While I did not have a ticket for the Live 8 concert in Hyde Park, I went there today after a trek to Notting Hill Portobello Road to see if I would see any of the concert on one of the huge jumbo screens. By the time I got there, REM was on the stage, but the audio quality where I was at, was somewhat spotty so after about an hour, I came home. And let me say that I’m glad I did. Watching on TV I have a much better view of the bands playing — plus through the interactive button, I was able to check out performances in some of the other cities. Everyone seems to be having incredible fun. I only hope that the performers as well as those in attendance will remember the real reason for these concerts — that being to eradicate poverty in Africa. So here’s hoping that when the G8 leaders meet in Scotland next week they will head the calling and do something to help. More importantly, here’s hoping that the people in Africa rise up and do for themselves. Africa has gotten more aid donations that any other part of the world yet it lags behind in most areas. Now there are a multitude of reasons for this, but the time has come for the people there to cast aside these dictators who live like Kings yet do nothing for there people. So rise up I say. Rise up! As fun as these concerts are, hopefully there will come a time when they are not necessary.