'Big Brother' - Past Winners, Present Strategies?

As the houseguests sleep, I thought it would be interesting to pick up and run with something commenter Barbwire came up with on a previous entry here.

In thinking about Jameka and Amber's game strategy or lack there of, she wondered about past winners of the show and whether some flew under the radar. I'm offering my take here and would like to open the discussion floor for your thoughts. Does Amber really have a strategy? Jameka? If either wins, will it be a purely under the radar win? How about Zach? Has a lack of strategy won the game before?

Here's my take on the previous winners:

Season 1 Winner: Eddie McGee didn't play under the radar, but no one really had a plan that year.

Season 2 Winner: Will Kirby, didn't play under the radar yet threw every comp, his strategy was to lie and tell them he was lying. Puppetmaster and probably my favorite all-time houseguest.

Season 3 Winner: Lisa Donahue - now, I think she played a bit under the radar. Not my favorite player, nowhere near it. She was strong at times in comps.

Season 4 Winner: Jun Song, had a reputation for playing under the radar but I think she actually had a strategy and was a bit sneaky. I think she was pretty game-smart and used others (especially Jee) to her advantage.

Season 5 Winner: Drew Daniel, not the strongest strategist by a long shot. Joined an alliance and was likable. I think I'd put him in the flew somewhat under the radar camp.

Season 6 Winner: Maggie Ausburn, definitely didn't fly under the radar, but instead had others do all of her dirty work for her. In my opinion, a bit of puppetmaster although certainly not as entertaining for me as was Will Kirby.

Season 7 Winner: Mike "Boogie" Malin, didn't fly under the radar but instead rode on Will Kirby's coattails throughout the season. I was NOT happy to see him win, not at all.

Here's my take on those left in the house right now and their strategies:

Amber: Has no real strategy, had a vision she'd win, thinks she's good and nice, thus worthy of winning. She's playing under the radar, but her tears and whining bring her to the forefront -- that's not strategy, though.

Jameka: Nice and good person, make friends with all and win. Under the radar.

Daniele: Strong in comps, I think her original strategy was to get along well with people, win comps. Immaturity issues, her father in the house, and the personalities of others have affected her strategy. A change to super-alliance with Dad and win at the end because they like her better.

Dick: Studied the game and often says he wants to emulate Will Kirby. Alas, his own personality does him in. Change in strategy to work with Daniele. He'll be thrilled if she wins, but is also thinking about his own position in the house. Cooks, cleans, makes himself useful even in rant stages.

Jessica: Under the radar, nice, but uses Eric and others to do her dirty work for her, thus still coming up in favor of others. Decent people skills and she's using them. Decent in comps. I do think her strategy is a bit under the radar when compared with others in the house, but a stronger player than Amber or Jameka. She actually tries to think ahead in the game.

Zach: Almost under the radar, but his strategy is showing more as the numbers in the house dwindle. He puts himself in the position of siding with the HOH each week promising to vote their way in an effort to keep the spotlight off himself. He listens and picks up on everything. He would have been more successful with different housemates. I could see him and Roddy teaming up, etc. Zach puts himself in the position where he never offends anyone by nominating them, never wins any comps. Maybe he can't win comps because he did really want to save his own butt with the POV this week.

Eric: He's the Big Brother scholar, but his strategy has had to change due to America's Player. If he were at his own devices, I think he could have every move planned out ahead. Unfortunately for him, the AP has thrown him some curve balls. I think he's handled the cover-up with the stray votes and such better than I ever could. I'd actually like to see how he'd play the game on his own. I think he could very well be the best strategist in the house if not for the AP intervention.

Your thoughts?

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Report - Into Sunday Morning 8/26

Yes, I think Zoetawny nailed it. Eric is a legend in his own mind!

I seriously wonder what his game plan was prior to being saddled with the America's Player gig. He knows the game in and out. He probably would fare well if he was playing it straight up.

But there are some issues with Eric, some he could improve with a bit of restraint and others a bit beyond his control. What he could improve is he talks too much and talks without first thinking. I think he sometimes talks just to talk. That he could change if he worked at it.

Harder for him are his mannerisms and body language. He's on the hyper side, always looks either nervous or guilty, wiggles around as he talks, and his eyes are all over the place as he talks or even sits. That body language tends to make him come across as sneaky or dishonest even if he's being truthful. He's squirmy!

Controlling his body language would be a tougher task than controlling his mouth, but I think it's hurting him in the house and with anyone who watches the feeds regularly. They don't show as much of his body language on the show as we see on the feeds.

Anyhoo ... here are the late night and overnight happenings from inside that Big Brother House of Lovable Buffoons (Or Not):

• For the longest time last night the feeds were intermittent as Daniele kept reading out loud from the BB Rules Book. "When Big Brother announces a lockdown, you must immediately ..." Feeds block. "Houseguests can use the pool at anytime but may not swim alone as there is no lifeguard." You guys don't know how much I'd love to get my hands on that book!
• Evel Dick assumed the chef position last night, cooking dinner for everyone.
• As BB won't let them have good cutlery, he had to chop and mince with a plastic knife.
• He swore at and bullied the [bleepin'] broccoli and carrots.
• Evel Dick said he has never seen so many green potatoes at a time.
  
