It’s official. President Obama’s so-called charisma has jumped the shark. A Kalamazoo, Michigan high school grad took what’s now the most famous public nap in modern history. Sure Rip van Winkle and some notoriously negligent defense attorneys had their day, but You Tube wasn’t at the ready.

Think the kid will land a gig with No-Doze or Red Bull? Maybe Starbucks (no, wait, that gig’s reserved for my java junkie teddy bear, Merrie Lee). Remember, kids, this is America, where misdeeds and sloth have been known to launch more than a few infamous careers.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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If you get a chance catch “Carole King and James Taylor Live at the Troubadour.” It’s in heavy rotation on PBS this weekend. Oh, so good, even with the pledge breaks ( and the show is so good, you’ll want to ante up, even if you already made your annual contribution). They still sound–and look–great! This performance of the classic Carole wrote and JT first made famous is from the 2006 James Taylor tribute. Hope to see them live in NYC later this month.

Speaking of NYC, Justice Sonia Sotomayor was in town Friday as the housing project where she spent most of her childhood was officially re-named the Sonia Sotomayor Houses. It’s the first time the city has named a public housing project after a living person. Quite a well deserved honor for an inspirational person!

Inspiration of a different sort for all the hopeless romantics among us: Limbag rushes to the alter Saturday. The fourth Mrs. Limbaugh, Kathryn Rogers is an event planner, nearly 30 year’s the bloviator’s junior. Hey kids, true love comes in all shapes and sizes. Was it something he said or the size of his wallet? In case it’s not happily ever after, Ann Coulter is warming up in the bullpen for a shot at number five.

And Stephanie Miller, Liz Winstead and Maureen Dowd have been spotted sporting black veils. Coincidence? You tell me.

Oh, just heard: Elton John played at the “Hawaiian themed” affair. What the hell was the Rocket Man thinking? Can’t need the reported cool mil fee. Or can he? maybe EJ lost more $$$$ on “Next Fall” than he’s letting on. Let’s hope the little play that could picks up the Best Play Tony next Sunday. But Elton, really, another auction maybe, but Rush’s wedding? How can you sing while holding your nose?

Rumors are already rumbling about the shocking Gore split. Did they simply grow apart, as they said, or is there another person in the mix? It’s total speculation but Al has been known to cavort with Mama Nature. And I heard Tipper’s stepping out with an aging Heavy Metal drummer. All uncorroborated, of course.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think weekend!

aba

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Dubious RG sources report the following breaking news:

Liz Cheney leaving hubby to marry Keith Olbermann. Shotgun ceremony set for this afternoon.

An irate Sarah Palin defects the Republican Party; joins Green Party. Becomes a vegan.

Infamous “Tot Mom” Casey Anthony fires her dream team; hires new defense attorney…. Nancy Grace.

Conan O’Brien set to replace Matt Lauer on “The Today Show.” Lauer to take over for Letterman band leader Paul Schaeffer.

Donald Trump and Rosie O’Donnell feud was a hoax: the two have been sharing a seedy love nest at New York’s famed Chelsea Hotel for years. Only known photograph found in Perez Hilton’s microwave.

Michelle Bachmann and Glenn Beck crash Mensa meeting, claiming combined IQ score in high double digits.

Just in: Dr. Phil to replace Simon Cowell as judge on “American Idol” next season.

Jason Alexander loses 50 pounds in one week after Kirstie Alley raids his Jenny Craig goodie box. Mary Kate Olsen named new spokesperson.

Made you laugh, made you cry? Not sure why?

Happy April Fool’s Day, fool!
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aba

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Even his fellow GOP senators couldn’t get the guy to budge. But finally, the tone-deaf lame duck from Kentucky who nixed 200,000 unemployment extensions was pushed aside. Read more about that stunt as well as my take on the state of politics. And why–despite a simmering rage–I also have hope– in my latest News Junkie Post piece. Beyond Stunning Bunning: Still A Glimmer Of Hope in Senate While you’re there, check out a slew of other cool and informative articles and interesting writers, too.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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Welcome! RG regulars and folks who’ve wandered in: this is the new and improved home of Radio Graffiti. Stop by for my musings on pop culture and politics. I’ll probably focus more on the former, as you can find my political commentary regularly on News Junkie Post and other sites like whowillwinthe 2012election and politrix.

