Julian Ayrs 2nd Annual Worst (& Best) Dressed Women! Cher, Sarah Palin, and Lady Gaga in special category...

Mr. Blackwell infamous for fashion haikus

Last year, when Obama was triapsing about on the campaign trail - vigorously purusing the role of Commander-in-Chief - I penned a post with a handful of fashion tips so the upstart from Chicago would cut a fine sartorial path for potential supporters.

Post:  06/05/08

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/06/barack-obamafashion-tips-for-stylish.html

A blogger stumbled across the fahion spread, and hinted to his readers, that I just might be the next fashion wit, Mr. Blackwell.

Blackwell - formerly a well-respected fashion designer - was King of the Haiku quips - so when he passed to spirit last year there was a cavernous tongue-in-check void to fill.

So, I took up the delightful task, and unveiled my 1st Annual Worst & Best-Dressed lists for Women and Men at the end of the year.

Post:  12/28/08

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/12/10-worst-dressed-listcher-oprah-and.html


Post:  01/31/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/01/julian-ayrs-1st-annual-worst-dressed.html

Can it really be a year later since the first platform shoe dropped with a thud?

So, now, I tout my 2nd Annual Worst & Best-Dressed list put the spotlight on the ladies, first.

Tomorrow, the 2nd Annual Best & Worst-Dressed list will be published for the man-about-town who curried favor - then again  - just maybe did not!

2nd Annual Best & Worst Dressed Women's list

Angelina Jolie

One of the rare exoic females of the species capable of stutting her stuff  in a body-fitting sheath that smacks of sensuality and undisputed tantalizing fashion appeal!

The undestanted earrings spark up the outfit - and ultimately - add a  touch of understated elegance.

Jolie, is simply a dazzling gem!

Bai Ling

I confess, I have a soft spot in my heart - and fashion musings - for Ms. Ling.

Over the past year, we crossed paths on several auspicious occasions, and became fast friends.

The stunning beauty is a chic clotheshorse - both on the gangway - and off.

In fact, when the talented actress strides out on a press junket to promote a film, the paparazzi go wild;  after all, Bai Ling is an intriging subject who never disappoints in eye-catching designer gowns and cocktail frocks  that underscore her unique signature style and flair for the exotic and unusual.

Sarah Ferguson

In her glory days as the Duchess of York, Miss Ferguson was inclined to sashay over-the-top, all decked out in floppy frothy oversized hats (Hedda Hopper would be proud ) and gowns bogged down with stuffy-old bows and wings and all-manner-of fashion flourishes that went bump in the night.

Ghastly, for the most part.

But, in recent years, the Duchess has nurtured into stylish sensiblity that speaks volumes for her.

At the recent screening of  "Young Victoria" (Producer), I got an up-close personal gander at the perky redhead, who was not only ravishing - but correctly turned out, too - for the occasion.

Hats off to weight-watchers for helping her turn the fashionista corner!

Michelle Obama

Over the past year, 1st Lady Michelle Obma demonstrated a keen fashion sense - especially in respect to the appropriateness of an outfit - while out on public jaunts and on kick-back occasions at home at the White House while holding court.

Oftentimes, casual ensembles were spruced up with pastels,  or subtle fashion flourishes.

At high-profile events, Obama's better-half displayed a flair for a defining look, which was never over-the-top or in your face.

A clothes-horse along the lines of Jackie-O  (in the making).

Barbara Walters

Although the feisty gal - with the gift of gab - is getting on in years,  Walters  doesn't intend to get stuffy, dated, or become an old stick-in-the-mud.

On the recent 10 most -fascinating special, for instance, the likeable hostess-with-the-mostest was gussied up in a tasteful body-fitting gown - and subtle accessories - which not only suited her distinctive facial features but trimmed years off her age.

Always keen on what is socially and politically correct, Walters manages to saunter in-and-of the spotlight in a wardrobe that underscores that a middle-aged woman has many fashion choices given a little thought.

Miley Cyrus

The headlines screamed that the young songbird's  pretty cocktail dress plunged a lttle too low, when she appeared for an audience,  with Queen Elizabeth at a tony Royal Performance.

 Hooey.

The charismatic young beauty was not only a knock-out, but got the nod from this discerning fashionista  on his lofty perch in WeHo.

In fact, in recent days, Miley has been coming into her own in a trend-setting sense, with a maturer style that - ultimately - belies her critics.

It will be curious to see what she conjures up next for red carpet soirees in the future.

Julia Roberts

A perennial favorite who has experienced her share of fashion victimitis over the years, actress Julia Roberts has carved a niche for herself as the down-to-earth girl-next-door who cleans up nicely thank-you very much.

On top of the latest fashion trends, the award-winning actress is inclined to take a stab at fresh couture offerings now and then.

To  many, Ms.Roberts is worth her weight in gold when it comes to bellweather trends and fashion influence.

And, therefore, treads lightly.

She's comfortale and pretty in the classy outfit pictured here, but racey numbers suit her, too.

As versatile on the fashion trail as she is up on the big screen.

Emily Blunt

A fresh-faced beauty - just as comfortable in her skin - when exquisitely trussed up in period wardrobe (Young Victoria) or squeezed into a body-hugging understated cocktail dress sparked up with a dash of stardust.

