I've sort of neglected this blog for some time now, but I feel with so much going on in our world, I can't just sit back and listen to both sides of the political spectrum unload a bunch of...um, stuff...on us.
Today is about about taxes...for those out there who've wondered how things basically work, here's a real simple version. I didn't write this, but it's pretty good.
Sometimes politicians, journalists, and others exclaim; "It's just a tax cut
for the rich!" and it is just accepted to be fact, without questioning it.
But what does that really mean?
Just in case you are not completely clear on this issue, I hope the
following will help. Please read it carefully.
Let's put tax cuts in terms everyone can understand.
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for dinner and the bill for all ten
comes to $100.
If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like
this:
The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
The fifth would pay $1.
The sixth would pay $3.
The seventh would pay $7.
The eighth would pay $12.
The ninth would pay $18.
The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.
So, that's what they decided to do.
The ten men ate dinner in the restaurant every day and seemed quite happy
with the arrangement, until on day, the owner threw them a curve.
"Since you are all such good customers," he said, "I'm going to reduce the
cost of your daily meal by $20." Dinner for the ten now cost just $80.
The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the
first four men were unaffected. They would still eat for free. But what
about the other six men - the paying customers? How could they divide the
$20 windfall so that everyone would get his 'fair share?'
They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that
from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end
up being paid to eat their meal.
So, the restaurant owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each
man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the
amounts each should pay. And so:
The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings).
The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33% savings).
The seventh now pay $5 instead of $7 (28% savings).
The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).
The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 (22% savings).
The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings).
Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to
eat for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare
their savings.
"I only got a dollar out of the $20," declared the sixth man. He pointed to
the tenth man," but he got $10!"
"Yeah, that's right," exclaimed the fifth man. "I only saved a dollar, too.
It's unfair that he got ten times more than me!"
"That's true!!" shouted the seventh man. "Why should he get $10 back when I
got only two? The wealthy get all the breaks!"
"Wait a minute," yelled the first four men in unison. "We didn't get
anything at all. The system exploits the poor!"
The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.
The next night the tenth man didn't show up for dinner, so the nine sat down
and ate without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered
something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them for
even half of the bill!
And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax
system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from
a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they
just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start eating overseas
where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier"
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Monday, April 20, 2009
I wish I had written this...
This was sent to me today by someone wiser then me...I couldn't agree with this more! Enjoy.
To All My Valued Employees,
There have been some rumblings around the office about the future of this company, and more specifically, your job. As you know, the economy has changed for the worse and presents many challenges. However, the good news is this: The economy doesn't pose a threat to your job. What does threaten your job however, is the changing political landscape in this country. However, let me tell you some little tidbits of fact which might help you decide what is in your best interests.
First, while it is easy to spew rhetoric that casts employers against employees, you have to understand that for every business owner there is a Back Story. This back story is often neglected and overshadowed by what you see and hear. Sure, you see me park my Mercedes outside. You've seen my big home at last years Christmas party. I'm sure all these flashy icons of luxury conjure up some idealized thoughts about my life.
However, what you don't see is the BACK STORY:
I started this company 28 years ago. At that time, I lived in a 300 square foot studio apartment for 3 years. My entire living apartment was converted into an office so I could put forth 100% effort into building a company, which by the way, would eventually employ you. My diet consisted of Ramen Pride noodles because every dollar I spent went back into this company. I drove a rusty Toyota Corolla with a defective transmission. I didn't have time to date. Often times, I stayed home on weekends, while my friends went out drinking and partying. In fact, I was married to my business -- hard work, discipline, and sacrifice.
Meanwhile, my friends got jobs. They worked 40 hours a week and made a modest $50K a year and spent every dime they earned. They drove flashy cars and lived in expensive homes and wore fancy designer clothes. Instead of hitting the Nordstrom's for the latest hot fashion item, I was trolling through the discount store extracting any clothing item that didn't look like it was birthed in the 70's. My friends refinanced their mortgages and lived a life of luxury. I, however, did not. I put my time, my money, and my life into a business with a vision that eventually, some day, I too, will be able to afford these luxuries my friends supposedly had.
So, while you physically arrive at the office at 9am, mentally check in at about noon, and then leave at 5pm, I don't. There is no "off" button for me. When you leave the office, you are done and you have a weekend all to yourself. I unfortunately do not have the freedom. I eat, and breathe this company every minute of the day. There is no rest. There is no weekend. There is no happy hour. Every day this business is attached to my hip like a 1 year-old special-needs child. You, of course, only see the fruits of that garden -- the nice house, the Mercedes, the vacations... you never realize the Back Story and the sacrifices I've made.
Now, the economy is falling apart and I, the guy that made all the right decisions and saved his money, have to bail-out all the people who didn't. The people that overspent their paychecks suddenly feel entitled to the same luxuries that I earned and sacrificed a decade of my life for.
