Donald G. Asher: The Accidental Actor

On to the next adventure(s)

2011-12-05T20:31:00.000-06:00

It's hard to believe it, but today was my first official day of semi-retirement.
That's not to say I plan on taking it easy. It only means I am slowing down, way down.
Nearly three years ago I joined the most prestigious injury law firm of Kenneth J. Allen & Associates after spending 40+ years as a journalist.
All of it has been the greatest ride anyone could imagine. I've been fortunate enough to meet everyone from the President of the United States, to the now late Tom Ferebee - bombardier on the Enola Gay on its mission over Hiroshima, to Johnny Depp, who needs no introduction.
Adventures during my career are memories I will never forget; nor do I want to. They include flying into a hurricane with the US Air Force Hurricane Hunters, flying in B-52s on missions during Vietnam, traveling Route 66 "The Mother Road" in a new Corvette, and so many more I cannot begin to detail here.
And I don't plan on stopping. Adventure has been part of my life. Pushing the envelope has always been a thrill. Tell me I can't do something, and I'll usually prove you wrong.
Some of those challenges are more difficult than others. The greater the risk, the more I'll try to prove anyone wrong.
Take smoking for example.
I started that terrible habit a few months ago. I have had three women who I cherish nag me constantly. Finally, one of them said she would quit talking to me if I didn't quit. Well, I didn't and she did - quit talking to me that is.
That was it. I quit smoking then and there. It's only been four days, but I am feeling great about it. Valuable relationships in this short life are often few and far between. I was not about to jeopardize this one.
And it was just another difficult challenge, something I thrive on. So that's it with the smoking.
Besides, my next adventure is something I need to focus on.
Indy car racing has always excited me. Lo and behold, I found a Mario Andretti driving school right here in Chicagoland.
For Christmas I've asked my wife, Donna, to sign me up. After a few hours of instruction I'll take an Indy car out -- alone -- and see what kind of speed I can post. Of course I will be in constant radio contact with the crew chief who'll guide me through the turns.
After getting comfortable with a few laps under my belt, the pit crew will adjust the speed limiter and we will really see -- and feel -- what those guys do on Memorial Day weekend in Indianapolis.
So while today is my first day of semi-retirement, it really is only the beginning of another chapter in my already adventure filled life. I can hardly wait.

A special and appreciated friendship

2011-03-29T12:13:00.002-05:00

Did you ever have people come into your life unexpectedly and add a dimension that brings joy and laughter?

Let me tell you our experience.

Three years ago I was scheduled to have surgery for a total knee replacement. Now I have had numerous orthopedic surgeries and one thing I learned is that post-op physical therapy is nearly as important as the surgery itself.

Taking no chances, I decided to interview physical therapists. I went from one to another talking about rehab after surgery.

I went into Accelerated Rehab in Valparaiso, Indiana. I was greeted by a woman with an accent. I told Renata of my upcoming surgery.

Hardly before I could get the words out of my mouth she was handing me a stack of papers with pre-op exercises and the admonition that you must do these even if you come here or not.

We talked some more and she finished with "and my patients who have total knee replacement leave here with 130 degrees flexibility, and you are not going to change that!"

I thought, "what a b----, perfect!"

Renata turned out to be the most compassionate -- and skilled -- physical therapist that I have ever had the pleasure of being tortured by. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry" as she bent your leg beyond where it wanted to be bent.

She was, and is delightful. And since that time she and her husband, Art, who is also a physical therapist, and two daughters, have become very good friends with Donna and I. Actually, more family than friends.

At Christmas Renata called Donna excitedly to tell her how Art had given her a Pandora bracelet with charms as a gift. How nice, I thought. That was until Renata urged me to get one for Donna whose birthday was in January.

So I did. Since then the girls have exchanged umpteen charms, at the expense of Art and my bank accounts. They even exchanged Best Friend charms. And they enjoy, and it gives me great pleasure to see them both light up.

Now it's dresses.

Last week Renata calls, "Donna, I am ordering this dress, do you want one?"

"Sure, in black," Donna says. And off we go.

Whether it's popping in at one house or another, a movie, or dinner out or in, our home is always open to Art, Renata and children and we feel the same about theirs.

It's wonderful having Art and Renata and children as a part of our family.

Waiting, dreaming

2011-03-06T08:26:00.000-06:00

So, it's been a couple of weeks since I sent material to the casting folks of the TV series Criminal Minds. Haven't heard anything...yet.

That's not unusual. The entertainment industry works on its own schedule, and that's okay. Aspiring actors should never, ever set expectations --other than ones of rejection.

My philosophy is I try to start with rejection, and if something positive happens -- like a call from my agent -- then that's a small first step.

And I have realized that things happen when you least expect them...not just this business, but life in general.

Who would know that after 40+ as a journalist I would be entering my second year in the legal world? And, with the best and most successful injury attorney and law firm in Indiana and Illinois -- Kenneth J. Allen. March 11 is my anniversary with Kenneth J. Allen & Associates.

And who would have guessed that a family from Poland, who landed in Valparaiso nearly 20 years ago, would drop in our world (my wife Donna and me) and become very loved -- and valued -- friends.

Donna is trying to learn Polish -- she's up to four or five key phrases and words.

Having been born and raised in Chicago, obviously I was exposed to Polish families and some of its culture. But honestly wasn't very close to anyone of that ethnicity ... until three years ago when our new friends entered the picture.

So all of us are working on somewhere warm to travel. We all love hot weather. Everything from Belize, Mexico, California, Hawaii are on the table.

But, if and when we win the lottery is has been decided we are all moving to Bora Bora. Houses on stilts with glass floors, flowers, sun, and more. That's our joint dream. Hopefully all our kids will come, too. We''ll come back and visit Valparaiso.

In the meantime, we just enjoy life while I wait for that call for an acting role, and the others do their thing.

Nothing ventured, nothing ...

2011-02-20T07:31:00.000-06:00

Criminal Minds is probably my favorite television drama.

Why? Probably it has some to do with my intense interest in human behavior and psychology. I have always been keenly interested in what makes people do the things they do ... or don't so. It's fascinating to study people.

I've found one of the benefits is often predicting human behavior in advance, and ultimately avoiding pitfalls. It also gives me an edge in being able to easily manipulate situations. Normally that's not a good thing, but I always do it with best intentions. I rationalize that if you know you're manipulating, then it's okay.

I doubt the real professionals would agree, but it makes me feel better.

Back to Criminal Minds. It's a drama about the FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit, which of course studies human behavior and uses those skills to solve crimes.

For months I also told myself I ought to research casting for the show. Well I did. And I found the company that apparently does the casting for principal players. It's in LA.

So yesterday I put together a package -- all they want is a professional 8 x 10 and a resume stapled to the back of the photo. That's all any casting company wants actually.

I sent it off. I did, though, also send a demo video of an audition I did last year for a major motion picture to be released this fall -- Machine Gun Preacher, with Gerard Butler.

That would have been a great role, but apparently got cut before it ever made it to production. It was two scenes with Butler. Oh well.

Since then I have been rather blasé about whole acting thing. I have been so busy this past year that I have not had time to pursue this career. I promised I would change that this year.

Normally my agent puts me in for roles she thinks I should audition for. Recently there was an upcoming feature film role calling for a news reporter. She is submitting me.

I did this yesterday on my own, although I listed my agency -- BMG Talent / Chicago -- on my resume. Not to do so would be plain wrong. Hopefully they'll get a call for me.

And if they do, it'll be interesting to see what the role is. Psycho killer, local cop, who knows? When I mentioned it to my friend Art Pniak a couple of days ago he laughed -- "You, a psycho killer...?" It is pretty funny. We'll see. Likely I'll hear nothing, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Note to CN: Thanks for the comment. Send me your email address and I'll tell you what I have with regards to the real reporters in Public Enemies.

My two cents: Academy gets it right

2011-01-25T11:19:00.000-06:00

It's great to see the Oscar people got it right for a change.

The King's Speech deserves every one of its 12 nominations. The acting in the film is outstanding. Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush were spectacular and I am pleased the Academy has nominated them for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor, respectively.

And, The King's Speech was also nominated -- along with nine others -- for Best Film.

As I prepare to submit my votes for the Screen Actors Guild awards (deadline is noon Friday) to be broadcast on TV Sunday evening, I am delighted that the Oscar nominations are more in line with my choices than in previous years -- especially last year.

Anyone who has followed my writings knows I blasted the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences last year for snubbing "Public Enemies" and almost more importantly, Johnny Depp.

Of course again they overlooked Depp, who without a doubt is the most talented actor never to win an Oscar. The Academy needs a wakeup call on that one.

