The Spin Cycle: One Week of GOP-TV with Bill O’Reilly
In case you didn’t know it, the country is at war. And I don’t mean in Iraq or Afghanistan, but right here in America, The U.S. of A. On one side are the secular-progressives (s-p's), those who do not recognize the nobility of America and disdain the role that religion plays in American society. They are the same people that advocate social reforms that mimic the social programs heralded in France and Holland. Their opponents are the traditionalists, those who think America is noble and that the world is better for it. Their natural leader is Bill O’Reilly, the original culture warrior.
He is a native New Yorker who has made his tough “hold no bars” attitude a brand name for prime-time TV talk shows. O’Reilly’s abrasive tone and offensive vocabulary have made him a right-wing populist hero with soaring ratings and a bulging wallet. Though he may have you believe that once The O’Reilly Factor airs that you will enter the “no spin zone,” but you will soon feel dizzy because there is nothing but spin. But this is putting it mildly.
He dedicates most of his hour long program to promoting himself and the ethos of the Republican/Conservative lobby but dare not call it such because there is no spin
allowed on The Factor. Instead he masks the values of the right and re-labels them under his self-defined term—traditionalism. According to his new book Culture Warrior Traditionalists believe in the “basic tenets of Judeo-Christian philosophy and the competitive capitalism that the country was founded on.” He believes that America’s Founding Fathers realized that religion was a necessary defense against anarchy and crime, which is why they encouraged a society “under God.” He makes it seem as if the S-Ps are a totalitarian minority oppressing the traditionalist majority; because after all most Americans are traditionalists. But what does that mean?
After overcoming the painful task of reviewing his book, I noticed that there are no end notes, footnotes or references. It’s as if we are supposed to take his word on the validity and accuracy of his sources. And considering his reputation and that of the FNC one has to be curious. On The Factor he rarely cites his sources for statistics. But according to him, most Americans agree with O’Reilly’s traditionalist values and proves it by praising the high ratings, and FOXNews' number one status as the most watched cable news source.
It may seem that I am berating the point, but I feel that the combination of alarmist language and divisive ideology is problematic. He quotes statistics that support his views only and he never says from where. O’Reilly only quotes polls specifically if they come from his website daily poll question. It is true that he is not a journalist, he is a commentator but that doesn’t make him unaccountable to the tenets of responsibility and accuracy that should be the foundation of any member of the media community.
Touting himself as a “man of the people” who stands up against the onerous Goliath represented by large corporations, the wealthy, and the “liberal media” he is a TV personality that delivers news according to him; which basically means, if you want to know what really happened seek out other sources. As a warrior fighting the culture war which is most apparent in the media he aggressively outs his contemporaries and colleagues Rather, Jennings, and Cronkite as die hard secular-progressives (s-p’s). Citing these majors as S-Ps, he makes it clear that the majority of media is run and operated by S-P conspirators against the right. He identifies San Francisco as a bastion of S-Ps; the ACLU and people like George Soros and George Lakoff as the leaders of the S-P movement.
As a self-proclaimed media maverick that uses his daily evening program to promote his ideology, religion, political point of view, and lest we not forget his new book Culture Warrior, he gives himself way too much credit. For some one who has two masters degrees you would think that if he were to insist on insulting his guests he would refrain from calling them bigots. How many talk show hosts call their guests bigots? Or rather how many want to call their guests bigots, but don’t? I guess this is why he gets to consider himself a maverick. He has the combative interview style of Chris Mathews from MSNBC, but lacks the sharp wit. His guests seem exhausted and frustrated when they finish an interview because they probably feel like they just got punched in the stomach since he spent about seven minutes verbally assaulting them with his caustic verbiage and derogatory name-calling. No wonder he has high ratings. Watching the O’Reilly Factor is like watching WWF Raw but with out the fake plot lines and blood.
O’Reilly and his “fighting Irish” temper are indicative of the Fox News tone as a whole. Presenting itself as a media underdog fighting against the Goliath of the liberal media; fighting to present news that is “fair and balanced;” fighting its way to the top of the ratings, Fox News is a network at war. It’s almost as if, Fox News is playing to the “Go Get ‘em!” psyche that has plagued Americans since Manifest Destiny.
The FNC’s infamous reputation as GOP-TV is well-earned. The divisive nature and style of the reporting indicative of the Bush Administration and the Bush Doctrine; either you agree or not, either your with us or against us. Either you watch the Fox News Channel (FNC) because you want “fair and balanced” news or you’re watching the other networks that are promoting the liberal/left-wing conspiracy that has taken the media hostage.
Segment lead-ins are posed in the same way as well. The O’Reilly Factor is the worst culprit. Almost all of his segments lead in with a yes/no question. War on Religion? Democratic Shift? America, noble or not? School Overreaction? Terror Hype? Airport Anarchy? OJ despicable? Bad news? Foul Play? Double Standard? Factor Obsessed? Even when he asks his guests a question, they are usually in the yes/no form. Or the guest agrees or disagrees. This is how it is with Bill. It is black and white. Yes or no. You agree or disagree. Traditionalist or Secular-Progressive. Left or Not.
The problem with this line of questioning or posing of issues is that it precludes the perception of depth or multidimensionality. For example, regarding the recent vote by a school board council in San Francisco to ban the Junior ROTC he referred to it as the “Anti-Military City?” segment. First, O’Reilly detests San Francisco as a bastion of far-left radicalism. Furthermore, such posturing sets the tone and gives little room for difference in opinion. The impact of using the term “anti” and “military” is sensational. It is eye catching and intriguing. Or, in another segment that he did regarding the culture war going on between the S-Ps (secular-progressives) and the Traditionalists, the segment was titled, “Is America Noble?.” Even if guests wanted to answer beyond yes or no, Bill would insist that they answer in the yes or no form. There is no gray on the O’Reilly Factor. Only a fence, and either you’re on his side or you’re not.
In addition to using divisive questioning tactics, segments are given alarmist titles. For example, on a segment he did about airport security. It was titled Airport Rebellion? and Airport Anarchy? The words rebellion and anarchy are loaded. These are words used to describe political upheaval and social chaos. Long lines at check-in and crowded airports is not anarchy, its called Christmas and Thanksgiving. Commuters and travelers conveying their disappointment about the decline in airline customer service is not a rebellion. An airport rebellion would be travelers scaling the check-in counter to upgrade themselves to first class; or rushing the security check-in because they don’t want to take their shoes off or throw away their toothpaste. The use of such loaded language heightens the urgency and severity of matters to unnecessary levels. It is very effective marketing and keeps the viewers level of intrigue attentive.
Bill O’Reilly is a talk show host. He is not a journalist, but a commentator. The O’Reilly Factor is not a news source in the same way that maybe Anderson Cooper is. Viewers don’t, or shouldn’t watch The Factor to be abreast of world or domestic affairs. You watch The Factor for Bill, not the news content. Rather the appeal is to see Bill’s take on the news; his spin.
He even refrains from calling himself a Conservative, even though he clearly is, because doing so would “destroy the show’s premise of being TV’s ‘no-spin zone.’” Granted he does attack the left and the right, giving them both a fair punch, but his conservative ethics screams through his new self-titled identity as a traditionalist. But to prove that there aren’t republican undertones to the ideals of the traditionalists he considers Oprah a traditionalist as well.
The O’Reilly Factor is only suited for the Fox News Channel. Even though he berates the point about the liberal media conspiracy and argues that he is his own man, that Murdoch doesn’t own him, where else would Bill be but the Fox News Channel? Al Franken and movies like “Outfoxed” jokingly refer to the FNC as “GOP-TV.” With Roger Ailes and Rupert Murdoch at the helm, it’s a fair punch. Fairness and Accuracy in Media (FAIR) wrote an article in August 2001 referring to Ailes as the most biased man in news.
Ailes, a former political strategist for the Reagan and Bush (senior) administrations, built a reputation on his below-the belt name calling and clever way of coining terms that are catchy. According to an article in the Washington Post, when Ailes was a producer for Rush Limbaugh’s radio show he referred to President Clinton as a “hippie-President” and used terms like “liberal bigots.” Lee Atwater told a Time magazine reporter that Ailes worked at “two speeds—attack and destroy.” The terminology and combative interview style are pervasive throughout the FNC and The O’Reilly Factor; the network has Ailes’ personality written all over it. Even though, it is clear that the FNC is a top down organization with Ailes’ stamp on the news individuals like Brit Hume and Bill O’Reilly are what give the network its flare.
Even though the FNC has beaten out CNN in ratings and viewers they still consider themselves the media underdog because they see the majority of the media as having a left-wing slant. But as a left-leaning slanter I am perplexed as to how they arrived at this conclusion. First of all, it is empirically impossible to have a left-wing media outlet that is owned by a corporation. The two concepts are diametrically ideologically opposed. Most truly left-leaning media outlets are member supported or subsidized by the government, e.g. NPR and Air America. Secondly, media outlets run by corporations are concerned more about profits and shareholders not quality of news and accuracy in reporting. Third, how fair and balanced can a network be when Roger Ailes is the head honcho advocating an “attack and destroy” modus operandi with Brit Hume and O’Reilly as second in command. This is not bias, it is simple math. A man like Ailes that has a bias towards the left can not be fair and accurate. The very same man people praise and congratulate for his campaigning strategy for Reagan and Bush during the 1980s and early 90s. This is not a man who is intellectually capable of being unbiased and fair towards anything that isn’t right.
FAIR studied 19 weeks of Special Report with Brit Hume in 2001. According to the FAIR study 89% of the guests with party affiliations were Republicans. Out of the 92 guests attending Special Report, only eight were women and 6 were people of color, making 91-93% of guests White and or male. Out of the women and people of color on the show an overwhelming majority were either Republican or conservative. As for The O’Reilly Factor out of 37 guests total in one week 60% were White, 51% were White males, 32% White females. 37% of the guests were women, but from that 85 were White, 7% were black, and less than 2% were Asian or Latino. In addition, there was only one Black male guest. Similar to the statistics from Special Report, the majority of the women guests were center-right regardless of their race. Only two of the guests were academics; and one was a devout Catholic from Santa Clara State University in California. Eight guests were print journalists, radio talk show hosts, or fellow FNC employees like Geraldo Rivera. He had nearly 15 lawyers or legal experts on the show, this was mainly due to his coverage of the OJ Simpson interview. All of his guests were Americans.
During the week that I observed the show, there was no coverage of news about events occurring outside of the United States. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were discussed but not reported on. Concerns regarding Iran and Syria were also mentioned but only in regards to the terrorist threat. O’Reilly never spoke of news or issues in Africa, Asia, Latin America or Europe. The majority of the segments covered domestic news: Post-Election Analysis, Immigration, Sports Rage, the OJ Simpson interview on Fox, etc. On two shows, Thursday and Friday 50% of the segment was about the OJ Simpson interview.
The only relatively international issues related segment was the coverage of the Senate Committee Meeting with Sen. Clinton and Sen. McCain and Genereal Abizaid. The news covered was domestic. There were a few “soft” pieces. He covered the Britney Spears divorce in three different segments and analyzed the body language of Rumsfeld and the Clintons to determine what they were really thinking. There is no on-site reporting, the show is done entirely from the studio. Out of the 8 segments he does 4 of them are interviews, discussions, debates, harangues.
Regardless of whether or not you agree with Mr. O’Reilly, between the yelling or sheer aggravation you feel, it is therapeutic in some ironic way. During the one week that I was “forced” to watch The O’Reilly Factor I found myself feeling completely enraged for almost the entire hour. I felt a range of emotions that manifested in wanting to throw furniture, break glass, write hate letters, etc. What had incited such dramatic reactions was the way in which O’Reilly would deliver and present current events.
In true O’Reilly style, it is not enough to compartmentalize his personae or TV program with empirical analysis but to be on “his” level; even if it means you have to take the elevator down 30 floors. It doesn’t do Bill justice if I were to consider his treatment of guests inappropriate unless I too grab some mud and start slinging. There is something to say for his school-yard bully way of assaulting his guests that makes you resent the polite and professional manner of others like Anderson Cooper. The brash verbal beat down that he serves up to his guests and audience is almost like a blue collar battle cry against the white collar and proper networks like CNN; their greatest rival.
