IS IT TIME TO RETIRE THE PROTOCULTURE TIMES?....

.....I'd rather do that then turn it into something it's NOT....I have never had anything to prove except that I can fun...and I have...just don't know how much I can stomach the ugly side of things and KEEP SILENT...I'll keep you all posted....

 -JT

MEGARESULTS SHOW FOR THE WEEK END OF MARCH 27, 2010

Why hello there!

First, thank you to all who have chimed in for Episode 20! Believe me it was an AWESOME time doing all those interviews and I'm glad I was able to share them with all of you.

And now we have our MEGARESULTS SHOW!

Download this episode (right click and save)

Well we have another results show for last week's poll questions and a new batch already waiting for you on the right hand side of the page!

Now with these polls....think well on your answers as the questions really go into the "What if?" regions....but of course..have fun voting!

And on this same show we go over the Quarter Final results and the Semi-Finals of the Big Event in this Robotech Anniversary month, the....

SDF-25 MECHA- TOURNAMENT! !!!

CLICK HERE FOR THE SEMIFINAL MATCHUPS TO VOTE ON!

We now have the Final Four of the tourney and it lies in your hands to decide WHO will make to the Finals and then crowned CHAMPION!!!!!!!!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!

(and what an Anniversary Month it has been!)

 We'll see you Thursday for another AnniversaryCast...

REVIVE FOR 25!

-JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

POLL QUESTIONS AND SDF25 MECHA TOURNAMENT SEMIFINALS ARE UP!

Poll questions on the right!

Semi Finals of the tourney by clicking HERE!

I'll do a MEGARESULTS show later on today!

NOW, I'm going to bed!!!!!

Robotech...it's a tough racket!

-JT

EPISODE #20 - THE MILESTONE! PARTS 1 & 2

Hi all!

Not much else to say....


Episode 20 is now a reality!

SO BIG....I had to do it in TWO PARTS...OVER 3 HOURS OF INTERVIEWS!

PART 1 - Download this episode (right click and save)

PART 2 - Download this episode (right click and save)


And don't forget tomorrow, MEGARESULTS SHOW for our poll questions and the SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!

I also wanted to share with you something that Vivian Lanza sent me from a recent get together in Los Angeles with some of the original voice actors from Robotech. She and a few others wanted to let me know that I was there "in spirit". One of the sweetest things that anyone has ever done for me. 

Vivian and friend (I don't know her name =[ ), Jason, and Cheryl....THANK YOU!



Wow.....



And so it continues.....IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!!

Enjoy all!....I sure did!

REVIVE FOR 25!

-JT
protoculturetimes@gmail.com

PREVIEW OF EPISODE #20....AWESOME!

Get used to the word AWESOME from this point on because I say it A LOT in this episode....and with every reason!

We got a little bit over a day left for our poll questions and the Quarter Finals of the...

SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!!!!!!!!!!!

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR LAST MINUTE VOTES IN!!!!!

Now to the other BIG EVENT for this weekend.

I'm working on the final recordings and editing and coming this Saturday, March 27th, 2010.....

MY 20TH EPISODE.....

Something I never thought would arrive.....

AND something that in very large part is because of all of you that in one or another have supported this show! You have my gratitude always!

Robotech's 25th and The Protoculture Times 20th.....Oh my God!

IT'S DOUBLE ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tons of SHOUTOUTS to be handed out on...you are forewarned 

And for this special occasion, we're gonna do things a little bit different by putting aside our regular segments because we have a show filled with AWESOME guests from the WORLDWIDE community of this thing we call Robotech!


Here is your OFFICIAL Episode 20  interview lineup.....

From Chile, an international  fan fic author I've been wanting to interview for awhile. She is talented and a passionate Robotech fan! (and does a great cosplay of Lisa Hayes!) I'm so happy to finally have her through an E-interview (email);

CARLA "FOX" AGUILAR ARIAS

http://www.fanfics.cl/

It wouldn't be a 20th Episode celebration without this guy. A replay of my interview in December with singer, songwriter, and of course the singing voice of  Lancer/Yellow Dancer from Robotech's New Generation...

MICHAEL BRADLEY

 http://www.michaelbradleymusic.com/

An exclusive E-Interview with the Mr. UEG Productions himself, talking some GENESIS and his brand new project...ARTEMIS.  A class guy through and through it is my honor to have  for this 20th Episode....

NENAD PETROVIC

http://www.united-earth-group.com/

We're not done yet guys....

And I want to personally thank Nenad for dropping the pebble into the pond causing the ripple effect which resulted in my next guest...

Actor of stage, television, movies, and a 25 year track record of VOICE ACTING. But above all else....the man who brought to life, through his voice the Robotech characters of Captain Gloval and Commander Leonard, (AWESOME!);

GREG FINLEY

http://www.gregfinley.com/

http://www.canyontheatre.org/

And to cap it all off .... two great friends of myself and the show....a true "Robotech love story"(and they'll talk about it!).....organizers of many fan events....along with their children Max and Miriya.."The First Family" of Robotech;

VIVIAN AND JOE LANZA

They will also be talking about the big event commemorating the 25th anniversary of Robotech......

http://www.rt25celebration.com/

 AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On a personal note....this is a really big moment for me....that I would be doing all of this and for 20 episodes, this has gone beyond fulfilling a dream....it's turned into something that I will cherish for the REST OF MY LIFE!

