Brenda's Survivor Blog!

Congrats to A Few Folks!

2013-05-16T22:27:00.002-04:00

Congratulations are in order to the Final 3 of this past season of Survivor Caramoan Fans vs Favorites!! It was not a shock to me to see these 3 sitting at the end as it was a predictable yet smart move.

Though I love Dawn, John Cochran's unanimous vote also wasn't a shock as I felt Dawn would get a bitter jury. Dawn played a more assertive game this season than the one she played during Survivor South Pacific. Plus she had a lot of really tough trying moments and we got to see a lot of emotion from her. But in the end she was able to bounce back and she definitely owned her game this season. In the end, Dawn showed that she was definitely one to be reckoned with and I am proud of her!

Of the 3, Sherri didn't show me much as I watched this season and I feel that she alienated the jury members in her response to Erik Reichenbach. I tend to think if she had played a more aggressive game then her moves would have been shown. I don't feel like I really got to know her and would loved to have seen more from her. I am thrilled for her though that she made the Final 3 and wish her continuing success!

I am definitely ecstatic over the win of John Cochran!!! He played a flawless game this season in all aspects. He didn't make enemies, he was able to take home 3 personal immunities plus he kept control in his favor when it mattered the most. Definitely a big turnaround from his former season as he showed a sense of confidence and maturity that he seemed to lack his first go round. I was not surprised to see him win it and hope this leads to bigger and better things for him!

Congrats also are in order to another favorite of mine, Malcolm Freberg on winning the Sprint Vote. Again I wasn't surprised as besides Cochran, Malcolm was the buzz this season. I wish him continued success!

Congrats are also in order to new mama, Brenda Lowe!! I am, of course, ecstatic for her and for her family!! I pulled for her this season also, as I loved her on her previous season of Survivor Nicaragua. She showed a lot of heart this season and I completely respect what she brought to the table. I also am happy that she and Dawn will be able to move forward and put things behind them. Survivor is definitely a game where sometimes you have to make the tough and what feels like incredibly brutal decisions in order to move forward. I was sad to see how it hurt Brenda, but at the same time I could see Dawn's (and Cochran's) reasoning. Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do, and remove the personal part of it out if you want to go forward. I could see both sides though and hope that the friendship continues to heal and thrive.

On a personal note, my favorite moment this season came when Malcolm played the HII at Tribal. It was a pretty fun moment and made for a wild Tribal. I enjoyed watching Philip Sheppard this season. Say what you want about The Specialist, but I definitely find him a lot of fun to watch!

On that note, I hope everyone has enjoyed this past season. I hope everyone has a wonderful summer and wish you all the best of blessings. Thanks for stopping by!

And Then There Was Dangrayne..An Episode of Firsts!

2012-11-03T21:55:00.002-04:00

Welcome to another week of my analysis. The merge I was looking forward to has occurred and as promised, it sure packed a lot in it. So many dynamics and so much to feature that it would take a couple blogs just to narrow down it all. I loved it and it was hands down the best episode of the season. Which goes to show that the remaining episodes have the promise to be intriguing and good as well. With that being said, let's explore a few things for a moment, then I'd like to hear your thoughts as well. Please feel free to post them in the comments area below.

Dangrayne?
What a really interesting name. I went and googled it looking for a definition and so far have come up with zero results. I am wondering if it is a nearby tribe or island maybe. I myself found it interesting that both tribes were told to pack and move. Normally, a tribe moves at merge to the better spot of the two tribes. so this is a first that I can recall or be aware of. The merge was interesting of course as we see certain cast making moves for positioning almost immediately. A bit on that in a minute. It's a no brainer that the unresolved conflicts cost former Tandang in that they targeted their own member at the outing. Plus now we see that a wake up call was all that Penner needed to be alerted to the fact that Kent/Williams are plotting his ouster. Obviously Penner's instincts were working OT and it saved him for the moment.

An Episode of Firsts!
In this past episode, we see a few Survivor firsts.

1. Of his two seasons, this is Scoop's first merge. Congrats Scoop!! In Season 2, his heartbreaking accident happened the day before the merging of their two tribes. So not only has Michael bested his previous Survivor experience and season, but he has possibly aligned himself with Kent/Williams. Plus in voting for Penner, he didn't upset the apple cart of Pete/Kent and their strategic plans for the first outing. Given the fact that Michael has had a target on his back where Pete was concerned and the other members of Tandang, his voting with Kent was the only move he could make to give him a shot at furthering an alliance and spare him an early ousting making him also a victim to Pete's agenda. My one concern for Michael now lies with Pete. I will cover ny thoughts on Pete in a few moments.

2. Tandang is the ONLY tribe ever in 25 seasons of Survivor to not visit Tribal Council until the merge! Galu and Koror both had Tribal Council outings pre-merge so Tandang now can say they hold that distinction as a tribe!

3. Denise Stapley will go down as the only cast member in 25 seasons to not miss a Tribal Council..... yet. She has been to all so far and as a credit to her this season, she is still alive and kicking in the game. Plus my girl won individual immunity first outing! I am rooting her on to attend each this season and hope she is there until the Final Tribal for the million.

Hallelujah! The Church lady found it...

It is no longer fully a secret to a couple people that Malcolm is in possession of a hidden immunity idol. Post merge while leaving an awkward moment in conversation between Abi Maria and RC, Lisa made a decision to dry out everyone's clothes while there was some sun. It was very thoughtful and sweet on Lisa's part, however in the process of looking through Malcolm's bag, she came across the little precious secret of a hidden immunity idol. Malcolm would shortly realize that she had discovered it and would approach her about it. In the convo, Malcolm referred to Lisa as his "second mama" and would bring her into his and Denise's ranks. Afterwards Malcolm was relieved that it was Lisa who happened upon the idol. saying "Hallelujah, the church lady found it!". I am thinking Malcolm feels he can trust Lisa and sees her as someone similar to Denise, whom he has grown to trust, as much as trust can be given in a game like Survivor. There is a bit of a snag in that Malcolm realizes he would have a tough sell in front of a jury against either Denise or Lisa. Also, Lisa thinks he might aim for her with the fact that she knows he has the idol. The fact that Lisa now has this info can only help her either way she decides to take it or not to take it. It opens up something more for her. From her remarks at Tribal, it sounds like she is still loyal to Tandang and Pete, so this may prove a factor against Malcolm at some point if Lisa decides to divulge info to him of this existing idol.

Secrets...

Speaking of Lisa, it looks like her "Facts Of Life" past is also known to Penner who has agreed to keep quiet on it. So far it appears both veteran players know, which makes me wonder if Denise or Jeff Kent may also know as well and haven't mentioned it. I seriously doubt at this point that if the secret were revealed that it would cost Lisa. It was a long time ago and she has gone onto other areas of her life. Lisa still is concealing it and so far if anyone else knows, no one else has let on. Same for Jeff's secret as a MLB player, no one else seems to know either. I recently listened to a fan based Survivor podcast that brought up this as a topic with Dr. Jill from Survivor Nicaragua (S21). On her season they had multi successful Super Bowl coach Jimmy Johnson who was on her tribe. Jill stated that his being successful on the outside and wealthy, in the end really held no importance as how the tribe looked at you was who contributed to the tribe and who wasn't contributing. That everybody out there was struggling to survive together and that's what factors into strategies and voting. That what you were and are out of the game wasn't as important as your value there. So maybe these secrets are really not as fatal as they think?

My Thoughts On Pete Yurkowski

The more I see of him of late, the more Pete is reminding me of Russell Hantz in game play. The only distinct difference is that Pete is not using the threats that Russell used to use to psychologically control people's voting and allegiance. In this episode, what I am seeing game map wise is that the power players are starting to broker and have made a summit just like the power brokers do on occasion at Camp David. It took no time at all for Pete and Jeff Kent to hold meeting. "I'll give you RC if you will give me Penner. Who doesn't go now will go next." That maybe how the next two might play out, but unless Kent can wrangle in more than Scoop and Carter, he may find himself expendable. Jeff has a good social game and is a competitive player. Pete in striking the deal with him is working towards all out control of the new merged tribe. By losing RC he is losing someone who challenges his authority and is a threat to him. Pete has an idol. Pete has the numbers. Pete has Abi Maria to stir the pot.

As it looks now, Pete Yurkowski is holding a deck of cards and is able to deal them out. He is undeniably the most lethal player this season. If he continues the subtle Hantz method he is employing, you may see him come Finals time. As he is showing how manipulatively capable he can be. He also holds an idol and is capable of winning challenges. Personally being a bit of a student of the game itself, I give props to Pete. But if there is anyone to watch out for in the game, it is definitely Pete. I see Kent and Pete as being competitive enough to clash at some point so I don't see much of a future there. I could be wrong though. It'll come down to who can outmaneuver the other and who can survive when the inevitable comes.

I also think that in casting a vote against Pete that Penner was trying to send a message. This message may cost him now or soon, we shall see. But the reality is in my opinion, that with giving him RC, this has given Pete some leverage which he now can wield and play with. He has set himself up well and now poses a genuine threat to anyone in the game. That's my take, please share what you think below.

Congrats also this week go to Carter Williams on winning male immunity! His responses to Jeff show he realizes more than what is being let on. He did a heckuva job and kudos go out to him! RC in the end was the first casualty. RC played a really strong game from the outset. I liked her tho and found her to be a strong female presence and competitor. I am sad to see her go.

Thanks For Stopping By!

Tonight as I prepared and composed my thoughts of this past episode, I listened to the online 24/7 Beatles radio station Beatles-a-rama. For those who enjoy the music of the Beatles or just great music in general, check this station out. Besides Beatles music, they have interesting, fun programs and related music from a decade that brought us some of the best music ever, the 60s! Definitely check out Beatlesarama and enjoy the next episode of Survivor Philippines. Until next time, keep your torch lights lit and have a fun week!

Check out the previous posts from this season and other Survivor related posts in these blog links below:
A Message From Gillian And Reality Rally 2013!
Let's Get Down and Dirty!
He's Got Swag!
Bittersweet Taste After
Chaos, Idols and Desperation
Make Mine Oreos Please
Zane-y Yet Memorable, Premiere Of Survivor Philippines
Reality Rally 2013 Game On!
Charles and Holly Hoffman At Republican National Convention 2012

A Message From Gillian and Reality Rally 2013!

2012-10-29T18:58:00.001-04:00

Below is a message from Reality Rally's creator, Gillian Larson. If you can, please help in some way. Thanks!

I am raising funds for Michelle's Place.
Please help if you can.
Every dollar helps.
Your donation is tax deductable so please donate if you can.

