Tonight's Schedule: 'Survivor 14: Fiji' - 'American Idol 6' Results Show - 'Lost'

It's going to be a busy night for me (and my TV). Here's the lowdown:

8 PM EDT: Survivor 14: Fiji - I'll post East Coast Updates on important events and the boot as the show airs here in the NYC area. A full review/recap should be posted late tonight.

9 PM EDT: American Idol 6 Results Show - Stop back here by 9:30 PM EDT to see who got voted off the show, as well as the entire bottom three. I'll be posting and updating an East Coast Update entry as the show progresses, but won't be writing full review/recap later.

10 PM EDT: Lost - I'll be watching, taking screen shots, and writing notes. Due to the late hour (and the fact that my Survivor recap probably won't be up yet), a full review/recap should be posted sometime early tomorrow evening after I return home from work.

Stop on back!

Last Night's 'Late Show without David Letterman'

It seems that David Letterman has caught that norovirus or stomach flu I mentioned is going around my workplace a few days ago. For the first time ever, Letterman showed up to work but couldn't go on with the show. True, he was out for periods of time with heart surgery and shingles, but this was indeed a first.

Scheduled guest Adam Sandler agreed to host the show although he didn't seem all that comfortable with it at all. I'm not a huge Sandler fan, but he did do a few things right.

The first and best thing he did was to bring out his bulldog (of some sort), Matzoh Ball. He interviewed her and she was priceless. I could have spent an hour watching the dog's non-reactions. The other thing he did right was to bring his friend and co-star of his latest movie (Reign Over Me), Don Cheadle, to the show. I enjoyed their attempts and the show would have done well to stick with the dog and Cheadle.

Ah, but, no... Danica Patrick, the race-car driver who recently left Letterman's team was a scheduled guest. It went downhill and the subject somehow became diarrhea. Oh, so not a good topic! Adam's interviewing skills (or lack thereof) really showed. It makes you realize how good Dave actually is. When Adam was playing with the dog or having fun with his friend Don, he did well. He tried one interview and both the guest and the host fell on their faces.

I love the dog, though.

Since tonight's show was pre-taped, we'll have the Real Dave once again. Thursday and Friday night's shows are pre-empted for March Madness. Hopefully, on Monday, Dave will be feeling well. That norovirus is horrible... I'm still avoiding it and running away from those who have come down with it.

'American Idol 6' - The Top Eleven and the British Invasion

Yo, yo, yo. Check it out. Check it out.

Graphic artist Zoetawny made me a new tag for my American Idol posts and, guess what?

They brought it tonight! Now, this is entertainment.

Think about it. If I grew up with Motown, it should go without saying that I grew up with the British Invasion as well. I had my Peter Noone (Herman) crush and all. This is my music. Those were my times. Well, the times of my youth, that is. I turned the show on with a bit of trepidation tonight and was thrilled to find it the best show of the season... perhaps the overall most entertaining show in many seasons. No, the contestants weren't all perfect, but the overall feel to the show provided me with a lot of entertainment. And, dawgs, dudes, dames... that's what I'm here for. Or there. Well, I'm here, but you know what I mean.

First up was Haley Scarnato, looking all sexy and slinky (and a bit wiggly when she jumped up and down). The girls were coached by British pop singer from the 60s, Lulu. She sang "Tell Him." It was a good choice for her and it's finally a song which matches her bouncing about the stage. She's not my favorite performer, but she put on a good performance, easily surpassing most of her past performances. Randy and Paula both sang their praises while Simon commented that her singing probably won't be the only thing the audience talks about -- "you naughty little thing."

Chris Richardson took the stage next. Peter Noone coached the guys and didn't seem all that impressed with Chris. He claimed he didn't really "hear his voice" and advised him to stick to the melody. Chris sang "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying." Sigh. I didn't care for it although I have the original hit somewhere in my 45 RPM vinyl collection (yes, I still have them). Again, he was nasal-sounding and, reflecting back on all of the performances, I thought it one of the weaker ones of the night. This is bad... I ranked Sanjaya's performance higher than Chris's this week. Yipes. Yet, the judges loved it. So, what do I know? I'm sure he's safe. But his version did nothing for me, nothing at all.

Next up was Stephanie Edwards, who Lulu compared to Beyonce. I enjoy Stephanie. I think she's a strong singer and performer who could have knocked the socks off of Fantasia in that year. But her competition this year from the other women is rough. She sang Dusty Springfield's "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me." I thought she did very well, but the judges weren't as pleased with the performance as I was. Randy called it pitchy. Paula mumbles something about "notes falling off." Simon thinks she's losing her edge, losing her soul, and is too old for herself. Say what? I think she's probably safe.

Then there's Blake Lewis. Each week I'm respecting and enjoying this kid more and more. He's not the powerhouse voice of a Lakisha or Melinda, but he's innovative. He sang "Time of the Season" by the Zombies. I loved it! I thought he was teensy bit off pitch a couple of times, but he mesmerized me. It was a perfect song for him and he Blake-ized it well without destroying the original. Who's your Daddy? Oh, it was so good! Randy said it had "massive yo factor" and was brilliant. Paula said he raised the bar. Simon said it was a million times better than last week and proclaimed it the strongest performance so far of the evening. Blake ain't going anywhere.

