Sofia Coppola..."Somewhere" within striking distance! Stephen Dorff stars...

Once again, Sofia  Coppola intrigues film buffs with her choice of film projects - and likewise - her tendency to be fascinated by the pitfalls of excess.

The shy daughter of a giant in the film industry (director Francis Ford Coppola) - who conjured up a broad masterful portait of historical Diva Marie Antoinette - recently set her sights on a captivating subject much closer to home.

In "Somewhere", Ms. Coppola focuses her insightful lens on a charismatic actor at the height of his powers of seduction, and in the process takes a behind-the-scenes foray into an old Hollywood cliche.

Will success spoil Rock Hunter?

Although the young director's insightful lens focuses on life in the fast lane and its temptations - obsessions with romantic trysts, luxury Hotels and high-end sports cars - "Somewhere" is also a tale about a man in crisis.

Stephen Dorff was cast to play the A-list actor - which was ironic - when you consider that in real life he never made that grade.

Ms.Coppola is best-known for her screenplay - "Lost in Translation" - which nabbed her an Academy Award a scant few years back.

Hotel scenes for the flick - which premiered in Italy this past week - were shot at the chic Chateau Marmont, a popular hang-out for actors in town.

"I like hotels for settings, they are an impermanent place. A lot of the characters I am interested in are in a moment of transition and it seems fitting that they would be in an impermanent setting," Sofia gushed to one reporter in recent days.

Dorff conjectured that "Somewhere" was all about becoming a man.

In the instance of his character, the transformation comes about when his young daughter turns up on his doorstep, after endless dark nights of the soul have taken their toll.

Coppola piped up at one point that to tell the story from a guy's point of view was a challenge because the emotional life of men was different than hers.

Was the mission accomplished?

You be the Judge.

The feature is slated for release in December.

http://www.thetattler.biz/

San Francisco...Noe Valley day trip worth taking! Maiden's Breast...

One of my favorite day trips in San Francisco is probably overlooked by most savvy tourists when they breeze into town for some inexplicable reason.

Of course, I am referring to a captivating trek over the hill from the trendy Castro District to a well-kept secret which is Noe Valley.

A Village within a Village!

I happened across the delightful “find” many moons ago when I missed a stop on the Church Street trolley and ended up on the other side of the well-traveled tourist territory!

If an adventurous out-of-towner hops on one of the quaint street cars at Church & Market - and heads in the opposite direction of Safeway’s Grocery) a few blocks down the bustling thoroughfare (artfully lined with book stores, cafes, and trinket shops) - they’ll encounter one of the most breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline (on the left beyond the well-manicured park where gay dudes walk their dogs daily) ) as the trolley chug-a-lugs up a steep incline to the top of the crest of the hill.

A few moments later, after passengers have boarded or disembarked - the little train that could - lurches forward and is soon rambling along a track that twists-and-turns in-between a smattering of eye-catching turn-of-the-century homes and distinctive apartment houses that can’t help but fascinate tourists.

Suddenly, the spunky tram plunges downhill, as a panoramic view of a handful of quaint neighborhood nooks reveal their hidden charms in the distance.

To the right, the keen eye may spy “Twin Peaks” - the  mountain - nick-named the "Maiden's Breast" by jaunty sailors with a taste for the ladies with lust in their hearts.

I’ll always remember the first time I caught site of the fanciful landmark on Maupin's gay cult classic “Tales of the City”.

The sleepy little neighborhood has a lot to offer - gourmet food, imported wine, baked goods - you name it.
All yours, for the mere cost of a bus token!

Enjoy!

http://www.thetattler.biz

Calvin Klein...chic menswear boutique in San Francisco!

Great look for fashion savvy males!

If you have a wad of expendable cash - or a spanking new credit card to break in - hustle into the Calvin Klein menswear boutique on Market Street.

It will be difficult to scurry by Abercrombie & Fitch - ‘fer sure - but if you’re a dude out to cut a fine swath on romantic nights out in pulsating San Francisco (or elsewhere) - Klein is a more fashionable option.

Who wants to be a carbon-copy of every other boring dude bar-hopping ‘round town?
Personally, I was drawn in by the window-dressing.

The staff draped the fall line to ‘flatter” the male physique (maximize the appeal of the fashion statement) - unlike a bevy of other shops - where dim-witted PR staff tended to toss the garments on the cold hard shell of manikins in the display window without any focus on effecting a look that has the capacity - or a hope in hell - of ringing up sales.

You have to be an absolute worm - without one iota of fashion sense - to transform a chic outfit out of the crate into a $500.00 wardrobe ensemble that is all wrinkles - and tacky-looking to boot - when the casual window-shopper happens by.

I admit, judicious pinning - and a bit of sly shaping - can lure naive folks in the door.

But, when it gets right down to it, you have to have the “goods” to start with.

Klein has that in spades.

This fall the collection is wide and varied - and features a couple of wise “steals” (extracted surreptiously from fresh rising fashion stars)  incorporated into the mix - to punch up the basics.