Pay attention to her lightly-applied make-up, gals, which conjures up a look au naturel that's difficult to hold a candle to.

A star in the galaxy worth keeping an eye on for sure!

Paris Hilton

Last year, the Beverly Hills dish - with undeniable sex appeal - ended up on the worst-dressed list becasue of ensemble choices that underscored she was prone to become a fashion victim ad nauseam..

At the recent premiere of her documentary "Paris" - up-close-and-personal - I was literally dazzled by her charm, elegance, and stand-out style.

You've come a long way, baby!

Katie Couric

Oh, such a darling!

Over the years, Katie has continued to smile sweetly, as network brass transformed her on-camera image from girl-next-door, to conservative newsie and onward to trusted night anchor.

During those topsy-turvey days of bending, shaping, and primping, American TV viewers gobbled her up.

Would the real Katie  step forward, please!

Something tells me, the outfit pictured here, is more along the lines of her own fashion taste; if so, get out the applause soundtrack,

After all, I'm always partial to chic black party dresses and pearls.

But Katie, dear, you need a little coaching with the hands

Ten Worst-Dressed Women

(would you bed any of these inductees)

Amy Winehouse

Is that a banana in your shorts, Amy, or are you just happy to see us?

Fashionista impressions?

The pop star couldn't compete with a West Hollywood Drag Queen on Karaoke night, even after two-or-three drinkie-poohs too many!

Toss that broad some spare change, will 'ya, so she can spring for a sex change!

Cher

Bound and chained more-often-than-not, all the Pop Diva needs is a oil-soaked gag, to deliver up the perfect scintillating image of a slave-mate!

You'd think Cher - who usually pays a lot of attention to Details! Details! Details - would have at least swept up the pube shavings (rear right) before posing for the alluring publicity still.

If a gaggle of fans are lucky, she'll auction 'em off at Caesar's next opening night.

La Toya Jackson

A booby-trap waiting to happen!

And, the perfect poster chick, to warn about the perils of botched botox injections.

Queen Latifa

The porky Diva is a role model for all hefty African-American women with an unwitting taste for the tacky!

In one fell swoop, Latifa underscores a myriad of fashion debacles hot-to-trot single mammas  (packing twenty pounds too many) should avoid to ward off nick-names like "old lard ass" (etc. etc. etc.)

Bottom line?

The popular torch-singer is better off slipping into a free-flowing Kaftan, than the stringy garb cutting into the folds of fat (which don't flatter and tend to contrict her).

Sarah Palin

Palin, fashion innovator (oh, yeah!) first and foremost (unless the clothes are rented by the Republicans)  unveils a clever twist on a once-charming fashion accessory - known to college goodie two-shoes - as the "fur muff"

In the great white north, Palin is inclined to raucously shout out:

Fur's up!

If you pry the former ice Queen for the fashion specifics, she'll sure as heck give 'ya a scrunched up wink, and proudly note matter-of-fact: for the record, that she killed the dumb fur-bearing  with her own handsanimal while donning her Sunday best on the way to Church.

Amen!

Wanda Sykes

Comedian Wanda Sykes is quick on the uptake with rat-a-tat rapid-fire jokes that tickle the funny bone, alright.

But, she's more of a hoot to take a gander at!

In a nutshell, the comic is a ghastly mirror-image of an ovestuffed pheasant with ubiquitous fringe on the top

Don't ruffle her ragged feathers, or she'll make you the butt of a joke in a punch-line, for starters.

Being the butt of talk-show fodde, is in Vogue, though.

Totally, dudes!

Meryl Streep

Obviously, Ms. Streep didn't nab this coveted award for any innate sense of style!

After all, the talented actress is basically a mish-mash of stylish after-rthoughts that end up crying out for sympathy (no encore, please).

Meryl, you're over-the-hill, out-of-the fashion loop, and gone-to-seed.!

And, the baubbles?

Toss 'em before swine

No problem!

Oprah Winfrey

A smorgasbord of fashion flourish disasters!

Having gobbled up too much of each, it's obvious, the tell-tale signs of indigestion (and our indignation) has set in.

Style misfires - scooped neck, gaudy buckle, spitting fabric belt - amount to a belly-flop (not the divine swang song) Ms. Piggy was reaching for.

A tidal wave of frump gone awry and on its way to cable hell (and back?).

Good riddance.

Leslie Stahl

A pretty woman plagued by boyish tendencies.

Is Stahl off to audition for the role of a bobbsy-twin playing opposite TV lesbo, Ellen?

Or is she just smitten with the perky talk show host's waif-like persona?

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, they say.

Thin-legged jeans which accent skinny gams, out-of-place T-shirts, and manish leather jackets in off-color shades of brown, also accentuate the obvious.

Stahl doesn't have the Hepburn pannache (or style DNA) to pull it all off.

Best-Worst Dressed Woman

Lady Gaga

Pop Diva alights in a spanking new category

Sizzling stage performer, Lady Gaga, tends to be an eclectic mix-and-match hodge-podge of eye-catching fabrics crafted into show-shopping get-ups that  drum up wild roars from the crowd.

Even still, she usually managess to hit a top that usually strikes a balance, which resonates with her die-hard fans and Pop Music afficianados.!

