This is not a joke… I repeat, this is not a joke. On tonight’s episode of So You Think You Can Dance, do not be surprised if you see hip-hop dancer Comfort Fedoke, who was voted out last week.
This is from ABC NEWS:
Jessica King is out and Comfort Fedoke is getting another shot on “So You Think You can Dance,” Fox TV said Monday. An undisclosed injury forced King to leave early in the competition.
“Her full recovery is paramount and will only come with rest,” series executive producer and judge Nigel Lythgoe said, adding that King had given her blessing to semifinalist Fedoke’s return.
Lythgoe, who fielded questions from reporters at a Television Critics Association meeting, said Fedoke faces the possibility of being eliminated again but was game to compete.
“She sat with Jessica and the lovely story is she (Fedoke) said, `I am so unhappy that you are indisposed, but I thank God for the opportunity of coming back,” Lythgoe recounted, adding, “And that just shows the determination of the young lady.”
They will be paired with new dance partners on Wednesday’s two-hour performance show (8 p.m. EDT). The results of viewer voting will be announced on Thursday’s hour long show (9 p.m. EDT) with two of the dancers facing elimination this week.
SPOILERS:
Courtney and Joshua (Hip Hop and Rumba)
Kherington and Mark (Two Step and Jazz)
Katee and Will (Broadway and Paus de Deux)
Comfort and Twitch (Waltz and Hip Hop)
Chelsie and Gev (Contemporary and Jive)
Make sure to watch SYTYCD tonight, July 16th at 8:00pm, on Fox!
I know this blog for SYTYCD is more late than my others are. This week has actually been pretty busy, so consider that a good thing.
In continuation with my summer infatuation of SYTYCD – Season 4, this is a summary of the Top 12 dancers! Besides that dancing done before the Top 4 is decided, this is the second-most important week, for it decided the Top 10 dancers and the dancers who will be on the SYTYCD tour. Similar to my last review about the dances, this blog will be different from the rest of my SYTYCD blogs, for I will not put my opinions because there were too many routines. Actually, I only disagreed with the judges on a few instances, which I will make sure to point out. My favorite couples are still the same.
Personally, this week will be the most difficult to select the Bottom 3 couples — one is obvious. Everyone had good performances and great choreography.
Couple 1: (Chelsie and Mark) –
Salsa (First Performance):
Judges: Nigel said this was a great routine to open the show — “Mark you always get into character, but just relax your body a little; Chelsie, you are terrific!” Mary said she agrees with Nigel and adds that both of the dancers perform with such power and strength. Mia added “Cheslie, you are gorgeous and I can’t take it! That routine was smoking hot!”
Broadway (First Performance):
Judges: Nigel said that he just came from Vegas and it was 110 degrees, but that wasn’t as hot as their performance… Simply amazing! Mary added that Chelsie that is always committed and Mark is a great partner. Mia concluded that Mark showed a lack of training, but his performance quality is incredible. Moreover, she said that Chelsie was hot and sexy like always, but the performance lacked movement. Loved this performance!
Couple 2 (Comfort and Thayne) –
Hip Hop (First Performance):
Judges: Nigel starts by complimenting the choreography and said that Comfort and Thayne dance it okay, but didn’t see add-age to the choreography. Mary said overall she feels the performance was good, but still agrees with Nigel. Mia added, “the connection is lacking and things the performance was a ‘little’ better than good.” She gave critical advice to Comfort and Thayne. Personally, I think he wants them to go home because I though the routine was hot as hell! Check it out for yourself:
Contemporary (Second Performance):
Judges:Even before the dance started, I knew they were going to be hard on this couple because they probably want them to go home. Nigel started by saying he would like to have seem another couple dance this routine, but makes sure that he points out he doesn’t mean to sound the way it seems. Mary said that the dance was completely believable. She added, “Comfort, you were doing everything beautifully, but it could have been stronger.” Comfort, you can only fake technique so much; if you had a little connection, it would have worked, said Mia Michaels. She added, “Thayne, I disagree with the other judges because I believe you are an amazing dancer… Keep smiling.”
Couple 3: (Jessica and Will) –
Contemporary (First Performance):
Judges: Nigel commented that this was an extraordinary/theatrical piece of work. He added that Will is incredible with his lines and strength and unlike Comfort and Thayne, they added something to the choreography (his words, not mine). Mary believed this was one of the most amazing pieces that she has ever seen on the show. She added that Jessica really stepped up to the plate once again. Mia ended in telling a story about her and Tyce, calling him brilliant and calling the performance “perfect human moving art.” She loved the space and breadth of it! Personally, this was one of my favorite routines of the night. Crazy detail, incredible posture and extensions… Amazing performance and choreography.