As JT....as John....I thank you all....and the episode should be up by tomorrow evening!

REVIVE FOR 25!

- John

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

ANNIVERSARYCAST #8 - ZOR, BLAME IT ON HIM!

Hey all!

Big week for the Protoculture Times, on the road to Episode #20 this Saturday!

But first......Anniversarycast  #8!

Download this episode (right click and save)

So WHY does everything happen in Robotech? Well only one guy can take "responsibility" for that......ZOR!

I'm sure he wants to take back that trip he took to Optera huh? I consider Zor the most tragic figure in the Robotech story as his discovery of Protoculture sets off a chain of events that equates to one incredible ass whoopin' for the home base....EARTH.

His story and how we get to Episode 1 of the Original 85 are chronicled quite well in the novels and the comice series Genesis: The Legend of Zor and the graphic novel Genesis.

We see his reincarnation in Zor Prime in the Masters Saga, And with what he does in the finale...even his clone can't get it right! But Zor's legacy continues with a second clone , Rem, in the Sentinels and he deals with things a whole lot better!

Then you have End of the Circle.....where all things resolve themselves.....and you're left saying.....WHAT THE.....? I want to do a full review of the novel so in between everything else going on, I'm currently reading it AND taking notes....maybe in this re exploration, I can maybe finally make sense of some of the things that happen...ESPECIALLY with Rem....and Minmei.

Stay tuned for that....

And as a little teaser to Episode #20....it's full of special guests....here's a couple!....

From Chile, a fan fic author I've been wanting to interview for awhile. She is talented and a passionate Robotech fan! I'm so happy to finally have her through an E-interview (email).

CARLA "FOX" AGUILAR ARIAS

 http://www.fanfics.cl/

And for this milestone, I will replay the interview I did back in December with singer, songwriter, and of course the singing voice of  Lancer/Yellow Dancer from Robotech's New Generation...

MICHAEL BRADLEY

http://www.michaelbradleymusic.com/

And there is MORE to come!....Check back here on Friday for the full list of guests! It will be one to remember!

And don't forget! We still have poll questions and the Quarter Finals of the SDF-25 Mecha Tournament!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!!!

REVIVE FOR 25!

-JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

RANDOM THOUGHTS - 03/22/10- ROBOTECH AND THE STAR WARS CONNECTION?

Hey all!

After another big weekend of polls and tournament, I can sit back in the ol' chair for another round of my musings.....

I never thought that the SDF-25 Mecha Tournament would have had such success....I'm even happier that people are having fun with it! My thanks to you all for your participation!

Nervous about Episode 20....things are taking shape.......but I don't want to say OMG it's a done deal...when things work out....I will let you know....but I AM nervous!

Now apart from Robotech, I like me some Star Wars too! I want to thank TheForce.net for this little nugget. When I read it, I was like.....hmmmm.....better get in "preventative" mode....

You'll see why as you read along....and remember....it's just one fan's opinion.

In an interview with David Filoni, supervising director of Star Wars: The Clone Wars TV series (which is an awesome show!) he said the following;

"I got interested in animation because my parents liked Opera, and there seemed to be a natural connection for me between moving images and music. I also grew up watching a series called Robotech, in a lot of ways it was like an animated Star Wars series, so I saw an opportunity to apply my love of drawing to film making."

Now the reason I put this quote up is that the "zealots" (Yeah, the Memos and the Mavericks) in the world of Robotech may try to "play this up" with ridculous claims and speculations such as the following;

Star Wars: The Clone Wars was influenced by Robotech...

Uhhh....no.....David grew up watching the show and saw Robotech like an animated Star Wars series. It can be said that perhaps Robotech influenced David in getting into animation, but he was also inspired by Opera. David doesn't mention anywhere else in the interview about Robotech so any further speculation is just twisted speculation.

And if The Clone Wars had been influenced by Robotech.....Wouldn't that be plastered all over Robotech.com.?

Whoops!....sorry for that lapse......... I was thinking common sense!

What's next?  Robotech had a direct influence in the moon landing?

Of course, this could lead into something like this.....

David Filoni is interested in working with Robotech.....

Once again, twisted speculation. That he could be a fan of the show, that can certainly be a strong possibility, but once again, NO further mention of Robotech in the interview.

What next? George Lucas is "quaking in his boots" that David will leave The Clone Wars?

And speaking of whom.....here's another one that the "marks" might try to feed the fans....

George Lucas is interested in working with Robotech....

Yes, sadly, they would take it THAT far. "Oh that George had such success with Star Wars, he could triple that with Robotech. Oh, George could even be the director of the Live Action Movie!"

You see where I'm goin' with this?

Let me say this first: Star Wars is an excellently run, fan friendly, fan project supporting franchise. George Lucas actually encourage fans to apply their creativity to the Star Wars Universe

Who do you have running Robotech?....

Harmony Gold....

Need I say more? And as much as I love Robotech, I know that it will never achieve the status of Star Wars.

And besides, George has other projects he is working on....

And finally, what could be said based off just a few words by the "sheepherders" to the flock...

"Since Star Wars: The Clone Wars has Warner Brothers Television as one of the Production Companies working on it and Warner Brothers Television is in the same family as Warner Brothers Cinema division and they are both part of the Warner Brothers family that purchased the movie rights from Harmony Gold who owns the franchise thant without a shadow of a doubt, due to Star Wars: The Clone Wars, the Robotech Live Action Movie is all but GUARANTEED!"

