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Monday, February 28, 2011

Oscars...Starlets & Studs stumble on fashion circuit @ Kodak Theatre! Swank surprisingly feminine!



Horizontal line at flubber waist a no-no
(Virginia Madsen)








Quite a few of the fair sex alighted from sleek black limos purring at the curb on Hollywood Boulevard last night in dazzling cocktail frocks fashioned in blood-red, as their macho counterparts abandoned the peacock "look" in favor of chic black finely-cut silhouettes, and a daring fashionista-or-two took a gamble on stylish adventures which more-often-than-not came apart at the seams when the prying eyes of the paparazzi zeroed in.

In sum, the little Gold Statuette has - for the most part - taken a back seat to the fashion circuit as a rule, as savvy social-climbing starlets (and enterprising studs on their bejewelled pearly-white arms) turn out to best one-another in outfits that amount to a handful of misguided silken threads tossed over bodacious - sometimes bimbo-inspired - half-naked bods.

A chic understated look is preferable to moi, but some - like hefty Queen Latifa, for example - have tossed caution (and their considerable weight) to the wind with disastrous results.

Uh-huh!

The God-awful trend - riddled with one glaring faux pas after another - persisted on the red carpet at the 83rd Annual Oscar Award at the Kodak Theatre last evening.

Although one of the beaming hosts (Anne Hathaway) snapped up nods of approval for her pretty frothy frock - over-sized mamma's like Virginia Madsen - caused style icons to twitter on the sidelines:

"Gosh, if only the fat lady would sing! This fashion fiasco could call it a night!"

A gaggle of par-tay stalwarts sashayed down the gauntlet in get-ups - Michelle Williams and Reese Witherspoon, for starters - that flip-flopped.

Nicole Kidman was beaded, padded, and fit to be tried - by the fashion police - by golly!

Meanwhile, Helena Bonham Carter was strapping - and strapless - with scraggly "do" crowning the unsightly mixed-up mash.

On-the-other-hand, Marissa Tomei's virginal spring special was overly-designed with matronly fashion flourishes, that bogged her youthfulness down.

Gwyneth Paltrow was a sexy bombshell, alright - which left a nasty aftertaste, though - metallic as hell.

And - sigh - Melissa Leo was obviously sleep-walking in her poorly-fitting gown which appeared to be fashioned out of a bath-room curtain or two.

Annette Bening's slinky cocktail nightmare was inside-out with unsightly seams showing.
Ouch!

Halle Berry - known as "scary Berry" in divorce circles - was sparkly, however.

The town was a-buz in respect to sultry Mila Kunis, who tripped-the-light-fantastic in a showy-gown splashed up with nubile flesh, which hinted at naivety.

Hailee Steinfeld - in Royal Blue (wrinkled) fabric - was too darn matronly (if 'ya ask me!).

As to the dudes, well, James Franco couldn't hold a candle to Marilyn (or any dummy female impersonator stupid enough to try to capture her dazzling star persona on-stage-or-off).

Billy Crystal?

If the lapels on that tux were any wider, he'd take flight when the next gust of wind fluttered in, unexpectedly.

Nope not even the zesty vigor (or sexy appeal) of the great white hope - James Franco - was capable of  boosting up the boot-straps of a posse of fops, fellas!

For instance, Russell Brand's purply-hued suit - teamed with a clashing striped shirt and lifeless black tie - screamed out the obvious:

"Big bucks can't buy 'ya taste (or love, for that matter, either)."

If Billy Crystal's lapels were any wider, he would have blown away in the stratosphere next big gust of wind!

Christian Bale (winner of best supporting actor for The Fighter) was in the right corner when he elected to sport a chic black designer suit and dark tie.

But, poor grooming - and bold-faced efforts to attain a wild he-man persona - nixed the otherwise fashionably-attired effort.

Colin Firth, Zachary Levi, Justin Timberlake, Mark Buffalo, andGeoffrey Rush sported sporting black or dark grey tuxedos from popular designers such as Tom Ford or Gucci.
No wonder folks mentioned above either ended up on my Best or Worst Dressed list for 2010.

Need a reminder about "Who's Who" on the fashion victim list?

Post:  01/01/2011

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/01/julian-ayrs-ten-worst-dressed-best.html

Post: 12/29/2010

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/12/julian-ayrs-3rd-annual-worst-dressed.html

By the way, there were quite a few humorous moments during the CBS Broadcast, too.

Off-the-cuff humor - on the heels of live! stage disasters - included Hathaway's quick ad-lib about "folks needing a drink at home" - after she tripped over a best-actress-winner intro.

Meanwhile, critics compared James Franco's low-key style to that of a laid-back monologue for flicks like drug-themed comedies such as "Pineapple Express".

