Area 51, a remote detachment of Southern California's Edwards Air Force Base, is a military base in Nevada. Today, a new book about Area 51 abducts old conspiracy theories and spawns new ones.
'Area 51: An Uncensored History of America's Top Secret Military Base', by Annie Jacobsen, is a book that started out as a two-part feature in Los Angeles Times Magazine a couple of years ago.
A journalist by trade, Jacobsen gained access to former Area 51 workers, who spilled the juice about atomic testing, high-altitude surveillance, stealth technology and something 'extra'.
Jacobsen channeled all the Area 51 research and documentation into a shocking page-turner, complete with lots of dirt on U.S. government black operations and their paranoid officials, contractors and workers.
In 'Area 51', author Annie Jacobsen writes about U.S. government atomic test blasts and their consequent effects on human and animals and, as well, she addresses the 'alien' humanoids found near Roswell, NM in 1947.
The author suggests that the Roswell UFO displayed Cyrillic markings in Russian, and that the recovered 'alien' bodies might have been Gypsy teenagers transfigured by Nazi doctor Josef Mengele's medical experiments at the infamous concentration camp at Auschwitz.
Annie Jacobsen asserts in 'Area 51' that Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin made a deal with Dr. Mengele to give Stalin 'aliens' in exchange for Mengele's political asylum in Russia to avoid international war crimes prosecutions.
Stalin allegedly wanted to drop a UFO with aliens in the middle of the American Southwest to create widespread panic alaOrson Welles' 1938 "War of the Worlds" radio broadcast, which caused American suicides and mayhem.
"Truman would see how easily a totalitarian dictator could control the masses using black propaganda. When it came to manipulating the people's perception, Stalin was the leader with the upper hand," Jacobsen wrote in 'Area 51'.
Jacobsen also quoted a source as saying that the U.S. government conducted its own top-secret immoral human experiments at the mysterious Area 51 military base.
A reading of 'Area 51: An Uncensored History of America's Top Secret Military Base', by Annie Jacobsen, is definitely recommended.
Jim Morrison, the singer and lyricist of the band The Doors and the most iconic frontman in rock music history, appears as a ghost in his old childhood home, according to his mortal mistress.
Rhonda Baron's family bought the haunted Arlington, Virginia home where Jim Morrison spent his childhood years. She has now come forward publicly to tell the world of her ghostly affair with The Lizard King.
The woman stated in a television media interview that Jim Morrison's ghost has regularly visited her between the sheets in the very bed Morrison used to sleep in at his family's old house.
"I was lying in bed. The spirit lay down on the bed beside me on his back and turned and looked at me. It was like a haze. You could look through it," declared Rhonda Baron.
Jim Morrison apparently mistook Rhonda as his "L.A. Woman" and he evidently wanted to "Love Her Madly".
Did he really say, "Touch Me", "Light My Fire" and "Love Me Two Times"? How cheesy. That just goes to show you "People Are Strange".
Ms. Baron said that Morrison has disappeared since she told him she no longer needed his help.
Morrison wasn't the famous guy from California who said, "Help Me Rhonda", so the haunting romance reached "The End".
Today, Rhonda sits around "Waiting For The Sun". What else does one do "When The Music's Over"?
Since Jim Morrison was pardoned by the Florida governor six months ago, he's now ready for this July's 40th anniversary of his mortal death, which is sure to be a "Celebration of the Lizard".
Guaranteed, the ghostly California rock star will surely "break on through to the other side" for yet more post-mortem media coverage in 2011.
It may be true that 'No One Here Gets Out Alive', but no super-famous person is ever allowed to truly die in L.A., so Jim Morrison remains a growling ghost of glitter.
Musicians took to the streets to protest the Grammys after the decision to cut a shocking 31 Grammy Award categories out forever.
A heated demonstration escalated Thursday in Beverly Hills, California with angry musicians picketing and calling on the recording academy to restore the 31 musical categories slashed from the Grammy list.
As the defiant mob of musicians protested outside the swanky Beverly Hilton, the board of trustees for the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) met inside.
NARAS eliminated 31 categories from the Grammy Awards, including Native American, Cajun, Hawaiian, Zydeco, Latin Jazz, Polka and Traditional World Music.
Adding to the shock, certain Gospel, Blues, R&B, and Mexican categories, among others, have all been unceremoniously flushed, sparking outrage in the music community.
The effect of the Grammy Award changes is especially devastating for roots music genres.
During the angry protest, demonstrators carried picket signs that declared "Re-instate Separate Categories" and "NARAS Kills Music." The protesters want the Academy's decision reversed.
Music Industry Professionals Speak Out
"Many races, colors and creeds embrace our music and to take that away from us is a slap in the face," declared Latin jazz musician Peter Escovedo.
"Reinstate the categories. Reinstate all of them Let the chips fall where they may, on the talent," said contemporary blues artist Pepper Mashay.
"We strongly protest this decision and we ask you to represent all of the colors of the rainbow when it comes to music and give ethnic music a place in the heart of music lovers everywhere," declared Grammy winner Carlos Santana.