So from movies to music, media to literature and all the weird and wonderful characters roaming around creating a buzz ( or trying to), I’ll offer my observations, sandwiched between wry slices of life.

As always, my aim is to make RG an interactive experience. So feel free to comment, suggest and contact with stories, ideas, people & products you think deserve attention. A big thanks to Michael Brown and Betty for their creative expertise and patience in getting the new site up and running with alacrity. If you need help starting or changing your site, they’re great folks to work with. Contact Michael at  Genabit Hosting.  He’ll take good care of you!

So hold on for an exciting ride: Radio Graffiti, where pop culture and politics collide at the speed of life.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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The clever Jib Jabbers caught my fancy with this “classic” silent short. Brangelina watch your back… the First Couple could make the screen sizzle and sell their share of popcorn.

BTW:my recent unofficial, unscientific survey of blog hoppers and radio listeners, has candy beating flowers for Valentine’s Day gifts. But romantic dinners trump all. And with all his money, Donald Trump better come up with all three (rim shot optional).

All of the above are sweet treats as far as I’m concerned, though I also enjoy teddy bears, books and music. And, fyi, if you’re planning on giving your sweetheart a “deferred gift,” like say, Broadway show tickets, it’s a good idea to actually come up with the goods before the next holiday rolls around. And while you’re bestowing imaginary big ticket items, some of us would enjoy an imaginary trip to Paris. Just a suggestion.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Drive safe. Play nice. Think LOVE!

aba

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So I didn’t go to a Super Bowl party(saved myself something in the neighborhood of 4,500 unnecessary calories). I always manage to dodge those invites… not a big football fan. But had Oprah called, well, I’m pretty sure I could have summoned the interest. Kudos to both Letterman and Leno. Somehow the famous trio managed to keep the spot under wraps and eluded the paparazzi. The back story has Jay arriving last week in a faux mustache and hoodie at the Ed Sullivan Theatre. Well, done, folks. Hopefully some hatchets were buried.

I didn’t even watch the game. But I pointd my remote in CBS’ direction during the halftime show and managed to see a bit of The Who… not bad for geriatric rockers. Guess the ‘kids” are still alright.And I’m happy for the Saints who won their first Super Bowl in their 45 year history. Good, too, for the battered city of New Orleans still recovering from Katrina’s devastation.

And the commercials have gotten their money’s worth….along with the Letterman promo, my fave is the Betty White Snickers ad. Abe Vagoda get a nice little punch out of it, too. Sorry, they pulled the plug on the Betty White spot. Some legal mumbo jumbo. Oh well, hope you got a chance to catch it. In protest, think I’ll pass on the Snickers and hit the M&Ms instead. Wait, aren’t they made by the same company?

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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NEWS JUNKIE POST

Let’s never forget the “fierce urgency of now.” In honor of MLK, let’s keep that in mind when it comes to helping those suffering in Haiti and those at home working for civil rights, real health care reform, job creation, educational opportunity, environmental advocacy. etc.

As we remember Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, I decided to think about what he might say about the crisis in Haiti and the inhumane rhetoric spewed by folks like Rush & Robertson.Take a look at my latest News Junkie Post piece. And, yeah, I ask that you “Digg” and Tweet if you can. Thanks.
What Would Martin Luther King Say? | NEWS JUNKIE POST

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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Dems Give Reid a Pass | NEWS JUNKIE POST

As usual the Sunday morning talks shows gave my blood pressure a run for its money. I’m not going to waste time bemoaning ABC’s continued confounding decision to turn Liz Cheney into a pundit. I’d rather ignore the troll and hope she goes back under her bridge. What really got me, was the Democratic hypocrisy that simply wants to ignore Harry Reid’s year old racist remark. Okay, if Halperin and Heilemann didn’t out it, it wouldn’t be news. But they did and it is. Read more in my latest NewsJunkiePost piece.Please Tweet and ‘Digg.” I mean if you’re into that sort of thing. While you’re there, check out other great articles on NJP, too!Ignoring the Elephant in the Room: Dems Give Reid a Pass | NEWS JUNKIE POST

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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Sir Gumby
Originally uploaded by Worker101

Sorry to note of the passing of Art Clokey. The famed animator, who created Gumby died on January 8 at 89.