Quickstep (Second Performance):
Judges: As mentioned earlier this season, I feel bad for any couple that has to do the dreaded quickstep. Nigel said the performance was great, but that actual quickstep style was not good. Mary added that is the fashion police were her, they would have to give them a ticket — still didn’t understand the purpose of mentioning that, but that is nothing new with Mary. Then, Mia said one of the rudest comments that I have ever heard a judge say on SYTYCD. Mia said “Will, you look tired of carrying her… you need a new partner.” I think the judges, mainly Mia, is too hard of Jessica particularly. Will is an incredible dancer (probably the best on the show). It is not her fault that he is her partner and a better dancer. She is still extremely talented.
Couple 4: (Courtney and Gev) —
Cha Cha (First Performance):
Judges:It was good to see Anya and Pasha back together doing choreography. Nigel told Courtney that he never thought he would see someone as sexy as Anya, but she was tonight! Mary said although Gev could have been better technically, the performance was still entertaining and magical. Mia added “that was ‘fabulosity’ at its best. You two are not the best dancers on this show, but you continue to grow and stay strong!”
Jazz (Second Performance):
Judges: Nigel said this performance is like cotton candy — no substance, but really good. Mary said that the two of them were dynamic and it took strength to do it, but looked effortless. Mia concluded that Courtney and Gev is one of her favorite couples.
Couple 5: (Kherington and Twitch) –
Krump (First Performance):
Judges: Nigel said on paper, this couple dancing krump is equivalent to Busta Rhymes/50 Cent to Miley Cyrus, but admitted that Kherington ripped it. Overall, it was a good performance, but said that she looked tired fro the last 16 bars. Mary believed that Twtich came out with all the aggression and she wanted to sit back and say “WHOA,” and added that Kherington was scary good. Mia said “that was dirty, nasty, stank, and buck!”; “You two did really well.”
Smooth Tango (First Performance):
Judges: “You two murdered the dance routine, not each other,” exclaimed Nigel. Mary added that she Kherington slightly more in this performance, but agreed with Nigel. Mia said “dance is powerful because of what supports the steps and personality makes that brilliant. I didn’t see any commitment. Twitch, you have to get into the character a bit more.”
Couple 6: (Katee and Joshua) —
Viennese Waltz (First Performance):
Judges: Nigel told Joshua that he was too bouncy for him, but thought everything else was great. He added that Katee was effortless, which she always is. Mary said the overall execution could have been stronger, but the performance was okay. Mia concluded that she feels the same way about Joshua… She said, “it was a little clumsy technically, but entertaining nonetheless.” Katee, you are so beautiful and your career as an artist and career is going to be incredible.
Bollywood (Second Performance):
Judges: Initially, when I heard about one of the couples doing Bollywood, I assumed it would be them and then got terrified. But, this was honestly one of the most interesting performances from the entire season. I loved this routine! Nigel started off with saying who would have ever dreamt that this would be on SYTYCD, but this was tremendous. Nigel added that these two always find a way to fuse their elements together. Mary said “one rule: heart, soul, equal standards — you two are stars tonight — you did everything… the strength and athleticism showed is incredible.” Mia ended in saying that it is awesome seeing world class dance on this stage and thanks the choreographer. She added Katee and Joshua did a great job!
Prediction of Bottom Three Couples (Actually predicted last week):
1.) Comfort and Thayne
2.) Jessica and Will
3.) Kherington and Twitch (may shock some people)
Last week as I predicted, Contemporary dancers Kourtni Lind and Matt Dorame were eliminated. Who will it be this week?
If these are the bottom three couples, I have no doubt in my mind that Comfort and Thayne will be the dancers going home. The judges have been wanting these two gone for quite some times and I will be more than surprised if they stayed another week. Personally, I was a fan of both of the dancers, especially Comfort. It was something about her personality that I fell in love with.
Anyone that truly knows me, understands that I am not the biggest BET fan. I am infatuated with my rich Black heritage and culture, but the BET that was created over 20 years ago is not the BET that is on the television today. Maybe it is because of the Uncle Tom — Bob Johnson — that was running the station, did not love his own culture enough to want it to be thoroughly successful, or maybe because Viacom would love for the Black community to appear as their lives are in shambles (so they give us a billion dollars and say ”dance and rap… monkeys”). Nonetheless, something I continue to watch, simply because of the original intention, is the BET Awards.
The BET Awards started in 2000 and is a celebration of Black culture, music, fashion, and self-awareness, which is something truly difficult to find in any aspect of America. Therefore, when the awards show comes on, I am always excited to see that winners, the lifetime achievement recipient, the humanitarian award recipient, and of course, the fantastic performances from the hottest artists in the music industry.
Initially, I was going to give a huge run-down of the performances and my opinions of them, but quite frankly, I think you would rather read who won what awards. I will say, however, after patiently anticipating Usher’s 4 year return, I was not disappointed with his high-energy performance. People can continue to say want they would like about Usher, but he is a pure entertainer. Chris Brown is an amazing singer, dancer, and performer, but let us remember who is “teacher is.” The opening performance of “Love in this Club” showed incredible skills from the background dancers.