Anyway, there's been a lot of buzz about another film The Social Network. No mistake, it's good. But frankly it cannot hold a candle to The King's Speech.

Other than this, no hints on how I'm voting in other categories. Besides, I still have work to do on my picks.

The Times wins huge honor

2010-11-08T17:02:00.000-06:00

The TIMES of Northwest Indiana deserves congratulations after winning Lee Enterprises Inc. prestigious company "Enterprise of the Year" award announced last Friday.

You may think this is not a big deal, but it is. Take it from a former insider of The TIMES. This honor is coveted by every publisher and staff of all of the company's 50+ media companies around the country.

Now I'd like to take some credit, but I can't. I retired from The TIMES last year. But I am still proud to have spent 13 or 14 years at The Times.

Publisher Bill Masterson came to The TIMES from Rapid City, SD four or five years ago where he was also publisher. He deserves much -- if not most -- of the credit, even though he will give it to his staff.

Granted I'm deciding what he's likely to say before he says it. I have that right because I'm the one with the keyboard.

But he would be correct. While he built his team, he is the leader so all employees of The TIMES -- with Bill at the helm -- deserve to celebrate this great accomplishment.

So my hat is off to Bill and all those at The Times. Bravo!

Election is over, time to reconnect

2010-11-04T10:16:00.002-05:00

Wow, the election is over and the people have spoken. No -- they shouted, which in my mind is different than speaking.

Be that as it may, while I don't agree with some of the outcomes, others were dead on. For example, it was time for a major change at the Porter County (Indiana) commissioner level.

It was a huge accomplishment that Nancy Adams defeated Bob Harper. While I thought Nancy would make a good showing -- and county commissioner -- I actually thought Harper was unbeatable. Hats off to her and her campaign staff, led by my friend Deb Butterfield.

It was great to see Dave Lain get re-elected as sheriff; Chuck Conover as well.

But now that all the hoopla and voting is done, my hope is to reconnect with a couple of folks I hold in high regard -- Deb Butterfield in Valparaiso being one of them, and Reba Kennedy in San Antonio, Texas.

Deb of course has been busy for what seems like an eternity with the Adams campaign, and now her appointment to the Valparaiso City Council.

And my friend Reba, an attorney/writer in San Antonio also has been "out of pocket" -- as she likes to say -- for too long involved in a campaign down there.

I miss them both, although I saw Deb election day and we promised to get our little group together soon.

Candidly I haven't been very accessible myself, although it has nothing to do with the election. It seems everywhere I turn family and friends are getting caught up in some type of drama, some good, some bad -- mostly bad.

On the good side I'm going to be a grandfather again soon -- Nov. 17, if not earlier. Aubrey Addison will be born to my son Tony, and his wife Lindsey here in Valparaiso.

I won't go into the dark side.

And there are other friends who I haven't seen, or heard from. Those have nothing to do with the election.

Jim Fitzer, NIPSCO's Porter County rep, retired last fall. For a while I saw him fairly often. An avid fly fisherman I guess he's busy traveling to wherever the fish are biting. He did stop by my office a month or so ago to say hi. Not a word since.

If anyone sees, or hears from him, please tell me. Otherwise, he'll remain on the missing list.

Mark Maassel, Mike Bucko, Bill Alexa, are others. I know they're around. I guess maybe I need to get off my *** and do some reaching out.

My outreach has pretty much been limited to the Liar's Club Boys Breakfast at Mike's Premiere Grill on Saturday mornings. That meeting is a blast every week.

Why is it called "The Liar's Club?" Renata Pniak, wife of member Artur Pniak gave it that name. The membership list might be a clue. Cicco, McNulty, Frataccia, Rose ....

Anyway, qualifications to join "The Liar's Club" you ask? None. Just show up.

BTW Renata and Art are undoubtedly the best Physical Therapists in Valpo, Northwest Indiana and probably all of Chicagoland, at least in my experience. And I have had a lot of PT.

Where's Don been?

2010-10-20T10:17:00.005-05:00

It's been a while since I've written. Not that anyone has noticed except my close friends.

Frankly it's been incredibly busy here at Kenneth J. Allen & Associates, which is a good thing.

Squeezed in the past couple of months was a long overdue visit with our daughter and her family in Phoenix, AZ and then some R&R in Rancho Mirage, CA.

As my daughter reminded me we had not seen our grandchildren for well over a year. Point taken.

My acting career continues to languish, although my agent from BMG Talent called a couple of weeks ago to ask if I would audition for an Illinois Lottery commercial. I had just returned from vacation and was up to my eyeballs trying to catch up so I had to take a pass.

Those of you who remember my auditioning for the feature film "Machine Gun Preacher," production has wrapped. It's due out in 2012. You won't see me on the big screen.

I do keep track of "Machine Gun Preacher" on IMDb.com and it looks to me like they never cast the role I auditioned for. I assume that means it was cut out. If true, that would make me feel a little better about not being cast.

Oh, and I almost forgot. My good friend David Stamps is retiring at the end of this month as executive director of the Hoosier State Press Association. He and I have been friends for over 40 years.

There was a retirement party in French Lick weekend before last and I was asked to participate in a roast of David. Those of you who know me know that I avoid public speaking virtually at all costs. But I did it. Three of us -- Scott Schurz, VP of Schurz Communications; Henry Bird, VP of Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc.; and me. Randy List from Greencastle was the M.C.

The audience was composed of newspaper executives and publishers from around Indiana, with a couple of exceptions. Peers of David's from Illinois and Pennsylvania also attended. http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=42479&id=127999110544640

Anyone who has been to French Lick knows you can't get there. That is true. It was a very long drive from Northwest Indiana.

So that's what I've been up to and I think that brings us up to date. I'll try to write more often. No guarantees.

11 years since our Route 66 adventure

2010-07-13T11:59:00.000-05:00

Next week will be 11 years since my friend Jim Jackson and I set off on an adventure that came close to rivaling my "Public Enemies" experience.

He and I were given a brand new 1999 Corvette by the Chevrolet division of General Motors -- actually three of them -- to traverse the country on Historic Route 66.

The trip took 8 1/2 days during which we sent stories and photos each day to The Times so readers could follow along on our excellent adventure. And boy did they. To this day I periodically get asked "Aren't you the guy who drove Route 66?"

The answer is yes, plain and simple. I think I mentioned the trip in my piece about The Eagles band. We stood on the corner of Winslow, Arizona on July 23, 1999.

Why three Corvettes you ask? because GM didn't want us to run up the miles on just one. So, we traded cars in Oklahoma City, drove that car to Santa Monica, California. Then we traded cars again and drove back to Oklahoma City where we picked up our original Vette and came back to Chicago where Route 66 started.

I could write tons about our trip. But, if anyone stops at Cadillac Ranch in Texas, check out the axle of one of the planted cars where we wrote "The Last Summer Cruise of the Century."

Probably long gone, but who knows.

The Eagles: Among the best ever

2010-06-20T19:56:00.003-05:00

Great weekend!

My wife Donna and I, along with our friends from St. Charles, Illinois -- Jim and Christy Jackson -- went to The Eagles Summer 2010 Tour concert at Soldier Field in Chicago -- www.eaglesband.com .

It was an amazing experience. Believe it or not, both Keith Urban and the Dixie Chicks opened for The Eagles. Needless to say the crowd of 60,000 was really rocking by the time The Eagles took the stage.

Keith Urban played for a solid hour, and so did the Dixe Chicks. The Eagles brought the house down with hit song after hit song after hit song....for two hours straight.

Of course the occasion had special meaning for Jim and me. Almost 11 years ago he and I drove The Mother Road, as author John Steinbeck named Route 66. He and I left Jackson Street at Lake Shore Drive in a brand new 1999 Chevy Corvette. That's where Route 66 started, and went west for more than 2,400 miles.

Old-timers in Northwest Indiana might remember he and I chronicled the trip daily with stories and photos in The Times as we drove the historic highway that transected our nation from East to West.

Anyway, one of the more famous Eagles songs -- Take It Easy -- takes place in Winslow, Arizona, pretty much in the middle of nowhere.

But for Winslow, it is a very big deal. In fact there is a corner park dedicated to The Eagles and Take It Easy.

Well, Jim and I wore our "...Standing on the corner in Winslow, AZ..." t-shirts. Tons of people at the concert asked where we got the shirts. "Winslow, Arizona, of course." If you're ever in Winslow, check the bricks in the park. One of them has our names Jackson-Asher, within spitting distance of Don Henley's brick.

I digress. The Eagles were phenomenal. For guys who must be in their 60s, not a note was missed. These guys are without a doubt in the same class as The Beatles, or near the top of one of the best bands ever...yes, EVER!

Disagree? Too bad. You're wrong. Simple as that.

