This one slipped past me in my inbox. Please go out and support Cassandra and enjoy her shows!

---

Dear Friends

Dear friends- It always seems to me that the end of the year speeds up, as if to pack in everything it wanted to before the year is out, and this year is no exception. Despite the hectic-ness, I hope you’re enjoying the season and spending time with people you love. MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY HANNUKAH, HAPPY KWANZAA and Happy Winter Solstice to you and yours, and THANK YOU once again for being a part of my year. Here’s to a prosperous and fun 2008! IN THIS UPDATE: 1. New pix 2. CT television show re-airings 3. NYC January 5 New Year’s show 4. LifeBEAT Superstar Artists CD 5. Final charity downloading week 1. NEW PHOTOS are up for your viewing pleasure on my Myspace page, if you do that kinda thing: www.myspace.com/cassandrakubinski There are some from David Ippolito’s Year-End concert at the JCC Theatre in NYC last Monday, and some from the set of the rock/movie musical Clear Blue Tuesday! 2. “BETTER CT? and “JOY FOR THE KIDS? will be re-aired on Channel 3 WFSB in CT in case you missed them. “Joy for the Kids?, the charity concert at Hartford Stage, presented by Scot Haney (Channel 3 weatherman), will re-air on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (check your local listings for exact times). I chat and sing backup on a song with him towards the end of the show. My “Better Connecticut? episode, the daytime talk/entertainment show, will re-air next Friday, December 28 at 10 AM. You’ll see me playing a new holiday song I wrote, “Doesn’t Feel Like December? and singing “Stable Song? from the Christmas in CT CD. 3. Ring in 2008 with a WEEKEND SHOW in NYC- mark the calendar now and join us at one of my new favorite venues. Saturday, January 5, 9:30 PM Googie’s Lounge (154 Ludlow St, b/t Stanton and Rivington, above The Living Room) NO COVER, 1 drink min, Tip Jar passed for whatever you feel the music is worth Take the FV to 2nd Ave Kerry Politzer, jazz singer/songwriter, plays at 7:30 PM www.livingroomny.com 4. Excited to say that I’m on the 2007 LIFEBEAT HEARTS AND VOICES SUPERSTAR CD, a compilation of LifeBEAT’s favorite and best volunteer artists of the year. After playing in the AIDS hospitals of Manhattan all year, it’s quite an honor. “Racecar? is Track 2 on the CD. I remember at one of the AIDS houses, after I played that song, a resident jumped up, ran to the other room, came back with a hand drum, and asked if I could play it again- and then played along with me. To learn more about LifeBEAT, the Music Industry Fights AIDS, go to www.lifeBEAT.org Tell you what- the first TWO people who order a CD Bundle after reading this email will get the LifeBEAT Superstars CD FREE with your CD order (which, of course, is shipping-free!) Wow. I sound like a PBS infomercial. 5. FINALLY, there is about a week left to download any of my music at iTunes, EMusic, Rhapsody, etc and 25% of the download sales will go directly to LifeBEAT and heart disease prevention. So, please forward this along (or just this portion of the email) to anyone who likes music, and we can raise some good money for these worthy causes this holiday. Thank you so much to anyone who has done this already. With holiday love and thanks- Cassandra

www.CKubinski.com - Official Site www.myspace.com/CassandraKubinski www.Sonicbids.com/CassandraKubinski - EPK

Family news once again.

Christmas day happenings.

George W. Bush finally caves to public pressure and signs the energy bill.
Hell is freezing over as I write this...

Still accepting congratulatory messages for the upcoming 100th episode.

Call the listener line or email me an mp3 or wav file, and plug your show while you are at it!

Music Today:

"All at Once" by Podsafe Music Network group Blood Red Sun



Promo for Playing for Keeps, a podcast novel written and performed by Mur Lafferty



"Next Time Around" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-0329.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Visit me on Facebook

Follow me on twitter at twitter.com/bluejeansguy

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and stay powerful!

Happy Holidays!

A different interpretation of the Nativity Story.

Also, a sackful of podsafe music.

Music today:

"O Holy Night" by artist Allison Crowe

"One Day 2006" by Podsafe Music Network artist Gary

"Oh Little Town of Bethlehem" by Podsafe Music Network artist Ray Greene featuring Dow Brain

A series of instrumentals by Podsafe Music Network artist Doug Boldt (artist website unavailable):
-"O Come O Come Emmanuel with What Child is This"
-"Angels from the Realms of Glory"
-"Silent Night with It Came Upon the Midnight Clear"
-"Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming with Lully Lullay"
-"In the Bleak Midwinter"

"Just a Thought" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito (available for purchase at his website)

"If Every Day Were Christmas" by Podsafe Music Network group Podsafe for Peace

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my NEW voicemail at 206-984-0329.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my webpage at http://thatbluejeansguy.libsyn.com, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Add me as a friend on Facebook

Follow me on Twitter

Thanks for listening, Stay Powerful, and Happy Holidays!

Here is the latest on Cassandra Kubinski's concert schedule. If you are in the area, please support her by attending her shows. Thanks for your support!

---

Dear Friends

In this update: 1. David Ippolito's Year-End show in NYC 12/17 2. Holiday downloading continues 3. Weekend review 1. For those in the NYC area, and many around the world, DAVID IPPOLITO is better known as "That Guitar Man From Central Park", that guy who plays by the 72nd street boathouse every warm Saturday of the year, sometimes for up to 6 hours, usually to a grassy hill FILLED with people singing along- locals, tourists, and everyone in between. His YEAR-END CONCERT is next Monday, and I'll be singing with him on a variety of songs: doing backup and songs we wrote together. I've been in the audience for this show the past 2 years. Can't find a more fun, warm, entertaining holiday evening for 20 bucks anywhere. Come check it out! Monday, Dec. 17 7:30 PM The JCC Theatre (76th/Amsterdam) All ages, $20 Tix: 646-505-5708 Check www.thatguitarman.com for details and to contact David for seats. My next SOLO SHOW will be January 5, 2008, at Googie's Lounge at 9:30 PM (on a Saturday!) 2. Thanks to all who are downloading music for LifeBEAT and heart disease prevention this December! It really does make a difference. Want to help out? Go to iTunes, Rhapsody, E-Music, Snocap, or wherever you buy your downloads, look for Cassandra Kubinski, and download all the songs you like...and 25% of the proceeds will go to LifeBEAT, the Music Industry Fights AIDS, and local heart disease prevention centers. Already own "Hold the Sun" and "hiding underneath"? Forward this email to a friend at work, school, or home who might wanna check out some new music for a good cause. Thanks! 3. WEEKEND REVIEW. A huge THANK YOU to everyone who came out to support the Opera House Players concerts last weekend, braving the snow Friday night, especially. Together, we raised over $700 for the Opera House, and I am so grateful to you for helping to do that. Also had the chance to sing at Hartford Stage on Monday with Channel 3 WFSB's SCOT HANEY, in his annual Joy for the Kids concert. What a blast! We sang "Mystic Christmas Moon," from the great holiday CD CHRISTMAS IN CT II (www.brightlightsmusic.com- pick up your copy). Backstage, I hung out with UCONN basketball coach Geno Auriemma, 96.5 TIC radio personality Damon Scott, "Better CT"'s Kara Sundlun, and lots more GREAT people who donated their time to raise money for the Channel 3 Kids Camp. Also, don't forget : Buy Hold the Sun for only $13.99 Buy Both Hold the Sun AND Hiding Underneath for an amazing $19.99   Enjoy the Christmakwannukah season!

www.CKubinski.com - Official Site www.myspace.com/CassandraKubinski www.Sonicbids.com/CassandraKubinski - EPK

Just a quick post to let everyone know that my brother-in-law Dennis passed this evening, December 13, 2007.

He had been in a coma for about 24 hours as his body had begun to shut down.

Now, his spirit is released from his body and is free to move on to whatever is next

I know that he had requested a cremation and a funeral in his home town of Allen Park, MI, but time and date are not known at this time.

In the relatively short time I knew Dennis, he had always struck me as a gentle soul and a person who had a big heart. He loved unconditionally, and he accepted me from the start.

I do feel a great loss now that I will not be able to see him with my physical eyes, but I know that he will remain in my heart forever. I am blessed to have had the chance to know him.

Rest In Peace, Child of God. You were loved, you are loved, and you always will be loved. The world was better for your having lived in it.

Followup on the family news.

I don't heart Huckabee.

President Bush's answer to global warming: we'll trust you to do the right thing. Haven't we heard this before?

Voicemail from Chef Mark.

Christmas card from Strangers in Wonderland! View it here

Still accepting congratulatory messages for the upcoming 100th episode. Call the listener line or email me an mp3 or wav file, and plug your show while you are at it!

Music Today:



"To Be Free" by Podsafe Music Network artist Love Deficiency



"River to an Ocean" by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski Images courtesy of garrin.com.



"When the Rain Stops Falling" by Podsafe Music Network group Strangers in Wonderland

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-0329.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Visit me on Facebook

Follow me on twitter at twitter.com/bluejeansguy

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and stay powerful!

This is not exactly "breaking news" at this point, but it is still a horrible tragedy that has befallen several innocent people.

The details are still unfolding at this time, but it is believed that 24-year-old Matthew Murray is responsible for the deaths of four people at a missionary training center in Arvada, Colorado, and at the New Life Church in Colorado Springs. Tiffany Johnson, 26, and Philip Crouse, 24, both staff members at the Youth With a Mission missionary center in Arvada were shot dead by a gunman who fled the scene and had not been positively identified at the time of the shooting. Twelve hours later, Murray opened fire at the New Life Church in Colorado Springs, killing sisters Stephanie (18) and Rachel (16) Works and wounding as many as five others. A New Life parishioner serving as an armed security guard shot and killed Murray.

Almost as soon as the authorities knew of the second shooting at New Life Church they suspected Murray was the killer. Apparently, Murray had been thrown out of the Youth With a Mission program three years ago. Youth With a Mission has operated an office in the New Life facility for many years, which authorities feel explains the reason that the two facilities separated by 65 miles were the target of this gunman.

This tragedy comes practically on the heels of a scandal which rocked the New Life Church earlier this year. Senior pastor and founder Ted Haggard was forced to resign after confessing to receiving massages and crystal meth from a male prostitute. Haggard had also been president of the National Association of Evangelicals and an outspoken supporter of an attempt to amend the Colorado state constitution to define marriage as the union of one man and one woman. All of this was taken away in light of this revelation.

My heart goes out not only to the people of Arvada and Colorado Springs, but to all of us out there. We are all affected when something like this happens.

Be safe and blessings always,

David

The City of Philadelphia teaches the Boy Scouts a lesson in "You can't have your cake and eat it too."

President Bush was caught in another lie, but continues to lie. Hello? Impeachment?

Some family news that will likely impact the production schedule over the next few weeks.

Still accepting congratulatory messages for the upcoming 100th episode.
Call the listener line or email me an mp3 or wav file, and plug your show while you are at it!

Music Today:



"Secrets" by Podsafe Music Network artist Jenny Dalton



"Answers" by independent artist Garrin Benfield. Images courtesy of garrin.com and cdbaby.com.



"What Tomorrow Will Hold" by Podsafe Music Network artist Brian Mazzaferri



Promo for Playing for Keeps a podcast novel by Mur Lafferty

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-0329.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Visit me on Facebook

Follow me on twitter at twitter.com/bluejeansguy

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Keeping my promise to a talented Podsafe artist.
(Not to mention sweet, and a hottie. If I were anything but gay...but enough about me).

If you are anywhere near this venue, give her your suppport.

Dear Friends

In this update: 1. Opera House benefits Friday/Saturday 2. Holiday downloading continues 1. THIS WEEK on Friday and Saturday evening, the Opera House Players welcome us into their beautiful theatre, for our biggest shows of the year (and also our LAST shows of 2007). If you DON'T live in CT/Western MA but know someone who does, send them on over to support the Opera House's 2008 season, and, of course, catch a great show. It's official- my FULL BAND will be there to rock both nights, and I'm thrilled to catch my openers: COLUMBIA FIELDS (in rare acoustic form) on Friday night, and JAMES ADAMO on Saturday. Columbia Fields has been making waves in CT appearing on Channel 3's "Better CT" and getting played by Gary Craig on 96.5 TIC, and James Adamo just released his solo debut record, "Piece It Together" to a crowd of over 100 people in NY this Fall. Don't miss them! TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE IN ADVANCE if you want to GUARANTEE your seats, or you can certainly show up and buy tickets AT THE DOOR. No service charges, no taxes, no fees :-) Info: The Holiday Benefit Concerts for the Opera House Players Friday, Dec 7 and Saturday, Dec 8 8 pm The Broad Brook Opera House (107 Main Street, Broad Brook, CT 06016) (it's about a mile off Rte 91) All ages, family appropriate Tix $12 Proceeds benefit the Opera House Players (community theatre where i got my start) GUARANTEED SEATING tickets available now at www.CKubinski.com Tickets also available AT THE DOOR both nights Parking right at the theatre or across the street is free. CT band COLUMBIA FIELDS opens the Friday night show My guitarist and singer/songwriter JAMES ADAMO opens the Saturday night show 2. Thanks to all those who have already downloaded our music in support of AIDS and heart disease causes this season- this will continue all Dec, thru New Year's, so feel free to send this email onward to anyone who might like our music and want to support LifeBEAT or heart disease causes. We are downloadable on iTunes, Rhapsody, EMusic, Snocap, and pretty much everywhere else... Also, don't forget : Buy Hold the Sun for only $13.99 Buy Both Hold the Sun AND Hiding Underneath for an amazing $19.99   Happy December!

www.CKubinski.com - Official Site www.myspace.com/CassandraKubinski www.Sonicbids.com/CassandraKubinski - EPK

More and more I find myself drinking the Kool-Aid of the internet.
Now, I've gone and made myself a WeeMee. Good likeness or no? Gimme some comments.