Did he ever actually say the word - "Dude" on air?

At times, Anne and James also poked fun at each other and the Network for their ratings-inspired folly.

"Anne, I must say you look so beautiful and so hip," Franco gushed at one point on stage.

"Thank you, James," Hathaway giggled,

"You look very appealing to a younger demographic, as well."

I expect that due to the overall dismal reaction to the Oscar extravaganza (yawn!) last night, that hosting duties will return to the predictable old farts next year.

See 'ya there!






Hillary Swank surprisingly feminine
(instead of so butch!)


Archbishop Desmond Tutu...to participate in Sermon @ Grace Cathedral! San Francisco!












As a rule, it is rare to land a scoop, when attending Church.

But, shortly after a "Contemplative Eucharist" was underway at Grace Cathedral last evening on Nob Hill, it was announced that Archbishop Desmond Tutu would be participating in a Sermon next Sunday (March 6th) at 11 a.m.

After noting that the Nobel Peace Prize-winner would be attending a closed-door session on Thursday night, the Reverend was quick to warn the parishioners about the potential pitfalls of trotting in late next week.

"Arrive early!  The pews will probably be filled at Grace Cathedral," she urged with a broad smile on her cherubic face.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu was born in 1931 in Klerksdorp (Transvaal).

The Holy Man's father was a teacher.

Not surprisingly, Tutu first trained as a teacher at Pretoria Bantu Normal College.

After graduating from the University of South Africa in 1954, Desmond toiled as a high school teacher, before his studies on theology commenced.

The charismatic leader was ordained as a priest in 1960.

From 1967 to 1972 - Tutu taught theology in South Africa - before returning to England for three years as the assistant director of a theological institute in London (England).

In 1975, the highly spiritual soul was appointed the Dean of St. Mary's Cathedral in Johannesburg (the first black to hold the position).

Tutu later became General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches - where he formulated his opinions on the importance of  observing "democratic just societies without racial division" - which touted:

1. equal civil rights for all
2. the abolition of South Africa's passport laws
3. a common system of education
4. the cessation of forced deportation from South Africa to the so-called "homelands"

The South African Council of Churches is a contact organization for the churches of South Africa and functions as a National Committee for the World Council of Churches.

By the way, if you've never attended an evening service at Grace Cathedral, give it the old college try!

Last night's scripture-reading was particularly uplifting.

In particular, I found that the "sounding" of the bell" - which chimed periodically throughout the service - resonated to the core of my being.

The "Alleluia" refrain - sung to perfection by the choir and parishioners - caused hearts, minds, and spirits to soar joyously!

The Contemplative Eucharist is calendared for Sundays @ 6 p.m.

Background Feature

Post: 01/20/2008

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/01/grace-cathedralsan-francisco-house-of.html

See 'ya there!
(God Willing)

LOCATION

Grace Cathedral
1100 California Street
San Francisco, CA
94108

415.749.6300

info@gracecathedral.org



Fault line in Mew Zealand

Grace accepting donations for New Zealand Earthquake Victims!



Sunday, February 27, 2011

Walt Whitman...In Paths Untrodden! Calamus & LBGT cultural exhibit! San Francisco Library!









Skylight Gallery @ San Francisco Library


Walt Whitman has always been a beloved poet who impacted many lives over the decades he strode this mortal coil penning poetry and prose.

Now, on the 150th anniversary of the 1st publication of Whitman's - "homo-affectional" poem titled "Calamus" - the San Francisco Main Library staff have installed a thought-provoking tribute to the man.

"This exhibition articulates the place and importance of "Calamus" in LGBT culture and draws a connection between the poems and the creation of the modern LGBT community (with an emphasis on the Radical Fairie Movement)," according to the curators.

With the discerning artful use of text, photos, antiquarian books and newspapers - the exhibit seeks to fathom up Whitman’s vision of the “love of comrades” - and the social and political role he saw it playing in that larger project (the creation of America).

LOCATION

Gay & Lesbian Center
Exhibit Space
San Francisco Main Library
100 Larkin St.
San Francisco, CA
94102

(415) 557-4400

DATES

March 1st - May 19th
(2011)





Women Photographers...on exhibit @ Macy's! Women's History Month!




 







Macy's at Herald Square in New  York is celebrating Women's History Month with an exhibition of eclectic photographs by female photographers!

In tandem with the wall framed perspectives, the top retailer will also stream special features via satellite, that examine women and their achievements around the globe.

The dazzling display will feature works by emerging artists, as well as established lensers, juried by Karen Marshall.

Marshall is a freelance photographer who rose to prominence in cultural circles by documenting American social issues over the past few years.

