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Around the explosive, political and musically transitional period of the late ’60s, America, Jamaica and England were affected by a new production technique that first reared its head in Jamaican studios. Special effects units like delays, echoes, and reverbs had gained popularity through producers like Osbourne (King Tubby) Ruddock, who owned a sound system and cut acetates at Duke Reid’s Treasure Isle Studio. By accidentally leaving out parts of the vocal mix to a song, Ruddock stumbled upon a new formula that offered more options for performing studio magic. He took this new mix with him to a dance, and played the recognizable version first. Then he played his ‘accident,’ and the dub mix was born. Not only did he blow the people away that night; he ran back into the studio to do it again.

In the 1970s when a single was released, it was often answered by another record that gave the second artists’ commentary on the first record. Sometimes, many spin-off versions came out of this technique, known as toasting. This form of rapping caught on later in the United States via the concrete jungles of New York City. On many Rap mixtapes and CDs, artists would modify toasting by ‘dissing’ each other when they had beef among themselves. Though some of the product was hard to find, fans ate up the resulting, often-exclusive releases anyway. Toasting utilized catch-phrases that incorporated the sharp Jamaican dialect–-it added a rhythmically expressive, deep melodic quality to Reggae music. When many of my fellow Jamaicans speak, their accents often make them sound like the music: quite rhythmic, quite expressive, quite melodious, quite harmonic, and quite textural. Some popular Jamaican phrases follow:

Babylon - hard living, trouble My yute - homeboy
Bwoyfren’ - boyfriend N’yam - eat food
Cool runnin’s - it’s all good ‘Ole on a likkle - wait just a minute
Cho′ - never mind Oonu - you all
Diy’yah - over here Pickney - children
Frock - a dress Redi dress - showing out
Is fi’ mi - it’s mine Roll tide - keep it moving
Good good - that’s fine Selectah - a DJ
Gweh - get out of my face S’mody - somebody

Gwine - going Soccamibassa - dressed poorly
Gyalfren’ - girlfriend Tegereg - troublesome; a P.I.T.A.
Leggo beas′ - wild, unruly Tump you - hit you
Maahgah - skinny Whe’ mek? - why?

Dialects of Jamaican ‘patois’ can be spoken fast, slow, or moderately. Some of the diction is easier to understand than others because it may depend upon which region of Jamaica one is from. Some people may have emotional inflections in their speech patterns, while others may have musical ones. One thing for sure is that unless you can’t hear, you will definitely know it when a person from the islands is talking or singing…‘yah, mon.’ But even without vocals, this underground Dub music of Jamaica was still shaping itself into a more defined entity. By 1973, ‘King Tubby’ Ruddock was experimenting with instrumental versions of songs by manipulating sounds on the tracks. His equipment contained a disc-cutter, mixing console, tape machines and effects units. He worked with the top producers on the island to compose and release the dub album “Blackboard Jungle.”

Instrumental versions of songs soon showed up on the B-sides of singles, called ‘dub mixes.’ Whether tracks were abruptly punched-in with buttons or smoothly faded-in with the sliding fader, they were still given a heavy dose of sound effects. In some cases, interesting effects were created by running a looped tape over the heads of a tape machine. To facilitate this method, a section of the tape was identified for ‘surgery’ or ‘splicing.’ Splicing occurs by putting the section of tape on a ‘chopping block’ with vertical and diagonal grooves etched into it. The grooves guided a razor blade as it sliced the tape at the beginning and end of the section to be cut. The two ends of the isolated tape were then taped together and run through the tape rollers, which passed the tape over the three heads (erase, record and playback) in a repeated, looped manner.

The playback head picked up the signal and played it till the ‘stop’ button was depressed. If the splice wasn’t precise, this procedure could become tedious and time-consuming. This method may not have caught on in the fast-paced world of ‘put it together quick’ Rap music, but sampling sure did. Electronically-made sounds and sampling went on to become worldwide phenomena. Like tape looping, Jamaicans used sampling to create new music such as Dancehall Reggae. You’ll want to see the chapter “What Makes Music” in the forthcoming “Musicology 102” for more on sampling. If the info in that chapter tweaks your interest, we’ll be covering more studio techniques that you may find interesting in the sequel to that book, “Musicology 103.”