What the hell is this, SIX DEGREES OF ROBOTECH LIVE ACION MOVIE?????

Yeppers.....it could even sink to that level.......

I can understand fans frustrated over no movement in the franchise, but to make claims such as for example  the classic Paramount Pictures  is "quaking in their boots", while opinion that may be, my counter opinion is that possible statements like this and  the ones above are the zealots saying "Hey, you fans will buy anything we say, so let's see how outrageous we can go!"

Then of course you'll have Kevin Mckeever prancing around you going..."Nyah nyah nyah nyah nyah!" (In all honesty, I think he would encourage people to make these types of claims!)

And is he desperate for the Robotech fans' validation!.

How desperate is he?

THIS should say it all......CLICK HERE.

Well...maybe I shouldn't be so harsh...it does make for great material for blog posts....hee hee!

But at the end of the day, it will be you the fans that will decide how to look at Robotech and I will ALWAYS encourage that, even if we disagree on this or other subjects.

Just be careful out there....the sharks are just looking for victims...

Despite it all....I'm one happy camper.....

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!!

Seeya!

REVIVE FOR 25!!!

JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

MEGARESULTS SHOW - WEEK END MARCH 20, 2010

Hey all!

Refreshed after a few hours of sleep to bring you another set of MEGARESULTS!!!!

In Part #1...

Download this episode (right click and save)

We take a look at the results of the poll questions that were.......and go over the the NEW poll questions that are! It was great to see how the votes went around for the last batch of polls, with this batch it shouldn't be different!

Poll questions are at the right of the page and run through next Saturday, March 27th 11:59 PM.

And in Part #2...

Download this episode (right click and save)

Round #2 is in the history books and we have the results along with the Quarter Finals of the

SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!!!!!

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE MATCHUPS AND TO VOTE!!!

Will the Alpha prevail over the Veritech?

Will the Bioroid keep the Southern Cross in it?

Could it come down to a Destroid ONLY finale?

Is it Skull One's destiny?

Well the answers to those questions.....is up to you my friends!

If you're reading this.....that means you can VOTE NOW!

And don't forget the NEW schedule for the remaining rounds;

QUARTER FINALS: MARCH 21 - MARCH 27 11:59 PM
SEMIFINALS : MARCH 26 - APRIL 3 11:59 PM
FINALS: APRIL 4- APRIL 10 11:59 PM

Spread the word!.........VOTE VOTE VOTE!......Because only one can be CHAMPION!

Next AnniversaryCast will be this Wednesday and next Saturday.......................EPISODE 20!!!!!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!

REVIVE FOR 25!

-JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

NEW POLL QUESTIONS UP!

Hi!

I'll do a results show later on today! Right now, I'm going to bed!

-JT

ANNIVERSARYCAST #7 - ROBOTECH'S DYNAMIC DUO!

Hello friends!

Another week in the books and to top it all off.....AnniversaryCast Time!

Download this episode (right click and save)

First and foremost.....

IT'S HAPPY BIRTHDAY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!!

Big birthday wishes to a good friend of the show, Joe Lanza-Orellana!!! Hope the day has been filled with nothing but GREAT things with friends and family around you! SALUD!

For this A-Cast we move on to another pair of characters. Star Wars has Han and Chewie...Trek has Kirk and Spock....ok McCoy too!...characters that through their DIFFERENCES, gel very well and in Robotech you have a special chemistry between today's subjects...BREETAI AND EXEDORE!

You have Exedore, the intellect to Breetai's warrior. He seems to settle into the "right hand man" position very well throughout the different Robotech stories. There's no question that his bond with Breetai is one of a solid friendship, right till the very end. 

Now, all mushiness aside...I see Exedore as a very "matter of factly" character...saying the logical things that always are not the most popular (especially to Rick Hunter!).

And with his portrayal in the Expanded Universe of the novels he's.....well....SNEAKY.

With this re exploration...there is a rule of thumb to the Zentraedi....DTA...Don't Trust Anybody!...Everybody is out to stab the other in the back....and Exedore can be one pretty calculation instigator!

But that element makes someone like Exedore appealing. I also like that he becomes the trusted adviser to other key figures  in the Robotech Universe.

And then we have who for me is the BADASS of Robotech.....Breetai Tul! 

He doesn't see a lot of "physical action" in the Macross Saga but when he does.....No Veritech is SAFE! 

He's careful in his campaign to recapture the SDF-1. He sees first hand what prolonged exposure to the Micronians does to his fleet and in the end Dolza, his commander sees him as just another infected troop and he joins forces with the RDF for the battle against the Grand Fleet!

Beyond the Original 85, Breetai becomes "BUCKETHEAD" Breetai.....and don't let the appliance fool you.....

See what I mean?......TOTALLY BADASS!

Now Breetai does see more action in the Sentinels campaign and plays a major role in the schisms that develop along the way. He also experiences that mystery that has boggled even the most learned of scientists.......LOVE.

Sadly though, Breetai does meet his demise towards the end. A decision that has never set well with me...but it did make for an IMPACT moment for the Sentinels story! Yet EVEN in death there is a resolution in a roundabout sort of way for "Lord" Breetai in End of the Circle.

Just something about that novel....just seems to want to "end things"....

Two very interesting characters with their own qualities which only add to their "on air chemistry".

And remember, this is just one fan's opinion....your thoughts on them AND any characters in Robotech are always welcome!

