"The Lone Bellow" Live at "The Paradise" in Boston

I stumbled upon this group awhile ago and liked what I heard.  This feature really shows off their talents.

http://www.bubblews.com/news/5021460-indie-music-special-quotthe-lone-bellowquot-live-at-quotthe-paradisequot

Paranoia Grows with Report of Illegal Children Sponsors

Yesterday there was a small rally in Providence, RI about this...

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4975876-paranoia-grows-with-report-of-illegal-children-sponsors

Grocery Store Protest Demonstrates Power of Employee

I've been hearing a lot about this protest.  I find it interesting.

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4968928-grocery-store-protest-demonstrates-power-of-employee

'Black Mass': Whitey Bulger, the FBI, and Now Johnny Depp

'Black Mass' the Book Provides Loads of Complexities for Upcoming Film

"Black Mass" by Dick Lehr and Gerald O'Neill chronicles the union between legendary Irish Mob Boss James "Whitey" Bulger and the FBI in the Boston criminal underworld. As filming begins, the "Black Mass" story is a challenge to movie makers and star Johnny Depp as they try to accurately portray this criminal association and the complex and often misrepresented Irish mobster.

Bulger and associate Stevie Flemmi were recruited by FBI agent and fellow South Boston local John Connelly to be informants about Italian mafia activity in Boston. Using this cover and the aid of the FBI, they expanded their criminal enterprise of gambling, extortion, drug dealing, and murder to epic proportions until its downfall in the 1990's.

Lehr and O'Neill deep investigation into the Boston criminal underworld of the 1970's and 1980's includes essential detail of the culture and background of the main players involved. For the movie to establish authenticity, portrayal of these subtle nuances as explained by Lehr and O'Neill between South Boston, the North End, Quincy, etc. will be essential.

Lehr and O'Neill also expertly describe the "Bulger Myth". This myth included Whitey Bulger's perceived loyalty to South Boston, his lack of tolerance for drugs, and his generosity to its residents. Conversely, Lehr and O'Neill also detail Bulger's ruthless core and powerful and intimidating demeanor. Depp has to blend these facets of Bulger (his razor-sharp glare, quiet listening before bombastic eruptions, and free-talking schmoozing) to create such a unique and misrepresented character.

Possibly the biggest challenge in making "Black Mass" into a movie is the amount of information presented. With over 30 years of detail, information regarding Bulger's recruitment, the protection, cover, and bribery of the FBI provided, and its subsequent downfall are detailed.

Intermingled are the powerful moments demonstrating Bulger's hardened and ruthless core - actions like the murder of Oklahoma businessman Roger Wheeler and the frightening intimidation and takeover of Rakes' Liquor Store in South Boston. Combined with his near complete control of the Boston drug market, these moments demonstrate just how powerful Bulger became.

Finally, "Black Mass" ends with Whitey Bulger on the run and on the FBI Most Wanted list. FBI Agent John Connelly is indictment, Steve Flemmi and other either on trial or convicted of various crimes. How the movie handles the capture, trial, and conviction of Whitey Bulger remains to be seen.

Overall, "Black Mass" has the elements to be a successful, if movie it can present a believable and succinct tale of Whitey Bulger and company.

The Summer Party Music Guide for All Occasions

An Eclectic and Inviting Mix of Summer Party Music Favorites

Using music to create the perfect vibes for your summer party is essential for throwing a great bash. Using these guidelines will help you find the perfect party playlist:

- Select fun, upbeat, positive songs

- Pick recognizable music your guests will recognize 

- Play a variety of songs mixing between dance songs and anthems

Keeping these keys in mind, here are 10 summer party favorites that will make any party a success

1. "Summertime" - Will Smith

This is the perfect "chillin" summer party song ripe with strong images of playing basketball, trying to impress girls, and block parties. Use this one early to set the mood for your summer soiree.

2. "And We Danced" - The Hooters

This is one of those 80s songs that party-goers exclaim "I love this song!" With a light and upbeat melody, this 80s classic is another song used early in the party to get your guests in a happy mood.

3. "Foreplay / Long Time" - Boston 

I don't know if this one would have made the cut if I hadn't seen a cover band play it and the crowd respond so well. While the "Foreplay" portion of this one is a bit long, it is well worth it, as that transition drum bit and guitar riff invites rocker head bobbing from every party-goer.

4. "Blister in the Sun" - Violent Femmes

Now that the party should be in full swing, this selection will add to the energy. This fast-paced classic is one that partyers of all ages know quite well.

