Both sides agree that the state's Child Labor Law, under which the department issues the permits, needs to be revamped. In June, Murt introduced a bill to do just that, following a two-year, high-profile investigation by the department into a complaint about the children's welfare on the set of the show, which is shot in Wernersville, Berks County.
The Labor Relations Committee will hold a hearing on the bill Sept. 23, when amendments are expected to be introduced as well. Former child actors are expected to attend the hearing in support of the bill.
http://www.philly.com/philly/gallery/20100913__Kate_Plus_Eight__kids_could_be_in_violation_of_work-permit_rules__raising_concerns.html
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Show Your Support for Bill 2515
For supporters who live in PA, please contact your own state representative because the bill will ultimately go to the full house for a vote.
For those who do not live in PA, but would like to show your support, please contact the Democratic leaders. They are the majority in the House of Representatives and are the ones who can see that things move along in both committee and on the house floor.
House Democratic Leader
Rep. Todd A. Eachus
110 Main Capitol
PO Box 202116
Harrisburg PA 17120-2116
(717) 787-2229
FAX: (717) 772-9991
Democratic Labor Committee Chairman
Rep. Robert Belfanti, Jr.
30 East Wing
PO Box 202107
Harrisburg PA 17120-2107
(717) 787-5780
FAX: (717) 787-5763
Democratic Labor Committee Vice Chairman
Rep. Mark Gergely
325 Main Capitol Building
PO Box 202035
Harrisburg PA 17120-2035
(717) 783-1018
FAX: (717) 780-4779
Other contact information:
Republican Labor Committee Chairman
Rep. Gene DiGirolamo
49 East Wing
PO Box 202018
Harrisburg PA 17120-2018
(717) 783-7319
Fax: (717) 772-2414
Sponsor of House Bill 2515
Rep. Thomas P. Murt
429 Irvis Office
PO Box 202152
Harrisburg PA 17120-2152
(717) 787-6886
Fax: (717) 260-6500
OR
19 S. York Road
Hatboro, PA 19040
215-674-3755
Fax: 215-674-3021
For those who do not live in PA, but would like to show your support, please contact the Democratic leaders. They are the majority in the House of Representatives and are the ones who can see that things move along in both committee and on the house floor.
House Democratic Leader
Rep. Todd A. Eachus
110 Main Capitol
PO Box 202116
Harrisburg PA 17120-2116
(717) 787-2229
FAX: (717) 772-9991
Democratic Labor Committee Chairman
Rep. Robert Belfanti, Jr.
30 East Wing
PO Box 202107
Harrisburg PA 17120-2107
(717) 787-5780
FAX: (717) 787-5763
Democratic Labor Committee Vice Chairman
Rep. Mark Gergely
325 Main Capitol Building
PO Box 202035
Harrisburg PA 17120-2035
(717) 783-1018
FAX: (717) 780-4779
Other contact information:
Republican Labor Committee Chairman
Rep. Gene DiGirolamo
49 East Wing
PO Box 202018
Harrisburg PA 17120-2018
(717) 783-7319
Fax: (717) 772-2414
Sponsor of House Bill 2515
Rep. Thomas P. Murt
429 Irvis Office
PO Box 202152
Harrisburg PA 17120-2152
(717) 787-6886
Fax: (717) 260-6500
OR
19 S. York Road
Hatboro, PA 19040
215-674-3755
Fax: 215-674-3021
Friday, June 4, 2010
PA Child Labor Law Bill Unveiled
Watch the press conference HERE.
http://repmurt.com/
6/3/2010 Bill would protect children involved in television and film production
Rep. Thomas P. Murt (R-Montgomery/Philadelphia) today unveiled House Bill 2515, his legislation to address deficiencies in Pennsylvania’s child labor law as it relates to television and film productions in the Commonwealth.
“Pennsylvania is becoming home to a growing number of television and film productions,” said Murt. “As more productions come to the Commonwealth, we have a responsibility to examine our laws to ensure they are sufficient to enable these productions to occur safely and that the interests of all involved are protected.”
Murt noted that between 2002 and 2008, 922 productions took place all or in part in Pennsylvania. In 2002, 31 films that were released took place in Pennsylvania. By 2008, that number increased to 175. That represents an average annual growth rate of 33 percent over that period.
“This is a growing industry in the Commonwealth and current law is not adequate to address the particular issues that come with it,” Murt added. “That is why I hosted a public hearing on this issue back in April.
“Based on the testimony we heard at the hearing, I have developed House Bill 2515,” Murt continued. “This bill is aimed at addressing several holes in the current law which were identified at the hearing.”
Murt said his legislation would:
•Require all minors to have a work permit issued by the state Department of Labor and Industry to ensure all adequate provisions have been made for the minor’s educational instruction, supervision, health and welfare.
•Restrict minors to work between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. and set guidelines for amount of hours for work, recreation, school work, and activities per work day.
•Require the presence of a “set teacher” on the set of any production. This person will serve as an advocate for the minor to ensure the minor’s health, education, and moral safety on the set. In addition, this person will monitor the working conditions, the minor’s mental health, and the demands placed on the minor to ensure they are appropriate to the minor’s age, strength, and stamina.
•Require that 15 percent of a minor’s gross earnings be set aside by the employer in a trust for the minor. At least one parent or legal guardian shall be trustee of these funds unless otherwise determined by a court.
Murt said his bill has been introduced and he is hopeful it will receive consideration by the full House and Senate before the end of the legislative session.
Rep. Thomas P. Murt
152nd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(215) 674-3755
(717) 787-6886
Contact: Sean Yeakle
syeakle@pahousegop.com
(717) 787-3406
Member Site: RepMurt.com
Caucus Site: PAHouseGOP.com
http://repmurt.com/NewsItem.aspx?NewsID=9057
http://repmurt.com/
6/3/2010 Bill would protect children involved in television and film production
Rep. Thomas P. Murt (R-Montgomery/Philadelphia) today unveiled House Bill 2515, his legislation to address deficiencies in Pennsylvania’s child labor law as it relates to television and film productions in the Commonwealth.
“Pennsylvania is becoming home to a growing number of television and film productions,” said Murt. “As more productions come to the Commonwealth, we have a responsibility to examine our laws to ensure they are sufficient to enable these productions to occur safely and that the interests of all involved are protected.”
Murt noted that between 2002 and 2008, 922 productions took place all or in part in Pennsylvania. In 2002, 31 films that were released took place in Pennsylvania. By 2008, that number increased to 175. That represents an average annual growth rate of 33 percent over that period.
“This is a growing industry in the Commonwealth and current law is not adequate to address the particular issues that come with it,” Murt added. “That is why I hosted a public hearing on this issue back in April.
“Based on the testimony we heard at the hearing, I have developed House Bill 2515,” Murt continued. “This bill is aimed at addressing several holes in the current law which were identified at the hearing.”
Murt said his legislation would:
•Require all minors to have a work permit issued by the state Department of Labor and Industry to ensure all adequate provisions have been made for the minor’s educational instruction, supervision, health and welfare.
•Restrict minors to work between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. and set guidelines for amount of hours for work, recreation, school work, and activities per work day.
•Require the presence of a “set teacher” on the set of any production. This person will serve as an advocate for the minor to ensure the minor’s health, education, and moral safety on the set. In addition, this person will monitor the working conditions, the minor’s mental health, and the demands placed on the minor to ensure they are appropriate to the minor’s age, strength, and stamina.
•Require that 15 percent of a minor’s gross earnings be set aside by the employer in a trust for the minor. At least one parent or legal guardian shall be trustee of these funds unless otherwise determined by a court.
Murt said his bill has been introduced and he is hopeful it will receive consideration by the full House and Senate before the end of the legislative session.