My Thanksgiving and Black Friday adventures

Trent Lott says "Buh bye." I say "good riddance!"

Could a solution to global warming be as close as your refrigerator?

I was a guest on Archerradio's extra-long group show last week, and will be on the Friday show this week.

I was also a guest on Tristin's Jaded City podcast.

Still accepting congratulatory messages for the upcoming 100th episode. Call the listener line or email me an mp3 or wav file, and plug your show while you are at it!

Exciting development in the show this week, but you gotta listen to find out what!

Music Today:



"Home" by Podsafe Music Network group The National Pool



Promo for Playing for Keeps a podcast novel by Mur Lafferty

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-0329.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Visit me on Facebook

Follow me on twitter at twitter.com/bluejeansguy

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Setting aside the politics this week and just being thankful.

I list some of the things for which I am most grateful.

What is on your list?

I am working on my 100th episode. Wanna congratulate me and get your show plugged on mine? Send me an mp3 by email or call my listener line.

Celebrate our good together by downloading here.

Music Today:



"Thankful" by independent artist Heidi Bethune



Promo for Playing for Keeps a podcast novel by Mur Lafferty



"So, Thanks" by Podsafe Music Network artist Tom Smith

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-0329.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Visit me on Facebook

Follow me on twitter at twitter.com/bluejeansguy

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

I ran across this really, really cool story on the New York Times web site.

It seems that Harvard University linebacker Noah Van Niel shows signs of being more than just an NFL draft pick or a commentator on a sports channel. This guy can SING. The video linked here shows a typical locker room session that has a surprising ending.

No, not that kind of ending...

I remember a time not too long ago that a guy who dared to show off a singing talent like this would face risks ranging from being called the "f" word to outright violence. The fact that a girlfriend is mentioned in an article on Noah speaks to some underlying prejudices toward creative men, but at the same time, I applaud the Times for at least giving him a much-deserved spotlight.

Fortunately, Noah is only the recipient of some mild ribbing from his team mates and coach, and the sing-along toward the end is encouraging (not to mention, strangely hot).

Stories like this give me hope.

The Kentucky Republican Party's secret weapon is...PAT BOONE??????

New Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey is--to quote President Bush--following "in the footsteps of a fine manand a fine American, Al Gonzales." (Hopefully with a subpoena and a pair of handcuffs)

Actual New York Times headline: "U.S. Ponders War Message, and How Best to Deliver It" (Might I suggest telling the truth?)

I had another two guest appearances on Archerradio. Thanks again, Archerr!

Get your weekly fill of politics here

Music Today:



"Expecting Superman" by Podsafe Music Network artist Rich Reich



"No More Mr. Nice Guy" by Podsafe Music Network artist Alice Cooper



"No More Hate" by Podsafe Music Network group Givehead

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-0329.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Visit me on Facebook

Follow me on twitter at twitter.com/bluejeansguy

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Dear listeners:

After listening to my most recent appearances on Archerradio, I realized that I had promised to talk about a story connected with the Kentucky gubernatorial election. I did not come through on that promise, and I apologize. Please look for my upcoming episode this week, and the story will get priority treatment.

Thanks again for listening!

Your host,
David Byrd

Recap of election results

ENDA sans trans rights passes the U.S. House of Representatives

Pat Robertson endorses Rudy Giuliani. WTF????

I had another two guest appearances on Archerradio. Thanks again, Archerr!

Get your weekly fill of politics here

Music Today:



"Too Young" by Podsafe Music Network artist The Secret Handshake



"House of Dreams" by Podsafe Music Network group Strangers in Wonderland



"The Idiots Are Taking Over-TBJG Bay City Commissioner Meeting Mayhem Mashup Mix" by Podsafe Music Network group NOFX

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Follow me on twitter at twitter.com/bluejeansguy



Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Tribute to the late Robert Goulet.

Actress Natalie Portman, the Hope Ambassador for FINCA International has teamed up with iTunes and IODA to produce a benefit album that would support efforts to provide microcredit to underprivileged but ambitious female entrepeneurs in third-world countries.

I have issued a challenge to all of my listeners and readers: if you buy the album from iTunes by clicking through the link on my blog site, I will donate all commission from the sale to FINCA International. This is an open-ended offer, and no catches.

Listen in to get more details about this subject.

I had another guest appearance on Archerradio. Thanks again, Archerr!

I'm now on Twitter. Follow me at twitter.com/bluejeansguy

Music Today:
"Turnaroundturnmeon" by Sean Hayes

from "Big Change: Songs for FINCA"
(ioda)


"Amazing Grace" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Spak

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Just a quick "Happy Halloween" and "Happy Samhain" to all of my listeners and readers.

Be safe, and Blessed Be!

David

As if allowing Fox News correspondents to softball questions to a government official wasn't enough, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has taken it one step further and given a fake press conference.

According to this article in the New York Times, FEMA deputy director Harvey E. Johnson was asked friendly questions by FEMA staff members posing as news reporters. The fake reporters asked such hard-hitting questions as “Are you happy with FEMA’s response so far?? and, “What lessons learned from Katrina have been applied?? to which Johnson gave pat answers like “I’m very happy with FEMA’s response so far.? Is it me, or is this, a redux of "You're doing a heckuva job, Brownie?" Beyond the ethical questions of a government agency staging a fake press conference, there may be a legal issue here.

Television stations across the country have been caught airing what are called "video news releases," (VNRs) which are essentially commercials for a particular product or service, but which are designed to look like a legitimate interview. FCC regulations require that any paid programming or content like this be clearly labeled on the screen as such, and stations which do not follow this protocol face fines, and possibly further action for repeated violations. Now it seems the government is in the VNR business. But then again, they have been since at least 2001.

Nearly every press conference or public appearance by President Bush has involved complex sets with catchy slogans, video screens, PowerPoint presentations, and a carefully vetted crowd. Any protesters who fall through the cracks are drowned out by planted audience members who will begin chanting "USA! USA!" at a moment's notice. Apparently, that is not enough, though. FEMA has taken it a step further and eliminated those pesky reporters who may ask a question that demands more than a "heckuva job" answer.

News services were given 15 minutes' notice that the conference was going to happen, which was not nearly enough time to get enough people together. Reporters were given a toll-free line to listen to the dog and pony show, but had no way to ask questions of Mr. Johnson. The response from the White House has been mostly a slap on the wrist with a cotton swab. White House spokesperson Dana Perino's statement said in part, "It’s not something I would have condoned," and "And they — I’m sure — will not do it again.? No, not this administration!

Frankly, this gives me chills. Staged press conferences are nothing more than government propaganda. It doesn't matter whether there is a Democrat or Republican in the White House--or any other part of the government--it is wrong to dupe the American public like this. At the risk of making an appeal to prejudices, this is the same kind of thing that we condemned when the Soviet Union was presenting its Potemkin Village to the world, and now we are copying their best (or worst, depending upon your perspective) practices. This kind of behavior from our government officials is unacceptable, and we as the American people deserve better.

I am calling on my readers and listeners to call your Representatives and Senators and demand that a full investigation be initiated. We The People still have the power, and we need to use it--or lose it.

Is the name Obama really THAT hard to pronounce?

How can you play "10 questions" with the Presidential candidates?

What is Superdickery?

I had another guest appearance on Archerradio. Thanks again, Archerr!

I'm now on Twitter. Follow me at twitter.com/bluejeansguy

Here is the link to the post I mentioned in the episode: http://thatbluejeansguy.libsyn.com/index.php?post_id=265464

Music Today:



"The Last of the Superheroes (of the 1970s)" by Podsafe Music Network artist



"superhero" by Podsafe Music Network artist sherby



"Everybody's Waiting for Superman" by Podsafe Music Network artist Away With the Fairys

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

I forgot to include the link to the original Brunner-Flannery story in my show notes. Here it is for those who wish to see the original video:

http://www.wnem.com/video/14354929/index.html?taf=sag

Later,

David

I apologize for the lateness of the episode. Between the weather and the creative bug biting me with the idea of the mashup, I ran over schedule. I'll do better next week.

No Child Left Behind needs to be left behind.

Illinois passes mandatory moment of silence. Is mandatory prayer far behind?

Bay City commissioner gets his behind handed to him by another commissioner's wife, with musical tribute by me.



Click here to see the my flickr collection of both candidates' signs. You do want to.

My guest appearances on "There Are Some Who Call Me Tim" and "Archerradio" Thanks, guys!

Join the political mayhem here! here!

Music Today:



"Class Reunion" by Podsafe Music Network artist Todd Stephen



"We Can't Have Homosexual Communists Teaching in Our Schools" by Podsafe Music Network group Al Phlipp and the Woo Team



"Consortium Project IV-Children of Tomorrow" by Podsafe Music Network artist Ian Parry



"The Idiots are Taking Over-TBJG Bay City Commissioner Meeting Mayhem Mashup Mix" by Podsafe Music Network group NOFX, mix by moi. Audio is courtesy of WNEM.com. The mix is not available on iTunes, but you knew that...:)

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

"Dear Abby" supports marriage equality.

Bigotry loses big time in Oregon.

Minister T.D. Jakes would rather fight AIDS than gays.

Come and get your love here!

Music Today:



"Beautiful" by Podsafe Music Network group The Pursuit



"Two Hearts" and "Reach Out to One Another" by Podsafe Music Network artist Jennifer Avalon

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

I was very disturbed when I heard the news that CODEPINK members Medea Benjamin and Ret. Col Ann Wright were recently stopped at the Canadian border and denied entry. Apparently, Canada denies entry to anybody who has been convicted of even the most minor criminal offense, which is their right to do. Ms. Benjamin and Col. Wright were told that their names appeared on the FBI's National Crime Information Center database.

What was the "crime" that these brave ladies committed? Being arrested during one of the many protests for which they have become infamous and my personal heroines.

Did somebody take an eraser to the Bill of Rights? Our First Amendment guarantees the right of any citizen "...right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances." In plain language, this guarantees the right for people to assemble and protest, and this is what CODEPINK does. Why, then, is this being treated as a crime, and why are their names on the same list as rapists, murderers, embezzlers, and thieves?

One of the selling points for the pointless and immoral war against Iraq was that we were going to "bring democracy to the Middle East." How credible are we as a model for democracy if we deny people the right to do what our Constitution clearly gives us permission to do?

CODEPINK has started a petition to demand that the FBI remove non-violent, minor "crimes" like this from its list and that the Canadian government change its policy accordingly. Will you lend your name in support? Join people like Alice Walker, Janis Ian, Willie Nelson, Howard Zinn, and me and sign the petition today. Click on this link to go to the petition site and exercise your right to protest...while you still have it!

Pelosi says no to ENDA without trans protection.

Fred Thompson explains his marriage amendment. Is something else afoot here and should we all be worried?

James Dobson fires a warning shot at both political parties.

Politics...gotta love it!

Political news and analysis are available for your aural pleasure here.

Music Today:



"American Boy" by Podsafe Music Network group Girls Don't Cry



"Quit and Go Home" by Podsafe Music Network group The Pursuit



"Brits Abroad" by Podsafe Music Network group Sunshine Variety Club.

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

If you recall, I said in Episode 86 that I felt that within ten to twelve years, we would see a major split in the Republican Party. I felt that many of the Christian contingent within the party were beginning to realize that their issues were being glossed over in favor of issues like deregulation and cutting taxes on the rich, and they were realizing their influence and votes were being used to further an agenda with which they might not agree. These disenfranchised members of the Republican party would likely leave the party and establish a party with a platform based on conservative, fundamentalist Christian beliefs and values.

Well,it seems that I may have been right, but a little too conservative (heh) with how soon it would happen. According to this article in the New York Times, there is a movement amongst ultra-conservative Christians like James Dobson, Tony Perkins, and Richard Viguerie to break off and endorse a third-party candidate should the Republican Party choose a pro-choice presidential candidate like Rudy Giuliani. This idea is not without its detractors, with opposition coming from surprising sources like Pat Robertson and Gary Bauer. Still, it looks like my prediction may be coming true a few years sooner than I thought. Time will tell...

Once again, here's the blurb for the article:


Click on this link to go to the article.

GM gives in to pressure from the UAW.

Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm refuses to give in to pressure from the legislature.

A judge in Jena, Louisiana bows to popular pressue and releases Mychal Bell on bail.

It's "Power to the People" week!

Music Today:

(No images available)

"Money" by Podsafe Music Network group Theory in Motion



"Everyone's in this Together" by Podsafe Music Network group Love = Action

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Hillary compares Cheney to Darth Vader

James Dobson says actor/Senator Fred Thompson is not conservative enough.