Although the much-ballyhooed exhibition kicks off on March 2nd on the 8th floor gallery at Herald Square, the following evening there will also be a tony reception where fans may mix-and-mingle with the artists.

LOCATION

Macy's
(Herald Square)
8th Floor
151 West 34th Street

New York, NY 10001

212/695-4400

DATES

March 2nd - March 23rd

INFO

www.pwponline.org

www.macy's.org









Saturday, February 26, 2011

Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital...a threat to patients! Dr. Sassan Davoudi a Quack! Hazardous facilities! Wrong diagnosis!




A coat of paint may cover a multitude of sins!






If you're thinking about heading over to the "Emergency" Department at Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital at 1300 N. Vermont Street in Hollywood, you may want to reconsider the trek if you value your health and well-being.

Patients have complained about hazardous facilities, incompetent "quacks" such as Dr. Sassan Davoudi and Dr. Joseph M. Nussbaum, bumbling Nurses who bruise patients because of sloppy handi-work and a devil-may-care attitude, and dishonest misrepresentations about the Hospital's "mission" to provide quality care.

For instance, when one ailing individual limped into the lobby of emergency complaining of severe chest pains, they were forced to cool their heels for over two 1/2 hours before any hospital personnel made any professional effort to hustle them back to an examination "cubby-hole" for an EKG or timely X-ray to determine the severity of the problem.

In contrast - hospitals in the general vicinity in Los Angeles - usually give a green light and special priority to potential heart-attack victims (for obvious reasons).

When an individual is finally admitted after long delays at the run-down facility (and an excessive amount of paperwork has been shoved in their pain-ridden faces to fill out) they are subjected to a wild hair-raising ride in a wheelchair outside - sometimes on an icy cold eve at an ungodly hour - to a make-shift X-ray examination room which has been set up slap-dab in the parking lot behind a rusty chain-link fence in a cramped trailer.

Once on the threshold, the inexperienced Nurse proceeds to precariously hoist the patient up onto a crudely-crafted ramp at the door of the rickety shelter, where they are rolled inside for a chest and/or body scan.

Until Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital erects a structure (indoors) that meets the building codes required by California's State Medical Board (and City Officials) patients will continue to be vulnerable to the potentially dangerous hazards.

Talk about negligence and a wanton disregard for patient safety!

In fact, one nurse confessed that one bleak night, he broke a toe after tripping over debris scattered on the pathway to the poorly-constructed outdoors lab.

Elsewhere on the premises, after a few vials of blood were helter-skelter drawn from another patient (which resulted in unsightly bruises on their arms), they were solemnly informed that they were suffering from diabetes.

When the charge noted there had never been any history of the ailment in their family - or even a hint of symptoms either - the inexperienced hospital worker simply shrugged and uttered under their breath in a hushed tone:

"Maybe your blood sugar is just high tonight for some reason."

At this juncture, the diagnosis was deleted from the patent's medical record, with little ado.

Say what?

It was evident to the patient, at this point, that the technician was unqualified for their post!

But, the shoddy unprofessional conduct did not end there, not by a long shot!

One patient languished in "Emergency" for ten hours or so, before the Hospital staff finally wheeled him up to a room outfitted for two.

The sorry individual was suddenly aghast to find themselves dropped on a bed and left to reckon with an obviously mentally-deranged patient who screamed out incoherently at the top of his lungs every few minutes or so.

Then, the physician on duty - Dr. Sassan Davoudi (a bizarre-looking man with bushy eyebrows and eyes that blinked every second-or-two like a spooky old owl) - stumbled in looking for all-the-world like some dishevelled bum.

To make matters worse, the physician was unable to speak fluent English, or effectively communicate to the startled patient in a calm professional manner.

On one occasion, when Davoudi opened up his yap, he barked out orders to the patient in a disturbing demeaning fashion.

"Stand up," he demanded.

When the patient attempted to carry out the demand, he lost his balance, and fell plunk-down onto the bed unmade bed.

In spite of the obvious, the doctor bellowed out more orders, with little regard for the well-being of the patient grasping for oxygen on the bed.

In the midst of attempting to walk across the hospital room - as instructed - the Doctor suddenly waved the sick patient off.

"You're okay. Get dressed. Go home," he growled at the shocked patient, before he strolled out the door never to be seen again!

Then, the situation turned from bad to worse.

For example, when a male nurse briskly waltzed in with discharge papers (and a curt demand that he exit the hospital room immediately), the disoriented patient informed the employee that he was too weak to comply with the request.

At this point, on the heels of a call to Financial Services, a rude African American woman by the name of Gabriela Duran-Lopez (with no noticeable manners or sense of professionalism) strode into the room and warned the patient that if they did not get dressed - and exit - they'd be charged $2,500.00 for an overnight stay.

