Oprah Winfrey...packin' it in! Cable waits in the wings with baited talk-show breath...

Hold on a sec, precious!

Oprah Winfrey - the undisputed Queen of the talk-show fest - is going to pack it in after opening up her yap non-stop (without gargling or gagging once) for the past twenty-four years.

The popular day-time hostess swears that her proposed exit from mainstream TV's evil clutches next year is a voluntary one - calculated to ensure that she alights gracefully from her powerful mid-day perch on network heaven - while she is at the top of her game.

In my estimation, Oprah finally conceded in her heart of all hearts, that a decline in popularity lurks in the shadows ahead, in the event she lingers on.

Events that unfolded this past year appear to signal that little inevitability.

For the first time since the cattle-rancher fiasco reared its ugly head a scant few years ago, Oprah was the brunt of a lot of nasty jokes, bad press, and biting criticism from the media, the public-at-large, and a posse of once-devoted fans for a myriad of scandalous reasons.

In respect to the Barack Obama endorsement for the presidency, for starters,.

For example - when the feisty talk-show host (prone to give away luxury cars at the drop-of-a-hat to win over freeloaders and twist arms of the high-and-mighty) first stepped into the political arena to throw her weight (which was considerable) behind Barack Obama's bid for the White House - a bunch of loud-mouthed opponents cried out bloody-murder.

The way the presidential candidate trotted around behind Oprah like a faithful little puppy dog was downright embarrassing - undignified - to say the least.

Oprah sleeping in the Lincoln bedroom?

No way, Jose.

Others got on the - "down with the talk-show diva" bandwagon - when the ever-elastic Oprah began touting new-age heatlh remedies not formally recognized as legitimate medical treatments by reputable doctors or even the FDA.

To some Americans, Oprah was starting to sound like a cheesey snake-oil salewoman, with a nasty overbite

At Friday's taping - for good reason - Oprah elected to cite the reasons she was allegedly closing down shop to viewers directly (in a bold-faced effort to quell any rumors flying-round town)

"After much prayer and months of careful thought, I have decided that next season, season 25, will be the last season of  "The Oprah Winfrey Show," she stated matter-of-fact with nary a crocodile tear.

"Over the next couple of days, you may hear a lot of speculation in the press about why I am making this decision now (well, yeah!)...and that will mostly be conjecture."

Oprah, just invite me over to the manse for the weekend, and I'm sure I'll be able to fathom things out!

Before there was an opportunity to respond to my offer, though, the portly matron was egged on by her handlers - no doubt - to toss in a few more newsbites for the incredulous to chew on for a nail-biting nano-second or two.

"So why walk away and make next season the last? Here is the real reason: I love this show," she clucked wholeheartedly to the rapt live audience in tow.

"This show has been my life. And I love it enough to know when it's time to say good-bye. Twenty-five years feels right in my bones, and it feels right in my spirit. It's the perfect number -  the exact right time. So I hope that you will take this 18-month ride with me right through to the final show."

Well, as long as you toss in a luxury automobile now and then, for old-times sake, girl!

Is it all a ploy to coax bigger bucks from the brass in the executive suite next contract talks?

According to Harpo Productions (the company that produces the Oprah Show currently) she "...plans to appear and participate in new programming for "OWN: The Opray Winfrey Network"...a 24-hour cable network that reflects her vision, values, and interests."

The project has been set for production for January 2011, according to the terse release.

Sounds like a losing proposition to me!

Winfrey thanked her viewers for sticking with her for almost a quarter of a century at that juncture.

"These years with you, our viewers, have enriched my life beyond all measure," she said. "And you all have graciously invited me into your living rooms, into your kitchens, and into your lives. And for some of you long time Oprah viewers, you have literally grown up with me - we've grown together."

And apart, dahlink!

You became too haughty and big for your britches for me to stay tuned in, Oprah - in my estimation - so there!

"So I just wanted to say that whether you've been here with me from the beginning or you came on board last week, I want you all to know that my relationship with you is one that I hold very dear. And your trust in me, the sharing of your precious time every day with me has brought me the greatest joy I have ever known."

And, blah blah blah, as we say in the blog industry!!!

Actually, Shakespeare said it best:

"Parting is such sweet sorrow."

Bad hair day for Barack's sugar momma!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Werner Herzog...to officiate @ Berlin Film Festival! Post triggers surge of hits for respected director of Bad Lieutenant...

Just the other day, I posted a notice on Werner Herzog's new release - "The Bad Lieutenant" - which opened in wide release in the United States to rave reviews this past week.

Within hours - there was surge of hits on my personal web site (http://www.julianayrs.com/) - from far-flung locales overseas such as Germany, the Netherlands, and England as die-hard fans scoured the web site for delicious tidbits of news to gobble up!

A few weeks ago, the same phenomenon occurred when I posted an announcement that Mr. Herzog (one of the key directorial figures behind the New German Cinema in the 1960's & 1970's) would attend a book signing here in West Hollywood.

Post:  07/30/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/07/werner-herzogto-sign-conquest-offering.html

Now that it has been announced that Mr. Herzog will head up the Jury at the much-anticipated annual Berlin Film Festival, I expect there will be more frenzied searches to pin down the man-of-the-hour.

Berlin Film Festival: Feb. 11 thru Feb. 21

Herzog was born in Munich to Dietrich Herzog and Elizabeth Stipetic.

When he just a boy, his parents elected to reside in a tiny Bavarian Village in the Chiemgau Alps (Sachrang) for a duration of a dozen years or so, until their eventual migration back to big city environs (Munich) where Hezog was undoubtedly impacted at a tender age.

Although Herzog has tended to focus on feature film projects over his illustrious five-decade-long career, he is also known as a keen documentarian.

The respected director is known for using people from the locality in which he is shooting - to ultimately - benefit from what he refers to an "ecstatic truth" (accomplished by having his subjects play themselves).

Intriguing!

Herzog's first major award was the "Silver Bear" for his first feature film "Signs of Life".

Another Werner classic - Nosferatu the Vampyre -  was nominated for a Golden Bear (1979).

Prior to those honors, Herzog won a "Special Jury Prize" award for "The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser" (known as the prestigious Silver Palm) at the Cannes Film Festival in 1975.

Other films directed by Herzog which were nominated for Golden Palm Awards include offerings such as "Woyzeck" and the much-loved "Where the Green Ants Dream".

Other world-renowned film festivals gave Herzog the nod, too, over the years: the César Awards (Aguirre, The Wrath of God), the Emmy Awards (Little Dieter Needs to Fly), the European Film Awards (My Best Fiend) and the Venice Film Festival (Scream of Stone and The Wild Blue Yonder).

To name a precious few!

The down-to-earth gutsy director has quite a sense of humor, too.