It is amazing to me that O’Reilly has not recognized his own hypocrisy and removed himself from public life for eternity in shame. Judging from the amount of despise so many have for him, he will probably take his growing fortune at more than $60 million a year and retire. For someone who heralds his program as straight talk and no spin, while working for a network who’s CEO was a Democratic party contract killer, and proudly admits that the traditional values well represented with analysts like Brit Hume and John Gibson are the reason for the ratings defeat of CNN; it is no wonder that people like Al Franken boil his blood. The Factor just doesn’t hold water. And just because you scrutinize the left and the right doesn’t mean you are fair; it means you are critical. O’Reilly argues with almost every body on his show, no matter their slant. The Factor is in the business of sensational news commentary. It is all about the entertainment value of watching Bill deliver his harangues at guests, not about the coverage of the issues.
As we have seen a decline in viewers of the traditional evening news shows The O’Reilly Factor has a place. As people increasingly get their news from the internet and less from traditional sources, The Factor presents an alternative to the traditional evening news formats pioneered by Cronkite and Murrows. After ten years of being on the air, the FNC has finally trumped the Turner card and become number one. Is the FNC the future of cable news? If it is, there is no hope. But, the fact of the matter is Americans are watching. Secondly, this is America, O’Reilly and the FNC have a rightful place. Even if it means that the news will never be the same again.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Saturday, October 28, 2006
sí, pero no...
The funny thing about Chavez is that he really hasn't done anything revolutionary or socialist. He is just as much of a capitalist and market economist as the US. And ironically, we are greater social democrats than he is. But this is mainly because we have an infrastructure and a historical precedence. His biggest mistake, which is not a crime, is his verbose nature and Anti-Bush rhetoric. Yes, he has ambitions to create a competitive alternative to American political and economic interest. But I have a feeling the Chavez moment may actually implode on itself. Let's consider a few things.
First of all, oil dependent economies are prone to instability--political and economic. It is unwise for him to "wield his oil sword" and grandstand. He is only doing himself and the Venezuelan people a disservice. If we were to implement the Morse theory or model the price of oil will drop eventually. Where will this leave Chavez? In a broke country and a financial crisis on his hands.
Which brings me to my second point. Arguably, while the economy has shown signs of growth and lower unemployment there are other indicators of a potential crisis. Rising housing costs, inflation, illegal immigrants, the mafia, the bloated informal economy, a very young population, and a real lack of tangible improvement.
He has stocked his bureacracy with his own cronies who have mimicked the behavior of the Punto Fijo leadership with traditional clientelismo.
I get the Chavez vision but he needs to do some serious housework.
Third, the military involvement in civilian affairs is also a bad move. It smells of typical egomanical Latin American military behavior.
Perhaps he's waiting for the elections to make further changes.
Perhaps not.
Only time will tell.
First of all, oil dependent economies are prone to instability--political and economic. It is unwise for him to "wield his oil sword" and grandstand. He is only doing himself and the Venezuelan people a disservice. If we were to implement the Morse theory or model the price of oil will drop eventually. Where will this leave Chavez? In a broke country and a financial crisis on his hands.
Which brings me to my second point. Arguably, while the economy has shown signs of growth and lower unemployment there are other indicators of a potential crisis. Rising housing costs, inflation, illegal immigrants, the mafia, the bloated informal economy, a very young population, and a real lack of tangible improvement.
He has stocked his bureacracy with his own cronies who have mimicked the behavior of the Punto Fijo leadership with traditional clientelismo.
I get the Chavez vision but he needs to do some serious housework.
Third, the military involvement in civilian affairs is also a bad move. It smells of typical egomanical Latin American military behavior.
Perhaps he's waiting for the elections to make further changes.
Perhaps not.
Only time will tell.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Hands Off
So Senator Foley has a drinking problem and a boy-toy fetish. Well, it could be worse. Right? He could've been caught red-handed by Hansen from Dateline or listed on Oprah's pedophile watchdog list.
While major print publications are publishing articles saying that the Democrats see this as an opportunity to turn the tables I can't help but feel like a forgone conclusion. With almost every little Rep./Conservative/White House related scandal the media has responded with talk about the OPPORTUNITY for the Dems to turn it around. They should've been turning it around since the man began to run for office in 2000!! Wake up! Revealing the sad story of some pedophile drunkard republican from south florida is not an opportunity to "turn it around." It is a time to exploit....run all the stories on republicans with drug and alcohol problems, marital problems, gambling problems, make up a problem. This is the time to REMIND the public of all the Republican scandals that have to do with every known man-made vice on the planet. It's called going negative.
It is not enough to demonize the GOP as a party of corporations and rich White dudes. Technically, people in this country still aspire to be the corporate rich dude, so making it seem uncool is silly. But being a rich and greedy corporate dude who is morally shallow with a drug, alcohol, and boy-toy problem now that is something to talk about. Especially for those God-fearing Bible Belt fanatics that have taken over the country. (Yes I did go there!)
Look, the GOP has gotta go down. I am not saying that the Dems are any better. God help them both. But for goodness sake these guys need to leave the White House. They have caused nothing but pain and suffering, death and devastion, and TERROR since they got here. They have made the rich richer and the poor poorer. They are a party of questionable morals and ethics. Which is why I think they are waiting to spring the capture of Bin Laden on the American public at just the right time to try and regain political capital when it is most needed.
I think the Bush Administration and Intelligence agencies know where Bin Laden is and are waiting for the appropriate moment put him on display like a runaway slave. But, if the American public is smart...(god help us)....we should realize that capturing him will do nothing. In fact it will only further inspire fundamentalist terrorism. Duh!
So to Senator Foley I say good luck drying out and keep your hands off!
While major print publications are publishing articles saying that the Democrats see this as an opportunity to turn the tables I can't help but feel like a forgone conclusion. With almost every little Rep./Conservative/White House related scandal the media has responded with talk about the OPPORTUNITY for the Dems to turn it around. They should've been turning it around since the man began to run for office in 2000!! Wake up! Revealing the sad story of some pedophile drunkard republican from south florida is not an opportunity to "turn it around." It is a time to exploit....run all the stories on republicans with drug and alcohol problems, marital problems, gambling problems, make up a problem. This is the time to REMIND the public of all the Republican scandals that have to do with every known man-made vice on the planet. It's called going negative.
It is not enough to demonize the GOP as a party of corporations and rich White dudes. Technically, people in this country still aspire to be the corporate rich dude, so making it seem uncool is silly. But being a rich and greedy corporate dude who is morally shallow with a drug, alcohol, and boy-toy problem now that is something to talk about. Especially for those God-fearing Bible Belt fanatics that have taken over the country. (Yes I did go there!)
Look, the GOP has gotta go down. I am not saying that the Dems are any better. God help them both. But for goodness sake these guys need to leave the White House. They have caused nothing but pain and suffering, death and devastion, and TERROR since they got here. They have made the rich richer and the poor poorer. They are a party of questionable morals and ethics. Which is why I think they are waiting to spring the capture of Bin Laden on the American public at just the right time to try and regain political capital when it is most needed.
I think the Bush Administration and Intelligence agencies know where Bin Laden is and are waiting for the appropriate moment put him on display like a runaway slave. But, if the American public is smart...(god help us)....we should realize that capturing him will do nothing. In fact it will only further inspire fundamentalist terrorism. Duh!
So to Senator Foley I say good luck drying out and keep your hands off!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
what did i say?
In a previous post "Calling the Kettle Black" I
compared Chavez to Oprah and then CNN comes out
with an article titled "Look out Oprah! Chavez
gives Chomsky a boost."
http://money.cnn.com/2006/09/21/news/funny/
chavez_chomsky/index.htm
Copycats!
compared Chavez to Oprah and then CNN comes out
with an article titled "Look out Oprah! Chavez
gives Chomsky a boost."
http://money.cnn.com/2006/09/21/news/funny/
chavez_chomsky/index.htm
Copycats!
Chavez at the United Nations General Assembly 61st session, Sept 20 Speech
Hola!
I have included the link to the UN Webcast of Chavez's speech at the GENERAL DEBATE (19-29 September 2006)Statements and Webcast. Make sure the date is for Sept 20. Scroll down to Venezuela.
http://www.un.org/webcast/ga/61/gastatement20.shtml
Also the below link should get you right to the live webcast.
Enjoy!
I have included the link to the UN Webcast of Chavez's speech at the GENERAL DEBATE (19-29 September 2006)Statements and Webcast. Make sure the date is for Sept 20. Scroll down to Venezuela.
http://www.un.org/webcast/ga/61/gastatement20.shtml
Also the below link should get you right to the live webcast.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Calling the Kettle Black
A star has been born. His name is Hugo Chavez. And he called Bush the devil. How do you like them apples?
I was speechless....and for those of you who know me well know that such a response speaks volumes. Chavez's face is on the main page of practically every major news source website for calling him the devil, EL DIABLO!!! Joder. But when Rumsfeld compared him to the likes of HITLER. HITLER!!!!!...the man responsible for the strategic and well-organized execution of over 12 million people and many others in battle....It barely got a peep in the media.
But Chavez made a splash at that podium today, didn't he?
What can I say? Is there anything to say.
Oh yes....I wanted to comment on the article in the Times regarding the reading practices of Castro and Chavez. I am sure the Bush Administration will use this article as proof of the liberal media conspiracy. What makes me sad is that Castro and Chavez have probably read more books than George W and his DWI-star twins combined. The only person in that family that could maybe rival the "literate" duo is Mrs. Bush. Now was Ms. Laura even invited? I think she would look smashing in a crisp red beret. Don't you?
Chavez could be to Latin American readership what the Oprah Bookclub is to the US. Maybe she should make a visit? You think she'd suffer a dip in ratings?
While I was reading the article I had to put my special Inspector Gadget goggles on to read between the lines. And as my professor taught me....ask yourself...what does this have to do with me. Well, the article mentions that a book by Libya's Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi. Do readers really care that Chavez reads? No. But they may be concerned about what he's reading.
Anyway, I am off to walk the streets with a little extra bounce in my step. Why? Because as much as I believe that calling Bush a devil was completely gratuitous I also get a kick out of it. A little chuckle. It's funny no?
I was speechless....and for those of you who know me well know that such a response speaks volumes. Chavez's face is on the main page of practically every major news source website for calling him the devil, EL DIABLO!!! Joder. But when Rumsfeld compared him to the likes of HITLER. HITLER!!!!!...the man responsible for the strategic and well-organized execution of over 12 million people and many others in battle....It barely got a peep in the media.
But Chavez made a splash at that podium today, didn't he?
What can I say? Is there anything to say.
Oh yes....I wanted to comment on the article in the Times regarding the reading practices of Castro and Chavez. I am sure the Bush Administration will use this article as proof of the liberal media conspiracy. What makes me sad is that Castro and Chavez have probably read more books than George W and his DWI-star twins combined. The only person in that family that could maybe rival the "literate" duo is Mrs. Bush. Now was Ms. Laura even invited? I think she would look smashing in a crisp red beret. Don't you?
Chavez could be to Latin American readership what the Oprah Bookclub is to the US. Maybe she should make a visit? You think she'd suffer a dip in ratings?
While I was reading the article I had to put my special Inspector Gadget goggles on to read between the lines. And as my professor taught me....ask yourself...what does this have to do with me. Well, the article mentions that a book by Libya's Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi. Do readers really care that Chavez reads? No. But they may be concerned about what he's reading.
Anyway, I am off to walk the streets with a little extra bounce in my step. Why? Because as much as I believe that calling Bush a devil was completely gratuitous I also get a kick out of it. A little chuckle. It's funny no?
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Hot Money-Democracy
American policy both domestic and foreign is a product of our "hot money democracy." Our government is a metaphor of our finanicial ethics. The four-year terms pressure Presidents and policymakers to perform and provide the American public with "results" to ensure re-election. Whether it be in regards to jobs, the economy, education, whatever. In the end, policy is not geared towards long-term objectives in the way it should be. Understand my point? Policy objectives reflect the sentiment of "instant gratification" that plagues the American way of life. Just like how our fast food nation diet has come back to bite us in the ass as the rates for obesity, diabetes, heart disease, etc climb our "hot money" diplomacy is doing the same. Can I get an Iraq? Can someone say Chavez? Or Iran? Hello!
In my opinion this creates a long narrative of what I call "bandaid policies." It fills the crack in the dam but doesn't prevent the flood.
The reason why this country runs like multinational corporation specializing in "hot money" is because we are run by the leaders and owners of multinational corporations that specialize in "hot money," making a quick buck, lots of quick bucks.
