Well here we are, at the beginning of what promises to be a website of varying opinions and off-comments that would make someone born in 1923 keel over and die. Newsburrito is a virtual burrito of news, wrapped up in the flakiest and most satisfying tortilla you can imagine, complete with enough cheese to stop the bowel movements of you favorite uncle, and salsa-like updates that will have you wondering what peppers and stories they are made of. This burrito will make you salivate, it will question the very things that have contributed to the aging of your soul, and it will be sure to be a painful departure hours after consumption. Enjoy the vibrant color, the musk of perfection, the exotic flavor, and signature taste that is....Newsburrito
Today we unwrap what seems to be the official return of the pirate. Piracy is something that has transformed from the tough and smelly bearded rough-asses of the past, into nerdy overweight thieves who steal their favorite Kelly Clarkson and Seal songs from a local server. This is no more. Pirate have once again claimed fame today by hijacking a ship, and holding the captain hostage. A U.S. warship races to the scene of the crime, to probably mess everything up, kill the pirates and mourn the casualty they will soon be responsible for.
If there is one thing I have learned about the U.S. it is this...we are terrible with hostage situations. We are the real life version of Die Hard, always trying to save the day, refusing to negotiate and let the bad guys get away. The bad part is the reality factor, when you don`t save the day and the criminals do what they told you they would if you interfere....kill hostages.
Last week in a siege scenario, 13 people died as a malicious gunman entered the New York building and began to open fire. It is shameful to see what this world is turning into, where people just kill innocents they do not know. These people have families and could probably be good company if you had a beer with them. Apparently the agenda of have 10 seconds of fame, claiming to be a terrorist, and dying in a gunfight is a more admirable scenario for some.
So back to the pirates. Somalia officially receives the award for most dysfunctional government in the world right now. For months, they have had this pirate problem. You know your government is in shambles when you cannot end a problem every other country took care of a hundred years ago. Really Somalia?! I`m pretty sure small arms that are manufactured and sold in your country for $5 can fend off pirates with the right fishing boat. Even more importantly...who is pulling over for these guys? If I was driving a freight and a bunch of Somalians in tattered clothes waved a bunch of semi-automatic rifles they could hit the water with were waving their guns at me....I would probably go inside and keep driving. "No thanks guys, I have some ship maneuvering I have to do!"
These pirates cannot be driving around fast and brutally armored ships, if they had that kind of money, they wouldn't be pirates. Come on.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
The Final Search for The American Dream
The following is a propsal for a hopeful video project with the goal of setting out in the Summer of 2009, set to come out at the end of the first decade of the new millenium.
The Final Search for the American Dream
Submitted by
Jason C. Reynard, Project Manager
For Consideration
March 2009
Copyrighted 2009
Request for Financial Support of the
Final Search for the American Dream
Jason Reynard, Project Manager
Almost 40 years ago, Dr. Hunter S. Thompson set out on a journey to find the “American Dream”. His search ended in a drug-induced trip to Las Vegas, but this project hopes to finish his original plan to find that dream. In recent years, it seems the dream has turned into a nightmare, as economics and war have split this nation. The problems that America and the new administration face have thrown this nation off course. The goal of this project is to capture a picture of America in the first decade of the new millennium, (which may be one of the worst decades in the nation`s history) and compare it to the time of 1970, when Dr. Thompson went on his journey. My film crew and I wish to compare two times, one after the optimistic counterculture, and the other on the edge of the pessimistic unknown. We believe the American Dream is the product of an idea lost through decades of changes, made on the assembly lines after the Industrial Revolution. We believe America sold its soul, and lost any ability to truly dream. In our hearts we know this project is this generation`s baby. In the following text, I will detail the requested funding for this excursion, along with specific goals, and a detailed path of where this journey will begin and end.
Requests
For summer of 2009:
· $1,359 for gasoline expenses
-7,068+ Miles covered in July and August of 2009
-$2.50 gallon (trends show $ increase during summer)
-1991 Ford Econoline- 13/15 MPG
· $3,000 for 1991 Ford Econoline with corny decal
-Crucial for transporting equipment and crew
-Style
· $3,600 for food supplies for crew
-2 months on the road
-$15 per day/ per person (x4)
(Finances Continued)
· $4,200 for 60 nights in $70/ per night hotel rooms
· $750 for footage
-$25 per 5 Sony MiniDV tapes
-1 hour per Mini
-150 hours of footage
· $350 for small camera (we have a Canon XL2 and equipment, but wish to not be left with only one camera)
· $2,000 for emergency funding
Emergency funding is to cover unforeseen costs, such as changing gas prices, vehicle repairs, extra equipment and footage, tolls, tickets, and other such expenses.