"Cash," she barked at the startled patient.

Shocking behaviour - especially when you consider the "Mission" statement the Hospital Director has set forth in the patient manual bedside - at Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital.

It reads as follows:

"For more than 80 years, Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center has been helping the Hollywood community and surrounding areas, serving your medical needs (!) and those of your loved ones. 

Our medical center strives to distinguish itself as a leading health care provider, recognized for providing quality (!), innovative (you betcha!) care in a professional (!) and compassionate (!) manner.

What a load of bullsh**, eh?

But, the shocking conduct of staff at the Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital didn't end after the demand for cash was made.

Unable to comply with the request - the patient humbly asked that he be permitted to stay over - until friends (or family) could arrange to pick him up bright-and-early the next morning.

When Ms. Duran-Lopez noted that she would call Social Services for a quick resolution to the problem, the nastiness escalated, go figure!

Angered by what she perceived as a refusal to leave the premises willingly, a nasty butch-looking woman - by the name of Clarissa (from Social Services) - stormed into the room armed with threats.

"If you don't get dressed and leave immediately, security will escort you to the door," she growled angrily.

Calls to Supervisor - Linda Kaye - were left unreturned!

Outrageous unprofessional behaviour when you consider the Social Services blurb in the patient guide which stated as follows:

Social Services

The Social Services Department assists all patients with emotional, social, and economic problems related to their healthcare (!).

The Department's mission is to provide consultation to family members, caregivers, and significant others to ensure ongoing support vital to a patient's well being (!!!).

Special focus and attention are given to patient and families who are at high risk for problems of adjustments, safety, economic hardship, life-threatening illness, and other severe psychological stresses related to health condition. 

Several reasons a patient may need Social Services include:

*Acute grieving, depression, and anxiety
*Suicidal/Homicidal ideation, gravely disabled
*No known family or support system
*Victims of abuse, physical/emotional/sexual neglect/violence by caretakers
*Family behaviour adversely affecting patient welfare and care (!!!)
*Older adults (70+) with multiple physical needs and psychological needs
*homelessness (!!!)
*Substance abuse

Bottom line?

Lies! Lies! Lies!

It's all a public relations ploy, dude.

Coincidentally, I just read a report in the San Francisco Chronicle this past week, that the early discharge of patients is becoming a major problem - enough so, in fact - that the State Medical Board may step in to rectify the growing problem.

For example, it was announced that any Hospital that releases a patient prematurely - who is later forced to return to emergency for additional care - would be levied a penalty.

I am in accord!

In fact, in view of the breaches of professional ethics at Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital (formerly known as the Queen of Angels), I expect their facility will be at the top of the list!

In the final analysis, it is also evident from the aforementioned facts, that the Nurses at the Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital are negligent, unprofessional, and derelict in their duty when it comes to fulfilling their "mission".

In fact, their staff are a menace to the community.

Avoid this medical facility like the plague!

http://www.thetattler.biz





Patient care?

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Robert Mapplethorpe...art aquisition boosts West Coast cultural scene! S & M nudes & sculpted flowers!







Flower series a fave pour moi!




Due to a concerted effort on the part of two prestigious Art Institutes - the J. Paul Getty Trust and the respected Los Angeles Museum of Art - a coveted cache of Robert Mapplethorpe works have been scooped up for a song for permanent exhibit on the West Coast.

A coup - especially when you consider the fact that the controversial artist's haunts (when he was very-much-alive and making waves around the country with startling - at times titillating - images that were primarily rooted deep in tony Gallery environs east of the Rockies.

The two upstart organizations cobbled together approximately 200 unique pieces - with a major thrust on exceptional works featured in the celebrated XYZ Portfolio - which spotlight sculpted flower stills and a select series of erotic (sometimes downright nasty) nudes that reveal Mapplethorpe's healthy lust (and longing) for the male physique.

The flowers - fluttered - and singled out Mapplethorpe's uncanny flair for impeccable uncluttered design.

On the other hand, at the opposite end of the spectrum, arousing S & M nudes devoid of warmth - and clinical in approach, at times - hinted the visionary was a surrealist at heart.

To round out the collection, the curators snapped up an archive emboldened by 120,000 negatives, 3500 Polaroids (used to prep canvasses during the creative process), and a smattering of personal and professional letters that afford insight into Mapplethorpe's complex psyche.

Art lovers - and music fans - are particularly intrigued over the love letters fired back-and-forth between two improbable bedfellows (Mapplethorpe & rocker Patti Smith).

Stay posted for news of an upcoming thought-provoking exhibit surely on the way!