For example - he once vowed to eat his shoe if filmmaker Errol Morris completed the movie project on pet cemeteries that he had been working on - in order to motivate and inspire Morris who appeared to be dragging his feet un-necessarily on the project.

In 1978 when the film "Gates of Heaven" premiered - true to his word - Werner Herzog cooked and publicly ate his shoe.

Later, the highly-publicized shenanigans were incorporated into a short documentary:

 Werner Herzog Eats His Shoe (by Les Blank)

With tongue firmly in cheek, Herzog expressed the hope that the symbolic act would serve to encourage anyone ever having difficulty completing a project, and then some.

In recent months, his off-beat sensibilities reared their ugly head once again when he noted at one Q & A session, that he was inclined to title his new feature "Bad Lieutenant" (starring Nicolas Cage) the "Bad Ass" Lieutenant instead (because it suited his wicked side to do so).

No matter what career path Herzog heads down in the future, it sure will be a joy to go along for the ride!

http://www.julianayrs.com

The Hurt Locker...intense flawed film! Director Bigelow interviewed by LA TIMES writer Kenneth Turan...

The "Hurt Locker" is an intense gritty drama that tosses the spotlight on elite bomb specialists and the dramatic conditions they toil through daily on the war-torn battlefields of Iraq.

For me, the screening last night under the auspices of the Los Angeles Times "Envelope" series was a sort-of two-part adventure in respect to the well-crafted (but flawed) project that was handily-directed by capable Kathryn Bigelow (financed by foreign investors overseas).

Several months ago, when "Hurt Locker" was first slated to screen at a Festival in Dallas, I interviewed Ms. Bigelow on the red carpet just prior to the unveiling of her rivetting foray into the inner sanctum of a handful of dedicated men who perform miracles daily in the line of duty for their country (USA).

Due to a scheduling conflict, I was forced to pass on the screening that night, but thanks to "Envelope" and the Landmark Theatre, I was not only able to catch up, but also mull over Bigelow's responses to questions fielded to her by Film critic Kenneth Turan when the floodlights went up at the end of the gut-wrenching film.

For the most part, "Hurt" is an ambitious project which keeps theatre-goers on the edge of their seats.

However, the intense thriller is flawed, so it falls short.

For starters, there were some technical issues - problems with continuity - that were somewhat glaring in the opening scenes.

For example, in one dramatic segment an elite arms specialist is interrupted during the course of an attempt to diffuse a bomb, when a local (possibly an insurgent) drives into a cordoned off area in a threatening stance.

In response, Staff Sergeant William James (Jeremy Renner) strides up to the vehicle, pulls out a handgun, and levels it at the driver from a vantage point at the front of the vehicle.

In the next few minutes, the tension builds, in what amounts to a Mexican stand-off.

What went down next was surprising.

Jenner's character - in sum, a wild and cocky dude - proceeds to maneuver his way to the door on the driver's side where he barks out an order.

After a cut-away shot or two - Jenner's character is suddenly caught on camera - once again.

But, in the second pan - he is once again  in front of the vehicle which would be physically impossible - given what just transpired a few seconds earlier on screen.

Basically, the shot was a big fat blooper.

For an established director of Bigelow's stature in the business to make such a grievous error in continuity,  was truly unthinkable, but there it was staring the audience in the face.

Is it possible that Ms. Bigelow caught it at another screening, but left it in, thinking no one would notice?

Sloppy filmmaking, at best!

During a revealing thought-provoking Q & A, Ms. Bigelow noted for the record that due to unsurmountable complications the production company was unable to secure locations in Iraq, so they were forced to set up shop in a locale in Jordan about five miles from the border.

Once the deal was pacted, Ms. Bigelow facilitated footage of Baghdad (captured on film by screenwriter Mark Boal) to construct large sets that reflected the unique architecture of the Iraquian region she was focusing her lens on.

The sets were large, and allowed for "macro" and "micro" shots, as she succinctly put it.

The filming schematic worked well in this instant case.

Ms. Bigelow was able to shoot wide establishing shots one moment, and zoom in the next, without being obtrusive.

Hence, that aspect of filmmaking technique, lent a realistic bent to "Hurt Locker".

The Director articulated her reasoning for this approach.

 "Without an awareness of where the cameras were, the actors remained oblivious to the filming process - and so - were forced to focus on the action around them without being self-conscious or playing to the cameras," she added for clarification.

Frankly, I was quite taken with a number of the innovative shots, from a filmmaker's point of view.

Although Bigelow stayed within the formal approach to standard wide shots, two shots, and close-ups (being mindful of looking room, for example) she managed to implant a distinctive style that prevented well-measured "Hurt Locker" from becoming too stereotypical or pedestrian in nature.

I felt like I was taking in a documentary in the opening scenes, for instance, because of that approach (so real was the drama unfolding before me).

But - when a new character was introduced into the storyline due to an unexpected plot twist which arose during a bomb crisis - I spied the hand of the screenwriter manipulating the story and the terrain they breathed upon.

After a ghastly bout of nasty hiccups and burps (which were difficult to ignore since they revolved around the main three characters and subsequent story development), "Hurt Locker" finally shifted gears into the right direction once again.

Until a sub-plot - which focused on a Doctor who helps soldiers cope with stress - meandered into the picture out-of-the-blue.

When that character met a tragic death due to his own stupidity, it was not a surprise, since I saw that end scenario coming a mile off.

On the carpet in Dallas, I recall that Ms. Bigelow was a bit icy, and ever-the-director.

For example, when a quip she made inspired me to jot it down for future reference to use as a potential quote, she hissed at me without hesitation.

"You don't have to write that down," she commanded.

"Oh, yes I do," I chuckled, much to her chagrin.

On that occasion, it was quite evident to me that Ms. Bigelow was a control freak.

And, her tendency to hit the media with calculated director's "bites", can be downright annoying.

Post:  09/03/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/03/afi-dallasjeremy-renner-appears-for.html

In my estimation, it is doubtful any reporter will ever scratch the surface of Ms. Bigelow's tough outer skin, so guarded is she in respect to her true thoughts and creative thought processses (except for those she is willing to share ad nauseam to further a sugar-coated persona for promotional purposes).

However,on any given occasion, it is tough for any sentient being not to react when an unexpected moment of candor rears its ugly head and triggers an emotional reaction.

As Ms. Bigelow proved without a shadow of a doubt last evening.

For instance, in response to a question fielded from affable film writer Kenneth Turan, Ms. Bigelow noted for the record that although the conditions overseas in the middle east were not luxurious by any means, the actors were forewarned about the lack of amenities beforehand.

Just as the interviewer was about to move on, the screenwriter (Mark Boal) paused a second, then contradicted Bigelow's statement.