• Amber is upset. She wants to talk to Jessica. She has too much to pack. People are deserting her. Fuss, fuss, whine, whine, sniffle, honk.
• Daniele thinks it's odd that they only got all those banner planes within one week and none since.
• They have the fake rats from the Power of Veto comp. Amber seems disturbingly attached to hers. (It's not a living being, Amber!)
• Jessica told Eric that, during the POV comp, she was thinking that Amber just might win. Apparently Amber had a good showing in the comp. Scary, eh?
• Jameka and Jessica plan to make Sunday's dinner.
• Zach offered to make dinner for Jameka and she told him to cook for everyone, not just her. Amber points out that he's said he was going to do so three different times and hasn't done it yet.
• Heh. Eric said that when he was in first grade he wrote an essay named "Sometimes I Wish I Was a Fly." They sent him to the school psychologist.
• Daniele told Dick she "can't stand these people."
• Jessica decided her fake rat has "devil eyes" and places it so it can guard the HOH room.
• Jessica, Amber, and Jameka tried to de-trunk Eric in the hot tub. (Y'see, in this aspect he does very well. Women are not intimidated by him and he doesn't creep them out at all. It's almost like a kid thing going on.)
• Dick exposed himself to Eric. Eric found it oddly amusing that it just seemed part of being in the house.
• Daniele told Dick that Amber kept complaining that Nick didn't mention her in the letter she received.
• Eric told Jessica that if the nominations remain the same, he'll say in the POV speech that he respects her opinion. But he'll try to scare everyone first by acting like he's going to shake things up.
• Daniele and Dad had a lengthy nice talk about family memories and house happenings. Good. No whining.
• Daniele said she can't talk about the trip, but watch for a "New Amber who's serious and kicking ass." Then she laughed.
• Dick wants an honest alliance -- no side deals with Jameka or others.
• Eric later told Jessica that now he's worried that Dick may have some side deals going on since he brought up the issue.
• When talking about Amber's visions, Eric said, "What is she? Miss Cleo?"
• The Alliance of Four -- Dick, Daniele, Eric, and Jessica -- came up with a new name for their alliance. It's the Little Julie Chen Alliance. Um. Okay.
• Eric thinks this might be the most bitter jury ever on the show. I think he could very well be right.
• Eric called Amber the One Person Nerd Herd. Not to her face, of course. She would have cried and we don't need more of that!
• Eric and Jessica continued their platonic, yet flirting, relationship. Oh, there was a massage! They touched! Oh, my!
• It's all quiet in the house now (finally) as I get this posted.
  

'Big Brother 8 - Live Feeds - Saturday 8/25 So Far

Lucky Jessica gets to entertain Jameka and Zach in the HOH. It's a fascinating conversation.
Jameka: "What's the R in RV stand for?"
Everyone: "I don't know."
Zach: "The V is for vehicle."
@@ They may as well have Amber in the room with them! (It stands for recreational ... recreational vehicle, RV.)

Here are the day's events since I posted the morning update:

• Eric kept telling Jessica he never cheated, etc., etc. He is really irked at Jen's mention about his girlfriend/relationship.
• He does indeed seem to be a bit smitten with Jessica. Is it all part of the game? I don't think so. He reminds me of a 14 year old boy in love.
• Eric and Jessica discussed various scenarios around the POV. They intend to eliminate one of their original nominees and aren't targetting Dick, Daniele, or Jameka.
• Amber and Jameka talked about how Eric is feeding Jessica ideas and it's his decisions, not hers, going into play.
• Amber and Jameka were also discussing number combinations with 1, 3, 5, and 7. I don't know what that was about, but it was important to them!
• Amber prayed and told God to "do what you think is best." Um, I may have to pray to remind him that her leaving the house as soon as possible is best!
• Jessica, Jameka, and Zach practiced memory questions for comps.
• There was a long feeds blockage, then WHAM -- Eric had won the Power of Veto! Apparently Zach was a very close second, but second doesn't cut it.
• The Veto Comp had them finding rats. (I can't see how that would be that difficult in the house this season, can you?)
• Jessica's happy because an Eric win means the nominations will remain the same -- Zach and Amber.
• Amber cried. Or pouted. Or cried while she pouted.
• Not knowing it vanished, Zach keeps talking Pirate Master. He's mentioned it before. Maybe he wants to be a pirate bunny.
• Zach is pleading his case to stay with anyone who will listen.
• Jameka says she'll be shocked no matter what Eric does with the veto.

Lots of napping and a rather subdued house today. It's raining there, the clothes washer is still on the fritz.

'Big Brother 8 - Live Feeds POV Winner 8/25

Eric won the Power of Veto. A full report will be posted later this evening!