5. "Iko Iko" - The Dixie Cups

Everyone knows this song. Everyone loves this song. But no one ever thinks of playing this song. This 60s classic has a fun beat and a summery feel.

6. "Raise Your Glass" - Pink

It's important to have music from all eras to show your music acumen. This one from Pink is a good party anthem that everyone has heard.

7. "Surfing Bird" - The Trashmen

One of the more unusual songs in pop music history, Surfing Bird continues delight partyers with its chaotic melody and repeating lyric.

8. "All Summer Long" - Kid Rock

Combining classic party songs "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Werewolves of London" into a popular song about days gone by, this favorite is a perfect twist for any party.

9 . "Why Can't We Be Friends" - War

Another "anthem" song, War's classic is fun, happy, and a great sing-along.

10. "American Pie" - Don McLean

Yes, it may be overplayed a bit, but there are few parties that can escape a rousing rendition of this all-time great. Save it for the end and make fun of your friends fumbling their way through this one.

House Rabbit Care Basics for Making a Loving Home

Essential Tips for Creating an Warm Environment for House Rabbits

I remember walking into my now-wife's apartment and being surprised to find her "Monkey" - an indoor pet rabbit. A little confused, I quickly fell in love with this "house" rabbit and her playful antics. As a house rabbit parent, here are some common questions about house rabbit care.

Why a rabbit?

Rabbits tend to be shy as they are prey animals by nature. They require a comfortable and safe setting in order to relax and play with things like baby keys or an empty role of cardboard. As with all pets, the best way of obtaining a pet rabbit is to adopt one (or more) from a shelter or rescue group.

But aren't rabbits kept in hutches? 

No, rabbits should not be kept in wire-bottom hutches outdoors. Hutches have a wire bottom cage which actually can hurt bunnies. Rabbits do not have padding on the bottom of their feet. Without padding, the wire bottom cage will cause sores to develop on a rabbit's feet. Rabbits also do not tolerate extreme weather very well - particularly temperatures over 70 degrees F. Because of this bunny rescues do not adopt bunnies for outdoor living conditions.

How do you care for a "house" rabbit? 

House" rabbits are bunnies that are spayed / neutered and litter trained. Rabbits are not kid's toys and must be cared under the supervision of an adult. Most importantly, rabbits must be able to get exercise and be stimulated in order to become a friendly pet. Some of the basics:

Living space: Bunnies should have a cage or fenced in area large enough for them to move around easily, meeting these guidelines:

- The surface of the area should be flat and easily cleanable

- The cage / fence should be large enough for the bunny not to hop over it

- All electrical wires and loose carpet strands should be covered (rabbits will chew them)

Diet: A rabbit's main dietary substance is Timothy Hay. Hay provides bunnies with all of their necessary vitamins and minerals. Pellets, lettuce, and other vegetables can be used to supplement to hay. As with all pets, water should be available at all times.

Litter Box: Litter training of rabbits may be easier than puppies. Most rabbits adopted from shelters or rescues are already litter trained and just need to have a place in their living space for a litter box. Wood pellets make a good litter absorbent and need to be changed periodically.

Following these guidelines will start any family in providing a loving home for their house rabbit. For more information, check out the House Rabbit Society and House Rabbit Network websites. For adoptable bunnies in your area, check out petfinder.org. 

"Yes!" to Jason Mraz's Fifth Album?

I took a listen to Jason Mraz's latest album.  Overall, it was good, but I wasn't blown away.

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4884002-quotyesquot-to-jason-mraz039s-fifth-album

Immigration a Human Issue Handcuffed in Politics

Just an observation I noticed with all the talk of immigration:

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4881695-immigration-a-human-issue-handcuffed-in-politics

Five Movies Remembering James Garner

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4712924-five-movies-remembering-james-garner

"Tiny House" - Downsizing for a Purpose

After seeing a documentary called "TINY - a story about living small", I was thinking about why these people decided to move into these homes.  I could see myself doing something like this - a quick search found "Tiny House" vacation properties in all kinds of places (including the center of Paris!).

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4683251-quottiny-housequot-downsizing-for-a-purpose

Top Five British Murder Mysteries

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4560507-top-five-british-murder-mysteries

The "Super Moon" Social Media Phenomenon

Just a brief observation I noticed from the recent "Super Moon"

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4461995-the-quotsuper-moonquot-social-media-phenomenon

"Activist" Supreme Court Attacks "Obamacare" Mandate

My take on a couple of recent Supreme Court decisions involving certain types of Birth Control.

