Another dose of reality TV

Another day, another reality show. But I have to say that I like "American Idol" a whole lot more than "The Bachelor." These star-hopefuls also are competing for a dream, but a dream achieved through developing talent, not by being obsessive or obscene in pursuit of a man.

It is quite amusing, and sometimes rather painful, to watch people try to get on "Idol." I am not an amazing singer, but I can carry a tune; and I think it's fascinating to hear people's opinions of themselves as vocalists in comparison to their actual talent. I myself have a small desire to be on Broadway, but I don't think I could ever survive Simon Cowell's scathing comments.

I watched "Idol" last night because it was the Kansas City auditions, in hopes that Derik Lavers, formerly of Marshall, would be shown. He was not, though some readers have commented that he now lives in New York. So, I guess I will tune in to those auditions, too. Thanks to everyone who let us know about this scoop, and I promise to write a good story as soon as I get in touch with him.

Interestingly, I did see someone I sort of know on the auditions last night. Andrew Lang, an MU student who is a friend of a friend, auditioned and, I'm sorry to say, didn't really impress me. Nor did he impress the judges, I might add.

But somehow it still felt a little bit cool to watch something on national television and have a real connection with it. Just like seeing Andy Williams sing at the Macy's parade and knowing that I trick-or-treated at his house. Or watching David Koechner in movies (Anchorman, Get Smart) and knowing that my dad knows him.

Celebrity is an interesting phenomenon, and though I'm sorry to see the media go crazy over Paris' jail time or Britney's shaved head, I can't say I'm completely immune to getting caught up in the craze of the day.