Since I am trying to do more than just complain I will make a prescription or two.
First of all I don't propose that we lengthen presidential terms. I think that Americans have fought too hard to maintain domestic political stability to set a precedent for out-with-the-old, in-with-the-new democracy. What I think we need is greater citizen participation!!! WE THE PEOPLE are responsible for all everything that is going on right now. ME, YOU, US! the american people are guilty of allowing our democracy to become a pathetic excuse of a government supposedly to be of and by the people. I am tired of blaming the media and corrupt politicians....WE, the people of america need to point the finger at ourselves. Hold OURSELVES accountable for our OWN actions...or lack there of.
Think what a powerful message it would create if American consumers refused to use their cars, go to work, and consume petroleum products in protest to finacing foreign oil and high prices at the pump and corrupt president's getting wealthier by the second....If THEY don't hear the protest chants maybe we should speak their language...the language of the bottom line. It is not enough to exercise your right to vote....this is a CAPITALIST country. Your dollar speaks VOLUMES over your vote. Get it!!! Think like your dollars spent at Mobile, Nike, American Express, etc were votes in a parallel government structure.
I am tired of being a victim of bad decision making.
I am tired of innocent people being victims of "hot money" American democracy.
I am tired of my tax dollars and consumer dollars going towards policies and politicians that have no genuine interest in the betterment of society.
I am tired of feeling like I am just one person with no power in a system created to EMPOWER the voice of one.
I am tired of the words on my money saying in "God we Trust" because the people that have most of the money are so far from God that they don't even know they are suffering......suffering because they have NO soul!!! No spirit!!
I am tired.
I am so tired.
So tired that I am retiring to the confines of the sierra madres of my mind. The last refuge in this world sans satellites and ears everywhere.
In the sierra madres of my mind I will struggle and fight.
And this time the revolution will be televised.....even if i have to do it budget on "You tube" and put it on my myspace.com page.
Can you dig it!?
In my opinion this creates a long narrative of what I call "bandaid policies." It fills the crack in the dam but doesn't prevent the flood.
The reason why this country runs like multinational corporation specializing in "hot money" is because we are run by the leaders and owners of multinational corporations that specialize in "hot money," making a quick buck, lots of quick bucks.
Since I am trying to do more than just complain I will make a prescription or two.
First of all I don't propose that we lengthen presidential terms. I think that Americans have fought too hard to maintain domestic political stability to set a precedent for out-with-the-old, in-with-the-new democracy. What I think we need is greater citizen participation!!! WE THE PEOPLE are responsible for all everything that is going on right now. ME, YOU, US! the american people are guilty of allowing our democracy to become a pathetic excuse of a government supposedly to be of and by the people. I am tired of blaming the media and corrupt politicians....WE, the people of america need to point the finger at ourselves. Hold OURSELVES accountable for our OWN actions...or lack there of.
Think what a powerful message it would create if American consumers refused to use their cars, go to work, and consume petroleum products in protest to finacing foreign oil and high prices at the pump and corrupt president's getting wealthier by the second....If THEY don't hear the protest chants maybe we should speak their language...the language of the bottom line. It is not enough to exercise your right to vote....this is a CAPITALIST country. Your dollar speaks VOLUMES over your vote. Get it!!! Think like your dollars spent at Mobile, Nike, American Express, etc were votes in a parallel government structure.
I am tired of being a victim of bad decision making.
I am tired of innocent people being victims of "hot money" American democracy.
I am tired of my tax dollars and consumer dollars going towards policies and politicians that have no genuine interest in the betterment of society.
I am tired of feeling like I am just one person with no power in a system created to EMPOWER the voice of one.
I am tired of the words on my money saying in "God we Trust" because the people that have most of the money are so far from God that they don't even know they are suffering......suffering because they have NO soul!!! No spirit!!
I am tired.
I am so tired.
So tired that I am retiring to the confines of the sierra madres of my mind. The last refuge in this world sans satellites and ears everywhere.
In the sierra madres of my mind I will struggle and fight.
And this time the revolution will be televised.....even if i have to do it budget on "You tube" and put it on my myspace.com page.
Can you dig it!?
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
100% Venezuela
Venezuelan Film Festival @ NYU
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
The Albert Schweitzer Chair in the Humanities
September 21-24
NYU’s King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center, Department of Spanish and Portuguese
and Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies present
www.nyu.edu/kjc/100_venezuela/program.pdf
53 Washington Sq. South
212-998-3650
www.nyu.edu/kjc
100% VENEZUELA will show 14 films from the South American country. Presented by King Juan Carlos Center and the Department of Spanish and Portuguese of New York University, the Festival focuses on the violence that has characterized Venezuelan cinema through its history, exhibiting classic films from the 80´s and 90´s, and the most recent productions of Venezuelan filmography. Solveig Hoogesteijn and Alfredo Anzola, among other important Venezuelan filmmakers, will attend the screenings and participate in a symposium. Curated by Javier Guerrero, NYU Department of Spanish and Portuguese.With the collaboration of Cinema Tropical (www.cinematropical.com)
Thursday, September 21 (4:15 p.m.)
- 4:15 p.m.: PANDEMONIUM, HELL'S CAPITAL (1998, 97')
- 6:15 p.m.: I'M A CRIMINAL / SOY UN CRIMINAL (1976, 112')
Friday, September 22
- 2:00 p.m.: AMOR EN CONCRETO / LOVE IN CONCRETE (2003, 102')
- 4:00 p.m.: SANGRADOR/ BLEEDER (2000,89')
- 6:15 p.m.: MANUELA SÁENZ (2000, 97')
- 8:15 p.m.: SE SOLICITA MUCHACHA DE BUENA PRESENCIA Y MOTORIZADO CON MOTO PROPIA (1997, 90')
Saturday, September 23 (11:00 p.m.)
The following filmmakers will be present: Solveig Hoogesteijn, Diego Risquez, Leonardo Henriquez and Alfredo Anzola.
Saturday, September 23
- 2:00 p.m.: THE WEDDING / LA BODA (1982, 110')
- 4:15 p.m.: 3 NIGHTS / 3 NOCHES (2001, 105')
- 6:15 p.m.: TENDER IS THE NIGHT / TIERNA ES LA NOCHE (1990, 90')
- 8:15 p.m.: SANTERA (1997, 97')
Sunday, September 24
- 2:00 p.m.: JERICÓ (1990, 90')
- 4:15 p.m.: PUNTO Y RAYA (2004, 105')
- 6:15 p.m.: DE CÓMO ANITA CAMACHO QUISO LEVANTARSE A MARINO MÉNDEZ (1986, 90')
- 8:15 p.m.: MAROA (2006, 102')
www.nyu.edu/kjc/100_venezuela/program.pdf
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
The Albert Schweitzer Chair in the Humanities
September 21-24
NYU’s King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center, Department of Spanish and Portuguese
and Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies present
www.nyu.edu/kjc/100_venezuela/program.pdf
53 Washington Sq. South
212-998-3650
www.nyu.edu/kjc
100% VENEZUELA will show 14 films from the South American country. Presented by King Juan Carlos Center and the Department of Spanish and Portuguese of New York University, the Festival focuses on the violence that has characterized Venezuelan cinema through its history, exhibiting classic films from the 80´s and 90´s, and the most recent productions of Venezuelan filmography. Solveig Hoogesteijn and Alfredo Anzola, among other important Venezuelan filmmakers, will attend the screenings and participate in a symposium. Curated by Javier Guerrero, NYU Department of Spanish and Portuguese.With the collaboration of Cinema Tropical (www.cinematropical.com)
Thursday, September 21 (4:15 p.m.)
- 4:15 p.m.: PANDEMONIUM, HELL'S CAPITAL (1998, 97')
- 6:15 p.m.: I'M A CRIMINAL / SOY UN CRIMINAL (1976, 112')
Friday, September 22
- 2:00 p.m.: AMOR EN CONCRETO / LOVE IN CONCRETE (2003, 102')
- 4:00 p.m.: SANGRADOR/ BLEEDER (2000,89')
- 6:15 p.m.: MANUELA SÁENZ (2000, 97')
- 8:15 p.m.: SE SOLICITA MUCHACHA DE BUENA PRESENCIA Y MOTORIZADO CON MOTO PROPIA (1997, 90')
Saturday, September 23 (11:00 p.m.)
The following filmmakers will be present: Solveig Hoogesteijn, Diego Risquez, Leonardo Henriquez and Alfredo Anzola.
Saturday, September 23
- 2:00 p.m.: THE WEDDING / LA BODA (1982, 110')
- 4:15 p.m.: 3 NIGHTS / 3 NOCHES (2001, 105')
- 6:15 p.m.: TENDER IS THE NIGHT / TIERNA ES LA NOCHE (1990, 90')
- 8:15 p.m.: SANTERA (1997, 97')
Sunday, September 24
- 2:00 p.m.: JERICÓ (1990, 90')
- 4:15 p.m.: PUNTO Y RAYA (2004, 105')
- 6:15 p.m.: DE CÓMO ANITA CAMACHO QUISO LEVANTARSE A MARINO MÉNDEZ (1986, 90')
- 8:15 p.m.: MAROA (2006, 102')
www.nyu.edu/kjc/100_venezuela/program.pdf
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Let the Games Begin
If some of you read the NY Times this weekend (Sunday, September 10) you may have caught the article on PAGE 3! of the A section on the local games played in Venezuela.
Now, if you didn't read the article here is a brief summary. Coleo is a local game played in Barinas, Chavez's home state. The object of the game is to see how many times competitors, riding horses, can trip the bulls while pulling their tails. Granted, I think it is assinine, but I think the same way about most competetive sports in America and the world abroad. The article comes off as making the locals, and all those Venezuelans who engage in this game seem like a bunch of backwards illiterate hicks with no sense of decency. Now, bullfighting, which is still practiced in SPAIN to this very day as it is in Venezuela, Mexico, and Peru is as "brutal" and "inhumane" a spectator sport as Coleo. Punto. But because it is Venezuela, the current political climate warrants publishing anything in the media to demonize anything Chavez. This article on Coleo has become a psuedo- representation of what the media wants to portray about Venezuela.
I mean really....Is the NYTimes serious? In all the madness going on in this world---Sudan, Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Israel, Somalia, Niger, Chad, Sri Lanka---an article about some bull-teasing country game in one of the most remote regions of Venezuela garners the right to PAGE 3!! (G-d Help US) of the New York Times A section Page 3 on Sunday, September 10. Especially since it was followed by two HUGE ads and then some chiquito articles on Iraq and Iran. Why else would they publish such an article and give it such significant placement?
If you ask yourself the question: What about this makes it newsworthy to the American public? it seems a bit silly to write an article about Coleo. But, since the fundamental premise to presenting international news to the American public is to answer the question: What does this have to do with me? Then it makes sense. Right? Right....but in a sinous kind of way.
Why are Americans concerned at all about Venezuela and Chavez? Besides his anti-American rhetoric and diplomatic ties with our sworn enemies. THE OIL!!!! The black gold....Petroleo!!! Por dios! Problems or concerns regarding Venezuela makes the price of oil go up which upsets the American consumer. This is why we care about Venezuela. At least for the most basic of reasons. Chavez+Oil= Rising Prices at the Pump. At least that's the formula the media and politicians have been using. (In actuality the price of oil doesn't need to be anywhere near what it is. But that's for another blog.)
So, printing an article about some "brutal" sport in some country Venezuelan town helps perpetuate a negative image of Venezuela further bolstering opposition towards his leadership in the States.
Now, why would the NYTimes publish an article on Coleo on page 3 of section A on a Sunday? Duh....because it's newsworthy.
Now, if you didn't read the article here is a brief summary. Coleo is a local game played in Barinas, Chavez's home state. The object of the game is to see how many times competitors, riding horses, can trip the bulls while pulling their tails. Granted, I think it is assinine, but I think the same way about most competetive sports in America and the world abroad. The article comes off as making the locals, and all those Venezuelans who engage in this game seem like a bunch of backwards illiterate hicks with no sense of decency. Now, bullfighting, which is still practiced in SPAIN to this very day as it is in Venezuela, Mexico, and Peru is as "brutal" and "inhumane" a spectator sport as Coleo. Punto. But because it is Venezuela, the current political climate warrants publishing anything in the media to demonize anything Chavez. This article on Coleo has become a psuedo- representation of what the media wants to portray about Venezuela.