South Carolina Hearts Huckabees.

Is this a movie, or a presidential campaign?

Pop some corn, give this week's episode a listen, and give me your review!

Music Today:



"My Men's Room Date's a Senator" by Podsafe Music Network group FuMP



"Behind the Mask" by Podsafe Music Network group Strangers in Wonderland



"Pray" by Podsafe Music Network group ANEMO

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Cassandra Kubinski, a friend of the show, keeps me posted on her musical performances, and I am always more than happy to pass them onto you. If you are in the area, please come out and support her and her musical friends!

1. Interview and Video of The Space, 8/28/07
2. Benefit for LifeBEAT this Wednesday in NYC!

1. Finally gettin' on board with the lights, camera, action online... check out this video of our interview with LiveBandsTouring.com and a couple songs from our live performance at The Space (Hamden, CT) a couple weeks ago! Thanks Sean for the chat :-)

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-788323518615051972& hl=en

2. For years, I've played in the AIDS hospitals of Manhattan for HIV+ patients through an organization called LifeBEAT (Note from David: Thank you!!!!). This Wednesday, I rock for a cause at this very special event. ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT LIFEBEAT, so please come and bring friends!

LifeBEAT, The Music Industry Fights AIDS Benefit Concert Wednesday, September 19
At THE BITTER END (147 Bleecker Street, between Thompson and Laguardia, New York City)
8 PM start time (I'm on 8:45-ish)
$10 (and all for a good cause!),
2 drink min. at tables
18+

8 pm- Ben Godwin
8:30 - Aly Sun
8:45- Cassandra Kubinski (including a surprise guest and a VERY rare performance... gotta come to see it ;-)
9:30- Katy Pfaffl

Thank you for your generous support of LifeBEAT and of artist like me and those listed above!











www.CKubinski.com - Official Site
www.myspace.com/CassandraKubinski
www.Sonicbids.com/CassandraKubinski - EPK

As a followup to my episode from yesterday, I am posting this clip from Comedy Central's The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. Once again, Jon Stewart has found a way to show just how ridiculous this administration is and how much they think we don't notice that they're saying the same things over and over again.

Thanks to Vittoria Conn for sending me this link. You go, girl!

General Petraeus delivers his message.

President Bush delivers the same message.

How many ways can this administration repackage the phrase "stay the course"?

Better yet, why are we putting up with it?

Music Today:



"Trinity" by Podsafe Music Network artist Vittoria Conn



"Tired of Being Lied To (TBJG Mashup)" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito



"Peace" by Podsafe Music Network group Brad Stanfield and the Spirit of Lennon (listed under Freedom People)

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

After a few days to process the predicted "dog and pony show" of a report that General David Petraeus and Ryan Crocker presented to Congress, I believe I can sum up the major points in three-word sentences:

We're feigning progress.
Stay the course.
No real plan.
Manipulate the statistics.
Misrepresent troop withdrawal.
Stall, stall, stall.
Delay further decision-making.
Wave the flag.
Hope they accept.
Repeat catch phrases.
Dodge the questions.
Question their patriotism.

And a slightly more wordy answer:

Realize that there is a presidential election next year and the Constitution has term-limited the puppet put in office by the NeoCons. Delay any substantial decision-making until after the presidential primaries are done and prepare to dump this problem on the next president. Continue to dodge any questions and refuse to accept any hint of accountability. Ride this out and get ready for the book deal.

As we all prepare for the "dog and pony show" surrounding General Petraeus' report on the "progress" shown in Iraq, I thought I'd share a little YouTube video MoveOn.org put together. If the talk of "progress" in Iraq coming from President Bush's lips sounds like deja vu, it isn't. It's just the propaganda machine churning out its one message.



And for those of us who wonder why Katie Couric got (and is keeping) her anchor position on the CBS Evening News, you can stop wondering. Listen as she plays her part of echoing the White House-approved talking points:



How long are we going to sit by idly and continue to be lied to? What will it take to get us finally to wake up?

I'm going out of town, but I wanted to get out an episode before I left.

Beloved opera star Luciano Pavarotti dies this week at 71. He will be missed by many.

Rev. D. James Kennedy (aka "Mr. 'Marriage=One Man + One Woman' Bumpersticker'") dies at 76. He will be missed by the Republican party.

Speaking of anti-gay-marriage hypocrites, Larry Craig is flip-flopping on whether or not to resign from the Senate after his little "flip-flopping" episode in the airport bathroom. He will be missed by Fox News.

All on this week's episode, which is available for your aural pleasure here.

Music Today:



"Sleep With the Angels" by Podsafe Music Network group Ivy League



"Amazing Grace" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Spak



"Revolution Now" by Podsafe Music Network artist Colleen Jameson

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

Voicemail is still down.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Lies! Sex! Scandal! Resignations! It's gotta be hard to be a Republican these days!

Press Secretary Tony Snow joins the stampede of people heading for the exits at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Larry Craig will resign from the Senate after he realizes he can't get anybody to believe he was set up, entrapped, or browbeat by the media.

There is a spiritual principle at work here, and I discuss it.

Podcasting mayhem at its finest can be found here.

Music Today:



"Fall From Grace" by Podsafe Music Network artist GeeJay (no site listed)



"Secret Life of Boys" by Podsafe Music Network artist Delphinium Blue.

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

You gotta admire a person who is so dedicated to her art that she will perform on her birthday! Happy Birthday, Cassandra, and best wishes at your concerts!

Re: Birthday weekend shows

Dear friends- It's my birthday, and I'd love nothing more than to celebrate with a few nights of fun and music. Hope you'll join me!

Thursday, August 23 6:45 pm
Falcetti Music Store (195 Elm Street) Enfield, CT
FREE, tip jar passed

***JAMES ADAMO OPENS at 6:45 in support of his awesome new CD, "Piece It Together" Get there early for a seat!***

Friday, August 24 7 pm
Mocha Coffeehouse (3 Glen Road) Sandy Hook, CT
FREE, tip jar passed.
With artist CMc- rockin' piano man

Tuesday, August 28 9 pm
The Space (295 Treadwell St) Hamden, CT
$5 for open mic, and tip jar for feature performer
OPEN MIC FEATURE PERFORMER- come for the open mic at 7 pm, and my set at 9 pm.

Also want to say CONGRATULATONS to Irene and Brian on this list- on your upcoming marriage!

And finally, my good friend and incredibly wonderful writer/artist friend, David Ippolito (better known as That Guitar Man From Central Park) featured me on his podcast recently. Check out podcast #305 on www.ThatGuitarMan.com if you want to hear.

Thanks as always-

Cassandra Kubinski

Enough with the drama already! Let's have some fun this week!

New "Butt Cam" ensures men everywhere no longer have to come up with the "perfect" answer to "Do these jeans make my ass look fat?"

Is that my new phonebook? No, just your new iPhone bill.

Check out these YouTube videos of blogger Justine Ezarik's unbelievable 300-page (front and back!) iPhone bill from AT&T.



And raw interview footage from TV station WTAE (Pittsburgh):



Apparently, the information on the bills is VERY detailed, so those who were downloading porn on their iPhones should take notice of this next item:

AT&T has given people the option of a summarized bill, or pay $1.99 to continue to get a book every month. A deal, no?

Lion's Gate Pictures sues clothing manufacturers over their use of the famous Dirty Dancing quote, "Nobody puts Baby in a corner!" on baby clothes. I wonder if produce stand owners are in danger over their inadverdent use of the less-famous but still memorable quote "I carried a watermelon?"

The reason given for the legal action is that people may mistake these for legitimately licensed clothing, not to mention the official Dirty Dancing PC Game. Based on the insert in the 20th Anniversary Edition DVD, I don't think that will be a problem...

Speaking of *Dirty Dancing,* I reveal my never-before-disclosed connection to the movie.

I play "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon," and find I can connect myself to Kevin Bacon in less than six movies!

Happy Birthday to podsafe musician Cassandra Kubinski!

Music Today:



"Immigrant Song" by Podsafe Music Network artist Ann Wilson (Yes, THAT Ann Wilson!)



"Pretty Women Got It Made" by Podsafe Music Network artist Vittoria Conn



"Hiding Underneath" by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Each week I talk about creating the life of your dreams and what it takes to do that.

I have not always been the best example of what I teach.

Listen in as I come to a new understanding of what is going on!

Music Today:



"Rain" by Podsafe Music Network artist Curious
,


"Mirror" by Podsafe Music Network artist Vittoria Conn



"Cradle the Moon" by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

As always, I like to keep everybody informed of concerts, tours, etc., for the artists whose music I play on my episodes. Cassandra Kubinski contacted me to let me know of some dates in New York and Connecticut. If you are in the area, please show your support for her.

Thanks again to Cassandra for keeping us updated. You go, girl!

---

Hi everyone-

Hope you're having a fantastic Summer! I'm sad- I haven't been to the beach at all- but I DID go to Alaska last week on vacation. Remind me to tell you about it at the upcoming shows. I'll never stop typing if I start recounting the adventures here. I hope you'll consider winding August down with us at some of these upcoming concerts, featuring new songs (and a couple new venues!)

Friday, August 17
8:30 pm
Uncommon Grounds (50 Henry Street, at Cranberry)
Brooklyn Heights, NYC
FREE, tip jar passed

**Fast becoming a neighborhood institution, try the
Shiraz or the latte (best I've had in BK Heights).
Take the AC to High Street or the 2,3 to Clark Street.

Thursday, August 23
6:45 pm
Falcetti Music Store (195 Elm Street)
Enfield, CT
FREE, tip jar passed

***JAMES ADAMO OPENS at 6:45 in support of his awesome
new CD, "Piece It Together" Get there early for a
seat! ***

Friday, August 24
7 pm
Mocha Coffeehouse (3 Glen Road)
Sandy Hook, CT
FREE, tip jar passed.
With artist CMc- rockin' piano man

Tuesday, August 28
9 pm
The Space (295 Treadwell St)
Hamden, CT
$5 for open mic, and tip jar for feature performer
OPEN MIC FEATURE PERFORMER- come for the open mic at 7
pm, and my set at 9 pm.

As always, "Hold the Sun" and "hiding underneath" available at www.CKubinski.com or iTunes and other digital retailers.

It's the end of Summer. Begin holiday shopping now ;-)

Thanks for your support, and looking forward to seeing you!

Followup on last week's episode.

correction to the music listed:

The David Ippolito song was "Don't Lose Sight of the Dream," not "Crazy on the Same Day"

Memorial for the miners killed in Indiana.

Comment from a listener and my response to him.

It's time to put into practice what I've been talking about!

Heidi Bethune is back and better than ever!

Music Today:



"All My Rivers Lead to You" by Podsafe Music Network artist ANTIQCOOL



"Amazing Grace" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Spak



"Turnaround" by Podsafe Music Network artist Vittoria Conn



"Today" by indie musician Heidi Bethune, featuring Todd Bethune on guitar.

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Universal Pop Quizzes: What are they? What do they mean? Why the *&^% do they happen?

Listen in to find out!

Music Today:



"When Your Down" by Podsafe Music Network artist ANTIQCOOL



"Crazy on the Same Day" by Podsafe Music Nework artist David Ippolito



"Letting Go" by Podsafe Music Network group Satellite State

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

And I could not be happier!

While I lived in Nashville, I was introduced to an incredibly talented and creative group who went by the name of "Fleming & John." Composed of husband-and-wife team Fleming McWilliams and John Mark Painter.

Fleming has been described as a "vocal gymnast" and "operatic" for her ability to do a vocal slide from the top of her vocal range to the bottom and back up again in a matter of a second. Her voice takes center stage on all of the duo's songs and is the defining characteristic of the group's alternative (she prefers the term "weird pop") sound.

John is undoubtedly one of Nashville's most versatile musicians. From the everyday guitar and drums to instruments with more exotic names like the mellotron, hurdygurdy, djembe, theremin, and Space Phone, if it is capable of making sound, there's a good chance John knows how to play it, and John contributes nearly all of the instrumentation and some vocals for their albums. Both Fleming and John have penned lyrics which are quite literary, with the most popular song "The Pearl" having been based on the works of John Steinbeck. Great lyrics plus the slightly exotic sounds give the songs a depth that is rarely heard in mainstream music.

Together, the duo formed a sound unlike anything else heard in the late '90s. On their two commercially produced albums, the song format varies from punk to hard rock to disco to lounge. In other words, forget pigeonholing these two. They stand on their own.

Unfortunately, this unique sound gave their record label, Universal Records, a headache trying to market and promote the group. They got extensive radio play in their home base of Nashville (yes, there is more than just country in Nashville), and limited play in other parts of the country. Their major brush with the big time occurred in a one-time performance on "Late Night With Conan O'Brien," but for whatever reasons, the group never caught on like they should have.

Not content just to keep their talent to themselves, Fleming and John have contributed vocally and musically to the works of other artists ranging from dc Talk to the Indigo Girls to mutual friend Ben Folds, to William Shatner (yes). John wrote the score for the film Hoodwinked, and Fleming contributed some vocals, including a duet with Jim Belushi.