Please click on my fundraising link or go to Reality Rally website and go to 2013 Reality Star line up and find my name or mail a check to the address below.

After being booted from the TV show Survivor Gabon in 2008, I spent the next five weeks planning how I was going to use this remarkable experience for the good of others. The Reality Rally of Temecula Valley was born and resulted in a very successful weekend in April 2012. 96 Reality Stars and over 2000 people from Temecula and beyond joined local folks for a weekend of "Fun for Funds". On April 5th-7th 2013, Reality Rally will be back bigger and better!

This Amazing Race-type event will reach all points of Temecula, and will include meet and greets, parties, and the 4 hour " Amazing Race" type game for folks of any age and physical ability. Each team will have three fun public participants and one reality star. Not only will it promote Temecula and its businesses, but the event proceeds will go to a great local charity, Michelle's Place, the Women's Breast Cancer Resource Center in Temecula. For all the information on the Reality Rally, visit Reality Rally Official Website.

Michelle's Place is thrilled to be the recipient of the proceeds again this year. Proceeds will benefit local women and their families dealing with breast cancer. Michelle's Place provides free resources such as wigs, prosthesis, support groups, and lending library, survivor support system, weekly meditation and exercise classes and so much more. Specifically, proceeds from this event will fund their Breast Health Assistance program. This program provides free breast health services to uninsured women. Please visit Michelle's Place to learn more about this very worthwhile organization.

I know times are tough right now but I would so appreciate any amount you would be able to donate to the fund I am running for Michelle's Place through Reality Rally. I require the Reality Stars who come to raise $400 to be part of this amazing fun weekend and I always do what I ask others to do myself.

100% of the net proceeds go to our charity and the $400 from the Stars goes to pay for a mammogram for an uninsured woman. One never knows if it is YOUR dollar that saves a life. Just so you know I do not draw a salary like so many organizers might.

Kindest regards and deepest appreciation,
Gillian Larson
41893 Niblick Rd,
Temecula. Ca. 92591

Michelle's Place is a 501 C3 -tax ID #33-0951216

This is why I do what I do.
Our Charity receives 100% of the net proceeds.
Michelle's Place

Michelle's Place Breast Cancer Resource Center Founders Video

Today is the day YOU can make a difference. Your participation and contributions could be that dollar that saves a life. Wow, powerful. Reality Rally 2013!

Save the date!
April 5th-7th 2013
Thank you for your donation!
I look forward to seeing you in Temecula next April for another amazing event!
Gillian
781-962-8234

Check out the previous posts from this season and other Survivor related posts in these blog links below
Let's Get Down and Dirty!
He's Got Swag!
Bittersweet Taste After
Chaos, Idols and Desperation
Make Mine Oreos Please
Zane-y Yet Memorable, Premiere Of Survivor Philippines
Reality Rally 2013 Game On!
Charles and Holly Hoffman At Republican National Convention 2012

Let's Get Down & Dirty

2012-10-25T18:01:00.000-04:00

"I'm uhhhh..with the majority!" ---Lisa Whelchel of Tandang

It's safe to say this past episode that a few of the cast of Survivor Philippines literally did just that. Getting down and dirty in a very muddy and tough Reward Challenge that was fought hard. Gotta give it to production in coming up with a challenge that shows just how badly these people want to win the food. Because these cast equally would not budge and allow the other side to triumph. It was fought hard and tough. With the girls, Lisa and Denise being just as physical as the men. Lisa gets some serious kudos for her take downs of Denise and just willfully holding onto her. Likewise Denise, for stubbornly clinging onto the wicker ball. Penner got a bit frisky with Scoop's leg area getting "ever so close..." plus Scoop, Pete, Malcolm and Carter equally fought tough. I loved the interchange of Penner and Scoop when Penner said that it was all about endurance which was something both he and Scoop had. Then Scoop, who was sitting on top of Penner by that point said, "feels like paradise" to which Penner responded "or something like that". I had a good laugh at that one.

Looking back at the challenge, I think that it would have been a very lengthy one. As both sides when you look at the camp scenes were having food issues. With the weather being rainy a lot, it was tough to cook food. So you see the cast eating food straight out raw which is a pretty miserable thing. I think by this point, no one is gonna not fight for food that is cooked and could refresh their spirits and bodies. So this challenge would have been a knock down dead out fight. The way these folks were fighting to win, I wouldn't have been surprised if an injury or two resulted from it, which would have been risky occurring just before an immunity challenge. So what Penner and Scoop did was pretty logical at that point. The only problem in the end, is that neither side prevailed much food wise because Penner ended up not being able to catch much fish and the rice didn't seem to be enough for the bigger tribe of Tandang.

However, when you look at it strategically, if you are Tandang, the deal made Kalabaw's food situation more critical, which can weaken them. As hunger plays a crucial role in stamina and even in cognitive thinking. But, the difference with Kalabaw is that it appears like they aren't totally weakening yet. I think they grew strength from having the letters sent from home. While Tandang is ready to implode. If Tandang is to seize anything should merge happen soon, they need to resolve these inner conflicts and not allow them to build any further.

Did They Make The Right Choice?

As Frank and I were watching the show the other night Frank said after the Kalabaw loss, "you know it's gonna be Penner, right?" I looked at him and said "if it were my vote, I would target Katie". I stated my reasoning, that she was weaker and they still need strength right now and that Penner has an idol, which is a good bargaining chip at a merge. Plus Penner is a provider.

I got to thinking of the situation facing Jeff and Carter at arriving at their final decision. They could have kept Katie, as she would have been a convenient vote at merge for them and not a physical threat to beat at individual challenges. They could flush out the HII and a dangerous smart player with an HII to bargain with or use. The down side to this is that Penner can still do good at a challenge and is their main food source. By cutting him loose at this point, they run the risk of losing challenges with keeping a weaker opponent in and further deepening the already existing food situation at camp. Jeff said at Tribal his thoughts on the dilemna by saying "this game sucks". Obviously the decision did not come easy as you have to factor in now vs later.

Both are assuming merge is approaching and both are worried about what will happen if Penner uses his HII to bargain with or even uses it and one of them goes. Plus the possibility that Penner could turn on them at some point. In the end, I think they made the only move they could make at the time. Time will tell if keeping Penner ultimately will not come back to bite them. Penner has a lot of strengths and that could take him deep into the game.

I do doubt that Penner would have been totally surprised were there have been votes to cast him off. As his answers showed he knew the position he was in. In fact, when you listen to the responses at Tribal, to me it sounded as if the whole tribe was playing "chess" and made for interesting dialogue.

The only questionable factor in my opinion for them, now lies with Denise in that will she remain loyal to them post merge as she has an alliance with Malcolm? Will she bring him to their side or will she go in with whatever alliance Malcolm has made over at Tandang? I read something today in an interview where cast off Katie Hanson mentioned Denise and said "I can tell you that Denise is a very, very likeable person. No matter where she goes, or where she gets thrown, I think that she has the ability to mold people's minds that she is your friend. Even though she voted me out, I still have nothing bad to say about her, because she's a really nice lady! She's obviously flying under the radar, she's coming in as the new person on someone's tribe. So she can survive Kalabaw, why couldn't she make it all the way?" Denise has the smarts right now to do whatever direction will work out best for her and the ability to acclimate well. There is a possibility for the current alliance of 4 over at Kalabaw, Penner, Jeff, Denise and Carter now of their having access to 2 idols should Malcolm come to their side via Denise. The merge this season should be an interesting one and I am looking forward to see how it all will start playing itself out.

That pretty much sums up my thoughts for this analysis. I love my guy Scoop and am rooting him on to hang in there! Until next week, hope you all enjoyed the episode and season so far. As always, keep your torch lights lit. See ya next time!

I have several blogs that I am doing right now besides my Survivor one here and would like to invite yall to check each out and follow them as well. I am the main administrator of Coach Ben Wade's official website and have been doing a lot of work on it. There are a lot of changes to check out so please take a moment to do so. It's at Benjamin "Coach" Wade Website

I also have a Beatles Tribute Website and A New Day With Christ. I invite you all over and hope you enjoy your stay while there!

Can You Stand The Rain -- New Edition

Check out the previous posts from this season and other Survivor related posts in these blog links below
He's Got Swag!
Bittersweet Taste After
Chaos, Idols and Desperation
Make Mine Oreos Please
Zane-y Yet Memorable, Premiere Of Survivor Philippines
Reality Rally 2013 Game On!
Charles and Holly Hoffman At Republican National Convention 2012

He's Got Swag!

2012-10-19T20:32:00.000-04:00

Well it's official, Matsing Tribe has been disassembled. What was left of it anyway with the two remaining members being blended one each into the two tribes Kalabaw and Tandang. I thought it was cool how the fate was decided by unopened buffs. Pretty fair, though I still would have loved to have seen a Denise/Pete matchup of psyche strategical wits.

Malcolm's Got Swag!

Not surprised at all about the fact that Penner's group snagged up Denise before the girl's clique got her and not surprised that the various members of the Tandang tribe are impressed with Malcolm. Speaking of, he is sitting pretty right now. With the taste of back to back wins, some chocolate and may I add, things going his way for the moment, it does look like he has some "swag".

He has a hidden immunity idol plus knowledge of another one courtesy of Pete. Which is a good thing. Thing is though, I am thinking this situation with Pete may just be temporary as when someone is a direct threat, they become expendable. I would recommend Malcolm steer clear of Pete. I think that's what is happening with Michael Skupin due to his likeability and experience plus strength in challenges. That is certainly the case with RC as well. So I honestly am expecting Pete to at some point single Malcolm out also. Yes, the idol is a good bargaining chip, but if I am reading Pete right, he is going to want access to both unhindered. He is not going to turn on Abi as Abi has a penchant for ruffling feathers which is an asset for him. Malcolm, on the other hand is a charmer, likable and a triple threat. If Malcolm goes deep in. he stands a very good shot to win. So my hunch is if I were Malcolm, I'd keep the idol quiet and entertain all possible angles.

Meanwhile over on Kalabaw

Denise meanwhile, is in a similar good footing for the moment over at Kalabaw. I am not at all surprised that she was brought into the Penner fold. She's bright, hard working and a strength in a challenge. At this point. especially when you are down two, you want to keep strength. Especially on your side. We got to see more dynamics inside of camp Kalabaw. Apparently from day 1, the men vs women was quietly in place. Plus in reading an interview I have learned that Dawson did let Jeff Kent know that she knew he played pro baseball. Plus Dawson looked in Penner's bag and knew he had the idol. I did note that when Dawson started getting votes that she looked at Penner as if to say "I know you are behind this". The look she gave Jeff at the end was pretty smouldering in a sultry way. Plua at the end she did what I am sure was a first..she planted one heckuva kiss on Probst's cheek! I cannot recall any Tribal ending on this note where Jeff is concerned. But it was cool!