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Into Saturday 8/25

Graphic artist Zoetawny had to use her "mad skillz" to create a second HOH graphic for Jessica! I think, in watching the feeds, Jessica is the one person least changed whan she's Head of House. With others, they seem to gloat (Dustin, Dick) or, in Daniele's case, freak out a bit. Jessica handles it well. I just wish her voice was a bit different. So, what's been happening inside that Big Brother House of Whispers and Wimps? Here's the skinny:

• Zach had a long talk to Jessica about his nomination. He's worried that he might be evicted, but approached the conversation at the angle that he isn't the target. He told Jessica he's not mad at her and understands that it was the most logical move for her to make.
• Zach really wants to win POV (remember, he hasn't won anything yet) and remove himself from the block. If he does, he wants Jessica to put Dick on the block and backdoor him.
• Zach also thinks that Dick and Daniele will play hard for POV if they're chosen because they want the nominations to remain the same.
• Jessica took all Zach was saying in and obviously took it under consideration. After all, she was nodding her head and saying "uh-huh" and "yeah." I'm sure Zach took that to mean she agrees with him.
• Jessica committed to nothing with him.
• Zach told Jessica that, no matter what happens, he'd vote as she wants him to.
  
• Eric is still upset about Jen's comment warning Jessica about his girlfriend. Perhaps that was the impetus for his nasty remark as she left. He's still stewing about it.
• Jameka worked her way right into the happy group o' houseguests while Amber was a bit somber and Zach was um, Zach-ish. (He always reminds me of a comic book geek who's smart but not ever "in with the in crowd." Not a bad thing, but it makes it hard for others to understand where he's coming from at times.)
• Evel Dick wants Zach to go. It's only fitting that Zach wants Dick to go, right?
• Amber cried.
• Eric wonders if he'll set a record if he doesn't get chosen to play for the veto again.
• As the HG feasted, Amber was subdued.
• Beer pong was played. I miss zuma-zuma.
• Jameka went on a crying streak -- alone. Well, her and God, that is. She cried, she prayed, she cried while praying.
• Daniele told Dick everyone hates him. He didn't think so, so they went through the list. It's everyone. He just laughed.
• Jameka tried to shake Jessica's faith in Eric. Jameka just doesn't trust him and thinks Jessica shouldn't trust him either.
• That didn't last long as Eric and Jessica are still up talking in the HOH room as I post this. She has the woobie and they're still BFF. (Best friends forever)
  

'Big Brother 8' Live Feeds - Nominations

As expected, Amber and Zach are on the block.

And Amber cried.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds - Friday So Far - 8/24

The nominations ceremony hasn't happened yet. I'll post a bulletin when I hear the news.

But here are the other happenings from inside that Big Brother House of Odd Ducks:

• BB woke them up early today -- 10 AM their time. Of course, that's only early if you've been up for most of the night.
• Daniele and Zach tried to convince Jameka that sushi can be good.
• Daniele thinks that Julie Chen's HOH questions have been uncomfortable and intrusive. (Um, this is a show with 24/7 live feeds, cameras, microphones. It's an intrusive show, darn it!)
• BB woke up the houseguests again just before 11:30.
• Jameka said the school where she works actually handcuffs misbehaving kids until their parents arrive. Yikes.
• Daniele told Jameka she didn't have to do chores while growing up -- her grandparents did everything. (Why am I not surprised?)
• There was a luxury comp -- timed grabbing and putting on of clothes (similar to ones in the past). The girls won.
• In all of the Eric/Jessica talks it seems the noms will be Amber and Zach. Jessica still isn't sure what she'll say at the ceremony.
• They think if they go after either Dick or Daniele, they (Jessica and Eric) will wind up on the block next week.
• No one is on slop this week and there was no food comp unless it was part of the luxury comp.
• Zach talked to Jessica and Eric. He admits that he thinks there's more to Eric than he's seeing and it worries him. He suggests an Amber/Dick nomination. He offers to be "with them" in their quest.
• Eric later mentioned to Jessica that Zach does this with every HOH -- plays up to them and promises to vote with them. That's why he doesn't get nominated.
• Daniele is worried that Zach is trying to shmooze Eric and Jessica -- and that they'll put them (D&D) on the block if they listen to him.
• Although there was a bit of nudity in the luxury comp as they tried on clothes, was it necessary for Amber to flash the Internet later putting on her new clothes?
• My eyes. My eyes.

That's it. Amber blinded me. I'll have to find a cure before the nominations ceremony.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Report Since the Live Show Into Friday

<--- Eric tells Jessica he thinks she wants him to be a Nancy Boy.

Whatever!

Here are the evening's happenings since the live show ended from that Big Brother House of "You Can Never Be Too Blonde and Win Too Many HOH" --

• Eric thinks Jen's speech was rude (the one in which they plead their case to stay). Well, I think his "speech" was rude when she left. He should have just let her go without his snide comment. If she was considering voting for him in the jury, he blew it right there.
• The house mood is upbeat, but I'm sure that will change with the pressure of another HG going home.
• Dick hopes Jen gets fired from her nanny job.
• Jessica asked Amber what Jen had wanted to tell her before she left. Amber said she wasn't going to say, but since she asked ... Jen wanted to warn Jessica not to trust Eric because he has a girlfriend named Cheryl. She doesn't want Jessica to be hurt.
• Jameka tried to give advice to Daniele about how to talk to her father. She says he's abrasive but means well -- he's always proud of her and loves her.
• Jameka says Evel Dick's intentions are good. (And where does the road paved with good intentions lead ...?)
• Daniele kept fussing about her father, nothing to do with the Jen incidents. She fussed in general about him and it was more of a woe-is-me fuss.
• Dick and Eric continued to trash talk Jen long after she was gone.
• Amongst Jessica's HOH goodies she got a "Booyah" shirt.
• Jameka had an Amber moment. She asked Daniele what boas (the kind you wear, not the snake) were and how you spell the word.
• The HG speculated that Kail might be the mayor of her town. Heh.
• Amber told Eric that Jen told her to tell Jessica not to trust him.
• There was a big In N Out burger feast during which Jameka overate and regretted it ... not!
• Eric said his girlfriend is long-distance.
• Jameka seems to be pushing Jessica (a bit) to put Evel Dick on the block.
• Jessica told Jameka she won't put her on the block.
• America's Player? -- Eric told Jessica that she should put Amber on the block. Amber and Zach. I'd say the Zach is a personal choice of his, Amber the voted one.