"I don't think that's true," he quipped a bit self-consciously.

Bigelow half-turned in her chair - taken aback for a second or two (in what amounted to a knee-jerk reaction) - before she managed to reel in her emotions and "let it go".

As Ricky often lamented to Lucy time and time again:

"You've got some 'splainin' to do!"

No doubt Boal got a tongue lashing backstage or on his cell late last night.

By the way, Mark Boal collaborated with Ms. Bigelow on a previous project, which is how they ended up putting their heads together on "Hurt Locker"

On these shores, the outgoing down-to-earth reporter, was logging reports on the war in Iraq.

But, one auspicous day, he got the bug.

"I wanted to see the War from the perspective of the soldiers on the front," he explained.

So, he nabbed an assignment on the front lines, and fully-documented the horrors unfolding around him.

The Iraq experience inspired the journalist to develop a screenplay (there were at last count over 17 drafts in all) which he later turned over to Bigelow for development.

Once the decision was made to go forward, the production company pursued - and landed - foreign investors (which was a plus to Bigelow).

"We had full control of the project," she proudly noted.

Ah, control, there is that word again.

As I have always said - time & time again - there is nothing worse than a woman who thinks she has a pair of ba**s.

But, in the instant case, it may have been an advantage for the articulate Ms. Bigelow.

She managed to take a gutsy lunge at a tough gritty script and turn it into a respectable thriller on screen.

Impossible to achieve if you're a shrinking violet - or a "yes man" - in Tinsel Town.

Unfortunately, because "Hurt Locker" is flawed and was Hollywoodized (bastardized, too) along the treacherous way - the project (though highly touted in some quarters) probably won't garner any Oscar nods from the Academy (except for soundtrack maybe, or special effects).

In spite of that, a handful of theatre-goers may perceive layers, which just aren't there.

A case in point

When Turan asked Mark Boal about a scene at the end of the film (which focused on the Sergeant's difficulty in selecting cereal from dozens of boxes neatly displayed on a supermarket shelf) the writer agreed with the critic that it underscored that Sergeant James - though capable of diffusing a well-crafted bomb with complex trick triggers - found it difficult to perform simple tasks at home in the presence of his family.

The message I got from that scene was so much more profound than that.

The whole scenario drove home to me one niggling reminder.

American consumers have so many choices - which is in large part due to young soldiers like those depicted in "Hurt Locker" - who fight the good fight for democracy on the war-torn soil of countries like Iraq daily.

Notwithstanding, how would it be possible for any decent human being to ever be concerned about a particular brand of cereal, after they've witnessed young children starving on the streets of impoverished Nations?

Nuff said!

On  a final note, and not to be remiss in my duties, it should be noted the music in Bigelow's project was quite remarkable (hauntingly beautiful, as a matter-of-fact).

The composers' scores continually buttressed up (and heightened the intensity of the drama) without taking away or creating any frivolous distractions.

Keep plugging away, Ms. Bigelow.

You've got the raw talent and will undoubtedly turn out a winner one day.

Until then, get real!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Beverly Hills...Rebecca Mader to host Christmas Lighting Celebration! UNICEF snowflake & Baccarat Crystal chandeliers spark up yuletide...

The festive tradition of the candle-lighting ceremony (a highlight of the year in tony Beverly Hills) - and a round of upbeat yuletide soirees to put holidays shoppers in a fanciful good-hearted yuletide mood - kick off this weekend in the upscale enclave amidst a lot of spirited local enthusiasm and media hoopla.

Last year's blow-out opening ceremonies - hosted by Nicole Richie and toy-boy pal Joel Madden (Ambassador to UNICEF &  lead singer for the pop band Good Chalotte) - wowed the locals who packed the streets with barely standing-room-only to catch the festive holiday extravaganza.

 The 2009 festivities are going to be bigger and better!

The Holiday Lighting

The partying gets underway on Saturday November 21st!

For starters, there will be a multitude of afternoon activities along Rodeo Drive just prior to the spectacular Holiday Lighting Ceremony at the 200 block of Rodeo later.

3:00 - 7:00 PM

Visitors to tony Rodeo Drive will be treated to free entertainment by balloon sculptors, jugglers, caricature artists, and entertaining street musicians.

Strollers will be knocked out by the striking outdoor lights and banners strung throughout the Golden Triangle this holiday season.

There will also be plentiful opportunities to have photographs taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus, too.

7:00 PM

The lighting ceremony blasts off just after the dinner hour.

 Santa will be on hand along with carolers and special celebrity guest and UNICEF supporter, actress Rebecca Mader.

Mader, was a regular on the immensely popular TV series "Lost" and recently co-starred in the box-office hit "Men Who Stare at Goats".

Mader will not only flip the switch on thousands of twinkle lights on Rodeo Drive(with the help of the Mayor), but also - rev to life the pièce de résistance - the brilliant UNICEF crystal snowflake which will soar over the Beverly Wilshire hotel during the month of December.

A grand fireworks finale caps off the evening with skyrockets arcing in the mid-heavens above the hotel.

Spectacular, eh?

Post Candlie-Lighting Ceremonies

The Two Rodeo Drive "after party" gets underway after the initial candle-lighting ceremoney has commenced with a lot of fanfare.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand as snowflakes float effortlessly to the ground along the cobblestone Via Rodeo walkway.

Many shoppers will take advtage of the celebrated occasion to indulge in holiday sips and bites at the chic boutiques and cozy restaurants lining the European-inspired shopping complex as holiday music from a live steel drum band entertains passers-by.

Visitors who return to shop throughout the weeks leading up to gift-giving D-Day - will no doubt take advantage of the two hours of free parking provided at the Beverly Hills City parking garages - along Rodeo, Beverly and Canon Drives (look for the turquoise blue parking signs).

Deck the Hills

BH is known for its sparkle year-round, but particularly, throughout the high-spirited holiday (Holy) season.


The well-manicured streets will be shimmering with twinkle lights and a host of colorful banners adorning lamp posts.

THE PALEY CENTER FOR MEDIA

Santa and Mrs. Claus will make several appearances around town again this year as usual.

Join Mrs. Claus on the trolley the Sunday before Thanksgiving and every Saturday and Sunday thereafter between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Beverly Hills trolley pick up is at the southeast corner of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way.

Mrs. Claus plans to enchant her captive charges with a few stories and songs first, then lead her guests over to hubbie (St. Nick) at The Paley Center for some one-on-one time with the jovial cookie-lover.

Well-wishers cans can share their deepest secrets and fervent desires with Santa on that occasion.

11:00 am to 2:00 pm (weekends)

The pair appear live on stage the following dates:

November 22nd
November 28th & 29th
December 5th & 6th
December 12th & 13th
December 19th & 20th

Trolley tickets:
 $10 adults
 $  5 children (under 12)

Regular trolley tours:
2:00 pm / 3:00 pm / 4:00 pm

Info: (310) 285-2442 for more information.