Today, the duo has focused some of their creative energy on raising their three-year-old son, "Franky," and is in the process of writing and recording some new material. They apparently have been released from their contract with Universal, because they list themselves as an "indie" group. They have uploaded two songs to their MySpace page, and they plan on uploading more until they have enough to make a new album. Let me get in line already!

In the meantime, to get an idea of what the hell I am talking about, check out their two albums

Delusions of Grandeur

(My favorite songs are "I'm Not Afraid" "Love Songs" and "Rain All Day")

and

The Way We Are

(My favorite songs are "The Pearl", "Ugly Girl", and "Radiate").

Also, check out these so-called "really bad bootleg" videos of an F&J performance on YouTube, along with a song-and-dance performance of "Break the Circles" that sent chills down my spine.



Help me spread the word about Fleming & John, and let's encourage them to complete that album!

I recently received an email from David b (not me) and Brian, the hosts of "The Occasional Fag" Podcast, concerning a great work that needs your help.

Here's the letter:

Subject:* Help get the Johnson Center open -please read and foward


7/25/07



Dear Friends and Supporters:



It was close to midnight at the shelter one night when my phone rang. The voice was familiar – a young man we knew, but hadn't seen in months– and panicky. "Kate, I'm trapped, he won't let me leave!" I knew we didn't have much time, so I asked for his address. Just as he blurted it out, there was a crash as the phone was grabbed from his hand. Then came the
smooth tones of an older man, a lawyer, who had been keeping this boy captive at his apartment using drugs to keep him docile. As he tried to convince me nothing was wrong, I scribbled a note to my staff: "call the police." Luckily, the police were able to get the young man out safely and
bring him to our shelter.

Experiences like these have taught us that, for homeless LGBT youth, crises can occur at any time. Parents don't schedule an appointment to kick their kids out; young people running from violent pimps don't do it on a 9am-to-5pm schedule; and young people who need help can't wait until
Monday morning.

In order to meet these needs, we have created the Marsha P. Johnson Center, the nation's first 24-hour drop-in center for LGBT youth. At our 5,000 square foot space in Harlem, homeless youth will be able to shower, eat, wash their clothes, see medical and mental health staff and participate in a wide range of groups and activities – everything from a transgender
empowerment group to ballet class!

But we need your help – the Johnson Center is almost complete, but we are $20,000 short of being able to finish construction, including safety equipment, without which the City will not allow us to open. So we are leading the "$20 Challenge". We know that many people want to help, but
don't have $20,000 – or even $100 – to give, so we want 1,000 people to
donate $20 each.

What you can do:

1) Send your $20 (or more, if you can!) to:

MCCNY/Homeless Youth Services
446 W 36th St.
NYC NY 10018

or go online to www.homelessyouthservices.org and click the "make a donation" link. Please put "$20 challenge" in the memo line. Contributions are tax-deductible.



2) Circulate the letter – send it to everyone you know!



3) Organize your friends – collect $20 from five people and send us a check for $100.



4) Donate new or used furniture and other items – see our website:
www.homelessyouthservices.org for a list of items needed at the Johnson Center.



Thanks so much for being someone who cares about LGBT youth.



Sincerely,







Kate Barnhart
Director
MCCNY/Homeless Youth Services
446 W 36th St
NYC NY 10018

(End of letter)

I have already sent money to the Center via PayPal, and I am asking my listeners to send whatever donation you can afford. The importance of a great work like this can not be overstated. GLBT youth who have found themselves on the streets are vulnerable to...well...everything to which
any homeless person is vulnerable. Plus, they have the stigma of being gay, lesbian, bisexual, and/or transgendered on top of it. Isn't it worth a few minutes of your time and $20 of your money to ensure that this great work continues? It was for me!

Thank you for your support.

Intro and Outro Music:

"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

The NAACP's recent funeral for the "N" word and seeing Isaiah Washington on a rerun of Oprah got me thinking: why don't we have a funeral not only for all of the divisive and stereotypical language, but also for the thoughts which create those words?

This is a Unity teaching in action!

Music Today:



(Lovecraft's images are copyrighted. Check them out here.



"Love Into Love" by Podsafe Music Network artist Lovecraft (Michael Soiseth)



"It's All About Love" by Podsafe Music Nework group The Paint Sisters



(No images available for ANTIQCOOL).



"Brothers are Made This Way" by Podsafe Music Network artist

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 989-326-2432.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

It's official now!

Feast of Fools, the "podcast that guarantees sassafraction" and the podcast that was one of the major inspirations for me getting into the "business" has been nominated two years in a row for "Best GLBT Podcast," and in an historic first, has been nominated for "Podcast of the Year."

Yes, the "podcast that makes its own gravy" has punched a hole through the "Pink Ceiling" and has earned yet another well-deserved accolade.

But, wait! The story does not end here, for this is only a nomination. Winning requires some action on your part. I'm asking all of my listeners and readers to help Feast of Fools win again this year. Besides being great entertainers, Fausto, Marc, Ronnie, Amanda, Sal-E, and the rest of the crazy gang are great people who deserve every honor they get.

Voting for the actual awards opens on Saturday, July 28, 2007 and continues through Saturday, August 11, 2007. To vote, go to www.podcastawards.com and vote. You must register to vote, and you can only vote once per 24 hours. No spamming to help them win! :-)

Oh, and by the way, if you've never heard this podcast and wonder what the hell I'm talking about, then click here and listen. It's the podcast that won't touch you in the morning and then just walk away!

Listen today!

Still ready to receive: new or gently-used Windows-based PC for church's bookstore. Anybody need a tax writeoff?

Resuming the discussion of Unity's belief system!

The creative process-Unity style.

Music Today:

(no images available)

"Creative Energy" by Podsafe Music Network artist Charlie Bobus, featuring Wayne Armond on guitar



"Create Your Fate" by Podsafe Music Nework group Steadman



"Our Lives Are Shaped by What We Love" by Podsafe Music Network artist Steffen Coonan

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Still ready to receive: new or gently-used Windows-based PC for church's bookstore.

Anybody need a tax writeoff?

Due to a physically and emotionally draining week, my body has decided to give me a "slowdown" message, leaving my voice unfit for recording.

I put the recording session off until Sunday, and no improvement, so I am posting one of my classic episodes.

Since I have been discussing Unity's belief system, this episode will fit in well with the sequence.

I apologize to everybody for not being able to come through, and I will take care of myself this week, so hopefully the microphone doesn't get lonely.

Just a reminder that this episode was one of my early ones, so the sound quality is not as good, and I had not started adding in music yet, but I still liked what I was doing with the show then. Hopefully, you will too.

Until later, stay strong and powerful, and I will be talking with you soon!

*************************

I am taking a different direction with the podcast, starting with this episode.

I originally wanted to do a podcast that would share my personal beliefs without being preachy.

I will begin today by talking about the first of the five basic Unity principles, which covers Unity's concept of God.

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Still ready to receive: new or gently-used Windows-based PC for church's bookstore.
Anybody need a tax writeoff?

Still going with the discussion of Unity's belief system.

Listen in for how Unity students approach challenging life situations.

Music Today:



"Really Upbeat" by Podsafe Music Network artists The Fabrications



"Silverlining" by Podsafe Music Nework group kidbrother

And a blast from the past for GenXers in a way you never thought you'd hear it:



"Land of the Silver Birch" by Podsafe Music Network group Rockosaurus Rex

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Needed: new or gently-used Windows-based PC for church's bookstore. Anybody need a tax writeoff?

Still going with the discussion of Unity's belief system.

Unity believes in building bridges between others to celebrate our oneness. Who needs walls?

Music Today:



"Revolution of the Heart" by Podsafe Music Network artist Howard Jones



"Feel the Need in Me" by Podsafe Music Nework artist Antiqcool

Download "Same God" (mp3)
from "Big Black Hole And The Little Baby Star"
by Sean Hayes
Sean Hayes

• Buy at Sean Hayes Music Store
• Buy at Fast Atmosphere Sean Hayes Store
• Buy at iTunes Music Store

More On This Album



Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

A hate crime is any crime which has been committed against another person solely because of that person's race, religion, creed, sexual orientation, nationality, gender, or age. Hate crime legislation has been on the books since the middle of the 20th Century, but that legislation has never included sexual orientation.

Now, in this historic time, we face the possibility of righting this wrong in the form of a bill before the Senate. This bill would amend the hate crimes laws to include sexual orientation and extend protection to a group of Americans who have not had such protection up until now. The bill has already passed the House of Representatives, and when it passes the Senate, it will go to President Bush.

President Bush has been against this type of legislation since he made the statement in 2000 that "all crimes are hate crimes" during one of his televised debates. Ironically, it is one of the positions he took in his campaign that he has not reversed, and he has threatened this bill with a veto. This threat, and the extremely well-coordinated efforts of groups like the American Family Association, Focus on the Family, and others who use religious beliefs to justify discrimination, have made some senators nervous about voting for such an important piece of legislation.

These groups have used outright lies to stall this legislation, stating that the law would put a preacher in jail for speaking out against homosexuality. In fact, the law recognizes that the First Amendment protects such speech, and does not attempt to control or criminalize it at all. Yet, the campaign of misinformation continues, and it could derail such an important piece of legislation. We can fight lies with the truth, and the truth could literally set millions of Americans free.

I am asking anyone reading this blog to watch this short video below, then ask five of your friends to do the same, then call or email your senator and ask them to vote for the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Act. If you would like further information on how to contact your senator or how you can assist further with our efforts to get the truth out, then follow this link to find out more. Thanks in advance for helping spread the word!

Still needed: new or gently-used Windows-based PC for church's bookstore. Anybody need a tax writeoff?

Still going with the discussion of Unity's belief system.

Whoever you are, whatever your situation, you will always be welcome at a Unity church.

Find out why!

Music Today:



"Everyone's In This Together-Final Mix" by Podsafe Music Network artist Love = Action



"Common Ground" by Podsafe Music Nework artist David Ippolito
br/> Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Dear Friends,

Just a reminder that we play this weekend, and hope that you'll join us to kick off SUMMER (my favorite season...bring on the beach!)


NYC: THURSDAY, JUNE 21
8 PM
The Triad (158 W. 72nd St, 2nd floor)
$10, 2 drink minimum

**With Dan Ferrari and Laura Monaco**

ENFIELD, CT: SATURDAY, JUNE 23
7 PM
Holy Family Church Fair (Annual Celebration)- 23 Simon Rd.
FREE!

Food, drinks, games, prizes, all that you love about outdoor fairs- and free live music, to boot.



Thank you all for your continued support! Last night, I negotiated the last bit of my first PUBLISHING CONTRACT, which may not mean very much to some of you, but is a big step for me as a songwriter- it's for "Somebody Told Me", from HOLD THE SUN. You guys are all part of this- your enthusiasm, encouragement, and help makes all the difference , and keeps me going. Thanks!

HOLD THE SUN on iTunes - Get it Here!

Needed: new or gently-used Windows-based PC for church's bookstore. Anybody need a tax writeoff?

Continuing the discusison of Unity's belief system with a discussion of the unique way we interpret the Bible.

Music Today:



"Why" by Podsafe Music Network artist Anthony Michael Pearl



"Love That We Forgot" by Podsafe Music Nework artist Maria Daines



"What's It About" by Podsafe Music Network artist Aaron

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

The level of incompetence and outright ignorance in corporate America never ceases to amaze me, especially when it comes to corporations' relationships with their GLBT employees and/or customers.

That ignorance reached a new low this past week when Kroger supermarkets in Nashville, Tennessee decided to pull Out & About, a gay weekly newspaper off their shelves. According to this article originally printed in The Advocate and reprinted on PlanetOut.com, the newspaper was pulled due to Kroger's corporate policy of not displaying publications that promote "religious, political, or other specific agendas." Yet, as the article points out, Kroger has allowed other publications such as Nashville's alternative newspaper The Nashville Scene to remain on its shelves.

Having lived in Nashville, I can attest to the statement that the Scene does get political, and the publication leans hard to the left. Out & About, like most gay publications that deal with politics to any extent, is also very left-oriented--or at least it was when I lived there. But, this is not about politics, folks. It's about Kroger's lack of spine when it comes to any amount of controversy and Kroger's dedication to doing whatever it takes to preserve their bottom line.

Kroger bowed to pressure from groups like the American Family Association and agreed to put metal covers over the front of its checkout displays of Cosmopolitan, thereby obscuring everything on the front cover but the title.

Kroger bought part of the stores from Kessel, a locally-owned privately held grocery chain when the owner decided to retire. Kroger promised that the name would not be changed, only to go back on that promise and change the name within six months of closing the deal.

Kroger has also had a longstanding reputation of keeping food on its shelves WAY past the expiration date, although they seem to be doing better with this now.

This new action by Kroger very likely has less to do with any policy of not displaying politically slanted material than it has to do with the fact that Nashville is home to the Southern Baptist Convention, at least two religious publishing houses, two very large religious universities--David Lipscomb and Belmont, and churches almost literally on every street corner. The churches in Nashville have always done whatever they could to control the political and social landscape, and this event would seem to have their fingerprints all over it. I have no proof, but I feel confident that this is the case.

So, in short, when it serves Kroger's bottom line, they will do whatever it takes to keep complaints to a minimum, no matter who gets shoved aside in the process. This is not a wise move on Kroger's part, and it now has gained them some negative publicity. Well, here is some more.