I mean really....Is the NYTimes serious? In all the madness going on in this world---Sudan, Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Israel, Somalia, Niger, Chad, Sri Lanka---an article about some bull-teasing country game in one of the most remote regions of Venezuela garners the right to PAGE 3!! (G-d Help US) of the New York Times A section Page 3 on Sunday, September 10. Especially since it was followed by two HUGE ads and then some chiquito articles on Iraq and Iran. Why else would they publish such an article and give it such significant placement?
If you ask yourself the question: What about this makes it newsworthy to the American public? it seems a bit silly to write an article about Coleo. But, since the fundamental premise to presenting international news to the American public is to answer the question: What does this have to do with me? Then it makes sense. Right? Right....but in a sinous kind of way.
Why are Americans concerned at all about Venezuela and Chavez? Besides his anti-American rhetoric and diplomatic ties with our sworn enemies. THE OIL!!!! The black gold....Petroleo!!! Por dios! Problems or concerns regarding Venezuela makes the price of oil go up which upsets the American consumer. This is why we care about Venezuela. At least for the most basic of reasons. Chavez+Oil= Rising Prices at the Pump. At least that's the formula the media and politicians have been using. (In actuality the price of oil doesn't need to be anywhere near what it is. But that's for another blog.)
So, printing an article about some "brutal" sport in some country Venezuelan town helps perpetuate a negative image of Venezuela further bolstering opposition towards his leadership in the States.
Now, why would the NYTimes publish an article on Coleo on page 3 of section A on a Sunday? Duh....because it's newsworthy.
ann coulter gives blondes a bad name
A bit of psychology before I go into my rant on Ann Coulter......
As a child I used to pray for blong hair and blue eyes. I begged my mother to take me to the hair salon to dye my hair and the optometrist to get blue contacts. Why? Because I thought that if i looked that way the teacher would pay more attention to me, take me more seriously, that i would be popular and get all the boys, but worst was that I thought it was the epitome of beautiful.
So, since then my issues with blondes was sewn. I guess regardless of whatever self-love I have for myself there is a residue of self-hate.
Which is why......Ann Coulter is probably the worst thing to happen to blondes since Jessica Simpson and why the mere sound of her voice makes my blood boil. She is a manipulative republican mannequin that couldn't produce a creative or independent thought even if they injected during her Botox treatment. In addition, it is so obvious that Coulter is a puppet for a media freak show. She loves to attack liberals for their allegedly self-righteous critics. Meanwhile here she is, PROJECTING. There's some psychology for ya! You Ann, are the self-righteous hypocrite. For a woman, who claims to be religious and well read and intelligent, but uses her physical attributes for the right book deal is a prostitute and a hypocrite. She is a tall, thin, attractive blonde chic who is "tough," "sassy," "sexy" and easy to sell. Which is why the mere thought of her name ignites a wave of childhood memories. It infuriates me that the only reason why she is even getting any play what-so-evah is because she is a a tall, thin, attractive blonde chic who is "tough," "sassy," "sexy" and easy to sell.
But this is what the Democratic party doesn't get. And this is why they all get to wear a big "L" on their foreheads for LOSER!!!
See, the Republicans get it! They get it!!! Another example of how WELL they get it....Gov. Arnold Schwarzaneggar. Or Gov. Ronald Reagan.
Do you get my drift?
Seems like the Republicans have a much savier way of using celebrity than the Democratic party does.
The Donkey needs to find himself a poster child. This is AMERICA! Sex sells. Enough of the liberal morality. It is tired, it is boring, and most of all it's not sexy.
Wake up! The Clinton Era is O-vah! The democratic party needs to bring " the sexy back" like Justin says and get with the program. The Left used to be the cool people in the room. Now we're the soggy loosers that listen to wah-wah-wah music.
Look at what Pamela Anderson has done for PETA!!!
Get it!
Below, is a list of possible celebs for politics
1-P Diddy.....the man is a marketing genius. he could sell you a rusty muffler, make you feel like the hottest dude on the block, and next week have everybody wearing it as a chain
2-Paris Hilton.....easy puppet and easy to control.
3-Brangelina.....they could do some stuff with that Oval office desk you know no one else has even thought of. And their marriage protest--refusing to marry until same-sex marriage is legalized--beats out Yoko and John's bed protests.
That's it. My creativity is waning. But I am open for some more celeb-politician suggestions.
In the end, I feel sorry for her. Well not that sorry, she's laughing all the way to the bank. But sorry in that she's a pawn fool. She has no credibility what so ever. If she's such an intelligent woman, why would she let her elephant family make her look like such an ass......?
And here I am with all my hot talk and being typically Donkey party---all that talk and not a SINGLE credible prescription for change. Who's the ass now?
As a child I used to pray for blong hair and blue eyes. I begged my mother to take me to the hair salon to dye my hair and the optometrist to get blue contacts. Why? Because I thought that if i looked that way the teacher would pay more attention to me, take me more seriously, that i would be popular and get all the boys, but worst was that I thought it was the epitome of beautiful.
So, since then my issues with blondes was sewn. I guess regardless of whatever self-love I have for myself there is a residue of self-hate.
Which is why......Ann Coulter is probably the worst thing to happen to blondes since Jessica Simpson and why the mere sound of her voice makes my blood boil. She is a manipulative republican mannequin that couldn't produce a creative or independent thought even if they injected during her Botox treatment. In addition, it is so obvious that Coulter is a puppet for a media freak show. She loves to attack liberals for their allegedly self-righteous critics. Meanwhile here she is, PROJECTING. There's some psychology for ya! You Ann, are the self-righteous hypocrite. For a woman, who claims to be religious and well read and intelligent, but uses her physical attributes for the right book deal is a prostitute and a hypocrite. She is a tall, thin, attractive blonde chic who is "tough," "sassy," "sexy" and easy to sell. Which is why the mere thought of her name ignites a wave of childhood memories. It infuriates me that the only reason why she is even getting any play what-so-evah is because she is a a tall, thin, attractive blonde chic who is "tough," "sassy," "sexy" and easy to sell.
But this is what the Democratic party doesn't get. And this is why they all get to wear a big "L" on their foreheads for LOSER!!!
See, the Republicans get it! They get it!!! Another example of how WELL they get it....Gov. Arnold Schwarzaneggar. Or Gov. Ronald Reagan.
Do you get my drift?
Seems like the Republicans have a much savier way of using celebrity than the Democratic party does.
The Donkey needs to find himself a poster child. This is AMERICA! Sex sells. Enough of the liberal morality. It is tired, it is boring, and most of all it's not sexy.
Wake up! The Clinton Era is O-vah! The democratic party needs to bring " the sexy back" like Justin says and get with the program. The Left used to be the cool people in the room. Now we're the soggy loosers that listen to wah-wah-wah music.
Look at what Pamela Anderson has done for PETA!!!
Get it!
Below, is a list of possible celebs for politics
1-P Diddy.....the man is a marketing genius. he could sell you a rusty muffler, make you feel like the hottest dude on the block, and next week have everybody wearing it as a chain
2-Paris Hilton.....easy puppet and easy to control.
3-Brangelina.....they could do some stuff with that Oval office desk you know no one else has even thought of. And their marriage protest--refusing to marry until same-sex marriage is legalized--beats out Yoko and John's bed protests.
That's it. My creativity is waning. But I am open for some more celeb-politician suggestions.
In the end, I feel sorry for her. Well not that sorry, she's laughing all the way to the bank. But sorry in that she's a pawn fool. She has no credibility what so ever. If she's such an intelligent woman, why would she let her elephant family make her look like such an ass......?
And here I am with all my hot talk and being typically Donkey party---all that talk and not a SINGLE credible prescription for change. Who's the ass now?
Friday, September 08, 2006
in due time
One of the things that frustrates me most about the recent barrage of news about Chavez in the mainstream media is that almost all of what they are sayin now, I! have been saying for over three years. The other thing is that most of it is slanderous and demonizing. If the American media and public took a little time to be INFORMATIVE they would know what is REALLY going on Venezuela.
This is not rocket science. Just a little light reading. It still amazes me that in an age with such tremendous access to information that people are so MISINFORMED. How ironic. Anyone with access to a computer and reading proficiency in Spanish could have made fair and comprehensive assessments of Chavez's domestic and foreign policies. But why be accurate when you can be slanderous use words like threatening to help boost ratings. Our own government's research is little more comprehensive than news coverage on FOX!
The truth is, I find myself in a funny place. As an American I would be lying if I didn't admit that his strengthening diplomatic ties with Iran, Libya and Syria weren't a concern to me. His ambitions for a greater presence in global politics worries me less. But if I were to just examine his domestic policies I would be Chavista. Punto.
But can I?
I find myself being so critical of the right-wing policies of the Opposition and Bush adminstration that pratically gave birth to Chavez by trying obliterate the poor by starving them out and erasing them from the mirrors of society. Their policies created a void and Chavez filled it. But on the other hand, I am not so sure I like the idea of Chavez being so cuddly with Iran. Or Syria.
Inherently this is my problem with the left. LEFT IS NOT ALWAYS RIGHT!!! Okay, so Chavez wants to make friends with some of our enemies. Why? Just because. Because its the alternative to the status quo? Bolstering the support of a nation that sponsors terrorism is not the way to gain credibility. But because it speaks to the Anti-American sentiment of much in the Arab and Islamic world (or the world at large for that matter) it brings political capital.
His goals to create a sphere of influence and a greater presence for Venezuela in the international arena is what it is, but is he really aware of the implications? Increased insecurity and competition. Chavez's ambitions to increase his influence in Africa doesn't only challenge the US but China as well.
Chavez looks at China as a lucrative alternative to the US market for his oil. But is he willing to overlook the fact that they have been arming the genocide in Sudan? Will his grassroots Bolivarian revolution overlook the fact that a trading nation is CAPITALIZING on the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of people in order to achieve a political domestic objective? The same type of CAPITALISMO that he heralds as the root of the world's evils and moral problems. The same CAPITALISMO that funds his Bolivarian Revolution everytime the US buys Venezuelan petrol. Seems like the Bolivarian Revolution's foreign policy is more like the US than he thinks. Seems like he could be learning to turn the other cheek and making for allowances when there is an overall objective. (That's what we've done with Saudi Arabia. Right?)
During a conversation I had with a friend of mine in Venezuela, we concluded that Bush and Chavez are actually more alike than not. Personality wise that is. Both are heavy handed presidentialist leaders. Neither are afraid of using force in light of aggression. They are both average height with possible Napoleonic complexes. They both like to refer to foreign leaders with nicknames. For example, Chavez called Bush Mr. Danger. (Rumsfeld called Chavez Hitler) Saddam Hussein has been refered to as Evil, as part of the Axis of Evil. (Sounds like something from an Austin Powers flick.) Both use catchy words and phrases during their speeches to romanticize the content of what they say. Bush favorites are terror, freedom, and democracy. (The only words he can...never mind, they'll probably come to my house if I finish that sentence) Chavez's words are imperialism, capitalism, neo-liberalism and a mutual favorite democracy. Oddly enough Chavez is technically the more democratically elected President out of the two. Funny.
Anyway, I began this rant in response to the increased media coverage on Chavez and how LATE it is. So LATE! Three years plus late. The Financial Times, ironically enough, has relatively good articles on Venezuela. As does the BBC. If you read spanish check out Elpais.es or UltimasNoticicas.com.ve It's a local paper that is a bit more middle of the road.
This is not rocket science. Just a little light reading. It still amazes me that in an age with such tremendous access to information that people are so MISINFORMED. How ironic. Anyone with access to a computer and reading proficiency in Spanish could have made fair and comprehensive assessments of Chavez's domestic and foreign policies. But why be accurate when you can be slanderous use words like threatening to help boost ratings. Our own government's research is little more comprehensive than news coverage on FOX!
The truth is, I find myself in a funny place. As an American I would be lying if I didn't admit that his strengthening diplomatic ties with Iran, Libya and Syria weren't a concern to me. His ambitions for a greater presence in global politics worries me less. But if I were to just examine his domestic policies I would be Chavista. Punto.
But can I?
I find myself being so critical of the right-wing policies of the Opposition and Bush adminstration that pratically gave birth to Chavez by trying obliterate the poor by starving them out and erasing them from the mirrors of society. Their policies created a void and Chavez filled it. But on the other hand, I am not so sure I like the idea of Chavez being so cuddly with Iran. Or Syria.