"I believe the Grammys have done a disservice to many talented musicians by combining previously distinct and separate types of music into a catch-all of blurry larger categories," said Grammy winner Paul Simon.
"You say to the Grammys, 'What is next? Eliminate jazz because it isn't popular?' Frank Sinatra said in the first Grammys it is about excellence, not about popularity," said Grammy winner Oscar Hernandez.
"We're about diversity. This country is about diversity. We are not all one race. We are not all from England. We're from every part of the world. And yes, a lot of this music was created by immigrants but we're all the children of immigrants and diversity is what's important here and should be reflected," said African Latin Jazz musician Bobby Matos.
The recording academy declined to comment on the California Grammy protest or the reasoning behind their decision, but NARAS President and CEO Neil Portnow released a statement:
"After careful and extensive review and analysis of all categories and fields, it was objectively determined that our Grammy categories be restructured to the continued competition and prestige of the highest and only peer-recognized award in music."
Renowned Latin jazz musician Bobby Sanabria commented at length about the Academy and its practices:
"We've tried everything. They have been arrogant as well as disrespectful. We asked for meetings, they didn't respond. They were dismissive of everything we had to say. The worst thing was their clear message – forget about this year."
"The board does not have our best interest in mind. Many have conflicts of interest because they work for/have associations with big labels as well as the administration."
"In terms of the so-called 'restructuring'? No one in their right mind would've done this. You have to realize they cut 31 categories. 70 percent of those categories are ethnically and color based. All of them represent the rich cultural diversity of this country. The message NARAS is saying is that we don't care bout diversity anymore."
"The cuts by the Academy signal something that the entire public should be concerned about. The Academy has sent a clear message that they wish to cut the increased power that independent record companies have attained and stacked the Grammy equation in favor of the majors. Their corporate spiel about achieving parity for everyone is an outright lie."
"They did this in secret without consulting the membership or the board of governors. Do you honestly think membership will increase after this? It will decrease as members in the affected categories realize there is no chance for them to be nominated and win a Grammy. It will eventually lead to homogeneity in all music."
"The economic hardship they have inflicted is drastic to these small independent labels and artists and it can only be repaired if they reinstate the categories. The categories cut represent the best of this country's musical and cultural diversity and are the basis from which the major categories draw upon for inspiration."
"The Academy has crushed the dreams of every young aspiring musician who is learning to play music from these categories by telling them, you will never be nominated and win a Grammy because you play these styles of music. Worse, they are keeping these genres of music from gaining larger recognition with the public at large giving the implicit message that they literally don't exist."
Grammy-winning music legend Carlos Santana and his wife, Cindy Blackman Santana, issued a response to the Academy:
"The biggest and most irresponsible cut to us is that you have eliminated Latin Jazz. Apparently the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences down-sizing (even though no categories were removed from the awards) is simply a bad move and makes us wonder if you are doing this for other motives."
"Without Tito Puente, Dizzy Gillespie, João Gilberto and countless others, there would be no Santana. These Latin Jazz artists helped launch and craft countless genres of American and World music and are just as vibrant today as they were at any other point in history. To remove Latin Jazz and many other ethnic categories is doing a huge disservice to the brilliant musicians who keep the music vibrant for their fans, new and old."
The American music community has established the Grammy Watch website as an information clearinghouse regarding the Grammy changes. The #1 California blog encourages everyone to visit and support all music of our planet.
The State of California is reportedly investigating former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in an alleged misuse of California taxpayer funds to cover up adulterous liaisons.
California's attorney general is said to be launching a preliminary evaluation into Schwarzenegger's sex life, which allegedly included using state-funded security agents to cover up sex partners being escorted into his hotel rooms.
Who is it that is attempting to brand Arnold Schwarzenegger as a sleazy criminal?
Former hotel security officer William Taylor declared that he personally witnessed the governor using California Highway Patrol cops and state vehicles to carry "scantily-clad women in-and-out of his suite" at Sacramento, California's Hyatt Regency Hotel.
Mr. Taylor, who reportedly passed a polygraph test about his claims, recalled that Schwarzenegger was so intimidating to the Hyatt hotel staff that he ordered them to not make eye contact with him.
The ex-security guard told his story to a tabloid:
"It makes me very angry just to think of what was going on at that time. On three different occasions after the governor arrived alone at the Hyatt Regency, CHP Dignitary Protection Services arrived in their official vehicles --- black Ford Crown Victoria sedans --- about one to two hours later with one or two young females. They'd hurriedly escort the women through the service entrance on the second floor parking garage to the elevator that went to the governor's private wing. ... The women would usually stay for two to four hours and either leave through the hotel's main entrance or be driven away by the CHP in the same official vehicles."
"Completely false," answered Schwarzenegger attorney Marty Singer on the accusation that his client used the California Highway Patrol to cover-up extramarital trysts at taxpayer expense.
Singer was adamant in defense of the former governor, who turns 64 this summer.