I am asking my readers and listeners to boycott Kroger and all of its brands until the Nashville stores return Out & About to their newsstands. Companies like Kroger speak only one language: money. If we are to get their attention, we have to make a serious dent in their sales and teach them that the GLBT community won't take this lying down.

Here are some things you can do:

*If you have any one of Kroger's stores near you, I encourage you to call and tell them that since some of their sister stores have decided that gay publications are not welcome in the stores, then Kroger is obviously not in need of the business that GLBT people bring into their stores, and you will be all to happy to shop the competition. See below for a complete listing of Kroger's store portfolio

*If you have a Plus discount card, cut it in half and mail it to Kroger's corporate headquarters, along with a letter explaining your reasons for doing so. See below for the address.

*If you have a Kroger credit card, consider closing your account. Credit is a big moneymaker for any company, and they won't like the sight of losing that interest revenue.

*If you have stock in the Kroger Company, then don't sell it yet. Stock holdings equal votes at shareholder meetings, and this could be used to leverage Kroger in the near future.

*Above all, stick with this. Corporate America doesn't listen to the little guys enough, and we have to make a lasting impression.

*If anybody has suggestions about how else we can send a message to Kroger, then please comment here or email me.

Together we can make a difference.

Kroger's brands:

Kroger
Ralphs
King Soopers
City Market
Dillons
Smith's Food & Drug Stores
Fry's
Quality Food Centers (QFC)
Baker's
Owen's
JayC Food Stores
Hilander
Gerbe's
Pay Less Super Markets
Food 4 Less
Foods Co
Fred Myer
Fry's Marketplace
Smith's Marketplace
Kroger Marketplace
TurkeyHill
KwikShop
Loaf'nJug
QuikStop
TomThumb
Fred Myer Jewelers
Littman Jewelers
Barclay Jewelers
Kroger Personal Finance

Kroger's Customer Relations address ist:

The Kroger Co.
Customer Relations
1014 Vine Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-1100

Continuing the presentation of Unity's belief system with a discussion of our practice of unconditional love.

Music Today:



"We Will Love You (Even Though You're Insane)" by Podsafe Music Network group The Alice Project



"Turnaround" by Podsafe Music Nework artist Vittoria Conn



"Save You Tonight" by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski (song version not availale on PMN)

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

My call into the "Where's the Voice?" podcast, the host's response to my call, and my response to his response.

BIG thanks to David Ippolito for plugging the show!

Links to the episodes I mentioned:

Episode 6

Episode 7

Episode 9

Episode 10

Episode 12

Music Today:



"Closer-Radio Edit" by Podsafe Music Network group Lacuna Coil



"The Religion Song" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Cindy Sheehan announced today that she is stepping aside from being the leader of the peace movement. Sheehan entered the public consciousness in the wake of her son Casey's death from an ambush in Baghdad in 2004. Sheehan was most famous for purchasing five acres of land next to President Bush's ranch in Crawford, Texas and christening it "Camp Casey." She took up residence at Camp Casey in August 2005 and vowed to stay on the property while President Bush was on his vacation at Crawford and would not leave until he talked to her about her son's death. Sheehan had to leave Camp Casey after she was diagnosed with cancer, but the movement  continued to flourish for a time.

Fast-forward nearly three years, and the peace movement is still ongoing, but Sheehan's charge of apathy and division seems to have merit. Sheehan stated that more people care about who wins on American Idol than how many people are dying daily in Iraq. Is it apathy, institutionalized censorship, or are we getting numb?

The war in Iraq has been compared ad nauseum to the war in Vietnam, and many of the same tactics have been used to diminish and repudiate the efforts of the antiwar movement. The major difference between the Vietnam era and now is that the news media has become the voicebox for the entertainment industry. The so-called "liberal media" has become less about reporting actual news and providing analysis of evidence than about selling stories carefully packaged with vetted messages, flashy graphics, theme music, and interchangeable talking heads, almost as if a script were being written and passed around to all of the networks. Is it news, is it propaganda, or is it entertainment? The lines between fantasy and reality are heavily smudged now, to put it mildly.

Cindy Sheehan was likely the victim of the fact that her protest effort became less entertaining as it became the mainstream opinion. Fewer people were against the war when she set up Camp Casey than they are now. The outcome of the 2006 elections seemed to be a public demonstration of frustration with the status quo and a call for change. Now that the new Congress has been in session for nearly half a year, it would seem that addressing the war in Iraq is less about doing the right thing than it is about looking right while doing nothing. Antiwar protests are becoming more commonplace, ranging from bumper stickers calling for an end to war to heavily-attended rallies in even the smallest towns. As anybody knows, the more common something is, the more it tends to fade into the background noise. Perhaps the reason that antiwar opinion seems to be waning is that it is so prevalent that it is actually the norm, and pro-war opinion is actually out of the norm.

Upon announcing her stepping out of the spotlight, Cindy Sheehan stated that it was "up to us." I would say that it was always up to us. It is up to all of us to stay focused on the issue. If as many calls were made to the offices of our Congressional Representatives and Senators as were made to so much as one episode of American Idol or Dancing With the Stars or any other of the reality shows, then we might see a different story coming out of Congress. We might see bills calling for troop withdrawal passing with veto-proof margins. We might see actual oversight of the White House occurring, and we might see an end to the escalation of engagement with Iran and Syria. In short, we might actually see a return of government that is truly "of, by, and for" the people. It was always up to all of us, and now it is again. What will we do?

Today is Memorial Day--a day our country set aside to remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation during wartime. It is always important to remember that our very nation's independence depended upon fighting for our freedom. It is also important to remember that freedom is an ongoing process, and that the quest for freedom will never quite be completed.

Whatever you feel about our current situations in Afghanistan and Iraq, it is always important to remember that over 3000 American servicepeople have given their lives. Despite our government's attempts to censor coverage of these dead, they are no less worthy of honor on this day. In fact, it is especially important that we remember them and honor their memory by ensuring that wars are never started again on false pretenses.

Today, as you are going throughout your planned activities, remember the many war dead who came before us, as well as the ongoing conflicts elsewhere in the world. May the men and women of our Armed Forces be able to come home soon, and may we learn to solve differences by working together and talking. That is truly honoring the memory of our war dead.

I'm back in the studio again.

I enjoyed doing the last two episodes on location, and I now realize I need some better equipment!

I just got a camcorder for a graduation present, and I intend to start doing some video podcasts.

Stay subscribed for more.

My review of the production of Closer at Saginaw Valley State University.

The Saginaw News published a review of the play that includes quotes very similar to my comments in the Episode 68 interview.

Do I have a loyal listener at The Saginaw News, or do great minds just think alike?

Read, listen, and judge for yourself...

Music Today:



"Make Up Your Mind" by Podsafe Music Network group The Time Beings



"I Don't Believe in Love" by Podsafe Music Network artist Alicia Marie



"Ride Alone" by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Here is yet another great music video from David Ippolito. His previous videos were in slideshow form, and this new one features David himself performing the song on the piano.

The song is a parody of Barry Manilow's song "Mandy," but instead of making a love song to a lost love done wrong, David funnels all of his wrath toward ExxonMobil, gas prices, and, the Bush administration.

Enjoy.

I am usually a person who likes to think through an issue before commenting on it, particularly when the issue is as emotional as the passing of Jerry Falwell. So, I chose not to jump immediately into the discussion until I had adequate time to process through the news and sort out my true feelings.

I was in high school during the so-called "rise of the Religious Right," for which Jerry Falwell is being given a lot of credit. It was during this time that there was a seeming explosion of religiously-based programming on national television, giving the likes of Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker, Jerry Falwell, Pat Robertson, James Dobson, and Jimmy Swaggart a place in the national spotlight. Evangelism on television was nothing new, as Norman Vincent Peale, Billy Graham, and Robert Schuller had been in front of television cameras for many years prior.

What was different about this era was that not only was each person preaching his own narrow interpretation of the Bible as the one and only truth, but he was also mixing politics and religious teaching in a way that had not been as prominent as before. The movement had been there for many years, but the scope of the national audience was considerable, and the attention given it by the national media was just as considerable. Financial and sexual scandals erupted within several of the ministries, and indeed some of the televangelists ended up having to exit their national spotlight, only to have others like Falwell step into that empty space.

In many ways, Jerry Falwell was as much an opportunist as he was any kind of leader. He quickly got involved in the aforementioned PTL Club scandal after it was revealed that Jim Bakker had an extramarital affair and that PTL Club funds were mismanaged. Money which was supposed to go to starving children in other countries went instead to fund air conditioned dog houses, expensive cars, and the financial propping-up of the Heritage USA theme park operated by PTL. Jerry took full advantage of the opportunity to look like the PTL's savior by announcing his intentions to raise enough money to get PTL out of its impending bankruptcy. His efforts included a live broadcast of his riding down one of the water slides in a full three-piece suit--his way of thanking donors for sending a reported $20 million in to help PTL settle its debts. As theatrical as this effort was, the ultimate fate of Heritage USA was to be shut down and the property has subsequently changed hands multiple times.

The water slide event would be just the beginning of Jerry Falwell's love for theatrics and seemingly desperate attempts at keeping his place in the national spotlight. His foundation of the Moral Majority forged an alliance with the Republican Party and solidified a connection between religious fundamentalists and political conservatives that survives to this day, although there have been recent rumblings that the Republican Party considers its fundamentalist Christian base more of an albatross than an asset.

Falwell's attempts at self-promotion continued with his vocal support of the first war against Iraq. People of Falwell's ilk talked of this being the biblical battle of Armageddon, and they awaited what they considered the inevitable return of Christ to the earth to fight the battle on the behalf of the United States and the other allied nations. Falwell rode this renewed wave of publicity, freely giving out his opinions whenever a camera lens and microphone were within his reach.

His righteous indignations continued as Bill Clinton defeated George H. W. Bush in the 1992 presidential election, and his sermons of fear and hatred toward progressive thoughts were a likely contributor to the subsequent Republican takeover of Congress in 1994. His self-righteousness never wavered throughout the manufactured scandals concerning Clinton's sex life which eventually led to Clinton's unsuccessful impeachment. It is hard to blame Falwell for being so vocal, as he did not always find the cameras as friendly as they had been during the Reagan presidency.

Falwell's hatred and fearmongering are still recognized as one of the major contributing factors to the rapid spread of the AIDS pandemic. In the early days of the crisis, Falwell declared AIDS to be "God's revenge" against homosexuals, and his influence may very well have led to foot-dragging on the part of the Reagan administration when the opportunities for research on the causes and cures of the disease were presented. The revelation that AIDS was not exclusive to the LGBT community was brushed aside, and efforts to teach preventative measures were scoffed at if they did not speak exclusively of abstinence. Falwell's influence arguably had the far-reaching consequence of too many people dying from a disease that could have been slowed down while a cure was being found. Falwell enabled a genocide to happen against a significant portion of the population, a legacy for which he never showed an ounce of shame.

In his later years, Falwell continued his desperate attempts to maintain his place in the public consciousness, often to his detriment. In the days following the events of September 11, 2001, he went on fellow evangelist Pat Robertson's 700 Club television show and made the following remarks:


It should be noted here that Falwell's jab at the ACLU would turn out to be hypocritical, since he was enlisting the aid of the organization in a legal challenge to a Virginia law making the incorporation of a church illegal, but that was the least of his worries. Falwell received a much-deserved and much-delayed rebuke from the George W. Bush administration, prompting a half-hearted apology from Falwell.

Falwell's remarks in the aftermath of September 11, 2001, were hardly unique, as he frequently directed his hatred toward the same groups he enumerated. He responded to Ellen DeGeneres' coming out by referring to her as "Ellen Degenerate." He referred to the Muslim prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) as a "terrorist." Falwell remarked that the Antichrist character would come back as a male Jew. It would seem that Falwell hardly missed an opportunity to offend if it meant he could keep resetting his Warholian "15 minutes of fame" timer.

As I read some of the initial reports of Jerry Falwell's death, I found that he had been raised in a home environment that included an abusive, alcoholic father, as well as a religiously devout mother. His embrace of religion and his quest to be a minister could be seen as his way of escaping that past, but his choice of using religion to abuse others could be seen as bringing his past with him. Perhaps the combination of the two contributed to a warped view of the role of religion in people's lives, and possibly informed his behavior. I am not giving him an excuse, because he was an adult, and perfectly capable of dealing with his demons. His public behavior would lead one to believe that the demons were still there, and he was quite comfortable with them, as long as it kept him from fading into obscurity.

Falwell has already been memorialized as a figure singularly responsible for changing the face of politics, whether or not he is truly worthy of that accolade. In my mind his legacy will one day be seen for what it really was: a desperate, lifelong attempt to compensate for an abusive upbringing, the classic pathology of passing the abuse on to the next generation, and encouragement of others to do the same. This is a legacy that deserves to die along with him.

(Members of Double Negative. From left to right, Zach Lupp, Dave McGrath, Tony Skarich, Brentt Brunner)

Local group "Double Negative" in concert at Monitor Lanes, 5-11-07

The group sat down and gave me an interview before they performed.

You won't want to miss this!

Fair warning: this episode is not child-safe or work-safe!