Dub remixes were released as a standard configuration by the mid ’70s, and DJ’s constantly played them in the clubs. The open relationship between the United States and Jamaica allowed new styles and trends to drift between the two cultures. By the end of the decade, Rap music made its introduction by creatively looping drum and bass lines with a rhythmic (non-melodic) vocal track and new sounds. Rap brought showmanship to a new level by using the techniques of Jamaican Dancehalls and sound systems, courtesy of innovative DJs like Kool Herc. In case you may have forgotten, we opened up the book chapter by talking about the DJ who brought thunder to the clubs. ‘Big ups’ to these unsung heroes–-they changed the era’s musical protocol by breaking down music and remixing it. In America, R&B, Funk, Jazz and Dance music were also broken down and rebuilt; adding anticipation, excitement and exhilaration to physical activity (dancing) and other types of live performances.

Dub music was often fused together in a live setting (people are around), with the mixing board serving as the action centerpiece, as if it were a musical instrument. In the hands of an experienced, partially or totally insane sound engineer or producer, this meant hit records. Besides tweaking the sound processing devices to get a desired or unexpected effect, other studio tricks were also employed. Some techniques include the use of gunshots, screams, sirens, whistles, test tones, mechanical sounds; even physically striking a reverb unit to get a new sound. Therein lays the answer to the exclusivity factor, which was taken very seriously in Jamaican music. Since no one else had the sounds, no one else could play them. To quote pioneering rapper Rakim (of Eric B & Rakim), “I said it before.”

By the late ’70s, the Imprint label, headed up by top Dub engineer Lloyd James (also known as ‘Prince Jammy’), stepped into the limelight to become one of the leading forces in this new wave of music coming from Jamaica. In the meantime, concerts by Jamaican artists were supported by a core group of Blacks and Whites in England and in the United States. The support of British and American recording artists encouraged a curious fan base to listen closer to Reggae. Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton and The Police made hits that hinted at Reggae, while Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder gave their own convincing perspectives. Just take a good listen to groups like The Eagles (“Hotel California”) and Steely Dan (“Hey Nineteen”) as you dig through hordes of great music tracks to decipher what they and so many others have created during their fabulous careers. More tactical support was on the way when the new Dancehall genre came out of Jamaica. During the late ‘80s to early ’90s, it filtered into the Rap/Hip-Hop culture, by way of transplanted Jamaicans and inner-city Big Apple youth who were already thinking “outside the box.”

The loss of Jamaica’s musical prophet Bob Marley in 1981 shook the shores of Jamaica and chain-reacted to a worldwide level. Before things improved, things got worse and Jamaica’s economics took a nosedive. Political turmoil ran rampant between the Jamaican Labor Party (JLP), and the People’s National Party (PNP). Jamaican posses became murderously volatile at home as well as in the States and in the U.K. Well-known activists (including musicians and others) were getting viciously gunned down, left and right. The per-capita statistics were astounding. Something had to give; there was too much trouble popping off on this nearly 150 mile-long island starving for ongoing attention, out in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. Through multiple Prime Minister hand-offs over the years, the bureaucracy of Jamaica (liberated in a year that holds strong significance to me), has passed among seven pairs of hands:

1962 – 1967 Alexander Bustamante (JLP)

1967 Donald Sangster (JLP)

1967 – 1972 Hugh Shearer (JLP)

1972 – 1980 Michael Manley (PNP)

1980 – 1989 Edward Seaga (JLP)

1989 – 1992 Michael Manley (PNP)

1992 – 2006 P.J. Patterson (PNP)

2006 – Present P.S.-Miller (PNP)

Notice anything interesting? It’s been said that there’s no constant like change: for the first time in history, Jamaica handed off its male-dominated political reigns to another original–-the first female Jamaican Prime Minister, in March of 2006. The PNP’s own Portia Simpson-Miller succeeded another PNP member, Prime Minister Percival James Patterson.

Over in England, Reggae and Dub artists made successful entrances into the music industry’s battle arena by slicing and dicing the studio mix exclusively for the club. By the 90s, the eminent sub-division of Dub music emerged not only from Jamaica, but also the U.K. and U.S. with styles like ‘Drum & Bass,’ ‘Jungle,’ ‘Trip-Hop’ and ‘Techno.’ International groups from other genres like The Cure, Depeche Mode, Garbage, Living Colour, Nine Inch Nails, and dozens of rappers, producers and DJs tested Dub in their tracks. Dub influences are often heard in recordings with electronic drums, bass, keyboards, strings, and horns in Reggae styles like Dancehall. A popular sound was found in an early form of Reggaeton called Dancehall Reggaespanol, or Spanish Dancehall. This style of music appealed more to people of the Hispanic/Latino societies in Cuba, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and abroad. Spanish Reggae featured Reggae music with Spanish lyrics and catchy horn arrangements. Traditional Latin music may often feature the guitar in songs.

