Heard a discussion concerning that movie and the Robert Carradine character who has sex with a passed out cheerleader. A lady considered it rape because the nerd wore a mask and mislead the girl thinking it was her jock boyfriend. She used a term of "defacto something "rape or it was something else. Then, I chimed in saying the point of the movie was to show that all fraternities are the same but that brain status wins over brawn status when it comes to rape and getting the girl.
I remember a scene with Jodie Foster in Accused at the bar when she got raped by these burly, blue-collar guys. Yet, she lead them on with her dress and her attitude of wanting them initially but she then said no. On the witness stand, she seemed very strong with conviction. She won because of the underdog manner of how she came across. The point is: no is no.
Now, switch the scene to an office or a library. Jodie probably is wearing a sweater, maybe some slacks, jeans, a skirt, or clothes in professional manner. Maybe, she has some sass to her step and an attitude. She maybe teasing them or leading them on with a smile. John Hinckley? no. He is a lone wolf. But how about a nerd who hangs around with his own nerd circle of friends. Big Bang Theory? Who do you feel sorry for, the nerds or the girl? Think about that.
That is why you have a fraternity. I remember when I resisted in taking Honors in subjects or go to advanced class in high school and college. The counselor or teacher would say you are no different than anybody else. I know why, now. A few years back, I came across this buxom blond and started talking. She talked about how smart Indians are and about me marrying one. Angrily, I asked her why don't you marry one? She said something about them being awkward, wouldn't recognize who is one, or where to find one. I told her go to Georgia Tech and ask one. She kept saying, yeah, but and all. "Ding, ding, ding" went in my head and the scene from "Accused" went came up except it was nerdy, Indian guys and that girl laying on the table at a computer lab. I don't know if that happened but I knew that's what she thought of their potential.
Now, she thought of me as the sweet lone wolf but nonetheless a wolf to be wary. However, nerdy Indians in a group scared her more because she would get the blame because they appear smaller and harmless. Likewise, they got the well-earned 3degrees (nothing is given makes it more appealing). I have talked to strippers and therapists. They all say, they are nice individually but in a group, look out below.
Yet, who blames Soon Yi? I don't like writing these kind of things but for my Indian sisters, related or not. Its damn important for me. Go to Chennai, India or Tamilnadu countryside, women walk in pairs with arms in a sling at street corners whether its light or dark. Regardless of the danger factor. But in "Westernized facilities", they are by themselves like clubs, hotels, colleges, shops, and places that require English. A false sense of security prevails because they are supposedly "civilized." Some have no choice to be alone but those who do......
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Chris Evert's bitch (Redux--Is that the right spelling)
What all this outrage with Rick Sanchez and the suicide of a Rutgers U. student not to mention Dr. Laura on my part, I can't help wonder if I should put my religion as Christian Dependent Hindu on my facebook page. Yes, you can make high marks from your village, not covet someone's money or wife, and have an educated family. But since I'm in city, I have to know a spatter of Christianity. I know Christianity but not enough to leave Christians behind. But I can talk Christian, walk Christian, and laugh Christian. Because Anglo-Christianity is a funny religion.
Enough of Amitabh Bachchan, when it comes to religion, I consider myself one. Why? Easy. So, I can be competitive but I don't have to convert. Just lose to Chris Evert and be happy for the rest of your life. You can be rich, succesful or just pathetic. But underneath that, lies my phonies. I actually want to win and conquer but I can't. Ah, Ah. (Laugh people, c'mon). I'm must have some white in my genes but I'm not Sandy Koufax (how did he strikeout Mantle, Maris and Pepitone with ease?) or Arthur Ashe (how did he beat Jimmy Connors?). Maybe, you need to marry a Christian (an Anglican one) like Hank Greenberg or Yassir Arafat did to deal with pressure issues.
What did I do, blame your own, blame others, bully others, or help others? No, you look the other way when you are feeling left out.
Blair est puella. I remember that line written by my exploratory class in 8th grade. Homophobic, yeah. I wasn't for him or against but I looked away and joined in at times with those phobes with giggles and smirks. I made references to Eddie Murphy's "Delirious." Fitting in but trying to look reluctant. A girl named Amy Ross stuck up for him in math and here I was complaining about being an outsider to her and she befriended for me. But she scolded me too and said that he is going to commit suicide, if I didn't do something. I don't know what happened to him but I don't think it was all good. The taunts continued till he left as well as when he left. I looked away.