Following the introduction, D.L. Hughley, immediately joked about R. Kelly and him being found not guilty and about America finally being ready for a Black President.
I believe the 2008 BET Awards had a night full or ups and some downs. I will not point out the downs because the purpose of the awards show is for uplifting the Black community, something that BET seems to rarely do anymore. Many remarkable performers took the stage by storm: Rihanna, Marvin Sapp, Keyshia Cole, Jeezy, Kanye West, Nelly, Jermaine Dupri, Fergie, Rick Ross (please zip up your shirt), Ludacris, DJ Khaled, Big Boi, Flo-Rida, etc. I think the night had many things to point out, but my favorite performances of the night were:
A return of the best female R&B groups of the 1990’s — Alicia Keys with SWV, En Vogue, and TLC (RIP Left Eye)
Honoring the 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient — The wonderful Al Green, Jill Scott, Anthony Hamilton and Maxwell
Sexiest Performance of the Night — Chris Brown and Ciara (A complete surprise and one of the hottest performances of the night) I was shocked when she came out, but she definitely did this song justice. She is one of the best dancers out and what else do you expect from Chris Brown)?
Respect must be given to Lil Wayne and T. Pain for their great performances as well. They are always entertainers!
2008 BET Award winners:
Best Female R&B Artist: Alicia Keys
Best Male R&B Artist: Chris Brown
Best Group: UGK
Best Gospel Artist: Marvin Sapp
Best Female Hip-Hop Artist: Missy Elliott
Best Male Hip-Hop Artist: Kanye West
Video of the Year: UGK/Outkast – “International Player’s Anthem”
Best Video Director: Erykah Badu and Mr. Roboto
Best Actress: Halle Berry
Best Actor: Denzel Washington
Best Female Athlete of the Year: Candace Parker
Best Male Athlete of the Year: Kobe Bryant
Best Collaboration: Kanye West/T Pain – “The Good Life”
Viewers Choice Award: Lil’ Wayne
BET-J Award: Raheem DeVaughn
Best New Artist: The Dream
Humanitarian Award: Quincy Jones
Lifetime Achievement Award: Al Green
Overall, I think the 2008 BET Awards was a good display of what the Black community can do if we quit focusing on the negatives and quit letting people define us for us. We are bombarded with so many fallacies about ourselves and it is time that we rewrite our history and let society understand “the real us.” It is time for the greatest paradigm shift that America and the world has ever saw!
Like the beautiful and talented Alicia Keys said, “we are incredible, fly, and everyone wants to be like us… I want to dedicate this award to the end of the word CAN’T. That word is DEAD! We don’t know that word. The only word that exists is CAN! Together, we can do anything!
To continue with the language of the June 24th BET Awards… “OBAMA Y’ALL!”
Ever since Sen. Obama announced his candidacy for President of the United States, I did my research and found that I respected everything that this man has done – policy decisions, community organizing, campaign style, and demeanor as a politician. His story is truly like no other and like he said, “no other place is my story even possible.” Obama is constantly proving people wrong and breaking barriers with no sign of looking back. Although Sen. Obama is a well-groomed politician, he is making some mistakes along the way, just as any national candidate would. Nevertheless, I continue to fully endorse Obama for President and will volunteer, fund-raise, and do anything to assure he is elected this upcoming November.
Certainly, as an Obama supporter, I want him to make as little mistakes as possible during the general election, and I am sure he expects that the Republicans will attack him for every “little” detail because let’s face it, you actually should do that if you are trying to win the Presidency. Something that shows how much Obama wants to win Presidency is by rejecting public financing for election. But, what kind of backfire will happen and did Obama really take back his original word? As you read this, please realize that I am an Obama supporter, but have dreams of being a political analyst, so I have to remain as “objective” as possible while I read different articles.
Barack Obama became the first President since the Watergate era to reject public financing for a general election. Generally, this means that Obama rejected taxpayer financing for his general-election campaign, allowing him to spend a limitless amount against Rep. Nominee John McCain, who opted to use public financing, meaning he can only spend $84.1 million. Regardless of Obama’s mediocre fundraising in May ($22 million), he will undoubtedly raise the most money in the history of Presidential elections, allowing him to control his election as much as possible. Quite honestly, I have no problem with Obama rejecting public financing. In fact, I am in favor of him not financing taxpayers for the purpose of his election, but I believe this is now something else that the Republican strategists will speak about. This could add to the idea that he is a “flip flopper,” which is obviously not a good thing.
So, if I am an adamant Obama supporter and even support the idea of rejecting public financing, then what is the problem? Generally, I do not have one, except that this may negatively effect him and will only lead people to believe that “he only cares about winning and not keeping his word.” Of course, Presidential candidates care about winning, but they also want to appear as if they will keep their word, especially with issues so pivotal as public financing.
