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| Chip says he was a teenager "shy to the point of being incapacitated" when he had to give a national press conference during Jessica's ordeal. |
Everybody's Baby: The Rescue of Jessica McClure can be found on Netflix streaming, Amazon and Youtube.
Realitytvkids.com: The coverage of baby Jessica was one of America's first pseudo "reality" shows. At what point did you become aware of how big the story was and how famous your daughter was, and what was that realization like?
Chip: I was standing in Jessica’s hospital room the night we got her out. It was a surreal moment, it had been so intense. We were so focused on getting her back alive that we didn’t really give any thought to what it would be like when it was over. So, here the three of us are, Jessica is lying in her bed, Cissy lying beside her. I’m standing there with my hands in my pocket. Relief setting in and the adrenaline wearing off. I did what anyone would do, I turned on the T.V. There just happened to be a story about Jessica. Well, that’s cool, I remember thinking. This is on T.V! So, I changed the channel. Much to my surprise she was on that channel too. Fifty-seven channels and there’s nothing on except Jessica’s rescue. That’s when I first knew how big the story was.
The money was set up in a trust fund for Jessica, it provided for her necessities and education as she grew up. When she turned 25 years old the money was released to her control. We did use a portion of the funds to buy a modest home in the Midland, but these were funds that were either cash or sent directly to Cissy and I. For example, there would be numerous checks that were made out to us and the memo line would be “Dinner on us!” Because these funds were not sent to Jessica directly, they could not be deposited into the trust. It was a typical trust that was managed by a bank in Midland. We received monthly documentation of how it was managed and invested but the bank handled the details.
Did you ever feel temptations to dip into Jessica's money?
There really weren’t temptations, the intent from the beginning was that it be for Jessica. There were times when it would have been tempting to use the money to fund a project or a business venture, but a trust does not have provisions for that. The best thing you can do with money in a situation is to leave it alone, let it grow to a substantial amount so that it can truly provide for the beneficiary.
We kept her out of the spotlight so that she would have the opportunity for a normal life. Once she was old enough to decide what she wanted to do she decided to keep it to a minimum. She really likes just being a normal girl. She likes knowing that people like her as a person and not just because she is a notable figure.
You and Jessica's mom were just 18 and 17 years old when this happened. Do you think being so young helped you or hurt you in being able to handle your lives becoming such an enormous public spectacle?
The truth is that it was an extreme disadvantage. Not only were we so very young, but I was shy to the point of being incapacitated. I had just accepted a job with a retail sporting goods store and the owner wasn’t sure it was going to work out because I was too shy to deal with the public. What did help, what saved us from certain embarrassment, was the fact that we were surrounded by very good people that protected us and helped us handle the situation and publicity. It still amazes me the people that God had placed in my life, in advance, who would be there for us at a time when we needed them most. The most notable is a man that is a life-long friend, in fact he has known me my whole life. He was involved in politics with my father. My family doesn’t have “god parents” but if they did Darrell Smith would be my godfather. Darrell came in and handled everything, he became our attorney and mentor. He called in a favor from Texas State Senator Pete Snelson, to handle public relations for us. Darrell assisted with the trust that was set up and the subsequent movie deal. I truly do not know what we would have done without him.
That report is actually false. Jessica grew up knowing about her trust and being invol
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| Jessica and her family in 2012. |
ved in the media decisions. Statements like that make good T.V. and help to promote other shows. I’m sure it originated with a comment, but was taken out of context. It’s like saying when did you set the kids down and tell them daddy is the president. The kids don’t have to be told, they just grow up with it. It’s all about how it is lived, the attitude of the parents. With Jessica we never made it a big deal, so it wasn’t a big deal. This allowed her to have a good attitude about life and her position in it.
The short answer is the grace of God. Any time you are thrust into the spotlight things can go very poorly. It really depends on your heart and your attitude. If you feel thankful for the love and attention, people will see that. If you thrive on the fame and attention, they’ll see that too. I am very thankful that all went well, the glory goes to God though. We were too young and naïve to make it through this good.
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| Fireman Robert O'Donell helped pull Jessica from the well. He later committed suicide. For Robert, fame was "like a drug," Chip says. |
Robert was a friend, and I was deeply disturbed by how the media spotlight affected him. One night we were at a party and he told a young lady that he was "the guy who rescued Baby Jessica.” Her response was; “Yeah, you and 400 other people!” Let’s just say that Robert didn’t shy from the attention, he lived for it. It was like a drug that he would have been better off not being introduced to. A few years after the incident, the media attention abruptly stopped. I was relieved; Robert was despondent. He had many other issues that are private matters that I won’t go into. These things were a more relevant and current concern at his time of death, and in my opinion were much greater factors in his fatal decisions that day. Though, we will never really know what was going through his mind at the time.
I’m sure we would all do things different giving the opportunity and retaining our current knowledge and maturity, but again considering our age and circumstances I think we were very blessed to have everything go the way that it did.
It didn’t contribute to the break-up, it probably extended the marriage. The fact is we were both children when we met. We were not in love. I wish this had been a storybook in that sense, but it wasn’t. The good news is God’s grace is sufficient, and as bad as we mess things up He has a way of making the best out of it. As far as co-parenting, you have to place the child(ren) above your own feelings. You have to make them the priority and not pawns in a war between ex-spouses.
What are your thoughts on parents who put their children in the public eye? What is your advice to them?
It’s a scary way to make a life for yourself and your children. I do believe that if your intentions are good and you keep God at the center of everything that you do it can be great. If you are selfish, greedy and looking for fame, it’s going to be a tough life. For you and your children.
Resentment from your children is a painful thing. I’m very glad that I don’t have to look at my daughter and say; “Sorry, your money is gone!”
No. The idea has been bantered around over the last few years, it’s not something Jessica wants to do.
The worst part is that you do attract some unhealthy attention. For every thousand people that truly love and care about your family, there’ll be one who is a little off. This can be scary and dangerous. Any famous family has the opportunity to do wonderful things and touch people’s lives, they just have to want to do that.
I haven’t watched the show more than a few minutes, so I probably don’t have enough information to comment. It’s probably not healthy and the sad part is the kids didn’t get to choose.
I have both a Twitter account and a Facebook page, I started both fairly recently as I begin to consider writing a book. The Facebook page has really been a source for excellent feedback and encouragement. I do say very little about Jessica or her family on Facebook. The page is www.facebook.com/atimetopray.
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| Amy and Chip today. |
Could you give us an update on how the family is doing now?
Our entire family is blessed. Jessica, Danny and the kids are doing great. I am now finally married to the love of my life. My wife Amy is an amazing woman. We have six kids between us, a regular Brady Bunch. I sell airplanes for a living at www.ridgeaire.com and as I mentioned before have been kicking around the idea of writing a book about the inspiring story of Jessica’s rescue.
My main purpose is to encourage people to pray and get involved. Jessica was rescued because 400 people showed up and worked with all of their ability. Her rescue was successful because the whole nation prayed together for her. Imagine what we could accomplish today if we all prayed, and became involved. Thanks for the opportunity to share.
874 sediments (sic) from readers:
«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 874 Newer› Newest»Wow - great interview Admin. I certainly remember baby Jessica. I'm so glad her parents had good people around them, to help them through the media frenzy. I had no idea of all the donations streaming in - but again, because they were fortunate enough to have both good-hearted and very smart friends, that money was appropriately handled and put into a trust. For being so young, these two parents did surprisingly well by their daughter. I love stories with happy endings and this is certainly one of them :)
Millicent, thanks. Chip is a stand up guy and great to work with. He seems so very happy with his life and so proud of Jessica.
Many people have said that fame just highlights your qualities. If you have bad qualities they'll be exemplified. If you are deep down a very good person, that likely won't change. In talking with Chip, I tend to agree.
I doubt he knows who Milo is, but his comment that the biggest drawback to being famous is for all the nice fans they met there will be that one loon, made me instantly think of MILO. Of course the difference for Chip is he recognizes the loons and knows to avoid them.
Great interview, admin! Imagine, two teen parents who did NOT want to be on TV, who got sensible advice and took that advice, and most remarkably, who chose to live within their means! I remember all the news coverage about baby Jessica. Glad to see she is all grown up with kids of her own.
You now what I like about Chip? It's hard to argue he didn't do a great job, even at 18 years old, with everything suddenly put on him to handle. And yet when asked if he would do anything directly, he still says, well we did all right for our age but you could always do better with maturity and experience.
In other words, he's a humble guy who still sees room for improvement even in a situation where I can't think of a single thing he didn't do exactly right. And that's the difference between Chip and Kate. Chip is reflective, Chip has introspection, Chip looks for ways to improve, Chip is hard on himself when it comes to doing what is best for his CHILD. But Kate thinks she does everything right and always has done everything right and always will do everything right.
Absolutely a wonderful interview. You scored a big one, Admin! What a blessing for them that they had such good guidance and actually listened to it and then did what was best for their daughter.
Lynn W.
What a great interview and how good to see how grounded Chip was and still is. The thing that stands out is that these young parents were surrounded by friends and family who gave them good advice and helped steer them in the right direction with regards to all the attention and publicity. They apparently had good advice also regarding the handling of the finances to assure Jessica's future. How refreshing.
Perhaps Kate should have kept her friends and family closer to her to give her the best advice they could offer. Unfortunately by all appearances she threw all that away.
Good post Admin.
Thank you, Admin. That was excellent.
God bless Jessica, her family and her parents.
Clearly Cissy and Chip had their young hearts in the right place for their beautiful daughter.
This story could have such a different outcome on many different levels. It all came out as it should. It's refreshing to read about it.
Thank you, Admin. That was a refreshing and enlightening interview.
I followed Jessica's rescue back in the day. I remember a magazine (?) that actually used a portion of a page to show a black circle that was exactly the size of the hole that Jessica fell into. It seemed impossible.
It is impossible to construct an imaginary conversation between Kate and Chip. No words.
Great interview, beyond his years at 17. The level of maturity those two had? More in their little fingers than Khate AND Jon had in their whole bodies, combined. I hope the G-kids' trust fund (that was JUST recently set up) has provisions like baby Jessica's did. Bet she holds that over their heads...
Bringing this from prev. thread- "How would they know that Kate calls them "littles?" I wouldn't think that they read her tweets or check her blogs. They couldn't care less about the Kate saga, who is suing whom, or buying Kate's cookbook. At ages eight and nine, there are other things on their mind -- like homework and Legos, baseball, Scouts, video games, and gymnastics!
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Maybe it's not happening now (IMHO I doubt it) but give it a couple of years... the bullying might not be exactly as described (drama, tweets, blog) at the moment, but it will get that way. Middle school and high school? Come on, let's be realistic. And who knows? Maybe the G-kids that were expelled will be "theee" bullies? Or maybe not even the ones who were expelled. A LOT of parents of bullies have NO IDEA that their children are acting this way. It goes both ways, parents of victims and parents of the perps. The signs are all there AFTER THE FACT...
wow! thanks for that Admin, there really is hope after all
franky
Chip, your answers are inspired. You capture the essence of faith that shows an awe and reverence to God and how He cares for us, with the notion that prayer and intentions are so very important.
It's an interaction, a conversation that we have with Him on an ongoing basis.
Mention of Baby Jessica brings back that iconic image of her being pulled out of the well, but I'm glad to say I now wouldn't be able to pick her out of a line up! Fame is fickle and even cruel, and I'm heartened to read that you chose to protect Jessica and her money. The attention must have been staggering but it sounds like you paused, reflected and weighed your decisions carefully.
Congratulations on you marriage, best of luck with your book, and thank you for taking the time to do this candid interview.
Great "get," Admin! This interview felt "real," you know? No talking points, no branding, just a casual conversation among friends. I like this guy and wish him all the luck in the world, though it seems as if he's brought a good number of positives into his own life... :)
Wondering...Do you suppose he reached out to you, at least in part, because he's thinking about writing his memoir?
Two big difference between Chip/Cissie and J & K is that Chip and Cissie listened to advice from their families, and chose not to sensationalize their incident/situation by exploiting their minor child as a money making scheme.
