SECRECY REPORT CARD

OpentheGovernment.org, a coalition of government groups, journalists, consumers, and environmentalists who focus on making the government more transparent and to strengthen the public trust in government has published in 2007 Secrecy Report Card. According to the report:

• Classified information has remained significantly higher than in the years prior to 2001

• States continue to enact laws that limit access to government information with 114 bills that expanded executive powers and closure of otherwise public forums due to security reasons

• 108 patents have been kept secret, with inventions kept under "secrecy orders"

• More than 25% of all Federal contracts are not competed on openly and fairly

The "Secrecy Report Card 2007, shows both a continued expansion of government secrecy across a broad array of agencies and actions and some, limited, movement toward more openness and accountability. While every administration wants to control access to information about its policies and practices, information created by or for the federal government belongs to the American public and should be open."

Read Report

VOGUE COVER: LeBron and Gisele

You know I caught the discussion about this on the Today Show and was very intrigued. First I couldn’t believe that the mass media picked up on the story, although they did so because bloggers got so heavily into it. Ann Curry was excellent as she asked Nancy Giles (from CBS morning show who I really like) what do African American people see in this picture that white people don’t see? Nancy Giles said that blacks are always depicted in the media as aggressive, threatening and as primal beings. Advertising guru Danny Deutsch saw nothing wrong with the cover at all.

Actually they showed other Annie Lebowitz shots for the cover and I too think that they should have used one where LeBron and Gisele were both in movement, it was a great shot, but maybe the editors at Vogue thought it was too Sports Illustrated. I think this does help to perpetuate the stereotypes that Giles referred to and may purposefully be provocative. I’m sure LeBron got paid well for the shoot, plus that type of promotion boosts other career opportunities for him. So it’s easy to see why he would be positive about the cover shot. I personally think they made Gisele look like a weak figure, even a bit odd—twisted and her footing doesn’t appear well balanced. It looks like the only reason she’s standing upright is because LeBron is holding her up, yet that point of view wasn’t discussed on the Today Show.

Perhaps Vogue wanted some extra promotion for the magazine cover? 

Here's the full story

NEWARK LAUNCHING TALENT SEARCH

Mayor Cory A. Booker announced that the City of Newark ’s Division of Recreation/Cultural Affairs is seeking musicians, entertainers, and other performers to star in its concerts and events.

The division is seeking musicians with backgrounds in many types of music, including Hip Hop, R&B, Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Rap, and Salsa. Musicians can be solo performers, groups, dancers, bands, or choirs of all ethnic backgrounds. In addition, the division is looking for face painters, clowns, puppet performers, and food and craft vendors to entertain children and adults at fairs and events. The division is also looking for disk jockeys, comedians, and poets to give readings.

“ Newark and the surrounding region are rich with diversity and performing talent. The next generation of Sarah Vaughans and Frankie Vallis are with us right here, and we are proud to offer them a stage upon which to star. I urge performers, bands, entertainers, dancers, comedians, and groups to contact our Recreation Division and become Newark ’s newest legends,” Mayor Booker said.

The division is planning an expanded series of concerts this summer, utilizing concert halls, parks, and other public facilities, and plans a diverse array of entertainment for these events. Entertainers will get paid for their appearances. Performers need not be Newark residents, and they can be professional.

Musicians, comedians, and performers are encouraged to submit tapes, CDs, and biographies to Kevin Peterman at the Division of Recreation/Cultural Affairs, at 94 William Street , Newark , New Jersey , 07102 . Other performers and vendors can also contact him at (973) 733-6454.

THE LIVING CANDIDATE

The Museum of the Moving Image has a great archive of Presidential campaign commercials going back to 1952. Last year I watched some of the commercials in a comfy screening booth at the Museum and it was great fun. But now you can view the Museum's Living Room Candidate website right from your desk. The site allows you to search commercials by candidate, year, issue, and types of commercials and also has transcripts and teaching materials as well.

They also have an interesting statistic on their site: "The Internet is used regularly by almost two thirds of American adults, surpassing the level of penetration achieved by television in 1960, when that medium first played a vital role in the outcome of a presidential election. The Internet is no longer a novelty, but is rather a necessary campaign tool. Airing just 739 times in a total of three states, the controversial "Swift Boat" ad gained much of its considerable traction from the Internet and 24-hour cable news channels."

SUNDAY IN ISTANBUL

Sunny. Warm. Beautiful.

TAKE ACTION: SAVE THE INTERNET

A new bill has been introduced in U.S. House that would stop Comcast, Verizon and AT&T from controlling what you do, and where you go online.

In 2006, 1.6 million people stopped mighty phone and cable companies from gutting Net Neutrality. In 2007, more than a quarter-million people sent comments to the FCC and opened up cell-phone networks to user choice and innovation.



This year, we're going to stop Internet blocking and censorship once and for all. Learn more about the Internet Freedom Preservation Act

COMCAST PAID PEOPLE TO KEEP PUBLIC OUT OF INTERNET DEBATE

SavetheInternet.com just caught Comcast Corp. stacking an FCC hearing with paid (and apparently sleepy) seat-fillers.

The hearing was set up to investigate Comcast's recent blocking of the Internet. But Comcast packed the room so that the public couldn't get in to voice their support for Net Neutrality.