Financial Request Total: $15,259
Travel Log
To capture all of America, our goal is to capture many different American cultures, and follow a travel version of “connect the dots” to some important cities throughout the country where highly debated political issues rise. This is a raw version of America. The audience is to decide whether the American Dream is real, or a nightmare from which we must forcefully wake ourselves. Inside of these large cities (detailed throughout this proposal), our goal is to schedule an interview with at least one important figure. In the following paragraphs are some ideas as to whom we wish to interview. After the project holds funding, the crewmembers will work diligently to set up appointments far in advance. The name recognition of Rolling Stone will be sure to help secure high-profile interviews. The target interviewees will be government officials, celebrities, historians, and journalists. Each day on the road is equal to a night in a hotel. On the way to large cities, we will film and interview average citizens in small towns and cities, looking for the American Dream and what that dream entails. The following page will detail the tracks of land covered during this period. The small cities and towns covered will not be decided until we pass through them on the road. This is a rough “travel skeleton” for the two-month period, where the actual number of days will not be decided until all interviews are set up ahead of time, and the trip has an itinerary to follow.
(Travel Log)
· 185 miles to Pittsburgh from Columbus, OH.
As natives of Ohio, there will be no stopping on the way to Pittsburgh, as we feel that we can fill the space of this region of the country throughout the film. Once in Pittsburgh, the goal is to track blue-collar workers, the steel industry, and their version of the American Dream. This is where that dream is built. Key interviews that we will attempt to set up apart from average citizens include: faculty of PITT, and Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, who tried to change his name to “Steelerstahl” during an NFL playoff game with the Baltimore Ravens. Sure enough, the Steelers won the Super Bowl, and Luke, without the majority of the population knowing his political platform, probably secured another term in office for his ridiculous stunt.
· 370 miles from Pittsburgh to New York City
New York City immediately shows the difference between the Midwest and East Coast, the change of culture will be felt immediately once the crew enters New York City. Interviews of citizens will be important here, as many people from Ohio and other parts of the Midwest move to this city actively looking for their dream. We will be in the city for at least four days, attempting to find how the dream changes from borough to borough. There will be no lingering in Manhattan, as we will explore all areas, black and white. There is an endless amount of people to interview in New York, but key interviews to obtain will be with Matt Lauer (OU alumni and supporter of OU projects), firefighters, and hip-hop artists native to the area such as KRS-One, Mos Def, or Talib Kweli if available to represent hip-hop culture.
· 95 miles from New York City to Philadelphia
Philadelphia is important when observing where the idea of America began. The time in Philadelphia will be spent around historic landmarks, and key interviews will be set up with local historians, along with a possible Benjamin Franklin impersonator, and players or those in upper management for the World Series Champion Philadelphia Phillies. It seems that in Philadelphia the American Dream is realized. It is important to see that our founding fathers had a different vision of America than we do today, a country based on principles, not solely on money. We have lost sight of the American idea because we have been busy American daydreaming about profit.
· 144 miles from Philadelphia to Washington D.C.
D.C. will be quick and hopefully painless. The goal is to get an overview of the D.C. politicians know, and then the D.C. that various residents know. The two are very different and distant from one another, and I believe D.C. is a microcosm of the country we live in today. As the nation`s capital, inequality may the only thing properly represented in D.C. This is where the American Dream is manipulated.
(Travel Log Continued)
One interview with a politician, but no more; these beasts are the ones that trick the public into a dream they create for those they have never known. Many politicians are elected by making the public believe they are the “American Dream”, and I believe most politicians will tell you they have 2.5 children, sadly, at least 2.5% of our population would believe it.
· 681 miles from Washington D.C. to Nashville
Nashville`s country music history is beyond intriguing, even for those that don’t enjoy country music. This is the first stop of the South, and it is once again a major culture shift. Inside Nashville, interviews are to be held with country music stars, producers, and at least one person wearing a cowboy hat. The American Dream “Boot Scootin` Boogies” here.
· 249 miles from Nashville to Atlanta
Atlanta is the southernmost city we will hit on the East Coast, and where we hope to confront cultural lines around the city. Key interviews will be from the rich and poor citizens of the city, as well as a hopeful interview with a CNN news anchor or PR person. This is where the American Dream is covered. More often than not, people are frustrated in this country with the media, so intentions are to raise questions about this concern. Americans spend their days watching the news and making things seem distant, while problems right outside the front door need addressing. I believe this is true in the average household and at CNN headquarters.