After 9 years, Kate still relies heavily on her tups to keep her relevant, and it is sad at best. By now, she should have her own niche in life, without broadcasting tups non-stop.
great interview Admin - and I hope Kate is reading it as well - not that it would make a difference. She is like the guy who "rescued" Jessica wanting all the fame and adulation. I think it's great that Chip and Cissy LISTENED to those that gave them great advice. I think Kate had many people (like her family) that gave her the same advice but the "stars in her eyes and the fame/fortune/money" meant more to her than her family, relationships, and protection of her kids. I think it's sad that Chip and Cissy divorced, but how refreshing that he did NOT throw her under the bus once during that interview but speaks highly of Jessica's mother. I think they did an awesome job. I have thought of them over the years, as my son was the same age as Jessica when it happened, and I too, was glued to the t.v. praying and praying that they would get her out and I cried right along with the rest of America when they did bring her out. I am so happy they "all lived happily ever after". Great post Admin!
There are so many levels of difference in the way Jessica's childhood was managed vs. the Gosselin 8, particularly the tups.
J+K actively sought media coverage since before the tups were born, holding news conferences each time a child left the hospital. Jessica received far, far more coverage, all over the country, yet had her basic right to privacy and dignity protected.
Compare that to the aggressive marketing of the G8, from selling their images, to using them for advertising toys, clothing, food and tourist destinations. Kate even pursued creating and marketing a video game/app of the kids, highlighting how hard it is to take care of 8 at once, evidenced by the cartoonish kids throwing tantrums when not tended to, a la Diner Dash.
As if poop, pee, nudity and vomit weren't enough to broadcast across the world, the children would be reduced to boorish, bratty cartoon characters that throw hissy fits if their diapers aren't changed.
What sick parent would even consider this? Can you imagine your schoolmates playing your game, making your character throw tantrums because they didn't feed or change you? The potential of teasing and abuse is tremendous and any parent in their right mind would see the exposure to potential harm this would create.
But Kate? "sounds fun. Do it!".
Fun for who, Kate?
I wonder what he would have done had this happened NOW. It is a very different world today, reality tv is an easy, acceptable paycheck. In 1987, there wasn't such a thing. People didn't watch tv 24/7, the networks turned off at what 2am(??), there was no internet. My family didn't have cable or a VCR until about 1986-1987.
It was a very, very different time. It is hard to compare, I think.
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Great "get," Admin! This interview felt "real," you know? No talking points, no branding, just a casual conversation among friends.
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He is writing a book. He is just starting up social media. He is looking for publicity. That is not a bad thing, it's just a fact. I suspect more interviews -- if he can get them -- will follow.
heather
Heather, I didn't get that feeling about Chip. The interview with Admin felt more private -- like a very interesting chat.
He felt like a very grounded and authentic man.
His past behavior displays excellent decision making skills. I would be surprised if he changes in the future.
I don't find the link between granting an interview now and writing a book to be suspect at all. Of course you want to gage interest because as we know, books don't make you rich nor do they bring you fame, in the VAST majority of cases.
Jessica's dad has not saturated the media or been in the spotlight in any way for decades. I think many will be interested in the aftermath of this miraculous story, especially because neither of Jessica's parent, or in fact, Jessica, has created public fatigue with fame-seeking antics.
From this interview, my sense is that Chip's book will be a testament to faith, family, community and God, more than a woe-is-me-me-me-tome.
Living an authentic life & exploring social media connections aren't mutually exclusive options. They go hand-in-glove, if you ask me.
The interview about his past rang true, albeit rehearsed. Nothing wrong with that...he obviously cares about maintaining a tight control on his public image, for stated reasons. We can all benefit from being equally circumspect about the things that matter most to us in life.
if you read the "about" section of his Facebook page, it seems pretty clear that he's pursuing a publishing/p.r. dream. which makes good sense at this point in his life. Time passed, Jessica grew up and her parents allowed her (themselves) plenty of time to mature. That's probably part of why he's reaching out to bloggers now--people who might be sympathetic to his views, and who might help build his social media "platform."
Yes, this happened a long time ago, but money sitting in your hand looks pretty tempting no matter what year it is. Then or now, a parent could easily rationalize the use of donations for unnecessary purchases and expenses. Cissy and Chip didn't fall prey to temptation then and I doubt they would now, even in this lousy economy.
As to the fame chasing idea, TLC would have done anything to get their story, I'm sure. I have a strong suspicion that the mature people around the McClure's would have pushed them right out the door. No deal. Jessica is not for sale.
Improbable, he reached out to me to say thank you and didn't ask anything of me. It was my idea to interview him and he basically said oh, well, sure okay! However he was very clear that he would not answer any questions about Jessica today, except that she is doing fine. And he did not want to share any pictures of her per her request. I could only use the pictures she's released to the media.
I think he's at a point in his life where he realizes that his story could really help people, move people, make a difference for people. And Jessica is fine with it as long as her privacy is respected.
He is looking for publicity.
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I disagree. He simply realized his story can help others in similar situations, whether it's raising a famous child, or coming into a lot of money, or being thrust into the public eye unexpectedly, or having any sudden upheaval in your quiet life. It's 26 years later for heaven sake. He has a real job, a good one, and a nice life. He should have written a book when he was 18 if he wanted publicity. This story is very old now.
Chip's story is important. For every memoir that says "My mom screwed me up don't do we she did" we need memoirs that say "Here's how to do it right." His story should be told as long as Jessica, who is a grown woman now and a millionaire, is okay with it.
I like how Jessica's father realized he would be accountable to his daughter one day for monies accrued; Kate ( and others,like Missy Francis' mother, for example) do not respect their children and did not look to future accountability IMO.
Great article! I remember this case well. There was a TV movie of it though, iirc?
" It was a typical trust that was managed by a bank in Midland. We received monthly documentation of how it was managed and invested but the bank handled the details."
It sounds like the trust guarded Jessica's money, not the parents? I doubt he had any say about how her money was managed.
I like how Jessica's father realized he would be accountable to his daughter one day for monies accrued; Kate ( and others,like Missy Francis' mother, for example) do not respect their children and did not look to future accountability IMO.
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Formely, I linked to the TV movie in the post! :)
I agree, these parents even at their young ages were able to think ahead and realize hey, someday Jessica will be an adult and some day Jessica is going to say, hey, where's my money??? If we don't do something right now to protect it. Incredible foresight for people so young.
Kate doesn't think about things like that. It never occurs to her someday the children are going to have a lot of questions for her, from why were we put to work before we could even speak, to why was our money spent on things that YOU wanted that we had nothing to do with like your upkeep and trips, to why do you hate our father.
Kids grow up and kids will have questions for you. The question is do you want them to ask THOSE things of you, or do you want them to ask, rather, how did you do such a great job raising me? Chip, at 18, knew this.
It sounds like the trust guarded Jessica's money, not the parents? I doubt he had any say about how her money was managed.
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Right, that was the point. They set up some kind of irrevocable trust so that the parents couldn't mess with it and it would just sit. Apparently it had provisions where they could withdraw for education. He certainly had a say in putting it in a trust in the first place, and setting it up so he couldn't touch it. He made a good point, the best thing they could do with that money is put it in an account and then ignore it and let it grow.
We can all benefit from being equally circumspect about the things that matter most to us in life.
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I don't think anyone could accuse Chip of striking while the iron is hot, which is what Kate did when the ink on her divorce wasn't even dry. Kate wrote about being a "single mom" when she had ZERO experience under her belt.
She had no time for reflection, 20/20 hindsight vision or time for the children to mature when she wrote about their individual reactions to the divorce, which was/is such a betrayal of the parent-child relationship.
In the wake of Jon and Kate's crumbled marriage, Kate and her team created a PR tsunami and Kate rode the wave all the way to the bank. Now, she's barely a ripple in the paddling pool.
Formerly Duped said... 23
I like how Jessica's father realized he would be accountable to his daughter one day for monies accrued; Kate ( and others,like Missy Francis' mother, for example) do not respect their children and did not look to future accountability IMO.
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I hope in the very least, the kids have college funds, FULLY FUNDED, because they've all earned it. I have a feeling that Jon has made sure of this.
I don't think we're on different pages here, with regards to Chip having a good head on his shoulders, with regards to how he protected Jessica and her trust It's the golden nugget of this story, isn't it? It's due in no small part to the fact that Chip was surrounded by people who had his family's best interests at heart--and (this is key) whose advice he took to heart.
Still, while uou might think it's out of the blue that he contacted you about a post you wrote a few years back, I don't. It's not a value judgment to say that, by any means...just a bit of speculation, fueled in large part by the About section of his FB page. It's clear from that lengthy passage that he's been taking notes on the long-standing popularity of his (Jessica's) story. I think he's putting out feelers.
To explain a bit about the differences in the way Missy's money was handled according to her book, it sounds like they deposited her checks into a simple savings account at the bank. She would have had a Coogan fund for when she was 18, but that would have only been 15% of her earnings. The other 85% her mother managed.
Her mom would dip into that account for things Missy "needed" and who even knows for what, I don't think even Missy herself has any idea where it all went. Her mom had easy, direct access to it. Missy too would dip into it, for instance to buy a BMW when she was a teenager. She had this idea it was an ever flowing pile of money when it really wasn't. It was a dwindling nest egg. However I don't blame a 16 year old for dipping into the pot. They are far too young to be able to handle that money. It should have been an irrevocable trust that no one could touch until a certain age including Missy herself. You can only put money in, you can't take it out. And it should have been invested more aggressively so it could grow.
Improbable, I would think he would go to a major publication to put out a feeler. Not some piddly little very niche area blog. :) Thanks for the flattery though. I'm not sure how a blog with such a niche would be a good way to gage the general public's reaction, since most people here are already interested in the subject. A good feeler should go out to a general audience.
I could have said why thank you Chip for the note glad you enjoyed our article, and probably never spoken to him again. The interview was my idea. It's quite a stretch to say I'm going to thank this woman for her article and cross my fingers she thinks to ask me for some big exclusive interview, yea!! Especially when this blog rarely does such things.
If he had said thank you for the article and if you have any questions I'd be happy to answer them, I would agree with you. That's not what happened.
FYI, this interview also took all week to accomplish, because he was busy with work. He apologized that it was not on his top priority. If I were really interested in such a thing, I wouldn't dilly dally around with it and risk making people impatient with you.
I hope in the very least, the kids have college funds, FULLY FUNDED, because they've all earned it. I have a feeling that Jon has made sure of this.
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In 2011, Kate said the college funds are "not even close" to what they'll need.
http://www.realitytvkids.com/2011/07/kate-savings-for-kids-is-not-even-close.html
How on earth this could be possible after all the money they made is BEYOND ME. And how she can flounce around spending money on cars and trips and upkeep when that is the case is infuriating.
Improbable Dreams said... 29
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I agree it's possible that Chip is putting out feelers, which is what I'd do if I was gauging interest. I think he will have no problem getting a publishing company.
I hope that the experience is a good one for him. It's a daunting task!
This was a galvanizing story for, it seems, the whole country and beyond.
Realitytvkids.com (Administrator) said... 32
Kate is a liar I don't think you can believe anything she says.
I think she lies to gain sympathy and if she not lying about the college fund.
Then she or Jon has messed up the kids money and who knows how much money they have left.
Admin, you did indeed provide a link. I didn't recognize it as the TV movie! My mind! OY!I watched so may news updates on it at the time, and later that movie, they blurred into one big story.Thanks!
She is like the guy who "rescued" Jessica wanting all the fame and adulation.
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Wowser, exactly. In many ways this story is a giant metaphor for how these situations typically go. There are people who reject the spotlight and keep themselves focused on the end game and when you check in with them 25 years later there they are doing great. Then there are people like the rescuer who define themselves by the situation and use it to their advantage. Now, in the short term, the rescuer may have made more money, had more accolades, got invited to more events, been more famous and had more "fun." But in the long run, eight years after the story died, he could not keep on living. This lifestyle ate at his soul.
I've always thought Kate is a very short-term thinking person. What feels right and good *now.* But where will she be in 25 years? Heaven forbid, will she be dead too? This story is a warning in many ways.
Chip and Cissy were long term thinkers. While this may feel good now, it will not feel good when Jessica is 25 and staring us down asking us what did we DO??? The thing so spectacular about it is that usually teenagers can't think that way yet. I don't think it can be emphasized enough how mature they were to be able to think outside of the moment.
Developmentally, they were PROGRAMMED to think in just that moment. It's really amazing they were able to get out of that mindset.
If he didn't want publicity, he would have declined the interview.