Oh, Lord Byron or was that Bharin before? My mind is so narrow.
Considering the consideration which became an ultimatum, I became Chris Evert's bitch and got out. You can tell that Vijay Merchant or Hazare! Likewise, to Wassim Raja and Bari! Because that match wasn't really that important compared to the one in Melbourne City or Wankede stadium. Yet, I didn't consider the consequences, very cafefully from that time to now and still don't. In this crease, action speaks louder than my words.
*** references from Amitabh Bachchan dialogue from Namak Hallal (1982). Not intention to be plagirized for distribution.
Enough of Amitabh Bachchan, when it comes to religion, I consider myself one. Why? Easy. So, I can be competitive but I don't have to convert. Just lose to Chris Evert and be happy for the rest of your life. You can be rich, succesful or just pathetic. But underneath that, lies my phonies. I actually want to win and conquer but I can't. Ah, Ah. (Laugh people, c'mon). I'm must have some white in my genes but I'm not Sandy Koufax (how did he strikeout Mantle, Maris and Pepitone with ease?) or Arthur Ashe (how did he beat Jimmy Connors?). Maybe, you need to marry a Christian (an Anglican one) like Hank Greenberg or Yassir Arafat did to deal with pressure issues.
What did I do, blame your own, blame others, bully others, or help others? No, you look the other way when you are feeling left out.
Blair est puella. I remember that line written by my exploratory class in 8th grade. Homophobic, yeah. I wasn't for him or against but I looked away and joined in at times with those phobes with giggles and smirks. I made references to Eddie Murphy's "Delirious." Fitting in but trying to look reluctant. A girl named Amy Ross stuck up for him in math and here I was complaining about being an outsider to her and she befriended for me. But she scolded me too and said that he is going to commit suicide, if I didn't do something. I don't know what happened to him but I don't think it was all good. The taunts continued till he left as well as when he left. I looked away.
Oh, Lord Byron or was that Bharin before? My mind is so narrow.
Considering the consideration which became an ultimatum, I became Chris Evert's bitch and got out. You can tell that Vijay Merchant or Hazare! Likewise, to Wassim Raja and Bari! Because that match wasn't really that important compared to the one in Melbourne City or Wankede stadium. Yet, I didn't consider the consequences, very cafefully from that time to now and still don't. In this crease, action speaks louder than my words.
*** references from Amitabh Bachchan dialogue from Namak Hallal (1982). Not intention to be plagirized for distribution.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
The Book of Ruth
I was looking at the Youtube comments of Ann Wilson from the band, Heart. The video was from 1976 showing a lean version of Ann who in recent years has become fat. She had surgery to reduce her weight. A comment mentioned about how great she looked then compared to now. Then, you had others who thinks she looks great being fat. Finally, you have others who say talent is more important than looks.
My take is this: certain women or people have a sexual charisma. It is innate. The attraction of the unknown. Remember school, where guys would fight over an ugly, skinny, girl with a washboard chest or gawk at this cafeteria worker with big frame glasses, built like Miss Piggy but quiet. I remember this guy telling me, "yeah, but she is the type you want to .....
Now, there is some good-looking women who have it. But tell me, Jennifer Lopez is the only best looking Latina with a butt in New York much less the world? Yet, everybody loved her during the late 90's and early 2000. She's had it but now has lost it. Now, ugly guys can have the charisma well into their 80's but very few women do with some exceptions. That is because they get labeled as sluts, subjected to smear campaigns, and rumors. Therefore, most women come off as uptight, rigid, and straight-laced dependento with a dorky husband.
Just because they are happily married, some don't lose or others get it while they are married. Davis Love's wife was subject of rumors for many years but it hasn't diminished her appeal. Even though, she is happily married to Davis with two kids. I'm not talking about the female who stalkers, lone-wolf predators, and other tragic stuff like. I'm talking about gatherings at vacations, parties, meetings, and etc. Who does everyone gravitate to or the one that other women are jealous of?
Example: A few years ago, I volunteered at a Public Access TV station. The show featured this lady who was VP of a power company. She was a nice, Christian lady with a family. She was in her late 30's, cute and conservative with her looks. Most guys would have been jealous. However, her positive energy got the guys to be "chipper." The television crew of me, another guy, and this couple gawked at her every word except for the steaming wife. Her husband was smiling, trying not to laugh. When VP mentioned that she had a house-husband, the wife went through the roof. She mentioned a story about another career woman with a less income husband, having affairs. LOL. The lady had it.
