Sunday, February 26, 2012

Proposed program for event at The Mysterious Bookshop, March 28, 6:30 PM

Working on the program for my March 28 reading and book signing at The Mysterious Bookshop, 58 Warren Street, New York, NY.
I've never done this before so I've identified the following possible activities:
1. Introductions - I will present myself and my immediate family, pets and entourage.
2. Bob for apples - I'm all for 'em!
3. How I got here - with maps and detailed subway directions
4. Exchange of rare gifts - bring a small item.
5. Feats of strength - it's not just for Festivus anymore
6. Annoying reading from Executive Severance - I intend to use a high, whinny voice
7. Ritual animal slaughter - to propitiate the Gods
8. Q&Q - I will answer any questions with another question
9. Closing - we should leave the Mysterious Bookshop before we're shut in for the night.

Any suggestions?

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Russ Feingold at the New School



At the New School last night, I attended a talk by Russ Feingold promoting his book, While America Sleeps. Feingold, who may be angling to be the next Secretary of State, spoke about the need for all Americans to learn more about and become more engaged with other nations. Feingold also talked about the need to overturn Citizens United and enact public campaign financing.

Being the Media Ecologist I am, I asked the following question: Given media consolidation in our country, why hasn't anyone noted how the major beneficiaries of campaign spending are the few entities that control the majority of our broadcast media? It isn't enought to enact public financing of campaigns while a few select corporations control the agenda of our national debate.

Feingold agreed, noting that he voted against the 1996 Telecommunications Act that enabled the concentration of media ownership in a few hands.

So, the takeaways: Learn about other nations, enact public campaign financing, break up the media conglomerates.