I'm not saying it is BAD to do interviews -- i AM saying that he probably contacted admin HOPING to get some publicity. He is writing a book and needs to get his feet wet. He is probably media savvy at this point in his life and knew admin would jump at the chance to interview him and that whatever she posted would portray him in a very positive light. I am guessing he was hoping she would ask.
Again, not saying this is a negative thing to do. But to act as though the interview was altruistic on his part is naive. I would doubt any major media would be interested in him right now, which is probably why he contacted admin.
And I do really wonder what would have happened if he was in the same situation today. Because you cannot compare the time periods from a media/technology/accessibility point of view. They are night and day.
heather
I don't care if he wants to write a book. He has an interesting story to tell. Great interview.
Heather, I'm not going to lie, your negativity and conspiracy theories about every single thing ever said here wear on me. Did you read the interview? He said that the idea of a reality show had been tossed around but that Jessica was very clear she did not want to do it. So, I beg to differ, we in fact do know what they would do today. They would say no.
I also think that it was really not THAT much different than today. The late 80's was just when the 24-hour news cycle was really being born and this was one of the first big stories to be immersed in that new way to tell news. It was on every channel. The last time a story was on every channel was 9-11. While there was no Twitter, there was a pervasive, in your face media that has become our new normal. If anything they were at a disadvantage back in 1987 because this kind of pervasive coverage was not par for the course at the time, it was shocking to them and no one really had a good idea how to handle it. Today we have PR experts in this kind of coverage who know exactly what to do who could have guided them expertly. Back then they played it by ear and STILL made out on top.
What would be so different than today? They didn't open a twitter account and #babyinthewell wasn't trending? They were still offered countless interviews, still offered incredible amounts of money, still had media banging down their door. Exactly what would have happened today. We are talking about 1987, not 1937.
The bottom line is though, this didn't happen today, it happened in 1987, so what relevance does that speculation have? In that time in that moment, they did the right thing. Why can't they just be given credit for that? To play the game of well if this or this or if this maybe it would have been different, makes little sense to me. There are always IF's, but none of this If's came to be so it doesn't matter.
Is she grifting for Calico Critters now?
I think Kate has plenty of money for the kids' college. It's probably part of her financial planning. She poor mouths about it because she doesn't want to share any money with the kids. She is hoping scholarships and donations will allow her to keep their college money. That's my take on her whining. Those stories in the tabloids a few years back about her being broke, all planted. She spends on herself lavishly but not on the kids except for the private school and that's a control and image issue. When she puts the kids in public school, then I'll believe she is low on cash.
I also think that it was really not THAT much different than today. The late 80's was just when the 24-hour news cycle was really being born and this was one of the first big stories to be immersed in that new way to tell news
*****
The fascination with following people in their lives began almost 2 decades earlier, with "An American Family".
From Wiki:
"In 2002, An American Family was listed at #32 on TV Guide's 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time list. It is the earliest example of the reality television genre."
Only 5 years after Jessica's rescue, MTV launched "The Real World", which is scheduled to be renewed into its 28th year of production.
Americans' appetites were whetted and this story, following this amazing little girl, would have captured audiences in record-breaking numbers given the media frenzy. How she survived, grew up and the divorce of the parents would have made for golden grist for the mill.
Just like J+K's, which drew in 10 million viewers.
I go back and forth on my speculations about their money.
On the one hand I think Kate certainly might exaggerate the situation, i.e. we don't have enough in their college funds! In order to keep that cash and freebies flowing. If she comes out and says hey we're great now we're set for life, she might worry that no one will give anymore.
On the other hand, she would have to have some incredible investments in order to keep up this lifestyle until they are 18 and STILL have substantial funds for all eight of them left. She isn't working and keeping up the cash flow, other than the blogging job. I just can't believe this little blogging job is enough to maintain her lifestyle without dipping into reserves. How much could The Stir really be paying her?
Another food for thought, if the college funds ARE fully funded or substantially funded and she has gone around saying they are not, that could be fraud if she accepts money or gifts from people under the premise that they don't have enough. Just like it would be fraud for someone to, say, collect for someone's cancer surgery that has already been paid for by insurance, or stand on the street selling candy bars to build your school a swimming pool when really you just pocket the money. It's just a matter of a prosecutor wanting to press chargers. You aren't allowed to lie to people about what you are collecting money for.
I wonder how much of the money they used for her education and necessities? I still feel that parents should provide that.
Karry
Yes, American Family started this idea that it was okay to peek into people's private lives. CNN was subsequently founded in the 80's and thus began the 24 hour news cycle.
The very first stories to get real intense pervasive coverage were the fall of the Berlin wall, Reagan's presidency, Challenger explosion, and JESSICA. Jessica ranks up there with major political events and major disasters. And I think she was the first child to really see 24 hour coverage of her story.
It was so, so very new and uncharted territory. But it's really not that different than today.
Karry, I'm torn about that. I don't have a problem with a child's money being used to pay for a comfortable lifestyle and education within reason. It makes little sense for me for a child to be dirt poor and hungry their entire childhood only to be a millionaire at 25. Why suffer with all that money there? The problem I have with it is that for some parents they really seem to blur the lines between what is a "necessity." And it would be so easy to just not work since a trust is funding your child's lifestyle so why bother? As far as we know, Chip has worked his whole life and never went down that road. Private schools in Texas and a modest home in Midland can't have been that much. The problem happens when a parent says, well I'm going to buy this nice luxury car because it's a "necessity" for my child to drive them to school. I think the key with trusts is to make them very specific, make the rules very rigid, so that that sort of thing is defined. For instance instead of saying, you may withdraw money for school, it should be specific, i.e., "You may withdraw up to $10,000 a year for education to be used for school tuition, required school supplies, required sports equipment, and summer camp tuition." Doesn't have to say exactly that but you get the idea.
Bank documents show the couple's home was purchased with help from the trust...
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2218731/Jessica-Morales-Famous-toddler-rescued-1987-married-children.html#ixzz2THaQwKf2
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Heather, I'm not going to lie, your negativity and conspiracy theories about every single thing ever said here wear on me. Did you read the interview?
-----------------------
I'll second that. It wears thin after awhile. Not everyone has a selfish motive for everything they do. The cynicism of conspiracies can spin out of control and all that's left is paranoia and the inability to believe anything that anyone puts forth as truth.
I don't care who this man contacted or for what reason. He gave a very honest and credible interview, not beating around the bush on anything. I had wondered what happened to this family. We followed the rescue every step of the way. I'll buy the book, regardless of the fact that he contacted admin and agreed to an interview. It was gracious of him to do that. Very nice interview, admin...with good questions. Thank you.
I don't have a problem with Kate providing the kids a nice home and living an upper middle class lifestyle. She's lucky to be divorced and able to provide that because often that is not the case. She is in a great position to have a career that does not involve the kids publicly.
You are right, Admin, Kate does not think long term. I don't understand at all what appeal she thinks she still has to the public. Her self image is totally "enmeshed" with those kids (...enmeshed families are those in which the boundaries are skewed and all members are a part of the pie, so to speak, as opposed to individual slices within the pie). She needs therapy to move on.
Again, not saying this is a negative thing to do. But to act as though the interview was altruistic on his part is naive. I would doubt any major media would be interested in him right now, which is probably why he contacted admin.
____________________
Give us a break, Heather. There's nothing naive about it. He gave an interview. Don't you ever get tired of assuming that everyone has a greedy reason for everything they do? No offense to admin or her blog, but if this was done to promote a book, I am sure that there are other avenues he could pursue rather than an internet blog about the Gosselins.
If you like conspiracies, perhaps you could focus on the IRS scandal and the Tea Party, or the coverup on the Benghazi attacks...it's much more interesting than trying to figure out this man's reason for doing an interview with Reality Kids.
For Heather from Psychology Today
Quote;'One reason I generally have trouble accepting conspiracy theories is that they're usually based on far-fetched claims that are nearly impossible to disprove, or prove. My skepticism is further strengthened by the fact that we humans have an assortment of cognitive biases that can distort our judgments and allow us to maintain beliefs despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Some of these biases include the tendency to see patterns where none exist, and to interpret new information and recall old information in ways that confirm our expectations and beliefs. However, most of the time we're unaware of these biases and overly confident that our perceptions represent the objective truth.'
Great interview, Administrator!
Geeze, time has flown by. I remember being glued to the t.v., waiting for baby Jessica's rescue.
It's impressive that although Chip and his wife were very young, they still had the presence of mind to raise their daughter correctly.
How unfortunate that Robert (Jessica's rescuer) ended his life. He will forever be remembered as the man that carried a taped up baby away from a well. May he rest in peace finally.
Lastly, how WONDERFUL that Jessica is doing well- and that she has a family of her own.
Thank you for presenting their story.
I'm looking forward to watching, "Everybody's Baby: The Rescue of Jessica McClure" on Youtube.
I was really looking forward to the G6's 9th birthday? Why? Because I hoped Kate would stop calling them the 'littles' by this age. Nope, I will have to wait another year at least. And yes, too much talk of Calico Critters. Indirect grifting.
I grifted by mistake today! I was telling a neighbor when I walked my dog how another person on the street kindly gives all the dogs who go by a Milkbone and she said ' oh, I will have to get some then!'
I felt awful even though I didn't mean to hint, just to say this gentleman was thoughtful. I could never be "Kate."
Another food for thought, if the college funds ARE fully funded or substantially funded and she has gone around saying they are not, that could be fraud if she accepts money or gifts from people under the premise that they don't have enough.
------------------
The questions lies how much will be enough for the twins, or the tups for that matter, IF they decide to go to college, and how much they will need. There are many scholarships, grants, and loans at most colleges, which any of her kids could qualify for, based on need. Especially if all six decide to go at one time. On the other hand, parents are still expected to contribute to costs, so not sure if Kate ever considered this in her claims of wanting all kids to go to college. The kids clearly earned money, but we will never know how much Kate contributed towards this fund. IMO, Kate is very obtuse on this issue, in spite of the fact that she made millions while filming her kids.
Wowser said:
I think it's sad that Chip and Cissy divorced, but how refreshing that he did NOT throw her under the bus once during that interview but speaks highly of Jessica's mother. I think they did an awesome job.
******
And that's how two parents who love their child(ren) more than they dislike or hate their ex's, behave. They put the best interests of the child first and foremost, and do their best to avoid pettiness and ugliness. Sadly, many divorcing parents cannot rise to this level, but it sounds like Jessica's parents did. Well done.
That one picture of Jessica shows a young mom who appears very content with her life.
Heather, you seem to view the world in only one way-NEGATIVELY. Doesn't this get tiresome? You're unfounded suspicions are getting tiresome to a lot of us here. This suspicious outlook cannot be healthy. You probably don't see it yourself, maybe you're trying to "help" but it can't ALWAYS be that there is an ulterior motive for EVERYONE'S EVERY action. This seems to be your pattern, the world and/or people just can't be ALWAYS be BAD.
One thing struck me as I was reading what Chip had to say that I think is important. I noticed that Chip always thought of the money as Jessica's...not money for the family. He said that they used money/checks made out to them (''Have dinner on us'') to help buy a house, and everything else was Jessica's.
Both KK and Melissa's mother seem to believe that their mere presence on the set as their children worked meant that they were equally entitled to all money earned. How many times has KK said that SHE was the 'star' and the children were just playing while the filming was going on? I don't think that KK will ever have a moment of guilt for spending the children's money, because in her eyes, the money is hers!
Formerly Duped said... 53
I was really looking forward to the G6's 9th birthday? Why? Because I hoped Kate would stop calling them the 'littles' by this age. Nope, I will have to wait another year at least. And yes, too much talk of Calico Critters. Indirect grifting.
******
And don't you find it odd that the term, "littles" was never used on the show*, just when they actually grew way past the toddler stage?
Marketing? Branding?
Grifting for Calico Critters? Yesssssssssssssss.
*or was anyone paying more attention than me and "littles" was used to refer to the tups?
This interview was a nice surprise, Admin. Thanks for doing it.
It doesn't matter to me what Jessica's father's intentions were when he contacted you. He's not even close to being the famewhore Katie Irene is.
Formerly Duped said... 53
*****
That's not grifting, it's just good old-fashioned word of mouth! Especially with our four-legged friends, it's great to get recommendations.
-Anonymous said... 47
Bank documents show the couple's home was purchased with help from the trust...