The mercurial Diva - with a penchant for chapeaus of the wild and whoolly variety - on occasion saunters into a fashion faux pas (or two) - like the night she squeaked by during the occasion of her audience with the Queen of England.

Naughty, yes!

But, endearing, too.

A likely candidate to mug for "No Excuses" commercials, eh?

Her fashion sense (and scintillating style) is all over the map, though  - which is the major crux of the dilemma for fashionistas pulse-takers who strive to slot their subjects into neat & ttidy packages for easy consumption.

For this reason, and with her stage persona at the forefront of my style-concious sensibilities, I crown her Best-Dressed Worst-dressed because she is a stand alone fashion wonder which will continue to rage on amidst thunderous applause for decades to come.

http://www.julianayrs.com

Al Qaeda...nabs responsibility for X-Mas terrorist attack! Detroit incident triggers action...

X-Ray body scans at airports!

A few days ago whe I reported on the incident over the Detroit airport, I noted that a source confided that the perpetrator of the attack - Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab - was in league with the terrorist organization - Al Qaeda - who put him up to the task.

To be prudent, I also noted that an official announcement from the White House would be required before  anyone in the Government (or press, for that mattwer) could take the official position that the failed attempt to down the jetliner was - in fact - a bona fide terrorist attack.

Post:  12/25/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/12/terrorist-attackfailed-attempt-to-down.html

Since that fateful day, al Qaeda associates in Yemen have claimed responsibility for the assault on Northwest Flight No. 253.

Janet Napolitano (Homeland Security Secretary) stated matter-of-fact on Monday that U.S. security systems worked on that Holy day.

A full investigation has determined that was not the case, though, so the official stance of the Government has since changed.

In fact, an embarrassed President was forced to go on a National broadcast and apologize to the American public for the glaring gaffe and obvious breach in security measures.

Apparently potential leads on the suspect were not followed up, for starters.

A terrorist faction - "al Qaeda in the Arabian Penninsula" - acknowledged involvement and cited reasons for the attack which took Americans by surprise at the start of the holiday weekend.

Apparently, al Qaeda was retaliating against the U.S. for its alleged role in a recent Yemen military offensive.

Three U.S. officials with highly-sensitive information about the American military maneuvers referred to, would not deny involvement,  or even comment on the al Qaeda allegations.

In an interesting twist, U.S. Officers have revealed that some of the terrorist militants that were killed in airstrikes in Yemen, may have been former prisoners at Guantanamo Bay.

In closing, it is worthwhile to note that allies to the north - and elsewhere around the globe - are imposing stricter guidlines for travellers bound for U.S. shores.

For example, it was reported today on transit TV, that Canadian airlines are restricting carry-on baggage and - in addition to other cautionary measures - are conducting intrusive X-ray body scans also.

Although the terrorist attack on the Northwest Airliner was thwarted, in the aftermath, al Qaeda has still managed to strike a fatal blow on a multitude of physical, emotional, and psychological  levels.

Will there ever be an end to the terror?

http://www.julianayrs.com

Crystal Palin...seeks sole custody of child! Buffed Levi fights back...

Word out of the great white north is that Crystal Palin has moved forward with a court action, and is requesting sole custody of the child fathered by former boyfriend Levi Johnston, in addition to child support.

Not about to take it on the chin, Levi launched his own counter-attack against the Palin clan, by responding with a request for shared custody.

If recent comments made on the Joy Behar talk show during the course of a televised interview with Johnston are true (Sarah Palin inferred that Levi was not a good father because he was too busy selfishly pursuing fame and fortune on the celebrity beat) the young stud may have a nasty uphill battle on his manly hands.

Judging by the estranged father's response to the allegations that evening, I expect those were fighting words to his ears.

Then, there is the issue of his recent spread in Playgirl Magazine.

Will the Judge presiding over the case find that this kind of - um - exposure makes him unfit as a father or simply an uninhibited undressed one who just happens to be footloose and fancy-free?

News at 11!

A child in need

http://www.julianayrs.com

Barack Obama...Immigration overhaul in works! Temporary Visas may require INS monitoring...

Chief of Staff responds to disgruntled Doris Meissner!

The other day, I ranted a little over the local Police Chief's vigorous defense of Special Order 40, and his overall lack of common sense regarding illegal immigrant issues.

Post:  12/27/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/12/illegal-immigrantsspecial-order-40.html

On the heels of the controversy, the White House has announced that the Barack Obama adminstration intends to tackle the immigration problem which is long overdue for an overhaul.

Right-off-the-bat, critics have pooh-poohed the notion, on the grounds that Obama has too much on his plate already.

Promises to deal with global warming, econmic recovery, and much-needed regulation in the banking arena, are a far cry from being met.

In spite of that, insiders have whispered that Senior aides have glad-handed Latino activists on the hill, and assured powerful forces within their ranks that a reform will be forthcoming.

Bottom line, a handful of the trusted in Obama's inner circle, have hinted that there will be legislation guaranteeing Citizenship to an estimated 12 million legal immigrants residing on these shores at last count.

Whether a bill squeaks through or not may depend on the ability of supporters to establish that efforts to secure the borders will be successful.

With this in mind, an ambitious plan for a temporary visa program for migrant workers, has been bandied about once again (in spite of the fact it was roundly rejected in the past).

Opponents argue that once a temporary visa is issued to a day-worker, there is no guarantee the individual will return to their homeland once the documents expire.