Game wise, it looks like camp Penner has the edge, as the girl alliance is finished with the dual exits of Dawson and Dana. At this point, things are not boding well for Katie. We'll see what the future will hold, but I don't see anyone flipping from Penner's side. However this is Survivor, and unlikely things can happen.

Dana Falls Prey To Illness

Out of 25 seasons, the one thing that I truly hate seeing is someone fall prey to illness or injury and have to leave the game. Either by choice or medical evacuation. In the case of Dana Lambert, she was a tough competitor in challenges and obviously in handling the illness she had as long as she did. She was sick the entire time out there with stomach cramps, vomiting and intense chills with fever. My heart broke for her while watching. I liked Dana and recognized that tough streak in her and felt I could relate to her. I am very sorry to see her go and hope that despite being ill, that she had a good experience.

That about does it for this week's analysis. Next week looks interesting so I can't wait to watch all the dynamics with that. This week, I used Pandora Radio to listen to as I posted my summation of thoughts and listened to George Harrison Radio. Below I would like to share one of my favorite tunes by George Harrison. Hope everyone enjoyed this past episode and hope that all your torch lights stay lit. Peace out until next time!

Check out the previous posts from this season and other Survivor related posts in these blog links below
Bittersweet Taste After
Chaos, Idols and Desperation
Make Mine Oreos Please
Zane-y Yet Memorable, Premiere Of Survivor Philippines
Reality Rally 2013 Game On!
Charles and Holly Hoffman At Republican National Convention 2012

Bittersweet Taste After

2012-10-12T16:13:00.000-04:00

Watching the after game conversations and the closure of his journey, did not at all surprise me. Russell being the passionate person that he is, is taking the exit bitter. In fact I read it in him and saw it coming. In these videos, Russell is also coming across as a bit of a poor sport which is a sad thing for me to see.

In viewing the day after closure interview, we see that Russell is putting his exit more on others than taking responsibility for his own actions. In the more recent interview on Survivor Live After Show, he equates Denise with being like a politician and calls her a "Bill Clinton". Plus with Denise being a therapist, he says that she understands ways to get into the minds of others. Which is true, as she has been taught to examine behavior patterns and how those play into decisions we make. So her understanding of human nature can only help and enhance her game from all areas. This game play on Denise's part tho, has left a very bitter aftertaste in the mouth of Russell Swan.

He states that he can understand why they chose to vote him off because of their alliance but it doesn't make logical sense. I have done some thinking on the future of Malcolm and Denise myself and will share an insight I have had below. Actually, when you think of it, it does make logical sense and I will touch on it in a bit. My grasp of Russell's statements is that Russell is placing his exit directly on Denise and is feeling some animosity towards her which is pretty clear. Not only did she out play him in a strategical way, but she did so using a psyche strategy, which can leave a person afterwards feeling like they've been "had". Which is a typical human response. We witnessed the one scene where Russell opened up to her and there were probably other moments as well. My read on the reaction is that he trusted her, only to feel betrayed afterwards. I don't think that, yet, he is seeing the complete picture. Most likely due to the depth of the bitter feelings he has over his exit.

In the end, from my perspective, based on the edit, Russell was just as much a part of the decimation of Matsing as the others. It started in the beginning and just kept spiraling. Again, my hope is that Russell finds peace one day with this. I don't dislike him at all and wish the best for him.

Below are the two videos pertaining to Russell and below it are some random thoughts for next week.

For email/Zimbio : Russell Swan The Day After

For email and Zimbio readers: Russell Swan On Survivor Live After Show with host Bill Posley (Survivor One World)

Malcolm and Denise

The decision to vote off Russell Swan was not just a decision based on the fact that Malcolm and Denise are allies. But in actuality is a strictly strategical proactive strategy. Malcolm if I recall, stated that his decision was based on what would be the best decision for his future game. Keeping Denise is.

I am going to go out on a limb and guess that next episode will see the two allies go to separate tribes. It may happen at the beginning of the challenge when the tribes meet up. Once they are on separate tribes, each will have a shot at making sub alliances. Denise would be the best candidate for that as she is not an emotional player, like Russell was. Instead she is a calm methodical player who employs a psyche approach. Denise also will not have a returning player bulls eye on her back. Plus in noting the reactions to Russell's explosion post challenge, the cast on Kalabaw and Tandang, were uncomfortable. I think this rubbed some of the cast the wrong way. Which would go before Russell into any tribe he enters and make him a large target.

The choice made on last night's episode is highly logical. Actually it's the best move the two of them could make for their own game. Upon a merge these two would not only have a solid alliance, but if they can keep it together pre/post merge without being singled out, they should be able to bring into the merge a blended alliance that can take over and make it deep into the game. I have a lot of respect for these two and am looking forward to see what happens next in their journey this season.

Evacuation?

Medical personnel are seen heading towards Kalabaw, which means one thing. That the injury sustained by Jeff Kent on the outset of the game has become a minus and he might be removed. I honestly hope not. I hate seeing evacuations plus I would love to see where the Penner/Carter/Kent alliance would go.

SHOULD he be evacuated, should it be pre challenge and my theory of Malcolm and Denise split into separate tribes happens, then I think that Jeff's exit is not going to be a tremendous blow to Penner's game. As I believe either Malcolm or Denise could decide to align with him. Penner will approach either I think because he will feel they are his best option. I think either will see the value of playing with a returnee for a long term game and we may see a slight shakeup with this alliance there. Either can bring in the one extra girl to have the advantage.

It would for me, be neat to see Denise over at Tandang as I would be interested in see how she approaches the power balance of Pete/Abi/Lisa and the mounting tensions that are happening within the tribe thanks to Pete's "Russell Hantz 101 Strategy". Plus I would love to see a match of wits between Denise and Pete. Seeing two psyche strategical games going down at once will be fun to watch! May the best player win if so! That's it for now, hope everyone enjoys the next episode.

Check out the previous posts from this season and other Survivor related posts in these blog links below
Chaos, Idols and Desperation
Make Mine Oreos Please
Zane-y Yet Memorable, Premiere Of Survivor Philippines
Reality Rally 2013 Game On!
Charles and Holly Hoffman At Republican National Convention 2012

Chaos, Idols and Desperation

2012-10-11T00:36:00.002-04:00

Hi folks! I am back again this week for another analysis. Last week, I missed the episode and didn't watch until later in the week so I decided not to do a recap. I am back this week and hope everyone enjoyed the show tonight.

I myself did enjoy it, but sadly, it was rather predictable. The wonderful thing is we're starting to see more from the "ghosts" as tonight we saw a lot more tribal dynamics. One that stood out to me was Carter. He is now aligned with Jeff and Penner. Not a bad alliance at all.

It's Showtime folks at Kalabaw

I am glad Penner's social game is being shown now and that he has made the alliance he has with Jeff and with Carter. Last week, when he approached Jeff Kent I thought to myself, smart move. The one person you want in your back pocket is the one who a: has a good social game where you can work your strategies through their ability to connect and bridge others in when needed and b: someone who has at some point in the game, worked against you. Definitely a smart move. Plus both need the other.

The one thing strategically that could work against either is IF the three girls do team up and work something. Remember, Dawson recognized Jeff Kent as a famous baseball player. Plus Penner is a three-peater with an idol. If there is even an iota of a guess that Penner has the idol and that both are allies, the girls could work to get Carter on their side to bust that up.

So, far as Kalabaw goes, if things stay the way that they are, Carter is actually a valuable swing vote. With the two guys nabbing him for an alliance, they are playing a proactive strategy. Personally, I feel they should also work out something with Dawson, who, to me seems pretty savvy. If it were me, I would at least approach her. I see Dawson as being very aware of what is happening around her. Having four gives you a majority vote and swinging one girl is crucial for them, especially if you are covering all bases.

Congratulations also go to Kalabaw on another last minute immunity win, a come from behind one at that and winning a tarp.

Things Are Heating Up At Tandang And Not Just The Steak

Turmoil reigns at Tandang tribe in the form of Abi Maria and RC. The break started last episode when Abi Maria turned on RC in a bit of a snit fit. It now looks like we have a puppeteer in the tribe, being Pete. Watching this reminds me of back in Scoop's original season of Survivor Outback and his tribe had a melt down between 2 of their own, Alicia vs Kimmy. Jeff Varner stirred the pot between the two and the next thing you know there was a spat that is still talked about. Stirring the pot is a way to keep the bulls eye on someone else and not yourself, especially if one has a feisty personality and the other is pretty smart and a viable threat.

Pete, strategical wise is pretty freaking smart. He is not showing his hand too directly, but is carefully setting traps for people to fall into, with little to no suspicion. I think Lisa is catching on quick to what's happening and is playing her bets alongside Pete.

Not much is seen of Scoop this week except for his cooking with Abi. Please correct me if I am wrong, but the vibe to me, seemed tense towards Scoop. It could just be the mounting tensions at camp, but I sensed some small undercurrents in that scene. I am hoping that Scoop is able to dodge it. My hope is that Lisa will be a bridge for him now that she is working with Pete. Remember, Scoop did approach her earlier and state that he wanted to work with her. My fingers are crossed as I do love Scoop and want to see him go deep.

Congrats are in order for Tandang on winning immunity again and the reward of a steak meal with spices.

We are down to two at Matsing

Eleven days in, the Matsing Tribe have dwindled down to two..

Last week saw the tribe struggling during the immunity challenge. The tensions at Tribal showed the desperation that has become pretty crucial there. As much as I dearly love Russell Swan, he has been kind to me in the past and I love the guy. But based on the edit and looking at it from an analytical view, Russell's drive for success became, in my opinion, a personal kryptonite which affected him and affected morale.

What I saw was sheer exasperation and desperation. After each challenge he would explode vocally and after so much of that, it sffects morale. Plus the tribe continued to have individual agendas. This tribe is reminding me so much of Ulong from Palau in that nothing is working for them. They have spirit and good people but in reality once you lose morale and start a losing streak it's pretty hard to come out of it. The competitive streak in Russell reminded me so much of the fire in Stephenie LaGrossa from that season. Both do not take losing well and both players played with their heart.

The problems that led to this implosion in Matsing started early on. Russell showed a passive-aggressive side in not wanting leadership but not being able to control the ability to not want to lead. Which caused an early wedge in the Matsing tribe. Then, he could not contain himself emotionally post challenges after each loss. Those explosions coming on top of a loss which already has a tribe feeling deflated, just deepened the low morale. Add this to a divided tribe with individual agendas, dealing with stressful weather conditions, fatigue, hunger and you have gaps that are pretty hard to bridge.