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2218731/Jessica-Morales-Famous-toddler-rescued-1987-married-children.html#ixzz2THaQwKf2
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
-----------
I didn't see that mentioned but the article did say Jessica is planning to use the money for her children's college educations.
-Vanessa said... 51
For Heather from Psychology Today
Quote;'One reason I generally have trouble accepting conspiracy theories is that they're usually based on far-fetched claims that are nearly impossible to disprove, or prove. My skepticism is further strengthened by the fact that we humans have an assortment of cognitive biases that can distort our judgments and allow us to maintain beliefs despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Some of these biases include the tendency to see patterns where none exist, and to interpret new information and recall old information in ways that confirm our expectations and beliefs. However, most of the time we're unaware of these biases and overly confident that our perceptions represent the objective truth.'
-----------
Thanks for that quote, Vanessa. I agree with it 100%. I've had my fair share of trying to talk to conspiracy theorists. It's very frustrating at times.
Chip and Admin, thank you for providing this uplifting article. After reading Kate's shenanigans for a while it's good to remember there are people out there who put their children before fame and fortune when the temptation arises.
Last thing: Kate's added another ghastly entry about Shoka on her website. You know the one with over 8 million hits. LOL
OK, somebody help me out here, please. These Calico Critters - they're STUFFED ANIMALS? Kate is now buying her girls "the most useless gifts on the planet/dust collectors" and now they are the perfect gift? When did she flip?
Did she make any of her kids give up stuffed animals a few years ago, or did she just threaten to toss them?
I worry about Kate's interpretation of "necessity" when it comes to the kids' money. She is determined to get back on TV, and seems to think her image, complete with sports cars, hair frying, tanning, nails, plastic surgery, etc--are necessary to make her fit into the Hollywood fake-Barbie stereotype. I'm worried that she may think that all the image-related crap should be funded by the kids, because that's what she thinks will get her back on TV, which will then allow her to support the kids in style.
Same with her travel/bodyguard. She may think it will get her noticed, therefore it's contributing to the kids' well-being, so the kids' money should fund that, too. She can basically argue that anything having to do with her looks and image will ultimately benefit the kids, so the kids should be paying for it. That's scary.
BTW, it's now been 21 months since TLC fired her, and 20 months since the last episode aired. This second year has gone fast! Her Twitter numbers are consistently in the single digits, her cookbook is a huge flop, no TV projects in the works,and the paps are gone, replaced by Kate's blurry pictures posted on her web site. Oh, how the mighty have fallen.
Funny how Jessica's dad thought he could have done better by her if he had been more mature, but at age 18 he was a better, more mature, and more responsible parent than Kate is at 38.
As I sit on a grassy knoll and read Heather's latest conspiracy theory I'm reminded of another...oh, never mind!
Vanessa said... 51
For Heather from Psychology Today
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
From Carpe Noctem (Seize the Night) on conspiracy theories...
"Unfortunately, a lot of the time a forest can be a dark, deceptive, and scary place. Unknown things rustle in the undergrowth or in the leaves overhead, and patterns of shadows can play on the imagination. When people are deprived of the truth, the settle for rumor, scuttlebutt, speculation, and out-and-out fiction. In times of stress, the need to have at least the illusion of knowing can outstrip even obvious implausibility. A military unit facing combat is the perfect model. The more the lowly grunts are kept in the dark, the more the rumors flourish and the grapevine hums. Someone has always heard something on the QT, and someone else is always absolutely certain what damn-fool plans the generals are cooking up. One way or another, the information vacuum will be filled even if it’s with total fabrication."
Interesting blog:
http://www.carpenoctem.tv/conspiracy-theories/
Tweet-le, it's in the article, I just checked. It also says good things about the hard-working people of Midland, who benefited from the media exposure:
"At the time of the accident, sympathetic strangers showered the family with teddy bears, home-made gifts, cards and cash.
Bank documents show the couple's home was purchased with help from the trust.
Carroll Thomas, Midland's mayor in 1987, said the city's reputation benefited from the rescue. Most people around the world had not heard of Midland back then.
‘They had a good feeling about Midland because they read about it and saw how hard we were working,’ he said. ‘It went on so long.’"
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2218731/Jessica-Morales-Famous-toddler-rescued-1987-married-children.html#ixzz2TIM51200
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
Interesting interview, and it is good to know that Jessica is doing so well today and that Chip is still careful to preserve her desire for privacy.
From the looks of Chip's Facebook page and his interview here, his book is focusing on his own experiences with unexpected fame -- and his faith. Fair enough. I'm a card carrying atheist, but if he wants to choose to tell his story as a way of witnessing that is fine by me. :-)
Also, he probably has some very good insights in dealing with the journalistic mayhem that surrounds tragic situations and accidents like Jessica's. I'm old enough to remember that whilst there was a great out-pouring of support for the family, there was also a small subset of people who were highly critical of the teenage parents. Especially the poor young mother who took her eyes of her child for a second. It really was a freak accident. Nobody knew the well was there, and it was only an 8" pipe in the ground that Jessica tumbled into.
It can't have been easy for these two young people who, unlike Kate, did not invite the public into their lives.
I don't know how many of you have been following the Cleveland story. I hope the press backs off soon and leaves those poor young women alone to recover in private. They will need a lot of time and help with fending off the media and offers to tell their stories.
Two of them have supportive families who will be able to hold the press at bay. The third is dependent on strangers for the moment. Her mother and grandmother have already spouted off about tragedies in her past, prior to the kidnapping. I wish they had respected her privacy and shut the h**l up.
We (the general public) do not need to know the details. They certainly did not choose to be in the spotlight and do not need to share their stories with us. They need to recover from inconceivable horror.
If one or more of them is able speak out, as Jaycee Dugard and Elizabeth Smart have done, they also have that right. I hope Heather can't manufacture a conspiracy theory about that. Jaycee and Elizabeth are unbelivably courageous women who are able to advocate for others, but not all survivors can do it.
Sorry, Heather, you pissed me off. That was one conspiracy theory too many for me.
I see no reason a child should not have a comfortable modest lifestyle if they can as long as they have plenty left over. I don't see how you can say that doesn't benefit the child. The issue becomes when you cross that line and use that money to fund something beyond that, such as a million dollar mansion and three cars. There was nothing wrong with Jon and Kate's home before the mansion. It was modest but comfortable. My understanding is most of it was heavily funded by donations or the children's money. Fine. They were working so hard I would be upset at any parent who would make them live in poverty or uncomfortably. The issue became when it was less a decision for the good of the children and really more about fulfilling an adult's dreams and fantasies while at the same time unequivocally telling us that other funds for their future were severely underfunded. That's unconscionable. In my opinion that mansion was for the good of the adults, not the children. Kate outed herself with her mine all mine comment. It was about her not the kids. I see the opposite here, decisions made for the good of the child while ensuring future funds were heavily padded. I think it's amazing Jessica is saving the money for her own children's college. What a legacy. And by that time the money will have 18 more years to grow. She seems to have inherited her parent's same maturity and foresight.
As I sit on a grassy knoll and read Heather's latest conspiracy theory I'm reminded of another...oh, never mind!
&&&&&&&&&
lol, NJ. There's a section in the link I posted (65) about the grassy knoll/Warren Commission/magic bullet. Was that you sitting there in the blurry photograph?
Last thing: Kate's added another ghastly entry about Shoka on her website. You know the one with over 8 million hits. LOL
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
The one that grows by one million a day? Can't you see one million Kate fans rushing home from their jobs, ignoring their families as they drool in anticipation to log in and read all about Shoka's latest antics?
Improbable Dreams said... 66
''........bank documents show the couple's home was purchased with help from the trust''.....
~~~~~~
I also read the article, and the portion I quoted simply does NOT say that the home was purchased with money from the trust. It says ''with help from''....and to ME, that means that the trust was used as collateral for the young couple to purchase their home.
When you're not looking under every rock for some evidence that a rotten conspiracy theory exists, it is easier to read something and think logically...especially when your judgements are based on the character/behavior of the person being discussed.
I just read that insane piece of drivel that Shoka "wrote." What in the heck was that? Kate is really scaring me...
She can't write, even if she takes on the persona of a dog. She needs to stop and spare herself such embarrassment.
TFGOT (formerly Thanks for Going Off Topic) said... 67
''...The third is dependent on strangers for the moment. Her mother and grandmother have already spouted off about tragedies in her past, prior to the kidnapping. I wish they had respected her privacy and shut the h**l up''
~~~~~~~
I agree about the third woman. She refused to allow her mother in her hospital room to visit her, and thank goodness for HIPAA, which allowed the hospital to refuse to tell the mother/grandmother when she left the hospital, which protected her. Now I read that the mother has retained an attorney in an attempt to force the woman to meet with her! If nothing else, the mother/grandmother's actions after learning that she survived, have validated the young woman's decision to have nothing to do with her.
It is none of anyone's business where she is, but I pray that she is with someone that will do whatever is necessary to keep her safe and get her whatever help she needs!
Kate's Shoka blog is plain dumb and beyond childish, but if this is who is reading, then she's hit the sweet spot:
leighshahan1
@Kateplusmy8 Too Funny! Talkin bout dogs and noises. Neighbors dog loved firecrackers etc. and would try to pick them up when we lit them! 😁
Jeebus, this pisses me more than conspiracy theories. There is nothing funny about a dog trying to pick up a lit firecracker with its mouth. But, thanks for sharing, you idiot.
Jeebus, this pisses me more than conspiracy theories. There is nothing funny about a dog trying to pick up a lit firecracker with its mouth. But, thanks for sharing, you idiot.
____________________
I just read that and was about to post but you beat me to it. Keep in mind that came from the same person who paraded around the Walmart parking lot plugging Kate's show. Speaks volumes.
Admin, the house was all about filming. They'd played around with the idea of custom building a huge home, which would be the epicenter of filming, from basing many episodes on the process, to having it be a production center for their reality show.
Separate facilities were to be built for the crew so they wouldn't sully the main living space, and most of the house would be donated for marketing purposes by various companies.
I don't know why that custom home fell through, but it seems like the compound met their needs of being isolated from the world, having plenty of facilities for crew and most importantly, an apartment for Jon.
" TLC wants us to be normal. How will we explain out 2M home ;-)"
This was an excellent interview and insight into a completely different mindset from Gosselin Greedy Grifters. Who knows what these parents might have done in the time of reality tv/Twitter, etc., but it is not relevant to their story. Jessica grew up normally in spite of being raised by divorced, young parents, so it is a testimony to their absolute decent behavior. I was struck by the honesty when her father said they were never in love, just lovestruck teens with a baby. His ability to speak well about his daughter's mother is how it should be.
The house that was purchased with donated funds was modest, a word not in KG's limited vocabularly.
But the real difference to me is that Jessica's situation was the result of a horrific accident, while we cannot forget that Kate was the engineer of her ticket to the good life, and all the greed that has ensued. As for conspiracy theories, it has become tiresome, not much different than Ms.Goody's nonsensical Jon tirades. Time to give it a rest.
Again, thank you for this interview. I hope it all works out for him.
For those who think media circus around tragedies is something new, just read about Floyd Collins. One good summary is at www.nuttyputtycave.com/LFloydCollins.html
Floyd Collins was trapped in a cave in 1925 and died there two weeks later. In the interim his story became a national sensation. Some writers think his story was the first ”media circus” of the modem era, with a reporter crawling into the cave to interview him. A movie inspired by the events was made in 1951, titled Ace in the Hole and later renamed The Big Carnival. It starred Kirk Douglas and was directed by billy Wilder. It is going to be on TCM this Friday, May 17, @ 8pm!
Fascinating article, go to www.tcm.com/this-month and go to Friday night spotlight Second Looks. The films are listed on the right, pick The Big Carnival ( Ace in the Hole)
NJGal51 said... 64
As I sit on a grassy knoll and read Heather's latest conspiracy theory I'm reminded of another...oh, never mind
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Weellll, I saw this the other day:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2322981/Former-Nixon-aide-claims-evidence-Lyndon-B-Johnson-arranged-John-F-Kennedys-assassination-new-book.html
Former Nixon aide claims he has evidence Lyndon B. Johnson arranged John F. Kennedy's assassination in new book
So Shoka bites other animals? Not so good. What animals would that be- squirrels, rabbits, possums? And yes, the bog was very poorly-written and boring. What was the point?
michaelaaaaa_xo
today in biology, we talked about how often certain organisms can reproduce& my teacher mentioned @kateplusmy8. i got so happy.