From what I read in many articles, people are calling Obama a hypocrite because in January 2007, he criticized Hillary Clinton for opting out of public financing and in February, he said that if the Republican opponent uses public financing, then he would agree to a “fundraising truce.” I hurried to search for any rules and regulations for the purpose of Obama changing his opinion (which he has every right to do), but I can mainly find one — this is a man who wants to win the Presidency, and he is not taking any prisoners and for that, I cannot blame him. He understands what he set out to do and will accomplish this goal. Obama is one hell of a politician and I am sure that he was aware of the backfire this could potentially cause.
Sen. McCain painted Sen. Obama as a phony reformer, saying he talks about new politics but takes the low road when it suits him. According to McCain, “he has completely reversed himself and gone back, not on his word to me, but the commitment he made to the American people.” Sadly enough, this statement could be interpreted as true if issues like this come around.
Interesting Note: “The McCain campaign said they will consider opting out as well.” They better make up their mind soon because regardless, they will look like morons for publicly criticizing Obama, then changing their mind. How can you criticize someone for changing their mind and then turn around and do the same thing?” This is why I love politics.
In an email sent out by the Obama campaign, Sen. Obama explains why he decided to change his opinion on public financing, which he brings up very good points. One that particularly comes to mind is “the system as it exists today is broken, and we face opponents who’ve become masters at gaming this broken system.” In addition, I agree with Obama when he expresses that his campaign stlye has been a form of “parallel public financing,” because of majority of the donations coming from people contributing less than $200, far below the maximum.
I am NOT in favor of the public financing system because it really is “broken” and hurts incredible fundraisers, like Sen. Obama. Luckily, I do not believe this decision will influence voters, negatively or positively, because it is a confusing concept. Obama is a great politician and an even better man. I love his message, his fund-raising abilities, and his campaign! Let us all work together in making sure that Obama is elected the next President. First, as Obama supporters, we have to admit some of the mistakes have been made during his candidacy. We shall not take the time to point out the imperfections of the McCain campaign — that will take a lifetime. Simply put, we are not doing Sen. Obama any justice by making it appear as if this candidacy is somehow perfect.
In continuation with my summer enjoyment, this is the summary of So You Think You Can Dance, with the Top 18 dancers. I still believe that last season was better at this point of the competition, but there is always room for improvement and there are 2 standout couples!
Group 1: (Chelsea T. and Thayne) – Jazz:
Judges: Mia Michael thought it was a great concept, but not executed powerfully. She added, “I think you may get kicked off of Mary’s hot tamale train.” Mary responded, “I won’t kick you off the train, but I was rather disappointed.” The judges felt that something wasn’t right. According to the judges, Chelsea looked uncomfortable and they needed more excitement from Thayne. Nigel agreed that is wasn’t real.
My Opinion: Although I do not agree with the judges completely, I still believe they are a strong couple. First and foremost, their costumes were rather horrific and the Mandy Moore’s choreography was not the best. The performance could have been executed more powerfully, but I believe they did the best with what they had to work with.
Group 2: (Chelsie H. and Mark) – Argentine Tango:
Judges: Mia Michael said that she is in love with this couple. Mary said that she loved everything about this performance. Nigel agreed with both of the judges, saying that every extension was graceful and you could tell the story through the choreography.
My Opinion: SEXY PERFORMANCE! Probably the most underrated couple on the show. Their performance was absolutely amazing, from the floor work to the lunges…Great routine!
Group 3: (Jessica and Will) – Hip Hop:
Judges: Mia Michael referred to Will as a genius, who understands mostly every style of dancing, but told Jessica that she was good but she has to ’step it up.’ Mary said that the dance was synchronized, but was cheerleader-ish. Nigel simply told Will that he was one force to be reckoned with.
My Opinion: Initially, I didn’t like the performance, but I ended up realizing that it was really hard hitting. Although I do believe Will is a PHENOMENAL dancer, I believe the judges were too hard on Jessica. I believe she did a good job, although Will out-danced her. Jessica still displayed many talents… Great performance!
Group 4: (Kourtni and Matt) – Fox Trot:
Judges: The judges told Matt that he is refined and great, but told Kourtni told they don’t think she has owned her size fully and she only shows confidence when her legs are up in the air. Nigel said he was pleased with the performance, although it was fake.
My Opinion: I believe this was a graceful performance, but I was not the biggest fan overall. I think they show amazing technique, but many things were missing in the performance – emotion.
Group 5: (Courtney and Gev) – Contemporary:
Judges: Mia said that she wanted to see more organic fluidity from Courtney, and said that she was proud of Gev because she never expected this from a B-Boy. Of course, Mary screamed “I LOVED IT!” Also responding that the breaker boy is about to break some hearts. Nigel said they danced it well, but he didn’t believe that. Nigel has a lot of that going around lately.
