Unarmed Youth Shot by Police Caught on Three Separate Videos

This afternoon as I was browsing the Internet when I came across a story about a protest march in Oakland that became violent; one hundred people were arrested. I was shocked and confused as to how I missed this on the morning news. Surely this would have received some mention; perhaps not on the regurgitated local news but some national coverage. I watched the morning news but perhaps I missed it refilling my coffee cup. I just finished searching for some kernel, some mention, of what transpired on my local stations and there is nothing.

On New Year's day Oscar Grant, a 22-year-old supermarket worker, was fatally shot in the back while unarmed and handcuffed on the ground on a BART station platform. There are three separate videos of the shooting; the first confiscated by BART police, the second uncovered by the local news, and finally a third perspective that surfaced days after the murder of Oscar Grant.

I am deeply troubled and disturbed by how this tragedy has not received more coverage by news outlets, including CNN. I was inundated with information regarding the slaying of 15-year-old Alexandros Grigoropoulos, which was the catalyst for the riots throughout Greece. I even mentioned the slain youth in a previous post.

How is this travesty not more newsworthy? How many hours of coverage did Caylee Anthony receive from national and local outlets? I've seen that cretin Anne Coulter plastered on the news with her latest "PR" stunt for the past 36 hours.

Damn, I feel like I was just sucker punched.

Slumdog Millionaire is a Winner

Slumdog Millionaire is a winner; it is story telling at its best, easily one of best films of 2008. The story is heroic, romantic, tragic, but also one of conquest. The cast is outstanding; I can't recall when I have seen such incredible child actors. The story spans approximately 15 years and the main characters are played by two to three children representing various ages.

The story is clever and quick paced; there were occasions that I literally slid to the edge of my seat in anticipation. The film also provides a view into the caste system still prevalent in India's culture. It is such an important film to see, it is the triumph of the human spirit against insurmountable odds.

A standout in the phenomenal caste is the Freida Pinto, her beauty is ethereal. I found myself thinking that she has to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her role was far from glamorous but her natural beauty could not be subdued which also is a core element of the story.

Did I mention that this is based on a true story? Take your Lover, your parent, your best friend, but you must see this movie.

Muslim arrested over scarf

Shoe Thrower Gathers Support

The Baghdad reporter Muntadhar al-Zaidi, now famous for throwing his shoes at President Bush in an attempt to humilate him, is garnering support throughout the world. He yelled "This is your farewell kiss, you dog!" to Bush as he took aim at the President. Throughout the Arab world protestors have taken to the streets and airways demanding al-Zaidi's release.

His supporters are not limited to the Arab world. Bush is vilified throughout the modern world for his actions, policies and invasion of Iraq. In March of 2007 I was in Rio de Janiero when protesters threw rocks and bottles at his limo and demonstrated in the streets where ever he spoke. Riot police were the only thing that keep the protesters from their intended target.

The symbolism of throwing the shoes is now being lost as it has become a joke and ammunition for late night comedians. al-Zaidi's intent was to bring to the forefront the tens of thousands of Iraqis that have died in Bush's war.

I read a terrific article this morning, check it out: http://riverscrap.typepad.com/home/2008/12/iraqi-shoethrower-steals-limelight-from-suicide-bombers.

A Jihad for Love (2007) - Parvez Sharma

A Jihad for Love (2007)