And we have a little more than 24 hours for voting on the poll questions on the right and the......

SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!!!!!!!!!

CLICK HERE FOR CURRENT STANDINGS AND YOUR CHANCE TO VOTE!!!!!

Now I don't know about an A-Cast tomorrow but definitely a MEGA RESULTS on Sunday for NEW poll questions and the Quarter Final matchups for the tourney!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!

Seeya this weekend!

REVIVE FOR 25!

JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

RANDOM THOUGHTS 03/18/10

What's up all?


Enjoying Anniversary Number 25 and thought I'd share a few ramblings......


The AnniversaryCasts were a great idea and I plan to contine them beyond the month of March....I mean even though the Anniversary month comes to an end...2010 is STILL Anniversary Time ..............Baby!


Thanks to Jennifer in Florida about the re scheduling of the Tournament rounds....as it was before I would not have been able to update it on a weeknite!


I'm really have fun with this going at FULL STEAM. Just something about this podcasting that when you do it, you just gotta have fun with it! Oh, it's not a perfect process, but it IS enjoyable!

Got a few "guests" lined up for Episode 20!.....Pretty nifty!


The hardest part about doing a regular episode is updating my blog and uploading the file/files to my podcast server. I'll say that's even tougher than recording the episode itself!


Retakes of segments?......TONS!, LMAO!


Oh before I continue....HI HARMONY GOLD!.....Kevin is that you paying me "visits" here?....You really should be promoting Robotech....I mean that IS your job, right? Playing "nyah nyah nyah nyah nyah" on the forums, wasting your time here.....maybe you have it better than Steve Yun?

You must really think you are INTIMIDATING don't ya?...You must be a riot at office parties, LMAO!!!!!!

But I'm giving you TOO much credit Kev.....so I'll move on.

Hmmm....the mic is still up on its stand....not putting it down quite just yet.....(SHRUGS)

The best type of "confrontation" is laughing your ass off at the Internet Tough People....

I hope that people have had fun with the SDF-25 Mecha Tournament. The MAIN thing is to have fun with it. Just my own way of saying HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

And we still got A LOT of tournament to go! WOOHOO! Remember, it's with your votes that THE CHAMP is decided!

And it just may not be the LAST tournmanet we have.....

RT25: The Celebration........hmmmmm.......I'll need to check that out!

JT in California?

Something like that would truly make me let loose an.......IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!

Seeya on Friday peoples!

REVIVE FOR 25!

-JT
protoculturtimes@gmail.com

ANNIVERSARYCAST #6 SCOTT BERNARD. OLD STONE FACE BUT ONE LOYAL SOLDIER!

Hey all!

So great to be back in celebrating the BIG 25 with AnniversaryCast #6!!!

Download this episode (right click and save)

Speaking of CELEBRATONS, I wanna give a BIG BIRTHDAY SHOUTOUT to David Peña, web administrator of RobotechX.com. Hope you are havin' a rockin' time toasting another year. May you have many more and that they be blessed. You have my gratitude always for giving exposure to the 'Times!

IT'S HAPPY BIRTHDAY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!

On this edition we complete my coverage of the main characters from each generation of Robotech and we now have the starring character from the New Generation...OLD STONE FACE....SCOTT BERNARD!

Now here's, as you may know, a character that I have NEVER warmed up to. I think he's got a warped sense of righteousness where if he can't persuade, his inclination is to force. Basically...A BRAT!

Now, that aside, I won't question that Scott is the definition of a ROBOTECH SOLDIER. His determination to complete the mission to Reflex Point and loyalty to one Admiral Hunter are amazing. I may not like him all the time but he IS a leader to his freedom fighters no doubt about it.

We also touch upon his appearances in Robotech's Expanded Universe. The Sentinels and the Emil Lang connection. End of the Circle and the comic Invid War Aftermath (dictator??)...and.....ahem........Shadow Chronicles...(don't expect any spoilers...check it out if you dare! LOL!)

A brat....but he rides one mean Cyclone!

The one thing about Scott, Rick and Dana is that they are thrust in each of their respective stories into a situation that comes to them from left field and while overwhelming at first, they adapt and make their mark and are well deserving to be in the top spot in each generation!

We have a few more days for the latest poll questions on the right side of the page...very interesting how the votes have been spread out...we'll see who comes out on top for their respective poll question! 

And the BIG EVENT of this Anniversary Month.............

       SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!!!!!

CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCHUPS AND TO VOTE!!!!!!!!!!

Sixteen Mecha vying for position to the Quarter Finals.....

Oh and about THAT.....

NEWS FLASH CHANGE OF PLANS!!!!!!!!!

Thank you to Jennifer from Florida for pointing this out. Due to obvious scheduling conflicts for your host in updating the brackets on a week night. I am extending voting time on the Quarter, Semi, and Grand Final each lasting for a week respectively.....

So this is how it will look like (and I have updated the Tournament blog too);

QUARTER FINALS: MARCH 21 - MARCH 27 11:59 PM
SEMIFINALS : MARCH 26 - APRIL 3 11:59 PM
FINALS: APRIL 4- APRIL 10 11:59 PM

People have their favorites for the finals....only way to get them there is to VOTE....but have fun with it!!!!!

Seeya this Friday for the next AnniversaryCast!!!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!

REVIVE FOR 25!

-JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

MEGA RESULTS SHOW PT. 1 and PT. 2!!