See 'ya there!

http://www.thetattler.biz




Patti Smith & Mapplethorpe rocked!

Art of Motion Picture Costume Design...timely dazzling display Oscar-ready! FIDM Museum!












How timely!

Folks zipping in to town this weekend to scout down a perch with the specific aim of getting a glitzy eyeful of the red carpet Oscar celebrations at the Kodak Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard on Sunday afternoon - also have a golden opportunity to get up-close-and personal with a dazzling array of exquisite movie costumes on display at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) in the downtown core of the thriving Mmetropolis on South Grand Avenue.

The celebrated organization is honoring their 19th year in operation on the West Coast.

The one-of-a-kind collection includes delightful ensembles crafted for noteworthy feature films such as - "Inception",  "Alice in Wonderland", "Wolfman", and "Shutter Island" - to name a prestigious few.

The aesthetic fashion tease may inspire a posse of film fans to surf over to the design facility's well-designed website for a gander at a bevy of unique outfits offered up in rich multi-media and on streaming video!

Project Runway, anyone?

The Los Angeles-based campus houses both a "Permanent" and a "Study Collection" which consists of over 12,000 exciting costumes, chic accessories, and a myriad of lush textiles from the 18th Century through the present day (including those whipped up for film and theatre productions around the globe).

The stunning well-rounded exhibition is one of the largest of its kind in the United States, in fact.

A handful of the top designers with splendid costumers on display include those by Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, and Lacroix.

The Museum also boasts a period Hollywood Costume Collection on loan from the City of Los Angeles (Department of Recreation and Parks).

RESERVATIONS

213.623.5821
(Ext # 3367)

The Annette Green Perfume Museum, the only one of its kind in the U.S., is on display permanently and dedicated to the historical and cultural role of fragrance around the world.

A smattering of the scents are situated on the 2nd floor of the institute.

Paris Hilton eat your heart out, eh?

The "Mission" of FIDM is to provide students, educators, scholars, and industry personnel with a costume and textile resource so that they are able to explore (and examine) the role of costumes and textiles in their relationship to society and history.

The collection is sustained with standard museum practices for continued acquisition and preservation of costumes and textiles with a focus on the development of education, exhibition, outreach, and volunteer programs.

History

The FIDM Museum & Library, Inc. was founded in 1978.

Since January 1999, the museum operations have been separate from the Library, in order to offer up more specialized care and attention to the specific needs of the costume collection and museum-trained personnel (who have since been recruited for staff positions).

LOCATION

919 South Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA

http://www.fidmmuseum.org

HOURS OF OPERATION

Tuesday - Saturday
(thru April 8th / 2011)

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

See 'ya there!

http://www.thetattler.biz





Popular FIDM exhibits!

Rufus Wainwright...guest appearance @ screening of A.I.D.S. Documentary! Castro Theatre in San Francisco! February 25th!




 



Popular Rufus Wainwright!

 




Friday evening, Rufus Wainwright - a much-sought-after stage performer and recording artist - is slated to attend a screening of "We Were Here" at the historic Castro Theatre in picturesque San Francisco.

The insightful documentary - directed by David Weissman - zeroes in on the perspective of five locals who witnessed the outbreak of the A.I.D.S. pandemic and the havoc it wrought on the Castro neighborhood (and elsewhere) at the height of the shocking crisis.

According to the producers, by the time the killer virus was identified - and subsequently under control - more than 15,000 San Franciscans were felled (mostly gay men).

The benefit for the Shanti Project and Project Inform has been causing quite a buzz in recent days.

Needless to say, the unveiling at the Art Deco Venue, is expected to sell-out.

In addition to Wainwright and the director - story-tellers featured in the poignant documentary (Paul Boneberg, Guy Clark, Eileen Glutzer, Daniel Goldstein, and Ed Wolf ) are scheduled to appear for a Q & A.

Catch the flick if you can!

LOCATION

Castro Theatre
429 Castro Street
San Francisco, CA

SCREENING INFO

VIP Reception
6 p.m.

Film Screening
7:30 p.m.

Q & A
9 p.m.

TICKETS
$25.00 - $100.00

CONTACT

http://www.shanti.org/
415.674.4700

See 'ya there!

http://www.thetattler.biz




Documentarian David Weissman

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Dark Secrets...seduced by older sister playing Doctor! The healing process is painful!








For the first time in years, I suddenly recalled an unpleasant memory from my childhood, which unexpectedly loomed large in my consciousness yesterday afternoon.

Out-of-the-blue one day, about fifty years ago, my older sister lured me in to her bedroom to play "Doctor".