They took pictures and recorded an interview that proves Comcast was taking seats from concerned citizens. Now, they need you to make sure that the company doesn't get away with this ever again. Here's what you can do:

1. Tell your friends to take action at SavetheInternet.com.
2. Support SavetheInternet.com's campaign to protect free choice on the Internet.

Comcast is blocking the public debate just like it is blocking the Internet: it wields its substantial political and financial power to shut out debate and shut up people.

PLAY PRESIDENTIAL PAINTBALL

Have fun- with this cute widget...

WHY THE INTERNET IS GREAT

Here's the proof. What a great medium for the people--for the public. Derrick a young guy, an immigrant tells us why he's behind Barack Obama. An interviewer comes up to him at an Obama rally and starts firing off questions. Derrick is an eloquent and impressive young guy. He's taken the time to understand why he likes a candidate and is supporting him. He also explains why he thinks it's imperative to be politically engaged in the US. His second video is quite impassioned and offers it's own hope. This is why the Internet is so much better than broadcast television. Here we can analyze a swath of opinions and finally make a truly informed decision instead of just sitting on the sidelines and listening to pundits and journalists.

Derrick's 2nd video (tan background) is a must watch and is in response to the initial interview video.

FutureWave -International Youth Films

FutureWave is a feature-length program of shorts by students 18 and under that showcases the best in international student films. Submissions close on March 1, 2008. Submit student films completed in the past year.

Superfly is a 3-Day Youth Filmmaking Intensive during the Seattle International Film Festival. 50 youth from across the country come together to create a short film in just three days with a high profile public screening at the festival. Students will collaborate with other youth and master teachers, while exploring Pacific Northwest Native American Culture. Application deadline is April 1, 2008.

More information is available online or contact dustin.kaspar@seattlefilm.org if you have any questions or need any more information about these important programs.

POINTS OF LIGHT VOLUNTEER AWARDS

If your company has an employee volunteer program, you probably have some great stories to share about the impact your volunteers have had in communities across the country. Maybe it’s through large scale annual events, or with smaller groups of volunteers in remote locations who have significantly impacted their community – the Points of Light & Hands On Network wants to hear your stories. The awards are given out annually by the Points of Light & Hands On Network, demonstrating the values of corporate social responsibility through their employee volunteers. Visit the website.

PANGEA DAY

If the whole world was watching what story would you tell? Pangea Day taps the power of film to strengthen tolerance and compassion while uniting millions of people to build a better future.

On May 10, 2008 -- Pangea Day -- sites in Cairo, Dharamsala, Kigali, London, New York City, Ramallah, Rio de Janeiro and Tel Aviv will be linked to produce a 4-hour program of powerful films, visionary speakers, and uplifting music. The program will be broadcast live to the world through the Internet, television, digital cinemas, and mobile phones.

Your film could be part of it. Pangea Day is looking for films approximately 5-minutes in length that will make people laugh, pause and think. They can be fiction, non-fiction, real-life, animation or a mixture. Above all, they should tell a story that someone else on the other side of the world will be able to relate to.

Of course, movies alone can’t change the world. But the people who watch them can. So following May 10, 2008, Pangea Day organizers will facilitate community-building activities around the world by connecting inspired viewers with numerous organizations which are already doing groundbreaking work.

Pangea is the name of the original super-continent which contained all the world's land mass before the continents started splitting apart 250 million years ago. Pangea Day is being launched with the vision that the people of the world can begin to overcome their divisions, and that the power of film can help make it possible.

Find out how Pangea Day got its start with Jehane Noujaim's wish.

Join the Youtube group

GIRLS GOING PLACES

Now in its eighth year, Guardian has brought Girls Going Places(R) virtual, by allowing teen entrepreneurs and nominator's unlimited access to program news, highlights and video on YouTube, Facebook and MySpace. Teachers, parents, and community members are encouraged to nominate accomplished young female entrepreneurs between the ages of 12 and 18. Nominations will be accepted through February 29, 2008.

"We're excited to bring the Girls Going Places(R) program online and allow teens and parents full access to this great program that supports women in business of all ages," said Diana Acevedo, National Manager, Girls Going Places, Guardian, New York. "Small business is the main driver of our economy and women account for more than 55% of new startups in the country*. We encourage budding entrepreneurs to go online to learn more about Girls Going Places(R) and how to get involved."

Additional information about the program and nomination forms for the competition can be found on their Website.

REAL OR NOT~ FIXATION WITH CELEBRITY IMAGES

British Photographer and Filmmaker Alison Jackson asks, "How do we know when we are looking at something, that it's real or not?...We read all our information through imagery. It's an extremely fast way of getting information and it's extremely difficult to tell if it's real, if it's constructed correctly." Her art and new book illustrate this point beautifully. Using look-a-likes, Jackson plays tricks on her audience to make them think critically about the images they see every day as voyeur paparazzi wanna-be's.



Her perspective is enlightening and worth the 17 minute exploration on her art and business to get an inkling on what drives the mass interest in celebrities.