Ok all, not gonna make this long...we have our MEGA RESULTS SHOW! In TWO parts!

Part 1 - We go over this past week's poll questions (and some interesting results they were!) and we roll out a new batch for fans to vote on! (Look to the RIGHT...they're already there, WOOHOO!)

Download this episode (right click and save)

Part 2 - Round 1 of the SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT is in the history books! And we talk about who made it and who was sent packing!

Download this episode (right click and save)

NOW, we start separating the MECHA from the ROBOTS....

ROUND 2 IS NOW OPEN FOR VOTING!!!! (Well, as of early this morning!)

CLICK HERE TO BE A PART OF THE ACTION!!!

WHO will make it to the Quarter-Finals? That's the beauty of it, the FANS are in control of what happens here!

April 3rd, 2010, we crown....THE CHAMPION!

I want to thank everybody for their participation in the polls and tournament. I never thought it would take off like this and I'm am so glad people are having FUN with this because THAT is the name of the game!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Seeya for the next AnnivesaryCast this Wednesday!

REVIVE FOR 25!!

JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

NEW POLL QUESTIONS...

...are at the right of the page....I will record a results show for the prior questions later on today.

RIGHT NOW....I'm going to bed! LMAO!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!

-JT

EPISODE #19 - S-OME D-AMN F-INE S-HIPS

Hello one and all!

In the midst of so many AnniversaryCasts, we've got a brand new episode of The Protoculture Times!

Download this episode (right click and save)

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!

THE SHOUTOUTS!

I can tell ya that the Robotech fandom is a worldwide things from California to New York...from the United Kingdom to Japan and all points in between!

Joe Lanza - Skull One's #1 FAN!

Daniel Alvarez - Great talking to you!

Gabe - My little brother who I look up to!

Brian3D - A talented artist and passionate fan....your thoughts I will cover on an upcoming show!

Whitehall - As always great insights!

Aiwa and the SDFCREW - Gracias or la bienvenida a sus foros!

Jason and Cheryl - Thank you for the continuing support!

*Let me say something about the SHOUTOUTS. I know there are people that take issue with it...all I will say is that  my philosophy is waking up with an attitude of gratitude every day and to show it....because it inspires others to do the same!

I am shooting for Episode 20 to be something special in a special month like this! I NEVER thought I would've made it this far!

I go "RandomCast for a few minutes...(remember I retain 20% option, LOL!)

ROBOTECH FILES - I discuss S-OME D-AMN F-INE S-HIPS....the SDFs of the Robotech world (NO SHADOW CHRONICLES). My calling is not about the technical specifications, I just think they are pretty BIG damn ships but I'm not interested in their shoe sizes.

SDF-1 INFO

MORE SDF-1 INFO

SDF-2

SDF-3

SDF-2, SDF3 & SDF-4 (has Shadow Chronicle continuity..oh well!)

And I talk about the brief appearance of an SDF-5 in the comic book story "Prototype 001-Variants".

And to those who are all about technical specs that should be mentioned.... you are more than welcome to chime in!

OFF THE SCIFI SHELF - We take it back to 1987 where another animated series went the route of a live action movie....MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE. Not successful...but as hoakey as it was, I enjoyed the heck outta that movie!

Wikipedia article

Check out the trailer here!

ROBOTECH GLOSSARY - A new segment! I check out some Robotech related terms and try to make sense of them. HEY, HOW COME NO ONE TOLD ME THAT PROTOCULTURE COMES FROM A FLOWER????

And I was just kidding on that last question....I'm sure there are some that would take that and run with it....LOL!

ROBOTECH WEB GEMS - We talk about THE ROBOTECH PAGE............hold your horses, it AIN'T Robotech.com...you should know better by now!....It's a fan created website...one of the best I have ever seen and I totally GEEK OUT when talking about it!

Check it out here!

Not all the links work (DAMN YOU GEOCITIES!), but what's there is still enjoyable. Kudos to the people  who worked on it, if you are listening!

IN THE ROBOTECH SPOTLIGHT - Game on! We put the light on those forgotten by many but loved by a few, ROBOTECH VIDEO GAMES!

Robotech: Crystal Dreams

Robotech: Battlecry

Robotech: The Macross Saga

Robotech: Invasion

Robotech: The New Generation

It's AWESOME to do a full episode again! Something about the opening sequence that just fills me with an energy....IT'S LIKE ROCK N' ROLL ON A SATURDAY NIGHT IN A CONVERTIBLE WITH THE WIND BLOWING IN YOUR FACE, WOOHOO! 

And the celebration doesn't stop there!

We've got coming up tomorrow, March 14th our MEGA RESULTS for our poll questions where we will have a new set for people to chime in on!

And the results of Round 1in the BIG EVENT for this anniversary month...

SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!!!!

CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCHUPS AND TO VOTE!

***NOTE*** -The tournament site will be offline for a bit when the polls close AFTER MIDNITE tonite so I can  set up ROUND 2 where we separate the mecha....from the robots!

WHO'S gonna take it all?.....Well that's up for you to decide!

REVIVE FOR 25!....IT"S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!

And thank you to ALL for their support!

- JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com 

ANNIVERSARYCAST #5 - DANA STERLING....SHE JUST WANTS TO BELONG!

 Hi there!

Poppin' in again, celebrating me some Robotech with AnniversaryCast #5!