Lakisha Jones sang next, singing a song which doesn't thrill me -- "Diamonds Are Forever." Hey, if she's going to sing a James Bond movie song, I want her to sing "Goldfinger." Can you imagine her singing that song? She could bring down the house with it. Instead, we got bling. She sang it well, but it wasn't my favorite performance of hers. I think she displayed excellent quality performance skills. But, but, but... it wasn't the show-stopping Kiki! The judges seemed to think along the same lines as I did.

Phil Stacey sang "Tobacco Road." I liked the start and some bits in between, but my overall impression was "So?" I'll say that I do think it's one of his better performances, but Phil doesn't give this girl a thrill. I can't help but think of Uncle Fester (same time as the British Invasion) when I see him. The judges were a bit more positive than I was about his performance, but I think he's on thin ice this week.

Jordin Sparks, the 17-year-old powerhouse, was next with "I Who Have Nothing." She's another one I see improving week after week. Are we sure she's just a kid? Have we checked her ID? My gosh, she did well. The judges were as impressed as I was. Good girl, Jordin! (Lulu was very impressed with her, too.) Simon mentioned how gloomy the song is, but said she sang it beautifully. She sure did.

When they said we'd see the "wild side" of Sanjaya Malakar, I thought that meant he'd sing "Wild Thing" by the Troggs, but nope. Close, but instead he went for The Kinks' "You Really Got Me." And, though I still want him gone, he did an excellent teenybopper heart-stopper version. He moved in other than his silly floating stuff; he reached down into growls and everything. Oh, no. He's not a Melinda or Lakisha, not a Blake or a Chris Sligh. But he actually showed some spark tonight. For that, I won't even mess with his picture. Hey, are teeth really that white? Randy called the performance his best to date. I agree. I think that he's going to be around next week.

Gina Glocksen hit the stage next looking as punk as punk can be. I'm a tad upset with her. She chose a song which I thought defined me in my teen angst years. She chose "Paint It Black" by The Rolling Stones. Keep in mind, I saw the Stones sing the song live in their prime on more than one occasion. She sang it wrong. She kept losing the melody. She sang like she was doing a bad impersonation of Joan Jett doing a bad Mick Jagger impersonation. She mumbled words. The judges were a bit less harsh than I was just now, but Simon deemed her vocals "not good enough." 'Nuff said. Based on that performance alone, she should be a shoe-in for the bottom three. Her past and audience might save her butt, but she better not screw up a song I like again! Sanjaya was more loyal to the Kinks. Sheesh!

Chris Sligh talked with Peter Noone about singing "Henry the Eighth" and I was so hoping he would! "I'm Henry the Eighth, I am, I am. I got married to the woman next door and she's been married seven times before. And every one was an Hen-er-y." That song always makes me smile. But, instead he went for "She's Not There" by the Zombies. It was a good song choice. It wasn't my favorite performance of his, but it was light-years better than Phil Stacey or Gina Glocksen! Second verse, same as the first... the judges enjoyed it. I couldn't but help noticing that a family member or friend of his had a sign playing with Timberlake's song -- "Bringing chubby back."

They saved the best for last. Ah, Melinda Doolittle. Why hasn't she been out there making records for years at this time? She amazes me. She can sing songs I really don't like and make me sit there in awe of what she does to them. She said she was going out of her comfort zone and chose a song from Oliver - "As Long As He Needs Me." Now, my favorite song from that show is "You've Got to Pick a Pocket or Two." So, you can see where I stand. Well, consider yourself a star, Melinda. Consider yourself part of the furniture... or something to that effect. Randy told her, "Dude, you're a pro." Paula said she's in her own league. Simon said it was sensational, impeccable vocals, and said she's indeed as nice as she seems.

I think we'll see Phil Stacey going home this week. What do you think?

'Dancing With The Stars' Blog Discussion Entry

I only catch this show now and then, so I won't be writing regular entries about it. However, I know many of the readers here would like to discuss the show.

So, this entry is for you! Hang out, discuss the show's happenings with others, place wagers on whether Heather Mills' leg will um... be a problem, and just have fun!

Here are some links of interest about the show:

• The ABC official website
• The AOL "Hot Show" feature page (you don't need to have AOL)
• SirLinksALot Dancing With The Stars links page

You can discuss the shows here, use articles you see linked, dance, and more in the comments. I'll be making a label (category) for the show a bit later tonight so that it will be easy to find this post to join in on the discussions. And, I'll probably post something now and then if I catch the show or see some interesting news. So, that label at the bottom of the post will get you here!

NEW DISCUSSION POST IS UP -- DANCING WITH THE STARS FALL 2007

TV Newsy Bits - Monday, March 19, 2007

It's time for those bits! Yes, I'm talking those television-related Newsy Bits I find while perusing that big bad Internet.

What bits did you think I was talking about?

Sheesh.