YOU'RE BEING WATCHED

Adam Rifkin recently released LOOK, a film about the fact that the average American is photographed about 200 times per day. According to Rifkin there are 30 million surveillance cameras capturing 4 billion hours of footage per week in the US in department stores, parking lots, shopping malls, hotel lobbies, public bathrooms, gas stations, and on the roads. That's pretty scary. The idea came to him when he received a traffic ticket that included a photo of him realizing his stupidity of driving through a red light while singing to the radio. He was caught on tape. "The idea that a photograph could be taken of me without my knowledge and then sent to my home address freaked me out a little bit. I started to think, "What other cameras are out there, taking shots of me that I'm not aware of?" There seem to be mixed reviews about the film, but it's worth the consideration just in order to think critically about the "privacy" implications of being watched 24/7, especially when we forget the cameras are out there or don't even realize it.



The film appears to use only surveillance camera footage, but is actually shot using actors and scripted scenes. Probably worth a Look.

PRODUCT PLACEMENTS IN PROGRAMMING WILL OVERTAKE 30 SEC SPOTS

And they'll be sneaky about it.

It looks like NBC takes the cake for tops in product placements. NBC also owns Bravo, so you will see in the chart below that NBC Universal has 8 out of 10 of the top program product placements in 2007. In a rare combination of corporate sponsorship and all-out advertising, on New Years Day, musician Seal performed live on, “The Music of Seal on Ice,” (NBC) while Gold Medalist skaters performed for the crowd with proceeds going to the nonprofit organization Autism Speaks. On a side note, Bob White, Autism Speaks co-founder, whose grandson is autistic, is Vice Chairman of General Electric and served as CEO of NBC for 20 years.

There were quite a few corporate sponsors, one of which was Musselman’s applesauce. The show was quite effective in interviewing the skaters and their families about their Musselman’s healthy snack choices. The show itself was rather odd, but I love Seal and continued to watch in awe while the advertising and promotion machines were seamlessly integrated both in program content and the “traditional” commercial advertising. According to one blogger who was at the “live” event, Seal actually went backstage for 5 of the songs while the skaters performed to canned Seal music, yet the broadcast showed only the Seal live performance. Keep your eye out for more product placements and less 30 minute spots in the future.

TOP 10 MOST EFFECTIVE PRODUCT PLACEMENTS OF 2007

1.TYSON - Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (ABC)

2.Sue Bee Honey - The Apprentice LA (NBC)

3.Soft Scrub - The Apprentice LA (NBC)

4.KRAFT - Top Chef (Bravo)

5.Propel Fitness Water - Workout (Bravo)

6.Smart Mouth - The Apprentice LA (NBC)

7.NEXXUS - Shear Genious (Bravo)

8.Second Life - The Office (NBC)

9.Visa - What Not to Wear (TLC)

10.Kenmore - Top Chef (Bravo)

Source: Hollywood Reporter

ELECTION 2008: HOW ARE YOU LEANING?

With the Iowa Caucus drawing near what presidential candidate are you leaning towards? Don't know? Confused? Here are some fun and handy surveys to take that will only take a few minutes of your time, but may help to clarify your position on issues and that of the candidates.

Select a MPR Candidate Poll

WQAD Select a Candidate Quiz

When you're done with those consider voting on the MySpace Presidential Primary

Looking for some Iowa Primary statistics?

VOICES OF HOPE LAUNCHES 2 VIDEOS FOR NONPROFIT GROUPS

Voices of Hope Production has had a busy 4th quarter.

Working with New Jersey Community Capital we directed and produced Invest in Change, recently screened at their 20th Anniversary event held at the Newark Museum in October. New Jersey Community Capital (NJCC) is a community development financial institution (CDFI) that invests in communities throughout New Jersey by providing loans to Non profit organizations, small businesses and Charter schools. They provide capital for affordable housing, education, as well as cultural and health services in low income communities that are in need of development funding. This short film serves to educate individuals, foundations, non profit organizations, NGOs, faith-based groups and corporations about how to invest in the state, get back a rate of return on their investment, as well as how to become a socially responsible investor. The video is being used as part of a larger strategy to encourage more people to invest in change in New Jersey. Download NJCC's Annual Report to learn about social investing.




Voices of Hope Productions also worked with NCADD-NJ and Parent to Parent to develop a grassroots video of a rally held in southern New Jersey. Parent to Parent Moms, some of whom have had their children die of addiction because of treatment limits imposed by health insurers, rallied outside Speaker Joe Roberts legislative district office. They delivered a letter urging mental health and parity legislation be posted for a vote and that no amendments be included that would compromise the coverage and protections the bill provides for. This grassroots video illustrates the importance of ordinary citizens getting their message out to elected officials and then using the media tools available today to get wider coverage than they if they relied only on traditional news media. The video and the news coverage was emailed to over 10,000 people, including all the legislators in New Jersey, and is also posted on Youtube.

JUST FOR FUN

Zippo would like you to buy something on their website, but I think this game is addictive and one may not get to shop. Just like the old show "Concentration," game you can now play it online, but with Zippo designs as the place cards. I only played once and my time probably wasn't great at 198 seconds, but all-in-all a great idea. The only glitch I had was that after the game was over and I tried to hit the shop button--it didn't take me shopping. OOPS! Hopefully they'll figure that out before the site closes down on Dec 16. Worth a look-see. Don't cheat. I've given you over 1/3 of the answers...