"Unfortunately, the media's relentless desire for new information has some outlets running stories that are made up by paying sources that have zero credibility. My client stated from the beginning that he takes full responsibility for his actions and deserves the public and media criticism. This does not entitle some in the media to be totally irresponsible," Singer stated.
Two former California Highway Patrol officers have now publicly denied helping former Governor Schwarzenegger cover up any sexcapades.
"I can say without a shadow of a doubt, as a supervisor of his protective detail, that at no time did I see Governor Schwarzenegger say or do anything that could be deemed inappropriate," declared veteran CHP Sergeant Mark Hammond, who worked for Schwarzenegger for two terms.
Retired CHP Officer Manny Trevino also voiced his denial, declaring, "I never witnessed the Governor acting in a less than honorable manner."
Former child actress Gigi Goyette is saying that she had an affair with Arnold Schwarzenegger in the late 1980s, while he was married to TV news star Maria Shriver.
Attorney Marty Singer counter-attacked the ex-actress' allegation, declaring Goyette "a person who wants to make money selling stories".
Schwarzenegger's estranged wife, former First Lady Maria Shriver, 55, has hired Hollywood divorce lawyer Laura Wasser to represent her.
Rumors are out of control, with ambulance-chasing tabloids speculating that Shriver will file for divorce in the next few days, seeking in excess of $100 million plus child support.
Maria Shriver's spokesperson is not backing up such speculations with any statement, and understandably so.
Apparently, the tawdry, drawn-out Schwarzenegger scandal of 2011 is far from over.
Oprah Winfrey, the world's most famous woman, has finally moved to California for a new life as a full-time Californian.
Oprah's Promised Land estate in Montecito welcomes its owner, now California's richest woman, as she embarks on the journey of her lifetime in pursuit of her ultimate best life.
Oprah's California Dream
Having previously sold most of what tied her to Chicagoland, Oprah Winfrey will now rule La-La-Land as she commutes by helicopter between her $60 million Montecito home and the new Oprah Winfrey Network corporate headquarters in Los Angeles.
The Queen of Television built her Santa Barbara area megamansion a decade ago and, today, her Montecito neighbors are excited about Miss "O" now being a full-time citizen of California.
Oprah Winfrey's next-door neighbor, interior designer Penelope "Penny" Bianchi, has attended star-studded parties at Oprah's and received lavish gifts from the billionaire, but Penny is happier that she and Oprah can now resume their relationship as neighbors and friends.
Winfrey and Bianchi have been exchanging gossip over the fence for 10 years now and Penny regularly gives Oprah fresh eggs from her chickens.
"I guess it's pretty unusual for Oprah to be friends with someone 'normal' like me, but that's who she is. She is such an amazing person. She's just so interested in everyone," said Penny Bianchi, 63.
How do the neighbors feel about Oprah's loud parties?
Penny said, "She sends a bottle of champagne and a note saying 'I apologize ahead of time for the noise'... as if it's a problem hearing Roberta Flack or Stevie Wonder playing over the fence."
Oprah regularly stops by to chat with Penny while on her daily walks around the 42-acre estate on a path lined with native California Sequoia trees.
"She loves it. She calls it her 'hallelujah trail' and she walks it every time she's home. She has hydrangeas on it because that is what her grandmother used to have when she was a child," said Oprah's neighbor.
Penny says that Oprah Winfrey and Stedman Graham are very happy on the Montecito estate where they live with their three Cocker Spaniels and two Golden Retrievers.
Penny has coped with countless charities calling her to ask if she could mention their charity to Oprah.
When she first mentioned it to Oprah, Winfrey was protective in replying, "You don’t have a listed phone number do you? You can't have a listed phone number now that you live next door to me!"
Penny Bianchi is looking forward to seeing more of her friend and next-door neighbor now since the end of The Oprah Winfrey Show.
"She loved that show, but she's ready to do something else. She said 25 years just seemed like the right time for her. She is an unbelievable person and whatever she does next will be incredible, you just know. I love her I'm a huge fan and she really is an amazing next door neighbor," Mrs. Bianchi declared.
There will be no more California Dreamin' for Oprah Winfrey. Now it will be a permanent reality for the California businesswoman and official taxpaying resident of the Golden State.
The Go-Go's have come a long way since 1978 and, 33 years later, Hollywood's most celebrated rock chicks are still rockin' in 2011 --- even performing LIVE on television's #1 hit show.
Millions of Go-Go's fans cheered Belinda Carlisle and the girls on as the legendary rock group commanded the stage of America's hottest TV program, ABC's Dancing With The Stars in their hometown of Hollywood, California.
The all-female New Wave band are back in the spotlight and doing a Summer 2011 tour that will have Go-Go's fans screaming "We Got The Beat!"
This California blog congratulates The Go-Go's on the 30th anniversary of the release of their record-breaking debut album Beauty and the Beat, which is now re-mastered and re-released for a new generation.
The multi-platinum multi-million-selling album ushered in the New Wave and the new California Sound of the '80s, starting with airplay on L.A.'s KROQ-FM.