Last night will go down as the best nights of entertainment I've ever experienced. And I can now remove seeing and hearing The Eagles LIVE from my bucket list.

Times flies: A year since book was published

2010-06-19T05:49:00.007-05:00

It's coming up on a year since my book Public Enemies Confidential: Johnny Depp, Michael Mann and Me was published.

It's never been a best seller, nor will it ever be. Friends, family and scattered fans have bought the book. I haven't a clue to how many have sold because I do not get a penny from its sales.

What I do know is I've signed a number of these for people, and am happy to do so.

But I have especially signed more for a wonderful woman and fan in Denver, Colorado whom I have never met. Lynn Curran has asked me to sign my book which apparently she has given as gifts to many of her friends. I do not know that for sure, but she is a delightful woman.

In any case, my point is she put a comment/review of my book on www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/1214959 -- where the book can be ordered.

Don't misunderstand, I'm not shilling for the book because I initially wrote it initially for my use and I don't make anything on its sales. As an aside, both Johnny Depp and Michael Mann have the book, and I have a copy with both of their autographs.

I just thought I would share Lynn's commentary for folks who probably wouldn't otherwise see it; and because I am very proud of what she had to say. Thanks Lynn. So here it is:

LynnCurran says

Have you been searching for a book that covers in great detail a behind-the-scenes look at how a major motion picture is made? If so, then this is the book you must read.

The premise of the book covers the evolution of Don Asher (Reporter #1) fom being a potential extra to actually being cast as a principal player on a very important film. Of particular interest are the many personal insights and anecdotes of Don Asher during his interaction with the director of the film, Michael Mann.

The book includes many lovely photographs of the sets that were made as authentic as possible by Michael Mann. In most cases the scenes were actually filmed where the original historical drama took place. As a bonus, the reader will also find rare photos of Johnny Depp and Michael Mann during the making of the film.

Special mention goes to the last chapter of the book which includes rare photos and the back story behind the Chicago premiere of Public Enemies.

For fans of the motion picture or students of film history this is a must read and a great addition to any book lover's library.

Lynn E Curran

posted at 07:02PM Jun 12 PST

And the saga continues

2010-06-15T05:50:00.009-05:00

A couple of weeks ago --maybe three -- I received an email from my agent. This new feature film casting agency asked for a taped audition of me. I had a few days to get it done. Script was attached.

Lo and behold, it's not just an other feature film, but rather a Lionsgate movie, directed by Marc Forster who directed Quantum of Solace, the last James Bond film.

And who is the only other person to date who had been cast -- Gerard Butler. Since then Michelle Monaghan has been cast.

The title of the film -- Machine Gun Preacher. Anyone who wants to know more about the movie can research it on the internet at -- www.machinegunpreacher.org . Let me say, it's expected to be pretty big.

And the role they asked me to audition for is a contractor who has two scenes and dialog with Butler (Sam Childers) himself.

I take this very seriously. The script for my role has about 10-12 lines. I immediately called my acting coach, Matt Miller in Chicago -- www.mattmillerdirect.com . Of course he's in New York.

"Matt, I have this opportunity...." blah, blah. I told him the tape has to arrive by Thursday, and it's already Monday...only three days from now.

Matt tells me he'll be back Thursday night. I call my agent -- Dawn Gavin at BMG Model & Talent in Chicago -- and tell her the deal. Dawn is terrific! She says, "wait for Matt, do the tape and I'll get it there on Friday...it'll be fine."

Whew!.

I meet Matt Friday at TP&R Casting -- www.tprcasting.com -- in Chicago, one of the premier casting agencies in the Midwest. He's busy doing auditions for a national NFL commercial for Direct TV.

The commercial calls for a Catholic priest and the waiting room is filled with aging men dressed in dark suits, some with collars and hats (I forget what they are actually called).

Here I am in jeans and a powder blue sweater. Having studied my lines over the last three days my mind continues to go over, and over, and over them. I don't want to screw this up.

Matt takes a break from the audition and we go into a separate room filled with cameras and a computer. Matt is great. He's one of those people who can put you at ease effortlessly.

We start the audition, take after take. One scene at a time. "Do this, do that, move this way....." Finally Matt said "we got it. It's great." I was unbelievably relieved.

Matt says "Hey, while you're here, do you want to read for this commercial I'm doing?" I said "I thought you had to be 70 and have white hair. Plus, I hardly look like a priest in this outfit."

"No worries, they can color you hair. Come on let's do it," Matt says.

Sure. Why not. So while I'm there I do the audition for Direct TV. It was only one line of dialog, and very easy. But really, I would be stunned to get that role after seeing all the other guys who looked like the "real deal." But, it was good experience and for that I thank Matt.

Matt tells me he'll finish editing the film audition and get it to my my agent within a couple of hours. He seemed confident. "I think you have a shot; you have the look and everything."

But in this business the competition is extremely stiff, and I'm still a no name, rookie (as Matt politely reminds me).

So now it is past the original call-back date, but I still have hope. You never know. Things get delayed. There've only been a handful cast so far. My big concern is the movie starts shooting in mid-July in Michigan. The other location is South Africa, but my role will be here.

In any case, it was my first big film opportunity since I did Public Enemies. Because the scenes and lines are with Butler himself, I wondered if it was because I had lines with Johnny Depp that I even got called.

On a final note, the week before getting the email from my agent I noted my popularity on IMDb.com -- the internet movie database -- had skyrocketed from 160,000+ to 91,000. That doesn't happen. Remember, there are 2 or 3 million members on IMDb. I suspect they were checking me out.

Not to worry, I'm back down to my normal popularity -- about 170,000.

So if anyone from Machine Gun Preacher is listening (or reading this) I'd really like the role!

Thanks to Dawn Collins for a special patriotic effort

2010-06-03T19:13:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post to give kudos to a long-time Porter County business woman.

My hat goes off to Dawn Collins of Century 21 Executive Realty in Valparaiso, who year-after-year spends part of her Memorial Day weekend putting American flags along the parkways in town. Dawn doesn't do it alone. Usually her husband Dave, and possibly others, assist in this patriotic effort.

I know in Valparaiso's Keystone Commons the streets are lined with these flags next to mailboxes. She puts out about 1,000 of these to remind us of a day we often take for granted, but others have given their life for to protect our freedoms.

So my person of the week is Dawn Collins. Thank you, Dawn!

The search for alternatives to newspapers, and more importantly saving journalism

2010-04-27T08:48:00.002-05:00

I am halfway through a new book, published just a couple of months ago titled The Death and Life of American Journalism, by Robert W. McChesney and John Nichols.

McChesney is a professor in the Department of Communications at the University of Illinois. Nichols is The Nation's Washington correspondent. Both have authored several books.

McChesney and Nichols provide detailed insight into American journalism, past, present and possibilities for the future. As a veteran of that profession for more than four decades, while I am only halfway through the book I can personally attest that their assessments and conclusions are dead accurate.

Anyone who wonders how newspaper got into the mess they're in, and why they likely won't survive, should read it. As a professional print journalist I am saddened on one hand, but thrilled someone finally called into account the genesis of the decline of newspapers and journalism, which threatens our entire democracy and society.

So far the book is direct, and spares no words in describing the consequences for democracy without prudent, aggressive, quality journalism, all the while it is vanishing before our very eyes. It describes the thousands upon thousands of journalism jobs which have been sacrificed for the bottom line. This has particularly escalated in the past three or four years.

Look around. Where are the investigative journalism efforts that kept a watchful eye on government? Heck, you can't fault the journalists. Those who have survived have their hands full just trying produce enough "copy" to publish a daily newspaper, albeit growing ever smaller both in physical size and number of pages. It's everywhere: Coast to coast, border to border.

I doubt all newspapers will die. Some won't and will continue to make a decent profit. But at what cost?

While newspaper newsrooms have taken the biggest hit, even broadcast news has been hurt. But democracy never relied as much on broadcast journalism as print. Sound bites do not provide the depth of information.

Of course newspapers have evolved in large part into printed sound bites. You rarely, if ever, see stories that provide the depth of information that tell a complete story. Of course there are exceptions such as the NY Times and the Wall Street Journal.

Often they are once source articles, because that's all the reporter has the time and news space for. They don't have the time or news space to do more.

And speaking of space, there was a time when newspapers were happy to publish local, community news ... even school lunch menus. Parents could rely on the local paper to know what's going on in schools, in government, in their communities.

It used to be if you were an out-of-towner you could pick up the local newspaper and get a picture of the local community. No longer.

Is the internet the answer? Maybe. Although as the books points out, the proliferation of internet sites competing for advertising dollars has depressed revenue possibilities to the point they cannot sustain a truly professional, paid journalism staff...at least to the degree newspapers have until the last few years.