In a time, when Islam is under tremendous attack-from within and without-'A Jihadfor Love' is a daring documentary-filmed in twelve countries and nine languages. Muslim gay filmmaker Parvez Sharma has gone where the silence is strongest, filming with great risk in nations where government permission to make this film was not an option. A Jihad for Love is the first-ever feature-length documentary to explore the complex global intersections of Islam and homosexuality. With unprecedented access and depth, Sharma brings to light the hidden lives of gay and lesbian Muslims from countries like Iran, Pakistan, Egypt, Turkey, France, India, and South Africa. The majority of gay and lesbian Muslims must travel a lonely and often dangerous road. In many nations with a Muslim majority, laws based on Quranic interpretations are enforced by authorities to monitor, entrap, imprison, torture and even execute homosexuals. Even for those who migrate to Europe or North America and adopt Western personae of "gay," the relative freedoms of new homelands are mitigated by persistent racial profiling and intensified state surveillance after the terrorist attacks in New York, London and Madrid. As a result, many gay and lesbian Muslims end up renouncing their religion. But the real-life characters of A Jihad for Love aren't willing to abandon a faith they cherish despite its flaws. Instead, they struggle to reconcile their ardent belief with the innate reality of their being. The international chorus of gay and lesbian Muslims brought together by A Jihad for Love doesn't seek to vilify or reject Islam, but rather negotiate a new relationship to it. In doing so, the film's extraordinary characters point the way for all Muslims to move beyond the hostile, war-torn present, toward a more hopeful future. As one can imagine, it was a difficult decision for the subjects to participate in the film due to the violence they could face. However, those who have come forward to tell their stories feel this film is too important for 1.4 billion Muslims and non-Muslims around the world for them to say no. They are willing to take the risk in their quest to lay equal claim to their profoundly held faith. "A Jihad for Love' is produced by Sandi DuBowski (Director of Trembling Before G-d) in association with ZZDF-Arte Channel 4, and LOGO.

Les personnes que Parvez Sharma présente dans son film documentaire sont des musulmans croyants et ils sont gays. Dans la plupart de leurs pays d’origine, ils font de ce fait partie d’une minorité opprimée, une minorité dont on ne parle pas, victime de persécutions et d’humiliations, exclue de la vie publique.

Original languages:(English Arabic Hindi Persian Urdu French) hardsubbed with French. TV ripped from Arte "the intellectual" TV channel in France.

http://www.foriegnmoviesddl.com/2008/12/jihad-for-love-2007-parvez-sharma.html

http://rapidshare.com/files/173334926/JHL.part1.rar
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password:accatone

"This is your farewell kiss, you dog!"

BANNED Pres. Bush Interview

This is a video, found by albelnox33175, of an Irish TV interview with President Bush. This interview was not shown on American television, you'll see why.

Albuquerque police want ad - 'snitches' wanted

In a time of economic recession, desperation, and anxiety a want ad appeared in a local Albuquerque newspaper. Snitches wanted, both previous arrest records and drug use were acceptable.

I have two problems with this tactic, the first being the use of the word 'snitch" in the advertisement. "Police Informant" would be my preference, call them what they are, not an accepted slang term for the ignorant masses. Citizens that refuse to accept violent crime, gang violence, drug dealing on the streets, and criminal retaliation are not "snitches". They are common sensed individuals who take a stand for the communities even though they are often targeted by the criminal elements.

My other problem is by endorsing the concept of "snitch" and paying for information, how credible is it? I have respect for neighborhood activist that try and make their communities a safer place for the elderly, women, and children. I am ambivalent towards anyone that would sell out another for a price and not a moral of ethical code. However it is the sum result that matters.
Too often screams in the night are accompanied by individuals turning down their televisions and turning off the lights while they peep from their windows. How many families must we see pleading on the evening news for someone to step forth, someone who could have perhaps saved a life by dialing "911". If more of us would respond to the cries of help, that are too often ignored, we would not be seeking as many witnesses to murder, rape, and homicide. Crime is only tolerated by criminals and the disenfranchised.

There is a segment of popular culture that promotes "don't be a snitch". While they may influence a segment of the younger unwashed masses, they do not influence their parents or grandparents. Many of these people are victims of fear, first and foremost, others simply accept the status qua and feel powerless to change it.


With the election of President-Elect Barack Obama countless millions believe that their voice was heard. For once their vote counted and change was the result. Lets take that empowerment and change the world in which we live. Crime can only run rampant if we allow it to do so.

"Prop 8 - The Musical" starring Jack Black, Jenifer Lewis, Maya Rudolph, Neil Patrick Harris, Kathy Najimy, and many more...

href="http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/85595" title="by FOD Team">"Prop 8 - The Musical" starring Jack Black, John C. Reilly, and many more... by Jack Black

Riots in the Streets

Living in former “Murder Capitol of the US” is a sad reality. Philadelphia residents suffered 391 murders in 2007, the highest rate per 100,000 residents among the nation’s 10 largest cities. It is a demoralizing banner and a shameful indication of how violence is simply a part of life in my urban world.

