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JULIAN AYRS & THE TATTLER

After a writer's block that lasted about ten years, a brief stint blogging (an icky term, I despise, by the way) on a Fox site - "On the Lot" - got my creative juices flowing once again.

And, the vastly insightful experience brought a lot of exposure for me, too.
No wonder!

The brass at Fox often featured my posts on the studio's homepage.

Go figure.

Though, the 4th Network's foray into the realms of reality television (the weekly show focused on fledgling filmmakers reaching for the elusive brass ring in Hollywood) faltered after one season - I, for one - moved on without looking back to google's high-ranked blogspot after being showered oodles of notoriety and fame.

Gosh, I can't walk down the street anymore without someone recognizing me.

By the way, for approximately five years now, "The Tattler" has been publishing informative features on a wide-range of topics - that I trust have been enlightening, too - which have included juicy tidbits on celebrities, political commentary, movie reviews, and what-have-you (as the "Dude" would say).

In addition, I have always endeavoured to publish articles on issues that are of concern to the community, too, such as those pertaining to the environment, equality, and civil rights.

A slice of life, alright!

But, it is always a struggle to stay afloat financially, of course.

Consequently, donations are always appreciated.

So, if "The Tattler" has been entertaining, or provided useful information that you have availed yourself of, kindly consider dropping a penny or two into the piggie, eh?

Much appreciated!
CONTRIBUTIONS & STORY IDEAS

Regular readers of the Tattler (and Internet browsers who sporadically cruise by the blog site) are invited to get more actively involved by submitting a story idea to the editor - Julian Ayrs - for consideration.


In the alternative, supporters may pledge their support with a cash donation to help defray the costs involved with publishing daily posts.

CONTACT

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Julian Ayrs
Editor & Publisher
The Tattler


i.julian@blogspot.com



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Friends, countrymen, Bloggers!

Oprah Winfrey...gay rumors fueled by camping trip with sidekick!

 

Yes, Oprah headed for the secluded back-hills this weekend with gal pal, Gayle King, who works side-by-side the outspoken talk show hostess (slated to pack up lock, stock, & barrel and move over to cable at the end of the year).

Uh-huh!

Tongues are wagging, alright.

Instead of taking along alleged boy-toy - Steadman (her long-time pussy beard) - Oprah made a romantic bid for a quiet little weekend get-a-away in the bush (no pun intended) with her girl Friday (who some say is her secret lesbian lover).

Who do you suppose is top?

Yes, Oprah & Gayle King have taken a respite from it all - and gone fly-fishing (!) and camping (!) and what-have-you.

Just betcha, they'll be squatting in the bushes to take an organic twinkle now and then - too!

Nothing like a romantic clinch under a canopy of stars, when the wolves are at bay, eh?

News at 11!

http://www.thetattler.biz

As pretty as two black-eyed peas!

A.I.D.S. Walk Los Angeles..actor Hal Sparks, Mayor Villaraigosa & Ana Ortiz attend! Fundraiser big draw!

Still time to sign up & Register for A.I.D.S. Walk Los Angeles!

 

Well, it's that time again!

Thousands of California residents - from far-and-wide - will stridently head into West Hollywood tomorrow morning (Sunday Oct. 17th) to participate in (or just cheer on) the annual A.I.D.S. Walk.

At last count, there will be 30,000 strong marching to raise funds for A.I.D.S. research and to help provide benefits (such as low-cost housing and prescription drugs) to the needy afflicted with the killer disease.

For example, since its inception in 1985, AIDS Walk  has benefited AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA), an AIDS service organization dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by HIV disease; reducing the incidence of HIV infection; and advocating for fair and effective HIV–related public policy.

AIDS Walk Los Angeles makes it possible for APLA to provide urgently needed food, dental care, safe housing, and much more to people with HIV/AIDS who also face poverty, hunger, and homelessness.

APLA also runs the county’s largest network of HIV prevention programs with the hope of ending the epidemic in Los Angeles.

As usual, a host of celebrated guests are expected to turn up at the podium to utter up a glut of inspiring pep talks,  sure to get the walkers in a festive mood for the occasion once again.

Keep you eyes out for Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, West Hollywood Mayor John Heilman, and celebrity guests Bob Harper, Pauley Perrette, Ana Ortiz, Sara Ramirez, Michael Urie, LaKisha Jones, Hal Sparks, Megan Boone, Sam Jaeger,  Joshua Gomez, Michelle Bonilla, and Barrett Foa.

There's still time to register,  join in on the fun, and make a contribution:

http://www.aidswalk.net/losangeles/
Once the fundraisers cross the finish line, there will be an upbeat post-Walk party in front of the stage - featuring local KIIS-FM DJ Jay Rodriguez - and some of L.A.’s finest food trucks!