· 468 miles from Atlanta to New Orleans
New Orleans is one of the most important stops on the tour. Years after Hurricane Katrina, areas are still decimated, and the American public`s obsession with the French Quarter and Mardi Gras has diverted attention from what is still going on. The American Dream was abandoned in this city. New Orleans is one of the most culture-rich parts of America, and the food and music is unbelievable. Key interviews will be with survivors of Katrina, Mayor Nagin, Blues artists, and volunteers who are still working in many of the areas.
(Travel Log Continued)
· 532 miles from New Orleans to Waco
For many, the American Dream burned alive in Waco Texas. After watching this, Timothy McVeigh further crushed the dreams and lives of Americans after the Oklahoma City Bombing. Waco will show current peace in the rural areas, and then the destruction that the city knew that fateful day. Key interviews will be with citizens, arms salespersons, and current Branch Davidians. It will be interesting to see what the American Dream is for those who believe themselves to be living in “end times”. This is where the American Dream dies.
· 675 miles from Waco to El Paso
As a border town, this is where those from the outside rush to, in hopes of finding the American Dream. This is an issue dividing America, as the War on Drugs collides with immigration and the 2nd amendment. Some describe this as a “war zone”, but someone like Lou Dobbs just thinks it is Hell on Earth. A few miles on the opposite side of the border is where the American Dream is dreamt. Key interviews will be with border patrol officers, politicians, citizens, and District Attorney Jaime Esparza.
· 430 miles from El Paso to Phoenix
Phoenix is not only gorgeous, but one of the largest cities in the U.S. Another culture shift takes place in this region. Phoenix is an oasis in the region, a newer city that has made a good reputation quickly, and flourished. This is where the American Dream pays off…or is it? Gun violence seems to be a large problem in Phoenix, a reoccurring theme in this country. Key figures to interview are entrepreneurs, and if everything goes well John McCain.
· 373 miles from Phoenix to Los Angeles and Hollywood
Another important stop, this is where the American Dream gets an ego and turns into a fairy tale. For others, this is where the American Dream is broken. Once again, this city`s coverage is not only in high-end areas, but also the lower income areas. Americans dream about the Hollywood lifestyle, and immerse themselves in all of the gossip through television and magazines, but is this how life was intended to be lived? I believe this is where the American Dream is made up. Key interviews will be held with successful actors, struggling actors, and anything else the entertainment business can purge onto us.
(Travel Log Continued)
· 375 miles from Hollywood to San Francisco
San Francisco is the place where 40 years ago people were waking up from the American Dream. It was the birthplace of counterculture and of course, Rolling Stone. This is the “peak” of the journey, and the end of our “travel skeleton”. After this, it is 2,000+ miles through the vast “heartland” of America, where the real problem is finding a beating heart. This is a great way to celebrate Hunter`s trip. Key interviews are the remnants of the promise of the 60`s, Rolling Stone editors, musicians, and any random crazies roaming the Haight-Ashbury that can fill in generations gaps.
· 2135 miles from San Francisco to Chicago
This is sure to be the most interesting part of the tour, and very well could be where the American Dream loses direction. There are over 2,000 miles of unknown space that is going to be shot through, and unplanned stops through small town America. Here key interviews will be with citizens, the most random people on the face of the planet, and historians that can fill us in on these unknown areas. This will show the space between San Francisco and the Midwest in miles and ideology. The migration is one many have made in search of their dream, much like New York. While in Chicago, the greatest interview to get would be with Oprah Winfrey, and if possible, we will sit in at the show. Oprah has had so much success that numerous bank accounts cannot contain it. Chicago is where the tour has become full circle, and we have made our way back to the Midwest. Other key interviews will be with newspaper writers such as Michael Wilbon, and Cubs fans that have been dreaming for a World Series for over 100 years, along with musicians, and pizza shop owners
· 356 miles from Chicago to Columbus
This time is to serve as a short reflection period through Indiana and home to Ohio. Along the way, we will sum up the American Dream, and share final thoughts on the journey. By this time we will have an idea of what the dream is, where it is, and where it has been, if it exists. This country holds so many different cultures that it is hard to provide one dream or one idea. Since 2001, we feel our generation has been violently thrown into history. Terrorism at home, Katrina, economic struggle, war around the world, political scandal, a divided nation, and other events make the real world loudly banging on the door as we walk out. As adolescence has faded, so has the America of last millennium, and in that time others have had their youth swallowed up by time. The sound of the term American Dream will echo through history longer than our lives, and we look to trap it in time, holding it idle long enough to disprove it.