Yes, business ownership has is benefits but the price I've paid is steep and not without wounds. Unfortunately, the cost of running this business, and employing you, is starting to eclipse the threshold of marginal benefit and let me tell you why:
I am being taxed to death and the government thinks I don't pay enough. I have state taxes. Federal taxes. Property taxes. Sales and use taxes. Payroll taxes. Workers compensation taxes. Unemployment taxes. Taxes on taxes. I have to hire a tax man to manage all these taxes and then guess what? I have to pay taxes for employing him.Government mandates and regulations and all the accounting that goes with it, now occupy most of my time. On Oct 15th, I wrote a check to the US Treasury for $288,000 for quarterly taxes (extrapolated means I paid over 1 Million in taxes on an income of about 2.5 to 3 Million). You know what my "stimulus" check was? Zero. Nada. Zilch.
The question I have is this: Who is stimulating the economy? Me, the guy who has provided 14 people good paying jobs and serves over 2,200,000 people per year with a flourishing business? Or, the single mother sitting at home pregnant with her fourth child waiting for her next welfare check? Obviously, government feels the latter is the economic stimulus of this country.
The fact is, if I deducted (Read: Stole) 50% of your paycheck you'd quit and you wouldn't work here. I mean, whyshould you? That's nuts. Who wants to get rewarded only 50% of their hard work? Well, I agree which is why your job is in jeopardy.
Here is what many of you don't understand ... to stimulate the economy you need to stimulate what runs the economy. Had suddenly government mandated to me that I didn't need to pay taxes, guess what? Instead of depositing that $288,000 into the Washington black-hole, I would have spent it, hired more employees, and generated substantial economic growth. My employees would have enjoyed the wealth of that tax cut in the form of promotions and better salaries. And they would have more money to spend thus creating more jobs. Wow, sounds like Reaganomics. But you can forget it now.
When you have a comatose man on the verge of death, you don't defibrillate and shock his thumb thinking that will bring him back to life, do you? Or, do you defibrillate his heart? Business is at the heart of America and always has been. To restart it, you must stimulate it, not kill it. Suddenly, the power brokers in Washington believe the poor of America are the essential drivers of the American economic engine. Nothing could be further from the truth and his is the type of change you can keep.So where am I going with all this?
It's quite simple.If any new taxes are levied on me, or my company, my reaction will be swift and simple. I'll fire you. I'll fireyour co-workers. You can then plead with the government to pay for your mortgage, your SUV, and your child's future. Frankly, it isn't my problem any more.
Then, I will close this company down, move to another country, and retire. You see, I'm done. I'm done with a country that penalizes the productive and gives to the unproductive. Mymotivation to work and to provide jobs will be destroyed, and with it, will be my citizenship.
So, if you lose your job, it won't be at the hands of the economy; it will be at the hands of a political hurricane thatswept through this country, steam rolled the constitution, and will have changed its landscape forever. If that happens, you can find me sitting on a beach, retired, and with no employees to worry about....
Signed, THE BOSS
To All My Valued Employees,
There have been some rumblings around the office about the future of this company, and more specifically, your job. As you know, the economy has changed for the worse and presents many challenges. However, the good news is this: The economy doesn't pose a threat to your job. What does threaten your job however, is the changing political landscape in this country. However, let me tell you some little tidbits of fact which might help you decide what is in your best interests.
First, while it is easy to spew rhetoric that casts employers against employees, you have to understand that for every business owner there is a Back Story. This back story is often neglected and overshadowed by what you see and hear. Sure, you see me park my Mercedes outside. You've seen my big home at last years Christmas party. I'm sure all these flashy icons of luxury conjure up some idealized thoughts about my life.
However, what you don't see is the BACK STORY:
I started this company 28 years ago. At that time, I lived in a 300 square foot studio apartment for 3 years. My entire living apartment was converted into an office so I could put forth 100% effort into building a company, which by the way, would eventually employ you. My diet consisted of Ramen Pride noodles because every dollar I spent went back into this company. I drove a rusty Toyota Corolla with a defective transmission. I didn't have time to date. Often times, I stayed home on weekends, while my friends went out drinking and partying. In fact, I was married to my business -- hard work, discipline, and sacrifice.
Meanwhile, my friends got jobs. They worked 40 hours a week and made a modest $50K a year and spent every dime they earned. They drove flashy cars and lived in expensive homes and wore fancy designer clothes. Instead of hitting the Nordstrom's for the latest hot fashion item, I was trolling through the discount store extracting any clothing item that didn't look like it was birthed in the 70's. My friends refinanced their mortgages and lived a life of luxury. I, however, did not. I put my time, my money, and my life into a business with a vision that eventually, some day, I too, will be able to afford these luxuries my friends supposedly had.
So, while you physically arrive at the office at 9am, mentally check in at about noon, and then leave at 5pm, I don't. There is no "off" button for me. When you leave the office, you are done and you have a weekend all to yourself. I unfortunately do not have the freedom. I eat, and breathe this company every minute of the day. There is no rest. There is no weekend. There is no happy hour. Every day this business is attached to my hip like a 1 year-old special-needs child. You, of course, only see the fruits of that garden -- the nice house, the Mercedes, the vacations... you never realize the Back Story and the sacrifices I've made.