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4336090-quotactivistquot-supreme-court-attacks-quotobamacarequot-mandate

Cirque du Soleil's "Varekai" Excites and Enchants Audiences

Recent review of a Cirque du Soleil performance.  Overall, we really enjoyed the show.

http://www.bubblews.com/news/4300933-cirque-du-soleil039s-quotvarekaiquot-excites-and-enchants-audiences

Release of Massachusetts Murderer Puts Rehabilitation and Supreme Court to the Test

Supreme Court Decision About Juvenile Criminals to Be Tested by Rehabilitated Parolee

For the first time in Massachusetts Parole Board history, an inmate sentenced to life without parole is being granted parole. Frederick Christian, convicted of first degree murder at age 17, will be the first inmate from Massachusetts to benefit from recent Supreme Court decisions banning life without parole sentences for juvenile criminals. Because of his model inmate status, Christian's release should be used as study of prison rehabilitation and understanding of juvenile criminal behavior.

Christian's Crime

Christian, now 37, served 15 years of a life without parole sentence for his part in the 1994 murder of two men in an attempted armed robbery. While not the gunman, Christian was an accomplice to the murders, then evaded police until his arrest. He was found guilty of first degree murder in 1998, receiving two life sentences without parole.

Court Rulings Limit Sentences for Juveniles

In 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that mandatory life sentences without parole were unconstitutional. According to the Court, the ruling was based in part upon scientific data that suggested that differences in "behavior control" between the brain of juveniles and adults was critical in determining the ruling. Later in 2013, the Massachusetts Supreme Court further defined that life without parole sentences for juvenile offenders were no longer valid and that these inmates should be considered for parole.

Christian's Rehabilitation Ideal Test Case

Frederick Christian, despite having a life without parole sentence, took advantage of available rehabilitation programs long before the Supreme Court decisions in 2012 and 2013. He completed his GED. He found religion (Islam) and also participated in other programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, the Garden Program (growing vegetables at the prison), and Toastmasters - an organization aimed to help people with public speaking. Christian specifically credits the "Alternatives to Violence" program as being the most beneficial to his developing control of his anger.

Another "Willie Horton"

According to the 2011 "State of Recidivism" report by the Pew Center on the States, approximately 42% of released Massachusetts inmates from 2004 - 2007 returned to prison, including 33% after committing a new crime.

Moreover, Massachusetts' residents are also reminded of another famous instance of a prisoner being allowed to leave prison. Reverend Irene Monroe summarized this fear with one name during a recent interview on the "Jim and Margery" show on WGBH radio: "Willie Horton".

Horton was convicted of rape in 1974 and was released under the Massachusetts "furlough" program by then-Governor Michael Dukakis. Horton proceeded not to return, instead attacking and raping a woman.

For many Bay State residents, the thought of a violent criminal being paroled when the judicial system sentenced him to two without parole is worrisome. Instances like "Willie Horton" cause fear in society and promote a "lock the doors and throw away the key" mentality. For them, inmates rehabilitating themselves make less sense than prison being a deterrent for future criminal activities.

Frederick Christian: The Case Study

Despite public concerns, the Christian case presents a near ideal case - a model inmate seemingly rehabilitated after making very poor choices as a teenager. Whether supportive of more prison rehabilitation or more punitive measures for prisoners, the lessons of Christian's success or failure should be used to enhance these processes for the betterment of society.

Originally posted at Yahoo! Voices

Watching TV Without Cable - Less Expensive, More Enjoyment

Online Streaming Increases TV Content Availability at Less Cost Than Cable

Thanks to Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services, recent surveys have revealed that the hottest trend in TV viewing has become "binge viewing" - continuous viewing of a TV series from start to finish. TV viewing via online streaming player, such as Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire TV can be more enjoyable for less than typical cable costs.

How does online streaming work?

An online streaming player such as the Roku provides easy access through different "channels", such as Netflix, Hulu, and many others using the viewer's internet access. Access varies, but generally there is either a monthly subscription or a pay per view component to viewing a channel's content. In each channel, the content includes TV shows, movies, internet TV / YouTube videos, online news and radio content, and games such as "Angry Birds".

How does it beat cable?

Remember watching "24" or "The Sopranos" and having to wait a week or more to see the next episode? Online streaming allows you to watch an entire series at once without the hassle of either recording the show or being available to watch at the show's scheduled broadcast. Plus, other than limited commercials on some channels (such as Hulu), there are no commercials watching TV through this medium instead of cable.