I saw moments when Russell did his best to try to build morale but in the end it was too little too late. Desperation had long set in. In the end it has now come down to two players left. The allies Denise and Malcolm. I have my fingers crossed for them as I have liked both since the initial first episode. It's now gonna come down to character and will power on both their parts. Both are smart and both have drive so I am pulling for them.

I enjoyed watching the conversation that Denise had with Russell tonight during the episode. This delved deep into explaining Russell and his actions. For one, I do respect Russell Swan but do wish he had been able to keep the emotions more in check and am genuinely sad to see his exit tonight. Russell is a great guy and I hope that he is able to take something positive from his second experience.

If you didn't catch Nina Acosta from last season on the Friends Of Ricki Lake Show today, it was pretty cool. Nina is awesome and was featured on a segment on women who are doing amazing things in fields largely dominated by men. Nina was a former LAPD cop who sued successfully for gender discrimination. Her lawsuit eventually opened doors for women to be considered for positions in the SWAT team there. I respect the fact that she took a stand and applaud her. I consider her a friend and enjoyed seeing her segment today!

Well we have reached another wrap up of this week's episode of Survivor Philippines. Hope everyone enjoyed the episode. Please share your thoughts below. Until next time, keep the torch light lit and enjoy!

Check out the previous posts from this season and other Survivor related posts in these blog links below
Make Mine Oreos Please
Zane-y Yet Memorable, Premiere Of Survivor Philippines
Reality Rally 2013 Game On!
Charles and Holly Hoffman At Republican National Convention 2012

Make Mine Oreos Please!

2012-09-29T16:07:00.004-04:00

Episode 2 is in the bag and again we see another Matsing loss and yet, another trek to Tribal for them. However, this Tribal had a funny moment when Angie was asked about what was needed to make tribal life better and she responded "cookies!". Though her response was a little unorthodox, I will have to agree lol. Trust me, chocolate is great at fixing anyone's blues. Make mine a package of Oreos, please!

This episode we saw pure human drama. Russell is again beside himself with aggravation after, yet, another loss. Malcolm and Angie are becoming "cuddle buddies" to the consternation of Roxy, who feels very threatened by this pairing up. Penner finds an idol, his first immunity in 3 seasons on the show and we see a member of Tandang, Lisa Whelchel, break for a moment under the stress of feeling like an outsider.

It's still early in the season and we have yet to really see some of the other cast members, who are more or less ghosts. We have yet to see Carter Williams say one word. Pre-season I liked the cancer survivor, Artis, and so far we may have seen him maybe for 5 minutes. This past episode, I got a bit of a clue at least about him, that he is part of the larger alliance. Most likely as a sub-alliance with someone. Possibly Michael.

We are pretty much seeing the same folks each episode. So either these people are who we will see throughout the season and editing is helping us get to know them, to either love or despise them. Or these "invisibles" are just not "good TV". Either way, if such is the case, I am not seeing doom quite yet for Lisa Whelchel, she may just be in for the long haul.

She has been focused on so far in confessionals, in brief scenes. This past episode, she broke down under duress. True, part of the reason we might be seeing what we are seeing of her is because she has the "celebrity" tag. As does yet another cast member, Jeff Kent, whom we are also seeing a bit of. But Lisa, (Survivor) character wise, has a sympathetic and likable edit to her. I am not sure fully yet on Jeff, whether I will like him or not, game wise. But Lisa, I do like her. I feel I can relate to her and am hoping that the edit we are seeing is an indicator that we are watching a journey that starts off shaky, but comes full circle, strong, deep in the game.

Breaking Under The Stress

As I stated above, this past episode, we see former "Facts Of Life" star, Lisa Whelchel, break for a moment under duress. Lisa stated in a confessional that she is actually shy and that it's tough for her to do social type things. She is definitely questioning whether or not she has it in her to do this. I have always got the impression that Lisa is a survivor. In fact I have stated this previously twice. Personally I am glad she's having the stressed out moment now rather than deep in. She has a shot to get something going. The thing is Lisa needs to dig in deep and tell herself she can do it. Lisa, if you can survive being a child star and all that goes with it and all the bumps you have had along the way, trust me, you can do it girl! I think honestly, the edit is setting it up for us to see a "comeback". She will need to put aside the initial first impressions she gave everyone. But I think she can and I have my fingers crossed for her.

Penner Finds An Idol

After an exhaustive amount of searching on the part of Jonathan Penner, he has finally after 3 seasons, gotten his hands on an immunity idol. The powers that be are really taking the fun out of searching for the idol. They are practically putting it right into the hands of people. In Jonathan's case, it's needed. I honestly feel the reason he was looking so feverishly is because he realized how the tribe wants him out at the first available moment they can cut him. Jeff Kent has stated it, as has others on the tribe. Edit wise, we don't see Jonathan doing too much socially. I also don't think the others on the tribe are clueless. This idol can either be a tool to curry favor now for Jonathan and buy him some time or it could be put to use to save him. Hopefully. Jonathan will use this as a strategical tool. Maybe now that he is in possession of it, we can start to see him put something together that will work out for him.

Bonus Video: 'Survivor' Did Russell Hantz take Jonathan Penner's Villain spot?

The Continuing Spiral of Matsing

Over at Matsing, we are seeing a tribe that is split down the middle. On one side we have, Malcolm, Denise and Angie. Then on the opposite spectrum we see returning player Russell Swan with Roxy. I don't see much of a unified tribe existing at Matsing, but instead, I see a tribe with differing agendas. The image below taken during a scene at camp, clearly shows this division.

Basic Survivor 101 tells us that you can always tell who is in an alliance with whom, by noting who sits next to whom, who someone is chilling the most with and yes, even the sleeping arrangements.

Which brings us to the subject of Roxy. Roxy had noticed the growing bonding between Malcolm and Angie. Both are attractive and to be honest, it's not that big of a stretch to infer a possible attraction budding. In Malcolm's case though, you have a smart player who I seriously doubt will allow himself to be "blinded by the headlights". Roxy made perfect sense, but in her case, she fell prey to the tribal social structuring.

Social wise, what I saw was that Roxy annoyed members of the larger alliance. Denise, who is a very strategical based player, was annoyed by seeing Roxy's prayer and gut wise felt she could not trust Roxy ultimately. Roxy in targeting Angie, could just as soon, target her main ally Malcolm or even herself. Which made Roxy ultimately a threat.

Roxy, in trying to break up a potential power pair that she saw in Angie/Malcolm, made a strategical decision to approach Denise and Russell, but what she could not factor into the equation is that Denise is possibly thinking steps ahead. In doing so, she has to protect her ally Malcolm and ultimately, herself. Which then makes Roxy expendable.

Roxy provided a reason for the larger alliance to vote her off in that she told Russell during the challenge that she could not run the extra run because she hadn't drank much water that day. I noted that, to me, she showed more strength during her run than Angie did on her two. Had she have done the extra run, they well could have pulled an immunity off. To me, that is working against your tribe and not with them.

Plus earlier we see Roxy openly complaining about the weather conditions which got on some nerves. When you add these minor annoyances, plus the challenge, tagging this onto the viable threat Roxy could become, we can see why Roxy's plan was not successful. It all in the end came down to social politics. Which is a large part of what Survivor itself is based on.

Matsing is a tribe that is showing itself to be fracturing under the weight of these social divisions and agendas. For Matsing to be able to survive intact, they will need to get on the same page. At the moment, it doesn't look too good for Russell Swan, as he is on the outside of a larger alliance. Russell is fighting hard though and is trying to rally his tribe. But, the key player in all of this is Denise, who I see as someone who is mapping things step by step. If Russell can work something with Denise and Malcolm, which would be a good strategical ploy for both with his being a returning player, he has a shot. If not, then Russell could well be the next to go.

Hope everyone enjoyed this past episode. Please leave your thoughts below on what you are thinking of this season so far. Have a wonderful week and keep the torch light lit!

The Oreo Song by Weird Al click here

Reality Rally 2013 GAME ON!!!

2012-09-22T14:41:00.000-04:00

Below is a wonderful charity I. 100 per cent support and am helping spread the word about. I have known Gillian for several years and have seen the remarkable things that her fundraiser has done, has become! Also, the wonderful work of the charity Michelle's Place. To learn more about Gillian and her dream and more about Reality Rally, please check out this interview I did with Gillian not long ago here. Please check out the information below. If you are interested definitely contact Gillian at her email below. It's amazing!!

Below is a photo of Gillian and I with friends. Taken in 2011 at a charity event in Florida.

From the wonderful Gillian Larson comes this update on the new better than ever event Reality Rally!

Reality Rally Amazing Race Game!!

Reality Rally wants YOU!

Saturday April 6th 11am-4pm

Play a game with 3 fun friends and one Reality TV Star through 12 Challenge Checkpoint Stations all over Old Town Temecula.

Must be 16 or older.

$70 a person until January 1st

$90 a person January 1st to March 25th deadline.

Ticket includes the 4 hr fun game, a ticket to the Red Carpet Celebration Saturday evening 6pm-10pm Venue TBA, a tee shirt (but you can wear your team designed shirt.) plenty of water and a whole lot of fun !!!

Each Team member must sign up individually but add Team Name

Buy your ticket with your team name.

3 public if you want a Reality Star as your 4th
OR 4 public and no Reality Star
OR Buy a single ticket and we will put you with 2 other singles and a Reality Star

New for 2013:

Corporate Challenge!

Do you think your company, school, hospital, service organization is the best around??

Sign up a Corporate Team of 3 or 4 as above. Wear your company gear, get company promotion on our website, send us your Company URL and the world can watch your company website and YOU take the Corporate Cup.

Reality Rally Top 3 tier sponsors..... get a team for your sponsorship so see if that is YOU.....or You want to be one!!!

Sponsorship inquiries

You can beat all the teams AND you can beat all the Corporate Teams to be The Reality Rally Corporate Winner!!

If you have any questions email Gillian

We really appreciate your participation; Michelle's Place really appreciates your contribution

There will be no refunds but may substitute a participant. Consider your registration a contribution to Michelle's Place.

YOU do not want to miss April 5-7th 2013.

Game day Saturday April 6th.

Sign up today

Sign up your team

How do you get a your choice of Reality Star on your team or win the fundraising challenge??

A fundraising page for Michelle's Place will be opened for your team and posted on our website and sent to you.

Fundraise at least $1000 and you choose your Star from our list.

Receive a "Team Reward" for raising over $1500

Skip a Challenge!!!