For some inexplicable reason, the almost-surreal fleshy images of "Doreen" naked on the bed - urging me to stroke her vagina - triggered a flood of emotions difficult to wrestle with.

Perhaps, it was the confession of a Senator (who was sexually assaulted when he was a youth) that jolted the sick memories loose from the inner reaches of my mind - to the upper realms of my waking consciousness now.

Just maybe, I've unknowingly been scarred by the seduction for decades, oblivious to their negative impact on my overall psyche or even my day-to-day personal and professional relationships.

And, what of my self-esteem!

Was it adversely affected, too, without my knowledge?

The cloud that looms over me now has caused me to reflect - and seek healing - in a bid to free myself of the shackles that once bound me 'til now.

Meanwhile, in spite of the fact I was separated from my family when I was about ten or eleven years old, my sister contacted me recently to strike up ties once again after stumbling on my blog on the Internet.

When I failed to respond to her urgent messages, she fired off an angry response.

"I am your sister, you know."

Personally, I feel that just because you are born into a family, does not mean you are required to remain in that family circle, or carry on a charade.

Notwithstanding, God took me by the hand, and led me down another path long ago.

In the final analysis, I hope that parents will teach their children to be careful not to overstep their bounds, or betray a sacred family trust.

Amen!

http://www.thetattler.biz





The innocence of youth!

National Clam Chowder Day...San Francisco eateries offer up specials!




 







Bay area eateries are gearing up for National Clam Chowder Day by offering specials sure to get locals and tourists alike inside their doors this weekend.

In San Francisco, for example, Boudin Bakery is celebrating on Friday with a buy-one get-one-free dish.

To take advantage of the discount, consumers are required to surf by their web site on-or-after Wednesday, and print out a coupon to guarantee a stab at their scrumptious clam chowder in-a-bread-bowl menu item.

INFO

http://www.boudinbakery.com/

Meanwhile  - the 30th Annual Clam Chowder Cook-off and Festival kicks off in Santa Cruz on the boardwalk - Saturday (February 26th).

Admission is free!

But, tasting kits are priced at 8 bucks a shot.

Over 85 chefs will be offering up tasty dishes to sample!

INFO

http://www.beachboardwalk.com/clamchowder2011-ClamProg.pdf

Spenger's Grott - in Berkeley - will celebrate on Friday between the hours of 11:30 and 10 p.m.

A cup of their award-winning chowder may be scoffed down for the lowly-sum of $1.21.

INFO

http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com/Locations/berkeleycalifornia/FourthSt.aspx

See 'ya there!

http://www.thetattler.biz/




Delicious chowder in bread bowl!

Trevor Bayne...rocky-road inspired Ice-Cream Sundae! Daytona 500 star celebrates at Ghiradelli Square! San Francisco!









What is the world's favorite flavor?

The answer was on the tip of Trevor Bayne's tongue yesterday, when he swaggered into Ghiradelli Square in San Francisco, to whip up a scrumptious mouth-watering ice-cream Sundae in his honor.

Chocolate, of course!

Well, when it came to the studly race-car driver (who just snagged the Daytona 500), for starters!

Shortly after the man-of-the-hour was ushered into the historic tourist site, he quickly rustled up the main ingredients for his dessert-of-choice, which consisted of generous scoops of rich chocolate, a dollop or two of delicious rocky-road, and flavorful chocolate chip ice-cream - topped with all the delicious trimmings such as whipped cream, a cherry on top - you name it!

Since Bayne roared over the finish line this past week - the youngest driver ever to nab the coveted prize (at a mere twenty years-of-age) - he has been on a wild merry-go-round that has taken the kid from ESPN studios in Connecticut, to Chicago, and then on to the Bay area where he alighted amidst a lot of fanfare.

Fans couldn't help but spy the sparkler on his finger, either!

Of course, I am referring to the pricey Daytona 500 ring, he scooped up for his efforts on the slippery-slope to success.

The sexy circuit competitor joked that he wears the novelty item to bed when he tucks in each starry-eyed night.

"I was scared I'd wake up in the middle of the night and it would all be a dream. I left it on so I could look down and see it."

And, you thought your life was a potential nightmare, eh?

Congrats Trevor!






Fans may snap up Trevor Bayne Sundae @ Giradelli Square!

Lindsay Lohan...stern Judge threatens jail time for troubled starlet!









Poor Lindsay Lohan!

This morning, the world of the naughty high-profile starlet came tumbling down, and she was suddenly left in a lurch between-a-rock & a-hard-place!

Uh-huh!

When the drug-addled tabloid-plagued beauty appeared before a crusty old bench-warmer (a hanging Judge?) bright-and-early (to answer to what some are calling a "trumped-up" felony charge arising from the alleged theft of a pricey one-of-a-kind necklace from a Venice storefront jeweller) she was in for an unexpected shock.