My Opinion:Extremely emotional performance! Courtney is amazing; I would hate to see people do a solo against her. This routine literally gave me chills. Gev was really strong in this performance — unexpectedly. Good job overall!
Group 6: (Katee and Joshua) – Broadway:
Judges: Incredible standing ovations from the judges and the crowd. I have never saw the judges act like this in any of the seasons. Mary exclaimed, “the two of you should come with the warranty ’satisfaction guaranteed!’ The judges said that the performance was surreal and their spirit as a couple is amazing!
My Opinion:So, I officially have my favorite couple… I thought I fell in love with this couple last week when they danced a hip hop routine to “No Air,” but their performance only continued to improve this week. This performance was phenomenal and it was one of the best Broadway routines in all seasons of SYTYCD.
Group 7: (Susie and Marquis) – Salsa
Judges: The judges loved the choreography, but wasn’t crazy about the performance. Mary said that Marquis was doing too much and that she expected more from Susie, since this is her element. The judges believed that Susie was sexy, but missed her raw edge that the performance needed… “It should have been fiery and it wasn’t.”
My Opinion:First, I don’t understand Susie’s hair at all, especially that little black patch in the front. Initially, I was rooting for this couple because everyone seemed so against them, but I noticed many mistakes. Marquis could have been a lot stronger as a partner. They will have to prove themselves during their solos because I definitely believe they will be in the Bottom 3 couples.
Group 8: (Kherington and Twitch) – Viennese Waltz:
Judges: The judges loved the choreography and Mia felt the smiling was a bit too much, but Nigel though he was elated from the performance and her beautiful face only adds to her element of dancing. Nigel said “you breathed together and felt the music together… You were remarkable.” Although Mia kept referring to the “awkward smile,” she still believed it was a great performance.
My Opinion: Absolutely stunning performance! This is another couple to be reckoned with. Honestly, I didn’t understand what Mia was saying. I think the purpose of Kherington smiling during the performance was because of the powerful story of Jean Marc Genereux’s daughter and how she feels when she watches the show. It was endearing to see Kherington fight through tears and Twitch is insanely good. This performance really gave me chills.
Group 9: (Comfort and Chris) – Krump:
Judges: “I am a big fan of Lil C’s work,” Mia said. She added that she was a big fan of Comfort’s, but that this must have been a really hard week for Chris because it showed. There were those funny White boy moments, but you pulled it off. Mary said that she felt Comfort could have danced a little harder, and Chris did a respectable job, but Comfort out-danced him. Nigel said “my grandma is more gangster than that, and that he grabbed his crotch as if he had to pee.” He added that Comfort was good, but he expected more from someone who dances hip hop.
My Opinion: First, I could not wait for this routine because I love Comfort, especially when she dances. I will say that I love Lil C’s choreography and I believe that the judges were too hard on Comfort because she did an amazing job… She was hard-hitting and added very element of krumping, which the judges clearly don’t know too much about. Chris, on the other hand, was not good at all. I believe Nigel went a little too far in criticizing him, but I do not think Chris was good at all.
This week, it was rather difficult to pick my favorite performance because I thought two were incredible. This week it will be a tie!
Favorite Performance (1): Katee and Joshua (Broadway)
Favorite Performance (2): Kherington and Twitch (Viennese Waltz)
Last week, as I predicted, Ballerina Rayven and Ballroom dancer Jamie went home, due to their mediocre solo’s. Who will it be this week?
Prediction of Bottom 3 Couples:
1.) Kourtni L. and Matt D.
2.) Susie and Marquis
3.) Comfort and Chris
If these are the three couples, I believe Susie and possibly Marquis will be going home, although I kind of hope that it will be Chris, so Comfort will get a new partner. I think he is holding her back honestly. You never know with this show sometimes though.
Stay tuned tonight (Thursday, June 19th at 9:00pm) for the RESULTS and to see the Shane Sparks choreographed group dance!
The Bush administration opened Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba shortly after the “terrorist” attacks of September 11th to hold ‘enemy combatants,’ people suspected of ties to al-Qaida or the Taliban.
This prison has been harshly criticized for the detentions themselves, aggressive interrogation tactics, and torture that were conducted there
In a reproach to President Bush’s administrative and supposed “anti-terror” policies, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that the detainees held at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba deserve habeas corpus. In order words, the detainees must know the reasons they are being held. Furthermore, the prisoners have the right to appeal to U.S. Civilian Courts to challenge their indefinite imprisonment without charges. Of course, President Bush disagreed with the Courts’ decision and even suggested the he may seek further laws that could keep terror suspects detained in various prison camps, as his lame duck presidency comes to an end. Although the U.S. Supreme Court has repudiated his executive decision on Guantanamo Bay several times, our great President seems to not get the clue of what the American people truly wants.