Holiday Happenings

Many of the local boutiques & Hotels are hosting special events along the lines of those posted below that you may want to participate in.
 

The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills Holiday Tasting Event

November 10th, 11th and12th
(7:00 - 9:00 pm)

Join proprietor, Norbert Wabnig, and manager/wine buyer, Tony Princiotta, at The Cheese Store’s annual Holiday Spectacular Tasting Event.
The event is known for its festive non-regional approach focusing on an excellent selection of champagnes, gourmet cheeses and all the extras you would want to serve at your own holiday celebrations.
Previous events included ports, caviar, foie gras and truffles along with guest appearances by artisanal producers.
The event will be held on Sharkey’s Patio (435 N. Beverly Drive) on three nights.
(November 10th, 11th & 12th)
 (7:00 - 9:00 pm).
The cost is $100 a person.
Reservations in advance at (310) 278-2855
Details: info@cheesestorebh.com.

Montblanc Pre-Lighting Ceremony Event

November 21st
(4:00 - 7:00 pm)

Pop into Montblanc (323 N. Rodeo Drive) on Saturday, November 21st!
This is a pre-official Beverly Hills Lighting Ceremony event.
Refreshments served during the shop UNICEF "Signature for Good" event.
10% of sales from this event (excluding Limited Edition items) will benefit UNICEF programs.
RSVP: rsvp.rodeodrive@montblanc.com.

Give Thanks at Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive

November 26th
(12 noon - 9:00 pm)

Café Rodeo Restaurant at Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive (360 N. Rodeo Drive) offers a traditional three-course Thanksgiving menu.
Choose from a Roasted Turkey and Spring Vegetable Soup or Tenderloin Steak Salad appetizer Grilled and Stuffed Turkey Breast, Pan-Seared Atlantic Sea Bass or Braised Rosemary Short Ribs entrée selection (Chocolate Lava Cake, Pumpkin Pie or Bread Pudding for dessert).
The Thanksgiving Day menu is offered at $45/adult and $20/child (10 and under).
Reservations are strongly recommended at (310) 691-7584
Info: Victoria.haylock@luxehotels.com.

Holiday Tea at Montage Beverly Hills
(225 N. Canon Drive)
November and December

Relax after the rush of holiday planning and shopping with a gracious afternoon tea in the Lobby Lounge of the exquisite Montage Beverly Hills hotel.
The cherished tradition is in full bloom from 2:30 - 5:00 p.m. daily throughout November and December. Expert tea specialists offer up a tea service which features exclusive artisan tea varieties in custom china inspired by the joyful wildflowers of California’s foothills.
A harpist adds to the soothing environment.
Reservations:  (310) 860-7800.

The Organic Pharmacy Holiday Celebration

November and December

On Friday, November 27, The Organic Pharmacy will kick off the holidays and celebrate their one-year anniversary in Beverly Hills with an in-store party.
Enjoy cake and beverages, a free gift with purchase, and an opportunity to win a fabulous four-night stay at the fabulous Capella Pedregal in Cabo.
Also, in November and until December 14th, prepare to look your best at upcoming holiday parties when you indulge in a Rose Crystal Facial ($160 for 1½ hrs.), voted one of the top 50 facials by Harpers Bazaar, and receive a complimentary vitamin and mineral scan (worth $75).
Info: (310) 272-2725

Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce On-Line Holiday Auction

November 23 – December 6th

Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce offers up a number of wonderful luxury products and services from both in and around the Luxury Capital of the world as part of its annual on-line holiday auction.
From spa treatments and massages to shopping and dining certificates, there is truly something for everyone during the holiday season!
Beverly Hills Online Auction (Holiday Edition) is the perfect way to grab a slice of luxury for yourself, a loved one, business associate, or client.
Indulge in items like a men’s suit from Brooks Brothers Beverly Hills, a $500 Mastro’s Steakhouse gift card or a three-night stay at the Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort.
To bid, visit: www.beverlyhillschamber.com/auction and select ‘Register’ to set up a new account and start bidding.
View all auction items or select a specific category on the right side toolbar.
Bidding starts at 8:00am (PST) on Monday, November 23rd and closes at 10:00 pm Dec. 6th.
The last and highest bid at closing wins the item.
The winning bidder will receive an email once the auction on the item is closed.
Winning items can be picked up at the Chamber offices (239 S. Beverly Drive) or mailed.

Two Rodeo Drive

November 18th - December 18th

Celebrate the holidays in style at Two Rodeo in the heart of Beverly Hills.
Two Rodeo will be decorated with a  25-foot holiday tree and decorative penguins swimming in the Wilshire fountain.
Carolers and live musical entertainment will set the shopping mood on the Via Rodeo every Thursday - Saturday evening (4:00 – 7:00 pm)
 (Nov. 27 -- Dec. 24)
Info: http://www.tworodeo.com



Soolip Gift Wrapping Services at The Peninsula Beverly Hills
(9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd)

December 1st – 24th

The package is as lovely as the gift itself when you take advantage of Soolip's signature gift wrapping services at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.
Visit Soolip in the lobby:
 December 1 – 11 (11 am - 7 pm) & December 12 – 24 (10 am – 8 pm) Drop off  gifts and choose from an irresistible collection of Japanese silkscreened, tree-free and pattern-embossed papers along with a dizzying array of hand-dyed silk ribbons and nature-inspired gift toppers.

There is a fee for the service (depending on selected paper, ribbon and gift toppers), but wrapping for holiday gifts purchased at The Spa at The Peninsula Beverly Hills will be complimentary.

While you wait, treat yourself  to The Peninsula's infamous tea service and return a couple hours later with all your gifts enhanced with the Soolip aesthetic.

Holiday Champagne and Dessert Tea at Greystone Mansion
(905 Loma Vista Drive)

December 6th
(2:00 – 3:30 pm)

Celebrate the holiday season with an afternoon tea at historic Greystone Estate.

This traditional tea will include finger sandwiches, scones, tea, champagne and dessert, served using fine china and fresh linens.
Weather permitting, the tea will occur on the terrace with a view of the city; in the case of inclement weather, the tea will take place inside the mansion.
Holiday related musical entertainment as well as a tour of the first floor of the mansion is included.
There is limited seating, so advanced reservations are recommended.
Tickets are $50/person
Info: (310) 285-6850.