Women with sexual charisma come in all shapes and sizes. Back to Ann, I don't care if she is fat or not but I don't like how she got defensive with her size. She didn't need the looks because she had the charimsa. But those record companies and tabloids got to her head. Maybe if she went to a another country where they appreciate size and charisma, she would have felt better. Maybe that is the issue. Arturo!
My take is this: certain women or people have a sexual charisma. It is innate. The attraction of the unknown. Remember school, where guys would fight over an ugly, skinny, girl with a washboard chest or gawk at this cafeteria worker with big frame glasses, built like Miss Piggy but quiet. I remember this guy telling me, "yeah, but she is the type you want to .....
Now, there is some good-looking women who have it. But tell me, Jennifer Lopez is the only best looking Latina with a butt in New York much less the world? Yet, everybody loved her during the late 90's and early 2000. She's had it but now has lost it. Now, ugly guys can have the charisma well into their 80's but very few women do with some exceptions. That is because they get labeled as sluts, subjected to smear campaigns, and rumors. Therefore, most women come off as uptight, rigid, and straight-laced dependento with a dorky husband.
Just because they are happily married, some don't lose or others get it while they are married. Davis Love's wife was subject of rumors for many years but it hasn't diminished her appeal. Even though, she is happily married to Davis with two kids. I'm not talking about the female who stalkers, lone-wolf predators, and other tragic stuff like. I'm talking about gatherings at vacations, parties, meetings, and etc. Who does everyone gravitate to or the one that other women are jealous of?
Example: A few years ago, I volunteered at a Public Access TV station. The show featured this lady who was VP of a power company. She was a nice, Christian lady with a family. She was in her late 30's, cute and conservative with her looks. Most guys would have been jealous. However, her positive energy got the guys to be "chipper." The television crew of me, another guy, and this couple gawked at her every word except for the steaming wife. Her husband was smiling, trying not to laugh. When VP mentioned that she had a house-husband, the wife went through the roof. She mentioned a story about another career woman with a less income husband, having affairs. LOL. The lady had it.
Women with sexual charisma come in all shapes and sizes. Back to Ann, I don't care if she is fat or not but I don't like how she got defensive with her size. She didn't need the looks because she had the charimsa. But those record companies and tabloids got to her head. Maybe if she went to a another country where they appreciate size and charisma, she would have felt better. Maybe that is the issue. Arturo!
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Defining The New Wth The Old
In today's game, former players complain about bad positioning and tackling on defense in football. My inclination is always to defend the "today's player" and see the view of the past player. In researching some of the former players, I noticed they played both offense and defense from little league to high school. They were starters and stars in college on both sides of the ball. My question is: did playing offense in college helped them become better defensive players in the pros? Today's players learn either offense or defense but never both with some exceptions.
NFL legends like Dick Butkus, Jack Pardee, Ray Nitschke, Chuck Bednarik, and Lee Roy Jordan were linebackers who played offense as well from elementary school till college. Pardee and Nitschke played fullback in college while Bednarik, Butkus, and Jordan played center. With the exception of Bednarik, these players became defensive specialists in the pros which gave them advantages concerning positioning, tendency situations, and movement. For instance, is the receiver, running back, or quarterback timid, injured, or could not move to a certain area? Likewise, each player broke down the offense and reacted to the situation, accordingly. In essence, they knew when and how to make the tackle before the snap of the ball.
Due to this knowledge and ability, most linebackers in that period called their own plays with the exception of Lee Roy Jordan. When he played for the Dallas Cowboys, his defensive coach, Ernie Stautner called the plays. Stautner studied opponents offenses and tendencies from the week leading up to the game by film. Likewise, he set up a computer program on what teams did in situations on certain downs whether they ran or passed the football. But in a playoff game against the 49ers, Lee Roy saw something in the backfield in what appeared to be a running play but decided it was a pass play and set up the defense over Stautner's objections. The result was an interception to win the game.
The media of the time said, it was natural instincts and Lee Roy himself didn't know why he made that assumption. A close examination reveals that Lee Roy studied film like his coach. Yet, it was his experience as a center in college that helped him looked for tendencies and the confidence to make decisions. Considering that eleven other guys are at the line of scrimmage, Lee Roy noticed how a 49er running back kept his hand down during runs and on pass plays, lifted his fingers slightly before the snap of the ball. Hence, the decision to call pass and the ensuing interception.