Rep. Thomas P. Murt
152nd District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
(215) 674-3755
(717) 787-6886
Contact: Sean Yeakle
syeakle@pahousegop.com
(717) 787-3406
Member Site: RepMurt.com
Caucus Site: PAHouseGOP.com
http://repmurt.com/NewsItem.aspx?NewsID=9057
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Update
PA State Rep. Thomas Murt - Murt to Host Hearing on Pennsylvania’s Child Labor Laws and Reality TV: "Rep. Thomas P. Murt (R-Montgomery/Philadelphia) will host a hearing of the House Republican Policy Committee to discuss Pennsylvania’s child labor laws as they relate to film and television production".
Watch the hearing HERE.
Jodi was interviewed today on "The Medical View" discussing Child Labor Laws and Reality TV.
Listen to the radio interview HERE.
The Medical View Educate, Empower & Enlighten: "WWDB 860AM Philadelphia"
Watch the hearing HERE.
Jodi was interviewed today on "The Medical View" discussing Child Labor Laws and Reality TV.
Listen to the radio interview HERE.
The Medical View Educate, Empower & Enlighten: "WWDB 860AM Philadelphia"
Monday, October 26, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Children Before Outcomes
A Social Experiment That Needs To End
October 20, 2009
A thoughtful supporter of A Minor Consideration, Elizabeth Miller of Atlanta, Georgia, wrote to us on our Facebook page to ask if these children on reality shows aren’t more closely related to kids involved in medical research studies…and if they are, why aren’t the same ethical standards used to protect them?
In medical research, if a researcher has cause to believe that harm will come to a child involved in a medical study the project must be shut down.
Period.
“Children before Outcomes.” What a concept. Is it too much to ask that entertainment executives be held to that same standard the instant they hear a “pitch” that involves children?
Just when you think you’ve seen everything, along comes Balloon Boy. If the sight of a six year-old vomiting victim, Falcon Heene, torn between truth and parental deception, isn’t enough to shut down the reality show industry that is so wantonly exploiting children, then I don’t know what it will take.
Don’t you see the path we’re on? What a terrible time to be a child in America. No one can take comfort in telling themselves they would never expose their own children to this sort of entertainment drivel because the alarming truth is the message is being spread to children all over this country in unmistakable fashion.
If your dysfunctional parents want to sell you out, you are on the market and your Right to Privacy be damned.
Forget the Law or basic morality. The adults charged with protecting you are in it for themselves, not you.
Paychecks and pensions mean more to grown-ups than your welfare, even if it means ignoring existing law and regulations.
If the media can gain a ratings point or two, you, my child, are completely unprotected. Everyone will be paid, but you won’t be.
Paul Petersen
October 20, 2009
A thoughtful supporter of A Minor Consideration, Elizabeth Miller of Atlanta, Georgia, wrote to us on our Facebook page to ask if these children on reality shows aren’t more closely related to kids involved in medical research studies…and if they are, why aren’t the same ethical standards used to protect them?
In medical research, if a researcher has cause to believe that harm will come to a child involved in a medical study the project must be shut down.
Period.
“Children before Outcomes.” What a concept. Is it too much to ask that entertainment executives be held to that same standard the instant they hear a “pitch” that involves children?
Just when you think you’ve seen everything, along comes Balloon Boy. If the sight of a six year-old vomiting victim, Falcon Heene, torn between truth and parental deception, isn’t enough to shut down the reality show industry that is so wantonly exploiting children, then I don’t know what it will take.
Don’t you see the path we’re on? What a terrible time to be a child in America. No one can take comfort in telling themselves they would never expose their own children to this sort of entertainment drivel because the alarming truth is the message is being spread to children all over this country in unmistakable fashion.
If your dysfunctional parents want to sell you out, you are on the market and your Right to Privacy be damned.
Forget the Law or basic morality. The adults charged with protecting you are in it for themselves, not you.
Paychecks and pensions mean more to grown-ups than your welfare, even if it means ignoring existing law and regulations.
If the media can gain a ratings point or two, you, my child, are completely unprotected. Everyone will be paid, but you won’t be.
Paul Petersen
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Concerns for Children in Reality TV
More attention needs to be brought to the fact that Reality TV can be very harmful, especially when there are children involved. It's been almost 2 years now that I was made aware of issues surrounding the filming of Jon and Kate plus 8, and the intense stress the children were under. Those who state that the children are just "playing" and are not affected by the stresses of being part of a TV show are lying. Since then, more and more shows have popped up. We've also had the controversy earlier this year surrounding Nadya Suleman and now the Heene family.
A few excerpts from The Wrap:
A Wrap investigation shows that the reality of reality shows is not nearly so benign: at least 11 reality-show participants have taken their own lives – and two more who have tried to – in tragedies that appear to be linked to their experience on television shows.
You can read the entire article HERE. This article is only referring to the stresses that adults have experienced as a result of Reality TV. These adults gave their consent and understood, to some extent, what they were signing up for. Imagine how devastating Reality TV can be for children who are unable to give consent and are forced to participate because their parents are in complete control.
“Children can't give informed consent by definition, only the parents can do that -- and reality shows generally don't cast adults who have the highest level of mental health. They are severe narcissists who are obsessed with celebrity.”
“The permanency of the images of the children potty training, bathing and having temper tantrums on camera will open them up to derision and bullying as they get older,” says Paul Peterson, who starred in “The Donna Reed Show” in the late 50s and 60s.
For Peterson -- who with his nonprofit group A Minor Consideration has been a long-time advocate of safeguarding Hollywood’s on-camera children -- long-term pain is the likely consequence of short-term fame.
“Down the line, once the show is over and the cameras have gone,” he asserts, “there will likely be no help for them from predators and others seeking to take advantage of them.”
You can read the entire article HERE.
I was a little surprised at the huge backlash against Nadya Suleman earlier this year, when the same media outlets seem to ignore the fact that Kate is using her children in the very same way. She has been successful, and now it seems like more people want to follow in her footsteps and use their children to achieve fame and fortune.
Just look at the recent actions of the Heene family, and their history of appearing in a Reality Show and their pursuit for their own show.
An excerpt from denverpost.com:
When a television camera is invited into the home, even little kids feel the pressure to get with the program, psychologists say.
Viral videos, reality-TV shows and any other mass-media exposure disrupt normal family dynamics, said Miami psychologist Jamie Huysman, whose practice has treated more than 800 "victims" of reality shows.
The camera, he said, introduces an agenda that has nothing to do with nurturing — and everything to do with entertainment.
"It is exploitation," Huysman said. "Nobody wants to watch normal behavior. Kids have to be co-conspirators to get the camera to stay on."
AbuseWatch.net has posted their position on the use of children in Reality TV shows. You can read the entire article HERE.
As it is now, ‘reality’ show children are, for the most part, treated differently from children classified as actors. This is because they are regarding as ‘participants,’ like people in a documentary. This classification excludes them from federal and state child labor laws as the camera is recording their activities as opposed to their performance of roles. As such they do not earn a wage, are not classified as employees nor do they receive the benefits that a classification of ‘child actor’ would give them. The TV production company is therefore not employing these minors and ignore child labor laws.
A few excerpts from The Wrap:
A Wrap investigation shows that the reality of reality shows is not nearly so benign: at least 11 reality-show participants have taken their own lives – and two more who have tried to – in tragedies that appear to be linked to their experience on television shows.
You can read the entire article HERE. This article is only referring to the stresses that adults have experienced as a result of Reality TV. These adults gave their consent and understood, to some extent, what they were signing up for. Imagine how devastating Reality TV can be for children who are unable to give consent and are forced to participate because their parents are in complete control.
“Children can't give informed consent by definition, only the parents can do that -- and reality shows generally don't cast adults who have the highest level of mental health. They are severe narcissists who are obsessed with celebrity.”