Of course, I have toyed with my own solution to that problem.

In the event temporary visas are issued to seasonal workers - as a matter of course - the INS would be entitled to monitor the legal status of the day workers in the fields, at plants where immigrants are employed seasonally, and so forth and so on.

Employers caught hiring illegal immigrants would face stiff fines as a deterrent - with the proceeds going towards the funding of the temporary Visa program and its subsequent backup checkpoint system.

To date, the White House has been tight-lipped about a guest worker program.

It should be noted that that an immigration bill was introduced a few weeks ago and hat there is an all-out effort behind-the-scenes currently to piece together the groundwork.

But, time is of the essence, according to sources.

Realistically, key individuals would have to agree on issues prior to the spring thaw..

Otherwise, because of the upcoming November elections, an Immigration bill may stall - and consequently - end up on the back burner stewing.

In the event immigration legislation gets new life breathed into it, and goes forwrard by some miracle, political pundits are speculating that White House Chief of Staff - Rahm Emanuel - will have a hand in nurturing it to fruition.

After all, in the past, Emanuel has demonstrated a sensitivity towards high-profile players on both sides of the fence, which has not gone unnoticed by his superiors.

However, those he has allegedly "berated" in the past, have nothing but unkind criticisms for the man.

In the morning daily, for instance, an  LA TIMES reporter noted that Doris Meissner (former head of the INS) complained that Mr. Emanuel overstepped his authority on one occasion when he rang her up on the telephone and demanded she send border agents to handle a troubling incident in Arizona which was drawing fire from the media.

"This kind of press is killing us," he allegedly hissed at her.

Frankly, I've had dealings with Ms. Meissner - being an immigrant, and all - and found the woman to be useless.

In fact, I cheered the day she was sent packing!

When I recall her shocking lack of professionalism, overall incompetence, and disturbing lack of suitability for the post, I am reminded of an old saying which is applicable here.

"Consider the source"

Doris was gainfully employed at Department of Injustice

http://www.julianayrs.com

Roman Polanski....mum on trial in abstentia! Thanks supporters amidst clanging ankle chain...

For the first time since his arrest several weeks ago, Roman Polanski has broken his silence, and reached out to his supporters.

The director, currently under house-arrest in Switzerland awaiting possible extradition to the U.S. to face sentencing for rape charges, facilitated the web site of a friend and confidante (Bernard-Henri Levy) yesterday to thank a posse of friends, fans, and business associates for sticking by him during a traumatic rough patch in his life (triggered by his recent arrest in Switzerland).

Polanski, however, was mum about the recent court proceedings in the 2nd Appellate Court.

For good reason!

Neither he nor his lawyers - the prosecutors even - appeared to be too thrilled with the decision handed down by the Justices in the Court of Appeal.

If you recall, the celebrated film director sought to overturn a lower-court ruling in recent days which denied his motion to dismiss the rape case outright on grounds of judicial and prosecutorial misconduct when the case was first tried about three decades ago.

I reported on that earlier court matter, if you recall.

Post:  12/11/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/12/roman-polanskijustices-review-age-old.html

In sum, the prosecutor's office vigorously argued that binding legal precedents dictated that Polanski was barred from the relief he sought because he fled the court's jurisdiction rather than face sentencing a handful of years ago.

Surprisingly - the Justices seized on another argument that was even more compelling - which won out  in the end.

The court acknowledged there was some credence to Polanski's claims of unfair treatment and judicial misconduct - and recommended therefore - that the incarcerated director urge the court to hear the matter in abstentia (without the necessity of his presence at the U.S. Court hearing) to resolve the dangling dilemmas plaguing the final resolution of the case issues.

In the event Polanski opts to go the route recommended by the Justices, he is required to pen a letter to the court of jurisdiction, and request that the case go foward in his absence.

In view of the director's failure to respond to date, it would appear he is either reluctant to seek that option, or just weighing his options before taking action.

News at 11!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Charlie Sheen...hides out in LA LA LAND! Awaits decision from Aspen brass...

Half a man stews in LA LA LAND!

Authorities in Aspen announced yesterday that a decision won't be made until February in respect to the formal filing of charges against actor Charlie Sheen for assault, menacing, and criminal mischief.

Understandably, the Hollywood bad boy - who was thrust into the spotlight on Christmas day for allegedly threatening his wife - returned home to LA LA LAND to sweat it out.

In a 911 tape released to the media Monday, a distraught woman (later identified as Brooke Sheen, Charlie's wife) expressed a concern to Law Enforcement Officers that she was "going to die".

Appparently, Sheen flew into a rage after his wife asked for a divorce.

At one juncture, it was allegeed that Sheen held a knife to her throat, and threatened that if she left him he would kill her.

The star of the hit TV Show - Two and a Half Men - denied the accusations to officers assigned to head up the investigation.

Sheen was charged with a misdemeanor battery count for knocking down a former girlfriend and causing bodily injury in the past which resulted in probation, a suspended sentence, and community service.
Consequently, legal experts have opined that if the recent incident results in formal charges being filed, there may not be too much wiggle you for Sheen next time out.

Sheen's prior conviction may not bode well for the TV actor if a new case is filed and set for trial.