Many people may not realize it, but the Panama Canal was built not only by local Panamanians, but also Jamaicans and other immigrants from around the world in search of economic relief. It didn’t take long for the music industry to notice there were many Black Latinos in places like those listed above, and in South America. By 1991, Columbia Records acknowledged Dancehall Reggaespanol, as it appealed to a large, multi-cultural fan base. Some acts:

Arzu
Cocoa Tea
Cutty Ranks
El General
Fab 5
Killer Ranks
La Diva
Lisa M.
Little Lenny
Marcony
Nando Boom
Nardo Ranks
Ninjaman
Sugar Minott
Supercat
Rude Girl
(La Atrevida)

INTERESTING POINTS:

• Featured artist Lisa M is from Puerto Rico; not only is she making songs like ones on this CD, but she also creates music in other styles such as Merengue. Merengue is popular throughout the Caribbean islands, and in South America. While we’re pointing out well-known Merengue hot spots, let’s not forget the site of the famous, international canal–-Central America’s Panama, home of red gold. Lisa M and the remaining “Dancehall Reggaespanol” cast were on the forefront of something that wouldn′t crest until after the new millennium arrived.

• Now going by the name of Reggaeton music, Latin Dancehall music incorporates Spanish lyrics as the driving force; moving forward in its popularity, a whole new generation of music appreciators will be pleasantly surprised to hear this exciting music form: some of them, for the first time. Godspeed, children.

• You may have noticed the name “Ranks” attached to Cutty, Killer, and Nardo. Trust me - these guys are not brothers by blood. In fact, many Dancehall artists used “Ranks” in their stage names. One of the biggest was “Shabba.” He got signed to Epic Records around the time Columbia Records signed another hot Jamaican artist known as Supercat. Since I worked for Sony Music (the distributor of Epic), I marketed and promoted Shabba Ranks’ Epic releases.

• Supercat (also known as Don Dada), was already doing his thing on a ‘super’ level when he got signed to a Columbia Records contract during the late ‘80s. He was also one of the first-round draft picks when the label began their Dancehall/Reggae signing spree. In keeping ahead of the violins, let me point out that he was another act I marketed at Sony Music, along with Columbia’s “Dancehall Reggaespanol” compilation CD. Considered a ‘West Indian Godfather’ in ‘the biz,’ Supercat is given love in Damian Marley’s song with the somewhat infamous Bobby Brown, called “Beautiful.” That’s another hit song on Marley’s “Welcome To Jamrock” CD. Trust that! Supercat still has his mojo too, with his name mentioned twice each time it comes up throughout the song. “Check it!”

A valedictorian and contributing author to Bernard Percy’s books during elementary school, L.A. finished high school in Brooklyn, then went to L.A.City College. He graduated in 1987 from Georgia State University in Atlanta. An internship led to 10 years with CBS Records/Sony Music, where L.A. worked with almost every act, implemented sales/marketing campaigns, received numerous gold/platinum albums, awards, and traveled throughout the U.S., Canada and Jamaica to events.

As a recording studio owner, AV technician and manager for a global audiovisual company (TAVS), L.A. owns MKM Multimedia Works. In 2001 he executive-produced the Million Mom March’s Atlanta Artists Against Gun Violence compilation CD, featuring top Atlanta acts. In 2002, L.A. secured a commercial with The GAP for Arrested Development’s Baba Oje. L.A. now initiates his ‘6 books in 5 years’ plan.

With a vision of where he’s going, L.A. works towards a goal. A quote that L.A. picked up from mentor/author/educator BernardPercy.com is: “Everything turns out right in the end - if it isn’t right, it isn’t the end.”

Time and time again we stroll around malls, and shopping centers looking at clothing, jewelry, electronics, and perhaps peeking through the window of an Art Gallery.

Sometime we just look through the window, gazing inside, other times we go in. We often admire the works of art, but the prices do not seem to fit into our budget the price seems to blend and fade into the art as if we do not want to see it. If you really want to get the masterpiece go ahead, speak to the owner or manager and see if you can pay monthly (sometimes it makes bringing it home even more exciting) and of course, see if they can lower the price a little.

Try to stretch the payments out over a year, stores will do whatever it takes to make the sale. But, if you are like most of us, another way to get the masterpiece at a better price is by doing your homework… get the artists name, go online, a bookstore or to the library to see if you can buy directly from the artist.

And finally, if it a painting you desire, see if you can get a poster of the artwork and have a Craft Store put a glaze on it, sometimes called gel but different craft stores call it different names. It will actually look like a painted picture to most of your guests and best of all “you”. So reach for the “painted sky, stars, flowers, and moon”.