The Crew
We come with a quality camera, lighting, and microphone, determination and wonder. What we do need are the above-mentioned finances and the 1991 Econoline in the sunset of life, which is the perfect vehicle to carry us on the trade winds of freedom. This section covers the biographies of the crew, their specializations and relevance.
Ø Jason Reynard
Reynard is a freelance writer and amateur stand-up comedian graduating from Ohio University in June 2009, with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and History. Reynard has been writing and performing stand-up comedy since 2004. As a member of Comedy for the Masses at Ohio University, Reynard acted in and wrote sketches, while planning group events. He is a current member of the Political Science Majors Association, and writes freelance articles on sports, politics, and music. Reynard has written detailed reports on Hezbollah and FARC, given speeches on proposed reformations to the United Nations, and human rights abuses in Africa. He is the project manager and creator, as well as a writer and interviewer.
Ø Matthew Campolo
Campolo is currently working on his Master`s in Sports Administration at Northwestern University after completing his Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunications in Journalism and Speech Communications at the University of Georgia. Campolo worked as an intern for HBO`s public relations, setting up promotional events and planning the premiere of HBO`s award winning John Adams miniseries. Campolo worked for UGA`s student run sports show Georgia Gameday as a camera man, and wrote press releases for the Sports Communications Department at the University of Georgia. As an intern for June Beallor Productions, Campolo met and worked with Universal Studios producers and directors. Campolo is the project producer, as well as a writer, interviewer, and head of public relations.
(Crew Continued)
Ø Evan Smith
Evan earned his Bachelor in Communications from E.W. Scripps College of Communications at Ohio University, where he studied film. Evan is a screenplay writer, director, producer, and film editor. Over the years, Evan has operated camera equipment, lighting, and sound. Some of his short documentaries and narratives can be seen on Current.com. Smith has also worked for Athens Video Works as an associate producer and OU`s Advanced Video Projects as a production assistant. Smith is the project director, equipment manager, and editor, as well as a writer.
Ø Kevin Butler
Butler is a current student at Loyola University, studying as a paralegal concentrating in civil litigation. Butler received his Bachelor of Specialized Studies at Ohio University, studying Journalism and English. Butler is a project writer, interviewer, as well as transportation manager, public relations manager, and legal advisor.
Benefits to Contributors
We are searching for a staple of American culture, and this project will attempt to find the soul behind that culture. This project is cheap, with a large pay-off financially, historically, and politically. By funding this project, the funders allow themselves to strengthen bonds to the legacy of Hunter S. Thompson, while at the same time invigorating a young generation. The wide appeal this project holds will close the gap between generations, and draw interest from different geographical corners of the nation. The project is a time capsule.
“The Final Search for the American Dream” confronts the differences of this nation and the problems it faces through economic crisis. There is no predetermined viewpoint or agenda to address. Exposure of rhetoric and loaded words used in this country to oversimplify political issues and persuade the public in a specific manner is imperative. The crew plans to refresh the public with the completion of this project, to invigorate the youth, and revert to old ways of being involved in the country as opposed to simply complaining about it.
This crew is young and ambitious; something important in what many believe is a deteriorating country. “The Final Search” holds the goal of opening eyes, of looking at what the idea of America was and what it has become. The time has come for the public to stop the blame and analysis of a political party, but to turn criticism inward, reviewing self and American society. “The Final Search” has the opportunity to help spark cultural phenomena parallel to that of the 60`s.
Promotional opportunities are extremely significant, as technology will give the crew ability to cover this project in a revolutionary manner. The language and writing skills of the crew are an asset to this project. The phenomena of “blogs” can provide a way for the crew to keep readers visiting the staff`s website every day, utilizing stories from the road, and detailing day-to-day life. Close to two hours of footage and 2 months of travel can provide a plethora of story ideas to be published. Areas such as New Orleans, Atlanta, New York, Nashville and San Francisco each are tied directly to the history of music, another interest of Americans. All of this would be covered and used without any need for extra funds; the crew could become a beat machine. The crew is young and hopeful, and this tour of America will track their growth as people, as they travel with no real destination.