All are in bed as I post this, with Eric and Jessica just parting ways (for the dawn).

'Big Brother 8' - 8/23 Live Eviction Show Live-Blogged from the East Coast

The big show is starting here on the East Coast. I'll constantly be updating this entry as the show airs. Please forgive any typos or misspellings and have a good time in the comments area!

So far, recap!

Julie says it's been an exciting and explosive week. She has the explosive right. Now recapping the veto meeting in black in white.

Jameka is happy that Jen replaced Amber as it means a better chance she'll stay in the game.

Jenth Degree is on the treadmill when Dick comes in. He told her that talking about not needing the money has had a big effect. Jen tells him she's not bitter. Then she goes to Daniele in the HOH room. The JenBot actually sheds a tear. They really shortneed this. The conversation lasted about 20 minutes in real life.

Amber and Daniele take off for their trip.

Jen is talking to Jameka about not wanting to go to the sequester house. Jameka thinks she disrespected the integrity of the game.

Ah, Jen hides her won stuff in prep for destroying Dick's cigarettes. And, she's cooking! Turkey burgers! Jameka shouldn't play with her bare feet as she talks. Dick thinks Jen wants attention. AHA! The cigarettes! She has them, to the storage room! Jumping on them! She hid her clothes so Dick couldn't destroy them, yet is destroying four cartons of his cigarettes.

Dick looks for them, mentions the deal to be nice and wants to know where she hid them. Everyone else just stares. Dick found her stuff and hid it upstairs in the HOH room thinking she had just hidden his cigarettes.

Jen approaches Eric and others saying, "I'll now perform ... eating." Everyone tells her not to, but then dismiss her as a cheater. She's called to the Diary Room. She explains to us that she received a penalty vote -- an automatic vote to evict her tonight.

They show the slapping his cigarette bit. Ah, they're showing it all! Must see TV! He was wrong to blow the smoke, but she kept at him. She slapped at him, yet he actually was pretty restrained.

Amber and Daniele are heading to the Big Apple for their Power of Ten appearance. A private jet. Now Amber says NYC is so cool -- on the feeds she dissed it. They will play against each other, then one will go for the big bucks. Nick is going to be Daniele's "friend, family member" whatever and Amber's cousin will be hers. Nick's Mohawk has gron in a bit. Oh, geez ... they showed the beginning. Amber is a ham. @@

Julie is talking to them. And Amber is going on, but not crying! Julie tells Jen she's the first person in 8 years of the show to break food restriction and receive a penalty vote. Jen thought she made history by being there.

Now the streak of Eric's streaking, etc. We're into commercial and the voting should begin soon.

Julie's talking to Daniele in the HOH room. She tells Julie she owes a lot of credit to Eric and Jessica. She says she would love to be sitting next to her Dad in the final two ... because he has a lot of enemies. @@

Talk with the nominees -- Jen says, "I'm Jen" No, she's happy and honest and doesn't fit in here, happy to come here, happy to leave. Jameka is honored and happy to be in the house, nice speech.

Jen has one penalty vote for eviction.
Amber votes to evict Jen.
Dick votes to evict Jen.
America votes to evict Jen (Eric)
Zach votes to evict Jen
Jessica votes to evict Jen

Unanimous plus one, Jen is evicted from the Big Brother house... but a commercial first!

Jen gives a big smile. Amberr hugs, Eric says as happy as she is to be leaving, they're happier to see her go. Zach hugged her. Jen said something about Daniele having her back, but I didn't catch it all. Ah, Daniele just said she said, "I'm glad you had my back."

Julie tells Jen she's one of the most compelling HG ever. She listed various Jen-actions. Dick mean things -- is it how he feels or strategy? Jen said it wasn't appropriate either way. She mentions she'll be on the jury. Jameka says although bad first impression, changed. Eric calls her fun and unique and interesting. Dick tells her she should have been gone long ago. Jessica is apologetic. Zach tells her she's a great competitor. Daniele wishes she had left on a better note and apologizes. Amber, crying face, says she's not as bad as she thought she was -- show off the beautiful person inside to the whole world.

HOH Comp -- "Tanks for the Memories" -- Evicted HG will get revenge. They're on dunk tanks. Jen gets to dunk them if they're wrong with the answers.

Who did Joe say was most in need of a slop diet? Zach or Jameka? All right (Zach)
Spelling bee? Eric wrong -- (I missed the whole question)
Jameka or Dick -- Carol give Bible to -- All wrong.
Nick prefer to see streaking -- Eric or Zach -- Amber gone, Zach gone.
It's between Jessica and Dick.Jen got to dunk Dick.
Jessica is the new HOH.