“The permanency of the images of the children potty training, bathing and having temper tantrums on camera will open them up to derision and bullying as they get older,” says Paul Peterson, who starred in “The Donna Reed Show” in the late 50s and 60s.
For Peterson -- who with his nonprofit group A Minor Consideration has been a long-time advocate of safeguarding Hollywood’s on-camera children -- long-term pain is the likely consequence of short-term fame.
“Down the line, once the show is over and the cameras have gone,” he asserts, “there will likely be no help for them from predators and others seeking to take advantage of them.”
You can read the entire article HERE.
I was a little surprised at the huge backlash against Nadya Suleman earlier this year, when the same media outlets seem to ignore the fact that Kate is using her children in the very same way. She has been successful, and now it seems like more people want to follow in her footsteps and use their children to achieve fame and fortune.
Just look at the recent actions of the Heene family, and their history of appearing in a Reality Show and their pursuit for their own show.
An excerpt from denverpost.com:
When a television camera is invited into the home, even little kids feel the pressure to get with the program, psychologists say.
Viral videos, reality-TV shows and any other mass-media exposure disrupt normal family dynamics, said Miami psychologist Jamie Huysman, whose practice has treated more than 800 "victims" of reality shows.
The camera, he said, introduces an agenda that has nothing to do with nurturing — and everything to do with entertainment.
"It is exploitation," Huysman said. "Nobody wants to watch normal behavior. Kids have to be co-conspirators to get the camera to stay on."
AbuseWatch.net has posted their position on the use of children in Reality TV shows. You can read the entire article HERE.
As it is now, ‘reality’ show children are, for the most part, treated differently from children classified as actors. This is because they are regarding as ‘participants,’ like people in a documentary. This classification excludes them from federal and state child labor laws as the camera is recording their activities as opposed to their performance of roles. As such they do not earn a wage, are not classified as employees nor do they receive the benefits that a classification of ‘child actor’ would give them. The TV production company is therefore not employing these minors and ignore child labor laws.
It's obvious that some people will go to extreme measures, even using their young children, in order to gain the fame and fortune that Reality TV shows provide. Unfortunately, these shows are successful, and controversy sells. It's time to get laws in place to protect ALL children involved in these Reality TV shows. I personally don't believe any child should participate in Reality TV. Although I know there will never be laws to prevent parents from forcing their children to appear on TV, at the very least, these children deserve the same laws that protect child actors.
As I said recently, timing is everything! The Heene family balloon saga is just another incident that should bring to light the fact that some parents will use their children for their own agenda. We can't trust parents to make the right decisions when their judgment is being clouded by hopes of fame and fortune. With all of the recent media coverage, I continue to hope that the right people will step up and that change will happen very soon!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Team 8
I've seen some discussions about my post from Thursday. I’d like to share what I was thinking when I wrote that.
I find it amazing that when you think things may be hopeless, a series of events take place, all the "stars align", and everything just seems to fall into place. At times, we may think we know what is best or how things should go, and actually lose sight of the bigger picture. I have a very strong faith, and I truly believe that God's timing is perfect. Patience is not easy. Sometimes we don't understand why we have to wait, and then it all starts to make sense. I’m not going to question the timing of Jon’s decision or even his motives. No one knows the private conversations he’s had with his children. Circumstances are constantly changing, and I’m just thankful that he now realizes that as a parent, he still has a say. Jon has every right to question the contract, change his mind, and be involved in decisions that relate to his children. TLC may think they own the family due to some TV contract, but TLC is not a parent of the Gosselin children.
It's easier to see things from a different perspective looking from the outside in. Sometimes it takes getting away from the situation to realize how bad things really have become. Please remember that Jon and Kate are just ordinary people with no experience in the entertainment industry. I firmly believe that TLC took advantage of that innocence, and although it's easy to say what should have been done, when and how, sometimes things aren’t as simple as they may appear. On the other hand, something that may seem to be so complicated and hopeless may actually be very simple after all.
Everyone has an agenda. Each strategic move leads to the next, but if the right people can use what they are given at the right time, everything can change. Each party may not even be aware that they are part of a bigger plan, they may not be doing things for the “right” reasons, but when an opportunity presents itself--that is when it is time to move. Please don’t get too wrapped up in the timing of Jon’s decision or his motives. None of that really matters in the long run, as long as he is able to give the children their privacy back.
I hate to see people fall for the distraction of Team Jon or Team Kate. All of that is just to deflect attention away from what everyone should really be talking about—the children. Momentum is moving in the right direction. I’m hopeful that the discussion will turn to the lack of laws and how detrimental “Reality” TV can be when children are involved. The he said/she said, motives, speculation, conspiracy theories, etc—none of that changes the fact that there aren’t adequate laws to protect ALL children in ALL states who are working in the entertainment industry.
I find it amazing that when you think things may be hopeless, a series of events take place, all the "stars align", and everything just seems to fall into place. At times, we may think we know what is best or how things should go, and actually lose sight of the bigger picture. I have a very strong faith, and I truly believe that God's timing is perfect. Patience is not easy. Sometimes we don't understand why we have to wait, and then it all starts to make sense. I’m not going to question the timing of Jon’s decision or even his motives. No one knows the private conversations he’s had with his children. Circumstances are constantly changing, and I’m just thankful that he now realizes that as a parent, he still has a say. Jon has every right to question the contract, change his mind, and be involved in decisions that relate to his children. TLC may think they own the family due to some TV contract, but TLC is not a parent of the Gosselin children.
It's easier to see things from a different perspective looking from the outside in. Sometimes it takes getting away from the situation to realize how bad things really have become. Please remember that Jon and Kate are just ordinary people with no experience in the entertainment industry. I firmly believe that TLC took advantage of that innocence, and although it's easy to say what should have been done, when and how, sometimes things aren’t as simple as they may appear. On the other hand, something that may seem to be so complicated and hopeless may actually be very simple after all.
Everyone has an agenda. Each strategic move leads to the next, but if the right people can use what they are given at the right time, everything can change. Each party may not even be aware that they are part of a bigger plan, they may not be doing things for the “right” reasons, but when an opportunity presents itself--that is when it is time to move. Please don’t get too wrapped up in the timing of Jon’s decision or his motives. None of that really matters in the long run, as long as he is able to give the children their privacy back.
I hate to see people fall for the distraction of Team Jon or Team Kate. All of that is just to deflect attention away from what everyone should really be talking about—the children. Momentum is moving in the right direction. I’m hopeful that the discussion will turn to the lack of laws and how detrimental “Reality” TV can be when children are involved. The he said/she said, motives, speculation, conspiracy theories, etc—none of that changes the fact that there aren’t adequate laws to protect ALL children in ALL states who are working in the entertainment industry.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Friday, August 21, 2009
Children Employed in Entertainment are Exempt from Federal Child Labor Laws
Mr. Petersen raises more concerns for children involved with Reality TV.
Click HERE to read the entire article.
Even more chilling for me is the awareness that other children working in states outside California are being subjected to similar exposure that will, I promise you, have life-long consequences. Most of the children employed in so-called reality shows do not have California's protections, which last night we observed in the breech, and it is a national disgrace that children employed in entertainment are exempt from federal child labor laws and have been since 1938 with the passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
I am ashamed by the Industry that raised me. I am ashamed of the national media that is now trafficking in the images of children who are incapable of providing Informed Consent and do not have the power to disobey.
My wife and I have played by the rules, even passing meaningful legislation at great personal and professional cost. Today is a day of reckoning. Surely someone on Capitol Hill or living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue watched last night's broadcast. I am pleading with you to fix this, for if you cannot protect the most visible children in the world from what we saw last night then everything else you have to say from Health Care to the National Debt is meaningless because your silence means that the promise of childhood in America is dead.
Click HERE to read the entire article.