Now, the economy is falling apart and I, the guy that made all the right decisions and saved his money, have to bail-out all the people who didn't. The people that overspent their paychecks suddenly feel entitled to the same luxuries that I earned and sacrificed a decade of my life for.
Yes, business ownership has is benefits but the price I've paid is steep and not without wounds. Unfortunately, the cost of running this business, and employing you, is starting to eclipse the threshold of marginal benefit and let me tell you why:
I am being taxed to death and the government thinks I don't pay enough. I have state taxes. Federal taxes. Property taxes. Sales and use taxes. Payroll taxes. Workers compensation taxes. Unemployment taxes. Taxes on taxes. I have to hire a tax man to manage all these taxes and then guess what? I have to pay taxes for employing him.Government mandates and regulations and all the accounting that goes with it, now occupy most of my time. On Oct 15th, I wrote a check to the US Treasury for $288,000 for quarterly taxes (extrapolated means I paid over 1 Million in taxes on an income of about 2.5 to 3 Million). You know what my "stimulus" check was? Zero. Nada. Zilch.
The question I have is this: Who is stimulating the economy? Me, the guy who has provided 14 people good paying jobs and serves over 2,200,000 people per year with a flourishing business? Or, the single mother sitting at home pregnant with her fourth child waiting for her next welfare check? Obviously, government feels the latter is the economic stimulus of this country.
The fact is, if I deducted (Read: Stole) 50% of your paycheck you'd quit and you wouldn't work here. I mean, whyshould you? That's nuts. Who wants to get rewarded only 50% of their hard work? Well, I agree which is why your job is in jeopardy.
Here is what many of you don't understand ... to stimulate the economy you need to stimulate what runs the economy. Had suddenly government mandated to me that I didn't need to pay taxes, guess what? Instead of depositing that $288,000 into the Washington black-hole, I would have spent it, hired more employees, and generated substantial economic growth. My employees would have enjoyed the wealth of that tax cut in the form of promotions and better salaries. And they would have more money to spend thus creating more jobs. Wow, sounds like Reaganomics. But you can forget it now.
When you have a comatose man on the verge of death, you don't defibrillate and shock his thumb thinking that will bring him back to life, do you? Or, do you defibrillate his heart? Business is at the heart of America and always has been. To restart it, you must stimulate it, not kill it. Suddenly, the power brokers in Washington believe the poor of America are the essential drivers of the American economic engine. Nothing could be further from the truth and his is the type of change you can keep.So where am I going with all this?
It's quite simple.If any new taxes are levied on me, or my company, my reaction will be swift and simple. I'll fire you. I'll fireyour co-workers. You can then plead with the government to pay for your mortgage, your SUV, and your child's future. Frankly, it isn't my problem any more.
Then, I will close this company down, move to another country, and retire. You see, I'm done. I'm done with a country that penalizes the productive and gives to the unproductive. Mymotivation to work and to provide jobs will be destroyed, and with it, will be my citizenship.
So, if you lose your job, it won't be at the hands of the economy; it will be at the hands of a political hurricane thatswept through this country, steam rolled the constitution, and will have changed its landscape forever. If that happens, you can find me sitting on a beach, retired, and with no employees to worry about....
Signed, THE BOSS
Monday, March 16, 2009
Hello, Pot? This is Kettle...
So here we all are…close to 2 months in to the new administration. A Presidential administration that used the word and idea of “hope” during its run up to the election, that called on a new idea of politics in America – one in which the division that has polarized our nation would dissipate and in it’s place would take root a sense of pride and bi-partisanship.
Well, that seemed like quite an ideal. It’s a wonderful notion. Those on the left who had been forced to take a back seat for so long have finally found themselves in the driver’s seat. And with the former President back on the ranch in Texas, they could finally exact the change they have longed for.
Anyone remember the last eight years? Anyone remember the stories and outcry about how the Bush administration did their best to discredit its “enemies” and those who disagreed with its policies? I do…
I read this article today, and all I can say is well, well, well.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0309/19846.html
I would encourage you to read this. Now, maybe you’re someone on the left side of politics – good for you. I hold nothing against you for that. However, I would encourage you, as I have mentioned many times - stay informed. It’s groups such as the one listed the article that attempt to take information and “…wage spin and policy wars throughout the day…”
Their goal is to attack those who oppose the President’s plans, and bring them down. Hello, Pot? This is Kettle – you’re black! I seem to recall many on the left crying out that they were being labeled traitors for questioning Bush – they cried out how it was more patriotic to stand up and question the Presidential administration. And you know what – they are right. We as citizens should do exactly that.
But now if you question this new administration, be ready for battle. Be ready to have “coordinated attacks”. Is this part of the “hope” Obama talked about, or part of the new politics?