The Beverly Hills Hotel & Bungalows
(9641 Sunset Blvd)

Under the direction of Executive Chef Alex Chen, the hotel will feature gourmet prix fixe holiday dinner menus on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve in the world-famous Polo Lounge restaurant.
And whether it’s before, during or after the feast, imbibe in one of six holiday cocktail concoctions created especially for this time of year.
Try the Pilgrim Iced Tea or Pumpkin Pie Hot Cocoa on Thanksgiving, get a little naughty with Mrs. Claus’ Little Secret or Rudolph’s Red Light at Christmas,and break out the party hats on New Year’s Eve with a Twisted Sparkling Lemonade or Up All Night beverage.
Reservations: ww.beverlyhillshotel.com

Dickens’ Dining at Lawry’s the Prime Rib
(1100 N. La Cienega Blvd)

Lawry’s the Prime Rib whisks you back in time to Yuletide in Victorian England with their Dickens’ A Christmas Carol lunch and dinner.
Festively costumed actors and carolers will perform scenes from the Charles Dickens’ classic as you feast on Lawry’s famous cuisine.
The Dickens’ dining experience is available either at lunch (12 noon) or dinner (7:00 pm) on Sunday, December 6.
Enjoy Lawry’s famous Spinning Bowl Salad, Roasted Prime Ribs of Beef served with Mashed Potatoes, Yorkshire Pudding and Creamed Spinach OR Fresh Grilled Salmon served with Vegetables.
Top it off with Apple Pie drizzled in Caramel Sauce, a sweet ending to this truly special meal.
(A children’s menu is also available.)
Reservations: (310) 360-6281, Ext. 4
Monday through Friday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Lawry’s website at http://www.lawrysonline.com

Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive, 360 N. Rodeo Drive

Luxe Hotel’s Bar 360 has whipped up a rotating menu of chocolate-inspired cocktails, available during the bar’s famous $3.60 Martini Happy Hour from mid-November through the end of the year.
Can you resist the Chocolate Martini, Chocolate-Covered Cherry Cocktail or Minted Hot Chocolate accompanied by chocolate-covered strawberries and chocolate chip cookies?
Chocolate is the perfect pick-me-up during the often exhausting holidays!
 Luxe website at http://www.luxehotelrodeodrive.com

Montage Beverly Hills
(25 N. Canon Drive)

Montage Beverly Hills is presenting a culinary tour de force this season with a selection of festive holiday menu options at their Parq restaurant. Parq offers elegant family-style dining on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day and multi-course prix fixe tasting menus on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Food connoisseurs looking for a private and exclusive dining event may reserve a Couples Culinary experience with Executive Chef John Cuevas.
You and your culinary companion will meet with the chef to select your perfect holiday menu and then join him in hands-on cooking classes and demonstrations to prepare the dinner together.
Return later that evening with your guests (8-12) to savor the feast.
Reservations: (310) 860-7891.
Info: http://www.montagebeverlyhills.com

Sprinkles Cupcakes
(635 S. Santa Monica Blvd)

Sprinkles Cupcakes, purveyor of the yummiest baked treats and a regional fan favorite, has something special up their sleeve for the holidays.
In addition to their regular mouth-watering cupcake flavors (peanut butter chip, lemon coconut and red velvet, for example), they’ll be seducing customers with unique seasonal flavors during November and December.
Look for pumpkin cupcakes during the entire month of November, ginger maple and orange cranberry temptations from November 20-29th, and eggnog spice, chocolate peppermint and vanilla peppermint selections in December (through the 24th).
Info: http://www.sprinklescupcakes.com

The Peninsula Beverly Hills
(9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd)

Positively sparkling with holiday decorations inside and out, The Peninsula Beverly Hills is the perfect spot to enjoy the season.
In the Living Room, a third Afternoon Tea seating has been added to accommodate shoppers looking for respite from the throes of consumerism.
And the Club Bar serves holiday inspired cocktails - the Candy Cane Martini or Hot Cocoa with Amaretto – sure to warm you from the inside out.
The Belvedere restaurant has planned gala dinners for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, and also serves a full-on holiday feast on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
(11:00 am to 9:00 pm)
Reservations: http://www.beverlyhills.peninsula.com

Shop Talk (tips from retailers)

1. Create a gift recipient list with possible gift ideas for each person before you head out on your shopping adventure.

2. Don’t “panic” shop. A getaway at our hotels will give you plenty of time to shop casually – AND you’ll get an additional night free when you stay two nights. Now that’s a holiday special!

3. Enjoy two hours of free parking at the public parking structures on Rodeo, Beverly and Canon Drives (look for the turquoise blue parking signs).

4. Step inside the Christian Audigier boutique on Camden Drive, and you’re one step ahead of the pack. The tattoo-inspired artwear (T-shirts, hoodies and even sequined dresses) turns heads and makes a statement – one that doesn’t say you’re trying too hard.

5. If it’s sweet things you’re after, make sure Asweet is on your list. This South Beverly sweet shop, decorated in pastel hues reminiscent of cotton candy, is an eclectic collection of chocolate and gourmet candy treats, baubles for your wrists and fingers and adorable tops, pants and separates to satisfy your cravings for “sugar and spice and everything nice.”

6. While you’re on SoBev, break from the shopping madness and feed your body (and soul) with a bite of lunch. Try the Roasted Baby Beets salad or Grilled Cheese sandwich at Cabbage Patch or the Famous Roast Beef and Provolone sub sandwich at Jersey Mike’s Subs.
7. Select gift items you know your family will use – or shall we say “consume.” We suggest any of the gorgeous chocolate gift boxes from Madame Chocolat, your favorite California wine from the Wine Valet or a basket of domestic and international cheeses from The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills.

8. Seems you’ve yet to fill your “shimmer and shine” quotient for the day. A stop at Judith Leiber at Two Rodeo will solve that problem. Enter the Crystal Room at this opulent accessories boutique and choose from several exclusive-to-Beverly Hills crystal minaudière clutches in that unmistakable Judith Leiber style.

9. Christopher Guy recently opened his first and only U.S. furniture gallery in Beverly Hills. From seductive, yet gracious tables and chairs to sculptural candlesticks and other decorative accents, any selection from Christopher Guy will stand out in your home this holiday season.

10. Men, wind down at the end of your shopping trip and head into Gornick and Drucker at the Montage Beverly Hills for a customized traditional shave at this old world barber shop. Ladies can indulge in the female version – the “Wrapped in Luxury” La Prairie Caviar Facial and Massage at The Beverly Hills Hotel.

Affordable Options

Consider these activities and gift suggestions as you navigate the season ahead:

1. Two hours of free parking? Hard to come by these days, but not in Beverly Hills. Look for the City parking structures, marked by the turquoise parking signs on Rodeo, Beverly and Canon Drives.