At the end of 2009 Smart Money -- an online product of the Wall Street Journal -- put newspapers on a Top 10 List. It was a list of 10 things NOT to buy in 2010. I'm not sure I'd go quite that far, but clearly without a salvation for journalism, so goes democracy.

Hopefully before the the book ends, McChesney and Nichols will suggest a business model for journalism that will be both profitable and provide a truly free and independent press like our Founding Fathers intended in order to preserve democracy.

Want to trade places with Joe? No thanks

2010-04-21T08:52:00.000-05:00

Let’s see, what dollar value would you put on your life?

Sounds preposterous that I would even ask such a question, right?

Life sometimes takes us down unexpected paths.

Sometimes it’s no longer even life. Sometimes it’s life with unpleasant limitations. Sometimes what happens pains our family members so badly that whatever the event, life will never be the same for you, or them.

And while we can feel sorry for – let’s say -- poor Joe, who’ll spend the rest of his life in pain and unable to work from a neck fracture he suffered in whatever accident, like being rear ended by a semi, what value can you place on that?

Joe had surgery to repair the fracture. Doctors put in a metal plate and some screws to hold it in place.

How about medical bills? Certainly they’ll be into the tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars.

Okay, so those are paid by the trucking company insurance. Maybe yes. Maybe no. In any case, the medical bills won’t end here and now. They’ll continue … for a long, long time.

And Joe stills wakes up every day having to swallow his pain medication just to make life bearable. The pills have side effects, so he has to take more medication to offset the pain meds.

Remember, Joe can’t work. His job as a – pick one, say an electrician – is long gone because he isn’t physically able to do it any more.

Now Joe doesn’t have a weekly paycheck. He has two children, both in elementary school, and a loving wife who stays at home tending to the family. One income, or at least there was one income. Now there’s no income.

Let’s see, there are groceries to buy, a mortgage or rent to pay, utilities, modest car payment and oh, yeah Joe doesn’t have medical insurance any more for himself or his family.

These expenses don’t even count renting a movie, or an occasional birthday party for one of the children, or life insurance for Joe in case something tragic happens to him.

Oh yeah, something tragic did happen to Joe. His wonderful life just turned into a mess thanks to the negligence of some trucking company and its driver.

And guess what? It will never change back to the way it was. Poor Joe and his family are doomed to a morass of debt, anxiety about the future, and oh yes, Joe is still in pain each and every day.

So now what is the value of Joe’s life? How much money would he have earned working another 25 or 30 years as an electrician? Maybe the house would be paid off by then, he’d have a nice nest egg upon which to retire and enjoy his remaining years and all would be good.

But it won’t be good. That’s all changed. Forever!

And yet the ordinary man or woman whose life is generally good cannot understand why Joe would hire a personal injury attorney, and ask for monetary damages to offset his income, his daily pain, his disability, his disfigurement, the suffering he and his family continue to endure day in and day out.

Joe and his family are good people. They’re not greedy. They’d go back to the way it was in a second. They can’t.

Yet at the trucking company it’s business as usual.

Joe’s only recourse is to hire that injury attorney, like Kenneth J. Allen, who has a passion for people who have been harmed, permanently and forever! So he and his wife do hire Mr. Allen.

A lawsuit is filed against the trucking company. The company’s insurance representatives put a laughable settlement on the table. No way does it cover anything close to Joe’s tangible and intangible losses.

The offer is rejected and a jury trial is convened. Thank goodness it’s a jury of Joe’s peers, because more often than not members of a jury can place themselves in Joe’s shoes. And historically in the case of Kenneth Allen, it’s been always.

The jury returns a verdict of say, $6 million in favor of Joe. Boy, that’s a lot of money we all think.

But would I trade places with Joe? No way. Please, there’s no way it’s worth $6 million to me to go through what Joe and his family have, and will – forever!

In reality, Joe won’t even receive $6 million. It’ll be whittled down with expenses he’ll have to incur because of his limitations, like maybe mowing his lawn like he once enjoyed. Now he must hire someone. Or psychological therapy he’ll need. After all, the mental toll this has taken on Joe is significant and finally hitting.

When there are outcries for tort reform, limits on damages a person can collect after being irreparably harmed, stop and think about poor Joe. Want to trade places?

Instead, how about stronger laws, enforcement and penalties for trucking company safety violations.

Explore cost saving ideas, like license bureau sites

2010-04-12T10:18:00.001-05:00

A friend -- Mike Paunovich -- recently mentioned to me something that I can't seem to get out of my mind. Maybe writing about will do it.

He was talking about government efficiency, and ways state government could, and should, save money. One of his suggestions -- which made complete sense to me -- is leasing space from counties or municipalities to house Indiana license bureaus.

Why not, I asked myself? After all I suspect many, if not most, are paying pretty good dough for space in office buildings and/or strip centers such as Valparaiso where it is located south of US30 in a small business retail center.

While I don't have any idea what the state is paying for that space, I can only guess it's not cheap. Who has ever heard of a government agency getting a bargain on virtually anything?

Now I know everyone who works in a government building will cry "We're already too crowded...we don't have any space."

Maybe that's true. But surely throughout the 92 Indiana counties there must be opportunities for this kind of partnership. And maybe there are some examples of this being done, of which I am not aware. If so, congratulations.

And maybe there are other areas to look for cost savings in government. For example, road maintenance. Most cities and towns do their own, separate from county highway departments. Are there opportunities --even at a minimum level -- to contract with each other for certain services that wouldn't impact public safety?

Something to think about. After all, in these tight times saving a buck puts you a dollar ahead.

Easter, celebration and family

2010-04-01T08:57:00.000-05:00

Today is Holy Thursday. I was thinking on the way to work about this week, and it's importance to those of us in the Christian faith.

While I have physically left the Catholic Church, it has really never has left me.

My wife and I attend New Song in downtown Valparaiso- a branch of the First United Methodist Church. She is not Roman Catholic, but is a devout Christian.

Were it not for New Song Pastor Kurt Nichols and all of the others who make the Sunday service always meaningful and relevant, I might be swayed to return to the Catholic Church. I often miss it.

Of course the television advertising campaign recently for "Catholics Come Home" was a powerful message to me. However, Pastor Nichols has my devotion, loyalty and appreciation. I know he has my wife Donna's, as well.

So as we prepare to celebrate The Resurrection, and the deep meaning behind what occurred more than 2000 years ago, I am also reminded of our own mortality.

Growing up the fear of dying was terrifying for me. My childhood was far from Ozzie and Harriet -- very far. Now, as I head towards what are surely the last stages of my life, I am no longer afraid. I know I'm in good hands -- God's hands. How much more comforting can it be?

Now there are only two things that scare me -- public speaking, and for some unexplained reason, talking about religion.

I think the latter may stem from an expectation I have on myself to know more about the Christian faith than I actually do, and a fear of being exposed. That does not, however, have any bearing on my deep faith in the Lord.

This Sunday -- Easter -- I am positive it will again be a wonderful experience at New Song. Afterward Donna and I will return home and have our own Easter. We may or may not talk about how we miss family. Again, as we get older our children have their own families and obligations.

I'll quietly remember Easters when my Aunt Jane and Uncle Tom, who raised me for a good part of my life, would cook a leg of lamb. Honestly, I didn't like lamb. But it wasn't about the food. It was about family, and the celebration Easter represents.

I miss that. I suspect Donna will miss her family and experiences as well.

Valparaiso, Portage lucky to have good news sites

2010-03-25T08:24:00.001-05:00

Before I begin this piece I want to make sure it is clearly understood that I have no official, or unofficial, position or role with ValpoLife, or PortageLife.

I have been accused by some of writing for ValpoLife. I do not. I have my own blog site -- www.donaldasher.blogspot.com -- where my thoughts and musings first appear.

ValpoLife Chief Chris Mahlmann, my good friend, asked permission to re-post my blogs on his site. I said yes. Sometime he and I may work together. Presently we do not.

That said, here goes.

As a journalist for more than four decades it was always a struggle to reach deep into a community to REALLY share with readers all of the good happenings taking place in a neighborhood, or down the block, or even next door.

It wasn't the newspaper's fault. No one realizes the labor intensiveness -- translate cost - of gathering news in the first place. Add to that bad news generally trumped good news mainly because -- sorry folks -- it has a higher readership.

Make no mistake. I have the greatest amount of respect for quality journalism. It is foundational for democracy. If it goes away, our liberties are likely to follow.

But that doesn't address what Chris Mahlmann is trying to do with his "good news only, please" internet site. He'll be the first to admit it's not true journalism.

What it is is a reflection -- a mirror -- of our community from a perspective newspapers haven't been able to accomplish. Maybe they will sometime, but not yet.