Download this episode (right click and save)

In keeping with the theme I started on the last one, on this edition I cover the top role in the Masters Saga, daughter of the greatest ace's in the Robotech story, DANA STERLING! 

Dana goes through her own coming of age story in the Robotech. She is thrust into a precarious position and must adapt to the role. (Wait a minute?...Didn't that happen to Rick too?) 

Through her her different incarnations, it can be said that Dana wants to connect with those around her. Whether that be with human or alien, she simply wants to belong! now it does occur...in more ways than one!

I talk about her portrayal in the Original 85 and the novels, plus her "appearance" in Prelude to the Shadow Chronicles. And also my thoughts on how the novel Before the Invid Storm went TOTALLY WRONG with this character. (Still love the novels though, hee hee!)

As always peoples, one point of view....if you have your views about her or any character, the door is open for your thoughts!

Big weekend ahead for the "Times"...

Saturday, March 13th EPISODE 19 OF THE PROTOCULTURE TIMES with all the segments you come to know.....and sometimes love!

and Sunday, Sunday, Sunday March 14th, Our MEGA RESULTS SHOW for our poll questions and Round 1 of the first and only.......

SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!!!!!!!!!!

CLICK HERE TO SEE AND VOTE ON ROUND 1!

Best part about this (besides the fun!) is that YOU decide the results! Voting for both the current poll questions and Round 1 of the tournament are open until March 13th, 11:59 PM.

So VOTE VOTE VOTE!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!

Seeya this weekend!

-JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

RANDOM THOUGHTS 03/10/10

With everything else goin' on...I didn't think I'd have time for a new set of musings....

Ehhhh.....I thought wrong! LOL!

RandomCasts may be gone...but as I said...Random Thoughts...those stick around! 

March 4th 2010....Robotech's 25th Anniversary....and absolutely NO CELEBRATION by the parent company....maybe they will have a party for Shadow Chronicle's anniversary.....(ROLLS EYES)

No matter......MORE PARTY TIME FOR JT! WOOHOO!

Recently, Robotech's "official" spokesperson Kevin Mckeever decided to "slap down" a questioning fan over at Robotech.com.Now I know in his spot, he's gotta paint the the bright picture for the franchise...but some of the things he said.....(exhales)...just doesn't gel well ....Here's his response to the things that the fan inquired. My thoughts are in italics;

Fan :So, here's a question for you Kevin: What is Harmony Gold doing to attract NEW fans to the franchise at THIS momen

Kevin: Robotech and Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles are now available through iTunes, Xbox Live, Amazon, and Direct2Drive, along with Sony's Playstation Network Store. Also in the past year we have put the orginal Robotech Series and the Shadow Chronicles up on Hulu.com and YouTube.com.

These platforms have done very well for us. That even today (3/10/2010) Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles is the #1 Animated Feature Film on Hulu.com and #7 overall feature download.

This how people are rediscovering Robotech and new fans are discovering the show.

You keep on saying our merchandise is a “niche” market but it making the franchise money.

Now Kevin never really answers the question on what Harmony Gold is doing to attract new fans. Handing out the license to distribute the footage is one thing, but Hulu, Itunes and the others pretty much handle the real leg work from there. So.....what is Harmony Gold doing except handing out distribution rights? Can't they promote the product on their own?

And once again, with the Shadow Chronicles lovefest....funny how the Original 85 are constantly left to the side....and they are on Hulu, Itunes and the rest too....really shows what is priority right now....

Fan: Also, see reports from the Robotech convention tour (i.e. almost the exact same news "updates" as the past 3 years)

Kevin: Tom Rob Smith writing a updated draft of the LAM was announced LAST year. Lawarence Kasdan and Akiva Goldman on the LAM project were announced two years ago. We announced at AOD about 1 month ago that Carl is now working with us.

Can you tell me which convention we announced those items in 2007?

LAM....Production limbo....mentioning the writers  to me is the "Hey it's better than nothing defense"..but since HG doesn't have a say in the movie, in my opinion, Kevin's response is  irrelevant...

Fan: the Robotech Convention Tour is really for existing fans, both die-hard and casual, since each presentation is basically a discussion on nostagia.

Kevin: Actually the convention tour pulls in quite large number of new fans. Very little of the tour is nostalgia. (see above for a example) We often do new announcements at the conventions and tell people what is going on.

Convention tour NOT nostalgic? Kevin has billed it as "celebrating Robotech's 25th Anniversary" ...ehhh....you can't get MORE nostalgic than that! They have a ridiculous logo ....of course Shadow Chronicles themed.....And when you are talking about how Prelude to the Shadow Chronicles sells for $80 on Ebay....Tommy said that last year, so there you have MORE nostalgia.....And of course you have Carl Macek now....Honestly, I'm missing the whole...."Very little of the tour is nostalgia."....

 Fan :When I was at AOD in San Francisco, I saw countless kids and teens walk towards the Codename: Robotech screening and, after watching for about 30 seconds, they just walked away despite there still being seats available.

Kevin: You do realize that happens at nearly every anime screening at conventions?

                  That's a fact of life.....so I agree.....(DAMN!)

Fan: Still, just from observation from random anime websites including this site and RobotechX.com, it appears that the number of people who believe Robotech is in a coma have increased.