Hipness, coolness, radness and L.A. rock-chickness were ruled by the girls of The Go-Go's from their pink thrones along Hollywood's Sunset Strip --- from where the camera now reaches all the way across the planet in 2011.
Enjoy the rockin' 1982 flashback LIVE performance video (below) then stop by The Go-Go's official site and keep up with all the big stuff that the girls are up to today.
Joplin, Missouri is devastated by a tornado from hell, with hundreds dead, thousands injured and thousands of the city's buildings destroyed. The most immediate concern is rescuing survivors.
Now native California search dogs have jumped in to help in tornado-ravaged Joplin, MO.
Two heroic search and rescue dogs, born in California and trained by the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation in Ojai, California, are finding tornado survivors amid the ruins of Joplin.
The canine heroes are named Huck and Jagger.
Huck and Jagger are working over the top of the rubble, trying to locate the scent of tornado survivors buried in rubble. When these search dogs bark, that means there is a person in need of rescue, so the location is marked and a crew is called in to start removing the rubble quickly.
The fearless California dogs are working long shifts in the federally-declared disaster area of Joplin with Tulsa, Oklahoma-based search teams. So far, the search dogs have sniffed-out over 100 structures for human and animal survivors.
Huck and Jagger know what it is like to be rescued because they were rescued themselves from California animal shelters after being abandoned, alone and left for dead by those whom the dogs loved and trusted.
Huck, 4, a male Chocolate Lab, was rescued from the East Bay SPCA in San Francisco, California.
In December of 2007, the East Bay SPCA called Julia Ford, a woman who rescues dogs and trains them for Drug and Explosive detection, about an unruly Chocolate Lab named "Huckleberry Hound" who was too possessive of his toys.
Julia knew that if she didn't take him then and there, the chances of a dog like Huck making it out of the shelter were slim, so she gave SDF a call. SDF handler Al Duncan tested the dog and he passed with flying colors.
It was soon discovered that Huck could also open gates, undo latches and climb fences. Huck passed his Foundation Skills Assessment in August 2009 and ultimately achieved state certification.
Jagger, 5, a male Yellow Lab, was rescued from the Haven Humane Society near Redding, California.
Search Dog Foundation volunteer Laura Rathe found Jagger in December 2007. He had arrived the week before as a stray and was severely malnourished. Despite his health problems, Jagger was extremely high-energy and ball-driven.
Laura tested Jagger, and immediately brought him to SDF to start training as a search dog.
When Jagger began formal training with SDF, he was still so sick that the kennel staff were not sure he would make it. Their care and concern paid off and Jagger was nursed back to health.
Jagger passed his Foundation Skills Assessment test in August 2009 and ultimately achieved official state certification.
The now-famous California search dog heroes are living out their life's mission by saving as many people and pets as they possibly can under dangerous conditions in deady disaster zones such as Joplin, Missouri.
Jagger and Huck are happy to be alive and they are both working hard to save the lives of others just as their own lives were saved.
California has long been known as a land of second chances, so it is both heartwarming and inspiring to witness two abandoned and rescued dogs from the Golden State living out the Golden Rule while risking their own lives.
While the people of Joplin, Missouri are, understandably, worried about their immediate survival, maybe they will one day know that there were two once-forgotten dogs from California who did not forget them.
With so many disasters happening across the nation, the Ojai-based National Disaster Search Dog Foundation is trying desperately to keep up with demand and build a larger dog training facility in Santa Paula, California.
This California blog is asking good people from around the world to visit this great organization's website and make a donation toward the saving of more lives.
Thank you, Huck and Jagger for remembering your own second chance at life by giving that chance to the Joplin, Missouri tornado survivors.
You brave search dogs are true California heroes whom the People of California are so proud of.
"California Soul" is a 2005 house techno California song by the dance music group Riot Act.
A California dance anthem,"California Soul" is Riot Act's cover of the classic song composed by legendary songwriters Ashford & Simpson in the 1960s.
Previously recorded by R&B superstars The 5th Dimension, Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell and Marlena Shaw, Riot Act's version of "California Soul" is a high-energy dance floor celebration of the Golden State.
Riot Act are vocalist Anjulie and the production team TJ & KG who have also worked with Mary J Blige, Gwen Stefani and Dirty Vegas.
Trained in opera at Italia Conti, Anjulie is a singer and television actress who is Italian, Danish and Gypsy, fitting right into the California diversity vibe.
One of the most danceable songs about California, "California Soul" by Riot Act honors the legends who previously recorded it while upping the song's energy and excitement.
The California economy is jumping with more jobs, dropping unemployment and rising international trade in 2011, but should Californians start celebrating yet?
According to the state's latest economic figures and expert predictions, the answer is a resounding "Yes".
California's Unemployment Finally Drops
California's unemployment rate sank below 12-percent, down to 11.9 percent, for the first time since August 2009. Many are confident that the trend will continue.
"I think we're on the way to recovery," declared former Employment Development Department official Michael Bernick.
The state added 8,900 jobs in April and has gained 100,000 jobs so far in 2011, according to the latest statistics just released by the state Employment Development Department.