America's Player -- Who do we want out of the house?
I really, really want Amber gone. It's gotten so even her voice on the live feeds grates at me.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds, TV Squad, and WhatNot

Okay, I lied about the whatnot. Is that a penalty nomination or is it a vote?

I have two articles over on TV Squad awaiting publishing online. One is about the Allison Grodner interview with EW.com and the other is on Amber and Daniele's appearance on The Power of Ten (with a photo even!) next Tuesday at 8 PM. The Grodner interview should be posted by about 7:30 ET. I don't know about the other one yet.

I'll be live-blogging the live eviction show as it airs here on the East Coast. Everyone's invited! It begins at 8 PM ET, be here or be square hepcats.

As for the house happenings today -- it's been relatively quiet (the quiet before the storm?). They have to clean house today as if it's not on television every single day. I never understand that, but it could just be me. Each eviction night they get a feast sent in by the show -- this week they're having In 'n Out burgers. Lots of primping was going on, none by Evel Dick. He fluffed his hair, though.It looks like a definite Jen Go Home tonight and they discussed various ways they would like to send her off. We'll have to see if any odd send-offs come to fruition.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Into Thursday Pre-Dawn

<--- Daniele smiles at Amber during their late night chat in the HOH room.

Sigh. Again, it's been on the uneventful side in the house. It goes from explosion and vote-switching to the doldrums day by day this season.

Here's what's happened since I last reported from inside that Big Brother House of Calm Winds:

• Zach and Evel Dick had a fight about Eric and his responsibility for saving Dick in the game. Evel ended up apologizing. Zach seemed okay with it, but I don't think he'll forget how quickly Dick can go off.
• Jen told Jameka she's never gone this long without a massage before.
• Jen found more of her stuff which had been hidden by Dick.
• The HG were on an extended indoor lockdown and don't know why. Nothing seemed to change in the yard upon their return.
• Jen continues to eat and now seems resigned to the fact that she'll be voted out on Thursday although still balking at going to the sequester house.
• Jameka and Jen both worked on packing some of their things in preparation for the show.
• Amber asked Zach and Evel Dick if they've masturbated in the house. Both said no. Amber and Zach said Dustin did four times. Dick finds it odd they know such things.
• Amber told Jameka she's depressed.
• Amber thanked God for letting her be on the game show and see her cousin. (Perhaps her cousin was the back-up person they use? Not sure of the terminology they use for the "helper" if the contestant gets stuck.)
• Dick is angry that Daniele made a deal with Amber. They fight ... again.
• Jameka is looking forward to getting off of slop Thursday night.
  
• Daniele hates being there. (A huge surprise, eh?)
• Jameka cried and prayed.
• Amber and Daniele talked forever (still as I post this) in the HOH room.
  
• Daniele reminisced about Nick ... way too much, methinks.

Sneak Peek: TBS - 'World's Funniest Commercials'

My friendly FedEx guy knocked on my door today and gave me a screener for the upcoming World's Funniest Commercials on TBS. Cool. The BB feeds are kind of blah and depressing today; I needed to smile!

Set to air Thursday, August 30, and once again hosted by Kevin Nealon, this show is always fun! Last year it came to us from Times Square in New York City, this year it's Paris. Oui, you heard me, Paris! Kevin's wife, Susan Yeagley co-hosts the show.

With TV commercials from all over the world, and the funniest ones to boot, this show is a keeper with me. One of the things I enjoy the most about it is the plethora of commercials I've never before seen -- both the foreign and regional US ones (outside of my region).

"Nothing beats a sunset and a ginger lime..." Oh, my!

For me, funny ad campaigns are good ad campaigns. If a commercial is boring, I don't pay attention. Make me laugh and I'll always remember your product.

Remember -- Thursday, 8/30 at 9 PM (after BB!), on TBS. Be there.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds Report - Wed. 8/22 So Far

Today has been on the uneventful side for the most part.









The biggest "excitement" for the houseguests was the time spent with the HOH digital camera. Above you see Zach and Jessica with glass bowls on their heads. They also took photos of the ants in the kitchen.

A thrill a minute, eh?

Jen ate and ate some more.

All of the others either all but pretended she doesn't exist or made snide comments to/about her. They've picked up with the "she cheats and doesn't follow the rules" and are running with it.

Daniele made Dick remove Jen's bags of stuff from the HOH room and told Jen they weren't in the room any longer.

Daniele went on about not knowing what to write in her HOH diary entry this time because she said it all the last time.

A few folks tired to pry information from Amber about the NYC trip, but Amber was pretty impressive in not revealing anything. I'm shocked. She didn't even cry about it.

Jen found her clothes, at least most of them. Dick didn't destroy them, just hid them from her. He told her she'd get the rest back five minutes before the live show. Her bikini top managed to come unclasped in the kitchen. Eep. Was it divine intervention?

While Jen was in the DR, Dick grabbed the final bag of her clothes from the HOH room and hid it in the tall dresser.