For instance, pricey t-shirts featuring rich splashy motifs (sometimes in monochromatic tones) etched on their shoulders and backs, add dash to a silhouette that tends to be dark this fall.

Actually, Klein’s slacks, sport jackets, elegant dress shirts, and slim suits - rely on shades of black and grey for solid support.

So, a flashy design idea on one wardrobe item - an accessory streaked in gold, embossed eye-catching flourish, or contrasting jolt of fabric (even a controlled clashing of color) - allows the ballsy guy in the room to go peacock to the envy of all his pals.

In addition to well-tailored classy-looking suits in an affordable price range (for working dudes anyway) there is a lot to rumble around in on furlough days.

Klein’s outer-jackets are stand-outs - as is the selection of ubiquitous jeans - to team ‘em with.

Curiously, the most colorful of the apparel choices - the ever-sensual CK underwear - is hidden from view until an intimate moment or impromptu trek to the gym ferets them out during off-hours.

Klein, who still maintains control of the underwear arm of the Empire (he sold out the main designer line for mega-bucks years ago to a major menswear manufacturer if I recall correctly) has understandably drawn on his racy - sexy side - to exploit (and ultimately boost sales of) a collection of sexy skin-tight skivvies (normally restricted to the realm of out gay fashion designers on the fringes of the mainstream) that add sizzle to the muscled (or pasty-white nerd's) bod.

I expect that frayed, urine-stained boxers - with a tear or two lurking at a seam - will end up in the trash bin now that Klein’s body-fitting underwear has made an entrance on the scene 24/7.

Though a little too safe and predictable for some, overall the edgy designer wisely chose to pamper to in-shape fashion-conscious guys keen on details.

The look should fair well in large American cities, and with Anderson Cooper, for starters.

For the dude who likes to stand out, or implant his own style, there is always McQueen to dive into if the old wallet can stand the financial assault.

But, fashion smart dudes don’t have to splurge or go broke for trendy threads.

In discount houses today, I scooped up two t-shirts and a pair of spiffy shorts for under a double-sawbuck after some prudent attention to the bottom line.

A $4.00 purchase is already turning heads.

Could I ask for anything more?

Street chic at affordable prices - that singles out a stud in the dismal crowd - is the way to go.

Just skim those high-end fashion magazines (GQ & Details) for some tips on style!
 
 

Double-breasted jackets make smart entrance!

 
 

http://www.thetattler.biz

Sausalito Arts Festival! Jefferson Starship! Bangles! Wine! Gourmet Food! Labor Day!

One of America's top fine Arts Festivals commences at the threshold of the upcoming long weekend and runs through September 6th.

Artists from around the country will exhibit over twenty-thousand works of art in a joyous outdoor celebration sure to appeal to everyone!

In addition, there will be wine, gourment food, women (!), and song.

During the 3-day extravaganza, there will be live musical performances by a couple of high-profile eclectic bands.

Saturday
The Fixx
Modern English
The Bangles

Sunday
Pablo Cruise
Dave Mason
The Tubes

Monday
Jefferson Starship
Sons of Champlin
Mavis Staples

See 'ya there!

Tickets & Info

http://www.sausalitoartsfestival.org/

http://www.thetattler.biz

San Francisco...memories of Robert Shields in Union Square! European influences...

When I was crossing Union Square earlier today, the quick jaunt through the park triggered old memories of Robert Shields outfitted in ubiquitous tuxedo and white-painted face - a mime along the lines of legendary performer Marcel Marceau - who used to delight tourists with his hilarious spontaneous antics daily back in the seventies.

I met the handsome talented performer (allegedly straight) through friends I was staying with on Nob Hill on California Street many moons ago when I participated in a group Exhibition of Canadian Artists showcased at the San Francisco Arts Festival (1972).

Shortly after that, I often spied Shields on local and National TV shows, hamming up a storm as he began to build a solid career stemming from those humble days as a street clown.

When he wisely teamed with his girlfriend, the dynamic duo became known as Shields & Yarnell.

Actually, it is difficult not to encounter “ghosts” from the past whenever I cruise into the city by the Bay - after all - experiences with cherished friends here have been plentiful and filled with joy over the years.

I often wonder, for example, whatever became of a H.J. Weeks - who I corresponded with for years (he once resided on Vallejo Street) after we initially struck up a friendship one night on the Festival grounds at Civic the Center in downtown Frisco.

Tom Friertag - an intelligent handsome fellow who took me in as a grateful guest during that brief jaunt to the city by the bay - relocated to Hawaii from what I understand to pursue a career in teaching (according to friends in the grapevine) though I haven’t seen hide-nor-tail of him since.

For the first time - in a long spell - the face of Kevin Gagne floated out of my deep cluttered consciousness, too.

I literally met the charismatic French Canadian on a cable car, when he stopped in to San Francisco for a few days, before heading home to Montreal (Canada).

We also stayed in touch for a few years.

In fact, on a move to New York in the fall of 1973, I spent a few days in Quebec at his well-appointed apartment in downtown Montreal.