A first offense may have been a foolish misadventure gone awry, but a second offense - some say - may hammer home to a Judge and Jury that the individual is prone to engage in domestic violence - and consequently - loved ones may be at risk if there isn't any meaningful intervention.

A Judge may decide that jail time is a necessary punishment to deter the violent conduct in the future, require anger management classes, or impose both with the specific aim of rectifying the emotional problems of the individual.

As I noted in a previous post earlier this week, Mr. Sheen's representative urged everyone not to jump to conclusions.

"Do not be misled by appearance," he cautioned.

Bottom line, if the case goes forward, Sheen will have his day in court.

Will the King have any clothes?

http://www.julianayrs.com/

WordPress...adios! Rinky-dink blog site rife with glitches! Violates Free Speech! Manned by idiots with no class...

A tome written with WordPress gang of losers in mind!

For the past few months, I have been dickering about whether to continue posting my blog entries at the WordPress web pages, due to frustrating problems that hinder the authoring process at the rinky-dink blogger outfit.

For starters, there are quite a few glitches which make the posting of an article a very time-consuming frustrating proposition.

For example, on occasion when I attempt to transfer a post from another site to WordPress, right-off-the-bat, the article publishes willy-nilly about the page without any rhyme or reason.

When I attempt to tackle the problem - by painstakingly lining up images and paragraphs manually - the precise edits often do not take.

So, I am forced to start the editing process once again, with the hope that the post will eventually publish in a coherent professisonal manner.

On occasion, I have been forced to edit at least six times, without coming close to the end result I am trying to achieve, from an artistic standpoint.

In the final analysis, more often than not, I am forced to settle for less than perfect.

Conseqeuntly - I worry that my credibility (and reputaton) as a writer, blogger, and artist are at risk.

The experience is especially upsetting since the fault lies with WordPress's cheap under-developed software that literally blows!

To make matters worse, WordPress does not have spell check at the site, either.

Duh!

So, bloggers are forced to copy the post into a program like "word" - effect the changes when necessary - then, painstakingly transfer the material back to the edit bay at WordPress.

It is wholly conceivable at this juncture, that when the post is published, the material will scramble on the page (due to incompatability problems) - and thus - require another  fresh edit (or two or three or...).

Damn!

To review a post (when considering a potential edit for a myriad of legitimate reasons) the blogger is also forced to wait three or four minutes for the article to be dredged up (from God knows where) before the editing process can commence.

Again, a precious waste of man hours, for sure!

The automatic image and video clip installer often malfunctions, too, which means the photograph, drawing, or film clip must be diligently inserted by hand instead.

Nothwithstanding these glaring snafus, it should be noted for the record, that WordPress is assaulted daily by spam (which is annoying constant to deal with as well).

Although a blogger may install spam-blocker software for free - a multitude of comments and requests for legitimate links that I am anxious to receive - are scooped up and lumped in with the spam, too.

So, the glitch requires that I sift through all the data that has been blocked to ensure I don't miss a communication I may be interested in receiving (and/or posting) at the Pop Culture site I author.

For months, in spite of the frustrations, I hung in there because of my  loyal readers who apparently have gotten a tad addicted to my blog and its daily musings (judging by the traffic).

Then, another ugly problem reared its ugly head, which prompted me to call it quits.

In recent weeks, WordPress violated bloggers' rights to free speech - when they blocked the publishing of posts by a posse of intelligent upstarts (without legal notice or right to due process) whose opinions they disagreed with - until they managed to coerce the authors into penning the same kind of irrelvant old crap their nerdy (untalented) house-writers were inclined to vomit out daily ad nauseam

Well, that was the final straw, in my estimation.

I drive traffic to the WordPress site daily.

If those losers at that rinky-dink blog site think they're going  to censore me - or any of my post pals at the WordPress website - they are sorely mistaken.

In fact, at this point, they'd have to pay me big bucks to make any future creative contribution to their site - which essentially sucks big time - at this juncture.

So, Amigos - and die-hard fans at WordPress - take note.

If you want to peruse any of the scintillating new material, you'll have to cruise over to:

http://www.ijulian.blogspot.com/

or

http://www.julianayrs.com/

Of course, my articles are also posted daily at Zimbio (and promoted vigorously by the site owners), I am happy to report).

Yup!

Some folks recognize when they're blessed, unlike some other bozzos, who shall remain nameless for obvious reasons!

Deity WordPress gooks pay homage to daily!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Bank of the West...excessive feesl Rude insulting staff! Consumers in need ripped-off...

In recent months, the banks have belly-ached about being in financial straits, selfishly grabbed for hand-outs from the Government at the expense of the American tax-payer, then continued on their merry way with their excessive perks, disheartening disregard for financially-strapped account-holders, and shameless bold-faced ploys (which amount to embezzlement of funds) to pad their profit-margins by bilking millions of consumers out of their cold hard cash by virtue of excessive bank fees that border on the criminal.

"Bank of the West" is the worst offender when it comes to this kind of highway robbery!

The Bank (with no heart to speak of) is a greedy corporate giant manned by staff who are not only rude and insulting but totally devoid of any compassion or understanding.

In fact, their reprehensible conduct should never be tolerated in a civilized society.

For example, when a customer strode into a local branch to sort out excessive bank charges, the manager not only failed to lend a sympathetic ear to the account-holder (who had never questioned their fee structures in the past) but proceeded to talk down to the upset individual.