Writing the opinion of the court, Justice Anthony Kennedy said “The laws and Constitution are designed to survive, and remain in force, in extraordinary times.” As if anyone was shocked, Justice Antonin Scalia dissented in saying “this will make the war harder on us. It will almost certainly cause more Americans to be killed.” I disagree with Scalia’s comments and believe the reason so many Americans are being killed is because the Bush administration fallacies on terrorism. Not only do they bring misleading notions to the forefront, they take hundreds of people, detain them, torture them, and act as if there hands are clean because they put them on a naval base not directly on U.S. territory. Furthermore, hundreds of prisoners were released because lack of evidence, but this torture camp was still active. Our government continues to have “bloody hands” and I am glad the U.S. Supreme Court came to this deeply divided decision.
Bush has argued the detentions are needed to protect the nation in a time of unprecedented threats from al-Qaida and other foreign terrorist groups. The president said Thursday, “It was a deeply divided court, and I strongly agree with those who dissented.” He said he would consider whether to seek new laws in light of the ruling “so we can safely say to the American people, ‘We’re doing everything we can to protect you.’If the administration were truly doing everything to protect the American people, it is my belief that we would not be in this predicament in the first place. Doing everything you can to protect the American people would be to actually investigate and find people who are harming American values, not to find anyone who wears a head scarf and “looks like a Muslim,” whatever that may mean.
Chief Justice John Roberts criticized the decision of the court for striking down what he considers “the most generous set of procedural protections ever afforded aliens detained by this country as enemy combatants.” I am so sure that the prisoners detained are thanking the United States for the generosity our government has given them, especially when they use interrogation tactics, a.k.a. torture tactics that they pretend don’t exist.
Either way, I have not been to thrilled with recent decisions of the Supreme Court (mainly Baze v. Rees), but I am pleased to know that the Court decided to grant habeas corpus rights to the detainees held at Guantanamo Bay and recognizing a rule of law established hundreds of years ago – the right for a court to determine whether a prisoner is being detained lawfully.
For reference: Senator Barack Obama was in support of the Court’s decision, while Senator John McCain expressed his disapproval of the Court’s decision.
Majority Opinion: Justices Anthony Kennedy, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, David Souter, John Paul Stevens, and Stephen Breyer
Dissenting Opinion: Chief Justice John Roberts, Justices Antonin Scalia, Clarence Thomas, and Samuel Alito
If you read my last blog, then everyone should know that I spilled my secret infatuation to the blog world. Not that I care because this is an extremely good show with talented and inspirational dancers, but people pretty much know me as the “political guy.” That aside, I love this show and will try to keep everyone updated on what happened and my predictions on the show.
Group 1: (Rayven and Jamie) – Hip Hop:
Judges: Dan and Nigel did not really like the performance, but Mary did, referring to it as “cotton candy,” and admitted that she like cotton candy. Yeah, she is weird like that.
My Opinion:I wasn’t the biggest fan of this performance, but some people loved it. Jamie was good, but I feel Raven was slightly better in this routine. Overall, it was an okay performance, but not to impressive. I guess we will see what happens, but they may be in trouble tonight.
Group 2: (Susie and Marquis) – Smooth Waltz:
Judges: Difficult choreography, but made sure to have tremendous lines. Kind of messed up on one part, but still completed it beautifully. judges said they really hope people watching understands how good the performance was.
My Opinion: I believe this was a beautiful performance, but you could tell the choreography was a bit difficult. The lift could have better, but gave a sexy and graceful performance.
Group 3: (Kourtni L. and Matt D.) – Jazz:
Judges: Very fun routine, but needed a little more personality. Nigel told Matt that “he dances like someone stuck a broom where the sun don’t shine.” Mary said they did a great job because they are technically trained. Dan said great dancers, choreography, and concept, but just an okay performance.
My Opinion: I believe this performance started off sexy because of the concept of the routine, but overall, it could have been better. I generally liked the performance, but was expecting something a little more that I didn’t get.
Group 4: (Chelsea T. and Thayne)- Cha Cha:
Judges: The judges loved the performance and Mary put them on the “Hot Tamale Train” and they deserved it! Dan said that Thayne was secondary in the performance, but that is because he was doing his job.
My Opinion: FINALLY… A performance that I screamed for! What an amazing performance?! Thayne has amazing technique, but Chelsea was PHENOMENAL. I am loving this couple so far. This group was so sexy, especially Chelsea… They owned the stage.
Group 5: (Chelsie H. and Mark) - Contemporary:
Judges: Agreed that this was beautiful choreography and these dancers performed it remarkably. Mary referred to their dancing as effortless. Dan said they did a really good job!