A STORY THAT SHOULD NOT GO UNREAD

Freddy Mutanguha is an 18 year old Rwandan genocide survivor. He loved his mother more than anything in the world. His family was a happy one. His father was quiet, but tolerant. His mother once said, “It’s not good to be selfish, you should always share with others.” Freddy's parents and 4 sisters killed during the genocide in 1994. He tells of the night they were killed:

"We couldn’t see it happening, but we could hear them screaming… They took Mum far away to kill her. Later at night, I went with another boy to find her body. We rushed there and buried her.We simply covered her with soil. So I saw my Mum’s body, but not the rest of the family. I just heard my sisters being killed. I didn’t see my father killed – people told me about it later."

Over 20 years later Freddy envisions the future, "I dream of a developed Rwanda and I’m determined to fight all genocidal ideologies. I want to see us build our nation. We can only do that if we consider the younger generations and work to remove all bad ideologies from their minds."

Read Freddy's very moving story.
Read other survivor testimony.

THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR URBAN SCHOOL TRANSFORMATION

Excellence in Urban Education Awards.

Here's a good opportunity to make people aware of the good work done in Urban schools. Winners also receive financial recognition as well. The award goals for Excellence in Urban Education are:

• Recognize the hard work, dedication, and talent of urban school educators and students;
• Educate the public about the accomplishments and potential of urban schools;
• Provide a concrete benchmark of excellence that motivates reform efforts; and
• Deepen the knowledge base of best practices for promoting urban school transformation.

Review Eligibility criteria
Apply
More information

Deadline November 30th.

HOW DO STUDENTS LEARN TODAY?

A Vision of Students Today--This is an interesting video from a Kansas State University class on college students and education. I have seen firsthand how students act in class. They are all on Facebook during the learning experience. Socializing has always been more interesting than learning. Now that there are computers in the classroom they can do both at the same time.

VOICES SELECT | FILM | DARFUR NOW

Change starts with ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

DARFUR NOW is a story of hope in the midst of one of humanity's darkest hours – a call to action for people everywhere to end the catastrophe unfolding in Darfur, Sudan. In this documentary, the struggles and achievements of six different individuals from inside Darfur and around the world bring to light the tragedy in Sudan and show how the actions of one person can make a difference to millions.

Written and directed by Ted Braun, the film explores the Darfur conflict through the first-hand experiences of Don Cheadle, Hejewa Adam, Pablo Recalde, Ahmed Mohammed Abakar, Luis Moreno-Ocampo, and Adam Sterling. Executive Produced by Jeff Skoll, Diane Weyermann, Omar Amanat, Matt Palmieri, Gary Greenebaum and Dean Schramm. Produced by Cathy Schulman, Don Cheadle and Mark Jonathan Harris. Here are examples of just 2 of the people highlighted in the film:

• At 24 years old, Adam Sterling is just of one of many young people involved in the fight to help the people of Darfur. A UCLA student whose Jewish grandmother fled Nazi Germany, Adam learned about the situation in Darfur and felt he had to do something. Despite his youth and inexperience in the political arena, he works to get a bill passed that will keep California’s State funds out of Sudan. Amazingly, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signs the bill.

• Hejewa Adam had been a mother who dreamt of going back to school until her West Darfur village was attacked and destroyed by Janjaweed militias and government forces. When she fled, her three-month-old son was beaten to death as he clung to her back. She faces two choices – abandon her home forever or join the rebels to bring justice and peace back to Sudan. Determined to help defend the Fur people of Western Darfur, Hejewa joins the rebels.

In addition to these six people, the film also features His Excellency Abldalmahmood Abdalhaleem Mohamad, Sudan’s Ambassador to the United Nations in New York. A career diplomat, His Excellency articulates Sudan’s position on the Darfur crisis from the perspective of a government that feels it has not been fairly characterized by the world’s media. The struggles of each these individuals outlines a different facet of the ongoing crisis in Darfur – but they all point to the need for immediate action. Each story is an inspiration for ordinary individuals to become involved to resolve the conflict and bring hope and peace to the people of Darfur.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

OPENS TODAY - See the Movie and Spread the Word.

Showtimes and Locations

Lincoln Plaza Center, 1886 Broadway, between 62nd and 63rd
The Angelika Film Center, 18 W. Houston St. at Mercer St.

CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATOR
Tell your lawmaker that you want the genocide to stop. Call 1-800-genocide and connect instantly with your lawmaker.

NOW FOR SOMETHING QUIRKY

Having just moved I became curious about a rarely considered accessory in nearly every bathroom—the toilet brush. Unless you have purchased a completely enclosed toilet brush, then this is generally not one of those items that gets packed and moved. Instead it is left behind for the new owner. A lovely present, really. Although come to think of it the sellers of our house took theirs with them.

Ikea has decent, basic toilet brushes for 99 cents, so we bought two. But suddenly I started observing toilet brushes in every bathroom I visited. Actually it really hit me when I saw a brush at a non-profit organization that was simply balancing on the corner of 2 walls in the stall. Most toilet brushes come in their own little holder. Even the 99 cent one did. I began to wonder, who invented the toilet brush and is it really effective?