=======
Oh. My. Word.
Wait until she shows up on psychology books as a classic case of narcissism and greed gone bad.
I remember those three intense days in 1987. We all held our breath until baby Jessica emerged from that tiny hole. I have wondered whatever happened to her but honestly did not think to google her name until today.
Chip and Cissy's decision to seek good financial advice and protect their child from the public eye is exemplary. It's a relief to know some people can resist the tempatation of giving their lives over to reality teevee.
Then we have Kate, who's antics have made a mockery of raising children. God forbid she's ever put in a position where a child of her's were in a similar situation as Jessica. I don't even want to entertain any ideas of what she'd do with that kind of attention.
What a refreshing thread Admin. Good job.
Tucker's Mom said... 58
I read somewhere that Kate did not like to refer to her six as sextuplets (too clinical) or tups (too many haters used the word). So, "the littles" it was. I can't stand it when she calls them littles either. It's so infantile it turns me off. She should just refer to them as "the six". As in I am taking the six to get their hair cut or whatever. But it is certainly time to treat them as individuals and not like a six pack. Come to think of it, when she talks about Alexis or Colin as individuals, it just sounds like any other mother yacking about their kid. Which translates in to so what, who cares, boring crap. And without the littles, there goes her ever present dream of a TV career. Guess I just told myself why she keeps calling them littles. LOL.
fidosmommy said... 62
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yes, they are! Hypocrite Kate is singing their praises.
Kate did toss some stuffed animals in the Basement Reorganization episode where two professionals helped her. She did spare Collin's bear although thoroughly mentally tortured him about throwing it out. She allowed the kids to accept free stuffed toys at that Biblical theater. I guess the kids have some, and now maybe she hopes to be a spokesperson for Calico Critters- hence the many @calicocritter tweets & the photo of Mommy playing- btw isn't Mommy a babyish words the twins used on her card? Most kids say Mom by age 12.
So Kate posts pictures, one by one, over three days to get more hits for her website and then does another lousy Shoka Diary on the fourth day.
How long can she keep going? Let's sit back and watch.
The house that was purchased with donated funds was modest, a word not in KG's limited vocabularly.
*****
That word would be "mediocre", which is like, "Voldemeort" to Kate.
I do agree with some of the things Heather has posted in the past (GMO foods, vaccines, etc.) - but not with her last post. That said, Admin and a couple others "talked" to her and that should be enough.
Now, it feels just a bit like we're "piling on" Heather. Maybe when something like this comes up in the future, we should read ahead to see if it's been addressed. I hope I haven't offended anyone, I just think we should be able to give our opinions and counter-opinions without it getting personal.
Calico critters aren't stuffed animals. They're little solid velvety-type toys. I can't for the life of me remember what age my daughter was into them.
I just watched "Everybody's Baby" on Netflix. Wow, that brought back memories. I was visiting my Grandma for a week & we were glued to the tv until Jessica was brought up. Thanks for suggesting the movie.
TFGOT said:
I don't know how many of you have been following the Cleveland story. I hope the press backs off soon and leaves those poor young women alone to recover in private. They will need a lot of time and help with fending off the media and offers to tell their stories.
Two of them have supportive families who will be able to hold the press at bay. The third is dependent on strangers for the moment. Her mother and grandmother have already spouted off about tragedies in her past, prior to the kidnapping. I wish they had respected her privacy and shut the h**l up.
*****
I agree - I hope that the media will back off these three young women. I think if those women and their families refuse to speak to the media, that will go a long way toward getting them some much need privacy. If and when they want to tell more about their stories, let it be on their own time, at their own pace, etc.
As to Michelle - the girl who came from a dysfunctional family. I heard that the DeJesus family wants to adopt her (even though she is an adult, I think she needs a good loving family to take care of her). So I hope that happens (the adoption). She is the one I worry most about.
Kate's latest entry in Shoka's Diaries is so horribly written and pathetic and clueless that I feel sorry for her. Seriously. She's desparate now and is showing it.
http://www.tmz.com/2013/05/14/ashley-tisdale-obsessive-fan-stalker-lapd/
Ashley Tisdale's legitimately freaked out ... after an obsessed fan sent more than 18,000 tweets to the actress and then showed up to her home, TMZ has learned.
In case you missed it or no one has mentioned it yet.
KK's back doing the Shoka Diaries.
lol, I still consider them akin to stuffed animals, same principle, and they are soft iirc. I see they are suitable for ages 3 and up.
http://calicocritters.com/meet-the-critters
Forgot to add the Critters are recommended for ages 3 up to 7.Oh well.
Over And Out said... 81
michaelaaaaa_xo
today in biology, we talked about how often certain organisms can reproduce& my teacher mentioned @kateplusmy8. i got so happy.
=======
Oh. My. Word.
Wait until she shows up on psychology books as a classic case of narcissism and greed gone bad.
++++++++++
So did the teacher call KK a parasite.-LOL
Former Nixon aide claims he has evidence Lyndon B. Johnson arranged John F. Kennedy's assassination in new book
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Have you ever watched any of the documentaries on the assassination -- the conspiracy theories, the role of the secret service, Mrs. Connally's testimonies -- all very interesting. The "Johnson did it" theory has been around since Day One. It was no secret that Johnson hated Robert Kennedy because the President favored his brother over the vice president. In fact, President Kennedy even sent Johnson on a long trip overseas just to get him out of his hair. There was no love between the President and the Vice President. Johnson wanted more power and the President wasn't about to give it to him.
A good read is "A Texan Looks at Lyndon: A Study In Illegitimate Power" by J. Evetts Haley, an oldie (1964), but interesting nonetheless.
But another book on this? Yawn...
Sherry Baby said... 72
I just read that insane piece of drivel that Shoka "wrote." What in the heck was that? Kate is really scaring me...
She can't write, even if she takes on the persona of a dog. She needs to stop and spare herself such embarrassment.
************************************************
Poor Shoka also wrote this:
Dear Kate,
STOP putting words in my effin' mouth- I'm a dog.
Why do you insist on embarrassing me?
Take your meds.
Seriously,
-Shoka
Whoa remember when someone posted the other day the Kitchen Nightmare episode where the gal looked like Kate? Apparently she's more similar than we thought. She's been having an epic meltdown on Facebook this week calling people nasty names and saying it's a witch hunt and all it's doing is egging people on making them post nastier and nastier comments. Some nasty comments about her are getting thousands of likes. It's sad but funny. And also proves the point if you don't want haters you don't have to go on tv, simple as that.
OMG! I saw that too!
Amy behaves EXACTLY like Kate- absolutely FRIGHTENING.
For anyone curious, go to Youtube for Part 1 & 2:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6LY7TJ16pg
and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQDtoHpAWhg
Joy -- I was thinking about you earlier. You're not going to be happy with DWTS next season. They've chopped it to one two-hour show on Mondays, doing away with the Tuesday show. Ratings are down so much because apparently viewers are tired of all the "filler" production and chatter, so they're combining everything into one night.
I posted this on the last blog. Thought I'd give you a laugh so I brought it over.
OT. I had to take mom to the ER sat. because she fell and got a goose egg the size of a baseball. If you remember, I take care of mom, humm..guess not so well. lol. Anyway, she told a funny joke to the nurse out of the blue, it made me think of Kate and her plastic surgery's. It went like this, "how do you get the wrinkles out of the face of an elderly lady? You take off her bra! I laughed so hard and thought of Kate. Now we know what she means by "good bra". lol hehe
Realitytvkids.com (Administrator) said... 99
Whoa remember when someone posted the other day the Kitchen Nightmare episode where the gal looked like Kate? Apparently she's more similar than we thought.
*******
The parallels are a bit uncanny when it comes to spinning why people hate her. It's the same drivel without any basis: jealous, "haters", and lots of invoking being chosen by God and God's will blah, blah.
This "Amy" is definitely off the reservation. I'm watching this freak show on YouTube, not believing my eyes.
I know we say Kate's goes on "scorched earth" offense/defense, but Amy goes and carpet bombs Dresden.
Melissa NV said... 101
*****
The Tues. show is a waste. I personally don't like the production numbers with the "pros" because they are ALL THE SAME.
Flail head violently and flick hair- check
Look mean, like you're really mad and having a bowel movement all at the same time - check
Do that swooping backwards motion as you hump the guys leg- check
Lather. Rinse. Repeat.
A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said... 100
OMG! I saw that too!
Amy behaves EXACTLY like Kate- absolutely FRIGHTENING.
****
That Amy could lie about baking the pastries without so much as blinking if frightening. Her sense that she's got some sort of God given talent for all things culinary is laughable.
The only thing I could think of is that Amy doesn't need recipes either, because, you know, she's a REAL cook.
A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said... 100
OMG! I saw that too!
Amy behaves EXACTLY like Kate- absolutely FRIGHTENING.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Have you read her comments on her FB page? She's nuts!
A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said... 100
OMG! I saw that too!
Amy behaves EXACTLY like Kate- absolutely FRIGHTENING.
For anyone curious, go to Youtube for Part 1 & 2:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6LY7TJ16pg
and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQDtoHpAWhg
(((((((((((((
She even calls the people who comment on blogs about her "haters". She's convinced her food is great and there is a conspiracy of haterz
Melissa NV said... 97
Former Nixon aide claims he has evidence Lyndon B. Johnson arranged John F. Kennedy's assassination in new book
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Have you ever watched any of the documentaries on the assassination -- the conspiracy theories, the role of the secret service, Mrs. Connally's testimonies -- all very interesting. The "Johnson did it" theory has been around since Day One. It was no secret that Johnson hated Robert Kennedy because the President favored his brother over the vice president. In fact, President Kennedy even sent Johnson on a long trip overseas just to get him out of his hair. There was no love between the President and the Vice President. Johnson wanted more power and the President wasn't about to give it to him.
A good read is "A Texan Looks at Lyndon: A Study In Illegitimate Power" by J. Evetts Haley, an oldie (1964), but interesting nonetheless.
*******************
Oh yeah I did a term paper on it in High School. The wink picture had my ex convinced LBJ was involved.
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=105x429959
Kate is just trying to draw people to her web site by posting the pictures in dribs and drabs and posting a new Shoka diary in the hopes that people will see her book advertised and order it. Her sales thus far are beyond dismal for the number of fans she supposedly has. I guess only a hound or so of those 8 million "unique" hits on her website are ordering the book.
Ashley Tisdale's legitimately freaked out ... after an obsessed fan sent more than 18,000 tweets to the actress and then showed up to her home, TMZ has learned.
_______________
From TMZ: "The tweets are pretty creepy -- the person (believed to be a man) seems to be delusional, writing as if the two have some sort of ongoing relationship."
Sounds like someone we "know" -- someone who, the other night, tweeted the following:
MiloandJack
@Kateplusmy8 Ummm, 2the "misinformed person" questioning where Shoka is...he's safe/dry & warm here in Kate's HOUSE in his bed! :)
MiloandJack
@Kateplusmy8 I've got all 6 in TIME OUT..now what? (Somehow I feel like Kate one-upped me on this!) She's snoozin & I'm losin my mind! :)
MiloandJack
@Kateplusmy8 Oh good idea Alexis...Kate I'll stay up & oversee them...they R in safe hands here!
You just never know with these people. Kate needs to be careful. Unless, of course, Milo is Kate and she's sitting back, laughing her head off at so many people worrying about what a delusional, obsessed fan is capable of doing.
Apparently she's more similar than we thought. She's been having an epic meltdown on Facebook this week calling people nasty names and saying it's a witch hunt and all it's doing is egging people on making them post nastier and nastier comments.
________________
"Perhaps even more peculiar is Samy Bouzaglos' declaration that he is noting down all the names of his Facebook critics and will pursue legal action against them."
Calling Bullyville! Just like Kate!
"http://news.cnet.com/8301-17852_3-57584445-71/tv-bakery-enjoys-astonishing-facebook-melt-down/
I wasn't denigrating anyone's position, nor was I casting shade on anyone's character. I was copy/pasting actual text from a newspaper article for someone who couldn't find it.