California added jobs in mining, logging, leisure, hospitality, education, health services, transportation, utilities, trade and manufacturing --- with most jobs being quickly snatched-up by formerly unemployed Californians.
California's International Trade Jumps
International trade at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach improved by more than 6 percent in April, compared with the same month a year ago.
In April, the Port of Los Angeles jumped 3.4% from the same month a year earlier. Export containers through the port rose 5.8 percent. In 2011, traffic at the nation's busiest port increased 8.5 percent.
April was the 15th straight month of growth at America's largest seaport complex, with trade-related jobs increasing as well. Seaport trade has increased nearly 8 percent so far in 2011.
At the neighboring Port of Long Beach, trade business increased 12 percent in April and exports jumped 10.4 percent.
Combined, 1.1 million containers moved through the ports in April, up 6.3 percent from the same month a year earlier. Traffic at the two ports has increased 7.9 percent, to 4.3 million containers in 2011.
Subsequently, sales of "now hiring", "position open" and "applications accepted" signs and placards are up as well.
On top of those figures, more tourists worldwide say they plan to visit California this year than ever, so state tourism and its related job market should be happy again.
I am the creative genesis persisting amid chaos; the idea made manifest.
I am the eternal state of "becoming".
Ever changing, morphing and mutating, my essence reflects the mind of my Creator.
Purity, perfection and productivity are my principles.
I am innovation; the perennially new. I am relentless forward momentum.
I am the unity of the spiritual, the mental and the physical. I am symmetry and balance.
I am the created who recreates; the blessed who blesses; the beloved who loves without prejudice.
I am expression; the vision seen; the voice heard; the thought interpreted.
Races, religions and cultures are my colors, hues and shades. Variety is my lifeblood.
I am the portrait of humanity which beckons an impassioned brush stroke from every hand.
I am relationship; always conversing, sharing, belonging, reciprocating, accepting and providing.
I am contrary; an oasis in the desert; order from chaos; beauty from ashes; hope from despair; unity from diversity; light from darkness.
I am information, communication, technology and intelligence always seeking Wisdom.
Ever the student of the Eternal, I instruct willing minds through my failures and successes.
I am the experience; the be-in; the adventure; the journey; the trip. I am interactivity and participation.
I am the ultimate; the zenith; the apex; the extreme; the max. Limitless minds are my companions into the timeless unknown.
I am to be merged with; not to simply be admired from afar. My visions are to be shared; my dreams are to be realized; my desires are to be consummated.
I am the fruit of ambition, effort and achievement. I am the rarest wine to be tasted, savored and thoroughly enjoyed, not merely collected.
Golden, priceless and breathtaking, I am the star-studded dream, the quaking vision, and the imagination on fire.
Former California Governor and Hollywood megastar Arnold Schwarzenegger has an out-of-wedlock 'love child' from a 20-year employee of the Schwarzenegger-Shriver household.
Californians are shocked, many are sympathetic and most are quick to support California's former first lady and her children during the breaking scandal.
The marital separation of Schwarzenegger and estranged wife former First Lady Maria Shriver began after Shriver was informed that her husband and a longtime female member of their household staff had a secret 'love child' together 13 years ago.
The 25-year marriage split abruptly when Maria Shriver packed her bags and moved out of the couple's Brentwood, California estate after Schwarzenegger confirmed his paternity.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, 63, was somber in his statement on his adultery and illegitimate child.
"After leaving the governor's office I told my wife about this event, which occurred over a decade ago. I understand and deserve the feelings of anger and disappointment among my friends and family. There are no excuses and I take full responsibility for the hurt I have caused. I have apologized to Maria, my children and my family. I am truly sorry. I ask that the media respect my wife and children through this extremely difficult time. While I deserve your attention and criticism, my family does not."
Schwarzenegger has secretly provided financially for his child all along.
Maria Shriver, 55, broke her silence and publicly responded to her estranged husband's fathering of the child with a trusted member of her household staff.
"This is a painful and heartbreaking time. As a mother, my concern is for the children. I ask for compassion, respect and privacy as my children and I try to rebuild our lives and heal. I will have no further comment."
The former First Couple have four children together, ages 14, 18, 20 and 21, including best-selling author Katherine Schwarzenegger.
"Thank you for all the kindness, support and compassion. I am humbled by the love. Thank you," Shriver stated.
The entire Schwarzenegger family is hard-working, giving, caring and Catholic. Nobody needs to lecture Arnold on morality and guilt right now. The pain of secrecy has been torturous enough for him.
At least he stepped up to the plate and provided for his youngest child as he did for his four other children. There has to be some honor in that.
To have a private matter stay private is difficult for a very public California family in the spotlight.
Plastic bag bans seem to be all the rage in California, as state and local elected officials officially officiate over California's greatest threat.
The Great Plastic Grocery Bag Apocalypse
With current predictions in the media of the end of the world, along with the threats of an economic crash, nuclear radiation, hyperinflation, natural disasters and the disease-of-the-week, it's hard for most Californians to see any sense in knee-jerk plastic bag bans.