Since our first meeting, Kevin’s career as a hair stylist flourished immesaureably in the ultra chic Cosmopolitan city - and soon - his every waking hour was consumed by their excessive demands.

Unfortunately, Kevin and I lost touch.

Some days I fantasize that I’ll hop on a cable car and run smack dab into him unexpectedly out-of-the-blue.

Is he alive and well, I wonder now and then.

Occasionally, my thoughts also drift to a talented local artist - Roger Reyes - who I also struck up a bond with a couples of decades ago at the bustling San Francisco Arts Festival.

Again, a lively spirit from the past, that slipped away for some inexplicable reason.
 
For me, part of the attraction of San Francisco is its old-world charm.
 
There is a sense of history here that you don't encounter elsewhere around the country.
 
Cecil Beaton said it best:
 
"San Francisco is perhaps the most European of all American cities."
 
 

Palace of Fine Arts

 

http://www.thetattler.biz

The Big Lebowski...San Francisco tonight @ Metreon! Bowling, White Russians, & Cult hilarity!

When I cruised into the Metreon Theatre to catch "The American" yesterday, I spied a flyer for a regular weekly event now a popular mainstay every Friday night in the heart of the dynamic night-life of San Francisco.

The Big Lebowski
(Live on Stage)

In addition to a screening of the cult classic film, the show's presenters also offer up Bowling!

And, from what I understand, there is a cast of characters foot-loose in the theatre environs keeping the laughter to a fever pitch each week.

In Los Angeles, I attended a number of packed screenings at midnight under the auspices of the Insomniac Theatre (at the former Fairfax District Revival House on Beverly).

Post: 01/29/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/01/big-lebowskiscreens-at-insomniac-cinema.html

Post: 11/05/07

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2007/11/big-lebowskifans-storm-theatre-time-for.html

I was also invited to participate in the Big Lebowski podcast last year when die-hard fans started up the site which is thriving.

Post:  02/18/09

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/02/big-lebowskipodcast-up-and-running-dude.html

The madness of the Coen Brothers rages on!

See 'ya there!

Metreon Action Theatre
101 4th Street
San Francisco, CA

http://www.lebowskiovertheline.com
http://www.theatermania.com

http://www.thetattler.biz

Auspicious Numbers...death, change, and transformation! For moi...

Today, an auspicious turn of events signaled that the next week should prove to be a intriguing one, chock full of surprises,

When I checked in to my Hotel, for instance, I was assigned suite No. 19.

For those of you who grappled with the date when the calendar switched over to a fresh month (September), the numbers nine (9)  and one (1) probably stood out like sore thumbs.

Since I have studied numerology, and am familiar with the meaning a whole slew of numbers, it was a red letter day (so-to-speak).

Especially, when the Hotel room number (19) is taken into consideration.

On September (9th month) 1st (the first day of the 9th month) I rented a suite at - No. 19 - which is a combination of the two numbers in the actual date (1 & 9).

OMG!

The significance of it all did not escape my intuitive little mind.

No. 9 is a highly-spiritual “master” number which represents “transformation, change, and death."

There must have been a reason why John Lennon was intrigued by the number and sang its praises.

No. 1 - on the other hand - symbolizes new starts & beginnings in the spiritual scheme of things.

A coincidence?

I think not.

Essentially, the message rang out to me crystal clear.

A part of my existence is ending in a symbolic "death", for starters.

And, over the next week, I'll be laying a new foundation for a next decade or so - that ultimately - will result in a major transformation in my personal life, career, and spiritual affairs.

God Willing!

Now, if only that prediction in my fortune cookie would come true.

Who me, superstitious?

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

Recommended Hotels...San Francisco

 

Westin St. Francis Hotel

The Mosser Hotel

Howard Johnson Motel (Airport)

 

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

Paris Hilton...banned from Vegas Resort! Steve Wynn shame!

Only a stoned babe would pluck up a fashion disaster such as this

On the heels of the highly-publicized "cocaine' bust on Friday - heiress Paris Hilton - has been informed by Hotel Management that she is banned from venturing on Wynn properties on the glitzy Vegas strip in the near-or-distant future.

If you ask me, Steve Wynn jumped the gun.

His rush to judgment may prove to be an embarrassment in view of the facts.

For starters, Ms. Hilton has sworn up-and-down that the purse was borrowed from a pal - and that subsequently - the drugs seized by the men-in-blue that fateful night were not hers.

In an interesting twist to the intriguing scandal, the young woman who allegedly lent the designer bag to Paris, has laid claim to a stash of cash in excess of $1,000.00 also found in the inside confines of the wayward purse right alongside the mysterious vial of cocaine.

Curious, that!

I expect that if the case is finger-printed, the true culprit's identity will come to light.

Provided the police didn't botch the evidence, along the chain of command, that is.

Did the arresting officers carefully package the evidence to ensure its integrity was maintained during the course of the evening before it was placed in a lock-up box?

Or, did a sloppy copper obliterate all the fingerprints - thus ensuring that Ms. Hilton - remains "on the hook" for the alleged crime of possession?