Had J.K. Rowling not put pen to paper and created her unfathomably famous series of children’s books, “Harry Potter”, the world may have had to wait a lot longer for the likes of British actress Emma Watson to triumphantly emerge.

In a somewhat unprecedented move the leading female role of Hermione Granger, one of Potter’s closest friends in the Harry Potter series, was given to Emma. Why unprecedented you ask? Because prior to her fantastically lucky break, young Miss Watson had never so much as acted a day in her life on the big screen. Her acting credentials listed only school plays. However, this is not to say that she lacked talent, on the contrary, those who saw her school stage roles instantly noticed that she had a particular flare for the craft.

At a mere fifteen years of age this talented, freckle faced teen actress already has four Harry Potter movies under her cape, staring in each as the same Potter pal role of Hermione Granger. This character sees her as the female comrade to an almost exclusively cast of male leads. At the tender age of ten Watson’s convincing, endearing role as somewhat stuck up, perfect student Granger in the first Potter movie, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”, had fans hooked. Over night she became the most searched for Potter cast member on the Internet.

Though her acting career has thus far extended only into the realm of Harry Potter sorcery and humongous box office sales, Watson has an unmistakable talent that will likely see her through when the days of Harry Potter films eventually come to an end. Her acting ability is so bang on that it has earned her the nickname of “One Take Watson”.

In a world of fluffy, pop star-like personas and less than intellectual characters brunette-headed Watson is a refreshing change from the bubble gum-ness that has beseeched the majority of young female actors. Her strong-willed and charming personality only add to her movie appeal and fans can’t seem to get enough of this charismatic fifteen year old.

Hopping the pond, Emma has appeared on a racket of North American late night TV and talk shows; notably her first talk show appearance in 2002 on the long running, phenomenally successful Oprah Winfrey show. Others include Jay Leno in 2002 and Live with Regis & Kelly in 2004. When not dabbling in onscreen witchery and magic Watson goes to the British all-girls school Headington where she primarily studies history, English and art. In her down time Watson’s second love comes out, sports. Her favourites include tennis, rounders and hockey.

Though the world has only known of Emma for four short years, she has created a lasting onscreen character that is recognized by Potter fans – both young and old alike – the world over. Watson says that she wants to branch out and try a variety of roles, and in 2006 fans will be able to see Emma in her first non-Potter role to date. Scheduled to be released within a year the film “Airborn” will see Watson playing Kate de Vries, in an adventurous dramatic tale of cruise ships, pirates and deserted islands. Rather a broomstick’s length away from Hogwarts for this ambitious British actress.

Jessica Cander is a full time freelance writer who loves to stay on top of up-to-the-minute entertainment trends, such as rising stars answers.com/topic/emma-watson Emma Watson and answers.com/topic/hilary-duff Hilary Duff. For the latest information, gossip and hot facts, Jessica recommends Answers.com .

We’ve already established that by offering a simple route to fixing whatever ails your target, you can begin the process of establishing yourself as an expert. A side-benefit is that using the first, important concept helps deflect any questions your audience may have about your actual credentials. Still, there’s more work to be done. Nine more simple concepts to work with, to be exact.

The way it seems to work best for the most successful experts I’ve seen, is to get established first, and then build the body of work that supports it later. This is especially true in the self-help field. With that, the bottom line is, no one else really gives a damn, therefore, we have no choice but to help ourselves. And we all know the best way to do that is to pay other people to tell us how.

Even though this is a gem of information, I will not list it as one of the Ten Concepts. Consider it a bonus.

Your targets need to Buy-in to what you are offering. If you present them with the Ten Simple Concepts, they gravitate towards your content before they really get curious about who you are, which, let’s face it, could considerably screw up your credibility.

But, even though it’s Number Two on the Ten Concepts list, a subliminal thing plays a very important role in getting the person to begin to accept you as the expert. From the very get-go, your target must not stumble on anything you provide in your first offering. You have to get them to read your first article on the Ten Simple Concepts, and to do that, you must have a believable name that supports your expertise.

If the name of the author does not sound consistent with the content of the information offered, the reader will question the source. You have to make sure that the name ascribed to the piece makes sense and that no one will go looking for more information about you until after you’ve hooked him. I use the masculine here because everyone knows guys get easily hooked.

Let me ask you a question: When you read the title of this article, did you question my credentials?

Of course not, for not only did the article offer what you need — cheap, simple advice written by a man who sounds like he knows what he’s talking about. Drew Kittinger must be an expert because, because…well, Kaplinger, Kissinger, even Derringer and Erlinger have these “tones” that reek of some sort of knowingness.