California's elected servants who are involved in these bans are either ignorant, greedy or part of the agenda of chaos. Period.
Are you one of these elected office-holders and, if so, did that offend you? Then I'll now speak directly to you.
What in the world is wrong with you?
Don't you realize that things like meaningless plastic bag bans aren't driving away California's riff-raff but driving away thinking, caring, engaged, involved, intelligent TAXPAYING folks as they leave your cities and counties in utter frustration?
It would not surprise me to hear that all the HOT AIR from endless plastic bag meetings, deliberations and policy sessions across our Golden State is the real cause of global warming.
Is this really what your neighbors are paying their hard-earned money for you folks to do every day? Is this why they voted for you?
Plastic Bag Nazis
Who, exactly, are you taking your orders from? Your bosses are voters. Are you mocking the taxpayers who feed your gut and pay for your booze, weed and Viagra?
How dare you waste limited time and resources on banning plastic bags when there are homeless, evicted, unemployed, hopeless, STARVING California citizens among your constituents.
Do you really think that Japanese earthquake and tsunami survivors care right now about their smoking bans, unlicensed dog bans or plastic bag bans?
I dare you to ask them.
If I were elected to do your jobs today, I could not concentrate on such sissified and trivial frivolities while my constituents --- my neighbors --- are struggling to pay the taxes that I live on.
Are you hypocrites, selling-out your neighbors for your own political and financial gain via taxes? You should be FIRED in abject humiliation.
If you were asked by a homeless mother for a dollar for her child's burrito, would you demand to know if she was carrying a plastic bag?
Apparently, telling your neighbors HOW to live is more important to you than HELPING them live.
Is this California or Gomorrah?
While taxpayers across California are cursing you, sensible people across America and around the world are laughing at you.
Why don't you think about this?
The plastic bag manufacturing and recycling industries directly employ THOUSANDS of Californians in areas of the Golden State with the highest unemployment.
Banning bags may not hurt you, but it adversely affects real California families struggling to pay bills, taxes, rent, mortgages, insurance, utilities, food, gasoline and childcare costs....
... and the local taxpaying businesses these families can no longer patronize, which must eventually lay off workers or cease operations.
How far ahead are you elected servants really thinking? How about your cohorts in the media?
California's mainstream media outlets just keep on pushing false facts about plastic bags like a mantra.
From claims that plastic bags are toxic to claims that they are the largest threat to endangered species, the perpetuated myths come from sloppy journalism, political agendas, opinions stated as facts, out-of-context quotes and old statistics.
This misinfo, or disinfo, is parroted by so many newspapers and websites that many Californians have come to accept them as fact.
Shame.
How can you folks justify wasting your neighbors' money, your time and God-given talents on something so embarrassing?
Plastic bag bans? Really? What's next, bad hair bans, bad breath bans and "you looked at me the wrong way" bans?
California communities have far more pressing issues to handle and, with your wasteful focus on this petty issue, you are standing in the way of our progress as a society.
Carlos Santana, the California superstar musician with four decades of chart-topping hits, blasted the states of Arizona and Georgia on immigration during a speech at a major sports event.
Santana was presented with the Beacon of Change award before the Atlanta Braves Civil Rights Game against the Philadelphia Phillies and he seized the spotlight to criticize Arizona and Georgia for their new immigration laws.
Representing immigrants, the Grammy-winning rock legend said at Turner field, "The people of Arizona, and the people of Atlanta, Georgia, you should be ashamed of yourselves."
On Friday, Georgia Governor Nathan Deal signed a bill that requires many employers to check the immigration status of new hires and authorizes law enforcement officers to check the status of some suspects.
"It's an anti-American law," Santana said. "If you all remember what it was like here with Martin Luther King and the dogs and the hoses, it's the same thing, only it's high-tech. So let's change it."
The new anti-illegal immigration law, one of the toughest in the nation, is similar in many respects to SB-1070, the law enacted last year in Arizona.
"This is about fear. Stop shucking and jiving. People are afraid we're going to steal your job. No, we aren't. You're not going to change sheets and clean toilets," declared Santana, a Mexican immigrant and veteran of 1969's Woodstock.
The world famous rock guitarist boldly proclaimed, "This is the United States. This is the land of the free. If people want the immigration laws to keep passing, then everybody should get out and leave the American Indians here."
The audience was shocked, as many Americans are now.
Santana, who emigrated from Mexico to California in the 1960s, is not famous for speaking out on political issues but, apparently, he could no longer hold back his feelings on new immigration legislation.
"This law is not correct. It's a cruel law, actually," declared Carlos Santana.
"California Girls" is a 2006 country rock California song by Grammy-winning country music superstar Gretchen Wilson.
A hilariously funny tongue-in-cheek criticism of Paris Hilton and all "Hollywood types" in the Golden State, "California Girls" is a single from Gretchen Wilson's #1 album All Jacked Up.
While this blog is the state of California's biggest cheerleader, it's only right that the occasional opposing view is presented for the sake of balance --- especially when it's a song that totally rocks!