As to Mr. Wynn -  in case he wasn't aware of the obvious - an individual is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law by their peers.

Not, by a lynch mob, Sir!

Par-tay favors abound with "in" crowd!

http://www.julianayrs.com

The American...George Clooney excels in thriller! Morality tale with Hitchcock undertones!

Occasionally, a compelling film with thought-provoking masterful celluloid strokes splashes across the silver screen, and subsequently, resonates with an audience (in spite of the fact it’s not a typical Hollywood-style big-budget smash-up or special effects CGI masterpiece crafted to dazzle and delight).

The American - a Focus Pictures production - uniquely fits the mold.

The thriller (starring a charismatic salt & pepper George Clooney) unravels slow and sure in the breath-taking opening scenes - then, quickly - kick-starts into high gear (in part) due to a series of spine-tingling plot twists that erupt unexpectedly out-of-the-blue.

Suddenly, the theatre-goer (on the edge of his or her seat by now), is propelled forward into the action for a wild ride that is not always gauged by tail-spin turns, screeching tires, or a bloody body count.

In fact, the American is a remarkable film in many respects, because of what it is not.

The scriptwriter (who adapted a best-selling book here) wisely chose not to rely on gimmicks (what has gone before) to appeal to the commercial mainstream - and in the process - avoided tired old clichés and stale plot scenarios to avoid breathing artifical life into what amounts to a gem of a movie.

Personally, I stared up fom the below the footlights and savored every deft Hitchcockian moment that happened along, totally absorbed.

In fact, each frame was not unlike a unique piece of a film puzzle - that eventually snapped  into focus just before the ending - when it dawned on the viewer that "The American" was a subtle morality tale along the old-fashioned traditions of spell-binding meticulous story-telling of yesteryear.

In a nutshell, Clooney’s character is an International spy - of sorts - forced to come out of hiding when a nasty posse of cut-throat killers are hired to terminate him.

In a sub-plot, the screenwriter fleshes out the tortured soul of a complex man - who is at times driven - by exotic sensual tastes as he yearns for intimacy late in life.

In spite of his normally-cool reserve and remarkable self-control in the dangerous high-stakes arena of espionage - in contrast - endless nights alone without companionship (he's an outsider who has been unable to savor the spoils of his success) have taken their toll.

Unlike studio honchos that often rely on formula - with a big dose of style over substance tossed in for good measure to seduce the hapless film buff -  the producers here rely on the intelligence of the sophisticated film enthusiast to fill in the gaps.

The strategy appears to be working - if the turn-out this afternoon in downtown San Francisco - is any indication.

Although the Clooney film was released today - mid-week on a Wednesday afternoon without a lot of frenzied fanfare - excited fans abandoned chores at home and loose-ends on work deadlines at the office to steal into the theatre to catch the flick before the dinner hour.

That's star-power, alright!

The icing on the cake?

Half-naked footage of Clooney reveals the hunk is still at the top of the heap in the stud department, too!

I wouldn't kick him out-of-bed for eating crackers, that's for sure!

Clooney character crafts high-powered rifle for Assassin!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

San Francisco...the Mosser Hotel delightful lodging!

Comfortable eye-catching interiors @ the Mosser Hotel!

The Mosser is a delightful boutique Hotel on 4th Street (just south of Market) that I stumbled on one trip to the bay area a scant few years ago.

In those heady days, before the economic crush, I often splurged on Hotel suites that boasted a flair and style all of their own, though a trifle higher in cost than I’d normally cough up today.

After an old turn-of-the-century lift jolted to a ceremonious stop on my floor - I was immediately bowled over when I strode into the luxurious-looking suite - and caught site of the expensive-looking fixtures which were effectively used to highlight design features in the modern refurbished room.

The sheets, bedspreads, and towels - boasted a threat count that cried out expensive - and were luxurious to the touch.

What particularly impressed me?

Without doubt the welcome tray adorned with orchids and a personal note from management, boding me well during the course of the stay in romantic San Francisco by the picturesque bay.

Although I was originally booked for one night, I stayed on for four, so  joyful was the experience.

The Mosser is just a hop-and-a-skip from a lot of the  cultural activity in the heart of the city, which makes for fun sun-soaked half-day forays into the neighborhood, without worry about losing one's way.

Downstairs, Annabelle’s - a restaurant with a known reputation in the city - awaits at the breakfast hour for the early riser where I expect a reasonably-priced buffet is still being served up daily.

Although I haven’t stayed in their lodgings for many moons now, I expect the same high standards of service are offered up by the owners, who have been mainstays in the community-at-large for years.

For a bit of old-world charm, book a suite here, with no regrets.

 

Grand old Dame that is the Mosser!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

San Francisco...Mayor Newsom's cheap 45 minute free Wi-Fi a joke!

Gadfly Mayor Newsom!

The thin-as-a-rail snake-oil-salesman - that is the one-and-only Mayor of San Francisco - is quite a piece of work.