"You need to take responsibility for your finances and monitor your accounts regularly on the checking line," he pompously lashed out at the account-holder who sat there in total disbelief.

Rather than work with their client - whose financial obligations had always been met over the course of the past year when most struggled to do the same - the manager was inclined to smugly insult the client rather than budge a little and work in a cooperative spirit in respect to sorting out the excessive surcharges which were dinged on the account.

At one point, when the individual noted they intended to file a complaint with the President of the Bank, the manager relented a little and agreed to give a $35.00 credit back, but was adamant that he would not comply with the request to credit back two $35.00 fees (totalling $70.00).

When the miffed client noted he intended to file a complaint with the White House and request an investigation of excessive fees at Bank of the West, the manager tried to coerce the customer into foregoing on filing the complaint by subtly inferring he'd retaliate.

For instance, at this juncture, he pointedly asked (with a slightly-raised eyebrow) if the account-holder  wanted the $35.00 credit offered or not.

Since he had already promised the credit twice during the course of the ongoing conversation, clearly, he was subtly inferring that if the customer filed the complaint (as promised) he would not issue the $35.00 credit.

What low disgusting unprofessional conduct!

It was obvious to me, as I witnessed the events, that the Bank employee was a real snake!

When that attempt at coercion failed, he snottily responded from out of left field.

"The White House is already investigating bank fees."

So, there!

Talk about petty.

By the way, in addition to the illegal $35.00 fees imposed on the account, the bank began to charge the customer a $5.00 fee for an overdraft which occurred due to the charges they billed the account without legal notice or fair warning.

Is there no end to their larceny?

The Bank Manager's conduct persisted after that.

At the request of the account-holder, he scribbled down his name - but did so in an illegible script - so that it was difficult to determine the exact spelling of his last name.

In addition, he refused to locate the name and address of the President of Bank of the West.

Does this sound like the kind of conduct that an up-front bank employee engages in?

I think not!

Clearly, Mr. Howerton (?) at the Beverly Hills branch (9401 Wilshire) was keenly aware that his unprofessional mean-spirited conduct was highly irregular and inappropriate.

Subsequently, he was trying to hide his identity to avoid recrimination from his superiors (and prevent his true legal name from being posted on the Internet in this consumer alert).

In closing, it should also be noted that Bank of the West also engages in other deceptive and dishonest business behaviour.

On the customer service hotline, operators often promise credits to customers, which fail to materialzie in their actual bank account.

In retrospect, it's obvious that the promise is just a clever ploy to get disgruntled customers off the line, so they can move on to the next unhappy customer waiting with similar complaints of embezzelement, unethical banking procedures, violtations of the rights of bank customers, and so forth and so on.

At a time when Banks are failing, and their integrity is placed in doubt, Bank of the West is obviously one financial institution that should be avoided like the plague (even if they do entice you with a cheap teddy bear purchased at the 99 cent store to open an account).

After all, they'll simply raid the account (embezzle funds) until the customer gets fed up and closes the account in disgust.

Bank of the West, is more aptly titled, Bank of the Worst.

Those slimy worms at the Beverly Hills branch can take credit for the appropriate moniker folks!

Bank of West rip-offs U.S. account-holders!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Footnote

*Bank of the West is a subsidiary of BancWest Corporation

*BancWest is wholly owned by the French Universal Bank

*Yes, folks, the Frenchies are sticking it to the Yankees!

Dreams...striking symbolic images resonate! White orchids stunning visual...

Last night, for some inexplicable reason, my dreams were remarkably vivid and symbolic in nature.

So much so, I hazard a guess that from the depths of my very soul, the future is being foreshadowed; albeit, in the mysterious language of the inner psyche - which is oftentimes - difficult to fathom.

If anything, it appears from the images that resonated in every fibre of my being, that there may be startling changes on the horizon in my personal and professional life!

In one dream sequence, for instance, I was striding through a park-like setting after having lost my way while out on a leisurely stroll.

As I searched for the way back home, I spied a door to a two-story wood-panelled house, and entered it.

Immediately, I found myself flying up a flight of stairs - at which point - I came across a young lady and a maid (tending to her needs).

When I entered unannounced, both individuals stared at me a tad puzzled, as a faint hint of recognition slowly crept across their otherwise emotionless faces.

Suddenly, I was shocked to discover that I was standing there stark naked!

Afraid that they might recognize me,  I turned on my heel,  dashed out the open door and tumbled down the stairs at break-neck speed.

When I stepped outside a second later, I was taken aback.

Now, I was in the midst of a breath-taking garden - brimming with exquisite white flowers laden with full blossoms in a myriad of exotic varieties (such as rare orchids) - and a blanket of thick lush greenery everywhere I gazed around me in astonishment.

At one point, I spied a busy city street a few feet away, so I headed in that direction.

As I slipped through a couple of bushes towards the sidewalk, an elderly gardener (who spoke french, if I recall correctly) asked me what I was doing there in the garden.

Although the pleasant-looking woman didn't appear to understand English very well, I managed to explain away my presence with little ado to her satisfaction.

Then, I woke up with a start!

Frankly, it's been years since I've had such a mesmerizing symbolic dream.