Here's the skinny:

• AOL Music is streaming Elliott Yamin's (American Idol 5) new CD before it hits the markets. It's free for the listening and you don't have to be an AOL member to access it. He's had a makeover and now a new CD. He's a non-winner on the move. Hey, remember when the guys were so good?
• Remember... Survivor 14: Fiji will be on Wednesday night at 8 PM ET/PT this week, not on its regular Thursday night. Celebrity Spider has a bit of info with minor promotional spoilers in this article.
• The local newspaper (online) has an article about Jersey Girl (who woulda thunk it) Muna Heaven being fired on The Apprentice: L.A. Now if Jersey City inhabitants could pick up that accent, youse guys.
• ET Online has an interesting article about how fans on the Internet kept Jericho alive and well during its long hiatus. Which reminds me... I keep getting more information from Primatech Paper (Heroes). I have to get that stuff written up for you.
• Some artists in NYC are suing NBC claiming that the idea of an artist painting the future was stolen from them by the writer of Heroes.

Okay, I'll be settling in to watch The Black Donnellys before long while taping 'Til Death Do Us Part with John Waters as The Groom Reaper on CourtTV. Paula Abdul is on Letterman tonight, so I have to see that!

'The Apprentice: L.A.' - East Coast Update - 3/18/07

Once again, I won't be writing a full review/recap of the show, but here's the skinny:

The task was to create a webisode.
Arrow with James as PM won the task.
Kristine was the PM of Kinetic.
The Trumpette was back (Ivanka).
Muna was fired.
Oh... and Arrow got to meet the Governator.

'The Amazing Race 11: All Stars' - Ep. 5 -or- "We didn't come here to be sissyfoots."

Each week I'm reminded why I like Oswald and Danny so much. Even when they bicker a bit (like they did tonight), they can be a hoot and deliver some of the best lines in the show.

On the other hand, every week I'm reminded more and more why Charla and Mirna irk me so. In my book, Mirna is more irksome than Charla. I honestly think I'd take to Charla much better if she had a different partner.

Seven teams remain. Who will be eliminated next?

The teams started out from their last Pit Stop at the "End of the World." This is the closest we've seen the race actually get to Antartica, which is kind of cool in and of itself. Heck, not cool... outright cold! Teri and Ian were shocked that Romber was eliminated while Mirna seemed to take credit for the elimination. Oswald and Danny, the first team to arrive, left first at 12:02 AM. In last place, Charla and Mirna left at 2:41 AM, almost a three-hour gap betwixt first and last. Will it matter? Of course not. It's the Amazing Race!

While Team Guido (Joe and Bill) promised they were going to show a "kinder and gentler Guido," we see them provoked later on in the leg. The teams had to travel to a glacier where they received one avalanche beacon and were directed to follow the signal to find a buried beacon with their next clue. It all started out with an 8 AM opening, thus a bunching point.

The more I see Eric, the more he irks me, too. Perhaps he should team up with Mirna. He deliberately tried to annoy the Guidos and seems to have some problems with both gay and older folks on the whole. The Guidos walked away refusing to let him instigate problems which may make them look bad.

Once the gates to the glacier were opened, some teams zoomed right through the task. Others had issues. For example, once again Dustin and Kandice blew by a clue. But they caught themselves this time and went back before losing too much time. Charla/Mirna took a long time, but Danny and Oswald took forever. The ChaChas also took turns being cranky about it.

After completing the glacier task, teams had to fly 7,000 miles to the town of Maputo in Mozambique. Any plane tickets have to be purchased through travel agents as the airport can't sell them. The show has back-up tickets which would get them in at 3 PM if teams cannot obtain earlier flights. But all the teams, including the lagging ChaChas, managed to get on the same flight and their arrival time was 9:40 AM.

Once in Maputo, the teams had to get in marked cars with drivers and head to APOPO Training Field. Again, there was a bunching point and Eric called the Guidos "freaks." It was there that they faced a Roadblock (a task only one member of a team can do) and one of the coolest ones I've ever seen. Rats! Oh, I'm not talking the rats running around KFC/Taco Bell in the Village. I'm talking working rats. These rats have been trained to detect explosive landmines and work with trainers. It's fascinating to read about and gives us a whole new insight of a much-detested animal. Well, I never detested them. I just don't want them in my abode... or where I eat. Pet rats have always been okay with me.

Not only did I think the challenge was fun and really interesting, but Charla's rat was more interested in grooming for the cameras than finding the landmine/clue. The name of the Roadblock was "Who Smells a Rat?" I couldn't help but compare Mirna to them each time they showed her. During the task, one of the ChaChas promised their rat, Nelson, that if he finds the clue, "We'll take you to a nice lab where they'll apply make-up on you." Ian gave his Cagney impersonation, "You dirty rat."

Once the rats did their thing for the teams, they had to travel 50 miles back into Maputo, but it wasn't as easy to get to the location as they thought. The road sign must have loved the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz. "Some people go this way, and others go this way." The road sign indicated Maputo was either to the left or straight ahead. The teams going straight ended up lost. Or, was it the teams who went left who got lost? All I can say was one way was better than the other and shifted the dynamics of who was leading the pack.