Inherently this is my problem with the left. LEFT IS NOT ALWAYS RIGHT!!! Okay, so Chavez wants to make friends with some of our enemies. Why? Just because. Because its the alternative to the status quo? Bolstering the support of a nation that sponsors terrorism is not the way to gain credibility. But because it speaks to the Anti-American sentiment of much in the Arab and Islamic world (or the world at large for that matter) it brings political capital.
His goals to create a sphere of influence and a greater presence for Venezuela in the international arena is what it is, but is he really aware of the implications? Increased insecurity and competition. Chavez's ambitions to increase his influence in Africa doesn't only challenge the US but China as well.
Chavez looks at China as a lucrative alternative to the US market for his oil. But is he willing to overlook the fact that they have been arming the genocide in Sudan? Will his grassroots Bolivarian revolution overlook the fact that a trading nation is CAPITALIZING on the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of people in order to achieve a political domestic objective? The same type of CAPITALISMO that he heralds as the root of the world's evils and moral problems. The same CAPITALISMO that funds his Bolivarian Revolution everytime the US buys Venezuelan petrol. Seems like the Bolivarian Revolution's foreign policy is more like the US than he thinks. Seems like he could be learning to turn the other cheek and making for allowances when there is an overall objective. (That's what we've done with Saudi Arabia. Right?)
During a conversation I had with a friend of mine in Venezuela, we concluded that Bush and Chavez are actually more alike than not. Personality wise that is. Both are heavy handed presidentialist leaders. Neither are afraid of using force in light of aggression. They are both average height with possible Napoleonic complexes. They both like to refer to foreign leaders with nicknames. For example, Chavez called Bush Mr. Danger. (Rumsfeld called Chavez Hitler) Saddam Hussein has been refered to as Evil, as part of the Axis of Evil. (Sounds like something from an Austin Powers flick.) Both use catchy words and phrases during their speeches to romanticize the content of what they say. Bush favorites are terror, freedom, and democracy. (The only words he can...never mind, they'll probably come to my house if I finish that sentence) Chavez's words are imperialism, capitalism, neo-liberalism and a mutual favorite democracy. Oddly enough Chavez is technically the more democratically elected President out of the two. Funny.
Anyway, I began this rant in response to the increased media coverage on Chavez and how LATE it is. So LATE! Three years plus late. The Financial Times, ironically enough, has relatively good articles on Venezuela. As does the BBC. If you read spanish check out Elpais.es or UltimasNoticicas.com.ve It's a local paper that is a bit more middle of the road.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
George Bush's Resume
GEORGE W. BUSH
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20520
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
LAW ENFORCEMENT
I was arrested in Kennebunkport, Maine, in 1976 for driving under the
influence of alcohol.
I pled guilty, paid a fine, and had my driver's license suspended
for 30 days.
My Texas driving record has been "lost" and is not available.
MILITARY
I joined the Texas Air National Guard and went AWOL.
I refused to take a drug test or answer any questions about my drug
use. By joining the Texas Air National Guard, I was able to avoid
combat duty in Vietnam.
COLLEGE
I graduated from Yale University with a low C average. I was a
cheerleader.
PAST WORK EXPERIENCE
I ran for U.S. Congress and lost. I began my career in the oil
business in Midland, Texas, in 1975. I bought an oil company, but
couldn't find any oil in Texas. The company went bankrupt shortly after
I sold all my stock.
I bought the Texas Rangers baseball team in a sweetheart deal that
took land using taxpayer money. With the help of my father and our
friends in the oil industry, including Enron CEO Ken Lay, I was elected
governor of Texas.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS GOVERNOR OF TEXAS
I changed Texas pollution laws to favor power and oil companies, making
Texas the most polluted state in the Union.
During my tenure, Houston replaced Los Angeles as the most
smog-ridden city in America.
I cut taxes and bankrupted the Texas treasury to the tune of
billions in borrowed money.
I set the record for the most executions by any governor
in American history.
With the help of my brother, the governor of Florida,
and my father's appointments to the Supreme Court,
I became President after losing by over 500,000 votes.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS PRESIDENT
I am the first President in U.S. history to enter office with a
criminal record.
I invaded and occupied two countries at a continuing cost of over one
billion dollars per week.
I spent the U.S. surplus and effectively bankrupted the U.S.
Treasury.
I shattered the record for the largest annual deficit in U.S.
history.
I set an economic record for most private bankruptcies filed in any
12-month period.
I set the all-time record for most foreclosures in a 12-month
period.
I set the all-time record for the biggest drop in the history of the
U.S. stock market.
In my first year in office, over 2 million Americans lost their jobs
and that trend continues every month.
I'm proud that the members of my cabinet are the richest of any
administration in U.S. history. My "poorest millionaire," Condoleeza
Rice, had a Chevron oil tanker named after her.
I set the record for most campaign fund-raising trips by a U.S.
President. I am the all-time U.S. and world record-holder for receiving
the most corporate campaign donations.
My largest lifetime campaign contributor, and one of my best
friends, Kenneth Lay, presided over the largest corporate bankruptcy
fraud in U.S. History, Enron.
My political party used Enron private jets and corporate attorneys to
assure my success with the U.S. Supreme Court during my election
decision.
I have protected my friends at Enron and Halliburton against
investigation or prosecution.
More time and money was spent investigating the Monica Lewinsky
affair than has been spent investigating one of
the biggest corporate rip-offs in history.
I presided over the biggest energy crisis in U.S. history and refused
to intervene when corruption involving the oil industry was revealed.
I presided over the highest gasoline prices in U.S. history.
I changed the U.S.policy to allow convicted criminals to be awarded
government contracts.
I appointed more convicted criminals to administration than any
President in U.S. history.
I created the Ministry of Homeland Security, the largest bureaucracy
in the history of the United States government.
I've broken more international treaties than any President in U.S.
history.
I am the first President in U.S. history to have the United Nations
remove the U.S. from the Human Rights Commission.
I withdrew the U.S.from the World Court of Law.
I refused to allow inspectors access to U.S. "prisoners of war"
detainees and thereby have refused to abide by the Geneva Convention.
I am the first President in history to refuse United Nations election
inspectors (during the 2002 U.S. election).
I set the record for fewest numbers of press conferences of any
President since the advent of television.
I set the all-time record for most days on vacation in any one-year
period.
After taking off the entire month of August on vacation at the ranch,
I presided over the worst security failure in U.S. history on September
11, 2001.
I garnered the most sympathy for the U.S. after the September 11,
2001 attacks and less than a year later made the U.S. the most hated
country in the world, the largest failure of diplomacy in world history.
I have set the all-time record for most people worldwide to
simultaneously protest me in public venues (15 million people),
shattering the record for protests against any person in the history of
mankind.
I am the first President in U.S. history to order an unprovoked,
pre-emptive attack and the military occupation of a sovereign nation.
I did so against the will of the United Nations, the majority of
U.S.citizens, and the world community.
I have cut health care benefits for war veterans and support a cut
in duty benefits for active duty troops and their
families-in-wartime.
In my State of the Union Address, I lied about our reasons for
attacking Iraq and then blamed the lies on our British friends.
I am the first President in history to have a majority of Europeans
(71%) view my presidency as the biggest threat to world peace and
security.
I am supporting development of a nuclear "Tactical Bunker Buster," a
WMD. I have so far failed to fulfill my pledge to bring Osama Bin Laden
[sic] to justice.
RECORDS AND REFERENCES
All records of my tenure as governor of Texas are now in my father's
library, sealed and unavailable for public view.
All records of SEC investigations into my insider trading and my
bankrupt companies are sealed in secrecy and unavailable for public
view.
All records or minutes from meetings that I, or my Vice-President,
attended regarding public energy policy are sealed in secrecy and
unavailable for public review.
I am a member of the Republican Party.
PLEASE CONSIDER MY EXPERIENCE WHEN VOTING IN THE
2006 MIDTERM ELECTIONS.
PLEASE SEND THIS TO EVERY VOTER YOU KNOW.
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20520
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
LAW ENFORCEMENT
I was arrested in Kennebunkport, Maine, in 1976 for driving under the
influence of alcohol.
I pled guilty, paid a fine, and had my driver's license suspended
for 30 days.
My Texas driving record has been "lost" and is not available.
MILITARY
I joined the Texas Air National Guard and went AWOL.
I refused to take a drug test or answer any questions about my drug
use. By joining the Texas Air National Guard, I was able to avoid
combat duty in Vietnam.
COLLEGE
I graduated from Yale University with a low C average. I was a
cheerleader.
PAST WORK EXPERIENCE
I ran for U.S. Congress and lost. I began my career in the oil
business in Midland, Texas, in 1975. I bought an oil company, but
couldn't find any oil in Texas. The company went bankrupt shortly after
I sold all my stock.
I bought the Texas Rangers baseball team in a sweetheart deal that
took land using taxpayer money. With the help of my father and our
friends in the oil industry, including Enron CEO Ken Lay, I was elected
governor of Texas.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS GOVERNOR OF TEXAS
I changed Texas pollution laws to favor power and oil companies, making
Texas the most polluted state in the Union.
During my tenure, Houston replaced Los Angeles as the most
smog-ridden city in America.
I cut taxes and bankrupted the Texas treasury to the tune of
billions in borrowed money.
I set the record for the most executions by any governor
in American history.
With the help of my brother, the governor of Florida,
and my father's appointments to the Supreme Court,
I became President after losing by over 500,000 votes.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS PRESIDENT
I am the first President in U.S. history to enter office with a
criminal record.
I invaded and occupied two countries at a continuing cost of over one
billion dollars per week.
I spent the U.S. surplus and effectively bankrupted the U.S.
Treasury.
I shattered the record for the largest annual deficit in U.S.
history.
I set an economic record for most private bankruptcies filed in any
12-month period.
I set the all-time record for most foreclosures in a 12-month
period.
I set the all-time record for the biggest drop in the history of the
U.S. stock market.
In my first year in office, over 2 million Americans lost their jobs
and that trend continues every month.
I'm proud that the members of my cabinet are the richest of any
administration in U.S. history. My "poorest millionaire," Condoleeza
Rice, had a Chevron oil tanker named after her.
I set the record for most campaign fund-raising trips by a U.S.
President. I am the all-time U.S. and world record-holder for receiving
the most corporate campaign donations.
My largest lifetime campaign contributor, and one of my best
friends, Kenneth Lay, presided over the largest corporate bankruptcy
fraud in U.S. History, Enron.
My political party used Enron private jets and corporate attorneys to
assure my success with the U.S. Supreme Court during my election
decision.
I have protected my friends at Enron and Halliburton against
investigation or prosecution.
More time and money was spent investigating the Monica Lewinsky
affair than has been spent investigating one of
the biggest corporate rip-offs in history.
I presided over the biggest energy crisis in U.S. history and refused
to intervene when corruption involving the oil industry was revealed.
I presided over the highest gasoline prices in U.S. history.
I changed the U.S.policy to allow convicted criminals to be awarded
government contracts.
I appointed more convicted criminals to administration than any
President in U.S. history.
I created the Ministry of Homeland Security, the largest bureaucracy
in the history of the United States government.
I've broken more international treaties than any President in U.S.
history.
I am the first President in U.S. history to have the United Nations
remove the U.S. from the Human Rights Commission.
I withdrew the U.S.from the World Court of Law.
I refused to allow inspectors access to U.S. "prisoners of war"
detainees and thereby have refused to abide by the Geneva Convention.
I am the first President in history to refuse United Nations election
inspectors (during the 2002 U.S. election).
I set the record for fewest numbers of press conferences of any
President since the advent of television.
I set the all-time record for most days on vacation in any one-year
period.
After taking off the entire month of August on vacation at the ranch,
I presided over the worst security failure in U.S. history on September
11, 2001.
I garnered the most sympathy for the U.S. after the September 11,
2001 attacks and less than a year later made the U.S. the most hated
country in the world, the largest failure of diplomacy in world history.
I have set the all-time record for most people worldwide to
simultaneously protest me in public venues (15 million people),
shattering the record for protests against any person in the history of
mankind.
I am the first President in U.S. history to order an unprovoked,
pre-emptive attack and the military occupation of a sovereign nation.
I did so against the will of the United Nations, the majority of
U.S.citizens, and the world community.