I know that the White House has no “direct” part in this group. But it also isn’t doing anything to stop them. I would like to see President Obama step up and tell this group that he doesn’t need or want them. That he must let the American people make their own decisions, form their own opinions, and that it’s his responsibility to sell his policy without spin or attacks.
And lest you think that I am just coming down on the left, those on the right must be accountable as well. They must stand up and say what they believe, while at the same time not attacking and twisting facts to make a case.
I can’t say it enough people…these are hard, difficult times. For those of us under 40, our future is being shaped right now, and it’s up to us to make hard decisions about who we want to lead us and how they should do it. We all have busy lives; we all have things that we are trying to accomplish. But this is something that we must be part of. You need to be informed, you need to look beyond the spin, beyond the partisanship, look beyond ideals you hold for no other reason then you’ve been taught from some talking head on TV or voice on the radio that unless you think this way or that way on an issue, you’re not a good member to your political party.
I say that if you just toe the party line, just follow what the spin masters say, you are more a detriment to this nation then an asset. You are making the problem worse, and making our future worse. Educate yourselves. Take the time to learn the facts. If others disagree with you, hear them out – listen to what they have to say then decide if you think they are right or wrong, but never stop learning, never stop listening. Be informed people…be informed.
Well, that seemed like quite an ideal. It’s a wonderful notion. Those on the left who had been forced to take a back seat for so long have finally found themselves in the driver’s seat. And with the former President back on the ranch in Texas, they could finally exact the change they have longed for.
Anyone remember the last eight years? Anyone remember the stories and outcry about how the Bush administration did their best to discredit its “enemies” and those who disagreed with its policies? I do…
I read this article today, and all I can say is well, well, well.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0309/19846.html
I would encourage you to read this. Now, maybe you’re someone on the left side of politics – good for you. I hold nothing against you for that. However, I would encourage you, as I have mentioned many times - stay informed. It’s groups such as the one listed the article that attempt to take information and “…wage spin and policy wars throughout the day…”
Their goal is to attack those who oppose the President’s plans, and bring them down. Hello, Pot? This is Kettle – you’re black! I seem to recall many on the left crying out that they were being labeled traitors for questioning Bush – they cried out how it was more patriotic to stand up and question the Presidential administration. And you know what – they are right. We as citizens should do exactly that.
But now if you question this new administration, be ready for battle. Be ready to have “coordinated attacks”. Is this part of the “hope” Obama talked about, or part of the new politics?
I know that the White House has no “direct” part in this group. But it also isn’t doing anything to stop them. I would like to see President Obama step up and tell this group that he doesn’t need or want them. That he must let the American people make their own decisions, form their own opinions, and that it’s his responsibility to sell his policy without spin or attacks.
And lest you think that I am just coming down on the left, those on the right must be accountable as well. They must stand up and say what they believe, while at the same time not attacking and twisting facts to make a case.
I can’t say it enough people…these are hard, difficult times. For those of us under 40, our future is being shaped right now, and it’s up to us to make hard decisions about who we want to lead us and how they should do it. We all have busy lives; we all have things that we are trying to accomplish. But this is something that we must be part of. You need to be informed, you need to look beyond the spin, beyond the partisanship, look beyond ideals you hold for no other reason then you’ve been taught from some talking head on TV or voice on the radio that unless you think this way or that way on an issue, you’re not a good member to your political party.
I say that if you just toe the party line, just follow what the spin masters say, you are more a detriment to this nation then an asset. You are making the problem worse, and making our future worse. Educate yourselves. Take the time to learn the facts. If others disagree with you, hear them out – listen to what they have to say then decide if you think they are right or wrong, but never stop learning, never stop listening. Be informed people…be informed.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Deep in the Heart of Texas
Some of you know that I’ve been in Texas this past week on a shoot. While I’ve been to Texas before, I’ve never really spent any time here. There’s a lot to like about the Lone Star state, but there’s also a lot of crazy here too.
First off, I’m staying in a small town about an hour and a half outside Dallas. If there is a center to the middle of no where, go about another mile and you’ll find Athens, Texas. Athens is your typical American small town – it’s got quiet streets lined with mom and pop run shops, old buildings, a town hall that seems to be in the center of town, and of course convicts in orange and white striped outfits picking up trash and doing work around town. The fact that convicts do work in the community doesn’t surprise me – the fact that they still wear the striped outfits…that did.
This is a dry county, which means that alcohol is only served in certain places, and much like Utah, if you want to drink it you need to be a member of the place your at. I’m not exactly sure what I’m now a member of, or even what kind of benefits it provides other then being able to have a Heineken at the local Applebee’s, but I’m now a member here. I’ve even got a card to prove it. This all strikes me as crazy because this is a state where it’s really easy to carry a concealed weapon. From what I’m told, people still carry side arms here, in holsters, much like the old west. So while it’s no problem carrying a gun here, having a beer with dinner is something that needs to be regulated and restricted. But then maybe that’s a good thing…guns and booze doesn’t usually make a good combination – I guess they had to make something more difficult. I’m personally glad to know that they chose alcohol – I mean, guns are far less dangerous.