My Opinion: Mia Michaels can never disappoint me and this just proved it. This was a remarkable performance from two really talented dancers. Chelsie and Mark really stood out to me. Amazing performance from both of them.
Group 6: (Kherington and Twitch) – Broadway:
Judges: Mary was definitely a bit corny with her sprinkler joke, but she obviously knows a good performance when she sees one. All three of the judges loved the performance and rightfully so.
My Opinion: Another really HOT performance. This routine has me smiling constantly. Kherington was amazing and Twitch really surprised me with his toe touch. Fun choreography and amazing performance.
Group 7: (Comfort and Chris) – Jive:
Judges: After Nigel failed at doing a “Black woman” impression, he said “you’re going to have to watch out for Mary’s sprinklers again” because it was sexy, but warned Comfort about not bending her knees. The judges said they showed great personality and they are larger than life.
My Opinion: When the performance started, I knew I would love it! Comfort was sexy, vivacious, and full of personality. Chris was really good as well, proving that he more than a “personality of a tree.” Prepare to see them again.
Group 8: (Katee and Joshua) - Hip Hop:
Judges: “That was really, really good,” Nigel exclaimed. It was a wonderful combination of the pair of you. The audience was really pleased as well as the judges. Mary said that she didn’t expect it and Joshua was effortless. Dan exclaimed that they killed dancing in unison, which is not easy.
My Opinion: This was a really good performance. Initially, I did not like the way Katee started, but she definitely improved. Joshua was really good throughout the entire performance. Annoying performance… Expect to see them next week. I believe they will be a favorite.
Group 9: (Jessica and Will) - Tango:
Judges: Very professional couple… “Will, you are very majestic and if you keep dancing like that, I’m glad to see Debbie not being here.” Jessica, you had a couple of mistakes, but still a strong, passionate, and fiery performance. Mary called them the couple to beat.
My Opinion: Once again, a performance I really liked the brilliant facial expressions and lines. They are clearly one of the top couples to beat. Overall, a phenomenal performance!
Group 10: (Courtney and Gev) – Disco:
Judges: The performance could have been a little cleaner and Mary said she liked the performance, but Nigel was not a fan of it at all. They may have a little trouble.
My Opinion: I really like something about Courtney, maybe it’s her personality, but I wasn’t really a fan of this performance. I think Gev is good, but I feel Courtney out-danced him just slightly. A little messy at the end, but a pretty good performance.
Overall, this was a really good First Episode! It will be interesting to see who the bottom three couples will be. Just for a little fun, I will give my prediction of the bottom three couples.
Favorite Performance: Katee and Joshua (Hip Hop)
Prediction of Bottom 3 Couples:
1.) Rayven and Jamie
2.) Kourtni L. and Matt D.
3.) Courtney and Gev
If these are the three couples, I believe Jamie and possibly Rayven will be going home, but you never will know. They are a popular couple and they will get a lot of votes. The first week is always difficult to tell for the fate of these talented dancers. This is a really good show. I always get better when the Top 10 come around, but stay tuned tonight (Thursday, June 12th at 9:00pm) for the RESULTS!
Every since the first season of So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD), I have become infatuated with this show. It is almost like American Idol, except for dancing, and MUCH BETTER! It truly shows dancers at their highs and lows. Admittedly, I am upset that a couple of my favorite dancers in Las Vegas did not make it to the Top 20, especially Brandon Bryant, but I will still root for the rest of the dancers.
There are many dancers in the Top 20 that are extremely talented beyond belief. I cannot explain why I am infatuated with this show, but I love to see people perform what they live for. Please be on the watch out for the dancers, starting this Wednesday at 8:00pm pm on FOX. Trust me, you will not be disappointed. Well, if you don’t like to try new things you will be!
Season One Winner: Nick Lazarrini; Runner-Up: Melody Lacayanga
Season Two Winner: Benji Schwimmer; Runner-Up: Travis Wall
Season Three Winner: Sabra Johnson; Runner-Up: Danny Tidwell
Season Four: ???
Watch this season to find out! Okay, enough of me making mini-commercials for Fox.
This blog may offend some people, but what kind of person would I be if I never offended anyone – a dull one. As stated in earlier blogs, I have written past blogs on different web sites, so this one if from about a month-and-a-half ago.
Good Afternoon Representative Kern. My name is Preston Mitchum and this response is in regard to the disrespectful and discriminatory comments concerning the LGBT community.
I am offended by your rude remarks about the homosexual community and believe you should apologize immediately. As a State representative, you are supposed to be of integrity, intelligence, motivation, and perseverance. I cannot believe that you uttered hatred words about GLBT’s. I am sure there are other issues that State representatives and members of Congress can worry about, besides sexual orientation. For instance, the wiretapping bill, the Iraq War, issues with Guantanamo Bay, etc. You made really harsh comments and I for one am deeply offended.