The question becomes whether today's specialists would make that play or be in position to make that play? Should we expect them to do so when they are specialized to play one part of the line? I defend today's players but understand the frustration of past players. The blame should go to those who put emphasis on player specialization instead of player development which starts in elementary school through college. If it wasn't for development, yesterday's players might as well be today's players.
NFL legends like Dick Butkus, Jack Pardee, Ray Nitschke, Chuck Bednarik, and Lee Roy Jordan were linebackers who played offense as well from elementary school till college. Pardee and Nitschke played fullback in college while Bednarik, Butkus, and Jordan played center. With the exception of Bednarik, these players became defensive specialists in the pros which gave them advantages concerning positioning, tendency situations, and movement. For instance, is the receiver, running back, or quarterback timid, injured, or could not move to a certain area? Likewise, each player broke down the offense and reacted to the situation, accordingly. In essence, they knew when and how to make the tackle before the snap of the ball.
Due to this knowledge and ability, most linebackers in that period called their own plays with the exception of Lee Roy Jordan. When he played for the Dallas Cowboys, his defensive coach, Ernie Stautner called the plays. Stautner studied opponents offenses and tendencies from the week leading up to the game by film. Likewise, he set up a computer program on what teams did in situations on certain downs whether they ran or passed the football. But in a playoff game against the 49ers, Lee Roy saw something in the backfield in what appeared to be a running play but decided it was a pass play and set up the defense over Stautner's objections. The result was an interception to win the game.
The media of the time said, it was natural instincts and Lee Roy himself didn't know why he made that assumption. A close examination reveals that Lee Roy studied film like his coach. Yet, it was his experience as a center in college that helped him looked for tendencies and the confidence to make decisions. Considering that eleven other guys are at the line of scrimmage, Lee Roy noticed how a 49er running back kept his hand down during runs and on pass plays, lifted his fingers slightly before the snap of the ball. Hence, the decision to call pass and the ensuing interception.
The question becomes whether today's specialists would make that play or be in position to make that play? Should we expect them to do so when they are specialized to play one part of the line? I defend today's players but understand the frustration of past players. The blame should go to those who put emphasis on player specialization instead of player development which starts in elementary school through college. If it wasn't for development, yesterday's players might as well be today's players.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Observations in Coaching Interactions
My favorite part in watching a basketball game is to see how coaches communicate during timeouts. The brains of these coaches work quickly to come up with a play or an idea without them moving a single step. You see them rubbing their chin, writing on the clipboard, and hovering each other without muttering a syllable. Four types of coaching personalities that I notice: a dictator with a a messenger staff that answer to him; a star coach with a subordinates staff who know their roles; a leader who lets others shine in crucial moments; or an intense buddy system where one is looking out for the other.
Media likes to get on or talk about players who are selfish and self-centered in all sports. But I remember a quote from former coach, Al McGuire: "A team should be an extension of a coach's personality." For instance, Orlando's, Stan Van Gundy does not communicate with his assistants. He says, they follow. He does all the coaching and his staff just sit there and listen during timeouts. Yet, his team got to the finals because of his attitude in believing that he can win. However in the NBA finals, his players in close games took bad shots at crucial moments. Stan lashed out on his staff and the players but he didn't lash out on himself. To me, Van Gundy lost faith in himself. I mean, how did the players become so selfish so quickly?
On the other hand, coach Doc Rivers communicated with his assistants from the beginning of the season with the 2008 Celtics. Doc got his assistants to share the pressure of coaching throughout the season. Sometimes, they made good decisions and bad decisions. At playoff time, they reacted better and made clutch decisions at crucial times. Despite a close call in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks, the Celtics responded to playoff pressure because they trusted the head coach and his assistants to come up ready in all situations instead of expecting one lead coach to deal with all situations.
Phil Jackson's team's always seem to win on the teamwork concept of coaches but Phil seems to be more of a star than a leader. It reflects on the court. Michael and the Bulls. Kobe/Shaq and the Lakers. Now just Kobe. He gets the right coaches and let them do their jobs in a subordinate manner. He always seems to be wanting to make all the decisions so he can get the credit and glory. I'm bothered by Jackson's stubbornness in his losses in 2004 and in 2008 NBA finals of not trying to defend the pick n roll by going zone. I couldn't understand why his assistants didn't get him to adjust his defensive philosophy but then I realized that it was "his way or the highway" persona when it came to making adjustments. Can't argue with 10 championships under his reign.