Gumby became a beloved character for many late end Boomers and Gen Xers. The loving green oddly shaped bendable “claymation” pioneer remains a cult pop culture icon today. Gumby’s distinguishing feature–his oddly curved head– was an homage to a hairdo Art’s father ( who died when Art was only nine) sported.

I loved watching Gumby and his companion horse Pokey as a kid. Yeah, I even admit to loving Davey and Goliath, the oft- lampooned Christian claymation show Art created, too. There is something so profound in the simplicity of the stories, the inherent kindness in the characters. And their creator. Art–who I had a chance to interview on a radio show some years back–was a delightful man, who conquered many obstacles, using his talents to bring joy to millions. Check out the great documentary Gumby Dharma ;released a few years ago, it offers great insights into Art’s personal struggles, passion and his spiritual journey.

And oh, what a joyous legacy he left behind.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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We’re Knockin’ on a New Decade’s Door! As the Jib Jab geniuses and a few cool cats help us usher in the New Year, I want to take a moment to thank everyone who helped me launch me into cyberspace in 2009. Gratitude goes to Ren and Susie, Betty, Sandy & Mike D–hardcore radio fans all, for nudging me to “Blog, baby, blog.” My sister Shana mentioned it once or two hundred times, too. So she deserves a hearty salutation, as well. It has been a true pleasure to re-connect with fans and connect with new friends through Radio Graffiti and its oft-neglected sister site, Scribbler’s Folly (that’s okay; SF is more evolved and doesn’t crave as much attention. But, since clients and students from my other life as a creativity coach have clamored for my wisdom–lol–SF will get some more in 2010).

And thanks to Dolores and Gilbert at News Junkie Post for taking me into their progressive and very cool fold. You can “Digg” my stories at www.newsjunkiepost.com as well as myriad other sites around the web. And “follow” my Tweets. Stay tuned, too, for new adventures in Marconi’s box.

And I wish you health and hope, wealth and joy in 2010. Oh, yeah, and no-cal chocolate that tastes like the real deal! And makes you wise and funny, kind and cute the more you eat.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

See ya next year!

aba

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YouTube – Ella Fitzgerald – Sleigh Ride

It’s a cold case already. Going on three, make it four years since someone swiped my CD copy of the classic Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas. I’ve got my list of suspects. And you better believe I’m checking it twice. The ex-radio colleague with sticky fingers who was caught “inadvertently borrowing” another Christmas collection a few years back. A boyfriend with a penchant for pawing through my CD collection. A friend with an Ella Fitzgerald fetish. They top the list. But it could be almost anyone.

Here’s the deal: I’m usually careful with my collection, but after segueing from music radio, where your show pretty much comes out of a computer nowadays to talk radio, I became accustomed to schlepping a portable library of CDS featuring everything from an array of rock tunes to novelty songs, comedy bits, and seasonal faves to use as bumpers, fills and for special features. So after a while, the contents of the tote, however shielded can be subject to the wrong hands.

And that’s what I fear happened to Ella’s genius 1960 Verve recording,a tour de force that swings through the great American songbook of holiday hits ( you won’t find any traditional hymns here). The collection is one of two seminal contemporary Christmas albums; the other, of course, is Phil Spector’s Christmas Album.

From “Sleigh Ride” to “Frosty the Snowman,” from ” Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” to “Let it Snow, Let it Snow,” Ella infuses the season with her signature jazzy vibe. Quite simply, the First Lady of Jazz is the the epitome of cool yule. And no one can sing the heartbreakingly lonely, “What are You Doing New Year’s Eve, ” with Ella’s rich, nuanced spirit.