I have cut health care benefits for war veterans and support a cut
in duty benefits for active duty troops and their
families-in-wartime.
In my State of the Union Address, I lied about our reasons for
attacking Iraq and then blamed the lies on our British friends.
I am the first President in history to have a majority of Europeans
(71%) view my presidency as the biggest threat to world peace and
security.
I am supporting development of a nuclear "Tactical Bunker Buster," a
WMD. I have so far failed to fulfill my pledge to bring Osama Bin Laden
[sic] to justice.
RECORDS AND REFERENCES
All records of my tenure as governor of Texas are now in my father's
library, sealed and unavailable for public view.
All records of SEC investigations into my insider trading and my
bankrupt companies are sealed in secrecy and unavailable for public
view.
All records or minutes from meetings that I, or my Vice-President,
attended regarding public energy policy are sealed in secrecy and
unavailable for public review.
I am a member of the Republican Party.
PLEASE CONSIDER MY EXPERIENCE WHEN VOTING IN THE
2006 MIDTERM ELECTIONS.
PLEASE SEND THIS TO EVERY VOTER YOU KNOW.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Breakfast of Champions
This is an email I sent out the last time I was in Caracas, October 2005.......with some additions....
Most people would be bothered having to begin their sunday confronted with a street protest. But being back in Caracas, it makes me feel right at home.
I promised my Mom I would stay from all things political. (Does she know who her child is?) Though in Caracas that means you would be living in a vacuum.
I left the hotel and walked up the street and voila! a protest by a group of citizens criticizing President Chavez. And as I was walking up the street I notice there were no cars. Now for those of you who know Plaza Francia/Altamira and Avenida Fransico Miranda (right by the metro) it is rare to not see any traffic. Then you hear the honking and the quarrels and insults. Soon, you arrive to realize that they have completely closed down the avenue. Finally, motorists just backed up the street and went around. The unifying factor amongst the protesters were skeletons or skulls. Icons of death. They argue that Chavez is killing the nation with corruption and bad policies.
Granted, for those of you on Chavez Watch like me, there is the good and the bad. Clearly his policies have included many social reforms, such as a literacy campaign and healthcare for the poor. These programs are organized under the titles of Missions. For example, Mision Milagros has been providing eye surgery to the blind or those suffering from vision problems to people all over Latin America and I maybe also the US. Mision Negra Hipolita is an aggressive social welfare program aimed at getting the homeless off the streets.
On the flip side, Chavez has yet to overcome his polarizing affect on the nation. There are black lists maintained by both sides of the political spectrum. To some degree the state of polarization has created a climate of intolerance. The Opposition maintains a list barring KNOWN chavistas from employment, as do the Chavistas. Should you criticize his policies in any way in a place of business you are branded. In fact, friends tell me that there is a database in which names are organized based on whether or not they support the President. So, should you seek employment, employers will refer to this database to determine whether or not you are Chavista. If you are not Chavista you could be denied employment. For example, I have met skilled people who can't get work because they may not be of either political camp and lack the contacts to capitalize on a little nepotism.
Considering this, it is important to recognize the context of this policy in the socio-historic framework of Venezuela. For centuries the White European oligarchy had complete control over domestic politics and the economy. Social mobility was virtually impossible. So, even though there wasn`t a database to determine your qualifications for employment in the past there was an instutionalized social code that did. Therefore, you could argue that this new policy is retribution for centuries of oppression and poverty. But does that make it right? Furthermore, is about right and wrong? These are some the questions I have been asking myself for a sometime and even more so while I am here.
Most people would be bothered having to begin their sunday confronted with a street protest. But being back in Caracas, it makes me feel right at home.
I promised my Mom I would stay from all things political. (Does she know who her child is?) Though in Caracas that means you would be living in a vacuum.
I left the hotel and walked up the street and voila! a protest by a group of citizens criticizing President Chavez. And as I was walking up the street I notice there were no cars. Now for those of you who know Plaza Francia/Altamira and Avenida Fransico Miranda (right by the metro) it is rare to not see any traffic. Then you hear the honking and the quarrels and insults. Soon, you arrive to realize that they have completely closed down the avenue. Finally, motorists just backed up the street and went around. The unifying factor amongst the protesters were skeletons or skulls. Icons of death. They argue that Chavez is killing the nation with corruption and bad policies.
Granted, for those of you on Chavez Watch like me, there is the good and the bad. Clearly his policies have included many social reforms, such as a literacy campaign and healthcare for the poor. These programs are organized under the titles of Missions. For example, Mision Milagros has been providing eye surgery to the blind or those suffering from vision problems to people all over Latin America and I maybe also the US. Mision Negra Hipolita is an aggressive social welfare program aimed at getting the homeless off the streets.
On the flip side, Chavez has yet to overcome his polarizing affect on the nation. There are black lists maintained by both sides of the political spectrum. To some degree the state of polarization has created a climate of intolerance. The Opposition maintains a list barring KNOWN chavistas from employment, as do the Chavistas. Should you criticize his policies in any way in a place of business you are branded. In fact, friends tell me that there is a database in which names are organized based on whether or not they support the President. So, should you seek employment, employers will refer to this database to determine whether or not you are Chavista. If you are not Chavista you could be denied employment. For example, I have met skilled people who can't get work because they may not be of either political camp and lack the contacts to capitalize on a little nepotism.
Considering this, it is important to recognize the context of this policy in the socio-historic framework of Venezuela. For centuries the White European oligarchy had complete control over domestic politics and the economy. Social mobility was virtually impossible. So, even though there wasn`t a database to determine your qualifications for employment in the past there was an instutionalized social code that did. Therefore, you could argue that this new policy is retribution for centuries of oppression and poverty. But does that make it right? Furthermore, is about right and wrong? These are some the questions I have been asking myself for a sometime and even more so while I am here.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
the reviews are in
Have any of you seen Sequestro Express? I think a few of you may have asked me if I had and recommended it because you knew of my interest in Venezuela. Well, I bought the bootleg for 1 and change and watched it.
Where shall I begin?
First of all, what a horrible portrayal of Venezuela. Secondly, what a crock. The director, was trying to be Quentin Tarantino meets Amorres Perros. Lord! Third, the movie was way to coincidental. Fourth, the kidnappings are way worse than depicted. Fifth, ( and i may get flack for this)....how can I put it? Let me preface what I am about to say with this, being kidnapped is not cool. No one has the right to terrorize anyone else because of their race, creed, interest, bla bla bla....If you are to consider the film in a vacuum as a movie that artistically interprets an increasing problem in Caracas than okay. But the fact of the matter is, WE don't live in a vacuum, nor do we live in the movies. Out of all the films that could've been made about the every life challenges and obstacles people have to put up with here between the corruption, the mafia, the crime, and poverty, the Director makes a film about a priveleged couple (one of which has good intentions to change the world) that has been victimized by poor Venezuelans that take life for granted and see their kidnappings as their own private populist revolution against the rich. Why can't a film be made about the poor and middle class who suffer from years of repression due to poor governance, corruption, the mafia, crime, and poverty. Why? Because it's not sexy enough.
Carla, the female protagonist is a sympathetic wealthy girl who volunteers in a free clinic and tries to use this as capital with her kidnappers. As if to say, I know that being rich in a country where 80% of the people are poor is a bit unfair but i VOLUNTEER in a FREE clinic so cut me some slack. Worse was when she comments that being rich isn't a crime...which it is not? But it is a bit hard to take when you are living in a city where more than half earn less than five bucks or so a day. Should the poor terrorize the rich because they are rich? No, clearly. But in a city where one out of every four people carries a gun and with a murder rate rivaling Rio's one has to take stock of what is going on.
Lately, the number of kindnappings has escalated and rumor is it will likely continue to do so. Members of the Mafia and Opposition leaders would like to see Chavez leave. No matter how, if you catch my drift. Increasing kidnappings and violence will discredit his "progressive" social programs and create doubt in the voter's conscience as they approach elections in December....at least that is what THEY are hoping will happen.
The more I open my eyes and ears to what is really going on here in Caracas the more I realize that Chavez has greater challenges to face than opposition domestically, from the US and abroad. One of his most fierce obstacles to achieving his Bolivarian dream will be La Mafia adentro/The Mafia inside. Second, he will have to revolutionize a human/social system that recognizes no formal or traditional means by which to conduct government. There is a culture of poverty and corruption so endemic that few have an interest in changing the status quo.
In my opinion, in order for Chavez to fully execute his goals he will have to become more authoritarian and presidentialist in order to effectively overcome domestic obstacles. He sees socialism in Venezuela's future but in order to do so he needs to educate the people and a generation of young people. For a country that allows a president only six years in office Chavez will need to work fast by capitalizing on high oil prices to generate revenue for his social programs while consolidating power to offset opposition.
Where shall I begin?
First of all, what a horrible portrayal of Venezuela. Secondly, what a crock. The director, was trying to be Quentin Tarantino meets Amorres Perros. Lord! Third, the movie was way to coincidental. Fourth, the kidnappings are way worse than depicted. Fifth, ( and i may get flack for this)....how can I put it? Let me preface what I am about to say with this, being kidnapped is not cool. No one has the right to terrorize anyone else because of their race, creed, interest, bla bla bla....If you are to consider the film in a vacuum as a movie that artistically interprets an increasing problem in Caracas than okay. But the fact of the matter is, WE don't live in a vacuum, nor do we live in the movies. Out of all the films that could've been made about the every life challenges and obstacles people have to put up with here between the corruption, the mafia, the crime, and poverty, the Director makes a film about a priveleged couple (one of which has good intentions to change the world) that has been victimized by poor Venezuelans that take life for granted and see their kidnappings as their own private populist revolution against the rich. Why can't a film be made about the poor and middle class who suffer from years of repression due to poor governance, corruption, the mafia, crime, and poverty. Why? Because it's not sexy enough.
Carla, the female protagonist is a sympathetic wealthy girl who volunteers in a free clinic and tries to use this as capital with her kidnappers. As if to say, I know that being rich in a country where 80% of the people are poor is a bit unfair but i VOLUNTEER in a FREE clinic so cut me some slack. Worse was when she comments that being rich isn't a crime...which it is not? But it is a bit hard to take when you are living in a city where more than half earn less than five bucks or so a day. Should the poor terrorize the rich because they are rich? No, clearly. But in a city where one out of every four people carries a gun and with a murder rate rivaling Rio's one has to take stock of what is going on.
Lately, the number of kindnappings has escalated and rumor is it will likely continue to do so. Members of the Mafia and Opposition leaders would like to see Chavez leave. No matter how, if you catch my drift. Increasing kidnappings and violence will discredit his "progressive" social programs and create doubt in the voter's conscience as they approach elections in December....at least that is what THEY are hoping will happen.
The more I open my eyes and ears to what is really going on here in Caracas the more I realize that Chavez has greater challenges to face than opposition domestically, from the US and abroad. One of his most fierce obstacles to achieving his Bolivarian dream will be La Mafia adentro/The Mafia inside. Second, he will have to revolutionize a human/social system that recognizes no formal or traditional means by which to conduct government. There is a culture of poverty and corruption so endemic that few have an interest in changing the status quo.
In my opinion, in order for Chavez to fully execute his goals he will have to become more authoritarian and presidentialist in order to effectively overcome domestic obstacles. He sees socialism in Venezuela's future but in order to do so he needs to educate the people and a generation of young people. For a country that allows a president only six years in office Chavez will need to work fast by capitalizing on high oil prices to generate revenue for his social programs while consolidating power to offset opposition.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
yoga natural pues
today my friend elena and i went to an EARLY yoga class in Parque del Este. Picture it......yoga in a park full of palm trees. we laid down are mats on the grass and proceeded with the class. there was nice breeze and it wasn't hot. While we were doing the head stand pose I could see the clouds passing through the spaces between my toes while the wind carried the sound of Norah Jones' voice. It was the way yoga should be done....outside, in the early morning, with a view of the majestic Avila mountain in front of me, and a light cooling breeze. It was a wonderful way to begin my Sunday....
Friday, June 23, 2006
A day at the Museum
Today I went to the Museo of Bellas Artes for an exhibition on the Ecuatorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamin. As a member of the Cubist movement many of his works share artistic interpretation with Picasso.