On the other hand, winning and wins-losses are reflected on the head coach not on the assistants. Likewise if a great player is injured, it really doesn't matter. But if you don't have many star players but players who just work hard together like buddies. Jerry Sloan does a great job with his buddy system of assistant Phil Johnson in Utah. They each know what the other is thinking and react the same way. Both are very tense in every game but can keep each other in check without burning each other out. Another example is Larry Brown and his assistant coach brother, Herb of the Charlotte Bobcats. When Larry has Herb as his assistant, they have been to the NBA finals and won a championship in 2004 with Detroit. The result is players who play hard for each other with intensity.
During timeouts, I look to see how the players respond to their coach. For instance, do I see a coach exude the "I'm holier than you" or "I'm the messiah and I'll die for you" attitude when talking to players? Likewise, do players turn their heads away or feeling confused about what the coach has to say? In the next instance, do assistant coaches either step in or stay in their seats, looking at the court? Finally, do coaches communicate to each other when team is going well or when they go bad. Maybe, a little bit of both? There is no wrong way to coach but as Al McGuire said, "A team should be an extension of a coach's personality."
Media likes to get on or talk about players who are selfish and self-centered in all sports. But I remember a quote from former coach, Al McGuire: "A team should be an extension of a coach's personality." For instance, Orlando's, Stan Van Gundy does not communicate with his assistants. He says, they follow. He does all the coaching and his staff just sit there and listen during timeouts. Yet, his team got to the finals because of his attitude in believing that he can win. However in the NBA finals, his players in close games took bad shots at crucial moments. Stan lashed out on his staff and the players but he didn't lash out on himself. To me, Van Gundy lost faith in himself. I mean, how did the players become so selfish so quickly?
On the other hand, coach Doc Rivers communicated with his assistants from the beginning of the season with the 2008 Celtics. Doc got his assistants to share the pressure of coaching throughout the season. Sometimes, they made good decisions and bad decisions. At playoff time, they reacted better and made clutch decisions at crucial times. Despite a close call in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks, the Celtics responded to playoff pressure because they trusted the head coach and his assistants to come up ready in all situations instead of expecting one lead coach to deal with all situations.
Phil Jackson's team's always seem to win on the teamwork concept of coaches but Phil seems to be more of a star than a leader. It reflects on the court. Michael and the Bulls. Kobe/Shaq and the Lakers. Now just Kobe. He gets the right coaches and let them do their jobs in a subordinate manner. He always seems to be wanting to make all the decisions so he can get the credit and glory. I'm bothered by Jackson's stubbornness in his losses in 2004 and in 2008 NBA finals of not trying to defend the pick n roll by going zone. I couldn't understand why his assistants didn't get him to adjust his defensive philosophy but then I realized that it was "his way or the highway" persona when it came to making adjustments. Can't argue with 10 championships under his reign.
On the other hand, winning and wins-losses are reflected on the head coach not on the assistants. Likewise if a great player is injured, it really doesn't matter. But if you don't have many star players but players who just work hard together like buddies. Jerry Sloan does a great job with his buddy system of assistant Phil Johnson in Utah. They each know what the other is thinking and react the same way. Both are very tense in every game but can keep each other in check without burning each other out. Another example is Larry Brown and his assistant coach brother, Herb of the Charlotte Bobcats. When Larry has Herb as his assistant, they have been to the NBA finals and won a championship in 2004 with Detroit. The result is players who play hard for each other with intensity.
During timeouts, I look to see how the players respond to their coach. For instance, do I see a coach exude the "I'm holier than you" or "I'm the messiah and I'll die for you" attitude when talking to players? Likewise, do players turn their heads away or feeling confused about what the coach has to say? In the next instance, do assistant coaches either step in or stay in their seats, looking at the court? Finally, do coaches communicate to each other when team is going well or when they go bad. Maybe, a little bit of both? There is no wrong way to coach but as Al McGuire said, "A team should be an extension of a coach's personality."
Monday, October 19, 2009
The Talent show
This tour was about to end with the the student talent show. It took place at the Falany Performing Arts Center. The acoustics of that place was awesome. The performers were magnificent. Unfortunately, the auditorium was not filled to capacity because there was an accident on Georgia Hwy 140 which caused traffic to be backed off and eventually, blocked off (drives had to take alternate routes). The organizers tried to wait it out, hoping traffic would improve and that people would eventually get here. But it didn't and the show started at about 7:30 p.m. from the noted 7 p.m. start.