2. Pick out decorative papers to create your own festive stationery or select from a variety of sophisticated ready-made cards at Paper Source - $12.25-$22.50 per box. (9460 Brighton Way)

3. Famous Cupcakes – not just famous, but delicious, too. Try the Hot Chocolate or Black Tie varieties, for example ($3.25 each) or take home a full Merry Christmas bouquet for $74.99. (168 S. Beverly Dr.)

4. These “hills” are made for walking . . . clear your head as you enjoy the vast collection of public art and notable architecture on our Art & Architecture Walking Tour, all compliments of Beverly Hills.

5. Kisses to you from Beverly Hills. Our new limited edition sterling silver “kiss, kiss” necklace is available at Zina Beverly Hills for just $60 – perfect for you or your BFF. (470 S. Beverly Dr.)

6. Let the creative juices flow when you “design” your own tee or tank at Fashionology – tops start at about $30. Your add-ons (sequins, charms, logos) make it one-of-a-kind, with each fashion accent offered at a nominal additional charge. (342 N. Canon Drive)

7. Let L’Occitane en Provence transport you to that oh-so-charming region of France – the Shea Butter Lavender Cream ($39) or the Green Tea Eau de Toilette fragrance ($46) takes you there. (367 N. Beverly Drive)

8. Pop into The Paley Center for Media and peruse the archives. Bet your favorite Beverly Hills 90210 episode is available for screening, and it’s free. (465 N. Beverly Dr.)

9. Slip into Villa Blanca for a little Mediterranean-inspired cuisine – the Risotto with Wild Mushrooms ($16) or Fresh Lobster and Crab Salad ($18) fits the bill. (9601 Brighton Way)

10. Spice up your daughter’s wardrobe (or yours) with a hobo dress ($59) or a long tab cardigan sweater ($99) from Flaunt Boutique (266 S. Beverly Drive)

11. The children’s clothing options at Marie-Chantal Beverly Hills are too cute for words, and yet most are designed for rough-and-tumble kids’ activities. Take the boys’ long-sleeved T-shirt, for example ($48) – your little guy is ready for the playground now! (338 N. Beverly Drive)

12. All aboard the Beverly Hills Trolley Tour – at $10 per adult and $5 per child, it’s a bargain for the whole family. (SE Corner – Rodeo Drive/Dayton Way)

13. Green up your holidays with an all-natural/all-organic hand and foot refresher at Chi Nail Bar and Organic Spa. This classic manicure/pedicure combination ($60) features Green Tea Seed Oil for the softest hands and feet. (9390 S. Santa Monica Blvd.)

14. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, don’t forget about your favorite four-legged friends, Buster and Belle. How about a sweater for Buster ($65) and a Mrs. Santa Paws Dress for Belle ($48) from Beverly Hills Mutt Club? ‘Tis the season! (9872 S. Santa Monica Blvd.)

15. Take advantage of our year-round temperate climate and stroll through the many gardens here – Beverly Gardens Park along Santa Monica Blvd., for example, or Greystone Mansion at 905 Loma Vista Drive. Yep, it’s free!

16. Fashionphile sells gently used designer handbags and accessories like the Chloe rhinestone key ring ($100) at gentle-to-your-pocketbook prices. (9551 Wilshire Blvd.)

17. We know you’ve got holiday party plans! Glam it up with a pair of black suede peep-toe pumps with rhinestone accents – $90 at Aldo Shoes. (404 N. Beverly Dr.)

18. For the “foodie” in your life, pick up a non-stick pizza crisper ($21), a garlic peeler ($9) or The Williams-Sonoma Cookbook ($34.95) at Williams-Sonoma. (339 N. Beverly Drive)

19. Oliverio, the sleek, new restaurant and lounge at Avalon Hotel, serves up a variety of hearty grilled panini sandwiches ($14) for lunch and a selection of fresh, flavorful entrees (i.e. Scottish Salmon for $25 or Beef Short Ribs for $29) at dinnertime. (9400 W. Olympic Blvd.)

20. A gift from Coach guarantees “glee” around the Christmas tree. A mahogany “skinny C” merino wool hat ($68) or a small red patent Gramercy wallet ($98) should do the trick. (327 N. Rodeo Dr.)

Info: http://www.beverlyhills.peninsula.com

Happy Holidays!

Baccarat Crystal Chandeliers dusted off for Christmas!

http://www.julianarys.com

Bad Lieutenant...offbeat role for actor Nicolas Cage! Werner Hertzog stylistically treats...

At a Q & A session several months ago, director Werner Herzog - hyped-up over his last release (Encounters at the end of the World)  - focused for a second or two on his "then" next project which was about to be wrapped that week (July 2009).

"I call it the 'Bad-Ass' Lieutenant'," he chuckled to a rapt audience comprised mostly of twenty-something film buffs, there to take in two top-notch films lensed by Herzog, and to honor a man thick in every aspect of the fascinating (but draining) process of filmmaking.

Post:  07/30/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/09/werner-herzogattends-screening-of.html

He was quick to tout the acting prowess of lead actor, Nicolas Cage, who slipped under the skin of the fascinating character and sported it like a comfortable old shoe.

In the tragic dark comedy (a take-off on Abel Ferrar's classic cult offering in 1992) - Cage plays a cop sidelined by an addiction to prescription drugs - bent on maintaining sanity in spite of the odds against it.

Due to a scheduling conflict, I was unable to catch the Herzog feature which screened last week( photographed in a keen naturalistic style), but intend to saunter into a theatre in the near future to get the low-down first-hand since I am a big fan of Mr. Herzog (a director's director, by the way).

The buzz?

Cage's performance is being hailed as a bravado break-through revelation in some circles.

"Cage gives a hypnotic performance," gushed Roger Ebert (Chicago Sun-Times), for instance.

It will be interesting to take a gander at Val Kilmer's contribution who - according to Herzog - was more-or-less a boy scout on d the set in Louisiana during the duration of the exhausting shoot.

Allegedly there was a lot at stake for the surly actor known to be a trouble-maker in past incarnations.

The response to "Bad Lieutenant" hasn't been half-bad from film critics.

According to Manohla Dargis at the New York Times:

"One of the best movies of Mr. Herzog's career. Here Mr. Cage and Mr. Herzog take you into a hell that leads straight to movie heaven."

Herzog must be floating on a cloud!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Levi Johnston...nude lay-out quips of the day (or sensual night)!

Care for a sniff?

(kinky)

They don't call Levi the ice man for no good reason!

He shoots! He scores!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Whatever happened to Sue Helen Petrie?

Whatever happened to Sue Helen Petrie?

District 9...slick Sci-Fi thriller falls short of any intelligence factors! Popcorn movie entertains...

One of my Art Professors once cautioned that when viewing a work of art - whether it be a painting or a short film - the observer should take a step back and first fathom the emotions that washed over the senses.

A clever artist, after all, is capable of manipulating the elements to seduce the individual.