Even more chilling for me is the awareness that other children working in states outside California are being subjected to similar exposure that will, I promise you, have life-long consequences. Most of the children employed in so-called reality shows do not have California's protections, which last night we observed in the breech, and it is a national disgrace that children employed in entertainment are exempt from federal child labor laws and have been since 1938 with the passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
I am ashamed by the Industry that raised me. I am ashamed of the national media that is now trafficking in the images of children who are incapable of providing Informed Consent and do not have the power to disobey.
My wife and I have played by the rules, even passing meaningful legislation at great personal and professional cost. Today is a day of reckoning. Surely someone on Capitol Hill or living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue watched last night's broadcast. I am pleading with you to fix this, for if you cannot protect the most visible children in the world from what we saw last night then everything else you have to say from Health Care to the National Debt is meaningless because your silence means that the promise of childhood in America is dead.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Focus Should Stay on the Children
Kevin and Jodi will be interviewed on the CBS Early Show tomorrow.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Advice from some Industry Insiders
I found this advice on another blog, and wanted to pass it along. Many people have asked how they can help. Please read the advice from some industry insiders.
LA TV industry insider said...
I've worked in the tv industry (NOT at TLC/Discovery) for 20 years and am embarrassed by the J&K show. We are not all like this. Let me offer some info and advice.
Smart comment made earlier by someone that the window to affect the show's status is right now. But you must have impact in front of the people who are making advertising, merchandising, investment decisions. That means posting your comments in places they read. Not People, TMZ or Access Hollywood.
--You need to post in places that reach the entertainment business industry such as that Flackback column about the Discovery ceo at TheWrap; the New York Times Media Decoder column; Advertising Age; Broadcasting & Cable magazine.
--Contact your cable or satellite company's main office - remember that they pay Discovery a fee to carry their channels, which comes from your monthly bill.
--Write the discovery board. Go to corporate.discovery.com and write to the business partners mentioned in their press releases.
**And remember that Discovery also owns/programs Discovery Channel, Military Channel, Animal Planet, Oprah's coming network, etc. Mention them. Expand your focus.
The show is on hiatus in terms of airing new episodes ONLY. That doesn't mean they are on hiatus in regard to filming. I believe they are probably still in production now, filming everything imaginable as they try to figure out how to continue the show without alienating viewers. The 6 weeks between today and the return of new episodes is very little time to try and sort out what this new animal will be.
And finally, pay attention to the frequent discrepancies in their stated timelines about problems and plans. Note that all they really say during the show is that they've decided to separate. And realize that due to routine TV post-production, scheduling and network review steps, this episode has to have been fully completed at least a week earlier than its airdate. And K's filing of divorce papers was done AFTER the episode was completed. She seems to have only given the producers enough information and advance warning for them to add the small written update at the end. Did K do it, and time it, to win the publicity war? Probably. But the "big announcement" that TLC planned on seems to have been just the separation. And to bring this all full-circle, K's filing successfully threw the entire series into a level of chaos and uncertainty that Discovery could never have imagined. What it does is open the door wider for people to have more influence on its future.
**************************************************
Advice From Someone In Marketing said...
Hello All:
I have been a long-time reader of this site but this is my first time posting. I work in marketing (unrelated to TLC/Discovery) and I wanted to follow up on "LA TV Insider's" advice.
This person's advice is dead on. The trade publications (AdAge, PRWeek, Media Decoder et al) are where you want to go if you want to get the ear of those who make decisions. NOT, TMZ, Just Jared, People, Us etc...
You also want them to know something about you when you post so they can quantify the market they are losing. You don't have to tell them too much, but just a little something. Without this information they are likely to write you off as a "crazy," or a "nut."
Your comment/reply should tell them 1.) What type of consumer you are 2.) You are unhappy with the situation 3.) You have taken actions because of your dissatisfaction.
For Example:
"I am a 32 year old divorced mother of 2 with a household income of $45k/yr. I am outraged by the continued exploitation of these 8 children and can no longer tolerate it. I was once a loyal [viewer/shopper] of [show/channel/store/product] but due to the [show/channel/store/product] role in this situation I no longer [view/buy.]"
I hope this helps.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Please Stop Watching
Waiting
I keep reading that the PA Department of Labor is investigating the show. To my knowledge, people who have filed complaints and have actually been present during filming have not even been acknowledged, interviewed...nothing!
Mr. Petersen is also experiencing the same frustrations.
http://www.minorcon.org/waiting.html
What can explain the failure of folks to make use of the communications tools as close as their computer or telephone? Is it just me, or do others wonder why the higher-ups at TLC, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, or the so-called professionals surrounding Nadya Suleman can't bring themselves to pick up the telephone and call A Minor Consideration?
Is there some reason the team around Jon and Kate just can't see their way clear to involving the premiere experts in the totality of the risks unique to children in entertainment?
Is it guilt or fear? Those are poor excuses when the welfare of dozens of children is at stake.
It is absolutely clear that mistakes have been made by parents and production companies alike, and that whatever advice and counsel may have been sought has been sickeningly misguided.
"What we have here," said Strother Martin in "Cool Hand Luke," "is a failure to communicate."
It is the height of corporate irresponsibility to employ children in profit-making endeavors and pretend that there are no consequences…now or in the future.
Generations of parents who exposed their flesh-and-blood to celebrity have learned to their sorrow that they didn't know best.
State labor officials need to recognize how dangerous their lack of knowledge of the production process can be when children are employed, especially in reality shows, which are all show and no reality.
The legal advisors to those named above might want to take a look at the principle of Disaffirmance, for I can promise you that when the kids you are employing get around to calling us on their 18th birthday every dollar you think you saved by not treating them fairly will be multiplied a hundred-fold.
Count on it
A Minor Consideration does not engage in "I told you so" if that is your concern. We deal in the present and the future as only we know it.
There is no excuse for child abuse.
And finally, if there is anyone in the White House who wants to know how the $68 million dollars committed to global child labor the President just announced might be better spent right here at home, you're welcome to call, too.
Paul Petersen
Mr. Petersen is also experiencing the same frustrations.
http://www.minorcon.org/waiting.html
What can explain the failure of folks to make use of the communications tools as close as their computer or telephone? Is it just me, or do others wonder why the higher-ups at TLC, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, or the so-called professionals surrounding Nadya Suleman can't bring themselves to pick up the telephone and call A Minor Consideration?
Is there some reason the team around Jon and Kate just can't see their way clear to involving the premiere experts in the totality of the risks unique to children in entertainment?
Is it guilt or fear? Those are poor excuses when the welfare of dozens of children is at stake.
It is absolutely clear that mistakes have been made by parents and production companies alike, and that whatever advice and counsel may have been sought has been sickeningly misguided.
"What we have here," said Strother Martin in "Cool Hand Luke," "is a failure to communicate."
It is the height of corporate irresponsibility to employ children in profit-making endeavors and pretend that there are no consequences…now or in the future.
Generations of parents who exposed their flesh-and-blood to celebrity have learned to their sorrow that they didn't know best.
State labor officials need to recognize how dangerous their lack of knowledge of the production process can be when children are employed, especially in reality shows, which are all show and no reality.
The legal advisors to those named above might want to take a look at the principle of Disaffirmance, for I can promise you that when the kids you are employing get around to calling us on their 18th birthday every dollar you think you saved by not treating them fairly will be multiplied a hundred-fold.
Count on it
A Minor Consideration does not engage in "I told you so" if that is your concern. We deal in the present and the future as only we know it.
There is no excuse for child abuse.
And finally, if there is anyone in the White House who wants to know how the $68 million dollars committed to global child labor the President just announced might be better spent right here at home, you're welcome to call, too.