Raise over $6000.00 get a " Perfect 10" and skip a challenge of your choice giving you a Huuuuge advantage

Must be raised by April 1st

Beat all the other teams in the game and also in fundraising and Michelle's Place Clients come out the winners.

Our Charity receives 100% of the net proceeds.

Michelle's Place Breast Cancer Resource Center Founders Video

Today is the day YOU can make a difference. Your participation and contributions could be that dollar that saves a life. Wow, powerful.

Watch this to see what "Fun" you will have while Michelle's Place gets the "Funds" more on our home page.

Reality Rally 2012 Highlight Reel 1

Reality Rally 2013
Save the date

Visit our website
Our charity we support

Thank you and I look forward to seeing you in Temecula next April for another amazing event.

Gillian
781-962-8234

Previous Post:
Zane-y, Yet Memorable Character!

Zane-y Yet Memorable The Premiere Of Survivor Philippines

2012-09-21T01:01:00.000-04:00

Last night saw the premiere of a new season of Survivor with a 90 minute episode. We were treated to the return of 3 former players who were medivacced during their respective seasons. Automatically, the question is, how will these returning players fare this season amidst the fresh new players. Will star factor come into play, or will their star be a liability?

My personal brief assessment of each of the returnees is that of the 3, I am definitely impressed with returning player Michael Skupin. Michael, not only has the "star factor" in his favor, but he has a very keen sense of the ins and outs of the game. He made an astute decision in waiting to see how the game is laying itself out. Either way, from the looks of his reception,

I don't see him as having too much trouble early. He already is part of an alliance with Abi, RC and Pete. The main thing I am concerned for though is that during the episode, he kept getting minor injury after minor injury. Fingers crossed he stays injury free.

I am happy to see the return of Penner as I liked him also in his previous seasons. I do have some concerns though for him based on what I saw in this past episode. I didn't see him do much interaction with his tribe, instead it was pretty obvious that he was looking for an HII. Which can only serve to alienate him from his tribe. In my opinion, with the returnee status being an already uphill battle to climb, the better option would be to try and forge some bonds and keep the clue search on the dl. Penner is a charasmatic. smart and funny guy, so it is my hope he is able to get everything in gear and the early decisions he is making will not cost him his 3rd shot.

It was also awesome to again see Russ Swan back again, another charming, charasmatic guy returning for his second season. However, he cameeversoclose to blowing his second shot. Namely, he started taking the leadership thing to the hilt after initially stating his desire not to be a leader. That right there would make anyone leery, let alone the way he barked orders during the pre-challenge huddle. Plus Zane saw Russ placing the clue back in his pants, which could have spelled doom as well. Things in the end worked out for Russ and what ended up saving Russ is that Zane way over-played his hand and made people leery. Plus I think Russ's enthusiasm helped him as well. I like Russ a lot and hope he has learned from this close call.

Lisa Whelchel, former "Facts Of Life" star is also one of the star factors on this season, and so far it appears it's just Scoop who recognizes her. I have to agree with Scoop that it may not hurt her shot to just go ahead and state who she is. The feel I am getting in just what little I have seen of her on, is that she is giving out a "vibe" that she is hiding something which will make her tribemates leery of her. From what little that was shown of her, she doesn't appear to be bonding with anyone and instead appears to be on the periphery. Next week we see in the teaser that she breaks down. Honestly, that doesn't bode altogether badly for her, as we have seen previous breaks from Holly Hoffman and Dawn Meehan. Both were able to come back from their tougher moments on the show and Lisa reminds me of both ladies. I have always felt Lisa has a resiliency so I am rooting her on and hope she is able to rebound and kick her game into earnest.

Of the newbies that are on this season, a few are early favorites. Strategical wise, I am liking Malcolm and Denise. Malcolm impressed me right off the bat as he seems charming, smart and astute. I have a good vibe on him and think he has a great shot as he seems a triple threat with strategical, social and physical. I also like Denise as she appears to be a cool and collected player. The way she is able to assess people and her answers at Tribal show she can be a contender. I am glad they paired up as I think, together, they can only bolster what strengths they bring to the game this season.

I also like Dana. Maybe it's the Southern drawl or her uniqueness but there's something that stands out to me as I watch her. I like her and hope she does well.

Zane-y but Memorable Player

Right off the bat, Zane definitely stood out and will probably go down as one of the most memorable players to go in a first episode. Zane was undeniably fun to watch and would have made for a chuckle or two had he not have over played his hand. When Zane started going to each and every player making alliances, I sat there and said "big mistake bro". The island is very small and people talk. Then when he "tossed himself under the bus" in this very elaborate scheme to blindside Russ, to me it was obvious that he was way over tipping his hand. I liked him and feel that he will be remembered alongside the likes of Chicken, Wanda and others who were ousted first but just have that fun and endearing streak in them. Who knows, we may not have seen the last of Zane.

So what are your thoughts peeps? Who stood out to you this past episode? What are your thoughts on each returning player?

Charles & Holly Hoffman at The Republican National Convention!

2012-08-30T17:03:00.002-04:00

My friends Charles (Majority Whip Leader South Dakota House of Representatives, Republican) and his awesome wife, Survivor's own, Holly Hoffman (Survivor season 21) recently had the unique chance to attend the Republican National Convention that was held here in my area of the woods, Tampa Florida! It was definitely an exciting and amazing honor for both of the Hoffmans, who got to not only see how well we handle a hurricane scare in Isaac, but feel the hospitality of our area to the delegates/alternates involved with the RNC! As well as take part in this time honored tradition of the electoral process in our country!

Charles as Majority Whip Leader was a delegate while Holly served as an alternate. During the RNC, both got to meet some pretty heavy duty politicians and celebrities. Plus both were spotted on the television several times.

I saw Holly myself on Day 1 and twice on Day 2 which was very exciting!! I saw both her and Charlie together twice on television. Below are some photos of Charlie & Holly taken during the RNC. It's motto being "We Built It!" Photos courtesy of Holly Hoffman's Twitter (follow her by clicking on link!)

Kudos to Charlie and Holly for this honor!

Holly in the skybox with RNC co-chairwoman Sharon Day!

Charles Hoffman shaking hands on the floor of the RNC first day!

Holly on the first day with Lucas Lentsch, Director of Agricultural Development, State of South Dakota.

Charles with Lucas, South Dakota rocking the RNC!

Holly meets Entertainment Tonight's Mary Hart!

Breakfast Event With Ann Romney, wife of Presidential candidate, Mitt Romney!

I Support For 2012!

Learning "The Facts Of Life" While Getting A Second Shot

2012-08-22T18:31:00.002-04:00

The cast list has been announced for the upcoming season which starts soon. The Emmy Award-winning series. Survivor, will return for it's 25th season with a special 90-minute episode, Wednesday, Sept. 19 (8:00-9:30 PM EST) on CBS. On this list is a former child star of the 70s in Lisa Whelchel, who played "Blair" the snobby little rich girl on the television series "Facts Of Life".

But Lisa Whelchel is not the only star factor on this coming season of Survivor. Also slated is a former MLB MVP from the San Francisco Giants, Jeff Kent and today it was announced officially, what many of us had guessed months back, that the alumni returning will be Michael Skupin (season 2), Russell Swann (season 19) and Jonathon Penner (seasons 13/16).

Of the star factors, I don't underestimate any of them at all, especially Whelchel, as she has shown to me before a bit of tenacity in her personality. Personally, I am excited to see Michael Skupin is getting one more shot. I met Skup a few years back at a reality event (see slides below blog) and you couldn't meet a nicer guy anywhere! Swann is also a sweetheart and Penner definitely is fun to watch as well!

I am looking forward to seeing the rest of the new cast this season. From the CBS teaser video they look like a fun bunch.

So circle your calendars again for the 90 minute premiere on Wednesday, Sept. 19 (8/7c) on CBS, the start of Season 25, Survivor Philippines!

Jeff Kent former MLB MVP!

Semi Finalist In A Poetry Contest!

2012-07-16T21:36:00.000-04:00

This afternoon I received notification via "snail mail" that I am a semi-finalist in a poetry contest sponsored by World Poetry Movement!

My poem "Ode To The Dragon Slayer" (inspired by a friend Coach Benjamin Wade of Survivor - CBS television show seasons 18,20 and 23) was selected by their committee as a semi-finalist in running to win a pretty large cash prize should it win. Plus they sent me a release form to sign as they also want to publish it. They stated I have a "unique talent" and that the poem is a "great poem"!

I am very stunned and amazed that out of thousands of entries that my entry was considered. I have never been published by anyone other than myself so this is a first! To view and if you would please "like" this entry (pretty please) the link is http://poets.com/brenda-porter/ode-to-the-dragon-slayer please let me know what you think!

Season 25 Survivor Philippines Airs September 19th!

2012-07-13T19:31:00.001-04:00

Survivor: Philippines, Season 25 date has finally been announced! The premiere date is set for Wednesday, September 19th at 8:00 pm EST, the premiere episode will be a special 90 minute episode!

This will be the US/CBS version of the show's first venture into the Philippines. However, there is a Philippine version of the show that began in 2008. For this season, the US version will have three returning players, joining an entirely new cast. The three returning players are all medical evacuees - having left the game via evacuation.

Here are the players that have been sent home for a medical reason over the past 24 previous seasons according to E! Online:

Michael Skupin - the first person ever to be evacuated from the game was Michael Skupin of Survivor Outback season 2. This occurred during the sixth episode and was very frightening to watch. While stoking the fire, Scoop breathed in smoke and momentarily fainted, falling into the fire and suffering severe burns to his hands. After being cared for by medical personnel, a helicopter was brought in and he was evacuated. Thankfully no serious damages were done and he had a miraculous healing of those burns.

Bruce Kanegai of S12 Survivor Exile Island Panama was the second evacuation in the history of the show. Bruce also became the first contestant to be medivacced and return to become a member of the jury. Bruce had had severe constipation for quite a few days and during one night was in so much pain that he sought medical attention. At first it was thought it was appendicitis but it turned out to be a bowel obstruction. Bruce was given medical attention and then returned to be a member of the jury.

Gary Stritesky - Gary was on the Fiji Season (Season 14) "Papa Smurf" was evacuated on Day 10 due to an allergic reaction to all the bug bites he had received while on location. It had initially been thought he had cracked a rib during a previous challenge also.

Jonathan Penner - He is from Survivor Cook Islands and Survivor Micronesia (Fans vs Favorites-S16) seasons and he was injured in the game. Jonathan had injured his knee by scraping it during the 3rd immunity challenge. Then later on he fell on it further aggravating the injury.