That's the case with Neill Blomkamp's Sci-Fi thriller - District 9 - released by Tri-Star pictures.

Understandably.

Blomkamp started out in the biz as a director of videos and TV commercials.

A master of slick vacuous images, Blomkamp's film work has no soul or spirit to speak of.

To an intelligent person with unfailing logic, the plot does hold much water, either.

In the introductory scenes, it is duly noted that disease-ridden aliens crash-landed on Earth about two decades ago, and were summarily herded into a squalid cordoned-off neighborhood in South Africa (out of harm's way, presumably).

Through the clever use of fictional news-reel footage, it was established further that the aliens were at the mercy of their captors (the human race!) and literally faced dire straits because of their primitive nature and inability to broach their base animal instincts and rise up against their foes.

But, an intelligent filmgoer will undoubedly catch the irony of that unfolding scenario, on screen.

Surely a race of aliens - capable of crafting a spaceship with the remarkable technology (and wizardry) alleged by the screenwriters here - would not have allowed themselves to be kept under the thumb of alien beings obviously inferior to their highly-advanced intergalactic race!

Once the filmgoer has recongized the folly of it all, it is wholly possible to settle down and realx into the vastly entertaining (and engrossing) visual aspects of the film (go along for the joy ride after suspending belief).

Lots of action, humor, and a posse of delightfully wicked villains, manage to hold the filmgoers in sway (and on the edge of their seats) as they furiously munch on high-calorie snacks washed down with frosty sodas and what-not.

Yessir, dudes!

District 9 - with all its sophistication and near grace - is just a plain old popcorn movie!

Pass the butter, please.

During a Q & A session, the director humbly confided that he was not seasoned enough to direct a film of the calibre of Shinder's list (he'll leave that to professionals like Spielberg he gushed almost too quickly).

But, you know what?

Blomkamp is not talented or experienced enough to craft a Hollywood feature sure to stand the test of time, either.

The direction was pedestrian, at best.

And, there was too much stalled action, from the get-go.

Dude - just pop the guy - and get it over with.

The cloying way a handful of key scenes were executed was downright BORING.

However, in spite of himself, there was a nifty notion or two lurking in the carnage that was District 9.

The plot device that conjured up the idea about a piece of military equipment (and high-tech space craft) - that only functions when triggered by the user's DNA - was quite an imaginative dalliance with myriad possibililties.

When one character was left in a lurch - half-human /  half-alien - he is assured that the leader of the Alien Nation will be back in three years to cure him of his hybrid genetics.

Ah, the door is opened wide for a sequel.

It strecthed one's credulity to imagine that Director Neill Blomkamp was clueless about the potential of a follow-up project to resolve that loose end as he would have us believe the other night at the Landmark.

Wise old owls like me just chuckle at that kind of silly co**-tease.

For a run-down on the highlights of the interview click on the link:

Post:  11/10/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/11/los-angeles-timesenvelope-screening-of.html

In the final analysis, District 9 is sure to fair well in video sales down the line, and at endless rounds of all-nighters at local revival houses, on an alien-invaders triple bill.

http://www.julianayrs.com

Cher...splashes back @ Caesars! Dazzling show-biz spectacular premieres Nov. 19th...

Cher (the unsinkable stage performer and show biz trooper) sashays into the Colosseum at the end of the week (Novemer 19th) to the delight of die-hard fans who - basked in the glow of her trail of successes when she rode high over the years - and buttressed her up when she went down in flames on occasion during the course of a remarkable career than has spanned a few dazzling decades.

A few weeks ago - when Cher kicked off her first stint at Caesar's Palace - I was on hand to surreptiously capture up-close-and-personal all-the-goings-on at the celebrated event.

As Cher's guests mingled about the tony foyer, they chatted each other up enthusiastically,  'til the doors swung open wide to the thronging masses right on the button.

For the most part, the ticketholders were well-heeled, stylish, and coiffed to the nines.

Not unlike the Queen of Clubs in their midst!

The ambience?

Electric!

In a prior post, I focused on Cher's remarkable career, with a parcel of personal facts tossed in after delivering up all the pertinent info on her glorious return to Vegas.

If you're inclined to take a trip down memory lane - just click on the link - to be transported back.

Post:  09/18/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/09/cherdinner-show-caesars-palace-in-vegas.html

In recent days, Cher has busied herself with a handful of projects, according to press clippings.

In particular, I understand that her penchant for aesthetics - especially as they apply to home decor - triggered an offshoot hobby into the interior design business.

Family dramas also thrust her into the spotlight in recent weeks.

Daughter Chastity, for instance, stunned Momma (and the whole free world) when she announced out-of-the-blue one fine day that she was pining for a sex operation to become a full-fledged man.

In contrast to a gaggle of shocked parents before her - who have often shunned their children when confronted with a similar sexually-charged dilemma - Cher tackled the issue square on and stood by her lovely daughter.

Coincidentally, as I was preparing this post today, I stumbled across an article in a National magazine, in which Chastity openly confided to an interviewer that she has been growing hair recently in previously un-thought-of places.

Not a shrinking violet these days, is - um - he?

For her birthday, thoughtful friends (Mother, too?) gifted her with a bevy of shaving products.

And, there was a subtle name change, from Chastity to Chaz.

Meanwhile, judging by the publicity stills for the Caesar spectlacular, Cher has either uncovered the fountain of youth, hired the best airbrush artist in the business, or is dallying with secret potions and magic botox concoctions to wash the grey - and tell-tale signs of middle-age - away.

Some say, the normally-sensible Pop Diva, has become a plastic surgery junkie!

Or, made a pact with the devil, along the lines of  Dorian Gray?

News at 11!

http://www.julianayrs.com

Twilight...the music behind the Vampire Mask! The Killers, Muse, Bon Iver, Thom Yorke...

The scintillating music behind the Vampire Mask

of

Twilight

&

New Moon

            

             

               St. Vicent

Thom Yorke

             

    

                                                                                                              Killers

Death Cab for Cutie

http://www.julianayrs.com

The Tattler...readers college educated with kids! Highest ranked key words Letterman, Las Vegas, Ellen DeGeneres...

Markie-Mark gets hits

Whew!

I can't imagine why

Lusty Lesbo

lures trollettes to site!

Over the past few weeks, for some inexplicable reason, my blog - The Tattler - has catapulted me into the stratosphere with regard to fame!

Everywhere I go these days - whether it's into a chic cafe for a cup of  hot java, strolling down the street mindlessly window-shopping, tooling around town in my shiny black SUV - folks stop and stare when they spy me in their midst.

So, of course, I have to be careful not to unwittingly pick my nose in public, make sure my attire for the day (or evening) is stylish (or at least sparkling clean or pressed to perfection), and endeavour to be all smiles so I don't get a reputation for being off-putting, stuck-up, whatever!