The images collapse the three dimensional space on canvas but use geometric shapes and color to convey depth and mood. One particular work that had a profound affect on me was titled, ¨Mujeres llorando/Women Crying.¨It´s a seven panel piece featuring seven women in various positions of grief. The dark grey background contrasts against the black shrouds surrounding the heads and hands of the women depicted. No other body parts are included in depicting the female form. The faces and hands are lined and stark white against the shrouds that cover them. The shrouds are assymtrical geometric figures that frame the women´s round and weathered hands and faces. The strong lines are employed to convey distinction, age, and division between spaces and colors, as well as to enhance the mood. The faces are solemn and still but they express profound grief and sorrow. The use of black and grey enhances the melancholy mood of each panel but the seven panels shown consecutively multiplies and intensifies the sentiment. The first thought that came to mind when I first saw these paintings were the images of Muslim women in Iraq or Palestine crying over the corpses of family members and children after a bombing or attack.
Some of the work in the exhibition reflect a somber perspective on international political issues. For example, another painting that caught my eye was called El Guerillero/The Guerilla. The head of El Guerillero/The Guerilla is suspended in the space of the canvas against a grey background marked with smudges and streaks from dirt, oil, spills, scrapes, graffitti, and pollution. His eyes are closed shut. Almost with force. His face, like the grey background that surrounds him is also marked but with dirt, blood, scars, new wounds, and bruises. Random but naturally placed is the color red to convey blood. The red paint is smudged and lays awkward on the canvas as if to let the blood flow as it may. There is anguish and great pain in his face. His head is suspended with no connection to a neck or body evoking a feeling of isolation, loneliness, and internal solitude. The painting of El Guerillero/The Guerilla encourages the viewer to feel sympathy or to empathize with the subject. Void of the political implications of what it means to be a guerillero Guayasamin doesn´t make him a hero. Instead he makes him human, softening the hard image we have all come to know. In humanizing him, he is almost reduced, stripped of the ultra-masculinity associated with a guerillero. He is not a stone killer nor a revolutionary hero but a man struggling to deal with his past battles, struggles and current state of existence.
Another highlight of my trip was learning about a Venezuelan artist, Lourdes Silva, who works in metals. The pieces are exquisite and distinct.
You can try and check out the museum at www.museodebellasartes.org
The images collapse the three dimensional space on canvas but use geometric shapes and color to convey depth and mood. One particular work that had a profound affect on me was titled, ¨Mujeres llorando/Women Crying.¨It´s a seven panel piece featuring seven women in various positions of grief. The dark grey background contrasts against the black shrouds surrounding the heads and hands of the women depicted. No other body parts are included in depicting the female form. The faces and hands are lined and stark white against the shrouds that cover them. The shrouds are assymtrical geometric figures that frame the women´s round and weathered hands and faces. The strong lines are employed to convey distinction, age, and division between spaces and colors, as well as to enhance the mood. The faces are solemn and still but they express profound grief and sorrow. The use of black and grey enhances the melancholy mood of each panel but the seven panels shown consecutively multiplies and intensifies the sentiment. The first thought that came to mind when I first saw these paintings were the images of Muslim women in Iraq or Palestine crying over the corpses of family members and children after a bombing or attack.
Some of the work in the exhibition reflect a somber perspective on international political issues. For example, another painting that caught my eye was called El Guerillero/The Guerilla. The head of El Guerillero/The Guerilla is suspended in the space of the canvas against a grey background marked with smudges and streaks from dirt, oil, spills, scrapes, graffitti, and pollution. His eyes are closed shut. Almost with force. His face, like the grey background that surrounds him is also marked but with dirt, blood, scars, new wounds, and bruises. Random but naturally placed is the color red to convey blood. The red paint is smudged and lays awkward on the canvas as if to let the blood flow as it may. There is anguish and great pain in his face. His head is suspended with no connection to a neck or body evoking a feeling of isolation, loneliness, and internal solitude. The painting of El Guerillero/The Guerilla encourages the viewer to feel sympathy or to empathize with the subject. Void of the political implications of what it means to be a guerillero Guayasamin doesn´t make him a hero. Instead he makes him human, softening the hard image we have all come to know. In humanizing him, he is almost reduced, stripped of the ultra-masculinity associated with a guerillero. He is not a stone killer nor a revolutionary hero but a man struggling to deal with his past battles, struggles and current state of existence.
Another highlight of my trip was learning about a Venezuelan artist, Lourdes Silva, who works in metals. The pieces are exquisite and distinct.
You can try and check out the museum at www.museodebellasartes.org
Have you heard
There is a video game out called Mercenaries 2: World in flames that implicates invading Venezuela.
Quote: Mercenaries 2: World in Flames™ is an explosive open-world action game set in a massive, highly reactive, war-torn world. A power-hungry tyrant messes with Venezuela's oil supply, sparking an invasion that turns the country into a warzone.
you can check out their website at http://www.mercs2.com/game.php
One of the press reviews is quoted as saying:
"The South American setting was instantly recognizable, and the lush jungle environments made for a spectacular place to cause mayhem."
– Gamespot Hands-On (E3 2006)
Are you kidding me? Is this propaganda or what?
Quote: Mercenaries 2: World in Flames™ is an explosive open-world action game set in a massive, highly reactive, war-torn world. A power-hungry tyrant messes with Venezuela's oil supply, sparking an invasion that turns the country into a warzone.
you can check out their website at http://www.mercs2.com/game.php
One of the press reviews is quoted as saying:
"The South American setting was instantly recognizable, and the lush jungle environments made for a spectacular place to cause mayhem."
– Gamespot Hands-On (E3 2006)
Are you kidding me? Is this propaganda or what?
I´m jealous
When President Bush goes abroad he is greeted with riots, protests, demonstrations of anger and hate, insults...blah, blah, blah
But Chavez, when he goes abroad (most of the time) there is relative calm or an overwhelming demonstration of affection, joy, pride, adoration, and support. People line the streets with flowers, carry banners of support, etc.
Last night he was in Panama visiting the national assembly. I am sure this may have been part of his effort garner greater support in the region with regards to the OAS and the UN. Anyway, in the middle of his speech the signal was cut off and the transmission ended.
Conspiracy theory #1: The Opposition cut the signal. (They have done it in the past...No seriously they have...and openly admitted it on national TV)
Conspiracy theory #2: The US cut the signal. (No need to explain why)
Concrete theory : It was a bad signal because they may not have the technology available to prevent such interruptions.
Aw hell if it can happen to CNN it can happen to Venezelona TV. JODER!!!
But Chavez, when he goes abroad (most of the time) there is relative calm or an overwhelming demonstration of affection, joy, pride, adoration, and support. People line the streets with flowers, carry banners of support, etc.
Last night he was in Panama visiting the national assembly. I am sure this may have been part of his effort garner greater support in the region with regards to the OAS and the UN. Anyway, in the middle of his speech the signal was cut off and the transmission ended.
Conspiracy theory #1: The Opposition cut the signal. (They have done it in the past...No seriously they have...and openly admitted it on national TV)
Conspiracy theory #2: The US cut the signal. (No need to explain why)
Concrete theory : It was a bad signal because they may not have the technology available to prevent such interruptions.
Aw hell if it can happen to CNN it can happen to Venezelona TV. JODER!!!
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Preparanse.....cuidado
Warning: Reading this blog may lead to the illegal seizure of your hardrives, wiretaps, and/or reviewing of your emails for being a free thinker and exercising your first ammendment rights.
Last night the spitfire Vanessa was awakened after watching a television program here in Caracas called La Hojilla...translation: The Blade or The Razor. (the better spanish speakers are welcome to correct me). Anyway it is named such because the host/commentator, Mario Silva, is known for his quick wit and sharp tongue. Last night was a doosey.
So, Mario Silva is a middle aged fat guy who looks a lot like my Uncle Harold. (for those of you wondering....that would be the white side of the family...lol) His show is aired on one of two government channels here in Caracas. Canal Ocho. La Hojilla is clearly a Chavista program. One of the best features of the program is his presentation of traditionally unseen footage of important political events in the history of Venezuela. Especially in the last three to four years. See, in Caracas most of the channels are owned and controlled by the wealthy minority who for decades controlled PdVSA and supported Neo-liberal policies that have left 80% of the population in poverty. These are the same wealthy brats that tried to take Chavez from power over three years ago. Most of whom have fled are in....can anyone guess......Miami!!! Anyway, naturally their perspective of the news is SLANTED. (I´m being gentle) And of course the Chavista channels are also slanted. Basically no one is innocent.The competition between the various newspapers and TV channels is merely an extension of the quasi-civil war between members of the Opposition and the Chavistas.
You get the picture? The opposition, the wealthy minority....aka spoiled brats...aka corrupt swindlers, want to see Chavez leave, drop dead, or just plain be gone because his ascension to power represents a revolutionary change in the political landscape of Venezuela. In April of 2003, an American sponsored coup d´etat organized by the Opposition tried to seize power and rid themselves of the ¨tyranny¨of President Chavez, a democratically elected leader (many times over since then via referendum.) On April 11, 2003 Opposition leaders, orchestrated a confrontation between the Opposition and Chavez supporters in front of the Presidential palace to provoke violence in order to justify taking Chavez out of power. Needless to say there was blood shed. Opposition hired snipers shot at Chavista marchers and several were killed or wounded. Later, military leaders from the Opposition seized power after threatening to bomb the palace if Chavez didn´t step down. He NEVER resigned but agreed to leave so as to save the lives of the people in the palace and millions of supporters outside. In the interim several Chavez supporters went underground to protect themselves from the Opposition witchunt.
In the meantime the Opposition assumed power and began to conduct business as if they were a democratically elected regime. During the brief one and a half day rule by Pedro Carmona (now hiding in Colombia) the Opposition basically sought to punish and emasculate members of Chavez´s government. There was a rumor, for which there was no basis, that some were hiding out in Cuban embassy. So the mayor of Baruta, a municipality of Caracas, one of its wealthiest, among other Opposition leaders led a mob of spoiled rich brats to the embassy. The mob outside destroyed almost all of the embassy´s vehicles, cut off the electricity and the water. Because this wasn´t enough the Mayor of Baruta (his family owns almost all of the movie theaters in Caracas) and his cronies invaded the embassy demanding that the Cuban ambassador turn over the Chavez government representatives ALLEGEDLY hiding out there. La Hojilla showed over an hour´s worth of footage showing the Cuban ambassodor sitting with the head of Police, the mayor of the municipality and three other Opposition leaders in the living room which had no light because they had cut off the electricity and no water to offer his ¨guests¨ because the mob outside had cut that as well. He spoke to the Opposition leaders with calm and resolution but clearly outlined several points of truth.
First of all, the invasion is against international law. Duh!! The embassy is technically on CUBAN property. The mob and the Opposition leaders have no right to invade, destroy Cuban property, cut off electricity or water supply to the house. Second of all, aside from the legal implications of such behavior, is a respect for humanity factor. How dare you leave a house with women and children inside with out water and electricity? How dare you leave them without food? (The mob had also prevented anyone from providing food to those in the embassy) How dare you allow a mob to assemble outside and terrorize them for NO REASON what-so-evah!!!
What needs to be understood about what is happening in Venezuela is the following:
The Opposition represent a very...and I mean very.... wealthy MINORITY in venezuela. They are the landowners, business owners, and media moguls of the nation. Past presidents have always come from this small elite group.Therefore, Chavez`s ascension to power is a PARADIGMATIC shift in the status quo system of politics in Venezuela. Their world as they knew it is OVAH, not over...OV-AH! Part of their problem as status quo stakeholders is their hardcore zero sum attitude. Alleviating poverty would mean that they would be less wealthy...NOT TRUE!!! But this is how they think. They are total lunatics.
Before some of you begin to wonder if I have gone completely RED not to worry. I am not 100% Chavista. I am Chavista in the sense that I understand the ANGUISH and DISGUST the underclasses have been feeling for decades and how Chavez represents the CHANGE that they want to materialize. For example,
1-Why should the oil wealth of the country only benefit a small elite if it can benefit everyone?
2-Why should Venezuela be subordinate to American aggression?
3-Why shouldn´t Venezuela be allowed to enforce a greater presence internationally?
4-Why do his policies have to be a direct threat to the US?
·He is well within his rights to arm himself and develop his military.
·It was the US who financed the April 11 coup
·It was America who houses many of the coup leaders and members of the Opposition
·It was America who imposed decades of neo-liberal policies and supported a corrupt wealthy elite that left 80% of the nation in poverty.
WHO IS THE AGGRESSOR?