Is that my name? What do you think? If I were to put my real name on this piece, you’d do an internet search only to find my life is so full of other things how could I possibly be an expert on being one thing, an expert?

I’m an expert by virtue of my failures. I don’t have the time to explain all that because I’m much too busy explaining how you can be an expert. And do you think for one second I’m going to say “Fail a lot!”? If I did, you’d check out my name on the internet, see I’ve failed a lot, and then probably surmise that when it comes to accepting the advice of an expert, you’d prefer someone successful.

In order for me to get your attention, I have to come across as if I know what I’m talking about, and if you spend one iota of time wondering about my name, I’ve lost you

So choose your name carefully. Remember, it’s not about picking the right name, it’s about picking a name that sounds consistent with what you’re offering so people won’t spend a minute wondering. There are some broad strokes you can follow.

Business or the Media? A solid last name with no more than two syllables. Think Trump, Hearst, Turner.

New Age? Throw in a hyphen connecting the mundane with the mysterious, like Abigail Smith-Pearlview.

Politics? An Everyman’s name that rings true to a popular product, or common foliage, preferably with a Biblical reference, like, uh…Bush.

Anything Spiritual; unpronounceably Indian or with no more than three letters (and no vowels) for Asian.

For the sake of completeness, it’s only right to mention: If it’s about money or humor, go Jewish; precision, science-like stuff, go German French for food; Italian for art and British for anything to do with bondage, discipline and spankings. These, of course, are all clichés, but with the power of incontrovertible truth behind them

I think you catch my drift.

Up until a little while ago, Drew thought he was just a hack. But then he tuned into mauihealingartist.com/ mauihealingartist.com and learned that his only job is to be the fullest Drew that he can possibly be. There, he learned, there are things that can come through him that cannot be matched by anyone. This is true with you, too. Is that a stretch for you high-powered executive types? Maybe not…check it out. And even if that doesn’t excite you, he’s sure you’ll get turned on by the art that’s there. If that doesn’t work, you still may get inspired to drop the whole corporate shebang and run away to an island somewheres. Trust Drew. He’s the Expert!

Many devout Christians use the Bible as an operations manual for living in their life experience and to them the Bible is alive and the words are alive and God is alive speaking to them through those words. Is the Bible really life? One philosopher believes it is not and he gives a number of reasons for his belief and his judgment of this concept. The modern-day philosopher or states;

The Bible is not life, nor is it alive, it is a book. Books have characters, symbols and letters which make up words. Words are not alive either. These are tools mankind uses to propel communication in a written form. Your sensory input from reading these symbols does not allow you to automatically KNOW anything.

I give the Bible its due credit as a “must read” story, just like I believe people should read Isaac Asimov Foundation Series, Shakespeare, Plato, Ayn Rand, Machiavelli, Carl von Clausewitz, Charles Dickens, Crime and Punishment, as well as probably some 100 other notables as a baseline for living ones life. That is more than fair considering the possible motives of the writers of the Bible.

Perhaps the concept of the Bible speaking to people is from the vagueness of the words and the multiple interpretations of each verse. Nevertheless, many devout Christians believe that the Bible is alive and the words are the words of God speaking to them. I certainly hope this article is of interest and that is has propelled thought. The goal is simple; to help you in your quest to be the best in 2007. I thank you for reading my many articles on diverse subjects, which interest you.

“Lance Winslow” - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; WorldThinkTank.net/ WorldThinkTank.net/. Lance is a guest writer for ourspokanemagazine.com/ Our Spokane Magazine in Spokane, Washington

Texas Holdem is very complex game with many nuances. Our online gambling recommendationssuggest the key is to be assertive especially in No Limit Holdem where frequently the player who bets initially wins the pot because many times nobody has any strength to their hand so it becomes tough to call a enormous bet with even top pair after the flop. They may believe their kicker is not good enough or maybe they are up against two pair or a set. There are times to be more wary such as when there are many players in the hand. When you are up against a few opponents, the expectation of you winning the hand decrease a large degree. Also, don′t bet too strong with say J-J or 10-10 if a two overcards appear on the flop. Remember to:

1) Be domineering. Remember the most domineering player wins more hands. Raising or folding are often better strategies than calling. Many gambling online resources talk about playing your hand but the top players will tell you “get your money in″ first.

2) Be aware of your opponents and their playing style. One of the most effective keys to onlinegamblingplays.com/” target=”_blank how to make money gambling online is to keep a record of your opponents (something you really can′t do in a bricks and mortar card room). If somebody is always calling, don′t bet into these people with the idea of bluffing. If a very conservative player re-raises you, muck your cards. 3) Be unpredictable. Don′t raise the same number of chips all the time. Raise it up 4 times the big blind with K-Q on one hand and then raise it up just 2 times the big blind with AA. When you do this your opponents will have a distressing time determining your hole cards.