I had a lunch with someone the other day at a really good BBQ place, and he mentioned to me that he had recently been over to a friend’s house and had some pork. Story goes his friend was out in his yard and saw a wild pig. So he did what any good Texan would do – he shot it and cooked it up. Now…couple things about that story disturb me. First off – “wild” pig. I’m in a state where there are “wild” pigs. Have pigs been wild in, oh I don’t know, that last 100 years? Are there huge herds of pigs somewhere? I know there are still horses and other animals in the wild…but pigs?
The other thing is that he shot it and ate it. Call me crazy, but I still think of a pig as a filthy animal (thanks Quentin Tarrentino!). Don’t get me wrong, I love bacon and pulled pork, but I like to think when I’m eating it that it’s coming from some clean pig from some nice farm. Do I know that’s even crazier then the “wild” pig – yes. But it’s what keeps me going – let me enjoy the lie. But I would never eat some pig that’s been roaming the state of Texas. Who knows what God-awful stuff it’s in ingested.
Finally…smoking. Walk into any restaurant here and you get asked – smoking or non-smoking. Did this ever really work? Can you really not smell the smoke throughout the place? I walked into the aforementioned BBQ place and walked past a table with a family eating…mom, dad, daughter, and new born baby. Mom and dad both were smoking away, a mere 2 feet away from what I’m assuming is their new born baby. Are you kidding me? Who does this? I really wanted to ask them if they thought all that smoke was good for their baby, but then thought twice – they may be packing heat.
I won’t get into some of the good ole boy conversations I’ve heard…like the two guys talking about Obama’s presidency – I think you can figure out on what they were saying. But I will say that while I think this state has a lot of crazy stuff (for a SoCal guy like myself), it also has some really amazing scenery, and some very nice people. You’d be hard pressed to find more friendly people then hear in Texas.
First off, I’m staying in a small town about an hour and a half outside Dallas. If there is a center to the middle of no where, go about another mile and you’ll find Athens, Texas. Athens is your typical American small town – it’s got quiet streets lined with mom and pop run shops, old buildings, a town hall that seems to be in the center of town, and of course convicts in orange and white striped outfits picking up trash and doing work around town. The fact that convicts do work in the community doesn’t surprise me – the fact that they still wear the striped outfits…that did.
This is a dry county, which means that alcohol is only served in certain places, and much like Utah, if you want to drink it you need to be a member of the place your at. I’m not exactly sure what I’m now a member of, or even what kind of benefits it provides other then being able to have a Heineken at the local Applebee’s, but I’m now a member here. I’ve even got a card to prove it. This all strikes me as crazy because this is a state where it’s really easy to carry a concealed weapon. From what I’m told, people still carry side arms here, in holsters, much like the old west. So while it’s no problem carrying a gun here, having a beer with dinner is something that needs to be regulated and restricted. But then maybe that’s a good thing…guns and booze doesn’t usually make a good combination – I guess they had to make something more difficult. I’m personally glad to know that they chose alcohol – I mean, guns are far less dangerous.
I had a lunch with someone the other day at a really good BBQ place, and he mentioned to me that he had recently been over to a friend’s house and had some pork. Story goes his friend was out in his yard and saw a wild pig. So he did what any good Texan would do – he shot it and cooked it up. Now…couple things about that story disturb me. First off – “wild” pig. I’m in a state where there are “wild” pigs. Have pigs been wild in, oh I don’t know, that last 100 years? Are there huge herds of pigs somewhere? I know there are still horses and other animals in the wild…but pigs?
The other thing is that he shot it and ate it. Call me crazy, but I still think of a pig as a filthy animal (thanks Quentin Tarrentino!). Don’t get me wrong, I love bacon and pulled pork, but I like to think when I’m eating it that it’s coming from some clean pig from some nice farm. Do I know that’s even crazier then the “wild” pig – yes. But it’s what keeps me going – let me enjoy the lie. But I would never eat some pig that’s been roaming the state of Texas. Who knows what God-awful stuff it’s in ingested.
Finally…smoking. Walk into any restaurant here and you get asked – smoking or non-smoking. Did this ever really work? Can you really not smell the smoke throughout the place? I walked into the aforementioned BBQ place and walked past a table with a family eating…mom, dad, daughter, and new born baby. Mom and dad both were smoking away, a mere 2 feet away from what I’m assuming is their new born baby. Are you kidding me? Who does this? I really wanted to ask them if they thought all that smoke was good for their baby, but then thought twice – they may be packing heat.
I won’t get into some of the good ole boy conversations I’ve heard…like the two guys talking about Obama’s presidency – I think you can figure out on what they were saying. But I will say that while I think this state has a lot of crazy stuff (for a SoCal guy like myself), it also has some really amazing scenery, and some very nice people. You’d be hard pressed to find more friendly people then hear in Texas.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Sundance 2009 Days 5 & 6
Well, Sundance 2009 is nearly coming to a close. With only a couple days left, the streets are starting to become less crowded, and finding a table at the local restaurants is easier then just 3 days ago.