In the age of “Googling” I thought it would be very easy to find information about the history of our cute cultural icon, but not so. Apparently this little tool has worked so well in the last-- I don’t know how many years (how much time do I really have to search this stuff out?) that there haven’t been any significant refinements made. What I did find out from about.com was that the Addis Brush Company made their first fake Christmas tree using the same machinery that made their toilet brushes! Hello capitalism!

But of course, leave it to this activist to find the toilet brush used for something altogether different. Ever hear of the Amnesty Brush-Off? Apparently the toilet brush was also used last year as an advocacy icon against the LA Mayor when he made a comment that could loosely be perceived that most Americans have immigrants cleaning their toilets. Only in America can we have one side fighting for immigration and another side protesting that they know how to use their toilet brush and then turn it into a campaign!

WENDY'S TV AD DEPICTS PEOPLE HUFFING HELIUM

The ad: Wendy's commercial shows people lined up to inhale helium, showing how their voices change. We've seen it before on sitcoms too. People are floating on the ceiling and and the voiceover says, “Filling up with just anything, that's wrong. ” Well apparently Wendy's and their ad agency think there's nothing wrong with filling up on helium.

Wendy's, well-known for its old and highly effective Where's the Beef ? ads, are now running a TV ad depicting people breathing in, also known as "huffing" helium. Here's a company whose slogan is "Wendy's is Committed to Doing What's Right" apparently unaware of the potential harm of the inappropriate “message” they are delivering to young people and adults--that it is ok and fun to intentionally inhale helium and, by extension, other chemicals and gases. Helium is an inert gas under pressure in its canister that displaces oxygen in the lungs and consequently deprives the brain of oxygen when sniffed or "huffed. " This can lead to lightheadedness, disorientation and possible loss of consciousness. This is a dangerous message to be sending. Hopefully consumer advocates will convince Wendy’s to reconsider airing this commercial.

Here's who to contact:
Corporate Office: Wendy’s One Dave Thomas BoulevardDublin, Ohio 43017 614/764 – 3100 (Ms.) Kerrii B. Anderson, Chief Executive Officer & President Denny Lynch, Senior VP, Communications Ph: 614/764 – 3553; Fax: 614/764 – 6707Bob Bertini, Director, Communications Ph: 614/764 – 3327 Fax: 614/766 - 3946

On another note...
There's a new Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University (CASA) report, The Importance of Family Dinners IV, finds that compared to teens who have frequent family dinners (five or more per week), those who have infrequent family dinners (two or fewer) are three and a half times likelier to have abused prescription drugs; three and a half times likelier to have used an illegal drug other than marijuana or prescription drugs; three times likelier to have used marijuana; more than two and a half times likelier to have used tobacco; and one and a half times likelier to have drunk alcohol.

VOICES SELECT | GREATER GOOD MAGAZINE: NEW SOURCES OF HOPE

Hillary and I have been looking for a great magazine of real giving and I think Greater Good might just fill the bill. I usually don't look at or read what I perceive as junk direct mail campaigns. This time I opened up the bright sunny package and began reading the appeal, "For too long studies of human emotion have focused on the roots of violence, aggression, and selfishness rather than kindness, compassion, and love. Scientists have charted the "fight or flight" portion of our nervous systems, but they're just starting to map out the pro-social brain. We know more about anger than compassion, more about causes for divorce than what makes long-term intimacy."

I was immediately compelled to further investigate the magazine and what I found is that it's from the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley. According to Co-editors, Jason Marsh and Dr. Dacher Keltner, the Greater Good, "fuses ground-breaking research with inspiring stories...on human happiness, virtue and well-being." Here's the best part, "it explains how to convert the research into action." Greater Good is tailor-made for my interests and clearly speaks to me.

They are now on their 7th issue and the website is terrific, with podcasts and a lot of great information.

SEEDS OF PEACE: ANNUAL CONCERT OF PEACE

On Tuesday, September 11, 2007, at 7:30 pm Musicians 4 Harmony is hosting their Sixth Annual Concert for Peace at the Symphony Space (95th Street at Broadway) in New York City. This year, Musicians 4 Harmony has elected to donate the proceeds from this concert to Seeds of Peace. The concert will include performances by legendary pianist Claude Frank and master Chinese pipa player Wu Man, in addition to many other talented musicians who will appear in this special event.

Seeds of Peace develops and empowers young leaders from regions of conflict to work towards peace through coexistence and conflict resolution. Since 1993, Seeds of Peace has graduated over 3,000 teenagers and young adults from several regions of conflict and has reached several thousand more in their communities through initiatives such as the International Camp in Maine.

Tickets are on sale now ($35, $75, $125 including reception afterwards) at 212-864-5400 and all sales will go to Seeds of Peace.

CITIZEN ACTIVISM GETS A LIFT FROM BILL CLINTON

I'm not big on promoting political figures, but I certainly think Bill Clinton's Foundation website offers a nice way to read and share a "giving story". Clinton's new book, "Giving--How Each of Us Can Change the World" is just getting launched this week with solid media backing and although I haven't seen nor read the book, of course, I think it's a great way to perpetuate action and change in our society. According to the Boston Globe Clinton's book, although scattered and dry, may be an effective resource for giving. I sure hope so.

I like the idea of giving time, money and skills to help others in need. I've been doing it myself for many years. Each of us really does have the power to change the world. Now if only more of us would truly believe it...