Channel surf a smidgen when visiting the fair city by the Bay, and nine times out-of-ten, tourists will stumble on his likeness on a local cable outlet spouting off about this 'n that.

Any day now, I expect Mayor Newsom will be pitching for a reality show, to boost his image to voters around the State of California.

One of Newsom's claims to fame unfolded - when he took a stab at introducing the high-stakes world of Wi-Fi technology by offering up free Internet Access to savvy world-class travellers and common Joe's alike as they glided through the San Francisco airport daily.

At press junkets, His Honor patted himself on the back for lauching the SFO endeavour.

But, when tourists plunk themselves down for a stint at the laptop, it's apparent that Newsom leaves a lot to be desired in the credibility department.

At a time when most high-end coffee shops like Starbucks (McDonald's McCafe, too) are providing unlimited free Wi-Fi access to the thronging masses on-the-go - a splash box at the SFO site notes that the internet access is provided for a paltry forty-five minutes or so - before the plug gets pulled.

What if there is a flight delay?

Or, unexpected stormy weather back east strands loved ones in a snow drift on the tarmac somewhere?

How will the messages get back-and-forth to soothe the fears once the Wi-Fi goes kaput?

If 'ya ask me, the Mayor is a cheap skate!

Notwithstanding, I have to admit that the futuristic environs of the San Francisco Airport, are not half-bad when it comes to coolin' the heels for an hour or so.

If a traveller cruises into SFO on Bart, they are quickly wowed by eye-catching aesthetic surroundings that smack of a futurisic city.

One mural, abreast of an escalator, appears to be a shimmering green-inspired water-fountain - when, in fact - it is actually a clever artist's rendering that facilitates sheer fabric to fool even the keenest eye unless inspected up-close.

A monrail (featuring red & blue lines) - automated - whisks the upwardly mobile to a handful of terminals where they are quickly ushered to their destinations at airline counters, shuttle bus service centers, or well-wishers at curbside.

Throughout the lightweight facility - graced with soaring skylights and soothing interior reliefs - there is a lot of "greenery" which appeals to the human sensibilities.

Here, travel has become a fanciful foray into the welcome unknown, and no longer remains the dreary prospect that it was once in unimaginative eras of yesteryear when the concept of travel was all about practicality and utilitarian civic service.

Thank Newsom and the City Fathers for that much, at least!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com/

Flu shot...packs a whallop! Protection against Swine Flu & influenza!

For a moment ot two, I thought I was suffering from an allergic reaction to this year's flu shot, a few hours after the mysterious protective vacinne swept through my body.

Overnight, I began to experience discomfort in the vicinity of the needle injection - for instance - which continued far into the next morning.

At one point, I found myself suffering severe pain in the upper arm - in spite of the fact the Nurse promised - it would amount to a mere prick in the outer skin.

The rest of the day my arm was sore, makng it difficult to maneuver without discomfor, during the course of my tourist adventures here-and-there 'round town.

That evening - in my Hotel room (after I rolled up my sleeve to get a close-up gander at the injection site) - it  didn't escape my attention that part of the  limb was swollen and hard and sore to the touch.

Then, when I awoke the next morning, the pain was gone!

Officials have attempted to avoid long lines for the Swine Flu vaccines this year - which frustrated the screaming multitudes last fall - by being prepared for the rush this fall.

A record flu shot supply is on local shelves right now and ready for the teaming masses.

In fact, drugstores are offering up flu shots in their back-to-school sales gimmicks.

The vaccine includes an all-in-one shot that protects against the Swine Flu and two other kinds of Influenza expected to be prevalent in the fall of 2010 and winter of 2011.

A yearly flu vaccine is recommended for everyone except babies (six months or younger).

Although not exactly painless - such as the case with moi - the protection is a good idea at a time when viral outbreaks - of a myriad of nasty varieties - are plaguing the Nation.

Not always a painless prick!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com/

Princess Diana...psychic's contact hoghwash! Kenny Kingston exploits dead celebs!

Princess of Wales not amused by Kingston claims!

A local news outlet - of dubious repute - has reported that Princess Diana contacted a psychic from beyond the grave proclaiming  that her death was a well-planned accident.

Hollywood psychic Kenny Kingston alleges that he contacted the Duchess of Windsor, a former client when she was alive, during a séance at his Los Angeles home last week.

Kingston bases his ability to "contact" Lady Di on the grounds that the Duchess once introduced him to Princess Diana.

Hogwash!

Kenny Kingston, self-proclaimed psychic to the stars, has exploited Marilyn Monroe's death in the past - and now - appears to be attempting to do the same with the former Princess of Wales.

For example, in an interview with WENN News a few days ago, Mr. Kingston uttered up wild claims about a seance he conducted - in which he alleges - the spirit of Lady Di  made her spiriitual presence  known.

"The Duchess of Windsor originally greeted Diana on the other side because she felt a kinship to her, as both had been stripped of their royal titles. The Duchess looked immaculate in a white gown and she soon brought in Diana, looking radiant in a royal blue gown."