In an ideal world, the questions we ask--the assertions we make--would be able to stand on their own, set apart from our personal feelings about someone we've never met. But for the record, I'm not a conspiracy theorist, nor have I ever been. Neither am I am one to accept everything I read at face value. I don't consider myself qualified to draw conclusions from single-sourced evidence.
Same goes for that newspaper article as with Admin's wonderful interview with Chip. I complimented Admin for landing an engaging interview with an authentic-sounding young man. That said, I don't think it's beyond the realm of decency to interject additional source material into the conversation, or to pose questions about someone's patterns of behaviors & motivations.
We speculate about Kate's words, behavior & motives all the time, do we not? People bring source material here from all over the place, to help scaffold their opinions about her. We've gained a broader perspective, a deeper understanding over time, because we've cast the net far and wide.
If you take umbrage with my position, so be it. Good people can and do have honest disagreements. But please don't attack me/other people for approaching an idea (an article, an opinion) differently than you do.
Tucker's mom 76...
I think they bought this house rather than build for a few reasons. In Roberts book, one of the emails stated the cost to build the house would be about 1.3 million, excluding price of land. Also, Kate was getting increasingly agitated about their lack of space and security issues in the old house. Now security issues to her we're the fact that people could ring her doorbell. She wanted a gated residence where people were kept out. This was before paparazzi. I also think she was desperate to get away from Jon. The new house gave him the apartment over the garage, which he shared with the crew, by the way.
Kate was getting more and more demanding and this house was actually cheaper, including renovations, than building one. They never would have been able to deal with her with the time it would take to build a home.
Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump
"Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm." -
Winston Churchill
Kate Gosselin @Kateplusmy8
@realDonaldTrump I LOVE this... So true!;)
--------------
I guess Kate's admitting she goes from one failure to another?
Did Kate use the words "doggone" and "non-furry friends" in Shoka's diary this time? She must think it's hysterically funny every time she does it.
This "Amy" is definitely off the reservation. I'm watching this freak show on YouTube, not believing my eyes.
I know we say Kate's goes on "scorched earth" offense/defense, but Amy goes and carpet bombs Dresden.
-----------
They are now claiming that their FB was hacked and Amy didn't write those comments or have a melt-down. Posts were removed. It's funny that some of the things "she" says she didn't write there, and the phrasing, echo her own words on the show. Samy says he has notified the FBI. In addition, he says he is going after all who have commented:
"This is Samy. I am keeping note of all names here. We will be pursuing action against you legaly, and against reddit and yelp, for this plot you have come together on. you are all just punks."
Gordon was smart in distancing himself from those two crazies.
Somewhere in the vacant recesses of Kate's mind, her 'littles' will still be relevant and some university will offer them scholarships just for the publicity value. What Kate doesn't realize is, it's not the 70s or 80s anymore. Universities no longer do that. They have more applicants with paying parents and/or student loans than they can accept.
The comment from Amy in the show says it all. In response to the criticism she says all these haters just want to f$&@ with me.
No Amy, they just don't like the food. People like her are unable to comprehend the idea that it's not personal or wasn't at first. Bad food is just bad food. But now since they've been so nasty back to their haters they made it personal. I love the FBI and suing comment. Shades of bullyville! Whatever happened to bullyville coming to the rescue of Kate and the wronged sheeple anyway? They filled their heads with promises of a sweeping lawsuit then abandoned them. Anyone they ever go after will probably be ready with their SLAPP motion to dismiss. So sad.
Realitytvkids.com (Administrator) said... 118
******
The more I watched of this episode, the more it was shades of Kate. The eye rolling, the victim role and the most salient comparison would be that Gordon didn't know how to help Amy and he stood against her, not with her, therefore, got that wrath from Hell.
Cut off like a coyote chewing it's trapped leg off.
Samy's threats are a joke. In fact, if anyone should bring legal action it's the customer he assaulted at the door.
To quote "Veep", that restaurant is a salad spinner of f*ck.
Melissa NV said... 106
A Pink Straight Jacket For Kate said... 100
OMG! I saw that too!
Amy behaves EXACTLY like Kate- absolutely FRIGHTENING.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Have you read her comments on her FB page? She's nuts!
*******************************************
No, but now I'm really curious!
I think they bought this house rather than build for a few reasons.
-------------------------------------
They bought this house for one reason -- to be able to continue filming. Their E-town house, located on a cul de sac, was in a community that was zoned residential. Their filming, with the crew and vans all over the place was not looked upon favorably by the neighbors. If they were to stay there and film there would have been zoning issues. They didn't want that. The television show was a huge commercial enterprise. They needed to find a place where they could film without the township on their backs. Kate may have claimed it was because of security and space, but the bottom line was that in order to film they had to get out of town.
"This was before paparazzi."
--------------------------
No, this was at the height of the paparazzi. They were all over the place.
How long before TLC approaches Amy & Samy with a reality show?
Oooooo... that would piss Kate off so badly.
Tweet-le De Tweet-le DUMB said... 114
Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump
"Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm." -
Winston Churchill
Kate Gosselin @Kateplusmy8
@realDonaldTrump I LOVE this... So true!;)
--------------
I guess Kate's admitting she goes from one failure to another?
____
Well that's one thing she's good at failing lol.
Okay so my background is white.
Is it really white or have I been in the sun to long?-(LOL)
jayvn_simpson
@Kateplusmy8 How old are they boys now?
Hmmm...let's see. The girl tups are nine, and the boys just had their eighth birthday. Eye roll here.
miloandjack
@gillianak @Kateplusmy8 Kate may not catch ur tweet..so I can tell U she has answered this many times...Nala was adopted 2another loving hm!
miloandjack
@gillianak @Kateplusmy8 Kate had her hands full as a single Mom w/8 kids just bringing ONE dog Shoka back...two was too much! :)
Milo is answering for Kate. If I were Kate, I would have put an end to this yesterday. This obsession would drive me nuts.
Is it just wishful thinking on my part, or does it seem that Kate is finally on her last leg as far as any type of celebrity goes?
Watching the Restaurant Nightmare videos I was in my own nightmare. I definitely saw Kate in there, but I also saw that Amy has the same facial features as a woman I live near. She is known to be an "I can do anything better than you" kind of person whose ego knows no bounds.
Same expressions, same eye rolls, same speech patterns. And her name is Kate! My head was spinning.
"They bought this house for one reason -- to be able to continue filming. "
&&&&
Yes, and she wanted to be "one up on" Beth.
Ally, I don't know if you ever read Walt's blog, but here's the link:
http://learningmylines.blogspot.com/2009/06/jon-kate-too-late.html
Does the Irish Creeper sound more and more like Milo?
irishfan47
@Kateplusmy8 Evening, what r u up to? Did the kids like the joke? Simba was moving too slow... so i told him to Mufasa..:)
I was going to say too, this is karma when karma actually works.
They served bad food, had terrible service and were rude and threatening to customers with legitimate complaints. You don't get to cry foul when they finally have had enough and fight back. It's almost like people took every pent up feeling they have ever had for bad restaurants and have just let it all out on this couple. It really is quite a sight to watch go down.
Have you read her comments on her FB page? She's nuts!
*******************************************
No, but now I'm really curious!
&&&
The facebook page has thousands of comments so it's almost hard to find hers in there but I see a few F bombs in there before she claimed the boogy man hacked her account.
The one comment someone made "Never go full retard," a reference to Tropic Thunder, has something like 1400 likes.
This whole thing is so crazy I almost want to do a post on it....hate to leave Chip so soon though!
This whole thing is so crazy I almost want to do a post on it....hate to leave Chip so soon though!
-----
-----
Don't leave Chip! The Amy Wacko just wants attention. She and passive-aggressive hubby both need some serious counseling!
I just watched Kitchen Nightmares. Shaking my head. How has that marriage survived 10 years? The restaurant won't.
Searching for something positive to say -- ok, got it. Thank God they have 3 cats and not 3 kids.
Re Dancin With Them Thar Stars: my dh had already told me about the planned change for next season. I think it will be good to change things. I usually record the results show and fast forward past the boring parts.
I'm watching the results show tonight as it airs on east coast. The marvelous Saint Tony of the Ballroom is back dancing with Anna Trebunskaya. I do love me some Tony!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/14/amys-baking-company-kitchen-nightmares_n_3274345.html?ncid=edlinkusaolp00000003&ir=TV
Great article on Huffington Post about Amy's Baking Company and Kitchen Nightmares. I watched the show earlier - it's available On Demand, if your cable company offers that service - and after 10 minutes, made some popcorn. The resemblance to Kate is uncanny.
May 14, 2013 at 6:05 PM
Dmasy said... 133
I just watched Kitchen Nightmares. Shaking my head. How has that marriage survived 10 years? The restaurant won't.
Searching for something positive to say -- ok, got it. Thank God they have 3 cats and not 3 kids.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Unfortunately, in a couple of her Facebook posts last night she said they were going to be starting a family. She was blabbing about their child and what a good mom she'd be. She deleted those posts today, in addition to deleting the posts where she cursed everyone out and dropped F bombs in the same sentences that she talked about God. They're both nutcases, and she definitely has a persecution complex.
The deleted Facebook posts are all here:
http://eater.com/archives/2013/05/14/kitchen-nightmares-facebook-freakout.php
I found the following comment on Reddit regarding Amy's Kitchen Nightmares episode. He claimed to be a reality TV show production Assistant who worked on TLC shows along with others. Just thought it was interesting.
Every time I've been on location (I've worked on Hoarders, My Strange Addiction, other TLC and A&E shows) it's shocked me how much people allow themselves to be overwhelmed by the thirst for fame and notoriety that they lose sight of what you and I see when we watch. In fact, the producers on location count on that in order to get some of the best drama, etc. There will be a camera running at all times, and a second cameraman is always ready to hit record in case tempers flare or something happens that will boost ratings.
Also, we sometimes do things to increase tension between those being documented. Everyone is interviewed so that we have a better idea of how to create situations like this.
The producers make sure as much is caught on camera (good and bad) as possible, but we actively seek out and/or create the bad when necessary.
Reality TV is deceptive dehumanization. It's impossible to convey the self-loathing that I feel when a shoot wraps and the subjects want to shake my hand for "helping." It's fucking depressing.
Sorry. That turned into a rant.
Sophie
I like how when the lady was trying to elicit sympathy because of her "online bullies" and blame their bad food on the "bullies." She says she writes back to them on Yelp and argues with them.
Gordon Ramsey looked at her with that classic confused look he often gives people and basically said okay.....why would you respond to them? Then he said um look it's the restaurant business you have to have a thick skin.
This is one of the few times I was cheering Gordon Ramsey on! LOL.
The facebook page has thousands of comments so it's almost hard to find hers in there but I see a few F bombs in there before she claimed the boogy man hacked her account.
&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Admin, you can go here to see her posts (in all caps) and his. Her :"ressling" is "reselling."
http://cheezburger.com/76549
This was one of Amy's responses written in 2010 to a person who reviewed the restaurant.
8/2/2010
Dear Joel,L. It is blatantly obvious to me why you were ALONE on a Saturday night!
Read any of the reviews that have been written about us and you will see that EVERYONE loves us!! The only people that don't is our "Competition". We knew you had been sent by another restaurant before you even ordered your $14.00 Pizza.
The Pizza was fresh and amazing. The reason the tomatoes had different texture was because I use three different heirloom tomatoes and some of them are sundried. So of course they are going to have a different texture from the fresh ones!!!
But perhaps you are only accustomed to tasting the ones that come "fresh from the can!"
Moving on to the "Store bought Dough" Comment. PLEASE!! My dough is made fresh every day from 100% organic ingredients. Perhaps your palate is not sophisticated enough to tell the difference.
As for you having the Patio all to yourself unless you have been living on another PLANET it is summertime in ARIZONA MORON!!! Only TRAMPS and LOSERS want to sit outside in 110 temperatures!!!!
And if you get lucky maybe you can even dig up someone up to take with you so you can share a $5.00 Falafel.
Do US a favor and keep your ugly face and you ugly opinions to yourself and go back to the restaurant that you really work at!!"
EVERYONE loves us!
100% organic ingredients.
So of course they are going to have a different texture from the fresh ones!!!
&&&
Omg shades of Kate! They are multiplying. She even overuses exclamation points.
This is insane how similar this is. Never seen anything like it. When a poster here (I cannot remember who, please come forward :)) posted that link saying it was like Kate I was thinking ehh looks a little like her is nasty like her, it stops there. Now I get it.