Once they finally got to the next clue, it was a Detour. Both choices were ways folks make a living in the area. In Pamper It, the teams had to go to a market stall where they had to sell nail-painting to locals. Men in the area both do the painting and have their nails painted. Once they earned a certain amount, they would receive their next clue. In Porter It, teams had to load ten bags with coal, sew them shut, then lug a single bag by foot to a location in town.

The Guidos were running in first place at the time and chose Porter. Hey, Eric can say what he may, but there are two male gay teams in the race. Both chose the physical task of Porter It. Alas, they should have chosen Pamper It. Mirna and Charla, way behind the other teams, finished that one in short order. So did the Beauty Queens (Dustin and Kandice), who even took the time to paint a young girl's nails even though she had no money. Geez, Ian and Teri were headed to Porter, but accidentally ended up in Pamper and they nailed the task, too! (Get it? Nailed the nail task. I kill myself sometimes.)

Ahem.

But all the teams faced with the Porter task found it dirty, time-consuming, and probably the wrong choice. Uchenna and Joyce fell way behind as they got lost while lugging the bag of coal around.

Here's the order at the Pit Stop in Fortaleza, Maputo:

1. Charla and Mirna - Their first time (and hopefully last time) in first place ever on the show. They won a trip to Aruba.
2. Dustin and Kandice
3. Teri and Ian (who were shocked they did so well)
4. Oswald and Danny - Oswald promptly chased Phil around wanting to hug him with his coal-covered hands. That was a hoot! When Phil commented about them taking the coal task, one of them said, "Hey, we didn't come here to sissyfoot!" (Ah, but I bet they will shop again sometime!)
   
5. Joe and Bill - They beat Eric and Danielle in a close footrace which prompted Eric to blame Danielle and later fuss that they were "beat by a bunch of queens." You go, Queens!
6. Eric and Danielle
7. Uchenna and Joyce

As it was one of the three planned non-elimination legs, Uchenna and Joyce are still in the race. However, they are marked for elimination. They must come in first place on the next leg or suffer a thirty-minute penalty which theoretically could make them lose the race.

I still hold with wanting Charla and Mirna gone, but Eric is about on par with them. Danielle, I have nothing against. Well, other than the fact that she's running the race with Eric. I'm liking the Guidos and ChaChas more each week and have to say the same for Teri and Ian. Dustin and Kandice are a strong team in many ways, but this is the second time they've gone by a clue. They have to pay more attention. I liked Uchenna and Joyce in their season, but they are dragging a bit this season. I did smile at Joyce's reaction to the rat... "Oh, he's cute!"

Who are you cheering on?

East Coast Update - 'Amazing Race 11: All Stars' - Pit Stop Order - 03/18/07

I guessed it right - a non-elimination leg.

The Pit Stop arrival order was:

1. Charla and Mirna (ew) - Won a trip to Aruba
2. Dustin and Kandice
3. Teri and Ian
4. Oswald and Danny
5. Joe and Bill
6. Eric and Danielle
7. Uchenna and Joyce (Still in, but targeted for elimination - must come in 1st place or suffer a 30 minute penalty)

A full review/recap will be posted later tonight. Stop on back!

Tonight's 'Amazing Race 11: All Stars' Blogging Plan

As I post this, the show is about ready to start here in the NYC area (darn March Madness). In about an hour (9:45 or so EDT), I'll post the East Coast Update with the finish order at the Pit Stop and Philimination (or not - we're due a non-elimination leg). A full review/recap will be posted late tonight.

What's Happening With CourtTV These Days?

I'm lucky enough to get some press releases and such from the good folks at CourtTV. Although I don't think I've ever watched more than a few minutes of live trial happenings, CourtTV (or Animal Planet) is often where I hang out during phases of channel surfing.

One new show I won't catch while channel surfing because I'm now a Black Donnellys watcher is a new series which premieres tomorrow night -- 'Til Death Do Us Part. No no no, unlike the sitcom with the similar name, this one sounds very intriguing and promises to be extremely quirky. I mean, we're talking John Waters as the Groom Reaper. Yes, I'm talking John Waters of Hairspray, Pink Flamingos, and Serial Mom fame. He has a seriously twisted sense of humor and I'll be taping the back-to-back episodes which start at 10 PM ET/PT on Monday.

In other CourtTV news, I received a press release which says that CourtTV will be getting a new name, a new logo, and a new look. They'll be airing quarterly specials from The Smoking Gun, a site I've peeked in on a lot over the years. After all, they get the quickest and best dirt on reality show contestants. The re-branded network isn't slated to launch until January, 2008. I just hope they don't stop showing old COPS reruns. Yeah, call it guilty pleasure television.

Pants Madness - This Week on 'The Late Show with David Letterman' - March 19-23, 2007

Huh. Once again, I try to report on this week's guests and the show's website isn't updated as of yet. What's up with that? Oh, well... there are listings available for me to check on the guest list to report here in a timely manner, at least.