Sure, pick-up the newspaper and more often that not it's news about this crime, that accident, a burglary, etc. You get the point. And it's good reading. But how many of us find that other perspective to the degree Chris has been able to compile on his site?

It's refreshing to watch that video of Stu McMillan from Task Force Tips. Or see tons of photos of the small children running in the Popcorn festival race. Those people are usually our neighbors. Probably not the guy who was arrested for battery, or DUI.

And yes, the Times of Northwest Indiana does its share of fostering journalism efforts for the betterment of Northwest Indiana and its communities. As I've said over and over during my 40+ years in the business, a newspaper has a responsibility to be a catalyst for positive change. To its credit The Times has done that many, many times. I've been fortunate to have been a part of a lot of those projects.

What's missing is the depth of community news coverage, which is the foundation of Mahlmann's vision. Not competing with the newspapers.

And really, ValpoLife doesn't not have the vitally important role in society that journalism does. It is not big competition to journalism, as some in the newspaper business believe.

Sure it needs money to survive. What business doesn't? But it also needs the help of people in our community. Help in the context of contributing information and photos you'd like to see published on ValpoLife.com. Send it also to the local newspapers.

As a member of this community, I for one am proud that we have ValpoLife. And I hope that the people of Portage will embrace the newly launched PortageLife. I suspect they will.

And for the flack I'm going to get for daring to write this piece, having spent four decades as a journalist I can't help but write the truth, at least as I see it.

Recently I was told the newspaper business made me. To that I say, I believe it's the other way around. I helped make the newspaper business through quality journalism and by always practicing these simple principles --honesty, integrity and always tell the truth. I apologize if this sounds arrogant. I don't mean it to be.

One bright spot: The check is coming

2010-03-23T08:36:00.001-05:00

So at my Screen Actors Guild orientation a couple of years ago SAG staff made a huge point of telling us that 95 percent of its membership is unemployed...at least in the entertainment business.

At the time I thought, oh please they must be the dregs. How hard can it be to once in a while get a commercial, or a print photo job? Now two years later here I am, a one role wonder.

Of course the one role in Michael Mann's "Public Enemies" was very significant and prestigious by industry standards, although my friends would dispute that. Right Fred (McNulty), Fred (Cicco), Jim (Fitzer) and others?

Now how many people have a chance to work with Johnny Depp, face to face? I rest my case.

And while it's difficult to get a talent agent to represent you (they only get paid if they find you work), I'm fortunate enough to have two Chicago agents.

Periodically I'll get a call asking if I can come to Chicago for an audition for this or that commercial, or photo shoot. Generally I say okay. One was for Coors beer, another Lipitor, one for a secret cancer drug, U.S. Cellular. You get the point.

And while they are fairly sparse, I haven't landed a single role. Every time I show up to an audition, or photo shoot, the place is packed. I guess it represents those 95 percent unemployed.

So on a lark recently I decided to branch out. I sent p-hotos and a resume to three of the largest talent agencies in Los Angeles -- Creative Artists Agency, William Morris, and United Talent Agency. United represents Johnny Depp.

I'd love to say they have all responded. None have.

However, on my iMDB.com listing -- Donald G. Asher -- I noticed my popularity rating last week went up 36 percent. That's almost unheard of and the only thing I can relate that to is maybe -- just maybe -- one of those agencies was checking me out.

This week I dropped 10 percent.

So we'll see. The odds are overwhelmingly against me, or anyone for that matter. Generally they grab only big names.

In the meantime, it's been nearly four months since the release of the "Public Enemies" DVD. That's important to me because I get residuals (royalties) on revenue generated from PE once it leaves the theater and is released to DVD, cable TV, etc. And I -- or my heirs -- get them forever, as long as the film makes money.

Don't start lining up for loans just yet. I tell friends I'd be surprised if I'll be able to buy a premium six pack of beer with the checks. However, I'm anxious to see the first one because the movie has made another almost $30 million in DVD sales since it's release. And supposedly the check should arrive in April, maybe May.

I'll keep you posted.

Advocates for safety deserve praise

2010-03-16T10:11:00.000-05:00

Safety should always come first in the workplace.

But yet day in and day out we read or hear about workers being severely injured or killed while working.

Today was another unfortunate example of workplace dangers. This time it was on the Borman Expressway ( I-80/94 ) when a construction worker for Walsh Construction from Gary was hit and killed in a construction zone by a car at 1:30 in the morning.

The driver of the vehicle fled, and police are searching for him this morning.

Unfortunately most of us will forget about this in a day or so. We’ll feel sad for the victim’s family for a minute or two.

It won’t be long before we’ll read or hear about another worker killed in a tragic workplace accident. It could be a highway worker, such as this morning, or a steelworker, or a carpenter, or electrician, or just about anyone who has a job doing anything.

The only ones not at risk of workplace injury are people who are unemployed. Even office workers face some risk, albeit probably minimal.

And yet we also read or hear about jury verdicts to some poor soul who was somehow severely and permanently injured, or killed, in a workplace accident. Often these verdicts are in the millions of dollars. Often the public is outraged at the amounts of damages jury award to victims and/or their families. Unless of course it’s you, or your family member.

More often than not that perception spills over into negative perceptions of personal injury attorneys. They’re called ambulance chasers by some.

The connection people fail to make is that without personal injury attorneys, large penalties in the form of jury verdicts in the millions, companies would have no incentive to make a safer workplace.

For example, why should a company spend $5,000 or $10,000 for a railing around a catwalk? Sure, it would make it safer but they have a good safety record and no OSHA violations.

Boom! Next thing you know your husband, or father, or son just slipped and fell 30 feet and broken several bones. Or worse. Maybe paralyzed, or even killed.

What now?

One thing I’ve learned since my time working with Kenneth J. Allen is that a personal injury law practice is not about how much money can an attorney make, but rather incentivizing employers to routinely scrutinize its practices and equipment from a safety standpoint.

Without those PI attorneys out there to advocate for workers and safer workplaces, that poor soul who just fell 30 feet has little, if any recourse short of worker’s compensation.

So the next time you read or hear about a $10 million or $20 million injury verdict, think about the company that may have been negligent about workers’ safety, and not about that PI attorney, who rightfully should be commended not dissimilar to a physician who just saved the life of someone.

Reporter #1 to Sister-in-Law

2010-03-15T19:20:00.000-05:00

Shortly before the Academy Awards show I wrote about what I considered an injustice that "Public Enemies" was not acknowledged by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for anything.

Not that PE was the best of the year. It wasn't. But it certainly was better than others in some categories. How about costumes, actor, cinematography, music?

So I mentioned this at dinner with my brother-in-law and sister-in-law Saturday night at Maggiano's Little Italy in Schaumburg, Illinois.

My sister-in-law curtly says "Don, it was a flop," and continues with dinner. Frankly, I was a little taken aback but reminded her that it made more than $200 million worldwide since its release last summer, hardly a flop.

I'd be less than honest if the comment didn't bother me. However, we were being treated to dinner so I kept quiet.

The IMDB.com message board has ripped "Public Enemies" to shreds. Almost like a hobby for some folks. Yet the IMDb.com rating is 7.2 on a scale of 1-10 with over 60,000 votes. Fairly good, I'd say.

It's surprising the response this film has received. You either love it, or hate it. No in-between. Honestly, I was luke-warm the first time I saw it at the Chicago premiere. The second time was much, much better.

It wasn't a smashing hit, I think in part because it wasn't your typical film and at points lacked continuity. While its run time was 2:20+, long for a feature film, given another 15 minutes I think Michael Mann would have produced and directed a classic.

Probably people would have complained it was too long.

But as a retired journalist, a good read is a good read no matter its length. I doubt it's any different in the film industry.

Still, "Public Enemies" has more than doubled the investment it took to make it. I'll take that ROI (return on investment) any time, especially in this tough economy.

The film which took home the Oscar for Best Film -- The Hurt Locker -- has made a tad over $18 million worldwide as of March 5.* "Public Enemies" earnings is over $210 million. Both were released about the same time.

So to my sister-in-law -- her initials are SS -- take that!

And I would encourage anyone who wants to chime in on this to feel free. I promise to forward any comments -- pro or con -- to SS.

And I still think Johnny Depp should have been nominated for Best Actor.

*www.the-numbers.com/movies/2009/HURTL.php

Today is my anniversary with law firm

2010-03-11T13:06:00.002-06:00

Today is my one-year anniversary with Kenneth J. Allen & Associates in Northwest Indiana and Chicago.

Having spent more than 40 years as a journalist/editor in the newspaper business, I was somewhat acquainted with the legal profession having served on the Illinois State Bar Association media law committee, and the Indiana Judicial Center media sub-committee of its Community Relations Committee.