Kevin: You know in 2006 we had people who self boated how they “knew this business” on other websites say things like “fans are leaving in droves”, “the delays are killing Robotech”, TSC will be a “failure” since Harmony Gold is not marketing like Superman Returns. All of Robotech fandom “hates” Hamony Gold and will NEVER buy TSC. The film festival tour was “giving away all the revenue” In the end it ALL of those predictions by those who “knew this business” were WRONG.

So you might understand why I take issue with your blanket statements. 

Here's a thought.... Maybe Harmony Gold should just drop the name Robotech....abolish the Original 85....and just call it the Shadow Franchise...I'm sure that would shut people up....and I'm being serious here....

And this whole childish "nyah nyah nyah nyah nyah, I was right, you were wrong!".....Kevin's a supposed executive of a company....leave that kindergarten shit to Memo as he's perfected it....Kevin WORKS for Harmony Gold...he should ACT like it....

Hmmm...perhaps that's the wrong thing to say, taking current history into consideration....

And Kevin, there are a alot of people that take issue with the fact that you're even INVOLVED in the Robotech franchise to begin with so that about evens things out....

Fan: I'm not saying Robotech is dying or dead, it's just not making headlines at the moment. .

Kevin : A franchise making headlines is not a good view of its success or failure.

Harmony Gold is very pleased with Robotech’s performance and is FULLY committed to the franchise for the LONG TERM. It is not doomed, in a coma or going to go away any time soon.

We are here to stay.

Kevin McKeever
ROBOTECH.com

Classic corporate finish.....whistling through the graveyard......I remember Circuit City telling their customers that they were here to stay.....over 500 empty locations and many liquidation sales later....

          I'm just sayin.....

Now Kevin titled this post as "Days like this is why I love my job…" Which begs to ask.....

What exactly is his job?...Lip service?....Forum Flame baiter?  Cause we wll know he wants to set up this fan who dared question Harmony Gold up for Memo so he can lower the banhammer. In his position he should know better....

But look who I'm talking about here.....

And for that matter...why isn't this apparent "Harmony Gold defense" showing up on the main page of Robotech.com?

Even more intriguing than ANYTHING ELSE...what exactly are KEVIN'S contributions to Robotech?

And begging conventions to invite HG does not count....

But yet after ALL THIS , he still NEVER answered the original question asked....

"What is Harmony Gold doing to attract NEW fans to the franchise at THIS moment? "

      Why CAN'T Kevin answer that question?...

         

      OOPS!!!....My bad guys....hee hee!

(EXHALES)......It's perplexing....I'm not making an argument for the future of Robotech, but the way Kevin conducts himself on this occasion....just shows the arrogance that has become Robotech's division of Harmony Gold......

But I'm not going to try and understand anymore.....look who we're talking about???

Besides......IT"S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Seeya for the next AnniversaryCast!

JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

ANNIVERSARYCAST #4 RICK HUNTER...I LIKE HIM...BUT I DON'T LIKE HIM!

Hi there!

The party continues with AnniversaryCast #4!!!!

Download this episode (right click and save)

Thanks to everyone who has chimed in on the first 3! I'm riding a high that I won't be coming down for a long period of time! 

On this edition, I have a few words about the character that spans all three generations of Robotech and has a "commanding" presence EVEN when he's not on screen...and that is of course RICK HUNTER!

I talk about his portrayal in the Original 85 and the Expanded Universe. There are things that I like.....and thing's that I DON'T like! With everything in Robotech, it's all up to one's interpretations of things! And remember this is one fan's view. I invite everybody to chime in on Rick or any of the characters. I've had the chance to talk to so many fans with such interesting opinions so don't be shy!

And I want to say thank you to all who have participated in the polls. They will be up until Saturday night so if you haven't...go over to the right and vote!

And a BIG SHOUT OUT to all who have participated in the one and only....

SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!!!!

 CLICK HERE TO GO DIRECTLY THERE!

The first round is looking like a fight with some matches. Remember, it is YOU who decides who advances to the next rounds on the way to be crowned CHAMPION!!!

We got another AnniversaryCast coming up on Thursday...then Episode 19 of the main show and then our Mega Results Show for both the polls and the first round of the tournament so you're gonna get big helpings of The Protoculture Times this week! Well of course.....

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!!!

One more thing if I may......to the "group" from Saturday night. (AND YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE!) THANK YOU for the kindness you have shown me. That was one of the sweetest things a person could ever have done for them and it's an honor that people can have you in their thoughts like that! You have my gratitude, ALWAYS.......

REVIVE FOR 25!

JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

ANNIVERSARYCAST #3.......THE TOURNAMENT!

Hello all!

First,  don't forget the poll questions  on the right, we've got a week to go on them so.......vote! LOL! 

Ok, I  have mentioned it in the first two, now we have come to ANNIVERSARYCAST #3

Download this episode (right click and save)

And the time has come to reveal that "something special" I've been talking about....so.....

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, BOYS AND GIRLS, CHILDREN OF ALL AGES.....

The Protoculture Times is proud to present in commemoration of Robotech's 25th Anniversary the first and only........

SDF-25 MECHA TOURNAMENT!!!!!!

Thirty two mecha have been selected  from Robotech's Original 85 episodes and The Sentinels. They have been placed  into a tournament bracket with first, second, quarter, semi and final rounds!

32 MECHA.....1 CHAMPION!

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE DETAILS AND TO SEE THE BRACKETS!

Read! Think! VOTE! But above all else..........................HAVE FUN!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!

REVIVE FOR 25!