Comments such as: “Studies show that no society that has totally embraced homosexuality has lasted more than, you know, a few decades. So it’s the death knell of this country.” Additionally, “I honestly think it’s the biggest threat our nation has, even more so than terrorism or Islam, which I think is a big threat.”
If you believe homosexuality poses more of a threat than terrorism, you should reconsider your position. God forbid (yes I said God) that someone is gay or lesbian. I would hate if they touched you because I hear that this “disease” is contagious. Furthermore, I am bothered that you are an educator. Excuse me for assuming, but I hope you are not telling children that homosexuality is an abomination. This will force children to hate the GLBT community and whether you believe it or not, they are not born to hate. They grow up in a society that teaches them that homosexuality is wrong and believe it so much, they murder other children who are comfortable enough to “come out.” Case in point – Lawerence King -a 15-year-old Junior High School students that was shot in the head for being openly gay.
To make it worse, you also compare being gay to “toe cancer.” How can a woman with such stature, be so unkind to a group of individuals who were born into a lifestyle? Why would one person choose to be gay and ridiculed by people in high positions like you? No one questions why you are a straight woman, and therefore, you have neither the right nor authority to question another’s sexual orientation.
Our nation is supposed to be progressive and dedicated to improving the lives around us. Progressives believe that narrow self-interest should not be what defines America. Something that the Center for American Progress mentions on their website is that a progressive is NOT: naïve, short-sighted, narrow minded, selfish, arrogant, and xenophobic. I can only hope that today’s youth listen to your comments and get as offended as I am and writes numerous emails. There are no facts behind your words. It is simply frustration for an opinion that will never be changed.
Honestly, I appreciate the work you are doing as a State representative, but this in no way overweighs your criticism of the homosexual community. I am personally disappointed that we have representatives speaking for constituents, especially if they are as discourteous as your words.
I just have one question for you: If homosexuality is “spreading” like the plague, please explain to me why you are a heterosexual? You have not been injected by the homosexual bug, so how can you say that this is negatively affecting our community. I hope you really reconsider everything you said and apologize to the gay community for your uncouth comments. Remember, they are listening.
Grapevine High School senior, Anjali Datta, holds the highest grade point average of her 471 person graduating class. Unfortunately, she will not receive the esteemed recognition of being the class valedictorian. Why you may ask – because she had the audacity to graduate high school in 3 years, instead of the 4 years, as indicated in the school district’s policy. As encouraged by guidance counselors, Datta started taking high school courses in middle school and was assured that if she had the highest grade point average, then she would be named valedictorian.
Although Datta’s grade point average of 5.898 is the highest of the school’s 103 year history, it is not enough to name her valedictorian, which brings a one-year college scholarship. Her closest competitor, Tyler Franklin, is graduating with a 5.640, which is a great accomplishment, but in no comparison to Datta’s. Ironically, there is no argument over who has the highest grade point average numerically; the disagreement is over something entirely different.
The school district’s policy states: “The valedictorian shall be the eligible student with the highest weighted grade-point average for four years of high school.” The question for administrators is whether this means four calendar years of the students’ attendance, or completing the credits that should take students’ four years to earn? My answer definitely falls on the latter of the two.
While Franklin’s grade point average is incredible, it does not surpass that of Datta’s. Personally, it is sending a wrong message to students who want to do exceedingly well. I certainly understand that something could occur in her fourth year of school that would make her coursework suffer, but I seriously doubt that would deter her from her studies. People are writing on web logs saying “she needs to get a life,” “her parents are pressuring her,” or my personal favorite, “she needs to stop whining because she was not involved in anything else, but schoolwork.” Although someone balancing schoolwork, a social life, and extracurricular activities are admirable, like Franklin, the title of valedictorian is strictly about the highest grade point average. It is not about popularity – there are already superlatives for that. She is a phenomenal student and should be recognized as such. Did I forget to mention that she is being honored with an award for having a perfect ACT score as well?
“This really diminishes the value of the valedictorian title,” Datta said. I will wholeheartedly agree with her statement. I know there are people who do not understand why she may be “complaining” because she will still be receiving a scholarship to the University of Texas – Austin. Personally, that is not the point because she has rightfully earned her title as valedictorian.
Anjali’s father, Deepak Datta, was outraged when he heard of the news. “I have not heard of any educational institution penalizing a student for excellence – for completing a demanding set of classes ‘too quickly,’ ” he said.”Anjali’s experience will surely send a strong negative signal to other talented students trying to excel.”
What makes this so sad to me is it seems that bureaucratic high school policies are more important than academic excellence. As said before, Franklin did an amazing job and should be recognized with the salutatorian title, but this policy should be revisited in case someone else does great work and graduates in three years. I wonder what would happen if a student with disabilities needs an extra year to get credits and earns the highest grade point average – would they receive the coveted valedictorian title? It does not appear so.