The shameful conduct persisted when he proceeded to offer up thoughts on the two young Princes.

"Diana told me she continues to watch over her 'boys,' as she still refers to them. She thinks Prince William will be the next monarch, with or without a wife and she is very proud of Prince Harry and the training he's received and feels there are great plans for him."

"Diana has come to the conclusion that the tragedy in the Alma Tunnel was no mistake," Kingston chirped without blinking-an-eye.

'It may have been an accident, but it was a well-planned one," the shady medium continued.

"This is contrary to what Diana's spirit had conveyed to me during a previous séance many years ago. It has taken her this period of time, she says, to gain her strength and to be able to see the truth."

Kingston swears that one of his eerie predictions - published  in a British newspaper - put her on alert during her final weeks on the face of the earth.

"Diana told me that when she told her butler, Paul Burrell, that she feared for her safety and sensed a danger period around a car, she was referring to my aura reading, which I revealed in the Daily Star newspaper. The aura reading had warned her of a danger period from July to November around fast-moving cars, and Diana took it to heart."

A lot of good it did, right?

The truth of the matter is that Mr. Kingston is not an authentic psychic.  In fact, he is a charlatan.

Years ago, I attended one of his sessions in Los Angeles, and found out first hand.

For example  - at one point during the session - Mr. Kingston approached me in the audience and asked that I hand over a set of my keys.

At this juncture, he informed the audience in no uncertain terms, that I was in the real-estate business.

Wrong!

I have always been involved in the fine arts -  and have never ventured into the arena he referred to as my line of employ - in any capacity.

Likewise, Mr. Kingston stumbled through conversations with other guests present, generally offering up predictions that were about ninety-percent "incorrect" for the most part.

In the final analysis, Mr. Kingston has all the psychic pereceptions of a cold dead fish, in my estimation.

The nerve of some classless demented folks out to make a buck!

Quack psychic a charlatan!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

Barack Obama...Oval Office make-over signals 2nd Term expectations!

President Truman's Oval Office

(1948)

Desk shot of Prez ignores decor in Oval Office

A make-over in the Oval Office signals that President Obama was either tired of toiling away in the shadow of George W. Bush - or is sending a signal to the American voter - that he intends to stay for the long haul (a 2nd term) in spite of ominous polls that underscore his approval rating has been down.

The President's office in the West Wing was refurbished while the Obama family was away on vacation recently in Martha's Vineyard.

The face-lift included a spanking new rug, fresh wallpaper (American-made), new paint (one coat covers a multitude of sins, they say), and a few sticks of distinctive furniture positioned here-and-there strategically about the stately office.

To stave off the critics, the President's staff noted in a recent press release, that the designer detailing was all carried out without any expense to the taxpayer.

An Obama spokesperson underscored that the undertaking was a bold-faced effort to put a "stamp" on the Oval Office that uniquely reflected the Barack Obama in style.

Well, the "look" is kinder to the sensibilities than those old "mom" jeans the President wears, I dare say!

The President's request for an oval-shaped rug - wheat- ande cream-colored with blue stripes on the edges bordering a series of quotes - is a lovely touch.

Four of the five quotes are from previous Presidents - Kennedy, Lincoln - and both Roosevelts.

The fifth quote, by Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., is probably Obama's favorite.

"The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice."

A rug that rested in the spot previously, got the heave-ho, in spite of the fact it was designed by former 1st Lady Laura Bush for her husband, George
.
In January of 2009, Bill Clinton was overheard to remark that "he loved" the rug with the sunbeam motif.

Maybe the President will pass it on to slick Willy for a keepsake - or at a minimum - for future posterity?

Press Secretary Robert Gibbs described the renovations as "very modest".

The total cost was "comparable" to what former Presidents George W. Bush and Clinton spent.

The White House Endowment Trust - which received a donation from Obama's Presidential Inaugural Committee - coughed up the funds.

Some critics are miffed that the President's staff - not only  held back on the total costs involved - but - refused to disclose the names of the donors involved.

Maria Downs, former social secretary to President Ford who now works at the White House, said that since the modern Oval Office was renovated in 1934, most Presidents have chosen to customize the room (changing everything from the color scheme to the drapes and artwork).

"They're the President. They can do whatever they want to their office," she said.

Just don't ask them to step in and tell a corporate entity like BP what to do when a crisis arises!

Oval Office before Obama tampering!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

San Francisco...Howard Johnson @ Airport great Hotel deal!

If you're cruising through the Bay area and find yourself in need of lodging for the night at the San Francisco Airport, check out Howard Johnson's @ 222 South Airport Boulevard in the heart of South Francisco.

A shuttle is available at terminal 3, so once you arrive at the airport, leave the driving to the Hotel staff who will whisk you away from the hustle and bustle of the  high-energy hub that is SFO.

Once you're booked in, by pleasant talkative staff at the desk, there will be about 100 channels to choose from on the high-tech state-of-the-art TV set.

There is also a desk with comfy leather arm chair - and free Internet Wi-FI access - in the event there is a need to catch up on business or take care of your chores online while you're out-of-town.