-JT

protoculturetimes@gmail.com

ANNIVERSARYCAST #2 - NEW POLL QUESTIONS TO KICK THINGS OFF!

Hi guys!

Thanks to everybody who chimed in about AnniversaryCast #1. I actually went back to listen to it and I was like DAMN! that guy's crazy....or that he's just really excited about Robotech's 25th Anniversary! LOL!

Thanks to Sighup aka David Peñna for the plug on Robotechx.com!

Well as promised, here we are for AnniversaryCast #2!!

Download this episode (right click and save)

And we start off the celebration with a new set of poll questions! THEY ARE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THIS PAGE! All ready for you to make that vote. the questions are all Robotech related and I hope everyone has fun with them!

Some of them may make you think so choose wisely.

If you have any suggestions for the next set of questions, hit me up and I'll see what I can do. They gotta be fun, about Robotech and in good taste!

And coming up on Saturday...that's right TOMORROW...I have something really special that I know everybody can enjoy. I've been working on this for a few weeks and I wanted something interactive that gets fans thinking about that one thing that stands out in Robotech!

I can't wait!

Get out there and vote on the polls...you got Robotech Memories you want to share....the door is open peoples!

REVIVE FOR 25....IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!!!!

Seeya tomorrow night!

-JT

ANNIVERSARYCAST #1- HAPPY ANNIVERSARY ROBOTECH!!!!!!!!!

OHHHHHH YEEEAHHHHH! The day has finally arrived!

One March 4th 1985, an 85 episode animated series debuts on American television....

It's name........ROBOTECH.

Twenty five years later.......

IT'S ANNIVERSARY DAY BABY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MiniCast.....better yet ANNIVERSARYCAST #1.  A special introduction to one fan's one month celebration.

Download this episode (right click and save)

A lot of stuff in store in the coming days and with one objective.......TO HAVE SOME FUN!!!

Let the partyin' begin!

IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!

Seeya tomorrow!

- JT

RANDOM THOUGHTS 03/02/10 - WHAT I'VE LEARNED....SO FAR.

March...


Robotech's Anniversary...


It's been quite a journey here...and it's been well worth it!


One of the things that has been reaffirmed to me is that no matter how meticulously you plan things out....it NEVER turns out that way....sometimes for the worse....but sometimes for the better.


When it concerns Robotech, I've learned quite a few new things about the characters and the mecha (but don't ask me about mecha specs, LOL!). I have come to appreciate the story a whole lot more and enjoy it in all its facets whether that be the Original 85, novels, comics or RPGS.

Also, I've learned...


....in podcasting you have to laugh at yourself A LOT. Listening back...which I hate to do... DAMN! you would think I was on a caffeine rush!...But I can't claim that, just something happens when I hit the RECORD button.


....that in the face of adversity.....you shrug and adjust.....I could always go the "easy" way and turn the "Times" into vile showcase....but as always....JT needs to do things...THE HARD WAY.

... that the Robotech fandom is INTERNATIONAL in a big way!!!! It's humbling to know that there are people out there all over the world cheking you out...and I'm blessed to have had the opportunity to be able to talk to different fans here in the States and abroad!


... of the AMAZING talent shown by the fan projects! These people, with their creativity and drive are so inspirational. They do it not for the recognition, but because they LOVE doing it!


... so much about the diversity of opinion....even with those who would love nothing more than to see me go away...I don't get angry with it...(well, not anymore, hee hee!)...Hey, everybody's going to have one!...The beauty of it is.....I can always have a counter opinion.


... to embrace the praise, not an easy thing for me to do. I'll always consider myself just a Robotech fan who was CRAZY enough to enter the arena of podcasting in such a diverse fandom. Though, yes,  I'm immensely proud of what I've done! And no amount of rhetoric will change my mind about that.


...that I really want to see Macross, Southern Cross, and Mospeada in their original forms.


This I didn't learn...because I already knew it....when Robotech is used for a platform of racism, sexism, and threats of violence, it's pathetic.....


I've learned that at times I can be this smartass little shit!...And also piss off a few people without saying much....and ya know?.....I LOVE IT!


I just learned something the other night too....I had a follow up chat with Maverick_LSC....along with a few others....I think he and I will always have a different take on things Robotech....I don't like his approach on certain things and vice versa....though I will, and I can't believe I'm doing this...but I give him kudos for showing regret over his OCD comments made a few months ago. On that, I can close the book on. ....Now about some of the other thngs....well, let's just say we're miles apart.


And Maverick....don't OVERanalyze Robotech....take it for what it is...and enjoy it! And I never doubted that you are a Robotech fan, ok? You really do love the product....and Harmony Gold. (Come on, you knew I would say that!)


Just be mindful of what you say....otherwise I might have to reinstate the RandomCast!...LOL!


When it comes to Memo.....hmmmm....I'm in a good mood....why spoil it talking about him?

It's about havin' some fun....and that's what I have planned for Anniversary month!

I'll be posting minicasts, blog posts and of course my regular episodes. All things Robotech related and I invite everyone to chime in with your Robotech Memories through all the ways you can contact me and it would be my pleasure to read it on the show!

And do we have polls for the Month of March...LOTS AND LOTS OF POLLS!

And.....a special surprise! Something that all can participate in and use that Robotech Spirit to celebrate 25 years!

Stay tuned this week for more....

REVIVE FOR 25!.....IT'S ANNIVERSARY TIME BABY!

-JT