James Clement - He was also on S16- Survivor Micronesia (original season S15- Survivor China and has also been on S20 Survivor Heroes vs Villains) and had an injury occur. James had cut his finger and was medically evacuated so his wound could be properly cleaned.

Joe Dowdle - Joe was on the Tocantins season (S18) and had an injury in the game, an infection that started due to a scrape on his knee that ended up going through his leg. The injury required surgery and he healed rather quickly after the surgery

Mike Borassi - Was on S19 Survivor Samoa. Mike had initially been slated to appear on the season prior to Samoa, Survivor Tocantins, but had been cut prior to the start of filming due to his health. Prior to going out to do Samoa, Borassi had worked with doctors to get his health up to where he could participate. Being a long-time fan of the show he truly wanted to make it work. Sadly his blood pressure plummeted after a challenge and it was too risky a move to keep him in the game for fear that he may have a heart attack.

Russell Swan - He also was on S19 Survivor Samoa. Russell Swann, was leader of the Galu Tribe. Russell had been working himself very hard since the beginning of filming in camp and had in short run himself down. Probst called the evacuation "the scariest moment he had while filming the entire 19 seasons". It was to say the least.

Watching Russell collapse during the challenge and then seeing him unconscious and his eyes roll back into his head did not look good and was very scary. He blacked out several times and was very incoherent.

Kourtney Moon - was evacuated during the first episode of Survivor One World (S24) due to a broken wrist she sustained while falling on it during the first challenge.

Colton Cumbie - He was on this past season of the show (S24)"Survivor: One World." Originally thought to have appendicitis and turned out to just be a bacterial infection.

So mark your calendars and the date September 19th for this unique and fun season!!

Jeff Probst's New Show To Debut September 10th!

2012-07-10T16:37:00.002-04:00

CBS Survivor executive producer and host Jeff Probst's new show will debut on September 10th and will air in 80% of the U.S. including 24 of the 25 top TV markets. It will be a talk show and the official statement says that it will offer "provocative conversation. Compelling real-life drama. Unexpected adventures. Celebrity revelations. Audience participation. And the opportunity to say YES to life!"

The new talk show will air prior to the beginning of the 25th season of the show which made Probst a household name, Survivor which means Jeff Probst will have two shows available to the public this coming fall. I respect and admire Jeff and look forward to seeing his new show this fall. For Survivor fans it will be interesting to see what Jeff has in store with this show. If perhaps he can bring in elements from his many experiences and years as host of Survivor.

Jeff has signed on to do two more seasons of Survivor so we can expect to see him hosting through Season 26. Let's hope he will sign on for many many more seasons of the show and that in the years to come we can expect to see much more of him doing what he does best.

As an award winning host of TV's top reality show Survivor! Be sure to check his official website Jeff Probst for more details on this new show and please keep an eye on his Tout profile as well!

The Jeff Probst Show

Thought fans would like to see this also Mark Burnett speaks of casting Jeff as host for the show. Enjoy!

Mark Burnett talks of casting Jeff Probst to be host of Survivor!

Guesting tonight!

2012-06-11T16:32:00.002-04:00

I am honored to announce that I have been asked to be a guest on a wonderful show on the Inspiration 4 Life Network called It's Time For Some R & R. I will appear on this show tonight at around 8 PM EST. This show is based out of San Antonio and spotlights the every day hero and people who have in the past or currently inspire others.

My wonderful friend Rita Verreos is a host alongside the equally wonderful Rita Hernandez! I am genuinely honored to be their guest and hope that you all will take a moment to listen to this show each Monday night and check out my appearance tonight...see ya there!

Who will return?

2012-05-23T18:43:00.003-04:00

Survivor Philippines twist next season is based on something many of us said we would like to see as a twist if it were ever put together and that is the return of medical evacuees and allowing them to complete their game. In the history of the show there have been 10 medical evacs. Below are the 10 and I will give an opinion on who I think stands a shot at returning. We will start from the first evacuee and finish with the most recent.

The first person ever to be evacuated from the game was fan favorite Michael Skupin of Survivor Outback season 2. This occurred during the sixth episode and was very frightening to watch for me. While stoking the fire, Scoop breathed in smoke and momentarily fainted, falling into the fire and suffering severe burns to his hands. After being cared for by medical personnel, a helicopter was brought in and he was evacuated. Thankfully no serious damages were done and he had a miraculous healing of those burns.

Mike Skupin falls into the fire

I genuinely believe he is there. Mike was such a popular contestant at the time of his evacuation with his cast and during the airing he also was so well loved by the public. I think CBS is aware of the popularity and ratings that bringing back "Scoop" would bring. Plus Skup was away from social sites for the appropriate amount of time it would take to film the show. I would love to see him back and place him as one of my picks of returnees. He showed leadership qualities during his season so I can see him as a leader of a tribe in the coming season.

Bruce Kanegei of Survivor Exile Island Panama was the second evacuation in the history of the show. Bruce also became the first contestant to be medivacced and return to become a member of the jury. Bruce had had severe constipation for quite a few days and during one night was in so much pain that he sought medical attention. At first it was thought it was appendicitis but it turned out to be a bowel obstruction. Bruce was given medical attention and then returned to be a member of the jury.

Bruce Kanegei Medically Evacuated

I recall watching this with tears streaming down my face. It was so gut wrenching to watch. I was relieved to see him return for the jury and to know he was okay and it was nothing serious. I hope Bruce is one, it would be amazing to see him finish what he started and be given a shot this time. I don't think he is there but you never know.

Tribute To Bruce

Gary Stritesky "Papa Smurf" of Survivor Fiji was evacuated on Day 10 due to an allergic reaction to all the bug bites he had received while on location. It had initially been thought he had cracked a rib during a previous challenge also.

Papa Smurf is a lovely man who has competed in multiple inline skate marathons. He also enjoys biking, canoeing and coaching. He spent many years coaching his children's soccer, baseball, basketball and football teams also. I would love to see his return but I am not fully sure he is on the list. I found him enjoyable to watch.

There were two evacuations during Survivor Micronesia Fans vs Favorites. One being James Clement. James had cut his finger and was medically evacuated so his wound could be properly cleaned. James has competed in another season since Micronesia so I doubt that he will be on the list of returnees this time.

Interview with James and Alexis

Jonathan Penner was also a medical evacuee during the same season as James, Survivor Micronesia. Jonathan had injured his knee by scraping it during the 3rd immunity challenge. Then later on he fell on it further aggravating the injury. I can see Penner as a returnee given a shot again and would love to see him be given another shot. He was fun to watch on both seasons and I can see him as a leader of a tribe as well.

Jonathan Penner Forced To Leave The Game

Joe Dowdle of Survivor Tocantins was medically evacuated due to an infection that started due to a scrape on his knee that ended up going through his leg. The injury required surgery and he healed rather quickly after the surgery. I don't think Joe is a returnee but it would be awesome to see him play again one day and be able to play out his game. He was pretty strong during his season and I enjoyed watching him on the show.

You Ask They Tell - Joe Dowdle

Mike Borassi was one of 2 medical evacuations during Survivor Samoa's season. Mike had initially been slated to appear on the season prior to Samoa, Survivor Tocantins, but had been cut prior to the start of filming due to his health. Prior to going out to do Samoa, Borassi had worked with doctors to get his health up to where he could participate. Being a long-time fan of the show he truly wanted to make it work. Sadly his blood pressure plummeted after a challenge and it was too risky a move to keep him in the game for fear that he may have a heart attack. Which is why I don't see him returning either. With past serious health issues I don't see producers as taking that big a risk.

Mike Borassi speaks!

The second evacuation during the Samoa season and yet another gut wrenching one to view was that of Russell Swann, leader of the Galu Tribe. Russell had been working himself very hard since the beginning of filming in camp and had in short run himself down. Probst called the evacuation "the scariest moment he had while filming the entire 19 seasons". It was to say the least.

Watching Russell collapse during the challenge and then seeing him unconscious and his eyes roll back into his head did not look good and was very scary. He blacked out several times and was very incoherent. Seeing his tears as he was carted off broke my heart as a viewer. In all honesty I believe he is one of them.

His story at the end of how badly he wanted to be on would rate high with us viewers.

His story as a leader on Galu would fit for a tribe leader on this season. He was fun to watch, likable and relatable. I think he is there.

Russell Swann Evacuation

Kourtney Moon was evacuated during the first episode of Survivor One World due to a broken wrist she sustained while falling on it during the first challenge. Kourtney was never given a shot to play as she was out so quick however she tweeted during the season while the cast was filming and I don't see her as being one of the returnees. Kourtney had been my initial hope for going further in due to her being an under-dog and I felt I could relate to her. She has a lot of spunk and I like her a helluva lot but I don't see her as a tribal leader.

Kourtney Moon

Colton Cumbie was the final to date medical evacuee suffering an appendicitis attack during filming on location. It is a popular rumor that he is back and some buzz says that he is. Myself, I noticed some tweets during the time of filming and for that reason I doubt he is there. Colton was highly controversial and many hated or loved to hate Colton during this past season. His highly inflammatory statements were tasteless and actually uncalled for.

All in all as a villain he made "good tv" meaning he made you talk and people talked a lot and still are. Would the producers chance having him return with his character being so highly controversial? That we will have to wait and see. My belief is though he makes TV people buzz about, I seriously cannot see him as a leader that would last very long in the game. His strategies ended up costing his tribe in the long run and his apologies on the finale seemed more surface and not as genuine as Alicia's was. Just my take on Colton. He does make a great villain to watch though.

One Man Down Colton Evacuation

My picks for returnees are Skupin, Penner and Swann. Looking forward to watching the upcoming season and who does return and see how things will play out for them with a total new cast. Let's hope for the best for them!

Survivor Philippines Preview

NEW MUSIC! Alicia Rosa MP3 Download!

2012-05-19T05:42:00.001-04:00

Alicia Rosa has a brand new mp3 song "FREE" written prior to the finale that is available for download on Amazon.com a sample is available. Go to:
AMAZON.com and download your copy today!

ALICIA ROSA: FREE!

Now available on itunes to download go here: Alicia Rosa "FREE" on itunes

It's All About Girl Power!

2012-05-16T12:25:00.000-04:00

Yes I am a bit late in posting this. But I gotta tell you all, that I am OVERJOYED to see a Kim win! How awesome to see someone who played the game and played the best game overall get the win!!! I was a bit worried prior to the finale that as per some recent seasons, that Kim would fall victim to the dreaded "bitter jury". Thankfully that was not the case and my girl emerged the victor at the end!

So how did Kim do it?

Kim made sure everyone felt like they were a part of her game. She developed relationships with each player, making each feel important. She basically did a nuclear style alliance where she was centered in the middle between her group of players and held power and the swing, decisive vote at all points in the game.