Clinton's book is in step with Time Magazine which features The Case for National Service. Included in the report is a commentary by Caroline Kennedy on "Making a Difference at Home," as well as another place to share how you serve the community. I've written in the past about the US Public Service Academy and they too are featured in the article. Listen to the podcast

HOW TO FUND A MILLION DOLLAR DOCUMENTARY iDEA

Well I have to say some people are very creative fund raisers. And there aren't many of them around. It took me some time to read and understand what Nirvan Mullick is doing with his 1-Second Film and this young guy is pure genius. Let me boil down what he's doing. First, Nirvan is a social entrepreneur. He's great with technology and he came up with an idea on how to create a social network that's interested in using art, technology and film to give back.

Now here's the genius part. While living in LA he began hitting the streets to pitch his 1-Second film. His pitch: for just $1 anyone could be a producer of his film. What's the film you ask? 1 Second of large-scale art murals that had been created at an event at CalArts in 2001, with 90 minutes of credits. The credits will include the story of the making of the collaborative effort and all the money donated will go to the Global Fund for Women.

My guess --it wasn't easy because most people would say 'What?-No!" or ignore him and just plain walk away. How different was he than a bum on the street? But then he ran across George Clooney and 1-Second Film history was made. Using well known advertising and sales techniques and lots of roll-up your sleeves attitude, apparently Nirvan lit the ground afire and starting pitching celebrities at places like Sundance. Meanwhile it might help to be at Sundance and win an award which can than give you the credibility to even talk to all these celebs. The celebs laughed at his idea, but some chalked up 100 bucks and more! And on camera to boot! So Nirvan now has a Foundation, he's made over $170,000 and he's raising money for a bus and road trip to pitch to Oprah.

The best part is that this is a huge coalition collaboration. Every person who gives a dollar gets to have a "Producers" profile on the website and there's now over 7000 of them. If you're feeling ambitious you can also submit your own film, create art, etc.

Back to the genius part. Website, 7000 people, $170,000, each producer can raise money on the site, rub elbows with celebrities and feel like they're part of something great and BIG. The only thing odd is that the charity doesn't have any reference to the project on their website. There's also 5 phases so this kind of social networking fun/fund raising could go on forever and gains momentum every day.

All I can say is "Geez why didn't I think of that?"

THE PROMISE OF THE REAL NEWS

I have been a member and paying subscriber of the Real News Network for over a year while they are ramping up to launch the REAL NEWS—hopefully uncompromising news.



Find out more about their "News Solutions for Change" and become a member.

We need alternatives.
They offer just that.

VOICES | SELECT| QUOTE

I recently come across a film and an article on the topic of religion. Religion has always interested me, yet I am not religious. September's issue of National Geographic has a very good article about Pakistan and it's people. The article entitled "Struggle for the Soul of Pakistan" talks about an incredible 79 year old man, Abdul Sattar Edhi who has been tending to the dead bodies which sadly litter the streets of Pakistan. He apparently built up an international foundation with a fleet of over 1000 ambulances and thousands of volunteers. Whenever terror and violence takes over the streets of Pakistan he or one of his volunteers comes forward to the scene. He is quoted saying something that strikes me to the bone,

"I'm a Muslim, but my true religion is human rights."

I really believe as important as religion seems to be in the lives of many, we should respect each other, not for our religious values, but for our human ones.

A friend recently sent me a link to what I believe is a controversial film on religion called Zeitgeist that's worth watching. As we become more globally aware of our religious differences we need to recognize how the world is becoming more polarized around extremes, both politically and religiously. That could end up being very dangerous and it's certainly something to contemplate and to find a solution to. Perhaps we should take heed of Edhi's "enlightened moderation". We can not continue to live with all the violence.

STREET ARTISTS TAKE 2!: AWESOME ANIMATION

You gotta love the web. Dig a little deeper on a subject and you find real gems. What a wonderful world we share with artists...The artist is Blu and I believe he is a genius!

VOICES SELECT | WOOSTER COLLECTIVE

Istanbul, Turkey

I just got around to looking at my July issue of Communication Arts magazine and there's a great article about street art and graffiti. It reminded me of how much I love street art.

Venice Beach, California

Ephemeral art speaks volumes about our culture. No matter what state in the US or country I go to I am always drawn to photograph art I find on walls, buildings and surfaces of utilities.

Avignon, France

Last year when I drove through Venice California, unfortunately I was unable to shoot some of the best examples that I saw there.

Hollywood, California

There's a marvelous blog, called the Wooster Collective with some of the finest street art I've ever seen and some of the very best street artists are literally in our backyard--NYC.

Bodrum, Turkey

The Wooster Collective is a must see. Definitely bookmark it.

Santa Monica, California

The art at the Wooster Collective is truly mesmerizing...

US PUBLIC SERVICE ACADEMY FEATURED ON NPR

Last year Voices of Hope Productions interviewed Dr. Chris Myers Asch about an idea of a U.S. Public Service Academy. Asch, and his colleague, Shawn Raymond, have been building support with policy-makers to establish and fund a civilian leadership university modeled after the nation's military service academies. Much like the Peace Corps, the United States Public Service Academy is dedicated to creating a corps of passionate and patriotic civilian leaders willing to devote themselves to the pursuit of academic excellence, civic engagement, and leadership through public service.