Over the last couple days I've seen a handful of films, some of which have been really good - others, well, others have been either okay or just bad. I did see 2 films which stood out over the last couple days. Arlan Faber was a nice, somewhat commercial film starring Jeff Daniels and Lauren Graham. While far from edgy, it was nice to see a well acted, well scripted, and interesting film. While it's not going to make huge box office money, it was fun and enjoyable.
The other film that I really liked was In The Loop. A story about America and England trying to come to grips about it's policy regarding an unnamed war, it features not top leaders but State Department workers on both sides of the pond going back and forth about who knows what and who will admit to what. I can honestly say I don't ever remember laughing so hard at a film here, and one that I can't wait to see again. The writing was sharp and very witty. While it doesn't star any A list people, it doesn't matter...it had some of the funniest dialogue I've seen in a long time.
On another note, while I've been here in Park City solo this past week, I've had my wonderful neighbors to keep me company. Jake and his girlfriend, whose name I don't know, have waken me up these past few nights, and I've been able to hear all about the wild parties they've attended. Last night they came in around 4 AM, and boy did they have some stories.
Before I go on, I should make one thing quite clear - I don't really know them. In fact, I've never seen them. The walls in my room are so thin that I can hear every footstep they make. I hear them go to the bathroom, take a shower, talk about whatever it is they talk about, and yes...I even hear them have sex - usually twice every night. Jake must have lots of stamina!
Jake's girlfriend is the louder of the two - in conversation that is...and also in the first thing that came to your mind. But whenever she's in the room, I can hear her as if she's standing 5 feet away. I wouldn't mind it so much if they came home at a earlier hour. Last night they got in at 4 AM and their antics kept me awake until 5 or so.
As tomorrow is my last day here, I'll do my yearly tradition. Morning screening followed by breakfast at The Eating Establishment. It's one of my favorite places to eat here in town, and it's also one of the places that many deals have been struck. As for tonight, I'm still not sure what I'll do, but I'll find something.
Over the last couple days I've seen a handful of films, some of which have been really good - others, well, others have been either okay or just bad. I did see 2 films which stood out over the last couple days. Arlan Faber was a nice, somewhat commercial film starring Jeff Daniels and Lauren Graham. While far from edgy, it was nice to see a well acted, well scripted, and interesting film. While it's not going to make huge box office money, it was fun and enjoyable.
The other film that I really liked was In The Loop. A story about America and England trying to come to grips about it's policy regarding an unnamed war, it features not top leaders but State Department workers on both sides of the pond going back and forth about who knows what and who will admit to what. I can honestly say I don't ever remember laughing so hard at a film here, and one that I can't wait to see again. The writing was sharp and very witty. While it doesn't star any A list people, it doesn't matter...it had some of the funniest dialogue I've seen in a long time.
On another note, while I've been here in Park City solo this past week, I've had my wonderful neighbors to keep me company. Jake and his girlfriend, whose name I don't know, have waken me up these past few nights, and I've been able to hear all about the wild parties they've attended. Last night they came in around 4 AM, and boy did they have some stories.
Before I go on, I should make one thing quite clear - I don't really know them. In fact, I've never seen them. The walls in my room are so thin that I can hear every footstep they make. I hear them go to the bathroom, take a shower, talk about whatever it is they talk about, and yes...I even hear them have sex - usually twice every night. Jake must have lots of stamina!
Jake's girlfriend is the louder of the two - in conversation that is...and also in the first thing that came to your mind. But whenever she's in the room, I can hear her as if she's standing 5 feet away. I wouldn't mind it so much if they came home at a earlier hour. Last night they got in at 4 AM and their antics kept me awake until 5 or so.
As tomorrow is my last day here, I'll do my yearly tradition. Morning screening followed by breakfast at The Eating Establishment. It's one of my favorite places to eat here in town, and it's also one of the places that many deals have been struck. As for tonight, I'm still not sure what I'll do, but I'll find something.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Sundance 2009 Days 3 and 4 with some other stuff...
Well, I missed a day, but that's only because I've been super busy with screenings. I had four the day before yesterday, and 5 yesterday. All in all, I did see some interesting films, but only one really stood out.
The Cove is a documentary about dolphins that are killed in a small Japanese town. They ruthlessly kill 23,000 every year, and do it out of site of the public. A group of activists went in commando style and documented the event. It was one of the most horrific things I've ever witnessed. As you all know, I'm not one of those tree-hugging, recycle everything down to your underwear, save the spotted owl kind of people, but this had a profound affect on me. I mean come on people - who doesn't love Flipper! http://www.savejapandolphins.org/covelearnmore.php
But on to lighter fare - I saw a film yesterday directed by John Kransinski - you may know him as Jim from The Office. It was an interesting film and a departure from what you'd expect from him. While I didn't think it was a great film, it was interesting and tried to make insights into post-feminism masculinity. It's not something you'd want to take a date to, or attend if you're looking for a bright happy sunshine movie. John was there, and seemed very nice. I saw him later in the day attending a film Ed Helms (Andy from The Office) was in.