I sat with Mr. McGarrity in the middle row upfront but he wasn't sitting in his chair for long. He was moving around and about, taking pictures up close while in action with the digital. Every time he got up, the seat would flap and flutter with that sound. Man, I thought some of the performers were going to get distracted but to their credit, they were professional. There were three judges looking in, one being my former counselor, Dr. Beth Russell. She sat in the front row.
Now the talents. You had a singing duet between the beauty girl and gawky, shy boy. It was decent and both put the effort and the work in but the girl seemed more comfortable and the guy kind of leaned toward her for support. He was too timid to look at her when they finished the song but the girl wasn't (Whats this story about the princess and the frog). Beauty girl dominated. Next was the dancing duo who performed a big band jazz tune. The MC was supposed to perform with this girl but he got hurt so he says. Eventually, another guy performed with her. I have to say this dude was awesome and fluid. He performed without thinking, spontaneously and energetically. On the other hand, dancing girl was watching her steps and tried to make sure that she didn't step on his. She didn't seem comfortable. However at the end, they finished off well.
Next you had a solo dancer and a singer. The dancer did a hop-hop routine which I thought was the best of the dance routines but unfortunately she kept looking up toward the audio booth instead of the audience. It was as if she was in a zone and didn't want to lose her groove that would derail her. She was cute too with that black outfit but didn't get much applause, though. After intermission, this female singer came in and sang "My Redeemer" which really made my feet tap. She did pitch off (her voice) here and there. However, I thought up to this point, she was the best performer because she seemed calm, looked to the audience, and performed the song well.
Piano man came. He wrote his own song but was visibly very nervous. He couldn't even hit the piano. He played "Chop Sticks" for laughs and said no, he didn't write the song. I think that act ticked the judges off. However, he played an incredible piece but I was holding my breath because it looked he was going to fall off that piano stool. He sat very awkwardly in a fetal position, bending low and his hands barely reaching the keys. It felt like an figure skating routine. He had to hit the routine perfectly or he was going to fall. When he finished, he received the most thunderous applause. Well, deserved.
The last dancer wore this costume where a mask cover one side of the eye and her cheek. Her clothes were risque and it was further enhanced by starting the routine with her back turned to the audience who gave a loud thunderous scream. She hit the routine confidently, played the audience like she was looking at everyone, and presentation was excellent. However, it was very short and kind of abrupt. You wanted more. It was kind of like that song by Shakira good but short.
When the judges presented their votes to the MC, the last dance won which drew surprise from everyone including me but remembering my experience as a judge, I wasn't surprised. Piano man's early nerves cost him but he got second. Third place to me was bull, the singing duet got it and I thought it should have been the solo-singer. But beauty did a great job and should take all the money from awkward, shy boy. It was like a doubles team of the Williams sisters at this year's U.S. Open: Serena made all the plays and Venus chipped in here and there. Mr. McGarrity thought they should have had awards from 5th place and on. I went up to "Redeemer" girl and told her that she did a great job and deserved to win. She was somewhat upset but very thankful for the compliment.
After the excitement, I took Mr. McGarrity to his car. He wondered how come they haven't put a motel in this area yet? He wanted to stay one more day but would have to go to Canton to stay at a motel and leave. He was bit frightened of being by solo at this time of the night. I was very gracious for his friendship. Without him, I wouldn't have this kinship feeling. I left town on a detour route back home. What a one day vacation, filled with warm and fuzzy memories of Reinhardt.
I sat with Mr. McGarrity in the middle row upfront but he wasn't sitting in his chair for long. He was moving around and about, taking pictures up close while in action with the digital. Every time he got up, the seat would flap and flutter with that sound. Man, I thought some of the performers were going to get distracted but to their credit, they were professional. There were three judges looking in, one being my former counselor, Dr. Beth Russell. She sat in the front row.
Now the talents. You had a singing duet between the beauty girl and gawky, shy boy. It was decent and both put the effort and the work in but the girl seemed more comfortable and the guy kind of leaned toward her for support. He was too timid to look at her when they finished the song but the girl wasn't (Whats this story about the princess and the frog). Beauty girl dominated. Next was the dancing duo who performed a big band jazz tune. The MC was supposed to perform with this girl but he got hurt so he says. Eventually, another guy performed with her. I have to say this dude was awesome and fluid. He performed without thinking, spontaneously and energetically. On the other hand, dancing girl was watching her steps and tried to make sure that she didn't step on his. She didn't seem comfortable. However at the end, they finished off well.