Paul Petersen
Friday, June 5, 2009
Paul Petersen, A Minor Consideration
Regarding the Gosselin Children: The Basis for our Concern
There is a predictable quality to the impact of Fame on children, and we ignore it at our peril. This morning I sat in the very same CBS interview chair I occupied 90 days ago to speak about the ill-defined workplace that surrounds the "+ 8" from "Jon & Kate," the same chair where three months ago I warned about the potential for disaster in the lives of the two children from "Slum Dog Millionaire," a warning, I might add, that played out far sooner than I anticipated. Please, when it comes to the consequences of notoriety on children in the spotlight, who has proven to be right more often than wrong?
This is not a recreational debate. The future of Jon and Kate's children is at issue, and while everyone is entitled to their own opinion, not everyone is entitled to alter the facts of this matter.
The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
Employer--Any person who for his own account or benefit or that of his patrons, directly or indirectly, or through an employee, agent, independent contractor, or any other person employs or permits any minor to work in theatrical productions, musical recitals or concerts, entertainment acts, modeling, radio, television, motion picture making, or in other similar forms or media of entertainment.
Employment--A minor engaged in a performance shall be deemed employed, if any person, including the performer, his parent or teacher, receives remuneration from the performance or if any performer in the production is paid for performing.
Pennsylvania does, in fact, have laws and regulations governing the protection of Minors involved in the performing arts. Five years ago, when "Jon & Kate + 8" first arrived in our living rooms, it was a far cry from today's slickly-mounted presentation. Jon and Kate were different people then, and we all sympathized with the extraordinary pressures they were under with six preemies to care for, and a set of adorable twins to nurture as well. No one, including A Minor Consideration, was worried about child labor laws. The initial situation was almost certainly "news" by anyone's definition.
Things have changed. The old Gosselin house became a television studio. Blood-relatives were shunted to the sidelines. The 'freebies' started to come in bunches, from plastic surgery to family vacations. TLC began to brag about ratings and the lurking evil of public relations came out of the closet. Big money was suddenly on the table. Appearance fees and book deals materialized, as did a much larger house in which to film the Gosselins, plus private schools and a paid household staff to "manage" the brood.
"Jon & Kate + 8" became a commercial enterprise, spawning loads of imitators on the network, and luring marginally competent people into believing that bearing a boatload of infants was a ticket to fame and fortune. America, sadly, tragically, soaked this up without giving a thought to the impact on the lives of the children exposed to the ravenous maw of the media.
Until now.
Could it be true that no one gave a thought to the status of the children because after all is said and done they are the property of their parents? Besides, just being on television ought to be good enough for a kid, even eight of 'em, right?
Just look what we've done by going along with this fiction that reality shows are somehow different than scripted television shows. Not only have we deluded ourselves that the presence of cameras have no impact on the participants, we've somehow suspended disbelief when it comes to the calculated deliberations of the production team that puts all the elements together, deliberations in the case of "J&K+8" that involve the admitted participation of Jon and Kate.
When the Writers Guild of America went out on strike last year one of their demands was that the writers of reality television be covered under the Basic Agreement. Keep that in mind.
If the sad but predictable saga of the two children sent back to the slums after starring in "Slum Dog Millionaire" has any meaning to you, if you followed the denials and tortured explanations of that film's producers and director, you will have a better understanding of the "spin" being issued by TLC and Jon and Kate Gosselin who now claim that they spared no effort to protect the children. TLC, ignoring the obvious marital problems, now says the filming of the children is limited to a couple of days per week and the cameras no longer film in the kids' bedrooms.
No mention is made of the images already broadcast and cemented for all time on the Internet. That ship, you see, has already sailed and sunk.
This is a monumental mess, my friends, and a window into the true state of childhood in America these days. Dozens of innocent children are currently featured on so-called reality television shows, and hundreds more are potential fodder in hostile jurisdictions all over the world.
It's time to put the reality genie back in the bottle. This plea for a return to sanity isn't about this author, or even the gaggle of former kid stars who have been trying to share the lessons of their lives with you for decades.
We look forward to the results of the formal investigations now going on in Pennsylvania and California. Subpoenas have been issued in California and witnesses are coming forward in both states. It's hard to put the wheels of justice in motion, but once they're moving they are impossible to stop.
http://www.minorcon.org/index.html
There is a predictable quality to the impact of Fame on children, and we ignore it at our peril. This morning I sat in the very same CBS interview chair I occupied 90 days ago to speak about the ill-defined workplace that surrounds the "+ 8" from "Jon & Kate," the same chair where three months ago I warned about the potential for disaster in the lives of the two children from "Slum Dog Millionaire," a warning, I might add, that played out far sooner than I anticipated. Please, when it comes to the consequences of notoriety on children in the spotlight, who has proven to be right more often than wrong?
This is not a recreational debate. The future of Jon and Kate's children is at issue, and while everyone is entitled to their own opinion, not everyone is entitled to alter the facts of this matter.
§ 11.1. Definitions.
The following words and terms, when used in this subchapter, have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
Employer--Any person who for his own account or benefit or that of his patrons, directly or indirectly, or through an employee, agent, independent contractor, or any other person employs or permits any minor to work in theatrical productions, musical recitals or concerts, entertainment acts, modeling, radio, television, motion picture making, or in other similar forms or media of entertainment.
Employment--A minor engaged in a performance shall be deemed employed, if any person, including the performer, his parent or teacher, receives remuneration from the performance or if any performer in the production is paid for performing.
Pennsylvania does, in fact, have laws and regulations governing the protection of Minors involved in the performing arts. Five years ago, when "Jon & Kate + 8" first arrived in our living rooms, it was a far cry from today's slickly-mounted presentation. Jon and Kate were different people then, and we all sympathized with the extraordinary pressures they were under with six preemies to care for, and a set of adorable twins to nurture as well. No one, including A Minor Consideration, was worried about child labor laws. The initial situation was almost certainly "news" by anyone's definition.
Things have changed. The old Gosselin house became a television studio. Blood-relatives were shunted to the sidelines. The 'freebies' started to come in bunches, from plastic surgery to family vacations. TLC began to brag about ratings and the lurking evil of public relations came out of the closet. Big money was suddenly on the table. Appearance fees and book deals materialized, as did a much larger house in which to film the Gosselins, plus private schools and a paid household staff to "manage" the brood.
"Jon & Kate + 8" became a commercial enterprise, spawning loads of imitators on the network, and luring marginally competent people into believing that bearing a boatload of infants was a ticket to fame and fortune. America, sadly, tragically, soaked this up without giving a thought to the impact on the lives of the children exposed to the ravenous maw of the media.
Until now.
Could it be true that no one gave a thought to the status of the children because after all is said and done they are the property of their parents? Besides, just being on television ought to be good enough for a kid, even eight of 'em, right?
Just look what we've done by going along with this fiction that reality shows are somehow different than scripted television shows. Not only have we deluded ourselves that the presence of cameras have no impact on the participants, we've somehow suspended disbelief when it comes to the calculated deliberations of the production team that puts all the elements together, deliberations in the case of "J&K+8" that involve the admitted participation of Jon and Kate.
When the Writers Guild of America went out on strike last year one of their demands was that the writers of reality television be covered under the Basic Agreement. Keep that in mind.
If the sad but predictable saga of the two children sent back to the slums after starring in "Slum Dog Millionaire" has any meaning to you, if you followed the denials and tortured explanations of that film's producers and director, you will have a better understanding of the "spin" being issued by TLC and Jon and Kate Gosselin who now claim that they spared no effort to protect the children. TLC, ignoring the obvious marital problems, now says the filming of the children is limited to a couple of days per week and the cameras no longer film in the kids' bedrooms.
No mention is made of the images already broadcast and cemented for all time on the Internet. That ship, you see, has already sailed and sunk.