You know what I love....how everyone is calling them out on their crap. how they're not getting away with this. Because they shouldn't get away with it.
Comments about Kitchen Nightmares made me curious. I googled and found an article in Forbes by Kelly Clay, ” Lessons from Amy s Baking Company, Six things you should never do on social media.” Some of the lessons include ”don't insult people” and ”learn when to walk away”, and the writer added a final lesson after the couples response: ”don't lie”.
That reminds me, I once left a respectful, but negative review of an establishment somewhere can't remember where, because of a very serious issue that had to do with a recall of a product. Although I don't review much I don't think I've ever left anything but a four or five star review until that one.
Within 12 hours the owner himself came on, apologized, promised he would speak with his employees about the matter, correct it, and that he sincerely hoped I would give them a second chance.
Guess what I DID. Why wouldn't I with such a heartfelt response like that? What is the point of being so nasty to people who might just come back if you just own up to what you did and vow to fix it?
LOL don't lie. Yeah that helps.
It's so hysterical to me the way this is catching on like a firestorm. And much like other narcissists we know, it's because THEY are making it go on. They should have just gone away after that episode aired and it all would have died down. Instead they threw lighter fluid on it.
Another similarity that I noticed between Kate and Amy is the use of !!!! I so want to go and visit ABC the next time I visit my sib in Scottsdale.
Goody2shoes is at it again eye roll.
Seriously does she have mental issues is she obsessed with Jon & Robert and slamming them.
KK doesn't defend her self about Roberts book so why does Goody?
"Look at your eyes. Look how BITTER you are." --Gordon Ramsey.
Ha, she wants a drink of water! Bet she wouldn't give one to anyone else.
kateplusmy8
@MiloandJack aw... And I fully believe you will! Keep your chin up and prove em all wrong.... I know you operate same way I do :)
Exactly how do you and Milo "operate?"
Regarding the fire that claimed the lives of two adults and four children in Pottsville. There is a benefit planned. So far I don't believe Kate has been asked to be the star attraction, but the SweetBren lady tweeted:
@GMA @JoshElliottABC hi josh do you remember me from @GAA ? That is my where I live were the fire was Pottsville Pa. So sad
Kind of like Kate, making it about her, to get a news anchor's attention.
@RonEClaiborne @GMA You look great! in the hat :) ps... watch those drinks you fit the profile lol - I dont drink so you would be safe w/me
Starstruck and thinks these people "know" her. Look out, Kate...you will be asked to dig into your supply of books to sell and sign at the benefit! More Uggs for you?
Has Amy blamed editing yet? I saw this the night it aired and thought of Kate the whole time. Someone should send the link to her twitter.
Improbable Dreams said... 112
I hold your words with/in high esteem. Bravo! Well said!
I just watched the first party of the Kitchen Nightmare show. Oh my goodness, where to start. Amy only wanted Chef Ramsey there to validate how wonderful her food is, not to help her do the work necessary to get good reviews. The control freak husband, not giving the wait staff their tips and not telling his wife what people said about her food. The control freak wife who fills orders one at a time and makes people wait so long. And of choose they would have no trouble in their delusional world if only those bullies who write their opinions could be silenced! Thanks for mentioning this show everyone. Amazing chef Ramsey stayed as long as he did.
Does anyone remember Margaret Perrin from Wife Swap? I see shades of her in Amy too.
...and why is Kate trying to drive traffic to her website? .....
Thank you Chip McClure for the interview with Admin. I remember watching some of Jessica's rescue. I am happy to hear she has such good parents and a good life.
The Huffingon Post asked why they wanted to be on tv.
Because in their delusional minds, this is great publicity. And sadly they probably will get gawkers who will come in not for the food but to watch these two self destruct.
It sounds like they're having a baby too. Wow. Just wow.
Definitely Kate's long lost sister, possibly her twin.
Interesting - Amy may be an alias
http://sanfrancisco.grubstreet.com/2013/05/amy-bouzaglo-scottsdale-kitchen-nightmares-freakout.html
http://blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com/bella/2012/12/amys_baking_company_kitchen_nightmares_gordon_ramsay_scottsdale_arizona_taping.php?page=2
(Look for comments from AmyisaFelon and Cyberpastor for more details.)
http://www.plainsite.org/flashlight/case.html?id=20189
Meagler said... 152
...and why is Kate trying to drive traffic to her website? .....
---------------------
I know. Every 3rd or 4th tweet directs you to her website. Obviously trying to increase numbers, but why now?
Realitytvkids.com (Administrator) said... 143
That reminds me, I once left a respectful, but negative review of an establishment somewhere can't remember where, because of a very serious issue that had to do with a recall of a product. Although I don't review much I don't think I've ever left anything but a four or five star review until that one.
Within 12 hours the owner himself came on, apologized, promised he would speak with his employees about the matter, correct it, and that he sincerely hoped I would give them a second chance.
Guess what I DID. Why wouldn't I with such a heartfelt response like that? What is the point of being so nasty to people who might just come back if you just own up to what you did and vow to fix it?
---------------
That's the problem with narcissists. They will never admit to any wrong doing, at their own personal expense/demise. Not capable of it.
Anonymous said... 138
*******
That was an interesting post, Sophie, but not at all surprising. You'd have to be living in a hermetically sealed bubble, in another solar system, with your head surgically implanted up your butt to not realize that RTV shows are not real.
RTV shows, while "not scripted" are highly produced, predetermined story arcs based on the characters that are cast. Cast members are manipulated, then edited and the end product is whatever the editing team and producers sew together to make a ratings-ready episode.
That said, they can't put words in your mouth or make you act out if you're not so inclined.
Amy is a very simple creature who is driven by her ego and delusions, in other words, a producer's wet dream. Her buttons couldn't have been easier to push.
I have to admit to being quite amused and kudos to GR and his team for capturing lightning in a bottle. That episode and the viral fallout has been a ratings bonanza.
Real Housewives Of Scottsdale, anyone?
Meagler at 152~This is not a conspiracy theory, lol, but I do think something's up with all of Kate's recent efforts to drive traffic to her website. It's akin to her holding that contest right before Kateplus8 got cancelled--remember that?
Witness, the latest example:
@Kateplusmy8 Questions for me? Go here: http://t.co/lLIAaeYBWJ to ask them. Put 'Ask Kate' in subj line! I'll POST ANSWERS TO TOP 10 QUESTIONS TODAY!
Terri said... 126
Is it just wishful thinking on my part, or does it seem that Kate is finally on her last leg as far as any type of celebrity goes?
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Not really. Just about any "tv personality" can get gigs for years and years based on the plethora of "Celebrity" based shows out there. I think Kate will continue to pop up on shows like CWS, but I don't think Kate will be given the opportunities she was given at the height of the pre/post divorce frenzy, simply because she does not have that "watchability" factor that draws people in (save for a handful of her die-hard fans, which aren't many).
I say this, divorcing my personal feelings about her using her children and selling their childhoods. I truly don't think she has excelled in her attempts at TV/media, cooking, photography and in particular, writing (abysmal). If Kate could have been the next Martha Stewart without using her kids (as Martha did), I'd support her, I really would.
I know. Every 3rd or 4th tweet directs you to her website. Obviously trying to increase numbers, but why now?
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Ooh, Ooh, Mista Kottah!! Pick me!
What do you see first thing when you go to Kate's website? That's right, half the page, top of page (or above the natural screen break on your computer--a blogger trick to drive focus) is an advertisement for Kate's cookbook.
Kate is trying to sell books, that's all.
Hey, I think Kate and Amy should have an organic pizza cook off! They could use a squealometer to determine the winner.
Margaret Perrin from Wife Swap passed a couple of years ago. Her eldest daughter was killed in a car accident a couple years prior to that. I remember both of the shows she "swapped" places. The second show she seemed to be calmer, but the first time she was batsh*t crazy. It scared her kids, the camera crew everyone. I would never put myself or my family out there like these people do.
Anonymous said... 157
Meagler said... 152
...and why is Kate trying to drive traffic to her website? .....
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I know. Every 3rd or 4th tweet directs you to her website. Obviously trying to increase numbers, but why now?
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I was wondering that too until someone here pointed out that her book is advertised on her website. Her tweet links go to the homepage where her book is advertised.
It was Marguerite Perrin, sorry for not spelling her name correctly.
The facebook page has thousands of comments so it's almost hard to find hers in there but I see a few F bombs in there before she claimed the boogy man hacked her account.
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Here are a few I found on another site. I'm guessing the all caps are her and lower case are his:
19 hours ago:
I AM NOT STUPID ALL OF YOU ARE. YOU JUST DO NOT KNOW GOOD FOOD. IT IS NOT UNCOMMON TO RESELL THINGS WALMART DOES NOT MAKE THEIR ELECTRONICS OR TOYS SO LAY OFF!!!!
16 hours ago:
WE DO NOT NEED THIS. YOU STUPID PEOPLE. AMERICA IS ABOUT RESSLING, IT IS NOT A BIG DEAL. THE CAKES WE OFFER ARE EXPENSIVE BECAUSE WE HAVE TO REPACKAGE AND SHIP. DO NOT BLAME US BECAUSE YOU CAN NOT AFFORD QUALITY. THE YELPERS, AND NOW THE REDDITS, NEED TO BACK OFF. YOURE NOT RIGHT JUST BECAUSE OF SOME TV SHOW.
16 hours ago:
To all of the Yelpers and Reddits: Bring it on. you are just pussies. come to arizona. you are weaker than my wife, and weaker than me. come to my business. say it to my face. man to man. my wife is a jewel in the desert. you are just trash. reddits and yelpers just working together to bring us down. pathetic.
15 hours ago:
TO REDDIT. I FORBID YOU FROM SPREADING YOUR HATE ON THAT SITE. THIS IS MY FACEBOOK, AND I AM NOT ALLOWING YOU TO USE MY COMPANY ON YOUR HATE FILLED PAGE.
15 hours ago:
This is Samy. I am keeping note of all names here. We will be pursuing action against you legaly, and against reddit and yelp, for this plot you have come together on. you are all just punks.
15 hours ago:
WE ARE NOT FREAKING OUT. WE DO NOT CARE ABOUT A “WITCH HUNT” I AM NOT A WITCH. I AM GODS CHILD. PISS OFF ALL OF YOU. FUCK REDDITS, FUCK YELP AND FUCK ALL OF YOU. BRING IT. WE WILL FIGHT BACK.
14 hours ago:
YOU DONT KNOW US!! WE WILL THRIVE! WE WILL OVERCOME! WE ARE STARTING OUR FAMILY, AND WE WILL TEACH OUR CHILD EXACTLY WHAT >>GOD<< WANTS IN THEIR PATH. WE WILL TEACH THEM HOW TO FIGHT AGAINST OPRESSORS LIKE YOU PEOPLE! WE WILL START A GENERATION OF TRUTHFULLNESS AND WE WILL FIGHT TO BRING PLACES LIKE, YELP AND REDDIT, AND HORRIBLE PEOPLE LIKE GORDON TO THE LIGHT
13 hours ago:
I AM WONDER WOMAN. I AM A GREAT CHEF, A GREAT WIFE, AND A GREAT MOM TO MY KIDS. AND WE WILL BE PARENTS TO A HUMAN KID, ONE DAY TO. WE WILL SHOW ALL OF YOU.
13 hours ago:
You people are all shit. Yelp shit, Reddits shit. Every shit. Come to here, I will fucking show you all.
13 hours ago:
You are all little punks. Nothing. you are all nothing. We are laughing at you. All of you, just fools. We have God on our side, you just have your sites.
handinhand, 166...thanks, I think.
That is a glimpse into delusional thinking.
Sorry to know they are planning a family.
I am wondering if they ignore ALL advice -- including spellcheck.
I am wondering if they ignore ALL advice -- including spellcheck.
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Spellcheck can F off! Jealous bullying hater!!!
Why is that I don't think they are laughing at their reviews?
Sorry to know they are planning a family.
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Ugh, I hope not. I don't know if there could be a worse reason than a convicted felon bringing a child into the world to show the "haters" who's got the last laugh.
A whole new low.
Anonymous said... 169
Why is that I don't think they are laughing at their reviews?
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I don't think so either. Samy is going to blow his squash before he gets a laugh out of any dissenting opinions.