Next you had a solo dancer and a singer. The dancer did a hop-hop routine which I thought was the best of the dance routines but unfortunately she kept looking up toward the audio booth instead of the audience. It was as if she was in a zone and didn't want to lose her groove that would derail her. She was cute too with that black outfit but didn't get much applause, though. After intermission, this female singer came in and sang "My Redeemer" which really made my feet tap. She did pitch off (her voice) here and there. However, I thought up to this point, she was the best performer because she seemed calm, looked to the audience, and performed the song well.
Piano man came. He wrote his own song but was visibly very nervous. He couldn't even hit the piano. He played "Chop Sticks" for laughs and said no, he didn't write the song. I think that act ticked the judges off. However, he played an incredible piece but I was holding my breath because it looked he was going to fall off that piano stool. He sat very awkwardly in a fetal position, bending low and his hands barely reaching the keys. It felt like an figure skating routine. He had to hit the routine perfectly or he was going to fall. When he finished, he received the most thunderous applause. Well, deserved.
The last dancer wore this costume where a mask cover one side of the eye and her cheek. Her clothes were risque and it was further enhanced by starting the routine with her back turned to the audience who gave a loud thunderous scream. She hit the routine confidently, played the audience like she was looking at everyone, and presentation was excellent. However, it was very short and kind of abrupt. You wanted more. It was kind of like that song by Shakira good but short.
When the judges presented their votes to the MC, the last dance won which drew surprise from everyone including me but remembering my experience as a judge, I wasn't surprised. Piano man's early nerves cost him but he got second. Third place to me was bull, the singing duet got it and I thought it should have been the solo-singer. But beauty did a great job and should take all the money from awkward, shy boy. It was like a doubles team of the Williams sisters at this year's U.S. Open: Serena made all the plays and Venus chipped in here and there. Mr. McGarrity thought they should have had awards from 5th place and on. I went up to "Redeemer" girl and told her that she did a great job and deserved to win. She was somewhat upset but very thankful for the compliment.
After the excitement, I took Mr. McGarrity to his car. He wondered how come they haven't put a motel in this area yet? He wanted to stay one more day but would have to go to Canton to stay at a motel and leave. He was bit frightened of being by solo at this time of the night. I was very gracious for his friendship. Without him, I wouldn't have this kinship feeling. I left town on a detour route back home. What a one day vacation, filled with warm and fuzzy memories of Reinhardt.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
The Alumni Dinner
I entered paying ten dollars for this alumni dinner. It was run by the school and alumni directors. Jo Ellen Wilson was one and the other lady whose presence was known to me as Dr. something. Older skinny woman with short black hair turned grayish who could spunk up at moments. She did the MC of introducing the alumni awards and others. She also started the tour and did the student center reception by giving out drinks. There was another person who was a bit younger and ahead of the Alumni something. In short, they seemed important but this thought entered my head: "here today, gone tomorrow."
That was the vibe I felt. The dinner was inside this convocation hall in the admissions office. I remember the head of admissions, John Head who would ax workers and some even teachers during the middle of the school year. I remember a student named, Shonte Gulley was so upset in of those ax jobs by Mr. Head. What stood out for me was my first week at Reinhardt, the head of the campus police was let go for reasons unknown. Another campus police officer was fired for bringing search dogs continuously to my room for drugs without success. Man, she had all those children to feed. But let me say this, these administrators made these decisions because they thought about students first and these instructors were held to meet a certain standards for students to respect their Christian authority. With that said, her instincts were correct.
Back to the dinner, I got me a plate of chicken, vegetables, and salad with carrot cake. Of course, tea came with it, unsweetened. Sat across a couple and what appeared to be college-age school girl. They seemed nice and then older gentleman came to the table and sat right next to me. He graduated from Reinhardt in 1948. He told me stories about three jobs in college before the school President told him to work two because they would have to own him money. His name was Alvin McGarrity. He talked about being trained as a bookkeeper and a typist which served him when he later went into the navy. I believe he mentioned about working as court stenographer but I'm not sure. He was animated with alot of spunk. He had those big glasses with a brimmed mustache. He certainly didn't act his age. I felt at home talking to him.