I was also named by Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Randall Shepard to an advisory position of the state’s “Fire Brigade” charged with mediating potentially explosive disputes between the courts and the press.

And of course during my somewhat lengthy career I was involved in numerous First Amendment legal cases, and Freedom of Information issues and was chairman of the Illinois Associated Press Editors FOI committee.

That aside, now working with unquestionably Indiana’s premier injury attorney Kenneth J. Allen, I am getting the flavor of the driving force behind those words that KJAA firm uses: Passion, Commitment, Excellence.

Until I began working at Kenneth J. Allen & Associates, I didn’t realize the parallels between journalism and this law firm. Both subscribe to, and practice, those basic tenants with exuberance.

While this firm is quite selective in the cases it takes – only one in about 10 – once it says yes Mr. Allen and his firm’s talented attorneys tackle each case as a group, meeting twice each week to review, strategize and decide a course of action. Mr. Allen welcomes spirited debate during these early morning – very early – regular meetings.

I’ve had the honor of attending on more than one occasion to present information on particular cases. Watching six or seven attorneys kick around specifics on a case is very impressive.

Obviously, the model works. Anyone who doubts it only has to check out his website at kenallenlaw.com and review news clips, press conference videos, or other volumes of information about the firm.

So, not surprisingly I suppose, I feel right at home working on those fundamental issues that journalism and law have in common – righting wrongs. The ordinary man – or woman – sometimes needs an advocate to fight for justice. So the mission for the press, and KJAA is the same.

I am at home working for the best, just as I was as a journalist. Being second best just doesn’t cut it.

Maybe that should be Kenneth J. Allen & Associates new motto.

Good people, good friends

2010-03-09T08:28:00.000-06:00

I woke up this morning reflecting on how lucky I am to have so many good friends.

I don't mean to belabor the point about friendship because I've written about it a few times. but this morning for some reason it took on a special importance. Nothing in particular.

For the point I want to try and make I will exclude family, for often family members have completely different sets of dynamics. Friendship has its own.

As I age friendship takes on a much more prominent role in my life.

At the end of the day, it's not about how much money one has, how many toys, how much power or authority, but rather how your treat your fellow man.

I am really fortunate to be blessed with a number of people whom I consider close friends. Like Fred McNulty, Fred Cicco, Jim Fitzer, Ric Frataccia, Dave Rose, Chris Mahlmann, and I could go on and on. The Saturday morning breakfast club in Valparaiso is a good example of friendship at its most basic level.

Fred Cicco wrote about this group in a blog a few weeks ago. Each week the boys get together, have some laughs, talk about serious issues, and when it adjourns I personally feel much better going into the weekend having spent this time with my friends.

But my friendships transcend that group. My neighbors, Al and Jannice Naramore are like family. I don't care what the request, Al or Jannice is there. Or Kenneth Allen, who gave me a job.

And then there's Renata and Artur Pniak. Both physical therapists. They immigrated here from Poland some years ago. I was lucky enough to find Renata at Accelerated Rehabilitation following knee replacement surgery. While she is an outstanding PT, both she and her husband Art are now, I'm proud to say, good friends.

They are quality, decent, people without an agenda other than to be kind, compassionate and folks who appreciate life, friends and family.

Everything happens for a reason. I am attracted to these kind of people...for that I and thankful. And all the above mentioned, and many, many more of my friends fall into that category. One in particular is in Lake County.

And while I see these people fairly often as we all live in Valparaiso, Indiana, there are lots of others who are my friends because they are good, decent people. Like Jack and Andrea Palmer.

I speak to Jack maybe twice year, yet he's like a brother to me. For those who know Jack from his days in Valpo, they know he has been blessed. But he's the same, good, decent person.

Or my one and only high school friend from our days at Proviso West High School near Chicago. Mart Loveall who lives in Terre Haute, Indiana, who is a retired electrician. I talk to him a couple of times a month.

Or David Stamps, who I wrote about recently. Or Jim Jackson, the best man at my wedding nearly 17 years ago. He lives in St. Charles, Illinois.

I probably have as many female friends. Deb Butterfield, Pat Puffer, Reba Kennedy in San Antonio, and more. My only requirement is that they are good, decent, compassionate people. I have no tolerance for others.

Part of my reflection this morning is the importance of nurturing friendships. Therapists use this analogy when talking about marriage, but the same can be said of friendships - they need nurturing. Maybe not daily, or even monthly, but some periodic connection is a must, like water and fertilizer in a garden.

Without it, those friendships can wither and die.

So I look forward to this Saturday morning. I won't get all mushy, but in my mind I will be thinking how fortunate I am. I hope they feel the same.

Fast forward through the Oscars

2010-03-05T09:24:00.000-06:00

A couple of people asked me this week if I have any special plans for the Oscars on Sunday.

Well, if fact yes I do. I'm going to do the same thing to the Oscars that they did to "Public Enemies," ignore it.

I'm sure this sounds like sour grapes, and maybe it is. But I've got to be honest, I put the Academy Awards in the same category as American Idol. Not always the best win, or are even nominated.

Please don't get me wrong, I'm not saying PE was the best movie of the year, or maybe even close to it. It had stiff competition, for sure.

"Avatar" is excellent, although it should have a category of its own. "Inglorious Basterds" was also excellent. As were several others.

But compare "Up In the Air" with "Public Enemies" and PE wins hands down. "Up In the Air" is medicore, at best. It's just an average film. Nothing special.

And I have nothing against George Clooney, in fact I'm told his aunt Rosemary Clooney, frequented my father's -- Benny Asher -- cocktail lounge "Tin Pan Alley" on Oak Street in Chicago during the 1940s, along with numerous other celebrities.

However, there is no way Clooney's performance in "Up In the Air" can compare to that of Johnny Depp in PE. Sorry. I may be biased, but this is my blog so I'm entitled.

Okay, exclude Depp's PE performance, Hell, he should have won an Oscar a long time ago. His range of acting skills transcends anyone on the big screen today. I can hardly wait to see him as the Mad Hatter in "Alice and Wonderland," which opens today.

No, my vision of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences members who vote on the Oscars are a bunch of old cronies -- or maybe even young cronies -- paying off political debts for votes, just like Illinois politics.

It's obvious the fact that "Public Enemies" was selected as the centerpiece film for the Los Angeles film festival, or that Johnny Depp was voted best actor by the People Choice Awards for his role in PE, makes no difference to the cronies.

Clearly the highlight of the evening will be Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin. Maybe I'll DVR it and fast forward everything but those two.

In the meantime, Michael Mann should at least be acknowledged for his penchant for authenticity and creativity. To his credit, Mann marches to his own beat. That probably doesn't sit well with the LA/NY pack.

And somewhere along the line I'm confident Depp will be recognized by the Academy for his amazing versatility and acting skills.

A difficult decision

2010-03-03T19:02:00.000-06:00

Today I had to finally make a tough decision. As those of you who know me, I've had a lot of tough decisions to make this past year. In fact, in some respects they are all connected.

My good friend of more than 40 years -- David M. Stamps -- will be inducted into the Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame in April. He and I grew up together in the world of journalism.

Back in 1969 he and I worked at this twice weekly newspaper chain in Elmhurst, Illinois. Both fresh of out the military, we didn't know what we didn't know. Life can be cruel in its lessons, but it wasn't long before we learned. It was either that, or not survive.

Both of us spent a fairly short time with that newspaper chain. He left to become a bureau chief of a daily newspaper. That was huge for us in the minor leagues. It wasn't long before he was promoted. My phone rang. "Don, it's David." I waited. "This is the greatest place in the world to work and I want you to come here with me."

I did. It was 1970. Between 1970 and the time I left journalism, which was last Fall, he and I were connected professionally and personally, as close as two friends could be. As we both moved around in the newspaper business, somehow we were always close geographically and personally.

When he and I get together we share stories no one would believe. But they are true. Like the time he got a call from the White House asking him, as president of the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association, to host a press conference for President Gerald Ford. He did. And I was lucky enough to tag along.

Or the Red Grange stories -- the Galloping Ghost as oldtimers will remember. Dave has memories of sharing a bottle of whiskey with good, old Red. In fact, the bottle itself was a commemorative special edition in honor of him. Grange could give a crap. As Dave tells it, when the bottle was empty Grange tossed it like nothing into the trash can.

There are other stories aplenty that we can share during our years growing up in journalism. And we really did grow up, thankfully. And his wonderful wife, Sandy, was so kind and tolerant of our antics -- although she stills winches when David's 30th birthday party come up for discussion. Hmmmm.

Anyway, I digress.