Dynamic of the Final Search of the American Dream
Through the late 90`s and into the new millennium, things going awry seem to be the norm in American life. Suicide, addiction to deadly drugs such as crystal meth, and violence in our schools raise alarms. The adolescence of man Americans revolves around dreams of success, adventure, heroism, and a better life. When the children wake up from this dream, they turn angry, self-destructive, and depressed. The nightmare begins. A dream is a place where the mind wanders and the body never knows. In this fantasyland, there is no real dirt or oxygen, and soon enough it suffocates the youth right out of the American. As we grow older, the dream changes from one of adventure and experience, to one of money and power. The dream drifts off to sea as the dreamer lies paralyzed on the beach, watching the dream float away, and the sun dries the life out of the dreamer.
Does the American Dream keep us going, or does it keep us from evolving into better humans? It was an idea, one of a better life, but it seems that as time goes on, this financial machine in America gains power and momentum. People doing anything to attain their dreams created the machine, and it swallows up human emotion, spitting out the bones of child laborers in India and old landmines in Africa. Is the American Dream meant to be achieved, or is it the creation of this dream that keeps the mouse`s wheel turning? We look to define the dream, attempt to find the dream, and expose it, just as Dr. Thompson wanted to. I can picture his ghost wandering the land; with a tattered American flag wrapped around him, still searching for something more.
The Final Search for the American Dream
Submitted by
Jason C. Reynard, Project Manager
For Consideration
March 2009
Copyrighted 2009
Request for Financial Support of the
Final Search for the American Dream
Jason Reynard, Project Manager
Almost 40 years ago, Dr. Hunter S. Thompson set out on a journey to find the “American Dream”. His search ended in a drug-induced trip to Las Vegas, but this project hopes to finish his original plan to find that dream. In recent years, it seems the dream has turned into a nightmare, as economics and war have split this nation. The problems that America and the new administration face have thrown this nation off course. The goal of this project is to capture a picture of America in the first decade of the new millennium, (which may be one of the worst decades in the nation`s history) and compare it to the time of 1970, when Dr. Thompson went on his journey. My film crew and I wish to compare two times, one after the optimistic counterculture, and the other on the edge of the pessimistic unknown. We believe the American Dream is the product of an idea lost through decades of changes, made on the assembly lines after the Industrial Revolution. We believe America sold its soul, and lost any ability to truly dream. In our hearts we know this project is this generation`s baby. In the following text, I will detail the requested funding for this excursion, along with specific goals, and a detailed path of where this journey will begin and end.
Requests
For summer of 2009:
· $1,359 for gasoline expenses
-7,068+ Miles covered in July and August of 2009
-$2.50 gallon (trends show $ increase during summer)
-1991 Ford Econoline- 13/15 MPG
· $3,000 for 1991 Ford Econoline with corny decal
-Crucial for transporting equipment and crew
-Style
· $3,600 for food supplies for crew
-2 months on the road
-$15 per day/ per person (x4)
(Finances Continued)
· $4,200 for 60 nights in $70/ per night hotel rooms
· $750 for footage
-$25 per 5 Sony MiniDV tapes
-1 hour per Mini
-150 hours of footage
· $350 for small camera (we have a Canon XL2 and equipment, but wish to not be left with only one camera)
· $2,000 for emergency funding
Emergency funding is to cover unforeseen costs, such as changing gas prices, vehicle repairs, extra equipment and footage, tolls, tickets, and other such expenses.
Financial Request Total: $15,259
Travel Log
To capture all of America, our goal is to capture many different American cultures, and follow a travel version of “connect the dots” to some important cities throughout the country where highly debated political issues rise. This is a raw version of America. The audience is to decide whether the American Dream is real, or a nightmare from which we must forcefully wake ourselves. Inside of these large cities (detailed throughout this proposal), our goal is to schedule an interview with at least one important figure. In the following paragraphs are some ideas as to whom we wish to interview. After the project holds funding, the crewmembers will work diligently to set up appointments far in advance. The name recognition of Rolling Stone will be sure to help secure high-profile interviews. The target interviewees will be government officials, celebrities, historians, and journalists. Each day on the road is equal to a night in a hotel. On the way to large cities, we will film and interview average citizens in small towns and cities, looking for the American Dream and what that dream entails. The following page will detail the tracks of land covered during this period. The small cities and towns covered will not be decided until we pass through them on the road. This is a rough “travel skeleton” for the two-month period, where the actual number of days will not be decided until all interviews are set up ahead of time, and the trip has an itinerary to follow.