5-Why shouldn´t Chavez allow Cuban doctors and professionals to help the poor? America never has.
6-Why shouldn´t Chavez offer affordable fuel to low income communities in the US? Bush didn´t.
7-Why can´t Chavez try to implement policies to overcome adverse affects of the resource curse and years of failed multilateral lending policies?
Granted is he a heavy handed presidentialist leader...? Yes. Is this cause for concern and close monitoring...? Yes. Is Chavez´s reference to President Bush as Mr.Danger a bit gratuitous...? Yes. But on the other hand Rumsfled...RUMSFELD of all people said he ruled Venezuela like Hitler. Good lord! In addition, we´re a nation financing an illegal and unneccessary war in IRAQ for god´s sake. Again, who is the aggressor here?
I will reveal some reflection at a later date. I look forward to your comments
Anyway I am signing off from Caracas....I´ve got a beach to go to and some other explicit things to do which i may share later...lol
´nuff said
l8r
vanessa
Last night the spitfire Vanessa was awakened after watching a television program here in Caracas called La Hojilla...translation: The Blade or The Razor. (the better spanish speakers are welcome to correct me). Anyway it is named such because the host/commentator, Mario Silva, is known for his quick wit and sharp tongue. Last night was a doosey.
So, Mario Silva is a middle aged fat guy who looks a lot like my Uncle Harold. (for those of you wondering....that would be the white side of the family...lol) His show is aired on one of two government channels here in Caracas. Canal Ocho. La Hojilla is clearly a Chavista program. One of the best features of the program is his presentation of traditionally unseen footage of important political events in the history of Venezuela. Especially in the last three to four years. See, in Caracas most of the channels are owned and controlled by the wealthy minority who for decades controlled PdVSA and supported Neo-liberal policies that have left 80% of the population in poverty. These are the same wealthy brats that tried to take Chavez from power over three years ago. Most of whom have fled are in....can anyone guess......Miami!!! Anyway, naturally their perspective of the news is SLANTED. (I´m being gentle) And of course the Chavista channels are also slanted. Basically no one is innocent.The competition between the various newspapers and TV channels is merely an extension of the quasi-civil war between members of the Opposition and the Chavistas.
You get the picture? The opposition, the wealthy minority....aka spoiled brats...aka corrupt swindlers, want to see Chavez leave, drop dead, or just plain be gone because his ascension to power represents a revolutionary change in the political landscape of Venezuela. In April of 2003, an American sponsored coup d´etat organized by the Opposition tried to seize power and rid themselves of the ¨tyranny¨of President Chavez, a democratically elected leader (many times over since then via referendum.) On April 11, 2003 Opposition leaders, orchestrated a confrontation between the Opposition and Chavez supporters in front of the Presidential palace to provoke violence in order to justify taking Chavez out of power. Needless to say there was blood shed. Opposition hired snipers shot at Chavista marchers and several were killed or wounded. Later, military leaders from the Opposition seized power after threatening to bomb the palace if Chavez didn´t step down. He NEVER resigned but agreed to leave so as to save the lives of the people in the palace and millions of supporters outside. In the interim several Chavez supporters went underground to protect themselves from the Opposition witchunt.
In the meantime the Opposition assumed power and began to conduct business as if they were a democratically elected regime. During the brief one and a half day rule by Pedro Carmona (now hiding in Colombia) the Opposition basically sought to punish and emasculate members of Chavez´s government. There was a rumor, for which there was no basis, that some were hiding out in Cuban embassy. So the mayor of Baruta, a municipality of Caracas, one of its wealthiest, among other Opposition leaders led a mob of spoiled rich brats to the embassy. The mob outside destroyed almost all of the embassy´s vehicles, cut off the electricity and the water. Because this wasn´t enough the Mayor of Baruta (his family owns almost all of the movie theaters in Caracas) and his cronies invaded the embassy demanding that the Cuban ambassador turn over the Chavez government representatives ALLEGEDLY hiding out there. La Hojilla showed over an hour´s worth of footage showing the Cuban ambassodor sitting with the head of Police, the mayor of the municipality and three other Opposition leaders in the living room which had no light because they had cut off the electricity and no water to offer his ¨guests¨ because the mob outside had cut that as well. He spoke to the Opposition leaders with calm and resolution but clearly outlined several points of truth.
First of all, the invasion is against international law. Duh!! The embassy is technically on CUBAN property. The mob and the Opposition leaders have no right to invade, destroy Cuban property, cut off electricity or water supply to the house. Second of all, aside from the legal implications of such behavior, is a respect for humanity factor. How dare you leave a house with women and children inside with out water and electricity? How dare you leave them without food? (The mob had also prevented anyone from providing food to those in the embassy) How dare you allow a mob to assemble outside and terrorize them for NO REASON what-so-evah!!!
The footage was incredible. At times one had to strain to hear the goup of people speaking because the mob outside was chanting, screaming..etc. The police did nothing because they too are members of the Opposition. The Opposition leadership sat in his leaving room as if they were invited guests. Such an invasion and a violation of human, civil, and international rights would ever have occured at any other embassy except for Cuba!Never have I seen such RAW footage. This footage has only been seen in bits and pieces by the biased Opposition controlled channels and Chavista government channels.
Regardless of the Ambassador´s clear and repeated explanation the Opposition leaders remained relentless. Which is what they are. God help them!What needs to be understood about what is happening in Venezuela is the following:
The Opposition represent a very...and I mean very.... wealthy MINORITY in venezuela. They are the landowners, business owners, and media moguls of the nation. Past presidents have always come from this small elite group.Therefore, Chavez`s ascension to power is a PARADIGMATIC shift in the status quo system of politics in Venezuela. Their world as they knew it is OVAH, not over...OV-AH! Part of their problem as status quo stakeholders is their hardcore zero sum attitude. Alleviating poverty would mean that they would be less wealthy...NOT TRUE!!! But this is how they think. They are total lunatics.
Have some of you seen the ¨Revolution Will not be Televised.¨Good lord!! Impressive! A must see. For those of you who have already seen it and i didn´t go when you wanted I am sorry and yes i am lame. But the sucker is you guys cuz i only paid like 2 BUCKS! But no hard feelings.
I know I may sound fanatic but come live here for a while and listen to the crap they sling and you too would begin to feel fed up. That is unless you are a supporter of the Opposition and seek the illegal and undemocratic seizure of Chavez from power. Crazy but entitled to your opinion.Before some of you begin to wonder if I have gone completely RED not to worry. I am not 100% Chavista. I am Chavista in the sense that I understand the ANGUISH and DISGUST the underclasses have been feeling for decades and how Chavez represents the CHANGE that they want to materialize. For example,
1-Why should the oil wealth of the country only benefit a small elite if it can benefit everyone?
2-Why should Venezuela be subordinate to American aggression?
3-Why shouldn´t Venezuela be allowed to enforce a greater presence internationally?
4-Why do his policies have to be a direct threat to the US?
·He is well within his rights to arm himself and develop his military.
·It was the US who financed the April 11 coup
·It was America who houses many of the coup leaders and members of the Opposition
·It was America who imposed decades of neo-liberal policies and supported a corrupt wealthy elite that left 80% of the nation in poverty.
WHO IS THE AGGRESSOR?
5-Why shouldn´t Chavez allow Cuban doctors and professionals to help the poor? America never has.
6-Why shouldn´t Chavez offer affordable fuel to low income communities in the US? Bush didn´t.
7-Why can´t Chavez try to implement policies to overcome adverse affects of the resource curse and years of failed multilateral lending policies?
Granted is he a heavy handed presidentialist leader...? Yes. Is this cause for concern and close monitoring...? Yes. Is Chavez´s reference to President Bush as Mr.Danger a bit gratuitous...? Yes. But on the other hand Rumsfled...RUMSFELD of all people said he ruled Venezuela like Hitler. Good lord! In addition, we´re a nation financing an illegal and unneccessary war in IRAQ for god´s sake. Again, who is the aggressor here?
I will reveal some reflection at a later date. I look forward to your comments
Anyway I am signing off from Caracas....I´ve got a beach to go to and some other explicit things to do which i may share later...lol
´nuff said
l8r
vanessa
Saturday, June 17, 2006
butterflies outside my door
i took a chance and decided to come to a little town famous for its corpus christi festival. san francisco de yare is a pueblo...translation little town.
after i landed i walked around wondering if there was a local hotel or if families rent out room to visitors. as i was talking to one of the vendors a young guy overheard my conversation and helped me out. Felix, has a girlfriend and two kids (maybe three)....anyway he was so kind. he hooked me up at a dope hotel down the road. i take a 2cent bus to a fro which takes five minutes.
anyway the festival began with the drums beating and the loal men dressed all in red with large devils masks. you know mama´s hips were shaking. after going to the church, dancing, praying and all that they proceed to go from place to place- schools, homes, etc with blessings. not to worry i have taken tons of photos. the costumes ar4e fantastic and the dancing is intoxicating. the children are the cutest especially the little boys. too cute.
anyway, i gotta go and continue with festivities. this is venezuela so this will probably go on till sunday. lord!!
but i knew that i had been rewarded in taking a chance in getting here is because while i was outside of the church a yellow butterfly kept fluttering around overhead. even more gratifying was the HUGE butterfly that has been chilling outside my hotel room.
what can i say...it was fate that i come to san francisco de yare for corpus christi
besitos
cuidate
vanessita
after i landed i walked around wondering if there was a local hotel or if families rent out room to visitors. as i was talking to one of the vendors a young guy overheard my conversation and helped me out. Felix, has a girlfriend and two kids (maybe three)....anyway he was so kind. he hooked me up at a dope hotel down the road. i take a 2cent bus to a fro which takes five minutes.
anyway the festival began with the drums beating and the loal men dressed all in red with large devils masks. you know mama´s hips were shaking. after going to the church, dancing, praying and all that they proceed to go from place to place- schools, homes, etc with blessings. not to worry i have taken tons of photos. the costumes ar4e fantastic and the dancing is intoxicating. the children are the cutest especially the little boys. too cute.
anyway, i gotta go and continue with festivities. this is venezuela so this will probably go on till sunday. lord!!
but i knew that i had been rewarded in taking a chance in getting here is because while i was outside of the church a yellow butterfly kept fluttering around overhead. even more gratifying was the HUGE butterfly that has been chilling outside my hotel room.
what can i say...it was fate that i come to san francisco de yare for corpus christi
besitos
cuidate
vanessita
Monday, June 12, 2006
to say the least
hey everyone!!!
i am back in caracas. i have finally found a place and have joined the rest of the universe and bought a cellphone. the number is....0412-572-9573. home phone is 011-58-212-951-0802. ok?
all is well here i am living in a house full of aging single italian women and a guy who works for PdVSA. he will be a tremendous asset if and when i write my thesis. i have been learning alot more about what is actually going here. there is both positive and negative to say as all governments are.
the owner of the house, Elvira is a character and a fabulous chic. Eddy her sister makes dried and preserved tomatoes and eggplant. they are divine. Also there is Silvana, a very positive and likable friend who comes to visit from the gran sabana, the dessert. Basically its a house with great personality and is never too quiet.
oh and how could i forget the pets. there are four cats, two dogs, two turtles, a pigeon, and two parrots that speak spanish.
my friends have commented on how pale i am. good lord!! so the beach will be on my list of things to do soon.
in the meantime i need like five keys to get into the house. better more than fewer.
i hope that you are all well.
more to come soon.
i am back in caracas. i have finally found a place and have joined the rest of the universe and bought a cellphone. the number is....0412-572-9573. home phone is 011-58-212-951-0802. ok?
all is well here i am living in a house full of aging single italian women and a guy who works for PdVSA. he will be a tremendous asset if and when i write my thesis. i have been learning alot more about what is actually going here. there is both positive and negative to say as all governments are.
the owner of the house, Elvira is a character and a fabulous chic. Eddy her sister makes dried and preserved tomatoes and eggplant. they are divine. Also there is Silvana, a very positive and likable friend who comes to visit from the gran sabana, the dessert. Basically its a house with great personality and is never too quiet.
oh and how could i forget the pets. there are four cats, two dogs, two turtles, a pigeon, and two parrots that speak spanish.
my friends have commented on how pale i am. good lord!! so the beach will be on my list of things to do soon.
in the meantime i need like five keys to get into the house. better more than fewer.
i hope that you are all well.
more to come soon.
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