Poking fun at California stereotypes, the video to "California Girls" (below) is very creative, titillating and humorous --- like California itself, really.
Sometimes it's good to take a step back and have a good laugh at ourselves as Californians in between practicing our fake smiles and undergoing cosmetic surgery procedures, right?
Wilson highlights herself as one of the down-home girls "who ain't afraid to eat fried chicken and dirty-dance to Merle", but isn't that the ultimate sardonic slap to the Californians she humorously mocks?
Merle Haggard, the country legend she references, is a native Californian. Gasp!
With one of the funniest songs about California, we should thank Gretchen Wilson and "California Girls" for educating the ill-informed among us --- and for not being afraid to rock our world.
"Orange County" is a 2006 California song by the pop group Stefy from Orange County, California.
A coming-of-age styled ballad, "Orange County" tells the tale of a young couple who grows up into an adult world of parenting, bills and debt in the OC.
Lead singer Stefy Rae conveys the song's emotional lyrics with the conviction of one who honestly wonders where all the good times have gone amid a life of Southern California materialism, struggle and regret.
There are many Californians who can relate to the song's portrayal of the disillusionment experienced during an economic downturn.
A cut from the album entitled The Orange Album, "Orange County" is one of the more gloomy and reflective songs about California, though it is done very well.
It just goes to show that, even in the stereotypically 'perfect' world of Orange County, California, remorse and lament over lost youth, innocence and dreams can still happen.
Pabst Brewing Company is relocating its corporate headquarters to Los Angeles in the next 90 days, leaving Chicago behind for sunny Southern California.
Los Angeles, once again confident about its economic future, has convinced Pabst, America's #3 brewer, to ditch Chicagoland for L.A.
The Pabst Brewing Company, acquired 11 months ago for $251 million by billionaire investor Dean Metropoulos, will be run as a family affair. Metropoulos' sons, Daren and Evan, are both Los Angeles residents who will share control of Pabst.
A former GTE financial director, Charles Dean Metropoulos, 65, has since made a fortune as the king of Bumble Bee, Chef Boyardee, Ghirardelli, Vlasic, Hungry Man, PAM, Aunt Jemima, Log Cabin and Duncan Hines.
The Metropoulos sons have introduced a controversial new label called Blast by Colt 45 and signed L.A. rap superstar Snoop Dogg as a brand ambassador.
Pabst is famous for numerous beverage labels, such as Lone Star, Old Milwaukee, Stroh's, Rainier, Colt 45, Old Style, Schlitz and, of course, Pabst Blue Ribbon.
The Los Angeles metropolitan area is the #2 beer market in the U.S., averaging 123-million cases of beer sold annually.
The Pabst Brewing Company relocation to L.A. is contrary to the trend of companies moving out of California, proving the Metropoulos Family's aggressive optimism and faith in the California economy.
"California King Bed" is a 2011 rock power ballad California song by superstar recording artist Rihanna.
Written by songwriters Jermaine Jackson, Andrew Harr, Priscilla Renea and Alex Delicata, "California King Bed" is a single from Rihanna's multi-platinum album, Loud.
Overloaded with references to California, the love song has singer Rihanna "California wishing" for a reconnection with her "California king" in her "California dreams" on a "California king bed", naturally.
This song is the type of gigantic-sounding pop/rock power ballad that always spells M-E-G-A-H-I-T.
One of the most marketable California songs ever, "California King Bed" is a well-done rock power ballad.
Rihanna's LIVE performance of the emotional California song was a smash hit at the 2011 Academy of Country Music Awards.
"California King Bed"was also performed LIVE by Rihanna on American Idol to rave reviews.
Since the release of Rihanna's official video for "California King Bed", the single is burning up the music charts.
It sounds like superstar singer Rihanna definitely has a California king-sized #1 hit single on her hands.
Divorce revenge plastic surgery, or post-divorce cosmetic surgery, is a trend that is exploding as newly divorced California singles reassert their independence and reenter the dating scene.
In the Golden State, 32-percent of the patients who visit plastic surgeons' offices are recently divorced.
What kind of Californians are getting 'revenge plastic surgery' and why?
Jennifer, 41, a single mother of three from San Bernardino, lost 70 pounds, underwent breast enhancement surgery and received Botox and collegen injections.
After a bitter divorce, she wanted to get revenge on her ex-husband by looking younger and sexier.
"I couldn't see myself crying on the couch and stuffing my face while my ex-husband was out living it up," Jennifer told Californiality. "I needed the confidence to tell the whole world, 'Hey, I'm back!' This time around, I'm looking hot and ready for a new life."
After 25 years of marriage, Jennifer split up with her husband after his three affairs with younger women made her feel old, unattractive and worthless.
Since undergoing her plastic surgery procedures, she says the compliments are pouring in, her confidence is sky-high and her ex is calling like crazy.
"It's extremely liberating and very empowering. To say it's been life-changing is an understatement," said Jennifer.