Mere mortals appear to have more of a problem dealing with my fame than little old moi!

Several months ago - folks whispered amongst themselves - is that him?

In more recent days, astonished bystanders tend to stop in their tracks as their eyes go wide, then turn to their friends in disbelief.

"Do you KNOW who that is?"

Perchance, did they assume that I was a mere thumbnail sketch (not a real person) on the Internet - with blood, or  flesh, or bone - to speak of?

Just recently, my high-profile status switched into high gear through no conscious effort of my own!

For example -  if I am dawdling at a cashier's window for a nano-second or two (on the heels of collecting my change) - the quick-on-the-uptake star-struck clerk may be inclined to bid me adieu.

Two simple words ("Thanks, Julian") are sweet nothings to the ears!

I find this an intriguing turn of events - since I don't recall introducing myself to the ball** clerk, let alone patronizing the establishment.

Must have been one of those dark nights of the soul, eh?

On occasion, when I'm in an aisle perusing a delectable array of yummy-looking goodies on the shelves, an employee (or fellow shopper) will sidle up and slyly engage me in a bit of harmless casual conversation

All the while, however, they continue to stare at me with a quizzical look on their stunned faces.

"It's really him," they appear to be saying to themselves just before they pinch their arm for a reality check.

Some gawkers engage in a bit of conduct which is quite disconcerting, though.

Last night at a coffee shop, for instance, I looked up from my newspaper and caught a dazed (and confused) gentleman anchored to the floor staring at me intently!

I expect that if I  bellowed out "boo", he would have toppled over, too.

According to recent stats at blogspot &  http://www.julianayrs.com/  a large percentage of my readers are college-educated.

Great, they "get" it.

But, why the goofy unsophisticated reactions when I'm out painting up the town?

My audience, by the way, is split just about evenly between males and females of the species (with the women edging out the dudes by a smidgen).

The larger percentage have kids in tow, too.

Must be all those sexy publicity stills of actors, athletes, and male models featured prominently on the site that drive the traffic my way.

Speaking of traffic, high-ranking keywords for my sites are "Letterman" (at the height of the breaking news about the scandal with that bimbo babe what's-her-name) and "Mark Wahlberg (triggered by a shower scene post, I expect).

After that, it's a toss up between Twittter (natch, cause I tweet alot), perky talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres (who I often report on and refer to as a lesbo in jest since she's an avid follower), the glitzy city of Las Vegas (due to the ongoing Hotel reviews and what-not I pen posts on ad nauseam), Liberace & Scott Thorson (don't know why, but I'm laughing all the way to the bank), Prince William ( the post about the Prince's royal pee pee which caused such a ruckus in the pond across the sea), and the list goes on.

In the photo (above) sure looks like something's going on down South in the Prince's shorts!

At wordpress, the bulk of my readers hail from America.

Meanwhile, blogspsot and my personal web site (which features naughty insightful racy posts) tend to attract a large number of hits overseas from countries like Greece, India, Brazil, England, etc.

I wonder if anything is lost in the translation?

News at 11!

Once you've had black

'ya never go back!

Won't 'ya be my Teddy Bear?

http://www.julianayrs.com

Tea party...activists slated to burn Health reform supporters in effigy!

In an e-mail bright and early this morning, it was brought to my attention that Tea Party Activists plan to burn effigies of individuals on the other side of the floor who have been in support of  Obama's attempts to reform Healthcare on these shores.

In addition, Jon Vogel (DCCC Executive Director) underscored in his to-the-point missive that because "worshipping" tea-party "extremists" (such as Glen Beck and others) have remained undeterred by their embarrassing loss in the NY-23 Special Election, the battle for supremacy surges forward.

"First they announced that they are forming their own political action committee with the goal of raising millions to attack Democrats who voted for health insurance reform," he fumed.

"Now they've taken their protests to shocking new lows. Next weekend, they are planning to burn Democratic Members of Congress in effigy and more of these sickening displays are planned for the week ahead," he groused in his rousing crack-of-dawn communication.

Mr. Vogel is pitching a petition (posted below) which calls on Republican Members of Congress to denounce what he has alleged are despicable actions on the part of  the "tea-party crowd".

"Join the Democrats in a civil and constructive debate on bringing urgently-needed health insurance reform."

As I noted in the "comment box" provided (which was summarily returned post haste) -  individuals are entitled to voice their opinions and share their views freely and openly in a democratic society - without threat of ridicule, persecution, or an effigy-burning of their image at the stake.

John Vogel urges Americans to not only sign the petition, but also:

Call On The GOP Leadership To Tell Tea Party Protesters To Stop These Despicable Acts

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PETITION

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This Saturday, Conservative Tea Party activists plan to hang in effigy Members of Congress including Rep. Tom Perriello and Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Tell the GOP leadership to immediately denounce these despicable actions by the 'tea party' crowd and instead join Democrats in a civil and constructive debate on bringing urgently-needed health insurance reform.

Sign the petition below:
(sample)

Email:

First Name:

Last Name:

Zip / Postal Code:

Share Your Thoughts (optional)

Info: http://www.dccc.org/page/s/despicable

http://www.ijulian.blogspot.com

Michelle Obama...calendar pin-up! Stocking stuffer...

During the course of a stint of savvy window-shopping last evening, I stumbled across a gift-idea for fans of the President's better-half.

Just in time for Christmas, a 16-month 2010 Calendar featuring appealing poses of Michelle Obama in style-setting fashion ensembles, has landed on shelves at Borders (for starters).

Golly, when I was a kid, there were just twelve months in a year.

How did the ever-graceful Michelle manage to finesse that little stunt?

I guess Barack needs a few more calendar months to put the finishing touches on Healthcare reform, top-level orders pertaining to the shipment of  back-up troops to Afghanistan, slap-on-the-wrist sanctions to be brought against Iran, and so forth and so on.

I expect that when Barack Obama is strolling around the White House plucking up stray lint from the plush carpet, or stepping inside the tony environs of his state-of-the-art shower facility, a wide smile spreads over his lovable mug as he hums a bar or two of an old Neil Sedaka tune.

I love I love I love

My Calendar Girl!

Each day when the Prez jots down a flurry of appointments triggered (no doubt) by a handful of sticky dilemmas that won't go away, Michelle's beaming face will be staring back up at him.

Provided he springs for an edition or two, eh?

For those who want to feel stately and important, there's a Barack Obama appointment book in dark masculine hues on the market now, which should do the trick.

What's next?

A cycling cap with the President's ubiquitous John Henry on its peak - or, just maybe - a book of Michelle's down-home recipes perchance?

News at 11!

Barack Obama stocking-stuffer

www.julianarys.com