David followed me to Indiana not long after I arrived. Although he went further South -- to Indianapolis -- where he spent the next 14 years as the Executive Director of the Hoosier State Press Association.

We worked together on a number of major projects in Indiana, some of which changed state law.

I was the Editor in Waukegan, Illinois. He was the Publisher in Aurora, Illinois. I came to Indiana from Illinois in late 1995.

When I received a call from Julie Inskeep last Fall, Publisher of the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette asking me to write a nomination letter to include David into the Indiana Hall of Fame, I was truly honored and jumped on the opportunity.

I wrote from my heart, as friends do. In my world friendship ALWAYS trumps business, or it isn't friendship.
He ended up having nearly 20 letters of nomination from associates and colleagues in the business.

And to my point. Having been voted into the Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame, I was honored and humbled to receive a call from David asking me to give his introduction at the induction ceremonies. That was late last year. It's weighed on me ever since.

Today I decided I would not do it. Not because of anything to do with David. Our friendship is solid as a rock. But rather other factors that would put us -- more me than him -- into an awkward position. Like Grange, he could give a crap. Friendship trumps business.

It was gut-wrenching to say no. I'm still not sure it was the correct decision, but what I do know is his induction will be spared any possible awkwardness, and that's the most important. Like he said today when I told him, "Hell what's five minutes, we've had 40 years." And we're still going. He understood.

Yes David, I will be there in spirit. I am proud to be your friend. Congratulations friend.

Short-lived television future

2010-01-07T09:21:00.002-06:00

So the other day my friend Reba Kennedy, a San Antonio attorney and writer, fires off an email to me about this posting she came across on the web.

While it was anonymous, it was a call for a Lead Investigator for a TV series, with a somewhat general geographic area of N, which I assume meant North. Looking outside today, there's no question about the geography here in Valparaiso, IN, south of Chicago as the snow continues to pour down.

The posting read:

We're looking for a lead investigator (or team) for a new History Channel
series that decodes American symbology, iconography, explores little known
and hotly debated conspiracies and some of the world's greatest mysteries.
We need somebody that is charismatic, smart, curious, maybe a little bit
funny, and rugged would be great. He/she should have a strong working
knowledge of history, an open mind and great interview skills. Think
Stephen Colbert meets Mike Rowe.

It's late in the afternoon Jan. 5th and Reba follows up her email with an urgent call. "I just sent you an email about something that's right up your alley."

"Gee, okay," I said not really picking up the sense of urgency.

"No, you need to look at it right now and respond within the next half-hour," she told me. "It was just posted and the deadline is soon and you've got everything they're looking for."

So I open the email, read it and conclude that if nothing else, I'm really curious about the origin of the casting call.

I quickly ripped off a response to the post, giving my years in journalism, work in the legal field, and my sputtering acting career with one major film credit: Public Enemies.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained. And, it is in line with my new mental philosophy of challenging fear and being open and ready to embrace new opportunities -- re-careering is the new buzzword.

Within the hour I had a response from them to email a photo to them and go to their website. Nothing else.

So, I sent the photo and clicked on the site. It gave some information about the production company, which has produced a number of interesting shows like:

JOCKEYS and HOT GIRLS IN SCARY PLACES ; currently on air PARANORMAL STATE and THE LOST TAPES; past credits include LAGUNA BEACH: THE REAL ORANGE COUNTY, NEWPORT HARBOR: THE REAL ORANGE COUNTY, NASHVILLE, ROLLERGIRLS, GREAT AMERICAN CHRISTMAS, PARADISE CITY, THE FASHIONISTA DIARIES, KARAOKE SUPERSTARS, PAGEANT MOMS UNLEASHED, NIGHTCLUB CONFESSIONS and HAMPTON HIGH REVEALED.

At least it seemed legitimate. And while I have the investigative skills, and some of the other assets they asked for, I really know absolutely nothing about symbology....but I could learn.

Also on the website was a questionnaire and they asked for a two-minute video of me sharing why I wanted this role.

Okay. That's easy.

I waited until last night to do the video. You had to agree to their Contract Terms, which I opened and began to read before doing the video.

About two paragraphs in I read -- "this is a non-guild production...." As a member of the Screen Actors Guild that's a huge no-no. SAG Rule # 1, no non-union work, period! So, my short-lived vision of me on television came to an end as quickly as it began.

There was no way I was going to jeopardize my SAG membership, especially while waiting for almost a half-dozen DVDs from studios lobbying for SAG Award votes. Some have not even been released on DVD yet.

And in my prior blog I talked about voting for movies I haven't seen. Well, just like last year SAG members are offered free tickets to screen movies still in the theater which are up for awards. That is unless you get a DVD and screen it in the comfort of your own home.

Voting for the SAG Awards

2010-01-04T08:29:00.001-06:00

One of the benefits of being a Screen Actors Guild member is I get to vote for the SAG Awards. It's a rather neat experience.

In Saturday's mail at home was the official ballot, due Jan. 21, 2010. The 16th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards are Saturday, Jan. 23 and is broadcast on TNT.

Last year was my first time voting. Movie studios lobby for their films. For example last year I received a DVD in the mail of The Dark Knight from Warner Bros. Plus last year, most studios provided you a free ticket to see the movie in your local theater "For Your Consideration" just for the asking." Every advertisement for the awards in the SAG publications, every letter, every promotional piece contains the phrase "For Your Consideration."

Last year my wife and I took them up on the offer and went to see.....geez, I can't remember. What I can remember is the ticket person needing to call the manager of the theater over to look at the voucher I had printed off from the SAG website for free admission -- just one.

This year I haven't received any DVDs, or gone to the SAG site to see if the offer stands this year, which I assume it does. I suspect winning major awards means a lot to the bottom line of the film studios.

Many people ask me if I'm a member of SAG. When I answer "yes" they're often surprised. I show them my membership card.

You see, you have to qualify to join the Screen Actors Guild. Now, I'm not a SAG membership expert but I do know to join you need to have at least one speaking line in a SAG, or union, movie production. I have three in "Public Enemies."

I'm not exactly sure of the criteria, but I believe extras -- or background actors -- who do not have a speaking role credit can join if they have so X number extra parts. I don't know what that number is.

Assuming you meet the SAG membership criteria, there's a fairly hefty one-time initiation fee. Then the annual dues are very modest, and they take a small percentage of your earnings made through acting. My compensation for the role in "Public Enemies" more than paid for the initiation, so I thought "Why not?"

Of course they hit me for a percentage of my movie earnings, too.

Did I have to join? No. Under the Taft-Hartley laws, a person is exempt from joining the union -- SAG --for one movie or commercial production. After that you must join to do any other union work.

Since I didn't know what doors "Public Enemies" might open, I thought joining might be "an investment." Not yet, although I have two agents and have auditioned for three national commercials (that'll be another blog).

So back to the topic at hand. Somehow I need to figure out how to preview some, if not most, of the SAG Award nominated movies. Otherwise, I'll feel guilty being an uninformed voter. I might have to rely some on movie reviewers whom I respect.

Of course those of you who live in Porter County, Indiana know what I'm talking about when I mentioned "uninformed voters." However, it doesn't seem to bother them to go to the polls not having a clue (another blog topic).

So if anyone out there has any suggestions on movies to vote for, please let me know. I'm all ears.

Understanding human behavior

2009-12-01T18:48:00.001-06:00

Recently I blogged about changing careers. Well, another opportunity has surfaced. Not that I'm necessarily going to pursue this, but human psychology and behavior has always fascinated me. It really can be quite predictable, especially after more than 40 years as a journalist.

Yesterday I spent some time in court observing jury selection, watching the judge, watching the attorneys, and most importantly watching the potential jurors. It wasn't the first time trying to get into the minds of those few people doing their civic duty purely through observation.

It may have struck a cord. I have always been told I read people well. While I've never used that skill to make a living, I have had to use it for survival ever since I was a child. I guess that many years of practice makes you pretty good at picking up subtle signs, body language, hand and mouth movements, etc.

So now I have about 15 books on selecting juries. And last night talking to an attorney friend in San Antonio she asked me a question. Pick three animals you'd like to be and give reasons why. After I went through the exercise she explained how you can tell the type of person by the animals they've chosen, and why. I picked a jaguar, eagle and clydesdale horse. She explained what that meant. You figure it out.

The provider of those books has given me the order in which to read them. There will be a test, he said. So I guess I better get to my homework.

More on Public Enemies

2009-12-01T18:33:00.001-06:00

Well, it's an interesting week....and it's only Tuesday.

On Sunday while watching the Indianapolis Colts game we were surprised by commercial for the "Public Enemies" DVD being released Dec. 8th, a week from today.