The morning staff lay out a great breakfast spread that's gratis and includes fresh orange juice, hot coffee, tea, breakfast cereal (hot or cold), toast, pastries, muffins, and bagels & cream cheese.

If you're like me and go for a hearty nutritious breakfast to start the day off right, you'll no doubt chow down on the tasty bill-of-fare which is fresh and tasty.

The Hotel also provides a free copy of USA Today, for a quick catch-up on the morning news, to boot.

While the environs are not luxurious, they are clean and comfortable, and rate a 3 stars.

Enjoy!

Futuristic San Francisco Terminals

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Barack Obama...News alert! No "Mission Accomplished" in Iraq! Prez's Vietnam?

In preparing a speech to the Nation to be broadcast tonight - the President admitted to his handlers (according to insiders) - that a formal announcement about the end of the War in Iraq - would fall short of being one that touted a "Mission" accomplished.

After all, that simply was not the case.

Critics are still grumbling that although there has been a "stand down" - and the conflict is considered at a close pending tonight's acknowledgement formally by the President - that troops have basically been re-assigned (so-to-speak).

The truth of the matter is, the U.S. armed forces will remain in Iraq until next year when they are expeced to withdraw lock, stock, and barrel.

But, one official let it slip this morning that - if a conflict arose while the troops were still stationed overseas in Iraq - they would be given their marching orders once again.

In a nutshell, isn't the President playing fast-and-loose with this war - one that has become his own historical Vietnam (in spite of the fact he inherited the U.S. Imperialist invasion from Bush) - in a bold-faced effort to hoodwink the American people?

I think so, when the voter considers his political posturing, just now.

Tonight, for instance, in a preamble to the body of his speech, Obama starts off by "praising the courage and resolve of the American troops in Iraq" and saying "the human and financial price showed selfless sacrifice."

And, he'll facilitate an old familiar cliche to signal it's time to move on.

"It's time to turn the page", he'll utter up tonight, as if he coined the phrase.

And, he'll follow up with a startling (!) reason why.

"There are pressing problems at home."

You don't say!

And, he'll hand it to the Americans for allowing the President to do it "his way"

"The United States has paid a huge price to put the future of Iraq in the hands of its people," he said in an excerpt released just before the speech commenced on the East Coast in the Oval Office at 8 p.m.

"We have persevered because of a belief we share with the Iraqi people - a belief that out of the ashes of war - a new beginning could be born in this cradle of civilization."

Ah, the Phoenix has risen!

News at 11!

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Zsa Zsa Gabor...News alert! Rushed to hospital! Prince & Show biz Queen saga!

Zsa Zsa & the fake Prince!

Hungarian beauty Zsa Zsa Gabor has been rushed to the hospital after her husband - Frederick Prinz von Anhalt - found the ailing actress unresponsive early this morning.

A spokesman for  the aling actress has confirmed that since her initial visit to the hospital a few weeks ago to mend a broken hip, Gabor has suffered a series of setbacks with her health which have left her disabled to date (and in need of medical care on a daily basis).

I reported on the matter earlier in recent weeks.

Post: 08/1610  (Hospital Release)

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/08/zsa-zsa-gabornews-alert-star-given-last.html

Post:  08/12/10  (Paparazzi)

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/08/zsa-zsa-gaborpaparazzi-frenzy-during.html

No further details about Ms. Gabor's immediate medical condition are currently available.

Expecting the worst, Ms. Gabor - still glam at 93 years of age - requested her last  rites from a priest during her brief stay at the hospital in July.

Doctors recommended surgery on her liver to extend her life (with a 50-50 chance of survival) - but the aging actress and the "Prince" - elected for her to return home to spend her final days in the comfort of her luxurious digs in Bel Air.

Frederick Prinz Von Anhalt was not born a "Prince" or blue blood, but came by the title when he married a elderly member of a European Family.

To many, the betrothal to Von Anhalt was Gabor's lofty stab at becoming "Royalty" by virtue of her union with the foreign born gentleman.

Like Barack Obama, questions about his birthright still hound him!

The Hungarian-born Gabor has appeared in more than 30 movies - a stand-out being - Moulin Rouge.

There were also campy stints on Batman - a TV hit - in the 60's.

Ms. Gabor was a perennial guest on the Merv Giffin show - often with her two dazzling sisters in tow (Eva & Magda) - which prompted many critics to snidely remark that the trio were simply famous for being famous.

What did they do, after all?

Mr. Griffen, known to be gay in show biz circles behind-the-scenes, often facilitated Eva Gabor as a beard to fool American TV viewers at the height of the popularity of his talk show, and at a time when homosexuality was not an acceptable lifestyle in mainstream U.S.A.

Gabor appeared to always be in healthy competition with Elizabeth Taylor, by the way.

Both sirens have trotted to the altar at least 9 times to tie the knot.

Ms. Gabor is well-known for her marriage to Conrad Hilton, while Ms. Taylor is famous for winning the heart of Welsh actor Richard Burton (they were married twice) during the filming of Cleopatra which caused an International scandal. 