What's the cost?

This is where it gets tricky - yes, online streaming is cheaper. However, if you are not careful, you can spend just as much as the full cable package. Consider if the average cable / internet system including DVR capability and premium channels (HBO, Cinemax, etc.) costs $200. The breakdown for a Roku is something like this:

- One-time fee for the device: $50 - $100

- Average of cost of Netflix, Hulu, and third channel: $24 per month

- Cost of Amazon Prime (to allow access to more content without pay per view costs): $79 per year

- Increase internet usage: $79 per month

Overall per month fee for one year: $118

So, with $80 worth of pay per view purchases or other monthly subscriptions, the cost of a Roku would be about the same as cable.

What's the disadvantage of online streaming?

In a nutshell - live events. Watching live sports or live reality contests (i.e. "American Idol") is difficult without cable. Some channels (MLB.TV for baseball; WatchESPN for other sports) have added live streaming, but these are limited and can be expensive. Also, most shows that are currently broadcasting require pay per view charge.

Is this the end of cable?

Not exactly, but the end is in sight. Other than the limitations in live TV, online streaming can provide nearly the same content as cable while supporting "binge viewer" habits. Costing less than cable, it makes sense for those who not only for "binge viewers", but those who do not have time to watch TV at prescribed times, or for those who only watch TV occasionally.

Originally posted at Yahoo! Voices

Impeach This - Anger and Extremism Dominating Politics from the Fringe

Edges of Politics Eliminating Smart, Sensible Discussion

Recently, I saw an "informational" booth about impeaching President Obama - the centerpiece of which being an Obama poster with a "Hitler" mustache. My first reaction was disgust with this "zealot". Then I thought about it; it is this extreme behavior is a product of the caustic environment of 21st Century American politics. The problem wasn't this booth; it was my inability to talk to this person.

Why could I not stop and have a 15 minute conversation with this person? Admittedly, I do tend to lean more left on the liberal - conservative spectrum. But that has not stopped me from political debate and banter with others whose views lie closer to the right. But something stopped me from speaking to this person.

Frankly, the tone of the booth drove me away. I firmly believe (as most people I suspect) that there is no parallel between the 20th Century's symbol for evil and the current (or any previous) President of the United States. And, if I can get past this extreme visual presence, what grounds are there to find the President guilty of "Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors"? The release of details from Guantanamo Bay to gain the release of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl as described by Allen West? "Obamacare"? I wouldn't know because judged his opinion solely based upon his signs and his simple message "Impeach Obama".

Granted, American citizens have always been passionate about politics - two of America's founding fathers (Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr) dueled over politics. Yet, fierce as political rivals may be, there has nearly always been a point where debate ends. As noted by political commentator Chris Matthews, President Ronald Reagan once told him, "The Speaker (Senator Tip O'Neill) says that here in Washington we're all friends after 6." Where has that gone?

The civility President Reagan spoke of has dissipated in favor of relentless extremism. With the rise of the organizations such as the "Tea Party", and "MoveOn.org", the power in American politics is moving closer to the edges and taking people with it. Politicians deliver messages that pander to these audiences. Pundits spin the news of the day to fit their ideals. Citizens (i.e. voters) do not stop to listen to the other side of the debate and formulate their opinions without all the facts.

To me, changing the tenor to start open and sensible debate is the first step to improving government. Instead of living in the silo of their specific ideologue, people should reach out to the other side, stop thinking of them as adversaries, and find the common ground that would improve the nation. Then, society should demand this same dialogue from its elected officials instead of punishing them for compromising.

For me, I should talk to the "Impeach Obama" man if I see him again. I should try to understand his opinions, and challenge them if I disagree. Then, maybe we could come to an understanding we both could agree on. Remaining civil, I would be willing to bet there are things we both agree upon and could urge our elected officials to do. Then, maybe we can get rid of that anger and remove the ignorant "Obama - Hitler" poster.

Originally posted at Yahoo! Voices

Imelda May's "Tribal" Keeps the Rockabilly "Mayhem" Strong

May's 4th Album, "Tribal", is Another Foot-Stomping Gem

Irish rockabilly sensation Imelda May's fourth album, "Tribal" continues building upon the momentum of her previous two albums, "Love Tattoo" (released in 2007) and "Mayhem" (2011). Keeping in stride with these previous albums, "Tribal" is a fresh addition to her rockabilly, blues, and rock-n-roll brand.