Free parking and shuttle service are available at the Beverly Connection parking structure (enter from La Cienega), Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (enter from Gracie Allen Way or George Burns Road), or 8899 Beverly Boulevard (between Doheny and Robertson).

Free parking is not available this year at the Pacific Design Center.

BOO!

Boy, are they on the wrong page, eh?

Maybe the community should stop shopping at the Pacific Design Center to show how it feels about their lack of support!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

AIDS Walk Los Angeles Information:

Date:

Sunday, October 17th

Time:

8:30 a.m. Sign-In
9:15 a.m. Opening Ceremony
10:00 a.m. Walk Begins

Location:

West Hollywood Park
647 N. San Vicente Blvd. in West Hollywood

Length of Walk:
10 kilometers / 6.2 miles

See 'ya there!

http://www.thetatter.biz

Queer as Folk star Hal Sparks to appear!

(far right)

Ann Margaret...CSI guest star! Elvis dance partner going strong!

Did ever wonder what happened to sex kitten Ann Margaret?

The stunning beauty - a sizzling sexy dance partner of the late-great Elvis Presley (brief romantic fling?) - just wrapped up a stint on CSI after years of steering clear of the glaring spotlight.

Film buffs will recall that Ms. Margaret starred opposite Elvis in Viva Las Vegas.

The classic movie is regarded by many as one of Presley's best movies, which was attributed to the strong screen attraction between the "King" and leading lady Ann Margaret.

The box-office hit - which boasted ten extravagant musical numbers, was posted at No. 11 in the Top 20 Movie Box Office offerings of 1964.

The breathy star always remained respectful of “El” - even after he passed to spirit - and never tried to capitalize on her relationship (in-front-of or behind the cameras) with the King (unlike the other hangers-on in the inner circle).

In fact, in her own memoirs, Ms. Margaret referred to Elvis as her "soul mate".

The legendary hip-swiveller was quite fond of the gorgeous Ms. Margaret, too.

No wonder!

Ms. Margaret has always been a class act.

Fans may recall that the fifty’s triple threat (dancer/singer/actress) was unexpectedly sidelined for a short period because of a serious injury she suffered due to a terrible stage accident which broke a few bones and shook her up somewhat.

On Sunday, September 10 (1972) while performing at Lake Tahoe, the legend fell 22 feet from an elevated platform to the stage and suffered a broken left arm, cheekbone and jawbone.

At the UCLA treatment center in Los Angeles, the star received meticulous reconstructive surgery to her face that required wiring her mouth shut and putting her on a liquid diet.

The dazzling talent was unable to work for ten weeks, but ultimately - trooper that she was - managed to return to work shortly after that to continue her contractual commitments.

Needless to say, the pretty star was valiant through it all.

I have always had a soft spot in my heart for the stunning beauty.

Ann-Margaret established her “acting chops” to serious critics in a break-out role in "52 Pick Up" starring opposite Roy Scheider.

It's a role worth catching on film today, if you’re a big Ann-Margaret fan.

Actor John Glover put it succinctly when he quipped of Margaret’s character in the flick:

“She’s still got a lot of good mileage on her.”

That appears to apply today, as the ET interview proved this week, when she chatted up the host about her acting gig on CSI.

In spite of Entertainment Tonight’s sly effort to get up-close - and surreptitiously establish whether the star may have had plastic surgery in recent days - Ms. Margaret held up well under close scrutiny.

If Joan Rivers is a poster woman for what can go wrong under the knife, Ms. Margaret is an example of what a surgeon - with expert skilled hands - can accomplish.

Ann-Margret was born in Stockholm, but spent her childhood years in Valsjöbyn, a small rural locale she described as a small town of lumberjacks and farmers.

Ann-Margret moved to the United States in November 1946 with her mother and father.

They settled just outside of Chicago in Wilmette (Illinois).

Ms. Margaret showed great dance ability when she first took lessons at the Marjorie Young School of Dance, and so, her supportive parents helped nudge her in that direction.

In 1961, she was invited to take a screen test at 20th Century Fox and was subsequently signed to a seven-year contract.

Ann-Margret made her film debut in "Pocketful of Miracles" starring opposite with Bette Davis and directed by Frank Capra.

There was no looking back for Ann-Margaret!

Miss Margaret married her long-time Business Manager - Roger Smith - and the two have savored a lasting romantic relationship.

They have cut a fine swath together at appearances around Tinsel Town over the years.

In recent years, the aging beauty has been a bit reclusive, so it was a joy to catch clips of her upcoming stint on the highly-rated drama show - CSI - in which she plays a philanthropist who is stalked by a maniac.

Congrats on the juicy part, Ann-Margaret!

http://www.thetattler.biz

San Francisco...Trolley Dances! In-the-round performances on streetcars!