(Travel Log)
· 185 miles to Pittsburgh from Columbus, OH.
As natives of Ohio, there will be no stopping on the way to Pittsburgh, as we feel that we can fill the space of this region of the country throughout the film. Once in Pittsburgh, the goal is to track blue-collar workers, the steel industry, and their version of the American Dream. This is where that dream is built. Key interviews that we will attempt to set up apart from average citizens include: faculty of PITT, and Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, who tried to change his name to “Steelerstahl” during an NFL playoff game with the Baltimore Ravens. Sure enough, the Steelers won the Super Bowl, and Luke, without the majority of the population knowing his political platform, probably secured another term in office for his ridiculous stunt.
· 370 miles from Pittsburgh to New York City
New York City immediately shows the difference between the Midwest and East Coast, the change of culture will be felt immediately once the crew enters New York City. Interviews of citizens will be important here, as many people from Ohio and other parts of the Midwest move to this city actively looking for their dream. We will be in the city for at least four days, attempting to find how the dream changes from borough to borough. There will be no lingering in Manhattan, as we will explore all areas, black and white. There is an endless amount of people to interview in New York, but key interviews to obtain will be with Matt Lauer (OU alumni and supporter of OU projects), firefighters, and hip-hop artists native to the area such as KRS-One, Mos Def, or Talib Kweli if available to represent hip-hop culture.
· 95 miles from New York City to Philadelphia
Philadelphia is important when observing where the idea of America began. The time in Philadelphia will be spent around historic landmarks, and key interviews will be set up with local historians, along with a possible Benjamin Franklin impersonator, and players or those in upper management for the World Series Champion Philadelphia Phillies. It seems that in Philadelphia the American Dream is realized. It is important to see that our founding fathers had a different vision of America than we do today, a country based on principles, not solely on money. We have lost sight of the American idea because we have been busy American daydreaming about profit.
· 144 miles from Philadelphia to Washington D.C.
D.C. will be quick and hopefully painless. The goal is to get an overview of the D.C. politicians know, and then the D.C. that various residents know. The two are very different and distant from one another, and I believe D.C. is a microcosm of the country we live in today. As the nation`s capital, inequality may the only thing properly represented in D.C. This is where the American Dream is manipulated.
(Travel Log Continued)
One interview with a politician, but no more; these beasts are the ones that trick the public into a dream they create for those they have never known. Many politicians are elected by making the public believe they are the “American Dream”, and I believe most politicians will tell you they have 2.5 children, sadly, at least 2.5% of our population would believe it.
· 681 miles from Washington D.C. to Nashville
Nashville`s country music history is beyond intriguing, even for those that don’t enjoy country music. This is the first stop of the South, and it is once again a major culture shift. Inside Nashville, interviews are to be held with country music stars, producers, and at least one person wearing a cowboy hat. The American Dream “Boot Scootin` Boogies” here.
· 249 miles from Nashville to Atlanta
Atlanta is the southernmost city we will hit on the East Coast, and where we hope to confront cultural lines around the city. Key interviews will be from the rich and poor citizens of the city, as well as a hopeful interview with a CNN news anchor or PR person. This is where the American Dream is covered. More often than not, people are frustrated in this country with the media, so intentions are to raise questions about this concern. Americans spend their days watching the news and making things seem distant, while problems right outside the front door need addressing. I believe this is true in the average household and at CNN headquarters.
· 468 miles from Atlanta to New Orleans
New Orleans is one of the most important stops on the tour. Years after Hurricane Katrina, areas are still decimated, and the American public`s obsession with the French Quarter and Mardi Gras has diverted attention from what is still going on. The American Dream was abandoned in this city. New Orleans is one of the most culture-rich parts of America, and the food and music is unbelievable. Key interviews will be with survivors of Katrina, Mayor Nagin, Blues artists, and volunteers who are still working in many of the areas.
(Travel Log Continued)
· 532 miles from New Orleans to Waco
For many, the American Dream burned alive in Waco Texas. After watching this, Timothy McVeigh further crushed the dreams and lives of Americans after the Oklahoma City Bombing. Waco will show current peace in the rural areas, and then the destruction that the city knew that fateful day. Key interviews will be with citizens, arms salespersons, and current Branch Davidians. It will be interesting to see what the American Dream is for those who believe themselves to be living in “end times”. This is where the American Dream dies.