Which may not be flashy and to some, boring, but it's effective and it got her there. Looking back, I will note that Kim had everyone's trust and balanced the "need to know" strategical situations so well that no one appeared to question her. No one seemed to want to change it up either to further themselves.

That's the scary part of a game where you become the pivotal vote each time. Especially during moments of paranoia, to keep both groups balanced and each player from switching things around. To keep trust so solid.

Hats off to Kim for a fantastic social game in that area and for her 5 immunity wins! The wins place her up there with players like Jenna Morasca. Not bad for a rookie season!

This season of Survivor One World is now in the books. It will go down in Survivor lore as being the first season where you have an all girl Final 5! The closest to this was during Survivor Micronesia where 4 of the Final 5 were women: Parvati Shallow, Amanda Kimmel, Cirie Fields and Natalie Bolton, with the fifth being Erik Reichenbach. So how did it work this season and not then?

It comes down to Kim's building such a solid trust base with the girls early on. Her alliance with Chelsea and Sabrina started day one. She also built another alliance with Alicia Rosa which also consisted of Christina Cha and Greg "Tarzan" Smith. With her main alliance of Chelsea and Sabrina starting so early it became the core alliance for Kim throughout the game. If Kim or any of the 3 would have delineated for one iota off the strategical map there, it would have spelled disaster, as each person was a component to their success.

The addition of Tarzan to their ranks via Alicia was what was needed to gain momentum over old Manono (the male tribe). Once momentum was gained it was all by the numbers from that point.

Alicia, for all the controversy that surrounded her, played a solid game herself playing a similar game to Kim's. Alicia also had a core alliance of 2 and built social rapport within Manono Tribe (having been a "misfit" herself) So had she have made the Finals, I believe she would have garnered votes. The only factor that would have separated her & Kim would have been Kim's immunity wins which garnered Kim respect among the men. So I would like to give mad props also to Alicia. In the end her respect for Kim's game made her Kim's benefactor within the jury as she openly campaigned for a Kim win.

Their success also comes down to each move that was made throughout. With each move the girls made solid footings throughout the game. From within Salani and even Manono. In fact, the Manono guys helped in the cause by voting strength early as well as making the decision to go to Tribal even though they held immunity. In doing so, these early decisions weakened their cause and also strengthened the girl's side, further sealing the girl's eventual success.

So congrats are in order to the Final 3 of Kim, Sabrina and Chelsea and to a wonderful season!

One of my favorite highlights from the finale:

Kat's beautiful emotional speech to the jury

To Kat I want to say how moving and AMAZING your speech was. I cried. How often do people take this game to heart and allow bitterness to prevail. You have such a phenomenal heart and soul. I know you will only become more powerful as your life progresses. I wouldn't be shocked to see Kat as very successful in her life!

Please take a moment to LIKE my friend Rob Beasley's all purpose Survivor Page on Facebook. Rob does an amazing job with it. I put it up there next to Survivor's main page on CBS even. A MUST JOIN!

Survivor Seasons:

Promote Your Page Too

Now to next season: from all I have heard it will be 3 medivacs who will lead teams of new players. There are 10 who can possibly return. I am excited to see what the new season holds and to again capture it weekly.

My picks as possible returnees are:

Mike Skupin Survivor Outback

Jonathan Penner (evacuated during Survivor Micronesia)

Russell Swann (evacuated during Survivor Samoa)

Congrats to Kim Spradlin for her win and also for receiving the Sprint Fan Favorite Vote for $100,000!!!

See ya next season!

"Blindsides are always fun!"

2012-05-03T19:10:00.005-04:00

Well not so much last night I don't think as the person saying it ended up being blindsided just moments later.

Is Kim starting to maybe slip up a tiny bit as Kat would have been a good finalist with her. On the edits we see and even hear Kat herself note that she did not want to be perceived as a follower. Which means that Kat was aware that she could be perceived that way. The edit made it appear that way. Tarzan in a rare strategical moment stated it would be a mistake as Kat is a follower. Plus during the Family Visit Kim mentioned to her sister that her Final 3 pairing was with Kat and Alicia. (note that Chelsea was not even mentioned which shows what I stated in an earlier blog that Kim will pick off perceived jury threats i.e. social and physical)

So her choice Of Kat I would like to explore and will later on a bit. But first to Kim's game and to Sabrina.

My analysis of Kim's game to date is that she has a gift of doing spin control and also letting people feel they are in charge. Case in point Alicia who at the beginning of the episode stated that she was the most powerful player in the game. Plus in reading exit interviews Kat herself felt that she was in control and that Kim was following her lead. Allowing others to feel that way lessens the target quite a bit while the game is in bigger numbers. But as the game winds down and tougher decisions have to be made, it gets increasingly harder to stay in this type of comfort zone. It's pretty obvious that Kim is the power broker and is playing a very strategical game. Yet I feel that Kat was less of a threat to her than say, Sabrina who is an articulate, smart player.

Now that Sabrina is aware of her place on the totem pole, things are gonna start getting interesting in camp. I don't think she will go down without a fight. We haven't seen much strategically from Sabrina like we had earlier which leads me to feel that her edit is withholding something. Either that or leading us to think she will indeed go next and this is why. Sabrina at the beginning of the season, was my odds on favorite for the win. I see her as someone who could give Kim a run for the money so it surprises me that she hasn't tried to change things up.

In fact, it amazes me to see the power that Kim wields as pretty much everyone is stepping back (as in the case of Boston Rob) giving her a win. No one seems to be thinking of ways to beat Kim at all and challenging her. She still has the Hidden Immunity Idol which will soon run out (F5) and looks like it maybe a souvenir. Chelsea stated on the episode that she didn't want to make a choice until she checked with Kim first, for one; and everyone just seems to go with whatever Kim decides on. It's in a way very anti-climatic as by this point, there's really not much that could be done in changing things up as there are no numbers. Tarzan will go with the flow and Chelsea and Alicia feel solid with Kim while Christina seems to be struggling. I don't think at this point Sabrina will be able to flip anyone.

The loved ones visit which is my favorite episode each season didn't fail to elicit an emotional response from me. My favorite part and I am sure I echo many sentiments when I name Tarzan's. No, his wife is not Jane. No there was not a little chimp hanging out lol instead there was a lot of emotion and love. From an emotionless person like Tarzan, it was beautiful to see. Plus Christina's also was beautiful as she spoke of the courage she finds in watching her dad's fight, both were very moving. I loved it when Sabrina said that she would make sure they got loved ones time as that was important. I tweeted Sabrina that I thought her remark was thoughtful and kind.

So was Kat a good choice?

It's true she has some people who like her on the jury and it is true that at moments she did show some strategical thinking. She also is a challenge threat and if Kim wants to keep the immunities sewn up in her favor, then Kat would be a threat there.

But my perception in hindsight is that she was a follower and like Tarzan said not a thinker. Would the jury had kept that in mind? I think they would have as Kat had ample time to change things up once Troyzan warned her and the others. But instead she stayed in the comfort zone as a follower trusting Kim and the others. She may have been a threat but I still feel Kim would have won.

Now with the strategy now becoming eliminating Kim's jury threats or threats in general, I think that Christina and Tarzan may escape it for a bit.

I do feel the next ones out (unless they win IM) are Sabrina and Chelsea. Meaning there's now a possibility of Kim making a strategical move to bring Christina and Alicia to the Finals. If she is basing it on who she can beat on a vote..then those are the two logical ones to take. We'll see.

Hope everyone enjoyed the episode and as the season winds itself down, remember to keep your torch lights lit and don't miss a single episode of Survivor One World.

Finale Night is May 13th which is 10 days away!

It's THURSDAY! You know what that means! It's time for Dragon Slayer Radio baby! Tonight's episode will guest the AMAZING Gillian Larson of Reality Rally and Survivor Gabon. Call in to talk with her, Coach Wade, Cherry Garcia and Paul From Minnesota! 347=237-5506 10 PM EST! LINK

Nicole Delma Swim Across America!

2012-05-02T12:57:00.001-04:00

My friend Nicole Delma of Survivor Pearl Islands season has a wonderful cause that I would like to share below. Please everyone if you would take time to support in this effort it would be an awesome thing!

Below is information on the event Swim Across America it is a special event being held to raise funds to aid in the research and eradication of cancer. Beneficiaries are Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Research Center which maintains one of the most largest research centers available on fighting cancer.

From Nicole Delma:

"Dear friends- I'm writing because I'd like to ask for your support in raising funds for a cause that is near and dear to my heart - Cancer research. Survivor afforded me a platform in which I can make a difference and I want to make sure I take advantage of that blessing and make the most out of the chance I was given to be on the show and to have a public voice. If you can find it in your heart to donate to this very worthwhile cause, I would be so appreciative. Too many of us know someone affected by cancer and every bit of funding helps move the research forward.

I'm swimming in a race this summer to benefit cancer research. I'm not a swimmer so this is a scary and challenging venture for me but one I welcome in honor of those I know who are fighting the disease. It is sad that so many have to do so.

Please support me in this effort to raise funds for cancer research. Thank you so much!! Your donation means the world to me :)"

I am supporting Nicole in this and hope she has a successful endeavor and am very proud of her! You can do it Nicole!!

All Star Chat Hosted by Coach Wade

2012-04-27T22:44:00.001-04:00

Tuesday, May 1, 2012
10:00pm until 12:00am

The Official Benjamin Coach Wade Group

We invite you all to attend this ALL STAR EVENT featuring cast from various seasons of Survivor all in ONE NIGHT! Hosted by The Dragon Slayer Benjamin "Coach" Wade..the chat will start at 10:00 PM EST and end approximately at midnight.

The group it will be held at is

The Official Benjamin Coach Wade Group

The event to join and confirm is ALL STAR CHAT HOSTED BY COACH WADE

It's Time For Some R & R!

2012-04-27T16:39:00.002-04:00

Official Press Release
For It's Time For Some R & R!

I am excited to announce that TV Host/Spokesperson and Co-Host on Fox's new National Latin network UTILISIMA, Rita Verreos also of the Reality Show Survivor Fiji, will join together with Radio Host/Personality-Rita Hernandez of Inspiration 4 Life Radio Showand Local Hero of Inspiration Segment on KENS 5 Great Day SA Sunday Show. We will be providing a "Live" Radio Show every Monday Night, from 7:30-8:30pm!

It's the Launch of our New Regularly Scheduled Radio Program "It's Time for Some of R & R" with Rita & Rita! We are 24/7 on Inspiration 4 Life Internet Radio Station.