Asch says, "There's a diminished sense of public service and what we can do in this country. People don't seem to want to think big anymore. We mock federal bureaucrats and people who dedicate their lives to public service—developing a cynicism about public institutions, but we really need them. That actually inspires us. We can revolutionize the way we see this country. Why not make it happen?"

Now Sen. Hillary Clinton has put these two partners and the U.S. Public Service Academy in the spotlight. Listen to what they have to say in their interview with Melissa Brock from NPR.

Read the Voices of Hope Interview with Dr. Asch

See who else endorses the idea

WHAT DOES PEACE MEAN TO YOU?

Brighton, a fashion accessories company has created a special bracelet for the Give Peace a Chance Campaign during the month of July. Certainly Brighton with their high quality product line is interested in corporate philanthropy and giving back and they seem to have a good track record. Since 2005 they have donated nearly $814,000 for the American Heart Association’s Go Red campaign. They also created a hope and encouragement bracelet to help rid the world of breast cancer and contributed over $1.7 million from the sales of those bracelets.

When you purchase the Peace bracelet, $5 from your $50 purchase goes to one of the participating charities of your choice. The charities include: Seeds of Peace, Women for Women, US Cares and Action Against Hunger.

I purchased my bracelet at lovely store called Necessities for the Heart and love it! Brighton accessories are well-designed, and high quality wearable works of art. Find participating retailers.

MANY NEW JERSEYANS UNAWARE OF GANGS

Youth and gang violence is seen as serious and growing problem by many New Jerseyans. A majority of state residents say that gangs are either active in their town now or likely to become active in the next 5 years, although a sizable number have a blind spot about gang activity, especially in the suburbs. The latest Monmouth University Poll also found that most NJ residents feel news coverage of youth violence does more to exacerbate rather than help the problem.

What Causes Gang Activity?
Substance use (87%), the breakdown of families (86%), the availability of weapons (82%), and the presence of gangs (81%) lead the list of causes of youth violence. Socio-economic issues such as poverty (74%), lack of recreational or mentoring opportunities (62%) and lack of jobs (58%) are also important factors. The amount of violence in the popular media is considered a major factor by 51% of state residents.

The public feels the news media does little to help the problem:
* 54% say the news media tend to sensationalize its reporting of youth violence;
* 41% feel the media make the problem appear bigger than it actually is, while 26% feel that the problem is under-reported by the media;
* 57% say that media coverage of violent acts encourages others to do the same; and
* 70% say the media do not devote enough coverage to stories about the causes of youth violence.

The Role of the News Media
The news media plays an important role in informing the public about youth violence. However, NJ residents give newspapers, radio and TV news generally negative reviews in how they handle this function. A majority of 54% believe that the media tends to sensationalize its reporting of youth violence episodes, compared to only 37% who feel they report these events objectively.

Furthermore, residents are split on whether the media’s overall coverage of the youth violence issue accurately portrays the extent of the problem. A plurality of 41% feel that the media make it appear that youth violence and gang activity is a bigger problem than it actually is, compared to 26% who feel that the problem is under-reported by the media. Only 21% feel the news media accurately portrays the extent of the problem.

New Jerseyans also feel that current news reporting on youth violence tends to do more harm than good. Specifically, 57% feel that media coverage of violent acts encourages others to do the same as a way to gain notoriety among their peers. Only 40% disagree with this view.

Residents would like to see the media spend more time covering stories that counter typical images of youth violence. Specifically, overwhelming majorities say the media does not devote enough coverage to stories about urban youth who do positive things in their communities (84%), stories about people and programs that help prevent violence and gangs (83%), and stories about the causes of youth violence (70%).

51% of parents asked never talked about gangs with their kids.

VOICES | SELECT | HBO's FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS

One of the funniest and the most creative shows I've seen in a long time is HBO's Flight of the Conchords. It merges sitcom humor with MTV style music video together in one—and it's just great. The show is about two New Zealand musicians who along with their agent try to get gigs to make it in the Big City. Their fan base consists of one married groupie who follows them when they leave the house. When they get mugged they just break into a song. There's only 4 episodes so far, but I'm looking forward to seeing more. Would love to get their music. Really terrific.

The Bratz Movie. Fishnet Stockings and Feather Boas?

The big-headed, big lipped, wide-eyed and sexy (some call slutty) Bratz dolls, a new generation of dolls developed in 2001 are making their way to the large screen this summer. According to the American Psychological Association (APA) "Bratz dolls come dressed in sexualized clothing such as miniskirts, fishnet stockings, and feather boas ... It is worrisome when dolls designed specifically for 4- to 8-year-olds are associated with an objectified adult sexuality." The APA created a Task force on the Sexualization of Girls.

Bratz dolls offer an extraordinary case study for “Passion for Fashion” doll branding and media in the U.S. They are well represented in Wikipedia with their development and multi-media history—wonder how their entry got there. The team at the toy company has been very sharp at promoting these dolls with 2D animation movies and continuing to come up with new figures including boyfriends for the dolls. Ok, so how’s this all different than Barbie and Ken? It’s really not. Competition is healthy and Bratz is using an entire arsenal of media ventures to promote the brand. No different than any other consumer product.