Here are the guests we can expect to see this week:

• Monday, March 19: Bernie Mac, American Idol judge Paula Abdul, and music guest Joss Stone. Now, of course I'll have to watch for Paula's state of mind. And what's she doing in NY when she has to be in CA for the live show on Tuesday? We'll have to see if she falls under the table during the show!
• Tuesday, March 20: Adam Sandler promoting his new movie, Reign Over Me, race-car driver Danica Patrick, music guest Lucinda Williams.
• Wednesday, March 21: Jack Black, journalist Lara Logan, and (get this) inventor of the beer-launching refrigerator, John W. Cornwell.
• Thursday, March 22 and Friday, March 23: No show listings at all due to March Madness basketball. There aren't even any repeats listed. So, I predict an earlier bedtime for me! New shows resume Monday and the ones listed for this week (above) are new, not repeats. I guess he just has a short week, eh?

But, if I can get this written every Sunday morning, I'm not sure why the paid person for the show's website can't get the information out there!

Another NYC CBS2 News Change

Well, at least it doesn't look like he's being wished to the cornfield as was Roz Abrams and many others. However, meterologist Jeff Berardelli is leaving WCBS2 (NYC) to work for a CBS affiliate in Miami. He seems to be happy about the decision, saying how much he loves to dive and hike. And, of course, the hurricane area is exciting for a meterologist. But, I'll always think of him as the guy who lived his dream of working his chosen field in the city where he was raised. I'll think of the Staten Island boy who had his mom out in the yard measuring the snow and reporting via telephone on the depth.

Jeff will still be involved in the Tunnel to Towers run, so we'll see him then. Although I may be a bit ignorant about news markets, it would seem that the NYC location is a bit higher up the career ladder than Miami. On the other hand, in NYC he's always under the shadow of John Bolaris and the opportunity may offer him chances not available at Channel 2.

I enjoyed Jeff and will miss him here, but wish him the best.

In another NYC news related bit, Duke Castigliano is over at FOX 5 with sports these days. What comes around, goes around. If you're interested in the other WCBS2 news change stories, just hit the New York City TV link at the bottom of this post.

TV Newsy Bits - Saturday, March 17, 2007

Happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone! While years ago I would be skiing the green-tinted slopes at Kelly's Irish Alps in the Berkshires, now I'm just slogging through 6 inches of ice pellets to get to the store.

Here are the TV Newsy Bits I found out on the Internet as I huddle with my computer for warmth:

• Celebrity Spider has a sneak peak into the route for Sunday's Amazing Race episode.
• The latest fired Apprentice, Surya, sounds off in this TVGuide.com article.
• Survivor Richard Hatch isn't surviving his prison time all that well according to this article.
• For those who love Dancing With the Stars, AOL has a new feature page for the show. You don't have to be an AOL member to access it and it should have all the show information you'll ever need!

'Lost' - "Par Avion"

Yet another good Lost episode. I think they're trying to spoil us. What do you think?

The past few weeks have seen the show move more forward in story than I feel the entire "fall" season did. Oh, yeah... there are some new mysteries. But, at least I'm finding the show interesting once again.

This episode was basically Claire-centric, but once again running a bit light on the flashbacks. Light in the amount of time spent, not on the news contained within them, that is.

The Flashbacks
A younger Claire, sporting dyed black hair and even a punkish look about her, crashed her car while driving with her mother. Her mother wasn't expected to live and Claire went through a major guilt trip over it all. Not helping that guilt trip was her Aunt Lindsay, who seemed to bear a grudge against Claire even before the accident.

Oh, wait, we've seen her before. We saw her some episodes back yelling at Jack's father, Christian Shepard! Could they be? Would they be? Yes, they are! Claire and Jack are half-siblings. But I'm getting a bit ahead of myself here. Back to the story...

Claire and her aunt find out that a mysterious benefactor has told the hospital he'd pay all the bills. It's pretty obvious that Claire's mother will probably remain in a vegetative state for the rest of her life with no chance of recovery.

Then Claire comes across Dr. Shepard in her mother's room. He admits to being her father, said he spent a lot of time with her when she was very young. But her mother (and aunt) didn't like the idea that he had another family, thus they became estranged. She made peace with her mother before boarding Flight 815, but wanted nothing to do with her father.

The Island - Sayid, Locke, Kate Storyline
Sayid, Locke, Kate, and the captured Mikhail (eye-patch dude) followed the electrical wiring map Sayid had found at the Flame Station. Locke is still acting a bit out-of-character, bickering with Sayid. Locke and Rousseau both think that Mikhail should have been shot, that he's of no use to them. And, of course, Mikhail himself would rather be dead than captured.

Kate asked Rousseau why she didn't ask her more about her daughter, Alex. Rousseau's answer was odd. She said something about if Jack were missing six years, not knowing him, didn't want to know. Hey, don't ask me. It was almost as if she was avoiding the question or frightened about what Alex may have become... or worried that Alex had forgotten her.

Mikhail told them that they had arrived on the island by submarine, but that an electromagnetic pulse two weeks ago had destroyed almost all of their technology. Kate angrily started questioning him. He told her that they (Sayid, Locke, Kate) were "not on the list." According to him, they were flawed -- angry, weak, frightened. He started to say "Ben is not..." before trailing off. Not the leader? In reference to Locke, he also trailed off. "I know he was para..." Paralyzed, for sure.