Shane Vandeventer trades stocks and is the webmaster for onlinegamblingplays.com onlinegamblingplays.com. He has won a few online tournaments in Texas Holdem, which he considers as his best game.

In episode two of Prison Break, one of the lessons contained is getting along. It is being mentioned clearly and loudly by the character Warden Henry Pope to every inmate, and by Charles West Moreland directly to Michael J. Scofield. Actually getting along is in the middle of a continuum. The lowest point is staying out of trouble, and the highest point is living a life within order and harmony.

However staying out of trouble, or just getting along in our life is not enough. Each individual shall contribute to order and harmony in our relationships with every other individual, within the societal structure from the base of dyad, upward to team, group, association, organization, state, nation, world, and the apex is the universe.

So the pertinent question at this moment is, do we ever wish that this world is a composition of only one race, one color, one culture, one language, one religion, and every individual is the same and similar in all aspects and characteristics?

What then is the God’s wisdom of this clearness in the variations, differences, and features, and distinctive characteristics that we are? Perhaps our common aspiration is unity in diversity, rather than uniformity in conformity.

It is clear that upholding unity in diversity, then we shall study the similarities and the differences between living a life inside and outside of a prison. The similarity is the likelihood of physical and metaphysical imprisonments. While the outstanding difference of course is total freedom. Surprisingly, where there is total freedom, then that shall be the best place to live in.

Uniquely between the parting walls of any prison, on the outside, relationships exist between those representing the police, the court, and the hospitals, in addition to the entire private and public intra-and-inter departments. On the inside, relationships exist between the inmates, the guards, the officers, the infirmary, and the prison top administrators. Also relevant is the relationship between those on the inside and those on the outside, including relationship between family members.

In this episode of Prison Break, the audience views Michael at the center, and his dyadic relationships include:

* A relationship of brotherhood with Lincoln Burrows. They share the joyous kinship any two brothers can have. Especially they keep no secret between each other, and they are always on a look out protecting each other with concern and love.

To a certain extend Lincoln is seen to be pushing almost everybody away, because he considers himself like an anchor, sinking together individuals having a relationship with him. Also there is a definite contrast between the present relationship between Michael and Lincoln; and the past relationship between Lincoln and Veronica Donovan; and a past-to-be relationship between Veronica and Sebastian.

* A close relationship with Fernando Sucre, his cell mate. Being cell mates, Michael is aware of the importance of this relationship, especially Fernando’s key role in his action planning. However, the initial closeness that they share encounters a sudden blockage after activities of testing in trust, proceeds to distance these two. Perhaps Fernando is concern about his relationships with Maricruz Delgado, involving a challenging Hector Avila to win her for marriage.

* A possible relationship with Dr. Sarah Tancredi. In this relationship, is Michael using momentarily the good doctor to fulfill his action planning, or will these two develop a lasting love relationship that rises above rules and regulations imposing forbidden a relationship between a prison official and an inmate.

* A relationship with Captain Brad Bellick who shows power and authority, also instilling suspicion and fear. Especially when Brad realizes the awkwardness of Henry developing a relationship of liking and providing a few favors to Michael.

Yet, what similarity we can see in Brad extending privileges to John Abruzzi in a special relationship with him, and John’s extended relationship with his associates outside the prison wall.

In addition there is tension in the relationship between Brad and Henry, especially in terms of their leadership styles and approaches, is like the difference between the night and the day.

* A nice tie with Charles. Both are gaining continuous respect and trust. Charles share with Michael about the relationship between the groups of black and white. Inside the prison they never get along.

Overall Michael can be straight forward and simplistic about establishing relationships with other individuals. In the earlier episode Dr. Sarah Tancredi alerted him about trust. Then in this continuing episode Lincoln did the same, alerting Michael about trusting any blacks in their relationship with them. Yet to Michael, their relationships transcend race. Michael is seen to bind a relationship between him and any individual is only on the basis of breaking out of prison in accordance with his action planning. His assessment, judgment, and decision making is thus.

Yet, at this stage, a few do not share his nature especially four prominent leaders, namely John Abruzzi – leading the kinship fraternity; Theodore Bagwell- leading the whites; Benjamin Miles Franklin leading the blacks; and Brad partly leading the prison officers and guards. All four are a major influence in their own individual territory, and they are after Michael, for their own reason, and in their own way.