Last week I watched the Greek Riots in amazement and awe. I could hardly believe that a shooting death of a teenager sparked national protest and chaos. I was previously unaware that Greece is one of Europe’s safest nations. Their criminal notoriety is limited to pickpockets, drugs, and gigolos preying on tourists.

The slain 15 year old, Alexandros Grigoropoulos, has become a national hero of sorts. He is the martyr for police abuse, and a political system weakened by scandal. Public demonstration in fairly commonplace in Greece, the government is reportedly full of corruption. However the current situation eclipses anything Greeks have experienced in decades. The damage is reported to be over 1.3 billion dollars US.

Surely I don’t want to believe that Greeks hold human life in higher esteem than Americans. I prefer to believe that we are simply desensitized to violence until it hits close to home. We as a culture emulate prison culture, walking with our pants hanging like we are in cellblock D. Propagating “don’t snitch” as a mantra for the weak minded.

We have genocide in Darfur and daily shootings across the US, yet one boy’s death can unite a nation of youth. How do we fix this?

R.I.P. ODETTA, the "Goddess"

Odetta, our American folk music Legend who moved audiences and influenced fellow musicians for a half-century, has died. The Grammy Nominee and recipient of the National Medal of the Arts was 77 when she passed away yesterday, Tuesday. in New York.

Twelve American presidents owned slaves; eight presidents did while they lived in the White House.

Dana Summers

John Sherffius

Marshall Ramsey

La Cucaracha by Lalo Alcaraz

Model MAX PHILISAIRE

Haitian born Max Philisaire is a Veteran, Personal Trainer, and Actor. You may remember him from one of several music videos. He also has a 2009 calendar for sale

Trapped In Paradise

Thai anti-government protesters shut down Bangkok's second airport on Thursday, further crippling the kingdom as tourists scrambled to leave and fears grew the crisis was deepening.

Below is an email from my oldest friend, who was also my first love, he is trapped in Thailand.

"Guest what? I'm stuck in Thailand! Yes, my sister and I were scheduled to depart today from Phuket via Bangkok and then through Taipei into LAX. Since the takeover of the airport in BKK, we've been in the south but all flights through Bangkok that had not been re-routed are cancelled. Thousands are stranded.

We're working with out travel agency's representative to get out through Malaysia on 12/3 and perhaps then onto LAX via Taipei, but so far only Malaysia destination is certain. We're safe and yes, we are stuck, albeit in paradise. We would like it to become less cloudy, but that hasn't stopped us from getting cheap Thai massages daily, fending off the sellers of every cheap trinket, or enjoying the beach.

I hope all is well with you and I hope you enjoyed the holiday and are relaxing and taking care of yourself. I will speak with you soon and I have my laptop so I am in touch and making the best of Paradise!

Love,Marc

-- "I'll admit I may have seen better days, but I'm still not to be had for the price of a cocktail, like a salted peanut."Margo Channing (Bette Davis)All About Eve - 1950"

The California Supreme Court will revisit the issue of same-sex marriage

The California Supreme Court agreed to hear legal challenges to Proposition 8, the voter-approved ballot initiative that amends the constitution to end same-sex marriage. Oral arguments aren't expected until March. For the time being, the court refused to grant a stay.

While many Californians may not believe that same-sex couples have a "right" to marry, the Californian Supreme Court said they do in its landmark marriage case in May.

Unemployment Compensation Extended up to 13 weeks

Before leaving for Peru, President George W. Bush signed into law an extension on unemployment benefits for those who have run out, or are about to run out. This actually is the second extension that Bush has signed during this economic crisis. The extension is 13 weeks in states with an unemployment rate in excess of 6%, otherwise the extension is for a term of 7 weeks.

Finally something for the average man in the time of corporate bailouts. It was rumored that this is one of several requests that President Elect Barack Obama discussed in their joint meeting just over a week ago.

Another hot topic is the Colombian Trade agreement that Bush favors signing before leaving office. Obama and the UN are both concerned with the atrocities carried out against the civilian population.