And, it will be many a moon, before I forget it.

Master dream interpreter Carl Jung

http://www.julianayrs.com

Julian Ayrs 2nd Annual Worst (& Best) Dressed list! Cher band-aid fashion a no-no? January 1st preview...

Which list will pop flavor Lady Gaga alight on?

(worst or best-dressed fashionista)

Last year, as a tribute to Mr. Blackwell (who passed to spirit earlier in the year), I unveiled my naughty 1st Annual Worst (& Best-dressed) lists for both Women & Men for 2009.

To refresh your memory, here's a list of the inductees, who were ceremoniously ushered into either the Hall of Glam or the tawdry Dregs of Shame last year:

10 Worst-Dressed Women & 10 Best-Dressed Women (2008)

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/12/10-worst-dressed-listcher-oprah-and.htmlst-dressed

10 Worst-Dressed Men & 10 Best-Dressed Men (2008)

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/01/julian-ayrs-1st-annual-worst-dressed.html

It's difficult to believe that a year has actually passed and that now I am faced with the difficult (deliciously perverse) task of singling out the Best & Worst-Dressed studs and buffed babes for my
2nd Annual list to be unveiled on January 1st (2010).

Will mummified Cher make the worst-dressed list once again?

How about a certain young chanteuse who's been squired around town in recent months in drop-dead gorgeous signature designer outfits? 

Will she make the grade as best-dressed or shrinking violet?

A well-heeled newsie is about to get kudos for tripping-the-morning news stylishly fantastic, if I am not mistaken.

Check back at the end of the week to gobble up the complete scintillating list of the haves and have-nots, just beckoning, eh?

Band-aid fashion borders on obscene - pubes - and all!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Best Buy...deceptive business practises! Defective products! Incompetent Geek Squad!

Lady Gaga used as lure by unscrupulous retailers!

Many of you probably recall the long lines at Best Buy on boxing day as penny-wise bargain hunters braved the elements to be the first to snap up discounted electronic products - laptop computers - in particular.

Unfortunately, a handful of consumers are grumbling now in the aftermath, for good reason.

In restrospect, it appears that Best Buy engaged in deceptive business practices, sold defective products, and hood-winked a trusting public in general.

For example, when customers snatched up discounted computers at three or four hundred bucks, they weren't aware that what they were buying was a shell of a PC, and that there would be additional greenbacks to fork out in the near future to maintain installed programs.

For starters, Microsoft Word was installed as a trial version, and not a keeper.

On each occasion a user opened up the software a message informed the startled individual that there were only twenty-five sessions available before the hapless victim would be required to buy a license at considerable cost to facilitate use of the program in the future.

In fact, as it turned out, a handful of the installed programs were offered up at purchase with the same provisio - but get this - Best Buy did not disclose that all-important detail at the point of sale.

Shoppers were also shaking their heads at check-out when it came time to purchase their computer.

A clerk at the cash register noted before ringing the item up that the laptops were installed with a security feature.

When the buyer uttered "okay" - after assuming that "security" meant  there was a lock or tracer on the product (it turned out to be a simple anti-virus packet) - they were shocked to learn that the feature not only cost $100.00 - but also required special servicing at the Geek Squad counter!

One consumer was anxious to  zip off to pack for a week-end get-a-way - and so - opted to pass on the software item.

Gotcha!

Opting out of the security feature also required a trek over to the Best Buy nerd experts so that the program could be deleted from the "guts" of the computer.

I don't know about you, but when I purchase a computer, I expect to be the first (and only) individual to ceremoniously log on to what amounts to a very pricey personal belonging.

But, the mind-boggling "fraud" doesn't end there!

When one intelligent computer-savvy buyer chose to acceept the sealed package - as is - and pay cash, his nose went a little out-of-whack when the annoying salesman tried to get him to fork over  his credit card for a scan.

"I'm paying cash," the startled gentleman hissed at him.

The response was unbelievable.

"We need to swipe the card so that when the anti-virus license is up for renewal a year from now (!) we can charge your account automatically."

Did they ask the consumer if he wanted to renew?

No, of course not!

The angry customer was so annoyed, he told the salesman to cancel the anti-virus protection.

Not one to lose a sale, the clerk was quick on the uptake.

"Okay, I'll delete the anti-virus program on the laptop, and install one that doesn't require a license renewal at the end of the year," he stated with smug satisfaction.

Even still, the disgruntled shopper was forced to wait a half-an-hour until that task was completed.

Customers need to be forewarned, too, to double-check the packing box and contents before leaving the retail outlet.

When Best Buy "nerds" effect the installation changes, they snatch up the original recovery CD's shipped from the manufacturer with the new laptop,  and substitute them for copies they've handwritten labels on.

Tacky!
Meanwhile, when the excited laptop owner aforementioned got home, he could have kicked himself for even stepping inside the door of Best Buy, in view of what transpired later.

Shortly,  after he logged on to the Internet, the laptop went to blue screen and crashed.

Uh-huh!

The geek squad at Best Buy damaged the computer before it even left the store!

The moral of the story?

Shop somewhere else, even if Lady Gaga appears in the store for photo ops, in the future.

In the final analysis, Best Buy has been deceitfully trading on the pop star's name and reputation, to lure potential victims in the door.

http://www.julianayrs.com

Illegal immigrants...Special Order 40 flies in face of common sense! Outdated law a joke...