Michael is perceived by Theodore as mingling with the blacks, and he is accused as a confused individual who is perhaps white on the outside but black on the inside. In addition Michael is perceived by Benjamin as a white who shall remain with the whites and cannot be amongst the blacks. Next, Michael is perceived by John as a blabber who has nothing he needs, and should he needs it, his power enables him to pressure Michael and inflicting him with excruciating pain. Michael is perceived by Brad as a smart individual who is up to crumble the well guarded system of the prison.

Michael has been given a statement by each of them, such as “which side are you on?” “come and be on our side,” and “why you choose the wrong side?” While in the background, on the opposing side is the unique relationship between Special Agent Paul Kellerman and Carolyn Reynolds.

In the entire relationships presented through this episode of Prison Break, the audience can clearly see how vital information is, and how individuals experienced a change in their relationships after they change their perception in light of new and incoming different information.

Above and beyond this, it is interesting to note that the relationships between Lincoln and Crab Simmons; Veronica in a relationship with Wendy her assistant, another lawyer, and La Tisya Dr. Sarah Tancredi in a relationship with Nurse Katie Welch; and more, surely there is an opening of hope, while a bright light shinning on the avenues for all whites, blacks, colored, and others to go beyond getting along in our relationship, to achieve order and harmony on this earth within our entire universe.

A direct benefit shall you obtain after you have watched Prison Break series, particularly episode two, is your preference in the option to contribute order and harmony in your own relationships with other individuals in your life.

Zubli Zainordin, a professional public communicator. An established author in Malaysia, who has published 4 books in his native language. He is presently authoring - the wisdom of total happiness - for the English speaking market. Zubli Zainordin is an Expert mailto:Ezine@rticles Ezine@rticles Author. Also, an International Consulltant for a web application best idea contest.

Zubli Zainordin earned a M. Sc. in Communication - Radio/Television/Film from Indiana State University (Terre Haute, Indiana, USA), Diploma in Mass Communication from University Technology MARA. As a thinker, Zubli Zainordin shares a unique view so that you may prefer to review your inner and outer self, then shall you preview your entire life with a total view.

You shall want to benefit from his special approach to subjects pertaining to total life and total success. He is recognized as a pioneer, the arts and science of total success. He loves to watch television, and he is able to extract some powerful lessons from this activity and share these with you.

Once in while I receive e-mails or phone calls from aspiring or beginner wedding photographers asking me for advise on how to become successful in the wedding field. My first question is always what their motivation is to become a wedding photographer. Some will reply that they heard from somebody that it is easy money, or that they got a cool camera that takes great photos or that they would like to make some money on the side etc.
While it is true that wedding photography can be a very profitable business achieving success in the wedding industry is not just a matter of getting a camera and start shooting. Wedding photography involves artistic talent, human sense, complete mastery of photographic techniques, business knowledge, and a strong desire to learn and deliver the best to the wedding couple.

Here I have summarized some points that I believe will guide beginner wedding photographers:

1. Learn photography before anything else. A wedding photographer is expected to be a master of the craft. You will be in charge of capturing people′s most precious life moments. The wedding day is not the place to learn photography.

2. Just because you got a brand new camera it does not automatically make you an effective and reliable photographer. Photography goes beyond cool toys and gadgets. Learn composition and develop a unique artistic vision. Some of the great photographs of all time were taken with manual cameras.

3. Master the digital workflow, including color management, digital image processing, file management and image correction and enhancement.

4. Learn to love photography more than anything else. Don’t come to the wedding photography field with just dreams of making money. It is true that there are many successful wedding photographers that make a lot of money. However according to the Professional Photographers of America the average photographer in America makes about $24,000 a year.

5. Focus on delivering quality more than quantity. Seek with all your heart to capture unique photographs.

6. Develop a style that is recognizable and unique. Don’t try to be like somebody else. Clients look for unique photographers, with a unique vision.

7. Give wedding photography all your heart and effort. Long when you are gone your photographs will last forever. It is a great way to be remembered.

8. Open your heart and your mind and great photos will happen. Concentrate on the human aspect of weddings, the details, and emotions and be ready to capture them. Let the camera become an extension of you.

9. Share your technical knowledge and make connections with other wedding photographers.

10. Participate in wedding photography image competitions. It will give you the opportunity to have your work evaluated by peers and the motivation to improve your work quality.

11. Learn something new everyday. Take advantage of professional photography organizations such as Professional Photographers of America (PPA), WPPI, etc. Attend their seminars, workshops. Participate in Internet wedding photography forums and learn and share tips, tools and techniques.