May has established herself as the undisputed queen of modern rockabilly. Fresh, yet laden with traditional rockabilly sound, her brand is an extension of the classic sound of Brian Setzer and The Stray Cats. More impressively, May's full alto cabaret/50s night club voice keeps shining through on each track. By blending story-teller lyric with an authentic vocal, Imelda May develops a unique and fresh rockabilly sound seldom heard.

The strength of "Tribal" is in the variety, uniqueness, yet familiarity of each track. May ably blends her strong voice and hard hitting guitars into uniquely crafted playful tunes, forceful tracks, and sultry ballads. To this point, "Tribal" encompasses a spectrum of the rockabilly style while staying in familiar territory for the listener. While each track has subtle nuances and borrows elements of other musical genres, Imelda May stays true to the rockabilly traditions. By pushing its limits, she creates a fresh musical sound without alienating her listeners with unfamiliar tunes.

The first song being release is track #3 - "It's Good to Be Alive". Fun and playful, it is sure to be an instant hit for Imelda May. Along these same lines, May delivers the goods with the frustratingly happy "Round the Bend" and closing track "Right Amount of Wrong".

The title track "Tribal", along with "Wild Woman", "Five Good Men", and "I Wanna Dance" displays this hard charging rock that has become May's signature sound. Each is a foot stomping upbeat track sure to get anyone's heart pounding.

"Hellfire Club" and Ghost in Love both demonstrate her storyteller quality while crafting a complimentary backdrop of sound.

The ballads included on "Tribal" range from the sweet ("Little Pixies") to the dark and sultry ("Gypsy in Me" and "Wicked Way"). Imelda May demonstrates a cabaret singer's swagger, moving the listener to feel the emotion of each song.

After the highly successful "Mayhem" album, "Tribal" lives up to its promise. "Tribal" stays right "in the pocket", almost sounding like an extension of Mayhem. For fans of Imelda May, "Tribal" will not disappoint. For newcomers to Imelda May, this album will surely leave them wanting more.

Originally posted at Yahoo! Voices

Better Summer Beverage: Narragansett - Del’s or Curious Traveler Shandy?

Two New England Shandies Offer Distinctive Flavor

Looking for a lighter, more refreshing summer beverage? Try a Shandy - a mixed lemonade / beer beverage. In New England, the Curious Traveler Shandy and the Narragansett - Del's Shandy are two of the most popular options. With distinct flavors, these Shandies offer refreshing uniqueness for anyone looking for a summertime specialty beverage.

Curious Traveler Shandy - An All Year Round Favorite 

The Curious Traveler Shandy, by the Traveler Beer Company (a subsidiary of Boston Beer Company), is a smooth and refreshing summer beverage. The first taste you experience is a vibrant, but not overpowering lemon. The back end is where the beer flavor shines through. The beer essence of the Curious Traveler Shandy resembles a darker, heavier brew (similar to a Samuel Adams Light).

The supple mixture created by lemon and beer flavors has little overall bitterness. But, it does retain more beer flavor, reminding you that you are drinking an "adult" beverage. The sugars of the lemon flavor mix effortlessly to eliminate any potential brackishness of combining two bitter beverages together. Overall, the Curious Traveler Shandy is quite an easy and refreshing beverage to partake.

Narragansett - Del's Shandy - A Combination of Two Rhode Island Classics

A new entry in the field of Shandies, the Narragansett - Del's Shandy is a combination two Rhode Island traditions: Narragansett Ale and Del's Lemonade. Similar to the Curious Traveler Shandy, the first flavor of a Narragansett - Del's Shandy is the distinct flavor of Del's lemonade. Powerful and sweet, the Del's lemonade flavor consumes your taste buds, leaving only a slight amount of subtle beer taste on the back end.

The lack of strong beer flavor is curious, but probably for the best. Narragansett Ale alone is a dull flavor and somewhat stale tasting beer. But, the ale takes a back seat to the sugary lemonade that is distinctively Del's. It is remarkably smooth, light, and quite refreshing. Overall, Narragansett - Del's Shandy is heavy on the Del's, light on the Narragansett, and remarkably strong and smooth on the lemon flavor.

The Decision

Both - but for different reasons. If you are a fan of beer flavored drinks, then the Curious Traveler is for you. If you are light on beer flavor, then Narragansett - Del's Shandy is your choice. Better yet, get yourself both and enjoy the summer!

Originally posted atYahoo! Voices