Check out Double Negative on MySpace

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-202-3498.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

I am one of the many people who believes that Paris Hilton is one of the most overexposed people and least deserving of her celebrity. I also can't believe that with every other injustice going on in the world that people are actually protesting her pending imprisonment. Do they realize that we have a war going on, that civil rights are being eroded at an unprecedented rate, and that we have corruption in our government that surpasses anything seen before? Are they just bored?

Once again, David Ippolito hits the proverbial nail on its head with one of his songs. To emphasize that he did not make this up, he went around New York and videotaped actual people holding "Free Paris" signs. If we could just funnel 1% of that energy toward something constructive, like balancing the budget, alternative fuels research, or holding our national leaders accountable for Constitutional crimes...

Oh well, just watch!

My first interview episode!

I sit down with Mathew (yes, there is only one "t") Easterwood, a senior theatre student at Saginaw Valley State University.

Mat is directing a production of the stage play "Closer," which was the basis for the movie of the same name.

I also talk with three of the cast members Scott Young (Dan), Molly Espinoza (Anna), and Kate Fisher (Alice) about the play and the process of breathing life into their characters.

The play opens May 22, 2007 at the Black Box Theatre in Curtiss Hall on the campus of Saginaw Valley State University.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting or calling the box office at (989)964-4261.

Many thanks to Mat, Scott, Molly, and Kate for taking the time to do the interview!

Music today:



"Hiding Underneath" by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Job update.

I respond to a thought-provoking comment on one of my text blog entries.

I have finally hit upon the reason why I blog and podcast, and what a breakthrough it is!

Music today:



"Be a Reason" by Podsafe Music Network group Everyday Atlas



"Where's the Voice"

and

"Bill O'Reilly: The Legend of the Big Giant Head" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito



Change in My Lifetime" by Podsafe Music Network artist Z.Hurd

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

I am eternally grateful for the many talented artists who grant the right to use their music for free in my show. As a way of giving back, I try to pass on tour and performance information when I get it.

Cassandra Kubinski is one of the artists who does a great job of keeping me informed, and I'm all too happy to pass on her information to you.



If you are in the Connecticut area on these dates, please support Cassandra by seeing her show. Thanks for helping support the podsafe artists!


NEXT WEEKEND! Back in CT for 2 performances.

FRIDAY, MAY 11
8:45 pm set (Come early, like 7:30, to catch the whole evening) The Space (195 Treadwell St, Hamden, CT) $10

With Abigail Zsiga and Amanda Kaletsky, both of whom I've shared bills with before- they are both inspiring and impressive writers as well as performers!

The Space is an ALL AGES venue and always a relaxing, fun night out.

SATURDAY, MAY 12
4 pm
Somers Relay for Life
Pleasantview Golf Center, Rte. 83, Somers, CT Free!
Most of us will have (or have had) our lives touched by cancer in some way. Show your support for the Relay walkers and have a late afternoon picnic on the lawn (we'll be playing outside, weather permitting)

Want to know the songs before you come to the show? "Hold the Sun" is always ready for pickup at www.CKubinski.com...and now on iTunes!

"Hold the Sun" on iTunes

Looking forward to seeing you again,

Cassandra Kubinski

Job update.



An open letter to the members of the Michigan chapter of the American Family Association, concerning their unsuccessful attempts to
Read the response from SVSU president, Eric Gilbertson

You won't want to miss this...

Music today:



"To Be an Angel" by Podsafe Music Network group Uncle Seth



"JesusLand" Podsafe Music Network musician David Ippolito



"Stop Lying in My Face" by Podsafe Music Network artist Calvin Owens

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget that this podcast has an alternate feed: feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy, which will also deliver my text blog entries to your RSS reader!

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

I usually begin each episode with an inspirational message about building the life of one's dreams and changing when things are not going according to plan.

I also talked last week about the need to be better toward each other. Both of these messages hit me between the eyes this week.

Listen in for more...

Music today:

"What We've Been Waiting For" Podsafe Music Network musician Rik Leaf

"Pass on Love" by Podsafe Music Network group People Coyote

"Put a Little Love" by Podsafe Music Network artist Beatrice Ericsson

Intro Music:

"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:

"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

 Visit my webpage at http://thatbluejeansguy.libsyn.com, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/thatbluejeansguy/.

Thanks for listening,and Stay Powerful!

Who knows better what "Support the Troops" means?

Is it a former soldier:

VideoVets: Michael Breen

How about the mother of a soldier:

VideoVets: Pamela Osborne

Or, maybe the sister of a soldier?

VideoVets: Michelle Barish

Or, do we have to trust the words of a politician saying we are making "progress" in the war in Iraq?

MoveOn.org is looking for its next commercial, and they need your help.

Click on any of the videos you see, and then follow this link to view the other videos and to vote for the one you think should be the next MoveOn.Org commercial.

I look at the Virginia Tech shooting and ask one question:

When things like this happen, why are we more enthusiastic about laying blame than we are about making sure everybody has been helped first?

Music today:



"Save You Tonight" (live version available from music.download.com) by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski



"Common Ground" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ipppolito

"Lotta Lonely People" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito

*I Love the Company* Podcast promo

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

As promised, here is the new video by David Ippolito.

The song is a merciless spoof of Bill O'Reilley, often using his own quotes against him in a way that has to be heard to be believed! LOL.

Watch the video, then go to YouTube and comment on it. Let me know as well what you think about the video.

I apologize for the late posting. My two jobs are keeping me super busy, and the production schedule may be erratic for a while.

I appreciate everybody's patience.

Imus is unemployed.

Duke University lacrosse players are off the hook.

Was justice done, or was it all for money?

Either way, the conversation about racism continues.

Music today:



"Everywhere You Look" by Podsafe Music Network group The National Pool



*I Love the Company* podcast promo

"He's Just Mean" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Don't forget my Feedburner Feed, which will deliver my podcast episodes AND my blog entries. The feed URL is:

http://feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

But why am I whispering, when the pro-war shills are shouting as loud as ever in support of President Bush's failed Iraq war? I wanna scream, shout, let it all out, and get our servicemembers out of the hell they continuously find them in. Wanna lend me a hand? Cool!

The video below is produced by the progressive, anti-war group known as "Code Pink," of which I am a proud member. It is available on YouTube, and Code Pink is asking everybody who blogs or emails to get this message out to as many people as possible. It only takes a few minutes of your time, so let's do this, and shout so loudly that we might just drown out the clowns on a certain "News" network.

To all my fans: this week has been a whirlwind of activity, and I was not able to put together a new episode.

I offer you the show's first ever rerun of the episode I posted last Easter.

As you will probably be able to tell, it was early in the show's history, and things will sound quite different.

Enjoy, and know that I will be posting a new episode this coming week, and you will NOT want to miss it.

Happy Easter,

David

***************************************

Happy Easter, everybody!

In days of old, this holiday celebrated what was understood to be the return of life to the Earth.

As Christianity spread throughout Europe, the Church encountered many Earth-based spiritualities and worked to replace their Equinox celebrations with the idea of life returning to a body.

In the biblical resurrection story, that body was of Jesus.

In my interpretation, Jesus was fulfilling the message that he had taught for most of his ministry: that death was an illusion and life was a continuous circle, never ending and never broken.

He demonstrated this by allowing his body to be killed and then calling life back into it two days later.

He taught us that we can do this to the extent of our belief.

He also taught that this power must be used responsibly.

I believe that this was how Myrtle Fillmore healed herself, and how we all can heal ourselves.

Go within today and ask yourself where you can bring life back into your body and enjoy the experience.

Music:



"Amazing Grace" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Spak



"Wish You Were Here" by Podsafe Music Network artist Jeff Eaton

/

"He's Alive" by PodsafeAudio.com and Podsafe Music Network group Jacques Grant and Rewired



"We Are Together" by Podsafe Music Network group Quebb.

"The Scripture quotations contained herein are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright (c) 1989 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. Used by permission. All rights reserved."

Happy Resurrection and Stay powerful!

My job was not looking so hot at the beginning of the week.

Seeing *The Secret* and talking with a co-worker helped me realize some important things about myself and my job.

In other words, I got a dose of the same "pep talk" (Mike Hipp's words) I give every week.

Nice to be on the receiving end...

Music today:

"You've Got To" by Podsafe Music Network group The Young Punx

"Get Your Light Up" by Podsafe Music Network artist Coconi

"Captain of My Soul" by Podsafe Music Network group Last Under the Sun

Intro Music:

"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:

"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my webpage at http://thatbluejeansguy.libsyn.com, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/thatbluejeansguy/.

Thanks for listening,and Stay Powerful!

Ok, I know I promised several times I would publish the Feedburner URL for the show, and I kept flaking and forgetting to do it.

Why subscribe with this URL, you might ask. Well, if you subscribe with this URL with an RSS reader that is podcast-compatible, then you will get not only my podcasts, but you will also get my blog entries. The blog entries will be a bit sporadic for the next few weeks while I am transitioning into my new job and away from my current one, but once that is over, I plan to blog more frequently.

So, here is the URL:

http://feeds.feedburner.com/thatbluejeansguy

As always, thanks for listening and reading, and have a great week!

David

In memoriam of a friend from back home in Erwin:



(Image courtesy of JohnsonCityPress.com)

John Mark Keesecker (1972-2007).

Mark will be missed. My prayers are with the entire Keesecker family, as well as the entirety of Unicoi County.

Job update.

The House of Representatives has finally moved to begin the end of the nightmare in Iraq. I read the AP story and editorialize.

Music today:

(No picture available)

"Love Plus Justice Equals Peace" by Podsafe Music Network artist viajah morgan (no website listed)

(No picture available)

"Pass on Love" by Podsafe Music Network group People Coyote (With me doing some impromptu backup singing :-) )



"Peace" by Podsafe Music Network artist Brad Stanfield (or is it Brad Stanfield and Spirit of Lennon? Either way, it's listed under Freedom People. Help me, Brad! :-) )

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Training for my new job has me a bit strung out. I'm still doing the episode, though, because my listeners deserve it, dammit!

Retired military officers come out and demand an apology from Gen. Pace. My comments.

Planet Out.com News claims Star Trek fanfilm series Star Trek: The New Voyages is the first to feature gay characters. Uh, no. Star Trek: Hidden Frontier, another fanfilm has it beaten by several years.

Hopefully next week my brain will be a little less gooey, and I can be back to normal--whatever the hell that is.

Music today:



"I'm So Busy" by Podsafe Music Network artist The Alice Project



"Crazy On the Same Day" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito (check out his podcast, I Love the Company, as well!)

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

One of the many possible outcomes from the Democrats' control of the Congress of the United States of America may well be the repeal of the military's "Don't Ask. Don't Tell" policy.

Instituted by President Clinton after his efforts to remove the military's ban on openly gay servicemembers met with strong opposition, the policy was intended to stop servicemembers from being subjected to "witch hunts" if their superior officers suspected they were gay.

What has actually happened is that the military is dishonorably discharging thousands more servicemembers than it did prior to the policy. This has hurt the military, particularly as many of the discharged servicemembers were specialists in Arabic languages, medical personnel, and other vital support members. In other words, the people we need most at a time we are in the Middle East are being driven out by a policy that was supposed to stop that kind of thing from happening. Apparently, somebody didn't read the policy's "Dont Ask" provision too well?

Well, now that we have had some time to see that the policy has not worked, it is only logical that it is time to look at other options. The policy is broken, and it must be fixed or replaced.

Recently, Marine Sergeant Eric Alva (Ret.), the first servicemember wounded in the current Iraq war broke his silence and announced to the world that he was gay. He has since then joined the effort to repeal "Don't Ask. Don't Tell," and he seems the perfect person to join in these efforts. He looks like a poster-boy for the Marines, and yet had his orientation ever been known, he might likely have never been allowed to serve his country (and, ironically, he would never have been wounded in combat). His efforts, and the efforts of others have not been welcomed with open arms.

On Monday, General Peter Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the armed forces, told the Chicago Tribune that he supports the ban on gay servicemembers, because he considers being gay to be "immoral." He actually went as far as to say that he likened it to having an adulterous affair with the spouse of another servicemember. Huh? In order to commit adultery, one or more of the people doing the deed must be married to somebody else. Unless they are from any state that recognizes same-sex marriage or civil unions, this is not possible with a same-sex couple, as the majority of state constitutions now ban legal recognition of a same-sex marriage.

This statement by Gen. Pace reveals an ugly truth: the hatred and discrimination that gays experience comes all the way from the top. While Gen. Pace may take time to change his attitude about gays (assuming he does at all), his hatred for gay people can not be allowed to write policy for the military. As far as we know, no gay people were ever responsible for Abu Ghiraib, Gitmo, or any of the atrocities that we have found were being done in the name of the United States. In fact, it was straight people every time, and the woman who became famous for posing in the Abu Ghiraib photos had sex with the man in charge and got pregnant out of wedlock. I wonder how THAT would register on the "immorality" scale of Gen. Pace?

I am a supporter of our men and women in uniform, and it follows that I would include the GLBTQ members as well. I support lifting the ban on the military. Much has changed in the last few years, and a recent poll showed that the majority of servicemembers polled said they did not believe that knowing a fellow servicemember was gay would have any impact on troop morale or that servicemember's ability to perform his/her duties.