While taking pictures, Zach had a pink boa and Eric wore Dustin's crown. Amber was mad that they used the crown. @@

Jen fussed some more about not wanting to go to sequester as it takes her away from her life. (What does being on the show do? Take her away from her life and allow her to be on TV, eh?) Zach tried to tell her that being on the jury is as important as being in the game. No go. She don't want to go!

They have an indoor lockdown going on as I get this posted. Dick joked it was because a banner plane flew by which read "Jen save Jen."

All in all, not a day for the record books in the house. And, there's no sign of Amber or Daniele on The Power of Ten as I post this. I will post an announcement if they appear, but I think it's going to be next week. I could be wrong, of course!

UPDATE: I wasn't paying strict attention, but I believe they just said two Big Brother contestants will compete on the show next Tuesday.

'Survivor 15: China' - My First Impressions on the Castaways - Part One

I'll be blogging review/recaps of the new Survivor season over on TV Squad this year, but I want to let you in on the cast members and, more importantly, my impressions and predictions for each of them right here! Since there are sixteen of them, I'll be posting on just a few at a time until I finish. I'm going alphabetically by first name from the official website information. Ready?

First up is Aaron. Now, I watched his video on the CBS site and he turned me off right away by mentioning how hunky he is. But I'll try to forget that as I read about him on his bio page.

Well, at least he doesn't say how "hunky" he is on the bio page! He likes to surf and cook. In addition to being a surfing instructor, he manages a tapas restaurant and bartends. That sounds typical for a reality show contestant, doesn't it?

He's a Fruity Pebbles fan and has varied tastes in music and foods. He doesn't mention Survivor in his favorite shows list, but mentions Top Chef a few times on the page.

He thinks his strengths are his cooking knowledge and how to make edible things tasty, plus he thinks he's witty and fun (in addition to saying he'll be a show hunk in the video). A weakness? Well, he just might be too nice.

Oh, my.I'm just not getting good vibes from Aaron. No, I'm not wincing like I did when I read "Boston" James' page last season, but I think he might be a bit too full of himself. I could be reading him totally wrong, but that's my first impression. Physically, he looks like a contender.

Next we have Amanda. While she's into outdoors activities, she's also been modeling since she was sixteen and is leaning towards the show biz aspect, I think.

Amanda was Miss Montana USA in 2005 and Miss Earth in 2006. Me? I didn't even know there was a Miss Earth contest. Did it have mud wrestling? That would be earthy indeed! (I know. I'm bad. I'm just so not into beauty pageants.)

But then there's the physical aspects to this young woman. On paper (er, computer monitor), she's looking very good. She's into rock-climbing, hiking, all kinds of woodsy-related outdoor activities.

She thinks she's motivated, competitive, and determined. And, most important, she never leaves home without her cowboy boots. In looking at her favorites list, I see she lists Survivor first amongst her favorite shows. She's a Grape-Nuts cereal fan. (I always do my own psychological profile based on their favorite cereals, y'see.) That tells me she has common sense and is health-conscious, but doesn't go overboard.

I didn't watch her video yet, but I think she could very well be a strong female in the game. I predict at least the final half, probably further, for Amanda.

Okay, and then we have Ashley, the wrestler. This could be an interesting group of very physically strong women if we keep up the trend started by Ashley and Amanda.

Reading through her bio page, it looks like a lot of name-dropping going on. I'm really not sure on a personal level if admitting you were on Danny Bonaduce's show is a good thing at all.

She went to the same college as I did (SUNY), but it doesn't list the location. Let's see if she can do the SUNY system proud. I wasn't too keen on the last Survivor contestant who went to my location of the school -- Sean Rector from the Marquesas season.

Ashley thinks she's spunky, quirky, optimistic, happy, resourceful, creative, adaptive, and relentless. (Yikes, sounds like Jen of BB8 describing herself.) From her favorites, I see Survivor made her show list after two wrestling things, 24 and South Park, but at least it's there. Her favorite cereal is Kashi. Nothing against Kashi, but it tells me she's power hungry for power cereal and will most likely snub her nose at Fruity Pebbles eaters.

Her chances? Hmm ... physically, she looks good. But something tells me she may rub folks the wrong way. I haven't watched her video, so I could be totally off base, but there's something there. I predict mid-pack or less for her.

Do you have any predictions for these three?

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds and Stuff - 8/22

This is the excitement from inside the house so far today -- an interesting camera angle capturing Jen doing laps in the pool as reflected in a window by the moose. I think she must be going for the 440 laps make a mile bit.

Dick is sitting on the couch in the yard smoking and spitting. All of the others are still asleep.

Over on TV Squad, I have a new feeds update post going on a bit more about last night, but the houseguests haven't given me any new fodder for today.

Yet.

TV Squad Article on Dustin's Exit Interview

I have an article up about Dustin's exit interview with the TV Tattler up over on TV Squad.

Check it out, if you'd be so kind! :-)

Google/Blogger Outage

And, I'm baaack! The entire Google/Blogger/Blogspot server went down for a few hours, but it's returned. Sorry, folks. It was system-wide and beyond my control. But, no fear. The houseguests are still sleeping and my last post is still the latest news.