Police Chief's deterrent for Illegal Immigration!

Bring me your humbling masses!

A few weeks ago, I was quite shocked by a  news report out of Texas that a Mayor of one of their fair cities was engaging in an all-out mean-spirited attempt to purge his town of illegal immigrants by ignoring State and Federal Laws in respect to apprehension, detainment, and deportation.

The city Official was clearly ignoring binding legal procedures (due process, for starters), and it irked me.

In the final analysis, the misguided politician has been stepping on the toes of Federal agents at U.S. Homeland Security, who have been charged with a responsibility he has been trying to usurp.

On the other hand, the Los Angeles Police Chief's strict adherance to the thirty-old law - Special Order 40 - has gone too far the other way; in fact, Chief Charlie Beck's  pig-headed approach borders on ignorance, incompetence, and a lack of foresight.

According to a Los Angeles Times editorial recently, the measure is not only controverisal, but vital.

I thoroughly disagree for a couple of reasons.

While I do not believe that the LAPD (and the Sheriff's Department) shouldn't willy-nilly target individuals at the curb of downtown streets as they pine for day work - for example - on the other hand I firmly believe that exercising a little intelligence (and common sense) during the arrest process doesn't amount to any breach of an individual's rights.

To use an analogy, let's say, an officer pulls over a motorist for driving with a broken tailgate light - and that during the course of the ticketing proedure - the officer discovers that the motorist doesn't have a license.

Should the cop ignore that fact and just issue a citation for for the brake-light violation?

No, sir!

Upon discovering that an individual being charged with a crime is an illegal alien, shouldn't the police department - as a matter of form - report the prisoner's illegal status to Homeland Security so that the Federal Government can take appropriate action (if they so desire)?

That appears to be the common-sense way to deal with the situation.

But, because a myriad of government agencies (and their officials) have continually dropped the ball in this regard over the years, the immigration problem has been allowed to reach epic proportions in this country today.

It strikes me as ludicrous that officers are being  advised by the Chief of  Police (wet behind the ears, obviously) to wantonly disregard the obvious.

Notwithstanding, the thirty-year old law is outdated, and should be sent by way of the dinosaur.

Indeed!

Because the United States is one of the most sophisticated nations in the world, capable of instituting a fool-proof system to halt illegal immigration (and surreptitious sneaks across the border), it boggles the mind to think that nothing has been accomplished in that regard.

Canada, France, and England - for starters - have managed quite nicely (thank you very much) coral the immigration problem from the get-go.

Why can't Homeland Security and the Department of Justice use a little high-tec American know-how to accomplish the same?

In the final analysis, were I a suspicious so-and-so, I'd hazard a guess that lobbyists in Washington are stalling and delaying the efforts for E-Verification - and a National ID card, too - to ultimately ensure that cheap labor is available to their penny-wise corporate masters.

And, American tax-payers be damned!

I'm all for - civil rights, due process, and what-have-you - but I also support intelligent action, common sense, and the right of  U.S. residents to demand that the flow of immigrants be through the front door (and not the back one a handful of greedy self-serving politicians would prefer).

Amen!

http://www.julianayrs.com/

Charlie Sheen...Hollywood bad boy charged with assault, menacing & criminal mischief!

Trendy Aspen ski resort lures Hollywood A-list!

Bad Boy Sheen cuts up in ritzy enclave!

There was a time when Charlie Sheen was known as the perennial (nocturnal) bad boy around Hollywood - but he cleaned up his act, landed a hit show - and has been on the slow lane to surburbia for a decade or so now.

Subsequently, it was a bit of a shocker to catch a bulletin on the news last night which reported on  the charismatic actor's shake-down at the hands of the boys in blue on Christmas day on serious charges of second-degree assault and menacing.

Both counts are felonies.

A misdemeanor charge for criminal mischief was also tacked on.

Yeah, don't forget the cherry on top, dudes!

On the heels of a 911 call (in which a so-called  victim alleged domesic violence) Aspen Police Officers arrested the star of the hit comedy -  "Two and a Half Men" - at which point he wiled away desperate hours in the Pitkin County Jail until bail was forthcoming.

Troubles at home?

A spokesperson for Mr. Sheen urged folks not to jump to conclusions.

News at 11!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Adam Lambert & Pam Anderson New Year Celebration! Paramount studios bash...

The top-heavy lusty lovely - with the wide sexy smile - is expected to take on the task of  MC (Mistress of Ceremonies), Adam Lambert will gyrate onto the stage and offer up a live! concert with a come-hither look that is sure to captivate his die-hard fans, and a posse of revellers will ring in the New Year at the stroke of midnight.

And, Paramount Studios will play host to the blow-out bash expected to be a big ticket-seller!

Although  bad- boy Lambert may be banned from prime-time TV temporarily - until he's paid his penace, at least - the thronging masses will be inclined to seek him out nonetheless (on air or not).

Notwithstanding, isn't it time Dick Clark was put out to pasture, and some young stud installed in his place to do the honors henceforth?

Ryan Seacrest appears to be a likely candidate, but how about someone with a bit of pizazz and sex appeal?

I'll put on my thinking cap on that one and get back to 'ya!

Happy New Year!

http://www.julianayrs.com