One of my fellow podcasters, David Ippolito, is the host of the show I Love the Company. Every Wednesday he dedicates his episode to what he calls the "Wednesday Wakeup Call," where he discusses the current political situation in our world, usually featuring some area where things could be much better than they are. On this week's episode, David features the sound clip from Gen. Pace, and discusses the ridiculous nature of the general's comments. I would encourage any of you reading this blog entry to follow this link to listen to Episode 220 of I Love the Company, and then call in to David's voicemail line and leave comments. David is wanting to see how many people he can get to chime in with their feelings about the issue of gays in the military. He said no matter what your position, he wants to hear from you. So, give it a listen, and then give him an earful, because he does "love the company."

Thanks a bundle, David!

Ok, my Rule #1 should be, "never blog when you are falling asleep at the keyboard." So, let's try this one again.

I noticed in my weekly new release email from iTunes that the service is now offering classic episodes of The Electric Company. This show was yet another of my favorites from PBS when I was growing up. The show featured many song-and-dance routines, sketches, cartoons, and a live-action Spiderman sequence, all done with the aim of helping children learn to read. I loved all of the craziness that Rita Moreno, Ruth Buzzi, Morgan Freeman, and others got into for each episode, and I never realized that I was learning while I was laughing.

What I didn't know until a few years ago was that the show was developed by Bill Cosby. The interracial cast ensured that many an American kid could see one or more faces with whom he/she could identify, and I believe that was crucial to the show's success.

Well, now that I know that the episodes of The Electric Company will be available, I will be making some purchases on iTunes. Sooner or later, I gotta get a video iPod, too. Here once again is the link to the iTunes music store where the episodes are kept. Come on, everybody! "We're gonna turn it on....!" (excerpt from the show's theme).

Wow! Talk about a "blast from the past!" I jus found out that iTunes is  now offering episodes of The Electric Company for download. Along with Sesame Street and Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, this was a show I never missed. Every episode was full of music, dancing, singing, and reading lessons came to life in a memorable way.

Now that iTunes is offering these episodes, I will be checking out the selection and reliving some great childhood memories.

Here is the link to the iTunes store. Enjoy it!

I am happy to announce that the Democratic Party of Nevada has decided to cancel the presidential candidate debate it had planned for August of this year. According to this article in the New York Times, the decision came after much pressure from MoveOn.org and progressive bloggers.

Fox News has never been a friend to the Democratic Party, and lately the organization and its employees have further damaged the network's image in progressive eyes (as if any shred of positive image ever existed).

Fox Network has found itself in plenty of hot water with the Barak Obama campaign, having made issue of his middle name, "Hussein," and spreading the lie that he had been educated in a madrassa. For this, Obama declared he would not appear on Fox News, and it is likely that the press corps following the Obama campaign might find itself a little less "Fox-y."

Then, there is the more recent episode of hoof-in-mouth disease experienced by Ann Coulter, who referred to Democratic candidate John Edwards as a "faggot." I blogged on this and her so-called "apology" earlier this week.

So it really should have come as no surprise that the members of the Nevada Democratic Caucus would have had their sanity questioned at the mere thought of considering hosting a Democratic debate on Fox News, much less actually scheduling it. But, at least they realized their mistake and pulled the debate before dealing a possibly deadly blow to Democrats' chances of winning back the White House in 2008.

What is amazing is that Fox News was shocked and surprised by the fact that the Democrats took a stand and canceled the debate. It was especially amusing to read the statement made by David Rhodes, the vice president for news at Fox News:

“News organizations will want to think twice before getting involved in the Nevada Democratic Caucus, which appears to be controlled by radical fringe out-of-state interest groups, not the Nevada Democratic Party. In the past, MoveOn.org has said they ‘own’ the Democratic Party. While most Democrats don’t agree with that, it’s clearly the case in Nevada.?

Gee, can we say "sour grapes?" MoveOn.org did not cancel the debate; the Nevada Democrats did. And, since when did talking some sense into people become "radical fringe?" Sounds like good judgment to me.

Thanks to everybody who acted on this issue and helped convince the Nevada Democrats to give up on the idea of a so-called "debate" on Fox.

New job begins Monday; I am looking forward to the new opportunities that await me.

Lots of lying going around lately, and the trouble it can cause for all concerned.

Music today:



"Methods of Modern Madness" by Podsafe Music Network artist Radical Thought Resistance



"Breathe" by Podsafe Music Network artist Jason Brock (check out his podcast, The Peace Pod, as well!)



"Love Song" by Podsafe Music Network artist Kelly Goodlad

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Well, just when it seemed that Ann Coulter had sunk as far as she could possibly go on the troglodyte scale, it seems she has now found a new low. What's better, she has gotten so extreme that she has no fewer than three Republican candidates running scared from her.

I am a bit late into this story cycle, but maybe some of you are as well, so let's play some catchup.

You probably already know Ann Coulter, the commentator on Fox News and author of such polemical classics as How to Talk to a Liberal (If You Must!) or The Church of Liberalism. She is known for delivering completely inhuman comments with near-orgasmic relish, such as her advocacy of building the wall across the US/Mexico border and using immigrant labor to build it. Fine lady, indeed...

Well, according to this article in the New York Times, Ms. Coulter was speaking to an overflow crowd at the Conservative Political Action Conference, when she decided to give this brilliant commentary on Democratic Senator and presidential candidate John Edwards:

"I was going to have a few comments on the other Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards, but it turns out you have to go into rehab if you use the word 'faggot,' so I--so kind of an impasse, can't really talk about Edwards."

Hmm...she did use the word "faggot," so does this mean that a reservation at the Betty Ford Center is in the cards for Ms Coulter? And, despite her statement that she "...[couldn't] really talk about Edwards," she in fact did. Do I smell pants on fire?

Anyway, her remarks, which are by no means her most extreme were extreme enough that she received a criticism from no less than three Republican presidential candidates.

John McCain, who has been trying to woo Christian conservatives back since his characterization of the likes of Jerry Falwell and James Dobson as "agents of intolerance," called the comments "wildly inappropriate" through his spokesperson.

Mitt Romney, who has been trying to convince conservatives that he was just kidding when he dared to think, much less write about, some progressive viewpoints concerning abortion and gays, called the remark "offensive" and added that all people should be treated with dignity and respect.

Rudy Giuliani, who has raised many a conservative eyebrow with his divorce, his tolerance of gays, as well as his progressive views on abortion, characterized the comments as "completely inappropriate" and said further that name-calling had no place in political debate.

When asked for a reaction to the conservative condemnation of her remarks, Ann further demonstrated her unique ability to deliver a "screw you" wrapped in an apology by having this to say:

"C'mon, it was a joke. I would never insult gays by suggesting that they are like John Edwards. That would be mean."

Hmm...suggesting that gays are like John Edwards would be mean, she says.

You mean that comparing gays to a person who is charismatic and who fights for the rights of the common person is being mean?

You mean that comparing gays to a person who stayed with his wife during her bout with cancer (unlike conservative heroes like, say, Newt Gingrich, who served his wife with divorce papers on her death bed) is being mean to gays?

You mean that comparing gays to someone who stands up for his rights is being mean to gays?

You mean that comparing gays to someone who was willing to shuck off his limited thinking and embrace diversity is being mean to gays?

If that is so, then please keep the epithets coming by comparing me to John Edwards. Hit me with your best shot, Ann Coulter!

Ok, make sure you are sitting down for this.

Fox News has declared itself the "Home of the 2008 Presidential Election"

Still seated?

The Democratic Party of the state of Nevada is teaming up with Fox News to televise a debate amongst the Democratic presidential candidates.

Did anybody see a looking glass around here?

Nearly everybody knows that Fox News is nothing more than a mouthpiece for NeoCons, never missing the opportunity to trumpet the "Conservative" viewpoint while muffling real progressive voices. Now, they actually want to televise a Democratic presidential candidate debate. Apparently, nobody in Nevada sees the potential for funny business here.

Join me and MoveOn.org in an effort to talk some sense into the Nevada's Democratic Party and to back away--far away--and quickly--from an arrangement that will likely be a further smear directed towards Democratic presidential candidates. The political blow dealt by Fox could be enough to damage any Democratic candidate--something we can't allow to happen.

Please watch the video below--courtesy of YouTube--and then follow this link to sign the petition to be delivered to Nevada's Democratic Party. We'll all be better for it.

Job update

Special shoutout to Fausto Fernos, the co-host of the Feast of Fools Podcast, as well as the entire Fernos family.

My editorializing on the recent scandal at the Walter Reed Army Hospital.

Music today:



"Rule the World" by Podsafe Music Network artist Jason Brock (check out his podcast, The Peace Pod, as well!)



"Last Goodbye" (A capella version) by Podsafe Music Network artist Aaron



"Tired of Being Lied To" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito

Intro Music:

"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:

"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

If you have visited my blogpage, you may know that I am a fan of J.C. Hutchins' 7th Son podcast novel series. I am also happy to announce that J.C. has been interviewed for a New York Times article on podcasting.

Click here for a link to the story.

If you have not checked out this incredible serialized novel, then you owe it to yourself to go to jchutchins.net or podiobooks.com and subscribe today. As with nearly all podcast content, it is free of charge, but if you like J.C.'s work, slip him a little coin, eh?

Many congratulations go out to J.C. on this achievement!

Kilroy 2.0 was here. Kilroy 2.0 is everywhere...

Just when you think all creativity is gone from commercial, mainstream artists, a video like this comes along. This video is but one example of the creative approach the band takes to an arguably mature medium like the music video.

The name of the group is Ok, Go. The name of the song is "Here It Goes Again"

The choreography involving moving treadmills reminds me of some of the more unusual and innovative scenes from the movie musicals from the 40s and early 50s, and the symbolism of a treadmill works very well with the song lyrics. I'd love to know how much time it took to set this up, rehearse, and film.
Here's the video:



If you need further proof of this band's innovative vision, here is the video for the appropriately titled, "Do What You Want":

The audacity of some of the more extreme right-wing people never ceases to amaze me. According to this story on PlanetOut.com, Rev. Lonnie W. Latham, a minister in the Southern Baptist church has continuously advocated a resolution calling for gays and lesbians to reject their "sinful, destructive lifestyle," a position which could not be characterized as anything but anti-gay.

Now, this same Rev. Latham was subsequently busted when he asked an undercover policeman to come up to his hotel for oral sex. He was charged with lewdness, a charge which he is fighting. In fact, he has gone as far as to use the Lawrence v. Texas decision to argue that his charge should be dropped, since Lawrence declared all sodomy laws unconstitutional.

Hmm...I'll bet those "activist judges" on the Supreme Court suddenly don't seem so bad after all, do they?

I passed my state exam for life, health, and accident insurance, so I am even closer to a better-paying job!

Update on Heidi Bethune: The doctors have determined the cause of her medical issues, and she will be absolutely fine!

One year of podcasting! I posted my first episode on February 23, 2006, and I'm celebrating my anniversary.

This episode will post one day late, due to problems with my Audacity software, but I'll forgive myself!

This podcast is now being carried on a Feedburner RSS feed. The feed URL is http://feeds.feedburner.com/ThatBlueJeansGuy

I am not dropping LibSyn, so no need to change anything at this time.

Stay tuned for a big announcement concerning this podcast.

Looking back, I must recognize several podcasts which have been and continue to be influential in the evolution of this show from concept to production.

In alphabetical order they are:
Audio Attitude
Blast the Right
Calling Long Distance
CounterSpin
The Dag Show/Chilly Dilly
Daily Source Code
Deep Fabulousity
Democracy Now!
Feast of Fools
5 Minutes with Wichita Rutherford
GCN Radio
Go Rainbow Radio.com
Haunted New Jersey
I Love the Company
The InTristin Podcast
I Should Be Writing
Leftwing Nutjob
Mikeypod
Mother Jones Radio
My Gay Life (sadly, the show podfaded)
Nillo's Night
The Peace Pod
Penmachine Podcast
Podcast 411
The Podcast Underground
Porn Stars Talk with Joseph Fenity (I believe this one also podfaded)
Queerspresso
Queer Visions of Freedom
Ramble Redhead
The President's Weekly Radio Address-The Official Parody
The Slate Explainer Podcast
Starr Secrets
U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow's Podcast
Whosoever Podcast
Yeast Radio


Thanks a million!

The music has been a big part of the show, so I let it do most of the talking.

I play a new song, my twelve most favorite songs from the past year--one for each month, and give you "one to grow on" ;-)

At this time, I also want to recognize the podsafe and indie musicians who have set the mood, delivered a great message, and made this show sound great.