This is a monumental mess, my friends, and a window into the true state of childhood in America these days. Dozens of innocent children are currently featured on so-called reality television shows, and hundreds more are potential fodder in hostile jurisdictions all over the world.
It's time to put the reality genie back in the bottle. This plea for a return to sanity isn't about this author, or even the gaggle of former kid stars who have been trying to share the lessons of their lives with you for decades.
We look forward to the results of the formal investigations now going on in Pennsylvania and California. Subpoenas have been issued in California and witnesses are coming forward in both states. It's hard to put the wheels of justice in motion, but once they're moving they are impossible to stop.
http://www.minorcon.org/index.html
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Monday, June 1, 2009
The Children ARE Working
I just read an article on USA Today.com and I feel the need to respond to a few things. You can read the entire article HERE.
Eileen O'Neill, president and general manager of TLC, made a few statements that need to be addressed.
First:
In a statement, TLC said it "fully complies with all applicable laws and regulations. Jon & Kate Plus 8 is no exception. For an extended period of time, we have been engaged in cooperative discussions and supplied all requested information to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor."
Notice the carefully worded sentence...TLC fully complies with all APPLICABLE laws and regulations. This is exactly the point that many people are trying to make! There are NO laws that apply! This is the "dirty little secret" in reality TV. I'm not just talking about Jon and Kate plus 8. This applies to ALL children WORKING in "reality" TV. The industry wants everyone to believe that the children aren't working. They want you to believe this is all innocent and the cameras are just following these families around and capturing spontaneous moments. The kids are having fun, just doing what they would normally do.
They don't want people to know that it takes many, many hours, sometimes days to film enough footage to make one 30 min episode. I read in another article that TLC said they are only filming 2 hrs/day...2 days/wk. That is absolutely NOT TRUE! Look back at the episodes and see for yourself. Look at the list of episodes and count how many they've aired over the last 2 yrs. They are in Season 5, but the series didn't debut until April 2007. That's almost 100 episodes in 2 years time. Seasons 2-5 have been running back to back. There has been no break!
The children in reality TV ARE working. Think about the number of people who are involved in order to make a TV show--writers, producers, directors, camera/sound crew. Look at the credits at the end of the show, it's all there! All of these people, including their parents, are working and getting a paycheck. BUT since the show is labeled "reality", the children aren't considered to be working. They aren't getting paid, and therefore aren't protected under child labor laws.
Eileen O'Neill, president and general manager of TLC, made a few statements that need to be addressed.
First:
In a statement, TLC said it "fully complies with all applicable laws and regulations. Jon & Kate Plus 8 is no exception. For an extended period of time, we have been engaged in cooperative discussions and supplied all requested information to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor."
Notice the carefully worded sentence...TLC fully complies with all APPLICABLE laws and regulations. This is exactly the point that many people are trying to make! There are NO laws that apply! This is the "dirty little secret" in reality TV. I'm not just talking about Jon and Kate plus 8. This applies to ALL children WORKING in "reality" TV. The industry wants everyone to believe that the children aren't working. They want you to believe this is all innocent and the cameras are just following these families around and capturing spontaneous moments. The kids are having fun, just doing what they would normally do.
They don't want people to know that it takes many, many hours, sometimes days to film enough footage to make one 30 min episode. I read in another article that TLC said they are only filming 2 hrs/day...2 days/wk. That is absolutely NOT TRUE! Look back at the episodes and see for yourself. Look at the list of episodes and count how many they've aired over the last 2 yrs. They are in Season 5, but the series didn't debut until April 2007. That's almost 100 episodes in 2 years time. Seasons 2-5 have been running back to back. There has been no break!
The children in reality TV ARE working. Think about the number of people who are involved in order to make a TV show--writers, producers, directors, camera/sound crew. Look at the credits at the end of the show, it's all there! All of these people, including their parents, are working and getting a paycheck. BUT since the show is labeled "reality", the children aren't considered to be working. They aren't getting paid, and therefore aren't protected under child labor laws.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
What Can I Do?
My inbox is being flooded with emails asking, "What Can I do?" It's so encouraging to know that our message is getting out there, and people are realizing that children in reality TV need laws to protect them.
Paul Petersen established the organization A Minor Consideration to support child stars and other child laborers through legislation, family education, and personal intervention and counseling for those in crisis. I'm in contact with Mr. Petersen and asked him where we go from here.
I wanted to share his response, and encourage everyone to join together. Let's keep the momentum going in a positive direction, and help get these laws passed so that ALL children will have protection.
Hi Julie,
I'm proud to say we are the leading advocate for National Legislation (and, if you heard Bob Edwards Show, we're after Pennsylvania, too, for failing to apply their own laws!). You should also know that we're after Octo-Mom and my personal lawsuit will be heard in Superior Court on June 22nd 2009.
Donations for A Minor Consideration...Fed ID: 95-4585623...can be mailed to:
A Minor Consideration
15003 S Denker Avenue
Gardena, CA
90247
We at AMC are well down the road to get National Legislation, but we need all the support we can get...especially from an Army of perfectly normal people who are tired of being lied to and having their televisions filled up with scripted reality shows that want only to exploit children.
Here is my essay from last year warning about the current troubles that bedevil the Gosselin family: http://www.minorcon.org/jon_kate1.html
Have people email me at this address. I will read and respond as I have for the past 19 years.
We really and truly are the ONLY national group with credibility and a proven track record in Legislation that has been hammering on this exploitation of working kids...as only former kid stars can know...and now a large and growing number of innocent children caught in the maw of so-called reality television.
Tell folks to come to our site...donate if they can...and we'll help them marshall themselves into a potent Army.
We are ALL "mad as Hell," and now that the conspiracy has been uncovered it is time to act.
Both theatrical unions (Screen Actors Guild and AFTRA) have voted unanimously at their national Board meetings to pursue national legislation to protect all children, everywhere.
Let's do this now.
Fraternally,
Paul Petersen
http://www.minorcon.org/index.html
Paul Petersen established the organization A Minor Consideration to support child stars and other child laborers through legislation, family education, and personal intervention and counseling for those in crisis. I'm in contact with Mr. Petersen and asked him where we go from here.
I wanted to share his response, and encourage everyone to join together. Let's keep the momentum going in a positive direction, and help get these laws passed so that ALL children will have protection.
Hi Julie,
I'm proud to say we are the leading advocate for National Legislation (and, if you heard Bob Edwards Show, we're after Pennsylvania, too, for failing to apply their own laws!). You should also know that we're after Octo-Mom and my personal lawsuit will be heard in Superior Court on June 22nd 2009.
Donations for A Minor Consideration...Fed ID: 95-4585623...can be mailed to:
A Minor Consideration
15003 S Denker Avenue
Gardena, CA
90247
We at AMC are well down the road to get National Legislation, but we need all the support we can get...especially from an Army of perfectly normal people who are tired of being lied to and having their televisions filled up with scripted reality shows that want only to exploit children.
Here is my essay from last year warning about the current troubles that bedevil the Gosselin family: http://www.minorcon.org/jon_kate1.html
Have people email me at this address. I will read and respond as I have for the past 19 years.
We really and truly are the ONLY national group with credibility and a proven track record in Legislation that has been hammering on this exploitation of working kids...as only former kid stars can know...and now a large and growing number of innocent children caught in the maw of so-called reality television.
Tell folks to come to our site...donate if they can...and we'll help them marshall themselves into a potent Army.
We are ALL "mad as Hell," and now that the conspiracy has been uncovered it is time to act.
Both theatrical unions (Screen Actors Guild and AFTRA) have voted unanimously at their national Board meetings to pursue national legislation to protect all children, everywhere.
Let's do this now.
Fraternally,
Paul Petersen
http://www.minorcon.org/index.html
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The Early Show
Kevin and Jodi will be giving a live interview tomorrow morning on The Early Show (CBS). The segment should be airing around 7:30am EST.