Thanks to You Tube and lastfm.com, I got a quick Ella fix. Next year, I’ll have to break down and buy a new copy of the classic. I mean, if the culprit doesn’t come forward. Or isn’t outed by Nancy Grace.

Drive safe. Make merry. Think peace.

aba

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YouTube – George Bailey by Carolyn Sills Thanks to fellow blogger, Carolyn Sills for this original ditty. This one is so sweet and catchy, it should be an instant classic. Really, it’s that good. And the animation is a whimsical tribute to the old Fleischer cartoons of the Capra era. Give it a listen. And no matter your woes or last minute shopping pressures, you’ll think, yeah, It’s a Wonderful Life.

Just amazing what one little song can do to alter your outlook.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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YouTube – "A Merry American Christmas" by Roy Zimmerman

Merry news for all soldiers in the “War on Christmas” brigade. Santa has been released from Gitmo. Just in time to lead his communist collective of elves and reindeer, distributing free gifts to kids across the land.
Okay, so Bill O has eased up a bit on the so-called anti-Christmas paranoia. The War on Christmas may seem oh so 2005, but that hasn’t stopped South Carolina Congressman Henry Brown from introducing a resolution to “protect the sanctity of Christmas.” Like Congress isn’t a little busy these days. Brown got all hot and bothered when he discovered the Obamas’ holiday card only offered “Seasons Greetings.” Sorry, Congressman, but Pres. Bush’s 2008 greeting omitted “Christmas” too. So much for the liberal crusade against Christmas. With Joe Wilson, Mark Sanford and Brown, the parties (not to mention the IQs) in South Carolina must be rockin’

Then there’s the American Family Association, which has been making their list. And no doubt, checking it twice. CVS and Victoria Secret are naughty. Costco and Wal-Mart are nice. The biggest target this year: The Gap. Something about turtlenecks in an array of bright colors, I guess. Actually the group– which called for a two month boycott of all Gap stores back in November–is miffed because the company’s official policy is to say, “Happy Holidays.” And the Gap also gets low ho ho hos for that annoying all inclusive ad that maniacally commands: ‘Go Christmas, Go Chanukah, Go Kwanza…”

Just go. And don’t forget to say, “Merry Christmas,” as you trample over your fellow last-minute shoppers on your quest to snag that last, coveted Zhu Zhu Pet.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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YouTube – Misinformer of the Year 2009: Glenn Beck Media Matters for America called it right. This montage captures some of Beck’s biggest bloviations and critical assessments from the left and right. Congrats, Beck. You earned the dubious distinction. Here’s to the extinction of his hate-mongering show in 2010!

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Humor is a great weapon. Here the maestros at Move On take aim at Joe Lieberman.
YouTube – Joe Lieberman as a sock puppet! – Moveon.org
But let’s remember he can only continue to hold health REFORM hostage if the Senate and Pres. Obama allow it. I’m starting to think Obama ran for President because he was intimidated by ( or lacked the patience for) the legislative “sausage making.” He’s stayed so far away from the process… and now what’s left is a watered down mess that both the left and right can agree to despise. As for Lieberman: think you better see a doctor about your out-sized ego. Good thing you’ve got health coverage, Senator.

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“VOTE NO” | NEWS JUNKIE POST

Feeling frustrated by the so-called Health care “Reform” bill? Read my latest News Junkie Post piece. And maybe, call your Congressional reps. Go Howard, Go! There are lots of other cool & informative articles to check out on the site, too!

Dean’s Rx for Senate Health Bill: “VOTE NO” | NEWS JUNKIE POST

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Call this character Ebeneezer STOOGE. Greg Wiseman, the mayor of Arlington, TN, outside of Memphis, must have hit the party egg nog a little early this year. Last week the small town pol found himself in the national spotlight for some nonsense he printed on his Facebook page. Apparently miffed that ABC preempted the “Charlie Brown Christmas” special two weeks ago so it could air Pres. Obama’s Afghanistan speech, Mr. Mayor claimed Obama timed the speech with the intent to bump the beloved classic. And, oh, yeah, Wiseman also called Obama a Muslim ( which would be fine if he were, but he’s not, so get over it already). At least he didn’t bring up that silly birth certificate biz again.