Kimberly Piagentini @KAGoalie 2h
@Kateplusmy8 YOU ARE NOT A CELEBRITY JUST A NASTY WOMAN GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES GOOD WOMEN WOULD DIE FOR! BURY YOUR HEAD IN SAND!
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Janelle Howell @nelliemuz 3h
@Kateplusmy8 Do you think you may have an update show in the future?x
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I wanna know this to.-(snark)
Another thing I liked about Gordon Ramsey's approach is that when he arrived at the restaurant, almost immediately Amy wanted to tell him about the "online bullies." She is obsessed and consumed with what a bunch of strangers say about her on the internet. Gordon Ramsey was like, well hold on, I want to see your kitchen and I want to taste your food first. His focus was on what really mattered, the food and the kitchen. She just couldn't get him all that interested in her anti bullying campaign, because as he said, you have to have thick skin who cares? He was so spot on and in my opinion, this is exactly how most people think. That there is no online bullying here, there were legitimate bad reviews that they made the mistake of lashing out about which started a nasty, though pretty justified, response from the wider general public. And that who cares, the point is, is your food good or not?
He seemed to love Amy's baking. Maybe they should throw in the towel on the restaurant and focus on the baking and expand the baking. And they kept an immaculate and organized kitchen which he also gave them high praise for. Many places he's been have been disgusting.
He seemed to love Amy's baking. Maybe they should throw in the towel on the restaurant and focus on the baking and expand the baking.
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Not so much. It was revealed that Amy purchased the baked goods from another party, after claiming to GR that she made them. Pretty bad.
The Huffingon Post asked why they wanted to be on tv.
Because in their delusional minds, this is great publicity. And sadly they probably will get gawkers who will come in not for the food but to watch these two self destruct.
&&&&
They also said on the show they wanted to go on to prove to the online haters that their food is great and their . She said she wanted to tell them Gordon Ramsey loves their food so there!
It really is the height of delusion. Everybody else is wrong, but this top chef will show them. Then, she just couldn't handle it when Gordon Ramsey became a hater and bully too. That was so different than the plan in her mind of how this would go on she just had an absolute meltdown.
I think it's more than narcissism. I think she's a sociopath too. I'm not at all surprised her criminal record is compromised of fraud and identity theft. Those seem like classic criminal activities for someone like that.
He seemed to love Amy's baking. Maybe they should throw in the towel on the restaurant and focus on the baking and expand the baking
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I'm pretty sure that Amy does NOT bake those pastries. She resells them. Interestingly, on food boards, posters noted the lack of pastry baking equipment in that very small kitchen.
No Hobart=no baking.
Now, we didn't see all of the kitchen, but I believe that it was Amy who defending her "ressling" of baked goods by comparing it to Walmart selling products that other people make.
And it fits. None of their pasta/gnocchi was home made and while I truly believe homemade pastas can be a revelation compared to frozen products, Sysco turns out pretty delicious cakes.
Now, if you believe that, and I do, watch how many times Amy takes credit for the cakes.
I'll believe she made the cakes when Kate admits to her boob job (s).
Ohhh....that's what the Walmart comment was about. I'm surprised they didn't clarify that on the show. That was really restrained of them. The average person who may not go online wouldn't know that. Although now I do remember Gordon asking many times YOU made those, YOU??? As in he wasn't sure he believed her.
I laughed at the Walmart comment. What a ridiculous comparison. Walmart is not trying to sell you the concept that they MAKE the products they sell. They simply gather many other people's products in one place. But it's assumed that a fine dining restaurant, unless they say otherwise, makes their own food. That's what you are paying for in the first place. If you want someone else's food to be heated up, there's Stouffer's for that.
I took a look at a map and know exactly where Amy's place is. I am so going there if they're still open in Hyde fall!
I think that Kate has been told that if pre-orders on her book don't pick up it won't be published. My guess is that she's got to guarantee a certain number in order to make it worth printing. She is doing everything possible to direct people to her site, pictures of the kids, new Shoka diary and now questions to be asked And answered at that site only.
@Kateplusmy8: RT @Xxxxxxxx Thinking of ordering @Kateplusmy8 's new cook book :)
DO IT. YOU'LL BE SO GLAD YOU DID!📖📚📔
The twitterbots are out in force telling Kate why a great mom she is and telling her they've ordered or are thinking of ordering her book.
What's that smell drifting from rural PA to the Jersey shore? It's the smell of desperation and believe me it's not pleasant.
I understand some celebs do long release dates but the names tossed out are really huge powerhouses guaranteed to move some serious books. I think the long release date in this case was a critical error. By now most people have lost interest. And anyone who is just interested in it in passing is going to see, oh, it's not available yet, and probably not bother to pre-order it I'll wait until it comes out. But by that time they will have long forgotten about it. I just don't think she has the name or the interest base to do such a long release date. It probably would have been better to announce a release maybe two weeks in advance then go on a media campaign the day of the release.
now I do remember Gordon asking many times YOU made those, YOU??? As in he wasn't sure he believed her.
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The attention to detail, balance and plating were not evident in Amy's cooking, so how can she turn out such baking perfection?
It doesn't add up.
Extended release dates are for traditionally published books, are they not? (By that I mean, published with one of the major publishing houses, where the cogs turn more slowly.)
Her recent flurry of tweets designed to drive traffic to her website? They carry with them the whiff of desperation.
Aha! Kate's promising to take email questions and answer them on her "Ask Kate" portion of her website today. THAT'S how she's going to keep the hits coming. LOL
No media gigs again this week, Kate? *snark*
Amy's also has photos on Facebook and the website that have almost all been stolen from other websites, food blogs, Flicker, and stock photos. Since the show aired, people have been posting on their Facebook pics the link to where each one was taken from with no credit. She's been posting pics of food dishes and cakes on Facebook for the last two years, and trying to pass it off as her own food and desserts.
Some of the people on Facebook have been alerting other sites to the fact that Amy has taken their photos and passed off their work as her own creations. I saw one comment on Facebook where a bakery owner in Florida complained that it was her photo of her cakes.
They also stole the photos on their website. There's even a blog post on the website where she says she's busy coming up with new cake ideas and she has a few photos. Again, they've been lifted from other sites. I did an image search on one of her pics on the website, some henna cupcakes (white frosting, red henna designs), and found the blog they were on. It was a post from 2007, and there were a few recent comments on it from just the past few days trying to inform the blog owner that Amy used her pics.
Now, if she's such a wonderful pastry chef, why isn't she posting photos of her own creations? These people are total frauds. They'll probbaly close the restaurant, go bankrupt, and leave everyone else holding the bag.
I bet the numbers are in for April and they were not good, so the company is riding her telling her to get on this do something. I'm pretty sure the preorder determine how many they will print. The more the better so they can print in bulk.
Her web site was basically abandoned until about a week a go. All of a sudden it's ALL about her web site, which conveniently has the book plastered all over it. The sudden interest in inviting everyone to her web site is so transparent. Even throwing in a Shoka Diary when she hasn't done that in over six months is so obvious. Anything to get people clicking back over there again.
Whoa Loves to Read. I would be TICKED if I owned a bakery and another bakery was passing of my creation as their own.
If someone had lifted it quietly most people might say well okay please take it down and don't let it happen again. But there is a lot of momentum against her and I bet you there are people lining up to help you sue them if you want to. I see a pretty easy copyright suit right there. They might even be entitled to an estimated share of any profits brought it because of that photo. I wonder if this couple is nervous. The chocolate frosting is definitely hitting the fan. Her background consists of stealing a social security number and fraud. It was no skin off her back to steal someone else's creation and pass it off as her own. There is no remorse here, no sense that this is wrong.
I think that Kate has been told that if pre-orders on her book don't pick up it won't be published. My guess is that she's got to guarantee a certain number in order to make it worth printing.
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I tend to think so with this push to drive traffic to her book advertisement and all the sudden tweeting about Kate's book. Most seem to be young teens who don't cook, they're just "excited!!!!".
For what, I don't know.
****
Kate Gosselin @Kateplusmy8 42m
@SandieBellz I bought one for the 1st X w/in last yr- can't remember when but thought 'oh I'll help support older Pennsylvanians' 👴👵
Uh, like they helped you THOUSANDS of times, reaching into their purses to give you love offerings? Glad you could bring yourself to buy ONE.
Tucker's Mom said... 162
Ooh, Ooh, Mista Kottah!! Pick me!
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Tucker's Mom - Thanks for that nostalgic blast from the past. I had a yellow Horshack T-shirt in elem school. I would have worn it 7 days a week if my mom had let me. Loved that shirt. My poor mother, bartering just to get a shirt in the laundry :-) Good memories.
Improbable Dreams said... 160
@Kateplusmy8 Questions for me? Go here: http://t.co/lLIAaeYBWJ to ask them. Put 'Ask Kate' in subj line! I'll POST ANSWERS TO TOP 10 QUESTIONS TODAY!
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"TOP 10" LOL! Seriously, the only way Kate will get more than 10 questions is if Milo emails 11 of them.
Her recent flurry of tweets designed to drive traffic to her website? They carry with them the whiff of desperation.
*****
A whiff? More like a bit, fat, wet fart under a nun's habit.
(sorry if anyone is eating right now!)
Fired Up 4 Kate @MiloandJack 2h
@Kateplusmy8 HaHa...I'm going to bribe U here on twitter! Answer my question & I'll buy yet another #LoveIsInTheMix! LOL
_____
Ah so her biggest fan has to bribe her?
I wonder how many book had Milo brought all ready?
Improbable Dreams said... 160
Meagler at 152~This is not a conspiracy theory, lol, but I do think something's up with all of Kate's recent efforts to drive traffic to her website. It's akin to her holding that contest right before Kateplus8 got cancelled--remember that?
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Who could forget? This sudden asking people to go to her website does smell of desperation.
Kate Gosselin @Kateplusmy8 42m
@SandieBellz I bought one for the 1st X w/in last yr- can't remember when but thought 'oh I'll help support older Pennsylvanians' 👴👵
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Sorry, not buying it. Kate helps no one but herself!
Admin, I posted the link to Amy's Bakery. After seeing episode on TV I was amazed by the resemblance to Kate in every way. Her slamming around the kitchen, saying her food is the best, rude to her staff, Wow.
Had to wait a couple of day for it to hit youtube. Yes, we have seen Kreiders evil twin.
With all of the negative publicity I can picture some punks going in there just to provoke and get video to post on youtube.
Appropos of Jessica's story, the very same year, 1987, Cecilia Crocker was a 4-year old toddler and sole survivor of a terrible plane crash in Detroit, MI. Her parents and brother were all killed. From the article:
"She was raised in Alabama by her aunt and uncle who shielded her from the media and others who sought to delve into her unique past.
Crocker said the enormity of what had happened didn't really hit her for a while."
Yahoo article:
http://news.yahoo.com/survivor-1987-mich-plane-crash-breaks-silence-070432718.html
That's right, Kate, "unique" doesn't mean marketable or profitable.
Amy's reaction to the food runner was so out of proportion. The young lady asked, "Are you sure?" That's it. An attitude? You are fired? Amy stomped out of the kitchen and demanded that her husband fire the waitress -- in front of customers.
Either they edited out a sassy dialogue or Amy can't take a 3 word question without feeling attacked.
Either they edited out a sassy dialogue or Amy can't take a 3 word question without feeling attacked.
*****
I find Amy loathable, but think it must be hell to live life with such venom, hate and paranoia. To never know joy is truly hell on earth.
Yes, avoid her web site. Something is up. Maybe she has to have so many hits to be able to be a spokesperson for something.
Anonymous said... 193
Kate Gosselin @Kateplusmy8 42m
@SandieBellz I bought one for the 1st X w/in last yr- can't remember when but thought 'oh I'll help support older Pennsylvanians' ����
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Sorry, not buying it. Kate helps no one but herself!
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She brought a lottery ticket to help the good ol' state of PA.
Don't enter an industry that is BASED on public reaction and criticism if you don't like it. It's really not unlike the entertainment industry.
There are many other careers out there where the public isn't constantly criticizing you. But people like Amy and Kate don't get to set the agenda here and tell people they can't criticize in an arena that has a long standing tradition of welcoming feedback, even harsh feedback, from the public.
Amy either needs to get intensive therapy to learn how to deal with it, or pick a less public career that is not going to make her so unhappy.
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