I also want to acknowledge all of the emails I am receiving. I can't respond to all of them, but I want everyone to know that I am reading them and sharing them with Jodi. I have received the most heartfelt stories and poems. I am truly touched that so many have taken the time to write, and I want you all to know that the support we are receiving is definitely a bright spot during this difficult time.
Many people have asked what they can do. My best advice right now is to stop watching! I posted this on another blog over the weekend, but I think it is worth repeating.
I made a personal decision long ago to do what I can to give those children the privacy and respect that they deserve. I refuse to watch and participate in something that I feel so strongly against.
I also want to acknowledge all of the emails I am receiving. I can't respond to all of them, but I want everyone to know that I am reading them and sharing them with Jodi. I have received the most heartfelt stories and poems. I am truly touched that so many have taken the time to write, and I want you all to know that the support we are receiving is definitely a bright spot during this difficult time.
Many people have asked what they can do. My best advice right now is to stop watching! I posted this on another blog over the weekend, but I think it is worth repeating.
I made a personal decision long ago to do what I can to give those children the privacy and respect that they deserve. I refuse to watch and participate in something that I feel so strongly against.
We should not be able to watch the destruction of a real family. It is a little disturbing to me that so many people see this as entertainment. These are real children, not characters on a show. I didn't watch last night, but I did see a brief clip on one the news programs this morning. I am disgusted that they would show such a tender moment between Jon and his daughter just to pull at the viewer's heartstrings. That conversation should have been a private moment between a father and daughter. Each person who watched last night stole something from the children that they'll never get back. They deserve respect, privacy and security. Their own parents have taken that away from them, but we can give it back by letting TLC know that we won't watch it any longer. If Jon and Kate care so little for their family that they refuse to end the show, the viewers can end it for them. If you want to help the children, then stop watching!
Monday, May 25, 2009
Jon and Kate should put FAMILY first
BostonHerald.com:
Both Jon and Kate Gosselin, stars of TLC’s “Jon & Kate Plus 8,” are dodging allegations of infidelity. Family members are turning the screws in tell-all interviews. Kate has told People she can envision a divorce.
TLC did not provide a screener of the one-hour episode airing at 9 p.m. Everyone who works there would have to be criminally stupid not to know that tonight’s episode is likely to draw record ratings for the channel.
In a preview posted at tlc.discovery.com, sitting alone on a loveseat, Jon acknowledges the recent turmoil.
“Kate and I have been obviously going through a lot of stuff and discussing what’s best for our kids,” he says.
Here’s a crazy idea: Cancel the show.
If family truly comes first, lock the camera crew out. If TLC balks at letting them out of their contracts, go public and shame the channel into giving them back their privacy.
“My kids are the reason why I’ve always done everything,” Kate says.
Here’s a chance to prove it.
But reclaiming even a sliver of privacy might jeopardize the perks they’ve grown to depend on - the hair plugs for him, the tummy tuck for her, the trips for all of them. Some viewers have found that sense of entitlement repulsive to watch.
It’s one thing for adults to sign up for a reality show, it’s another thing to subject their young children to that kind of scrutiny. These kids are essentially the cutest indentured servants of a growing financial empire in Pennsylvania. Where do they go if they don’t want to be filmed? It’s hard to step out on your family when you are 5.
To read the entire article, click HERE.
Both Jon and Kate Gosselin, stars of TLC’s “Jon & Kate Plus 8,” are dodging allegations of infidelity. Family members are turning the screws in tell-all interviews. Kate has told People she can envision a divorce.
TLC did not provide a screener of the one-hour episode airing at 9 p.m. Everyone who works there would have to be criminally stupid not to know that tonight’s episode is likely to draw record ratings for the channel.
In a preview posted at tlc.discovery.com, sitting alone on a loveseat, Jon acknowledges the recent turmoil.
“Kate and I have been obviously going through a lot of stuff and discussing what’s best for our kids,” he says.
Here’s a crazy idea: Cancel the show.
If family truly comes first, lock the camera crew out. If TLC balks at letting them out of their contracts, go public and shame the channel into giving them back their privacy.
“My kids are the reason why I’ve always done everything,” Kate says.
Here’s a chance to prove it.
But reclaiming even a sliver of privacy might jeopardize the perks they’ve grown to depend on - the hair plugs for him, the tummy tuck for her, the trips for all of them. Some viewers have found that sense of entitlement repulsive to watch.
It’s one thing for adults to sign up for a reality show, it’s another thing to subject their young children to that kind of scrutiny. These kids are essentially the cutest indentured servants of a growing financial empire in Pennsylvania. Where do they go if they don’t want to be filmed? It’s hard to step out on your family when you are 5.
To read the entire article, click HERE.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Child Labor Laws and Reality TV
E Online:
About Jon & Kate Plus 8: I wonder if the kids are protected under child labor laws, or if they should be?
—Miracle Aimee, via Twitter
You'd think that any parents who drag their kids into their reality-TV money grab would face a smackdown from some sort of child-protection law. But no. That would be way too civilized.
No, Jon and Kate Gosselin's plus-eight do not fall under the kinds of kiddie labor laws enjoyed by peers who work on scripted film or TV sets, attorneys tell me. Here's why...
...courtesy of attorney Paul Moretti, who served as an on-set film safety expert before moving into his own labor law practice.
If anyone tried to take this issue to a judge, Moretti says, "chances are, courts would say this doesn't count as labor, because the children are doing things they would be doing whether there was a camera or not.
"Show producers are not taking the kids away from their studies, making them memorize lines, or taking them away from socialization," says Moretti, who also answers legal questions for JustAnswer.com.
"The law would probably say that when the children are sitting at home using a coloring book or going to a soccer game, and they're being filmed, they're not doing someone else's business. They're doing their own business."
Translation: When a TV show has a script, kids can only work a set number of hours per day, they must have a certain number of breaks per day, and they must have on-set tutors to ensure their studies do not slide.
A reality-show camera can track children from morning to night, parents can rake in wagonloads of cash, and Moretti knows of no laws that can change that on behalf of the child.
One other thing to consider: Attorney Lisa Pierson Weinberger of Greenberg Glusker points out that kids on shows like these might not even be getting any money—thus their time in front of the camera isn't "labor."
As for your second question: Yes, Moretti says, he thinks there should be a change in the law. Or, at the very least, child welfare guidelines should be reconsidered, other experts say.
"The question this really brings to focus is: In this reality-oriented society, are children as adequately protected from adults as they need to be?" muses Regent University law professor Kathleen McKee. "I think they are not. Kudos to your reader for bringing up this issue."
So there you go. And oh: If you're wondering whether I agree with these experts—you bet I do. One hundred percent.
http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/ask_the_answer_bitch/b125497_do_child_labor_laws_apply_jon_kates_kids.html
About Jon & Kate Plus 8: I wonder if the kids are protected under child labor laws, or if they should be?
—Miracle Aimee, via Twitter
You'd think that any parents who drag their kids into their reality-TV money grab would face a smackdown from some sort of child-protection law. But no. That would be way too civilized.
No, Jon and Kate Gosselin's plus-eight do not fall under the kinds of kiddie labor laws enjoyed by peers who work on scripted film or TV sets, attorneys tell me. Here's why...
...courtesy of attorney Paul Moretti, who served as an on-set film safety expert before moving into his own labor law practice.
If anyone tried to take this issue to a judge, Moretti says, "chances are, courts would say this doesn't count as labor, because the children are doing things they would be doing whether there was a camera or not.
"Show producers are not taking the kids away from their studies, making them memorize lines, or taking them away from socialization," says Moretti, who also answers legal questions for JustAnswer.com.
"The law would probably say that when the children are sitting at home using a coloring book or going to a soccer game, and they're being filmed, they're not doing someone else's business. They're doing their own business."