They came across what appeared to be some sort of electronic barrier fence doohickey to the Barracks, their planned destination. It looked like fat short telephone poles with metal spheres separated by open space.

Mikhail (remember, he wants to die), told them the fences were defunct along with all of their equipment. He told them the barrier surrounds the entire barracks area. Locke freaked, saying not to touch the poles or go through the open area. Then he shoved Mikhail through.

Mikhail said, "Thank you." He then immediately started foaming at the mouth and blood spurted from his ears. Poof, the Patch is dead.

Sayid questioned whether Locke was there for Jack or not. "Of course, I'm here for Jack. Why else?" Locke is still acting weirder than Locke normally acts. Sayid found some C4 explosive in Locke's bag. Now, Locke had told him earlier that he wouldn't have followed "Enter 77" had he known about the explosive. Yet he knew and took some. "It never hurts to have some C4."

They decided they could climb over the barrier and, using some logs, did so. They sneaked up on the Barracks... and there was Jack. Jack was having a good ol' time playing football with his friends. So, perhaps Rousseau thought brainwashing? I don't know.

The Island - Claire, Desmond, Charlie, Etc. Storyline
Charlie decided to "seize the day" and take Claire on a picnic. Of course, we know that when Desmond approached and suggested he join him on a hunt, that he would be saving Charlie from yet another death. But Claire doesn't know about that.

Claire saw some migratory birds fly above and thought that if they could capture one, they could send a "rescue us" note with it. But Desmond was pretty insistent. Charlie knew what had to be up, so he went with Desmond. Claire was really ticked off and enlisted Jin and Sun to help her with the birds.

Just as they were about to catch one using chum, Desmond shot and scared the birds away. He claimed he was following a boar. Claire thought he didn't want her catching the birds for some reason.

Claire followed Desmond as he went along the beach, climbing some rocks, then rescued a bird. When she confronted him, he told her about "his gift." He also told her that Charlie died (again) right on the rocks by where he picked up the bird.

Aw, Claire and Charlie got all lovey-dovey once again, attached a note to the dove's leg and set it into the sky.

And, there ya go...

'American Idol 6' - East Coast Update - 3/14 Results Show

So far, they've announced two of the bottom three...

Brandon Rogers (not unexpected by me)
Phil Stacey (a bit of a surprise, but I'm not thrilled by him)

Remaining to choose from, we have Sanjaya Malakar and Haley Scarnato. Of course, they're dragging this out. I will return to update this once more is known. Stop back!

UPDATE: Sanjaya added to bottom three. Brandon and Sanjaya bottom two.

Brandon leaves, Sanjaya is safe.

Did I call that last night or what?

Whatever Will I Watch Tonight? - Wednesday, March 14, 2007

It should go without saying (so don't read this out loud) that I'll be watching the American Idol results show tonight as it airs here on the East Coast at 9 PM. And, but of course, I'll post an East Coast Update about the voted-off contestant as soon as the information airs.

I won't be reviewing the show, per se. I can see that now - "Diana Ross sang. So-and-so got voted off. All cried and hugged. Then So-and-so was forced to sing in front of millions at the worst time of his/her life." But, especially if you're in another time zone and just have to know or want to chime in with your two cents -- stop back about 9:30 EDT for the update.

At 8 PM ET/PT, there is a new Jericho on CBS. I've missed the episodes since the end of the show's hiatus, so I'm not sure if I'll watch it or not. There's also a new episode of Bones on FOX. That's more likely to catch my attention at this point. I feel like I'm watching too many ongoing must see every episode type of shows and Bones isn't a demanding constant watch. NBC has a repeat Dateline, while ABC has a new George Lopez followed by a repeat According to Jim.

At 9 PM, it's American Idol vote results show for the first half hour. FOX is following it with 'Til Death which I absolutely don't want to watch. CBS has a repeat Criminal Minds for the hour while NBC is airing a new Crossing Jordan. That doesn't help me with my half-hour dilemma. ABC has a new According to Jim followed by a new In Case of Emergency. I might turn to the latter for the odd half-hour. I saw the show once before and wasn't too impressed. But I think it's better than 'Til Death.

At 10 PM, you know my must-see show is Lost. Alas, because of its late hour, I won't be able to do a proper review/recap until I return from work tomorrow. CBS has a repeat C.S.I.: NY and NBC has a repeat Medium. A&E has its Sopranos episode running at that time, but I've given up trying to catch up with that show. I'm struggling to keep up with the times I've been catching up on The Wire on BET (tomorrow I'll actually watch that one at 9 PM for the first time ever) and, as I mentioned before, I have too many can't-miss-an-episode-or-I'm-lost shows on my TV platter. The Sopranos had to go.

What will you be watching tonight?

Catching Up With 'The Black Donnellys'

I apologize that I'm a bit late reporting on this week's show. I've had a rather odd week myself, perhaps not like Tommy Donnelly's latest, but odd enough. Two friends died, one by murder, the other a natural death but still awaiting an autopsy for exactly why it happened.