After all, Liz & Dick were both married to others.

But, that little hitch never stopped either Zsa Zsa or LA Liz from going after the man they pined for.

All is fair and love & war, eh?

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

Wayne Newton...jet ends up baggage! Crooner coughs up $$$ owed!

Folks have been all a-twitter about Wayne Newton's Jet fiasco!

In retrospect - when the sad report on the clunker that returned to Vegas as baggage was nvestigated from behind-the-scenes, the end scenario made a lot of sense.

When Mr. Newton  previously abandoned the plane in Detroit a few years ago, he was obviously low on cash

After all, he wasn't working in a steady gig!

Subsequently, he got behind on payments - which included back wages - owed a pilot.

However, as I reported a few months ago, Newton managed to seal a deal with a major Hotel on the strip  to perform Live! once again to the delight of his fans.

Now that the cash is flowing, Mr. Las Vegas is simply catching up on overdue financial obligations, which makes sense.

Shipping the plane back to Nevada in pieces - and parking the crates at his luxury ranch at the Casa de Shenandoah estate in Las Vegas - hardly appears to be unusual under the cicumstances.

In fact, once the disassembled jet made the the long haul from Michigan to Nevada without mishap, it was put back together again piece by piece.

The difference between the men and the boys is not only the price of their toys - but how they manage to hold on to them when misfortune befalls 'em - without doubt.

Newton extravagant lifestyle!

http://www.julian1st.wordpresss.com

McDonald's Gay Commercial...french so subtle & sophisticated!

If  you are  a resident of France and caught the subtle McDonald's commercial on the little black box, chances are, you may not have given the blurb promoting the fast-food take-out joint a second thought.

Unless, you were quick on the uptake, of course.

Those frenchies are so low-key, after all.

In the two-minute spot, a cute young man plucks up a ringing cell phone - and dreamily glances down at a class photo in his hand - as he sighs and speaks into the receiver with a romantic tinge in his voice:

"I miss you."

On the other end of the line, a male voice chimes in.

"I miss you, too."

At this point, an older gent strolls over to the table with a tray loaded down with french fries, soft drinks, and a couple-of tasty-looking burgers with all the fixin's in tow.

As he glides into his seat, he casually peers down at the photograph and utters up a sly comment.

"I used to be quite the ladies man when I was younger. Too bad the class was all boys," he chuckled, without a clue in the world.

The man is the young boy's father, after all.

And, the handsome lad is a gay teen, connecting with his boyfriend on his cell for a second or two.

In France, the ad was broadcast with barely a ripple of controversy.

Elsewhere, however, a roar erupted around all corners of the globe when some dude published the video on YouTube.

In two seconds flat, McDonald's was able to boast a million plus clicks as die-hard gay and gay-curious burger-eaters chased the video down for a scant look-see.

"We wanted to show society the way it is today, without judging...there's obviously no problem with homosexuality in France today," the brand director for McDonald's (France) noted for the record on a French Web site.

According to Canada.com, the clip is the first ad from McDonald's to feature a gay character.

Needless to say, support from the gay community has been very positive.

"It's great that McDonald's is putting it out there, and kudos to the creative team. It's certainly a step in the right direction," Helen Kennedy, executive director of EGALE Canada, remarked.

Australia's Brisbane Times explains dismissed the ad as just one in a series that aims to "recognise the diversity of McDonald's customers in France".

Australian Coalition for Equality spokesman Rodney Croome called the ad "refreshingly realistic" and "groundbreaking" in that it takes place in "one of the world's most mainstream institutions.

In a a poll conducted by the Brisbane Times -  82% of the residents - found the ad charming.

And, you thought, the arches symbolized "back to the breast"!

On the other end of the spectrum, 18% found the imaginative commercial "alarming".

According to the New York Times, Planet Homo, was angry too.

In their mind's eye, the subliminal message was crystal clear.

Young men are still reluctant to reveal their sexuality to their fathers.

in and caught the spot on an overhead screen, I got the impression that it was a young man out on a date with his sugar daddy!

Just call me a sophisticated man of the world!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

San Francisco...Castro Theatre celebrates blonde bombshells! Marilyn Monroe!

What's with the black suits?

As I strode up Castro a short while ago to pluck up an order of white rice and shrimp dumpling, I was forced to sidestep a pride of gay dudes out-fitted in dark suits, milling about in front of the Castro Theatre.

Friday August 27th thru Sunday September 5th, film buffs are paying tribute to Blonde Bombshells.

And, with a little style, to boot!

In addition to the sharp suits, a handful of the film enthusiasts are making grand entrances at the front of the Art Deco Theatre in vintage period autos.

A double-bill tonight featuring two flicks - "Gentlemen Prefer Blonds" & "The Girl can't help it" - are packing 'em in.

If you missed the sensual romps tonight on the silver screen, there is always the classic "Bus Stop" to take in on Monday night (starring Marilyn Monroe).

See 'ya there!

Info & Tickets

http://www.castrotheatre.com

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