12. Don’t neglect the business aspect of wedding photography. Learn to manage your business effectively. Take business courses and seminars.

Juan Carlos Torres is a very respected and awarded wedding photographer in Oregon. He has a Masters Degree in Remote Sensing with a strong background in digital image processing and photography. He is a member of the several professional photographer organizations including the Professional Photographers of America, the Professional Photographers of Oregon, the Wedding Photojournalist Association,and the Oregon Wedding Photo Guild. His wedding photographs are unique and very
artistic and have been featured in national and international magazines. For a sample of his works please visit juancarlosphoto.com Portland Oregon Wedding Photographer and willamettephoto.com Eugene Oregon Wedding Photographer

For a discussion on wedding photography see our Blog at willamettephoto.com/portland-wedding-photographer/ Oregon Wedding Photographer

Many have said that Democracy is on the march and we now have 126 countries in the world; nearly half which have a democracy style of government. Decades the prior we were all worried about Beehive Syndrome and Communism, as the “Domino Affect” was to be prevented at all costs, including US countrymen and soldiers blood. But today we see a new trend towards socialism and communism in South America and one would have thought in watching all the national successes due to Democracy that indeed this would continue.

However, today we see Bolivia, conveniently stealing foreign business and taking over gas and oil companies in their country. Refusing to honor contract renewal arrangements and spitting in the face of capitalism, one of the main components of their economies strengths and of their Democracy. Why? Have we failed to show the best side of Democracy or are those entrusted by the people too short sided to see the benefits for the leadership and the whole of the people?

Are communism style dictatorships on the March in South and Central America? Is Democracy fading away and those nations who ditch this gift of freedom, liberty and rule for the people and by the people doomed to repeat the fall of past civilizations of mankind in this Hemisphere? Is the leader of Bolivia, busy taking advice from Castro, Red China, Venezuela? If so, doesn’t the USA need to send out Video Tapes, manuals, visual presentations to all these nations to educate them on the reality of the flows of civilization and why Democracy is the best long term choice?

“Lance Winslow” - Online WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/ Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance in the Online Think Tank and solve the problems of the World; WorldThinkTank.net www.WorldThinkTank.net/

A hip hop MC has to be more then just some person who can sit with a piece of paper and piece together a few rhymes. In hip hop there is nothing more objective then ones personal opinion of what constitutes not only a good rapper but a great one. Let’s face it, many hip hop artists can come up with an album or two of good rhymes and they may even be able to turn those songs into platinum selling records but that still doesn′t mean that they are great MC’s. Some hip hop fans simply look for a catchy hook that they can sing along with and that’s easy to remember, while others look for pure substance and a flawless delivery when choosing a favorite. Record sales are more about marketing then they are about quality so any list that uses that as the criteria holds little credence. So what is it that truly constitutes a great rapper? Lyrical content, delivery and adaptability!

Lyrical content simply means that the hip hop artist not only talks about something with substance but also possesses the ability to paint a vivid picture through the use of imagery. There is nothing better then hearing a hip hop artist talk about something you may have thought about numerous times and having them put it in a way that is so simple yet so profound that you never even began to look at it that way before.

Delivery is a little subjective of a category because it is not something that you can really put your finger on. The most important aspect of a hip hop artist’s delivery is definitely their voice. You can have the greatest lyrics and beat but if your voice is nasal or just overall unappealing, it simply won’t resonate with the audience. The second most important part of a delivery is in the hip hop world what is called “flow”! A hip hop artist’s flow is what essentially distinguishes them from all the other artists. Some hip hop artist’s flow may be elementary while some may have more of a melodic feel to them. Many hip hop artists have a mellow or calming effect to their voice while others have a sense of rage and urgency. All these aspects combine to create an artist’s delivery.

Adaptability is one of the true litmus tests in the hip hop industry. Not only do the styles of music change with every year that past but they also change with each producer a hip hop artist works with. To be adaptable in hip hop doesn’t only constitute being able to rap over any style of music it also includes ones ability to freestyle. In no way am I claiming that you can’t be a great rapper without entering and winning various freestyle competitions. What I am stating is that many hip hop artists are given music to work with on short notice and many of these same artists are unable to come up with any material in that short amount of time. The truly great hip hop artist can be given an instrumental and have great material written and ready to be recorded in a few hours.

This isn’t meant to be some definitive test that all should abide by. The sad thing about the state of hip hop today is that most of its stars are built without anyone really putting in much thought in regard to their talent. I’m hoping now that by using this criteria hip hop fans will put their favorite artists up to the test and see if they truly survive.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to hip-hop-guides.com/ Hip Hop