Then, yesterday, getting off the train from my work commute, I stepped pretty much smack-dab into a murder scene. Future trains were held back, but all the cops were still arriving, emergency folks were trying to save a man shot several times in the chest... in broad daylight, in a busy downtown area I consider very safe at that hour of the day.

There was mass confusion on the scene and although I was five minutes from home, I got home over an hour later. No, I didn't see the shooters. It apparently happened just prior to when I arrived. I did see the victim from a distance. It brought back to me how precious life really is and unpredictable things really are. I had planned to write up my Black Donnellys report upon my return home from work yesterday, but it felt almost disrespectful to write about fictional mob stories after going through that.

Oh... and everyone I know seems to have caught the latest norovirus (stomach flu) that's going around. I've escaped so far, but live in fear. It would be a shame to waste paid sick days being ill, wouldn't it?

But life does go on. And, I definitely want to touch on Monday's episode of The Black Donnellys. Although the episode didn't have as much humorous interaction between the characters, it also didn't have a horrifying gory mob hit scene, either.

It seems that Tommy leads a bit of a charmed life. Think about it. He killed the leader of the Irish mob and then gets asked to host the wake in the bar owned by his brother. And, he carries it off? Even though the lead mobster's revengeful brother has an inkling that Tommy had something to do with the death, he carries it off!

But the price seems to be unrequited love as Jenny Riley just can't take having the goings-on in her life.

The Mob brother took Jenny down to the basement of the bar to get Tommy and his brothers (sans Sean in the hosptal still) down there for "questioning." Put in mobspeak, that would be busted kneecaps. (Why do these guys use an ax? I've never known mobsters to use axes on a regular basis. What are they, lumbermen?) Kevin freaked and ran, so it was up to junkie wild-card Jimmy and Tommy to face the mob dudes. Tommy's quick talking saved them. He told them how he was the last to see the murdered mobster because he asked for his help to save them from the Italian mobsters after murdering one in that very basement. Blood in the drain saved their butts.

As I mentioned before, I'm finding this show intriguing. Although this recent episode wasn't action-packed, didn't provide much dark humor either... it made me actually respect the character of Tommy Donnelly a bit more. It touched on his past and how the past has affected the present.

Did you watch the show? What did you think?

'American Idol' - The Final 12 on the Big Stage

Tonight was the first outing for the final twelve contestants. All are winners as all will participate in the tour, so their lives have certainly already been changed. [Update note: Apparently only the top ten go on tour, but the exposure the top twelve get is life-changing nonetheless.]

I know I've voiced my own opinions on who I think should win and once again tonight, those thoughts were also voiced by Simon. To me, it's the Melinda Doolittle and Lakisha Jones show.

But tonight, it was also the Diana Ross show. I grew up on old school Motown and have observed and listened to Diana Ross throughout her career. The last time I saw her live was at a very rainy free concert in Central Park (NYC) some long years ago. I thought that she may have gotten a bit "odd" over the years since. After all, much of what we've seen connected with her in the last decade or so was Michael Jackson related. Ah, but not so! I thought her advice to each contestant was the most spot on that we've ever seen in this situation. She rocks!

Alas, some of the contestants, not so much.

First up was Brandon Rogers. I want to like him for some reason. However tonight, I just couldn't. He sang "You Can't Hurry Love." He forgot some of the words and didn't recover all that well. It was just kind of boring. Yes, it was better than I can sing, but...! Randy said he had to be a lot better and it was boring. Paula thought his nerves got to him. Simon said it was a complete letdown, not star quality, not good enough, sorry. Sigh, Simon said it.

Then there was Melinda Doolittle. I swear this woman has magic to do songs I don't even like well enough to enamor me with her voice and stage presence. She sang "Home" from The Wiz. I really don't like that song. I don't like it at a show. I don't like it in the snow. I just don't like it, don't you know. But I sat there and admired her talent. Paula sobbed through the performance. Randy called it hot and exciting. It gave Paula goosebumps. Simon said she made a boring song fantastic and likened her to a young Gladys Knight. Pip Pip Hooray for Doolittle!

Then I was let down by my favorite male singer on the show... Chris Sligh. Now, Diana told him to follow the melody. He didn't. He wanted to "hip" up "Endless Love." He didn't wear his glasses and looked even pastier than usual. Oh, he was better than Brandon, but he let me down nonetheless. Randy called it a mess. Paula told him he tried to be hip and cool with a classic song and he didn't need to do it that way. Simon said the arrangement ruined it and to keep his glasses on. Come back, Chris!

Gina Glocksen chose to sing "Love Child." I think it was a good song choice for her. Diana told her to pronunciate and project, tell the story. I thought she did okay, but nothing to write a blog about. Randy, who was very hoarse this evening, said it was pitchy with no excitement. Paula said she was better than how she sang. Simon declared it okay, not terrible, not fantastic... a middle-pack performance.