The Superior Court Judge - presiding over the much-publicized case - threatened that he would send the pretty actress (with a penchant for dressing inappropriately for court) to jail if she accepted a plea bargain offered by the prosecutor's office.

Although the terms of that deal were not made public, Judge Keith Schwartz underscored from the bench, that Lohan would have to plead guilty or "no contest" to a charge that she "lifted" a piece of merchandise without paying the ticket price.

If Lohan sauntered into court expecting a slap on the wrist, her expectations were not only sky-high - but, without doubt - unrealistic.

"This case involves jail time," bench-warmer Judge Schwartz gruffly informed the "Mean Girls" actress as she sat stone-faced next to legal counsel.

"If you plead in front of me - if this case resolves in front of me - you are going to jail. Period. It may be an issue as to the amount of time."

The surly old adjudicator sure was high on drama, wasn't he?

Period!

However, there is a glimmer of hope for Ms. Lohan.

Schwartz noted (no bones about it) - that if Lohan rejected the plea bargain - the case would be set for a preliminary hearing in front of another judge.

Will another Jurist show more mercy?

The light-fingered sexpot must cough up a decision by her next court appearance which is slated for March 10th.

News at 11!

http://www.thetattler.biz/




Pretty is as pretty does!

Matcha..Sacred Offerings @ Asian Art Museum! Balinese music, exotic dance & exquisite costumes! February 24th!











The Asian Art Museum is tossing another popular mixer on the evening of Thursday, February 24th, in downtown San Francisco.

Cultural enthusiasts will not only be able to mingle with high-profile guests in the Art community-at-large, but have also the rare golden opportunity to catch a sneak preview of an exquisite upcoming exhibition:

Bali: Art, Ritual & Performance

The dazzling soiree will feature dances - the kind that focused on refined stylized motions of daily life in Bali - which were a gift to visiting deities during seasonal festivals.

In addition, there will be - enchanting music by the Gadung Kasturi ensemble, exquisite costumes, and fanciful displays - similar to those offered up to Divine guests and village audiences in ancient times.

The hosts are also inviting attendees to craft their own sacred offerings out of palm leaves, as they sip over cocktails, and nibble on scrumptious finger-foods!

Bali has long held a special place in the Western imagination, not only for its reputation as a tropical paradise, but for its artistic culture.

The - "Bali: Art, Ritual, Performance" - brings the art and artists of this unique Indonesian island to the Bay area - so that locals and tourists alike may experience firsthand its culture, beliefs, and practices.

The 131 artworks on view (many borrowed from international collections and never before seen in the U.S.) range from simple - yet deftly woven images of the rice Goddess - to elaborately carved and gilded chairs.

There will be puppetry, gamelan performances, masked dances - and so-much-more - to provide a museum experience as mesmerizing as Bali itself.

The Asian Art Museum is the exclusive venue for this exhibition.

See 'ya there!

INFO & TICKETS

http://www.asianart.org/matcha.com





Ritual Costume!

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Maverick Surf Contest...fizzles out on West Coast! No waves, Moon Doggie!








One of the West Coast's most-anticipated outdoors events - the Maverick Surf Contest - appears to be fizzling into oblivion this year due to the capricious nature of the weather.

In February, surfers are usually excitedly belting out - "Surf's Up" - as the mammoth waves crash the picturesque California coastline (at Half-moon Bay & elsewhere) in stunning God's country.

But, the dudes are SOL this season, Moon Doggie!

Will par-tay hearty spring break ever be the same without the wild beach soiree?

Golly!

As the surf gently rolls into the shore, folks are more inclined to take a stroll, or catch some rays!

But, before you can say - winter squall - things might just turn around.

Stay posted for updates, eh?

Later!

http://www.thetattler.biz




Surf dudes hang ten for the big one!

Charlie Sheen...Giant's pitcher Brian Wilson invited to par-tay hearty! Major League stink!



Don't play with me
(cause 'ya play with fire)







Hollywood's bad-boy, Charlie Sheen, fueled up his private jet (in spite of the soaring gas prices at the pumps in recent days) so that his pilot could whisk baseball Giant-great - Brian Wilson (the wild bearded one) - to par-tay at his tony Hollywood Hills estate over the weekend.

A posse of other "Diamond" athletes were on the prestigious guest list, too.

When probed by one reporter about the strange bedfellows, a manager for the Giants just shrugged.

"Johnson is not the norm, when it comes to baseball players," he uttered up in so many words!

Indeed, the talented pitcher obviously dances to the tune of a different drummer.