· 675 miles from Waco to El Paso
As a border town, this is where those from the outside rush to, in hopes of finding the American Dream. This is an issue dividing America, as the War on Drugs collides with immigration and the 2nd amendment. Some describe this as a “war zone”, but someone like Lou Dobbs just thinks it is Hell on Earth. A few miles on the opposite side of the border is where the American Dream is dreamt. Key interviews will be with border patrol officers, politicians, citizens, and District Attorney Jaime Esparza.
· 430 miles from El Paso to Phoenix
Phoenix is not only gorgeous, but one of the largest cities in the U.S. Another culture shift takes place in this region. Phoenix is an oasis in the region, a newer city that has made a good reputation quickly, and flourished. This is where the American Dream pays off…or is it? Gun violence seems to be a large problem in Phoenix, a reoccurring theme in this country. Key figures to interview are entrepreneurs, and if everything goes well John McCain.
· 373 miles from Phoenix to Los Angeles and Hollywood
Another important stop, this is where the American Dream gets an ego and turns into a fairy tale. For others, this is where the American Dream is broken. Once again, this city`s coverage is not only in high-end areas, but also the lower income areas. Americans dream about the Hollywood lifestyle, and immerse themselves in all of the gossip through television and magazines, but is this how life was intended to be lived? I believe this is where the American Dream is made up. Key interviews will be held with successful actors, struggling actors, and anything else the entertainment business can purge onto us.
(Travel Log Continued)
· 375 miles from Hollywood to San Francisco
San Francisco is the place where 40 years ago people were waking up from the American Dream. It was the birthplace of counterculture and of course, Rolling Stone. This is the “peak” of the journey, and the end of our “travel skeleton”. After this, it is 2,000+ miles through the vast “heartland” of America, where the real problem is finding a beating heart. This is a great way to celebrate Hunter`s trip. Key interviews are the remnants of the promise of the 60`s, Rolling Stone editors, musicians, and any random crazies roaming the Haight-Ashbury that can fill in generations gaps.
· 2135 miles from San Francisco to Chicago
This is sure to be the most interesting part of the tour, and very well could be where the American Dream loses direction. There are over 2,000 miles of unknown space that is going to be shot through, and unplanned stops through small town America. Here key interviews will be with citizens, the most random people on the face of the planet, and historians that can fill us in on these unknown areas. This will show the space between San Francisco and the Midwest in miles and ideology. The migration is one many have made in search of their dream, much like New York. While in Chicago, the greatest interview to get would be with Oprah Winfrey, and if possible, we will sit in at the show. Oprah has had so much success that numerous bank accounts cannot contain it. Chicago is where the tour has become full circle, and we have made our way back to the Midwest. Other key interviews will be with newspaper writers such as Michael Wilbon, and Cubs fans that have been dreaming for a World Series for over 100 years, along with musicians, and pizza shop owners
· 356 miles from Chicago to Columbus
This time is to serve as a short reflection period through Indiana and home to Ohio. Along the way, we will sum up the American Dream, and share final thoughts on the journey. By this time we will have an idea of what the dream is, where it is, and where it has been, if it exists. This country holds so many different cultures that it is hard to provide one dream or one idea. Since 2001, we feel our generation has been violently thrown into history. Terrorism at home, Katrina, economic struggle, war around the world, political scandal, a divided nation, and other events make the real world loudly banging on the door as we walk out. As adolescence has faded, so has the America of last millennium, and in that time others have had their youth swallowed up by time. The sound of the term American Dream will echo through history longer than our lives, and we look to trap it in time, holding it idle long enough to disprove it.
The Crew
We come with a quality camera, lighting, and microphone, determination and wonder. What we do need are the above-mentioned finances and the 1991 Econoline in the sunset of life, which is the perfect vehicle to carry us on the trade winds of freedom. This section covers the biographies of the crew, their specializations and relevance.
Ø Jason Reynard
Reynard is a freelance writer and amateur stand-up comedian graduating from Ohio University in June 2009, with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and History. Reynard has been writing and performing stand-up comedy since 2004. As a member of Comedy for the Masses at Ohio University, Reynard acted in and wrote sketches, while planning group events. He is a current member of the Political Science Majors Association, and writes freelance articles on sports, politics, and music. Reynard has written detailed reports on Hezbollah and FARC, given speeches on proposed reformations to the United Nations, and human rights abuses in Africa. He is the project manager and creator, as well as a writer and interviewer.