'Big Brother 8' - Live Feeds - Overnight Into Wed. 8/22

Zoetawny had fun with Jen's eating spree, didn't she? Although there have been no more groundshaking spats in the house, Daniele and Amber returned from their trip. Amber says that Drew Carey is the best boyfriend ever! Okay, I'm just giving you a spool of lies with that last sentence. Here's the skinny on the latest from that Big Brother House of Game Show Contestants, Bingers and Whingers:

• Just to clear up from an earlier post -- when they all (but Jen) sat down to spaghetti dinner made by Eric, Jameka was with them but she didn't eat. Neither did Zach. I missed why Zach didn't eat, but he tends to watch his calorie intake and times he eats meals. He won't eat after a certain hour. Keep in mind, this is a guy who lost nearly 70 pounds shortly before going on the show. It could have been a solidarity move with Jameka, I suppose. He's been making game moves on her as of late.
• Eric wedged Jen's door shut so she was trapped in the bedroom, but BB yelled at him so he un-wedged it.
• Zach trapped Dick in the storeroom in the same manner, but that was in fun.
• Everyone is pretty much acting like Jen doesn't exist when she enters a room.
• Zach asked Evel Dick about Eric and Jessica. Dick told him they're all on the same page -- final five.
• Amber and Daniele returned about midnight Big Brother time (3 am here). They said they were only allowed to say they went to New York City but BB said they couldn't say why. (I just hope now that Amber's gone from the area it will stop raining today! It's been raining since she came this way.)
• I see the sun coming out. See! A dark cloud follows Amber!
• About the only news they seemed to pick up on outside the house was that Amber heard Michael Vick did something, but she didn't know what. (Dog-fighting arrest.)
• The others filled Amber and Daniele in on all the excitement since they've been gone.
• Jen claims she destroyed the cigarettes because she hates smokers and she's never even seen BB before -- they begged her to be on the show. (Now, we know there's a ChillTown connection. I'll buy that she hates smoking, but I think she's studied the game.)
• There was a lot of bickering back and forth between Jen and Eric since they acknowledged she exists in the Amber/Daniele return.
• Dick claims that BB said, "Thank you for being the bigger person." -- in regard to her destroying his property (cartons of cigarettes).
• Amber told Jen that it was very rude of her to do what she did. She asked how spoiled is she? Hmmm... Amber didn't cry over the demise of the cigarettes! She was more shocked that Jen destroyed property that wasn't hers.
• Meanwhile, it's dawning on Jameka that she's golden this week. With Jen acting out, it's certain that all will turn against her and she (Jameka) should sail through this week.
• Jen claims that she thought everyone was ignoring her and that led to her flipping out like she did. Yesterday she blamed the slop diet for flipping out.
• Jen told Eric and Jessica that Dick and Daniele wanted to make a deal with her, but she wouldn't do it.
• Before a quick block of the feeds Daniele told Dick that she heard the show is doing a good job of portraying people as they are. (Of course, that could have been a handler saying something to appease her, but...!)
• Jen is still fussing that she doesn't want to be in sequester -- she'd miss all the things happening in the house and she doesn't want to sit on a beach in Mexico. (I read that to mean, "I won't be on TV all the time.")
• Jen said she didn't eat just to hurt Jameka and really didn't look at it that way.
• Jen still thinks they "can't make her" go to sequester if she doesn't want to go.
  
• She doesn't know why she's even in the show because she has the best life anyone can have. @@
• Jen thinks that Amber, Jameka and herself are the most honest people in the game. (I would go for Jameka perhaps out of that bunch. The other two have both been sketchy. I'd put Zach in the honesty pool before Jen or Amber. But with Amber, she's bad at being shady.)
• Jen told Amber that Dick said they were only going to keep Jameka until the week before she can compete for HOH again.
• It looks like America voted to get Jen out of the house. Eric told Jameka she has his vote and doesn't seem to be working on Dick and Company to oust her.
• In talking about Jen being a nanny, Eric said he'd rather leave his kids home alone (if he had kids).
• Daniele told Dick to get Jen's clothes and belongings out of the HOH room. She wants no part of "this."
• Daniele seems very pleased for a change. The trip made her a happier person ... for a bit, at least.
• Dick told her he'd take Jen's stuff out in the morning and hide it in the backyard.
• Dick told Daniele that they (BB) changed Jen's penalty due to their plan to evict Jameka this week when they thought Jen would be a penalty nom. Instead the show gave her an automatic penalty vote.
• Jameka and Amber don't think they're "floating."
• Amber thinks that Jessica and Daniele are in an alliance because Daniele told her she would have liked to go on the trip with Jessica. (Um, maybe because Jessica is more fun than Amber? Dang, if I were on the trip, Amber would be the last person I'd choose to accompany me!)
• Amber had a long, long talk with Jameka -- she kept going on about when she wins HOH. She'd put up Eric and Jessica and, if veto used, Dick out. Or Daniele out depending on the minute she's talking.
• Dick and Daniele had another "I'm not listening to you" whine whine tiff. Of course, Dick was the "I'm only trying to communicate with you and you shut me out" broken record.
• Amber and Jameka are very leery of Eric. They think he's been pumping them for information -- asking if they made any deals with Daniele.

All are sleeping as I post this. I'm very surprised that Daniele and Amber seem to be actually keeping the secret of what they did on their trip. They must not have won the big bucks, eh?

And the sun is indeed out here now that Amber has left the area. Good.