When I was getting food on a table stack, a female alumni from 1964 or 1965 talked about how "everybody knew each other, they were in the same social class, worked while in school, and went to church together on Sunday's." My reaction was "wow, how did you get there without an interstate (it wasn't built till the late 80's) and how did you get to this place" (with admiration). She kind of was taken by surprise when another alumni from 1965, talked about two-lane roads from Marietta (I learned later you came from Ga highway 5, then Ga 140, and maybe one more highway at that time). He mentioned about going to University of Tennessee after Reinhardt. In response, I mouthed off "Richmond Flowers" and he was pleasantly surprised and the lady from '64 was shocked to submission. He asked me how did I know? I told him I watched the 1966 Gator Bowl highlights between Tennessee vs. Syracuse on YouTube. Richmond Flowers was the star player for the Vols in that football game. Everything seemed to loosen up with respect from the elders. I wasn't them but I was alumni. A former president smiled and thanked me for coming.
The award dinner was fun. Moderate intros of the winners. Lot of tears from the recipients. They put a lot heart and work into receiving this award. They thanked the school and their families. After the ceremony, a guy stood out for me. I went up to him and noticed that he was from a Georgia town where a famous ballplayer was from. As I talked to him, his wife introduced herself to me. I was taken back when I noticed a bruise on the side of her face. I don't know, maybe she fell, bruises easily due to a disease, or a bad face lift. I kind of looked away but then she got my attention and thanked me for being there. I don't like to judge since I have been judged on this day but let me tell you "here today, gone tomorrow" came to mind.
That was the vibe I felt. The dinner was inside this convocation hall in the admissions office. I remember the head of admissions, John Head who would ax workers and some even teachers during the middle of the school year. I remember a student named, Shonte Gulley was so upset in of those ax jobs by Mr. Head. What stood out for me was my first week at Reinhardt, the head of the campus police was let go for reasons unknown. Another campus police officer was fired for bringing search dogs continuously to my room for drugs without success. Man, she had all those children to feed. But let me say this, these administrators made these decisions because they thought about students first and these instructors were held to meet a certain standards for students to respect their Christian authority. With that said, her instincts were correct.
Back to the dinner, I got me a plate of chicken, vegetables, and salad with carrot cake. Of course, tea came with it, unsweetened. Sat across a couple and what appeared to be college-age school girl. They seemed nice and then older gentleman came to the table and sat right next to me. He graduated from Reinhardt in 1948. He told me stories about three jobs in college before the school President told him to work two because they would have to own him money. His name was Alvin McGarrity. He talked about being trained as a bookkeeper and a typist which served him when he later went into the navy. I believe he mentioned about working as court stenographer but I'm not sure. He was animated with alot of spunk. He had those big glasses with a brimmed mustache. He certainly didn't act his age. I felt at home talking to him.
When I was getting food on a table stack, a female alumni from 1964 or 1965 talked about how "everybody knew each other, they were in the same social class, worked while in school, and went to church together on Sunday's." My reaction was "wow, how did you get there without an interstate (it wasn't built till the late 80's) and how did you get to this place" (with admiration). She kind of was taken by surprise when another alumni from 1965, talked about two-lane roads from Marietta (I learned later you came from Ga highway 5, then Ga 140, and maybe one more highway at that time). He mentioned about going to University of Tennessee after Reinhardt. In response, I mouthed off "Richmond Flowers" and he was pleasantly surprised and the lady from '64 was shocked to submission. He asked me how did I know? I told him I watched the 1966 Gator Bowl highlights between Tennessee vs. Syracuse on YouTube. Richmond Flowers was the star player for the Vols in that football game. Everything seemed to loosen up with respect from the elders. I wasn't them but I was alumni. A former president smiled and thanked me for coming.
The award dinner was fun. Moderate intros of the winners. Lot of tears from the recipients. They put a lot heart and work into receiving this award. They thanked the school and their families. After the ceremony, a guy stood out for me. I went up to him and noticed that he was from a Georgia town where a famous ballplayer was from. As I talked to him, his wife introduced herself to me. I was taken back when I noticed a bruise on the side of her face. I don't know, maybe she fell, bruises easily due to a disease, or a bad face lift. I kind of looked away but then she got my attention and thanked me for being there. I don't like to judge since I have been judged on this day but let me tell you "here today, gone tomorrow" came to mind.
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