In alphabetical order of artist's last name or first important letter of the group, they are:

Corey Andrew
The Alice Project
The Allmighty Whispers
Amphibians
Loretta Angus
Phil Ayoub
Backward Password Institute
Belt (forgot them during the show!)
Heidi Bethune
Jakes Bitter
Ella Blame
Doug Boldt
The Broadband
Brother Love
Ayla Brown
James Brown
Natalie Brown
Captain WAM
Concetta
Alison Crowe
Jenny Dalton
Delphinium Blue
Jeff Eaton
Matthew Ebel
EL84
Beatrice Ericsson
Freedom People
Rachael Fuller
Gary
David Gielan
Kelly Goodlad
Classic Graffitti
Jacques Grant
Ray Greene
Merle Haggard
David Ippolito
Ivy League
Simon James and Derek K. Miller
John and Paul
Howard Jones
Joshua Kadison
Cassandra Kubinski
Lacuna Coil
Mark Scott LaMountain and the Blue Thunder Band.
Mark Laforme
Lascivious Biddies
Last Under the Sun
Latin All-Stars
Rik Leaf
Love = Action
John Ludi
Madly Jadly
Lori Malvey
Kelly Mueller
The Muffs
Cofield Mundi
Nadir and Iayaalis
Naked Underneath
Bree Noble
O--Yeah!
1 People Coyote
Peopod
Peter Moon Band
Podsafe For Peace
Pop Machine
Mike Previti
Puce Wallpaper
Quebb
Quinn
Radical Thought Resistance
Collin Raye
The Rays
Roadside Zoo
RoGer
The Season of Us
The Shim Shams
Willie Shutter
Joe Sibol
Somebody's Closet
David Spak
Steadman
Heather Sullivan
Sunspot
The Swim Team
Tadago Pie
Tonio
Trapped in Paradise (Susan Govali)
True Margrit
Uncle Seth
Marina V.
ZENNIA


Thanks ten million!
Music today:

"My Year on Earth" by Podsafe Music Network group Belt

"Common Ground" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito

"Peace Around the World" by Podsafe Music Network group Freedom People

"New Day (I Feel Alone)" by Podsafe Music Network group Amphibians

"Queen of Me" by Podsafe Music Network artist Natalie Brown

"Thankful" by indie musician Heidi Bethune

"Hiding Underneath" by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski

"I Know You're There" by Podsafe Music Network artist Matthew Ebel

"Let It Go" by Podsafe Music Network and Podsafe Audio.com artist Lori Malvey

"Thanks to You" by Podsafe Music Network artist Ayla Brown

"Living Inside Your Eyes" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Spak

"Amazing Grace" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Spak

"To Be an Angel" by Podsafe Music Network artist Uncle Seth

and the one to grow on:

"We Are Together" by Podsafe Music Network artist Quebb

Intro Music:

"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:

"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

(No musician pictures, since the post is so long.)

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

Cassandra Kubinski, a Podsafe Music Network artist and one of my friends on MySpace has a new CD out, and she has announced some promotional tour dates. If you are anywhere near these venues, please come out and support her. And, of course, buy her CD.

Best wishes, Cassandra!

---

Posted By: Cassandra Kubinski Hosted By:: Cassandra Kubinski e-mail When: Wednesday Feb 21, 2007 at 8:00 PM Where:: Providence RI, Hamden CT, Springfield MA the Northeast Providence, RI;Hamden CT; Springfield MA, CT 06082 United States View Map Join James and I on tour this week! Providence, RI (wed), Hamden, CT (Thurs), Springfield, MA (Fri)

It's cold outside. REALLY cold. Come in out of it for some warm coffee, warm friends, and fun music. and if you can't make it but have friends or family in these areas, please send them our way! Wed, Feb. 21 Providence, RI Tazza Cafe (250 Westminster st) open mic feature (8:45 open mic- our set 9:30) FREE, tip jar passed Thurs, Feb 22 Hamden, CT The Space (295 Treadwell St) 9 pm With The Acoustic State at 8 and Bill Carleton Band at 10 pm $10 for the night www.thespace.tk Friday, Feb 23 Springfield, MA Falcetti Music Store (1755 Boston Rd) 7 pm FREE, tip jar passed In-store CD release and signing In case you want my new record, "Hold the Sun," you can pick it up here: Hold the Sun" And grab "hiding underneath" on iTunes!" Hope to see you this week- Cassandra

I appreciate it when I get news from the artists I play on my shows. Uncle Seth is one of the bands that really gets the potential of podcasting/blogging as a marketing channel, and I am more than happy to pass along notices they send me. If you are going to be at PodCamp in Toronto, then stop in and give these musicians your support!

Thanks again to Uncle Seth for keeping me in the loop!

---

Hi there!

Uncle Seth are EXTREMELY excited to present a special showcase in association
with PodCamp Toronto this coming Saturday.

PodCamp is an "unconference", a free event for those interested in
podcasting, blogging, new media and social networking online.  We were very
happy to be a part of the very first PodCamp in Boston last year, it was an
AMAZING time!  For more information visit http://podcamptoronto.org - PodCamp
is a totally FREE event, you just have to register online.

Uncle Seth @ PodCamp Toronto
C'est What (67 Front E at Church)
with:
nurse (http://www.myspace.com/nurseband) - apparently their LAST SHOW EVER!
Sean McGaughey (http://ezfolk.com/audio/bands/600/) - fun acoustic music

Doors at 9 pm.  This is a FREE show, get there early for best seats!

In other news, we are very proud to be a part of Coverville Idol! Coverville,
as you may know, is the fantastic all cover song podcast hosted by the very
excellent Brian Ibbott. Coverville Idol gives musicians the opportunity to
submit cover songs on a certain theme. This time out the theme was all songs
from 1973. To that end Tara and I recorded a stripped down version of the
Emerson, Lake & Palmer ballad "Still... You Turn Me On" which Brian kindly
included in the show. Check it out along with the other entries:

http://coverville.com/archives/2007/02/coverville_294.html

Much like the American & Canadian Idol shows, there are judges but the real
decision makers are YOU the fans! So please check out the show and cast your
votes. Obviously we'd love for you to vote for us, but there are some other
good competitors worthy of your attention so check them out as well.

Voting and individual song downloads are on the Coverville site at:

http://coverville.com/idol/

And as usual, all your Uncle Seth news can be found at:

http://musicface.com/uncleseth/

Cheers,
- J.

File this one under "It's about time!":

According to this article, greeting card giant Hallmark will debut a set of cards designed for those moments where a person needs a greeting card, but the normal messages won't work.

Hallmark's "Journeys" line will include cards for people going through chemotherapy, dealing with depression, or facing the sudden loss of a loved one. And...(drumroll)...two of the cards will deal with a person's coming out! According to the article, the cards do not specifically mention sexual orientation, but one has the message "Be You," accompanied by a rainbow.

This is a welcome change, since cards that have dealt specifically with events like coming out or more sensitive issues have largely been absent from shelves. More specifically, designers of cards dealing with gay issues often feel the need to include a nude model or something campy. While there is nothing wrong with that type of content, there are times where something more serious and poetic is needed. Plus, there is the issue that one has to find a gay-friendly store or go online to purchase the card, and that is not always practical.

Hopefully, any store that carries Hallmark will also carry the full line of Journeys cards, and this will enable people everywhere to find that card for that special occasion.

My challenge to Hallmark is that now that they have entered this market, let's see some cards that address same-sex relationships. I am one of the people who has had to sort through too many "To My Husband, From Your Loving Wife," cards to find the one card that contains language that is neutral and which doesn't sound trite. A card that simply says "To My Partner," or the like is not too much to ask.

Let's get behind this and support Hallmark in taking this bold step forward!

As promised, here is the info about Sunspot's CD release party in Madison, WI. Best of luck, guys!

---

We are proud to announce the release of our 4th CD, entitled NEANDERTHAL !

Mark your calendar for February 23rd, 2007!  That is the night we'll be having a huge bash in our hometown of Madison, WI to celeberate this new CD.  We can't wait for you to hear it!

In addition to the special Sunspot live show that we have planned for 8:00 PM, we'll be hosting a special VIP PRE-PARTY before the show.  If you buy an Advance Ticket, you get into the party at 6:30 for free appetizers, beer (for 21+), and a bunch of other surprises.  The Advance Ticket also gets you a special Sunspot SWAG BAG that includes, among other things, the NEANDERTHAL CD and a limited edition pint glass!

Please buy your tickets now so we can plan to have enough of everything!

NEANDERTHAL CD RELEASE PARTY
Friday, February 23rd, 2007
Madison Avenue
624 University Ave.
Madison, WI
      6:30 PM VIP PRE-PARTY
      8:00 PM SUNSPOT LIVE
18+ SHOW  / Advance Tickets $20

You can get tickets from one of us or online:
http://www.sunspotomusic.com/neanderthal.php

If you have any friends who would like SUNSPOT, this will be the ultimate opportunity to show them what we're about.  PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD!

SUNSPOT
Mike Huberty, Ben Jaeger, and Wendy Lynn Staats
http://www.sunspotmusic.com
http://www.loseroftheyear.com

UPCOMING SHOWS:

02.17.2007 at Zembie's (Millenium Music Conference in Harrisburg, PA)
02.23.2007 at Madison Avenue (Madison, WI) - 18+
03.02.2007 at ELB (Rockford, IL) - ALL AGES!
03.03.2007 at Thoughts for Food (Racine, WI)

(Image courtesy of countryworld.cz)

Big congratulations to the Dixie Chicks on their Grammy(tm) sweep!

I gave out two of my Eddy Awards.

It's time for me to quit being a goody-goody and to get REAL.

David Ippolito and "The Lovely Lisa" from I Love the Company sent me a custom-made promo.

Getting ready for the Anniversary Episode next week; send me your favorite (or least favorite) moments and memories of the past year.

Music today:



"Good Bye Good Guy"by Podsafe Music Network group Sunspot



"Hiding Underneath" by Podsafe Music Network artist Cassandra Kubinski



"Tired of Being Lied To" by Podsafe Music Network artist David Ippolito

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

(All musician pictures courtesy of music.podshow.com)

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

I look back on a childhood memory of the "Land of Oz" themepark.



Former NBA star John Amaechi comes out. Thanks and congratulations!



Pastor Ted Haggard says he has been cured of his gayness and is "now fully heterosexual". We'll see...



The KKK is said to be re-emerging, due to the immigration controversy. News flash to those outside of the Southeast: they never went anywhere. They just got ignored by people tired of their ignorance.



In Memoriam: Anna Nicole Smith 1997-2007

Music today:



"The Secret Life of Boys" by Podsafe Music Network artist Delphinium Blue



"Our Truth" by Podsafe Music Network band Lacuna Coil



"Time to Say Goodbye" by Podsafe Music Network band Koala

Intro Music:



"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:



"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my NEW voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my website, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!

It seems that President Bush is getting closer and closer to emulating President Nixon, to the point that he is now proposing slashing the funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. This is a tired oft-used Republican strategy that seems to crop up every time they feel that PBS' and NPR's reporting of political news is too close to telling the truth.

Usually, we hear slogans like "PBS (NPR) is becoming too biased on the left side," which the folks at Fox News grab and run with. Then, the calls for putting more "balanced" (read, "right-biased") programming on the service. Fact is, PBS and NPR are, by design, supposed to be completely free from political influence, and the CPB was designed as a "firewall" to keep the balance in the programming.

The final tactic in the strategy involves threatening to defund the CPB. As someone who grew up with programs like Sesame Street, Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, The Electric Company, and Zoom, I can tell you with no sense of hyperbole that they made a significant impact on me. While I understand that we have many priorities the most current budget seeks to address, I refuse to accept that providing quality educational and informational programming to children and adults is not a high priority. I can understand that some may consider an educated and informed public a threat if that educated and informed public also begins (shock, horror) to think for itself. What's next? People actually challenging what they are shown and told to see if it is true? Oh, the humanity!!!!

Cutting the CPB's funding in order to keep funding the military for a failed Iraq war, possible future action against Iran, and possibly something in Venezuela is the wrong choice, and "We, the People" must exercise our sovereignty (we are the sovereigns, not the President) to preserve the important investment in our future that the CPB represents. MoveOn.org is organizing a petition to be delivered to Congress to ask them not to allow the defunding of the CPB. If you support this action, please follow this link to add your name to the petition. While you are there, please pass on the issue to people you know. Let's make a difference for the next generation!

Ok, this is an interesting concept. The guy actually wants to see how many people will call him if he posts his cellphone number on the internet. He shows no sign of stopping any time soon, so let's all give him a call, eh?


Oh, and for his sake, I hope he gets one of the sponsorships this followup talks about.



And, here is a really hot guy who seems to be quite the admirer of Scott...



You gotta love the capabilities of the internet...;-)

I'm doing this to claim my feed on Podcast Alley.

My Podcast Alley feed! {pca-e19161178e53c0d19aa2660587735608}

In this week's episode:

Still studying for the insurance exam.

I have been getting quite a few emails, comments, and MySpace messages, so I respond to several of them this week.

Now, to sweep up the names I've dropped...

Music today:

"Those Who Matter" by Podsafe Music Network band STAREWELL

"Daylight" by Podsafe Music Network band The Shakes
(Images courtesy of Podshow.com)
Intro Music:

"Deep Cycle Discharge" by Podsafe Music Network artists Simon James and Derek K. Miller

Outro Music:

"Power Inside" by Podsafe Music Network and PodsafeAudio.com group EL84

Contact info:

You can email me at thatbluejeansguy@gmail.com.

You can call my NEW voicemail at 206-984-3740.

You can also contact me by Gizmo Project at Gizmo ID thatbluejeansguy.

Visit my webpage, where you can send me an Odeo voice mail and stick a pin on my Frappr map.

While you are there, check out the links to my favorite podcasts' home pages.

Check out my page on MySpace.

Thanks for listening, and Stay Powerful!