'Big Brother 8' Live Feeds News or Lack There Of

Since I last posted feed news, not much has been happening. Jen apparently will receive one penalty vote although the others think the punishment should be more as she's been flaunting her eating. Due to the fact that Jameka is following her slop regimen, it seems more of a violation.

She will not receive a penalty nomination. Even Dick admits that's probably right as Amber would have been blindslided and it wasn't fair to Jameka either -- the plan to 1, 2, 3 them out of the house. He's now saying that Jen will leave 6-0 this week.

Jen vanished from the feeds long ago. Sleeping, maybe? The others all ate and are hanging around together, small talk.

They still have no idea where Amber and Daniele went and the girls haven't returned yet.

About the only real game talk was that Zach told Jameka he promises her his vote to stay (which is actually a vote for Jen to leave) because he hates cheaters. He's been calling Jen a cheater at every opportunity.

'Big Brother 8' - Aug. 21 Show Live-Blogged from the East Coast

Welcome! Grab a bowl of slop and a glass of iced tea and make yourself at home! The show is about to begin here on the East Coast.

This entry will constantly be updated with the show happenings as they air here in the NYC area. Please forgive any typos or misspellings and share your thoughts in the comments area. Refresh the page to get the latest.

We be in recap mode now. In the background I have America's Got Talent finale on. I hope to catch the eliminations there and will let you know about them and the winner, too. Unless I miss it, of course. I'm recording it.

Daniele has ticked off both Amber and Jameka. Once again, Amber thinks she's a "good person."

On AGT -- that young girl just got eliminated. Not Butterscotch, the country and western one.

Jen is talking to Jessica. She's pumping for information, but Jessica is playing dumb. Eric and Jessica are messing around. Not in a really adult manner, mind you. Zach likes to torment Eric when he's with her.

Amber tells Jameka she "can't with" jeesica because she's sneaky. Amber thinks she's such a big threat in the game and a target. "I had a vision."

Amber cries. She feels it, she sees it. Both Jameka and her will be in the final two! Hallelujah! (Which I probably spelled wrong.) No more crying she vows through her tears!

Eric is finding his Woobie now. He's cracking up over it. He's thrilled that "we" chose Jessica. Very sweet.

On AGT, Butterscotch was just eliminated.

Daniele and Zach are talking, he's sick of Eric and her dad. Daniele complains that Jen complains and Amber and Jameka mope around. What does Daniele think she does? They turn to Jen, Zach calls her a loose cannon. BTW - the talk turns to Jen, she isn't there. Zach tells us he's a force to be reckoned with.

Veto player pick -- special competition, two finalists will be rewarded with a top-secret trip out of the house. Daniele picks Houseguest's Choice -- Dick. Amber bitterly picks Jessica. Jameka picks Zach. Jen says it double sucks that she didn't get to play. Eric hosts.

Oh, people want that trip!

Time for the comp -- motorcycles in place they each get to sit on. A huge speedometer. The questions are based on the CBS.com polls.

Kail great politician? 19% -- Dick gets eliminated with 78%.
Life in the BB house easy? 14% -- Zach eliminated with his 62%.
Dustin a better boyfriend than Joe? 47% -- Jessica is eliminated.
Rather a beer with Nick than Mike? 70% -- Jameka out with 87%.
Amber is crying in the comp because Jameka got eliminated. Once again she puts everyone ahead of herself -- Amber thinks of herself.
Zach sexiest bunny of all? 35% -- Daniele wins POV with her 46%

Jen is happy because she prefers noms stay the same. Right. Amber and Jameka cry and hug. Amber is literally shaking.

And Amber cried. Did I mention that?

Make her STOP.

Daniele is telling Dick that she wants to make a deal with Amber for next week. Of course, we know that both Daniele and Dick wanted to backdoor Jen anyway, so this gives them an edge.

Now Amber is saying her vision was so real and can't believe it didn't come true. Amber suggests she make a deal with Daniele and bounces the idea off of Jameka.

Daniele and Amber go tothe HOH to avoid the herd. Amber first asks, then Daniele tells her she'd take her off for her next HOH. They've edited in a dinging noise after each promise Amber made after Jameka warned her not to promise too much. Heh. Of course, Daniele took it.

Eric and Dick talk, proud of their alliance and how it paid off. Dick still wants them as final four -- Dick, Daniele, Eric, Jessica. Eric would rather see Zach up than Jen, but is willing to compromise.

The Veto Meeting -- Jameka was pleasant, will respect her decision. Amber cries, tries not to cry. Daniele gives a speech about strong competitiors in the game. On a strategic level, saves Amber. Daniele nominates Jen... one of the biggest competitors in the house and (paraphrasing) some of us are here to win the money.

Daniele vows to us Jen will go home. Jameka is worried. Jen is confident she'll be here next week.

Daniele and Amber find out they're going to board a jet to NYC -- they're going to be contestants on The Power of Ten.

Uh-oh. I wondered why we had such teary, er... rainy weather today -- Amber's HERE.

Ack.

YES! TERRY FATOR WON AMERICA'S GOT TALENT! HE'S MY FAVORITE! HE'S AMAZING!

Now that I got that out of my system ... America's Player. Who does Eric work to evict?