Critics on the frenzied media circuit snickered over the broadcast airwaves over the weekend - that instead of being seduced by glamorous sexy hookers and treated to mounds of nose candy - that a screening of a flick (no, not a porno, just "Major League") was the party favor offered up.

Fans of Sheen (are there any out there?) may recall that the troubled drug-addled actor starred in a couple of the off-the-wall comedies.

Uh-huh!

I speculate that conniving Charlie was out-to-bend a few arms of the athletes in tow, with the specific aim of landing a couple of the studs for cameo roles cameo roles in the 4th installment due to lens in the near future.

News at 11!

http://www.thetattler.biz





Big-time operator, Sheen!

Man's Laws...quote by Julian Ayrs!








Man's laws
are not
God's laws

Always
be mindful
of this!


Julian Ayrs
Divine Grace
A Collection of Poems




God's mysterious ways...the gift of healing! Grace Cathedral in San Francisco!




 




Healing Hands!




Once again, God's mysterious ways have astounded me!

For instance, the night before last, I stumbled across a book on "Healing" (by chance?) based on the teachings of an Eastern Master which ring just as true today as when they were first published a half-a-century ago by a San Francisco publishing house!

In fact, as I read the spiritual passages therein - I was immediately struck by the fact that the ideas set forth by the authentic Guru - were along-the-lines of a handful of philosophical musings gleaned from the yearnings of my own blessed heart over the past decade or two.

In particular, I found the theories - that articulated on the principles behind "healing", "purification", and "magnetism" - resonated with truth to the very core of my being!

Needless to say, I was not at all surprised when I ran smack-dab into a mystical experience bright-and-early the next morning - and a brush with the Lord - as I trekked up California Street into the tony environs of Nob Hill.

Indeed!

Shortly after I strolled into GRACE CATHEDRAL (one of my favorite Churches in the Bay area), I was suddenly bathed in pool of rainbow colors by virtue of a stream of light shining through a stained-glass window from on high above me.

On the heels of the cleansing awakening, the Church bells suddenly rang out!

"For whom do the bells toll?" I wondered to myself.

At this juncture, it came to my attention that a service was about to commence in a small Chapel at the front of the spectacular Cathedral.

I quickly ushered myself into a seat just as the Priest began to utter up the first words of the scriptures to the solemn parishioners humbly gathered there.

Lo & Behold!

Subject matter in the stray book on "Healing" (which I came across the evening before) was the focus of her Sermon at Grace!

In fact, at one point - the Priest asked if anyone recalled a little tune with lyrics that went something like - "this little light of mine".

Within a few precious seconds, I found myself singing out.

"This little light of mine. I'm going to let it shine!"

In response, the Priest nodded her joyous approval from the podium up front!

In a round-about-way, my ambition to sing in the Church was fulfilled at long last.

Offers for this tenor to sing for his supper in the future are graciously accepted!

Contact

i.julian@yahoo.com

After the service, a man spied the book on healing in my hand, and trotted up to quiz me.

"What is that you are reading there?"

Suddenly, I found myself giving a brief dissertation on the power of "healing".

"Did you know that if you open up your heart, you can heal the world?" I found myself blurting out.

It hit me like a thunderbolt.

God was bestowing upon me the gift of healing!

Amen!




Holy Spirit is present!

Godliness...quote by Julian Ayrs!







Cleanliness
 is
next
to
Godliness

So,
Make every good effort
to wash away
the impurities
of the heart
daily!


Julian Ayrs
Divine Grace
Collection of Poems
San Francisco
(2011)


Nicole Kidman...San Francisco film shoot seeks Spanish-looking extras! March casting!








Producers for Nicole Kidman's new flick - to be shot in the San Francisco Bay area - are seeking Spanish-looking extras.

Beau Bonneau casting is seeking males 18 to 40 - with fair to medium complexions, dark hair and eyes, and lean physiques - to play soliders in the background.

The shoot dates are slated for March 11th, 14th, and the 15th.

Interested actors should contact the casting office.

INFO

Web Inquiries
www.beaubonneaucasting.com

Telephone
415.346.2278

Good luck, eh?

http://www.thetattler.biz





Flick to be shot in Bay area!

Glee...racy scenes with nudity cause uproar! Parental guidance?





An uproar erupted this past week when racy images - featuring naked nubile young flesh and binge-drinking - spewed out over the broadcast airwaves in a promo promoting an upcoming episode of the popular night-time hit GLEE.

Has the ground-breaking bill-of-fare gone too far in its bid to snare ratings during the family hour?

Tune in tonight - and take a gander at the smutty material that may be corrupting the youth of today - according to a posse of critics.

Parental guidance suggested!

http://www.thetattler.biz/





Nudity required!