For those of you reader who normally attend this festival and are feeling bad about missing out this year, I wouldn't feel too bad. It really is a odd year. From what I hear, there are few films that have tremendous buzz. People are talking about a few films more then others, but there is no Little Miss Sunshine from what I can tell this year. Main Street doesn't seem quite as busy, and the give aways are few and far between.Screenings are crowded, but it does seem like wait listers always have a shot at getting in. We'll see how the back of the festival goes, but from the look of the first half, you haven't missed too much.
Finally, I'd be remiss if I didn't say something about the transition of power our country went through yesterday. I know that many of you voted for Obama, and I've no problem with that. For what it's worth, I've been critical of both Bush as a president and McCain as a candidate - I think we on the right can, and should, have done much better. But as we enter this new era, I don't wish him ill. In fact, I wish him all the best. For him doing well means that we all should do well.
But I can say that I won't abandon the beliefs that I cling to, nor the ideals that I've come to recognize as being worthy to pursue. And I would ask the same of all of you. We can't, as many seem to be willing to do, just let him operate without careful consideration and a watchful eye. It's nice to see so many in the nation experiencing this euphoria of hope, but we all must temper that with vigilance. To quote Bruce Springsteen, "Blind faith in anything will get you killed." I urge us all to have hope that things may get better, but not loose sight of the fact that our leaders, more then anyone else, need to be accountable. Don't just accept what MSNBC, CNN, and Fox tell you - go out and discover what's really going on. Most of you know how I feel about some of the previously mentioned networks, and their relentless campaign to elect Obama and destroy McCain and especially Palin. But we most hold them accountable too - we must show them that we want truth and objectivity...not biased reporting with an agenda.
While yesterdays ceremony was nothing less then historic, I couldn't help but feel a little left out. After all, he wasn't my choice...but then neither was McCain really. While I am tremendously proud of my country for finally having the courage to elect an African-American president, I am still a bit apprehensive about the future. Maybe this man will have the courage to do what Bush wasn't able to do - reach across the aisle and work with those of us on the other side. Maybe he will be able to accomplish great things that will cause the partisanship that has engulfed our nation to completely dissipate. I hope so.
The Cove is a documentary about dolphins that are killed in a small Japanese town. They ruthlessly kill 23,000 every year, and do it out of site of the public. A group of activists went in commando style and documented the event. It was one of the most horrific things I've ever witnessed. As you all know, I'm not one of those tree-hugging, recycle everything down to your underwear, save the spotted owl kind of people, but this had a profound affect on me. I mean come on people - who doesn't love Flipper! http://www.savejapandolphins.org/covelearnmore.php
But on to lighter fare - I saw a film yesterday directed by John Kransinski - you may know him as Jim from The Office. It was an interesting film and a departure from what you'd expect from him. While I didn't think it was a great film, it was interesting and tried to make insights into post-feminism masculinity. It's not something you'd want to take a date to, or attend if you're looking for a bright happy sunshine movie. John was there, and seemed very nice. I saw him later in the day attending a film Ed Helms (Andy from The Office) was in.
For those of you reader who normally attend this festival and are feeling bad about missing out this year, I wouldn't feel too bad. It really is a odd year. From what I hear, there are few films that have tremendous buzz. People are talking about a few films more then others, but there is no Little Miss Sunshine from what I can tell this year. Main Street doesn't seem quite as busy, and the give aways are few and far between.Screenings are crowded, but it does seem like wait listers always have a shot at getting in. We'll see how the back of the festival goes, but from the look of the first half, you haven't missed too much.
Finally, I'd be remiss if I didn't say something about the transition of power our country went through yesterday. I know that many of you voted for Obama, and I've no problem with that. For what it's worth, I've been critical of both Bush as a president and McCain as a candidate - I think we on the right can, and should, have done much better. But as we enter this new era, I don't wish him ill. In fact, I wish him all the best. For him doing well means that we all should do well.
But I can say that I won't abandon the beliefs that I cling to, nor the ideals that I've come to recognize as being worthy to pursue. And I would ask the same of all of you. We can't, as many seem to be willing to do, just let him operate without careful consideration and a watchful eye. It's nice to see so many in the nation experiencing this euphoria of hope, but we all must temper that with vigilance. To quote Bruce Springsteen, "Blind faith in anything will get you killed." I urge us all to have hope that things may get better, but not loose sight of the fact that our leaders, more then anyone else, need to be accountable. Don't just accept what MSNBC, CNN, and Fox tell you - go out and discover what's really going on. Most of you know how I feel about some of the previously mentioned networks, and their relentless campaign to elect Obama and destroy McCain and especially Palin. But we most hold them accountable too - we must show them that we want truth and objectivity...not biased reporting with an agenda.