Translation: When a TV show has a script, kids can only work a set number of hours per day, they must have a certain number of breaks per day, and they must have on-set tutors to ensure their studies do not slide.
A reality-show camera can track children from morning to night, parents can rake in wagonloads of cash, and Moretti knows of no laws that can change that on behalf of the child.
One other thing to consider: Attorney Lisa Pierson Weinberger of Greenberg Glusker points out that kids on shows like these might not even be getting any money—thus their time in front of the camera isn't "labor."
As for your second question: Yes, Moretti says, he thinks there should be a change in the law. Or, at the very least, child welfare guidelines should be reconsidered, other experts say.
"The question this really brings to focus is: In this reality-oriented society, are children as adequately protected from adults as they need to be?" muses Regent University law professor Kathleen McKee. "I think they are not. Kudos to your reader for bringing up this issue."
So there you go. And oh: If you're wondering whether I agree with these experts—you bet I do. One hundred percent.
http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/ask_the_answer_bitch/b125497_do_child_labor_laws_apply_jon_kates_kids.html
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Friday, May 15, 2009
Update
I am overwhelmed and so grateful for the outpouring of support. Thank you for taking the time to write. I'm making sure that Jodi knows there are so many people out there who are supporting them.
This is not a pleasant situation. Actually, I believe that this would be every family's worst nightmare! I know everyone has an opinion and feels that they have a right to voice it. Please be sensitive to the people who are actually living this. Jon and Kate's decisions are affecting many people who didn't ask for this--first and foremost--their own children.
I am asking everyone to please be patient. Most of you have no idea how this industry works. I know there are many questions, but the truth is, some people will never be satisfied with the information they are given. EVERYTHING does not need to be made public.
Yes, I know there is so much out there already, but don't assume that everything will be/has been made known. Everyone is just going to have to accept the fact that YOU don't know what's best because you don't have ALL of the information, and you probably never will.
The easy thing to do would be to remain silent. No one wants to open themselves up to public scrutiny, but family means everything to Kevin and Jodi. They are not going to take the easy way out, and turn their backs during a time when their family needs them more than ever.
This is not a pleasant situation. Actually, I believe that this would be every family's worst nightmare! I know everyone has an opinion and feels that they have a right to voice it. Please be sensitive to the people who are actually living this. Jon and Kate's decisions are affecting many people who didn't ask for this--first and foremost--their own children.
I am asking everyone to please be patient. Most of you have no idea how this industry works. I know there are many questions, but the truth is, some people will never be satisfied with the information they are given. EVERYTHING does not need to be made public.
Yes, I know there is so much out there already, but don't assume that everything will be/has been made known. Everyone is just going to have to accept the fact that YOU don't know what's best because you don't have ALL of the information, and you probably never will.
The easy thing to do would be to remain silent. No one wants to open themselves up to public scrutiny, but family means everything to Kevin and Jodi. They are not going to take the easy way out, and turn their backs during a time when their family needs them more than ever.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
People Magazine
There is so much that I want to say about this article, but I think Kate did a pretty good job confirming the reasons that Kevin and Jodi had to speak up. She never ceases to amaze me! Just when I think that Kate has stooped to the lowest level possible, she outdoes herself. Has she completely lost touch with reality?
So much for "handling it privately", as she stated late last week. I am disgusted that she is continuing to spread her lies, and discussing very private matters to the media. She completely throws her husband under the bus in order to pursue her own agenda. It is becoming more obvious that she will stop at nothing to get what she wants. She is setting herself up for sympathy and letting everyone know that the show must go on.
A quote from Kate in the article: "Somewhere along the line, he [Jon] changed his focus. I don't know why, because my focus never changed."
It's true that Kate's focus hasn't changed. Doing the show was never about "just making ends meet" or "just paying for college". Kate did her research and set her plan into motion before the sextuplets were even born. She is using the show--although it's far from reality--as a means to other opportunities--her new "career". Kate will never be satisfied. It will never be enough for her. They have reportedly made millions so far and she will keep going without any thought of what this is doing to her family.
It's very interesting that everyone is outraged with Nadya Suleman. Who do you think her role model is? Kate is no different. It's time to turn the focus on ALL children who are being exploited by their parents.
So much for "handling it privately", as she stated late last week. I am disgusted that she is continuing to spread her lies, and discussing very private matters to the media. She completely throws her husband under the bus in order to pursue her own agenda. It is becoming more obvious that she will stop at nothing to get what she wants. She is setting herself up for sympathy and letting everyone know that the show must go on.
A quote from Kate in the article: "Somewhere along the line, he [Jon] changed his focus. I don't know why, because my focus never changed."
It's true that Kate's focus hasn't changed. Doing the show was never about "just making ends meet" or "just paying for college". Kate did her research and set her plan into motion before the sextuplets were even born. She is using the show--although it's far from reality--as a means to other opportunities--her new "career". Kate will never be satisfied. It will never be enough for her. They have reportedly made millions so far and she will keep going without any thought of what this is doing to her family.
It's very interesting that everyone is outraged with Nadya Suleman. Who do you think her role model is? Kate is no different. It's time to turn the focus on ALL children who are being exploited by their parents.
Interview with Kevin and Jodi
A quote from Kate, May 13, 2009:
"This is certainly not what I envisioned I was signing up for," Kate Gosselin said Wednesday during an appearance at the Frauenthal Center, The Muskegon Chronicle reported.
"When I see magazines in stores it's really difficult. It amazes me there is an industry that follows you around and writes stories about you.
"It destroys peoples' lives. I need you to know, don't believe what you read unless you hear it from that person."
Sorry, Kate, but the tabloids have not destroyed your life. You have been living a charade for a very long time, and they are just calling you out on your lies.
I guess you weren't told who the source was when you were informed about the newest stories being released. So let's all follow Kate's advice and listen to what Kevin and Jodi have to say.
Part 1 Click HERE
Part2 Click HERE
Part 3 Click HERE
"This is certainly not what I envisioned I was signing up for," Kate Gosselin said Wednesday during an appearance at the Frauenthal Center, The Muskegon Chronicle reported.
"When I see magazines in stores it's really difficult. It amazes me there is an industry that follows you around and writes stories about you.
"It destroys peoples' lives. I need you to know, don't believe what you read unless you hear it from that person."
Sorry, Kate, but the tabloids have not destroyed your life. You have been living a charade for a very long time, and they are just calling you out on your lies.
I guess you weren't told who the source was when you were informed about the newest stories being released. So let's all follow Kate's advice and listen to what Kevin and Jodi have to say.
Part 1 Click HERE
Part2 Click HERE
Part 3 Click HERE
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
For the Children
I just wanted to thank all of those who have already voiced their support for Kevin and Jodi. They would not have spoken out unless they felt that it was absolutely necessary in order so save the Gosselin children from a horrific situation. I'm sickened to hear that Figure 8 is continuing to film and TLC and everyone else involved will profit off of the destruction of a family. Kate will stop at nothing to get what she wants. She has a team of people protecting her and helping her spin her lies to keep this nightmare going. She is focused on her new "career" and she won't let anyone stand in her way, including her husband and children.
I'm hoping that the upcoming stories will help connect the dots and shed some light on why I came forward last year to voice my concerns for the situation. Although the revelations are sad, and in some ways unbelievable, the children are living a life that is much worse than will be printed in any publication.
I am hopeful that this is just the beginning and that more people realize that this child exploitation has to stop!
I'm hoping that the upcoming stories will help connect the dots and shed some light on why I came forward last year to voice my concerns for the situation. Although the revelations are sad, and in some ways unbelievable, the children are living a life that is much worse than will be printed in any publication.
I am hopeful that this is just the beginning and that more people realize that this child exploitation has to stop!
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