Now the commercial wasn't necessarily surprising, but an image of me and one of my lines starting the TV spot was. In fact, I thought I heard myself, but by the time I looked at the TV I was gone. After waiting, and waiting for a repeat, a second PE commercial came on. This time I was no where to be found.

But, a few friends saw the first one and that's all that counts. And honestly, after having seen the film three times, the promo commercials and trailers playing from March through the movie opening on July 1, I really am kind of tired of seeing and hearing myself. Many won't believe it, but it's true.

It's still an experience I will always be grateful for, and memories will remain with me forever.

I shared those experiences in a book, which is no longer in print. "Public Enemies Confidential: Johnny Depp, Michael Mann and Me" chronicled my five days of filmdom working on PE, in three states -- Columbus, Wisconsin, Crown Point, Indiana, and Chicago.

Sometime this week I hope to make arrangements to post the book, with photos from retired Chicago Tribune Photographer Robert Hollingsworth Jr., somewhere online. My friend Bob Hollingsworth played Hoover Reporter #1 in the movie.

Not that it's a literary masterpiece because it isn't, but what it does do is give a view of film-making from this rookie actor's perspective. Stay tuned.

Universal Pictures Public Enemies screening

2009-11-20T09:02:00.000-06:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I attended the special screening last night in Chicago of "Public Enemies" hosted by Universal Pictures.

My guest was Jason DeWitt, movie buff and IT director at Kenneth J. Allen & Associates. The setting was the Lake Street Screening Room, an mini-theater of about 50 seats, 46 of which were unoccupied. You had to be a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Screen Actors Guild, or a few other industry organizations to be invited.

As the movie industry moves into its awards season, studios are beginning lobbying efforts to garner votes. Universal is pushing four films, including Public Enemies. That's why the special screening. There are two in Chicago, and many, many more in LA.

I suppose including Chicago on the PE screening locations was maybe more out of courtesy than anything, seeing as how Public Enemies was shot mostly in Wisconsin and Illinois, and a few days in Indiana. Because I am a member of the Screen Actors Guild, I do get to vote on the SAG awards.

Anyway, there were only four of us in the theater. Prior to running the film I spoke to the projectionist and asked about the sound. Anyone reading about Public Enemies in blogs or message boards surely have noted the complaints about the sound, and not being able the hear some dialogue.

The Lake Street Screening Room projectionist said, it not the film it's usually theaters. There is a setting for Dolby and often theaters set the volume less than what's called for...and even when they do set it correctly often it's a hair below what it should be, he said.

Now when I attended the Chicago premiere of the film, the sound was perfect. When I saw it in the local theater, it was barely audible.

Last night the sound again was perfect, so I must assume the guy knows what he's talking about.

Seeing the film for the third time was not at all boring. Every time I pick up something new. And I've got to tell you, if Johnny Depp is not at least nominated for an Oscar for best actor then I am convinced the Oscars are a sham.

His range and character development surpass any current actor, in my opinion. And that's not because I have a scene with him in PE. Just look at the characters he's played past and present.

So we'll see soon enough.

Newspapers and Democracy

2009-11-19T07:31:00.005-06:00

The point I was trying to make in yesterday's post was not letting fear interfere or blind you to opportunties beyond your existing situation.

I used newspapers as an example because that's the career I had for more than four decades. I've been through it all in that industry.

Unfortunately for newspapers they got caught up in The Perfect Storm. A bombing economy, fractionalization of information distribution, untold numbers of websites and bloggers most purporting to be offering "true journalism."

It is incredibly expensive to publish a newspaper. Most people have no idea of what it takes to receive that newspaper on their doorstep each and every morning.

And yet newspapers still today offer the "purest" form of journalism in America. Now it's far from perfect. But make no mistake about my point here. The decline -- or worse yet -- failure of newspapers would threaten the fundamental tenents of Democracy. Did you read that? "Threaten the fundamental tenets of Democracy."

So while I do believe that traditionalism contributed to newspapers being behind the curve, it still is in everyone's best interest to insure their survival in some form. Otherwise, Democracy as we know it will no longer exist.

Pure, accurate and objective journalism is the greatest protection we have in maintaining our freedoms gauranteed by the United States Consitution.

True journalism are not sound bites on broadcast television. Or, websites dedicated to happy news. One that I am familiar with doesn't even pretend it offers pure journalism. What it offers is a slice, a fraction of the entire journalism pie.

Journalism encompasses everything from good news, to in-depth news, to news that is a catalyst for change -- good or bad - and so forth. It must be direct, objective and informative.

Be that as it may, it is vital that journalism not only survives, but thrives. This is a call to action. Support media organizations that provide pure journalism. In mosts cases it's newspapers. If that means subscribe, then subscribe. If that means advertise, then advertise.

No one will like the consequences of failing to do so.

Fear of career change

2009-11-18T08:07:00.000-06:00

Talk about scary. Having been a journalist for more than 40 years, working my way up from reporter to editor at various larger and larger newspapers, the thought of changing careers put fear throughout my entire body and soul.

As the newspaper industry began to tank, it became clear that this was no longer the business I wanted to be a part of. The industry was stagnant with traditionalism. I am not a traditionalist. I'm also not one to step out onto the ledge without a safety net.

The old cliche -- One door doesn't close without another opening -- is so true. The reason many of us don't believe, I think, is because of blinding fear. So if you're blinded, you can't see the open doors in front of you.

So when I took the risk of applying to be an extra in the movie "Public Enemies," that was a huge step for me. Traditonalist I'm not, but conservative I am when it comes to making a living. Of course, applying for the movie didn't really mean anything. I didn't have to give up my day job even if I landed the part.

But when I not only was called in to audition, and was offered a very well paying speaking role ... albeit very short-term ... it began a series of events that opened my eyes to opportunities beyond comprehension.

Obviously I accepted the role ... just see the movie which will be out on DVD Dec. 8th.

But that wasn't going to sustain me long-term.

The newspaper business kept getting tougher and tougher. Two or three rounds of layoffs, not just at my paper but throughout the industry.

Finally I was asked to go part-time. I did for a few months, then a buyout offer was put on the table. I took it, not knowing for sure what was around the corner.

A good friend -- Kenneth J. Allen -- asked me to join his law firm as marketing director. It would be part-time, but it gave me a source of income to sustain other ventures I wanted to pursue.

Working for Ken is absolutely the best. He has given me opportunities to learn far beyond the limited title of Marketing Director. Plus, he's the best injury attorney in the Midwest. Doubt it? Check his website at http://www.kenallenlaw.com/ and look as his results.

Anyway, I wrote a book about my movie experience. However, the book "Public Enemies Confidential: Johnny Depp, Michael Mann, and Me" is no longer available. That's a long story.

I joined SAG ( the Screen Actors Guild). I found two talent agents to represent me -- BMG Talent/Chicago and DeSanti Talents/Chicago. I engaged an acting coach, Matthew Miller in Chicago. And have been to a few national commercial auditions.

And, I'm working on a ton of other stuff.

I guess my point is, open your eyes for those doors that are open and don't be afraid to walk through. I am having the time of my life. I can't remember ever being happier.

Oh, and to Windy.City who posted a flattering comment on my blog...thank you! I don't know if you're a relative, friend, or neither. I only wish I had 10 percent of the looks and charisma of Johnny Depp. I'll talk more about that another time.

"Public Enemies" Blu-Ray DVD

2009-11-16T19:37:00.000-06:00

Even though the "Public Enemies" DVD will not be released in the United States until Dec. 8th, I had the opportunity to get a preview last Saturday.

My friend and fellow actor Robert Hollingsworth ordered a copy from the UK, where it was released on Nov. 2. Having seen the film twice already -- once at the Chicago premiere and later on opening day, July 1, 2008 -- we watched the behind the scenes commentary by Director Michael Mann. One word describes it: fascinating.

For anyone who doesn't know the story of bank robber John Dillinger, Mann does a brilliant job of narrating the film. Yes, some web posters describe the commentary as boring. But, having been born in Chicago near where Dillinger was shot and killed, I have an inherent interest in the life, and death of Dillinger.

Mann moves through the film describing actual places, such as the Crown Point Indiana Jail, where Dillinger escaped, to non-authentic scenes where he clearly points out the filmmakers took literary license.

I did not have time to watch the movie, but I will later this week in Chicago where I was invited to attend a special screening hosted by Universal Pictures. It will be my third viewing, and after hearing Mann it will no doubt offer a much deeper appreciation for this film, even though I enjoyed it the first two times.

It will be interesting to see if Universal shows us the DVD version, or the original theatrical film. They differ some in that some scenes in the DVD are longer offering more continuity and a less choppy movie. Of course the DVD version is about 20 minutes longer.

For disclosure, I am Reporter #1 in "Public Enemies."