Ø Matthew Campolo
Campolo is currently working on his Master`s in Sports Administration at Northwestern University after completing his Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunications in Journalism and Speech Communications at the University of Georgia. Campolo worked as an intern for HBO`s public relations, setting up promotional events and planning the premiere of HBO`s award winning John Adams miniseries. Campolo worked for UGA`s student run sports show Georgia Gameday as a camera man, and wrote press releases for the Sports Communications Department at the University of Georgia. As an intern for June Beallor Productions, Campolo met and worked with Universal Studios producers and directors. Campolo is the project producer, as well as a writer, interviewer, and head of public relations.
(Crew Continued)
Ø Evan Smith
Evan earned his Bachelor in Communications from E.W. Scripps College of Communications at Ohio University, where he studied film. Evan is a screenplay writer, director, producer, and film editor. Over the years, Evan has operated camera equipment, lighting, and sound. Some of his short documentaries and narratives can be seen on Current.com. Smith has also worked for Athens Video Works as an associate producer and OU`s Advanced Video Projects as a production assistant. Smith is the project director, equipment manager, and editor, as well as a writer.
Ø Kevin Butler
Butler is a current student at Loyola University, studying as a paralegal concentrating in civil litigation. Butler received his Bachelor of Specialized Studies at Ohio University, studying Journalism and English. Butler is a project writer, interviewer, as well as transportation manager, public relations manager, and legal advisor.
Benefits to Contributors
We are searching for a staple of American culture, and this project will attempt to find the soul behind that culture. This project is cheap, with a large pay-off financially, historically, and politically. By funding this project, the funders allow themselves to strengthen bonds to the legacy of Hunter S. Thompson, while at the same time invigorating a young generation. The wide appeal this project holds will close the gap between generations, and draw interest from different geographical corners of the nation. The project is a time capsule.
“The Final Search for the American Dream” confronts the differences of this nation and the problems it faces through economic crisis. There is no predetermined viewpoint or agenda to address. Exposure of rhetoric and loaded words used in this country to oversimplify political issues and persuade the public in a specific manner is imperative. The crew plans to refresh the public with the completion of this project, to invigorate the youth, and revert to old ways of being involved in the country as opposed to simply complaining about it.
This crew is young and ambitious; something important in what many believe is a deteriorating country. “The Final Search” holds the goal of opening eyes, of looking at what the idea of America was and what it has become. The time has come for the public to stop the blame and analysis of a political party, but to turn criticism inward, reviewing self and American society. “The Final Search” has the opportunity to help spark cultural phenomena parallel to that of the 60`s.
Promotional opportunities are extremely significant, as technology will give the crew ability to cover this project in a revolutionary manner. The language and writing skills of the crew are an asset to this project. The phenomena of “blogs” can provide a way for the crew to keep readers visiting the staff`s website every day, utilizing stories from the road, and detailing day-to-day life. Close to two hours of footage and 2 months of travel can provide a plethora of story ideas to be published. Areas such as New Orleans, Atlanta, New York, Nashville and San Francisco each are tied directly to the history of music, another interest of Americans. All of this would be covered and used without any need for extra funds; the crew could become a beat machine. The crew is young and hopeful, and this tour of America will track their growth as people, as they travel with no real destination.
Dynamic of the Final Search of the American Dream
Through the late 90`s and into the new millennium, things going awry seem to be the norm in American life. Suicide, addiction to deadly drugs such as crystal meth, and violence in our schools raise alarms. The adolescence of man Americans revolves around dreams of success, adventure, heroism, and a better life. When the children wake up from this dream, they turn angry, self-destructive, and depressed. The nightmare begins. A dream is a place where the mind wanders and the body never knows. In this fantasyland, there is no real dirt or oxygen, and soon enough it suffocates the youth right out of the American. As we grow older, the dream changes from one of adventure and experience, to one of money and power. The dream drifts off to sea as the dreamer lies paralyzed on the beach, watching the dream float away, and the sun dries the life out of the dreamer.
Does the American Dream keep us going, or does it keep us from evolving into better humans? It was an idea, one of a better life, but it seems that as time goes on, this financial machine in America gains power and momentum. People doing anything to attain their dreams created the machine, and it swallows up human emotion, spitting out the bones of child laborers in India and old landmines in Africa. Is the American Dream meant to be achieved, or is it the creation of this dream that keeps the mouse`s wheel turning? We look to define the dream, attempt to find the dream, and expose it, just as Dr. Thompson wanted to. I can picture his ghost wandering the land; with a tattered American flag wrapped around him, still searching for something more.
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