You can tune in online at inspiration4lifeor you can listen from anywhere around the World on your smartphone! Here is the link to help you get the APP for Free! Mobile App.

Each week we will have amazing Guests to share their stories and testimonies of Hope & Survival. We will also have Inspiring Topics that will help relate to anyone! So, you must tune in for some great surprises!

Sooooo....what now?

2012-04-26T21:16:00.005-04:00

I just got through watching Episode 11 of Survivor One World and will say upfront that yeppers I've been bamboozled! Being a fan of the show you cannot help but want to see someone who has been trying for so long to get on the show make it as far as he could get.

But bottom line tho I absolutely love Troy, this entire season I have bled Salani. So I am excited about the possibility of an all girl finish! I must say now tho, that I am not as certain as I was about a Kim win. I will explain in a bit. She definitely deserves it! But I am wondering with a predominantly male jury that when she makes the Finals (it's almost a foregone certainty she will) if the men will vote someone other than she, simply because she out played and out maneuvered the entire male tribe?

Not saying I wouldn't love a Kim win (I am like her biggest fan and any Salani girl's fan, really) But I do often wonder with the way the show's get edited, are things really as easy as they appear? I wouldn't be surprised at a Kitten Kat win actually as she reminds me of a female Fabio. She's fun and may fight to get into the Finals like he did.

In S21, you had a power player in Sash who had alliances with everyone, you had an indecisive player in Chase who received votes. But no one would ever have predicted a Fabio win. (well I did but I liked Fabio lol)

Basically, Fabio didn't tick anyone off. Plus like Coach Wade and even Holly Hoffman once explained to me, when you are in Ponderosa, you always have that one jury cast member who will campaign for or against a dominant player in favor of a less dominant player.

So whereas I would absolutely be in heaven if Kim won, I am saying I wouldn't be too shocked if it was Katt either. Just tossing a thought out there...

Kim.....she is my girl!! She is playing a seriously good game this season. My instincts told me she would go a certain way but I tend to question those sometimes and just go with what the editors toss at me sometimes. Especially if I am not paying much attention and am sitting there munching on pizza. But I am gonna take a stab and say this is how I think it may go down...(part 3 now?)

I think now that Troy is out :(( I think that Kim is going to start looking at her immediate threats. At least that is what I would do. She is going to most likely keep Christina and Tarzan around as they will vote majority. But the smarter ones...the ones who could turn the door out on you as you get deeper in..someone like Sabrina is going to be targeted. And the killer thing is..Troyzan warned her!

Chelsea is a triple threat also. She is smart. She has a really solid social game and peeps love her. Plus she can give Kim a run for the money. Now if I were a smart woman like Kim and I want for sure to win this game...Chelsea has to go also. So I think the girls will bite the dust next.

Then you take out next Cha Cha. Then Tarzan who makes the Final Four. Say what u want about Tarzan but there's a method and intelligence to his madness. He"s been careful not to tick the girls off since merge. Just like he did with Colton when Colton was power...he knew how to stay close to power and in his own way impact the game.

As did Cha Cha. Both are smarter than people are giving the credit for. But both floated between power surges and Cha Cha being made to feel on the outs all the way through. It had to have been tough for her to hear those answers though during that pecking order challenge. I agree with the players on those questions..they do make u squirm....

Troy definitely knew what was going on so no way could he stay by that point. He was Kim's alter ego so as to speak game wise. The only difference being that Kim is subtle and Troy is a roaring elephant crashing through.

Now Troy was subtle in the beginning as he knew he couldn't be loud or he would be targeted. Which is why he stepped aside and allowed Colton's reign plus why he stuck with the Misfits. If he would have been a Rooster he would have been on the bulls eye long before merge. But again, if Kim wants to win...Troy's gotta go...and vice versa. Troy had great game instincts but the only problem was he was part of some mistakes in the game made early. Salani just capitalized on those.

Now if I were Kim who would I want playing next to me as I sit talking to a jury?

I would want Alicia for one. Alicia is a smart woman but she has made a few waves. I love Alicia's smile though :) She has carefully meandered her way through and plays in a style so similar to Sandra Diaz Twine's "as long as it ain't me".

She is not as strategical as Chelsea or Sabrina, but she has never been that big a threat to Kim and the power seat. That's a street smart way to her play but will it bring her a win? Alicia does have some connections on the jury. She was friendly with the guys on Manono and Christina may feel some tribal allegiance to her. Again let's remember the Ponderosa factor....

Then we may have Katt who is either winning her way there ala Fabio or is considered a follower and a non-threat by Kim. People don't seem to take Katt seriously and Katt admits it. That could work for her in the end. If you listen to Katt she makes good points.

She knows and is aware of what's happening in the game and if not. then why would she say in a confessional about the way she has led the game herself. By playing it funny and goofy at times, no one takes you seriously. No one will target your back. The only thing I see about Katt, is that like myself, she struggles with some self esteem issues. Which is why when Kim failed to take her to the food reward, it stung as bad as it did. But Katt could be a dark horse to win this too.

However I gotta love my Kim! She has played everything like a well tuned piano. The music beautifully written that she dances by. She has maintained power and no one has tried to oust her but Troyzan and Leif. The Guys. Her girls all said in the Pecking order thing that they have complete trust in Kim. She must dream strategy in her sleep and brush her teeth with it out there as her game has so far been well played. She is deserving but will she win?

Soooooooo....what now?

The main thing is this season started out men vs women and the women have emerged triumphant! And in the end the last male standing is the very one no one thought would. The one who "lacked a social game". Who'd a thunk? Just like Fabio..so let's keep our minds open as things are not always written in stone.

Listen to Dragon Slayer Radio by going here This week's guest was Rita Verreos! Cast member on Survivor Fiji!!

Rita has a weekly radio show..listen to it here also: It's Time For Some R & R!

One on One with Gillian Larson : Reality Rally!

2012-04-25T17:19:00.001-04:00

I recently had the honor to sit down by phone and conduct a brief interview with Survivor Gabon's own Gillian Larson about her wonderful event Reality Rally. Gillian's event Reality Rally has done so many wonderful things for the community of Temecula Valley California, where Gillian resides, as well as Michelle's Place a wonderful resource for many women with breast cancer, that I felt it should be highlighted on my page here. Below are some questions concerning Reality Rally and it's history and it's impact on so many.

Brenda: Thank u Gillian for agreeing to do this interview with me. It is a pleasure doing this and sharing the wonderful event. I would like to get things started by asking this question. You are a former cast member on Season 17, Survivor Gabon; how did u get cast to the show? Were u a fan of the show previously?

Gillian: Yes I was a huge fan of Survivor from the first season and I applied from the second season on. I applied to every season. For 8 years I sent in 15 applications. I went to two open casting calls. I was brought into 2 interviews a year apart and I had a very extensive phone interview at one point. I sent in 20 applications before I finally was able to get on. I truly love the game and still love the game. My advice is to NEVER GIVE UP if you are trying to get on Survivor. If you are the right person for the right season then u will get picked. So just never give up!!!

Brenda: I love the story of how the idea for Reality Rally came about when you were walking down the beach one day in Gabon. Had you wanted to do Reality Rally previously or did Reality Rally come as a result of this walk?

Gillian: No, when my torch was snuffed out the idea for Reality Rally came about. I wanted my experience of 6 days to make a difference. I realized I was able to use my Survivor platform to do so much more with it. During the 5 weeks that I was at Ponderosa waiting for the game to end, I was training for a 60 mile walk and while training for this walk the idea for Reality Rally came about.

The vision behind Reality Rally was to enhance the community of Temecula to offer an event that anyone can be a part of and for reality stars to attend and have fun in the process. which is why we call it Fun For Funds, while raising money for a charity. It is a wonderful resource and can help so many people. Reality Rally has truly become what I envisioned in that it benefits so many more people in the community and others across the country and has done so much more than me playing Survivor could ever have done for me.

Brenda: Why Michelle's Place? What stood out about this resource?

Gillian: I had read Michelle's story about 8 years ago, she was a young woman who had been misdiagnosed with a breast lump when she was 19 and told not to worry about it. She was diagnosed at 23 with breast cancer and then died when she was 26. Michelle's Place was started about 10 years ago and they provide over 6,000 services a year for women and their families who are affected by breast cancer.

Brenda: What all goes into planning Reality Rally each year? Is it a 365 day a year thing? What goes into the staging of your event?

Gillian:
Yes it has become pretty much a full time job 365 days a year. Reality Rally takes a village to make it happen and the village is approximately 600 people. I remain in the driver's seat but all 600 of these people are a part of what makes it happen. These 600 people are volunteers, sponsors, challenge checkpoint participants. People who make the games happen. Plus our reality stars who come and take part in the event as well.

Brenda: I hear that your work covers a larger distant reach now with other countries and charities. How much of an impact does it have as that is remarkable!

Gillian: This has definitely become an event that has reached all across the world and allowed many people to be involved in helping with the fundraising. Reaching out to the reality star fan base and the reality star base the fundraising came in from nine countries, all 50 states and 455 cities. Plus the public (teams) that were part of the games their fundraising came in from 5 countries, 23 states 106 cities. So it has definitely expanded all across the world. Reality Rally is a trademark planning business that can be taken to other communities to expand their communities and their charities. We re looking into doing that this year and expanding out across the country for the same event focus.

Brenda: Looking back on this past event, is there anything that stood out to you?

Gillian: The thing that stands out to me all the time and blows my mind is just hoiw many people have taken my vision and have made it their event and their vision too. It never ceases to amaze me in fact I am completely in awe of this. The sponsors, the people who compete in the teams and the reality stars, the community and all who back us, it just never ceases to amaze me and blows my mind.

To think all of these people are making my "jungle vision" theirs as well and I remain in eternal gratitude to every one who has ever been involved at any point. it never ceases to blow my mind how much they have embraced it and made it their own. When I look back at the highlight videos that are available at the Reality Rally Home Page. I sit in awe thinking "wow!! we did that!"

Brenda: Any advice for anyone who would like to organize a yearly event?

Gillian: It takes a tremendous amount of commitment and passion and a lot of work. If you have a charity that you really want to support then you have the commitment and the passion, anyone can do it! Be prepared for a lot of work! It's the commitment, the passion and the help. Those are the 3 things that you will need to make it successful.

Brenda: Gillian u have been so wonderful! Thank u for taking time out of your busy schedule to do this interview with me. In closing, do u have any shout outs?

Gillian:
Basically, I would like to say a special thank you to all the people who have made this possible and the public and all who have supported Reality Rally throughput the past 2 years. We have a Fan Page please go LIKE the Fan Page and keep an eye out on what we are doing!