But let’s get back to the movie. So now Bratz dolls are turning real. The Bratz movie is all about being anything you want to be—not being in a clique. Perhaps that’s oversimplifying. Oh--they also want to win a talent contest. The movie has Angelie Jolie’s father, Jon Voight as the school Principal and American Idol’s Paula Abdul. Of course there’s a soundtrack, including a Black Eyed Peas song, Express Yourself. According to the producer, Avi Arad "There's nothing in the movie you wouldn't want your 5-year-old to see, there are a lot of great life lessons." It all happens August 3rd. According to Chelsea Staub, 18, a Hollywood newcomer, "I think parents will be impressed." Hmm. I wonder.

WHAT'S THE BEST STUFF IN THE WORLD?

Two web developers in Melbourne, Australia are passionate about making stuff. So they created an open ended social-opinion-wiki web so that people can share their opinions on what "they think is the best stuff in the world." It's a cross between social networking, Martha Stewart's "Good Thing" and the Million Dollar Home Page concept that a college student came up with to pay for his tuition. If Best Stuff in the World can really get consumer participation it offers good corporate marketing and advertising possibilities in the future. For now, add your own "Best Stuff," and watch while this site grows.

1673 people think Firefox is the best thing in the world
209 people think finding money in a trouser pocket is the best thing in the world
165 people think a smile is the best thing in the world
92 people think IKEA is the best thing in the world
10 people, plus myself think a kiss is the best thing in the world

What do you think?

VOICES SELECT| THEATER

I've wanted to write about Spring Awakening ever since I heard Duncan Sheik interviewed on NPR a week ago. Mind you I haven't seen the play personally, but I love the story and concept. Then I was reminded again when I watched the first hour of the Tony Awards and it was winning left and right. I didn't watch to the end, but this play won 8 Tony Awards including Best Musical. I’m not at all surprised.

Spring Awakening takes its inspiration from one of literature’s most controversial masterpieces – a work so daring in its depiction of teenage self-discovery, it was banned from the stage and not performed in its complete form in English for nearly 100 years.

This story is about 2 teen lovers, living in a repressed society. It speaks about taboo subjects like suicide, abuse and abortion and is performed to contemporary, hip music. It reminds me of the tone in RENT which I have seen three times and have the soundtrack on my iPod and on CD. I favor theater, art and media that speak to youth in original and modern ways. Spring Awakening appears to ‘fit-the-bill’ -- fresh and innovative, and I think we can all applaud that, especially when there are so many remakes of old works. It is truly refreshing to see theatrical Producers and Directors taking on more original pieces rather than rehashing the tried-and-true productions. Those certainly have their place, but artists should be responsible to show the present culture--our time-frame, or at least adopt/adapt the art within our modern culture. That is all we have to leave behind for future generations to visualize the place we are in now-- ten years into the Millennium.

Adapting old stories so that they resonate contemporaneously is difficult and risky business. But with originality, creative producers can serve up entertainment and inspiration to people of all ages. Maybe they will even go one step further and offer solutions. I’m sure Spring Awakenings is well worth the ticket to a few hours of fun and enjoyment.

VOICES SELECT | TECHNOLOGY COMMENTARY

Susan Ellis of Energize Inc. has put together a great little article on how Non-profit's can use technology. The benefits of Flickr, podcasting, blogging and the use of social networking spaces are well encapsulated in one article. Well worth the read.

PSAs PROMOTE CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

According to the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) during the last twenty-five years there has been a dramatic decrease in voter turnout among 18-24 year-olds. In addition, a 2002 report conducted by The Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning & Engagement found that 57 percent of American youth aged 15-25 are completely disengaged from civic life and politics. Furthermore, adults who began volunteering as youth are twice as likely to volunteer as those who did not volunteer when they were younger, according to a 2001 report from the Independent Sector and Youth Service America.

New survey reveals that 95 percent of young adults believe that..."What goes around comes around.

The PSAs aim to encourage young adults to become involved in their communities in any way they can, including voting in local elections, volunteering in their spare time or reading the newspaper and discussing current events with friends. The television, radio, print, outdoor and Web ads humorously show audiences what happens to people when they are not civically engaged and encourage them to "get good karma."

The campaign uses humor to communicate to young adults that acting on what is important to them will protect them from having "bad karma," or negative consequences. All of the PSAs end with the tagline "Stay on the universe's good side. Volunteer. Vote. Get involved." The PSAs direct audiences to visit www.GetGoodKarma.org, a new interactive website, for tips on how to become civically engaged.

VOICES SELECT | FILM | MOTHERHOOD MANIFESTO

Women shouldn't be discriminated against simply because they are mothers... but they are! Hear about true experiences of American mothers, and learn how shared problems can be solved. MomsRising’s intent is to engage millions of women and other caregivers, to educate the public about the problems facing mothers and families, and to provide avenues for civic engagement, as well as common-sense solutions to shared issues.

"Despite all the rhetoric about being family-friendly, we have structured a society that is decidedly unfriendly... What's missing now is a movement. What's missing now is an organization. That's why MomsRising is so important." -- Senator Barack Obama, 9/28/06

“Today, two-thirds of all moms also work outside the home…and government must take your side.” --President George Bush

Find out more about Mom'sRising, the grassroots organization mobilizing mothers across the country. Order the video