While yesterdays ceremony was nothing less then historic, I couldn't help but feel a little left out. After all, he wasn't my choice...but then neither was McCain really. While I am tremendously proud of my country for finally having the courage to elect an African-American president, I am still a bit apprehensive about the future. Maybe this man will have the courage to do what Bush wasn't able to do - reach across the aisle and work with those of us on the other side. Maybe he will be able to accomplish great things that will cause the partisanship that has engulfed our nation to completely dissipate. I hope so.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Sundance 2009 Day 2
Well, I'm two days into Sundance this year. While I'm severly lacking sleep, I have seen a number of films, with a larger number remaining. The cold isn't as bad this year as the temperature seems to be in the high 30's...cold, yes, but with no snow falling, blue skies, and warm sunshine it makes things for this SoCal native much more comfortable.
Yesterdays films provided only one of real note. It was called The Yes Men Fix The World. If you don't know who the Yes Men are, do a Google search and find out. There was a doc here at Sundance about them some time back, but this new one was made by them. These two guys take on some of the worlds largest companies, and pull of what can only be described as astounding hoaxes - all aimed at bringing light to the corporate greed that exists in the world today. Even for conservative like me, I found it all so very enjoyable.
Last night I saw I Love You Phillip Morris. It was a film starring Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor...it was not your normal Jim Carrey film, and it wasn't so great. I think Carrey was trying to stretch himself in this role, but all the film really seemed to do was stretch the patience of the audience. I couldn't really tell what the film wanted to be - a screwy romantic comedy of sorts (and oh by the way - the two male leads are gay and in love), or a film trying to help you get into the mind of one of the most creative scam artists around. While based on true events and real people, the film unfolds in wild fashion, but just fell flat for me...and for the film critic sitting next to me who left well before the film even finished. The entire cast was there, and it was the must see event last night. Crowds poured into the 1200+ seat Eccles theatre, and flash bulb pops were in abundance as Carry and girlfriend Jenny McCarthy entered the room.
The festival did hit a low point yesterday. Walking up Main Street, the person I can't stand most this world, pushed her way through the crowd, dressed in a pink bunny suit, and into Harry O's (the big bar in town where the most exclusive parties happen). Paris Hilton is in Park City - and we are the poorer for it. Her presence only reminds me of the commercialization that has stricken this beloved festival. When I hear a woman walking away from the mob scene that stopped traffic outside the bar, overjoyed because she has touched Paris, I know things are bad. Now as to why she was dressed in the full body pink bunny suit, I've no clue - as did anyone else here. But one thing is certain - does anyone care? It's Paris Hilton, for crying out loud.
One funny note from yesterday - as Jill and I were walking to dinner, a couple paparazzi approached us and asked if they could take our photo. The exact question was, "Tina, can we get a photo?" Jill smiled and said she wasn't Tina Fey, and they quickly moved on. I told her that she should have said yes...we could have had our picture all over the place!
Yesterdays films provided only one of real note. It was called The Yes Men Fix The World. If you don't know who the Yes Men are, do a Google search and find out. There was a doc here at Sundance about them some time back, but this new one was made by them. These two guys take on some of the worlds largest companies, and pull of what can only be described as astounding hoaxes - all aimed at bringing light to the corporate greed that exists in the world today. Even for conservative like me, I found it all so very enjoyable.
Last night I saw I Love You Phillip Morris. It was a film starring Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor...it was not your normal Jim Carrey film, and it wasn't so great. I think Carrey was trying to stretch himself in this role, but all the film really seemed to do was stretch the patience of the audience. I couldn't really tell what the film wanted to be - a screwy romantic comedy of sorts (and oh by the way - the two male leads are gay and in love), or a film trying to help you get into the mind of one of the most creative scam artists around. While based on true events and real people, the film unfolds in wild fashion, but just fell flat for me...and for the film critic sitting next to me who left well before the film even finished. The entire cast was there, and it was the must see event last night. Crowds poured into the 1200+ seat Eccles theatre, and flash bulb pops were in abundance as Carry and girlfriend Jenny McCarthy entered the room.
The festival did hit a low point yesterday. Walking up Main Street, the person I can't stand most this world, pushed her way through the crowd, dressed in a pink bunny suit, and into Harry O's (the big bar in town where the most exclusive parties happen). Paris Hilton is in Park City - and we are the poorer for it. Her presence only reminds me of the commercialization that has stricken this beloved festival. When I hear a woman walking away from the mob scene that stopped traffic outside the bar, overjoyed because she has touched Paris, I know things are bad. Now as to why she was dressed in the full body pink bunny suit, I've no clue - as did anyone else here. But one thing is certain - does anyone care? It's Paris Hilton, for crying out loud.
One funny note from yesterday - as Jill and I were walking to dinner, a couple paparazzi approached us and asked if they could take our photo. The exact question was, "Tina, can we get a photo?" Jill smiled and said she wasn't Tina Fey, and they quickly moved on. I told her that she should have said yes...we could have had our picture all over the place!
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