And, for the record, ABC aired the Charlie Brown special last week and another showing airs tonight at 8 PM. Set those DVRS.

For its part, the town of Arlington threw its mayor under the bus and proclaimed on the town’s official website that it doesn’t agree with his views and ya all come down because Arlington is the friendliest place on earth.

Wiseman offered a lukewarm apology, called it “tongue-and-cheek humor between friends” that went too far. He’s sorry, of course, if anyone was offended. But it was just a joke. Not a funny one, but can’t hit ‘em out of the park every time, I guess, right Mr. Mayor? The comments and the apology earned him two crownings on Keith Olbermann’s “Worst Person in the World” list. Must have been a quiet week for Bill O & Beck. Don’t bother trolling Facebook, Wiseman quickly deleted his account.

Oh, in case you’re wondering, it’s pretty clear Mayor Wiseman isn’t even remotely related to those famous three Wise Men who factor into the seasonal festivities. Let’s face it, this guy’s not even smart enough to hang out with Tony Soprano.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace.

aba

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“Teabagger” came close. “Sexting” was in the running. Even “Birther” got a nomination. But when all the votes were counted, “Unfriend” proved the victor. The New American Oxford Dictionary unveiled its 2009 Word of the Year earlier this week and the newly coined word associated with social networking is the one that has the most”currency and potential longevity,” according to Christine Lindberg, Oxford’s senior lexicographer.

Listed as a verb, “Unfriend” is described as “To remove someone as a friend on a social networking site like facebook or MySpace. ex: I decided to unfriend my boss right after he fired me.

Other nominees included: “Funemployed”: taking time to pursue other interests after losing a job.

“Freemium”: Business model in which basic services are free with the aim of luring folks to pay for premium goods and services.

“Zombie Banks”: financial institutions with debts outweighing assets, but kept afloat thanks to government bail-outs.

“Paywall”: A way of blocking access to part of website, Another way to entice paying subscribers, Funny, I always thought a paywall was where all my virtual payments for my online wit and wisdom was sent. Guess, I don’t have access to it. That explains a lot.

A couple of my favs:

“Tramp Stamp”: this one’s been around a few years. So I guess it’s this year’s honorary country music nominee ( you know they always seem to nominate someone who’s been around for years as the “new voice”. Like Darius Ruker… love him and that was a great album, but c’mon, after fronting Hootie for close to two decades, how can he be new?) Sorry for the digression. The tramp stamp, you know, right, is that fetching tattoo, usually on the lower back, and usually sported by women.

“Deleb”: Dead celebrity. Think a dead celeb who makes big bucks should be called a “Red Deleb”…. as in the red….

Oh, well, it’s all word salad anyway. Indulge in the ones you find funny or useful. Toss the rest in the snail mail pail. Wasn’t that term for a traditional garbage bin, a nominee in 2000? Maybe I just made it up. Go ahead, look it up.

Drive safe. Play nice. Think peace

aba

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Move over Wall Street warriors and Gitmo detainees. Someone else is angling to cut in the H1N1 vaccination line. Santa. That’s right the Jolly One himself–or rather his emissaries — want their flu shots before all those cute, germ-infested tykes hit red velvet laps at malls across America. I kid you not. The Amalgamated Order of Real Bearded Santas (yeah, they’re for real), says their guys are more susceptible to the dreaded swine flu– and not only because of their proximity to all those sweet germ carriers. Most Santas tote their own girth and obesity may increase your risk of getting the disease and its severity. The CDC and other health honchos are “looking into the request.” In the meantime, Santas are advised to use massive amounts of hand sanitizer and take extra vitamins.

So forget the milk and cookies. This year, put out orange juice and a plate of assorted vitamins. And just to be on the safe side, you might want to leave out a box of Kleenex, too. Wouldn’t want to find any unexpected “goodies” under the tree.

Drive safe. Play nice. Sneeze into your sleeve.

aba

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