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| Kevin Cobb is a junior journalism major and writes 'Cobb, Party of One' for the Daily News. His views do not necessarily agree with those of the newspaper. |
As some college students flocked south for spring break, I found myself on the comfort of my parent's couch. This year I definitely put the R&R into spring break.
Since my dad recently got a satellite dish, I did a little surfing of my own last week, minus the saltwater. The following are the shows I watched and what I learned from each show. Spring break is usually thought of as "a week off, not a week on," but in retrospect, I feel as though I've gained plenty on my never-ending quest for knowledge.-á
"Surprise by Design": The show's two hosts are like tour guides through today's latest in the home d?cor world, as they assist homeowners with surprise room makeovers for their loved ones.
While completing the makeovers, Robert Verdi has shown that when working with power tools, it's perfectly OK to swap safety goggles for a pair of Prada or Gucci sunglasses.
Lessons learned: Bright yellow is the new eggshell white, and one can never say the word "fabulous" too much.
"The Michael Essany Show": The 20-year-old Valparaiso University freshman has been hosting his own public access show from his parents living room since the age of 14. Currently, the E! Channel is following Essany as he attempts to be crowned the king of late night.
Michael's drive for a great show is apparent when during his second episode he went go-carting with his guests, Tom Green and the mayor of Valparaiso. Future guests include former President Jimmy Carter and Jared from Subway.
Lesson learned: When most college students say, "I wish I could do that someday," Michael is actually doing it.
"Family Business": The words 'family business' bring the thoughts of family-owned gas stations, friendly hometown grocery stores and other wholesome togetherness to mind.
But, the channel is Showtime and the show "Family Business" follows the life of Seymore Butts, one of the West Coast's largest pornography distributors.
While Seymore directs, films, produces and sometimes stars in the movies, his mother and cousin are behind the scenes organizing finances for the business.
Lesson learned: A family that works together stays together.
"So Graham Norton": Take David Letterman, mix it with the brashness of Howard Stern and add a twist of old-world charm, and presto -- you've got Graham Norton, quite possibly the best export from the UK since the Beatles.
From the week's worth of episodes I watched, Graham isn't afraid to embarrass the audience with personal questions peeking into their sex life or other areas.
Try to get buddy-buddy with Tom Ridge, have him set up your personal laugh-o-meter, and be prepared to stay in the red section. Graham is that funny.-á
Lesson learned: People in the UK are OK.
In all of the shows, one common theme that runs throughout is the important connection of family.
Whether that family relationship is between a host and audience, two hosts or a son and his parents, if you look closely at television programs, they do support positive relationships. Positive, healthy relationships, not matter how unconventional, are welcoming in such an unsure world.
Write to Kevin at twobsuguys@yahoo.com
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