Whether it's revenge against ex-husbands or a personal renaissance, post-divorce plastic surgery is skyrocketing among women, but what about men?
In California's metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, more men than ever before are having facelifts, pectoral implants, hair transplants and penile surgeries.
While many in society feel that a mature man is attractive and 'distinguished', a growing number of California men disagree --- especially men who are newly single after a divorce.
"I wanted to get back in the game, dating wise, so I decided to bite the bullet and go under the knife," said Rick, 47, a divorced father of two from Santa Monica. "I look and feel much younger and stronger now. My cosmetic procedures were worth every penny."
When asked if other men should consider what many call 'revenge surgery', Rick did not hesitate in giving his opinion.
"There used to be a stigma attached to men improving their looks but, in 2011, it's all about health and good psychology. Self-esteem is more valuable than some male myth," Rick told Californiality.
Contrary to the California stereotype, most Californians have never had cosmetic surgery, let alone divorce revenge plastic surgery, but it looks like an ever-increasing number are making up for lost time in 2011.
California's top 10 global brands of 2011 have a combined brand value of nearly $500 billion --- and that's just ten out of many California brands in the global market.
With a $2 trillion economy, California is a land full of entrepreneurs and dynamic business personalities who really know how to creatively market a brand to the world.
It's not called 'The Golden State' for nothing and it's definitely not broke. In fact, California is absolutely choking on money in 2011.
Here are the top 10 California global brands that currently have 195 nations interested enough to spend their money westward:
Most Valuable Global Brands of California
#1
Global Brand: Apple
Brand Value: $153.285 billion
Company: Apple, Inc. (AAPL)
Headquarters: Cupertino, CA
#2
Global Brand: Google
Brand Value: $111.498 billion
Company: Google, Inc. (GOOG)
Headquarters: Mountain View, CA
#3
Global Brand: Wells Fargo
Brand Value: $36.876 billion
Company: Wells Fargo & Company (WFC)
Headquarters: San Francisco, CA
#4
Global Brand: HP
Brand Value: $35.404 billion
Company: Hewlett-Packard Company (HPQ)
Headquarters: Palo Alto, CA
#5
Global Brand: Visa
Brand Value: $28.553 billion
Company: Visa, Inc. (V)
Headquarters: San Francisco, CA
#6
Global Brand: Oracle
Brand Value: $26.948 billion
Company: Oracle Corporation (ORCL)
Headquarters: Redwood Shores, CA
#7
Global Brand: Facebook
Brand Value: $19.102 billion
Company: Facebook, Inc. (Private)
Headquarters: Menlo Park, CA
#8
Global Brand: Disney
Brand Value: $17.290 billion
Company: The Walt Disney Company (DIS)
Headquarters: Burbank, CA
#9
Global Brand: Cisco
Brand Value: $16.314 billion
Company: Cisco Systems, Inc. (CSCO)
Headquarters: San Jose, CA
#10
Global Brand: Intel
Brand Value: $13.904 billion
Company: Intel Corporation (INTC)
Headquarters: Santa Clara, CA
#1 California Poem on the Internet Exclusively on Californiality.com
"I AM CALIFORNIA"
I am the creative genesis persisting amid chaos; the idea made manifest.
I am the eternal state of "becoming".
Ever changing, morphing and mutating, my essence reflects the mind of my Creator.
Purity, perfection and productivity are my principles.
I am innovation; the perennially new. I am relentless forward momentum.
I am the unity of the spiritual, the mental and the physical. I am symmetry and balance.
I am the created who recreates; the blessed who blesses; the beloved who loves without prejudice.
I am expression; the vision seen; the voice heard; the thought interpreted.
Races, religions and cultures are my colors, hues and shades. Variety is my lifeblood.
I am the portrait of humanity which beckons an impassioned brush stroke from every hand.
I am relationship; always conversing, sharing, belonging, reciprocating, accepting and providing.
I am contrary; an oasis in the desert; order from chaos; beauty from ashes; hope from despair; unity from diversity; light from darkness.
I am information, communication, technology and intelligence always seeking Wisdom.
Ever the student of the Eternal, I instruct willing minds through my failures and successes.
I am the experience; the be-in; the adventure; the journey; the trip. I am interactivity and participation.
I am the ultimate; the zenith; the apex; the extreme; the max. Limitless minds are my companions into the timeless unknown.
I am to be merged with; not to simply be admired from afar. My visions are to be shared; my dreams are to be realized; my desires are to be consummated.
I am the fruit of ambition, effort and achievement. I am the rarest wine to be tasted, savored and thoroughly enjoyed, not merely collected.
Golden, priceless and breathtaking, I am the star-studded dream, the quaking vision, and the imagination on fire.
Jacobsen channeled all the Area 51 research and documentation into a shocking page-turner, complete with lots of dirt on U.S. government black operations and their paranoid officials, contractors and workers.
Annie Jacobsen asserts in 'Area 51' that Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin made a deal with Dr. Mengele to give Stalin 'aliens' in exchange for Mengele's political asylum in Russia to avoid international war crimes prosecutions.
