The deal with "Black Cred"

My friend Erich believes that the one of greatest complements you can receive in terms of being together culturally is from African Americans, or like he sums it up "Black Cred". Being half African African or "Black", made me look into my past to wonder if I've ever experienced this "Black Cred", and what I found was that it has happened on occasion, but only from white or Asian people that I know. This past Halloween I was in Davis, California and was approached by this Asian guitar player who wanted to know if his music sounded good. I was in a group of 3 white guys watching his band rehearse when he came up and asked, and I complemented his improvisation on his guitar. Now I wasn't really paying attention to the music aspect of his performance as much as his dramatic actions he made while playing, but I wanted to appease his question. In response he gave me a handshake that included the Obama fist bump, so I knew he was satisfied. He wasn't willing to ask anyone else, and I thought to myself I dealt "Black Cred". Prior to this I've been asked advice by students at Foothill College about whether or not Drake was suitable for their ipod. I've also been questioned on whether or not Lebron's jersey would be cool to where on campus. If I haven't stated this already, these are my white friends on campus who ask. This concept has given me a feeling of importance, that since birth i've been inherited with this ability to make decisions.It's almost a cultural problem in America, because race shouldn't be a barrier for certain interests. Even though you may not think this is a suitable topic, Erich is right about "Black Cred", because in America black approval on culture is a step towards cool, and a lot of individuals who have interest in black music or black athletes want to feel apart of this scene created by commercialism. I also believe that the majority of population is not the only group needing " Black Cred". I feel black people want "Black cred" as well, just to feel content within their own race. Now you can claim that theirs other groups who people want to feel apart of, but nothing is comparable to the effect African Americans have on American culture. It's commercialized existence is the reason why you buy those Air Jordan's or listen to Young Money. For all those individuals who secretly play " Pass the Dutch" turned low in their cars, just remember that it's nothing to be embarrassed about. Remember that we appreciate you, and are willing to recommend other artists.

Local sounds

If you've ever been in Redwood City during the week you know about the quiet atmosphere around its downtown district. If this is your only impression of the City, then you've probably not been on main street. Here lies Angelica's Bistro which apart for being known for it's great menu, and it's statuesque ally way brings us live entertainment during the week. The establishment is owned by Peter and Angelica Cuschieri who both pride themselves in offering live music to the locals. I attended the open mic tonight, and was impressed with the number of people signed up to play original music. The stage is open every Tuesday night from 7pm - 10pm giving all musicians an opportunity to perform. Tonight I heard an enjoyable mix of rock and folk music that motivated the medium sized crowd to dance and clap. For a small Redwood City venue I was impressed with the animate MC Randy Bales who led the lively crowd by introducing the acts. For the cost of a drink one can watch local musicians play their hearts out for 3 hours, but according to Mr. Bales the open mic is also open to comedy and poetry. The Restaurant offers a full bar and dinner menu that goes great with their vintage atmosphere. Angelica's Bistro also holds special events like blue's on Wednesday night. Also this summer outdoor jazz will greet patrons beginning on June 21st. This event will be ongoing every Monday for 8-10 weeks. On May 9th the famous Jazz quartet " The BOBS" will perform for one night only at 7:30pm. You can check out all scheduled acts at WWW.angelicasbistro.com, but if you have that guitar locked up in the attic, and are willing to share your talent with a friendly crowd come out to Angelica's Bistro on Tuesday nights at 7pm on Main st. in Redwood City.

Books

1. The Catcher in the Rye. - This book is influenctial to me because it tells the story of a young man and shows his take on society. I first read this book in ninth grade and it inspired me to be more critical about certain things, and optimistic about others. 2. Room full of Mirrors: A biography of Jimi Hendrix - This book influenced me culturally because it was the first long biography I read about a musician, and since reading it it gave me a new perspective on music. It taught me my parents generation and it inspired me to look at a new approach at life. 3. A Different Mirror: A history of multicultural America - This is another book that influenced me culturally after having read it in a college sociology class. Being part African American and European I wanted to learn more about my culture.

Media Autobiography

I'm Dustin Ruttenberg, and I work as an announcer for Foothill College athletics. This is my current contribution to Mass Comm. My relationship with books are pretty good. My favorite book is Catcher in the Rye because I first read it in high school and thought it could serve a purpose later in life. As for newspapers I always read the local paper for politics and sports so I'm not behind. I enjoy movies as well, but don't have a favorite one. As for for favorite recordings I like most hip hop and classic rock/funk. I seldom listen to the radio unless sports are on. I don't listen to talk in the car nor music radio unless I'm riding with someone else. When I'm at home i watch a decent amount of TV. I'll watch a game or watch a sitcom, but I'm not glued to the box. Same goes with internet. I'll spend time writing my blog, or checking face book, or playing fantasy sports, but I'm not on it all the time. In fact the majority of my time on the internet is probaly spent downloading music or listing to music. Most of my music comes from the internet, so if downloading songs I could spend a number of hours online. As for my education I would like to major in Journalism and work for the news. I'm applying to 5 schools, but my top two are Minnesota and Oregon.