Next up was Sanjaya Malakar. I'm going to keep messing with photos of him until he goes away. Diana thinks he's "love." Blech. He sang "Ain't No Mountain High Enough." Now, there was a boring rendition. I don't care how much he smiles to the camera while he sings. Randy said it was weak, but his hair looked good. Paula told him he must explode and get into his songs, but he's adorable. Simon said that a wail will be heard somewhere in Beverly Hills when Diana hears what he did to her song. To say something nice, he said Sanjaya was brave.

Haley Scarnato took the stage next singing "Missing You." Diana said that Haley has a recording studio voice moreso than a live performance one. I think she may have something there. I thought she came across as a bit mumbly and she forgot some of the lyrics. At times, the tone in her voice was very nice, but the flaws were many and obvious. Randy said it was a valiant effort, she forgot the words and it was pitchy. Paula told her she looked lovely, but forgot the words and was pitchy. Simon said he didn't think it was all that bad and she had a real stage presence.

Phil Stacey sang "I'm Going to Make You Love Me." I thought it was perhaps my favorite performance of his so far this season although it was a bit boring. Just going on the voice, he did well. Presentation, not so hot. Randy thought the vocals were hot, but the overall song was on the boring side. Paula said he needed to up the tempo a bit. Simon said the tempo was fine, but he has to watch not to shout the big notes. He said it was better than last week. I agree.

We found that Lakisha's nickname is Kiki. I like it. She sang a song that seems like it's been in my life all my life - "God Bless the Child." I have the original Billie Holiday, the Diana Ross from Lady Sings the Blues, and even Blood, Sweat and Tears cover. There's something about that song which has always touched a chord with me. And, for Lakisha Jones, one of my two favorites to sing it? Wow. She added a bit of herself into the song, yet remained true to the original. Wow.

Randy said it was a perfect song choice and sensational. Paula called the performance beautiful. Simon told her that you've either got it or you don't... and she has it. He once again said that Lakisha and Melinda are in a different league from the others. He's so right.

I have to give Blake Lewis some credit for being into some of the technical aspects. He tech'd up "You Keep Me Hanging On." The judges didn't care for it, but in a way I did. That's a song which has been covered by many artists, as well.

From the real dragging version by Vanilla Fudge to the more up tempo Supremes. No, I wouldn't go out and buy it, but I did find it interesting. Had he been strictly adhering to the original, I think it would have been boring. Simon didn't "get it" at all, but I kind of did. It's no Melinda or Lakisha, but definitely on the interesting side.

Stephanie Edwards sang "Love Hangover." And she skipped the disco part! Blasphemy! I thought she looked attractive and sang quite nicely at times although she's another one who forgot the words at one point. Diana Ross said she had star quality in the pre-performance taped segment. I think she does. But, this performance didn't do it for me. Randy mentioned forgetting the lyrics. Paula told her to strive to be better. Simon said it was if she just sang the intro to the song and that it was the wrong song.

Chris Richardson didn't impress me with his version of "The Boss." I thought he sounded nasal and it was my least favorite performance of his so far. Randy thought he overdid it a bit. Paula thought he nailed the blend between contemporary and the original. Simon said the vocals were dreadful and terrible. I have to go with Simon on this one.

Jordin Sparks closed the show "If We Hold On Together," not really a favorite song of mine. But, wow. She nailed it. I can't believe this kid is only seventeen! She has a good voice and poise. She makes her age-counterpart Sanjaya look like a silly kid. (Oh, wait... he is!) Randy declared it a three-girl race. Paula gushed. Simon called it a "gooey song." (Yes!) But he said it was a good vocal and thinks she has a shot at the finals.

So, who's going home? Of course, I want it to be Sanjaya, but I think the teenybopper vote will keep him in longer. I think we may say goodbye to Brandon tomorrow night. I think all of the girls are safe although Haley might be on the edge.

TV Newsy Bits - Monday, March 12, 2007

No Heroes tonight. Yikes! At least there are two new episodes of The New Adventures of Old Christine and, later on, The Black Donnellys.

It's going to be an odd week -- no Survivor either (on Thursday). Oh, but fear not... I'm sure I'll have something to watch!

Here are the TV Newsy Bits I found out and about the Internet today:

• "If You're Female, it's Over," claims Rita, the recently booted Survivor contestant in an interview on Reality News Online. She has a point.
• In Amazing Race bits, David and Mary are featured in a recent interview. Surprisingly, they don't think much of Mirna and Charla (heh). They wanted Rob and Amber to win. Speaking of Romber, Reality TV World has an interview with them posted. As I mentioned in my review/recap of last night's show, the end was nowhere near as close as editing made it appear. Rob said in the interview that there was a good 10-15 minutes between Charla/Mirna and them. The other team was at the mat before Rob finished reading his letter.
• According to Celebrity Spider, Josh Holloway (Sawyer of Lost) thinks the local police target show stars.

East Coast Update - 'The Apprentice: L.A. - Firing 03/11

Although I'm no longer doing full reviews of the show, here's the East Coast lowdown:

• The teams had to create a halftime show promoting GNC for a pro soccer game.
• Kinetic, led by Kristine, won.
• The reward was golf with Trump and golf clubs.
• Surya brought Tim and James to the Boardroom
• Surya got fired.