Trolley Troupe Streetcar antics!

 

What a novel idea!

A local choreographer  has whipped up a couple of innovative dances routines with the special aim of taking the world by storm.

Well, one street car at a time, for starters.

“Art isn’t just for the person who can pay $30 to get into a show,” Kim Epifano chirped to the local media as she feverishly put finishing touches on the innovative “in the round” performance pieces to play out on Muni’s N-Judah line this weekend in San Francisco.

For the cost of a streetcar ticket ($2 regular fare) riders will be treated to entertaining shows.

Six dance troupes are involved - including the celebrated Goode Performance Group - who will perform alongside lesser-known companies such as the Sunset Chinese Folk Dance

The annual event has been entertaining the locals (and tourists alike) for 7 years.

Understandably, preparations for the successful trolley dances have become a full-time enterprise.

Six guided tours make up the programs to be presented between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2:45 daily on the weekend.

The creative tour de force starts at - Duboce Park, heads through Duboce Triangle, Cole Valley, and the inner Sunset - to end at the Botanical Garden in Golden Gate Park.

At salients points along the route, there will be performances off the trolley too.
Folks on the go are welcome to catch snippets of the traveling dance show for free from the sidelines on the street for free.

Beverages and snacks are not available, so guests are urged to bring their own.

Break a leg, Ms. Epifano, eh?

Location
Harvey Milk Center for Recreational Arts

Dates
Saturday & Sunday

Performances
11 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Tours every 45 minutes

Tickets
$2 Muni Fare

Contact
415.226.1139
www.epiphanydance.org

 

http://www.thetattler.biz/

Michelle Obama...Sarah Palin takes pot shots! 65 percent approval rate!

 

Michelle's wave of popularity

 

Michelle Obama enthusiastically hit the campaign trail this past week - and for the most part - was warmly-received by voters around the country whenever she touched-down to offer up a pep talk.

A poll - which established the gracious 1st Lady’s approval rate was up to an all-time high of sixty-five percent - inspired curious quips from media hounds on the sidelines.

“She’s a rock star,” one upbeat reporter joked on the nightly news.

Political analysts noted that Mrs. Obama’s was in an enviable position.

“Because she is not running for an office, Michelle doesn’t have to attack the opposition. Unlike candidates stumping for votes, she can rise above the fray in a dignified manner.”

That has not deterred one political opponent from bad-mouthing the 1st Lady, though.

At a rally just yesterday, former VP hopeful - Sarah Palin - was inclined to take a poke at Barack’s better half.

The folksy tea party politico revisited a touchy subject which ended up triggering a negative response from the audience.

Uh-huh.

Palin’s lament over Mrs. Obama’s previous remarks about being proud to be an “American” for the first time - which caused an uproar on the campaign trail last year - fell on deaf ears on this occasion.

Although voters forgave and moved on, Palin’s attempt to breathe life into a dead issue - flog a dead horse - didn’t bode well for her.

Boos from the audience underscored that Palin's attacks were not appreciated by many at the rally.

In fact - in a recent poll - fifty-six percent of the voters said they would not vote for any candidate that was being endorsed by Sarah Palin.

Ouch!

Meanwhile, Mrs. Obama continues to soar above Palin in popularity, for obvious reasons.

You can’t buy “class”, Sarah.

You either have it or ‘ya don’t.
 
By the way, Michelle Obama made by Best-dressed list this past year.

Check it out:
 
Post: 12/31/09
 
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2009/12/julian-ayrs-2nd-annual-worst-best_6091.html
 
 
 

Sarah Palin takes pot shots at Michelle Obama

 
 

http://www.thetattler

Dave Letterman...Sean Diddy Combs cock tease! Sex-texting makes host blush!

Dave has elegant taste in ties!

The guest segment was titillating, to say the least.

And, right out of the starter's gate - shortly after Sean Diddy Combs alighted on Dave's couch - his "glassy-eyed" stare said it all.

The controversial front man was high on something.

Just maybe, that was why he was in such a horny mood, eh?

What else would account for his diarrhea of the mouth on the subject of sex-texting?

Was he so oblivious to the fact he was embarrassing Letterman - who turned beet red a few minutes into the jaw-dropping in-your-groin chat - by openly gossiping about Brett Favre's addictive past-time of  exposing his penis on a communication device?

"Actually, if you use a certain Blackberry at a  particular angle, it makes your penis look bigger," he wickedly pointed out to Dave.

"So, of course, you're going to want to show it off to everyone," he blurted out with a suggestive grunt.
Ooops!

What do they say about loose lips sinking ships?

A comment about "fish eye" lenses underscored that Sean Diddly Combs has  undoubtedly been  experimenting with the possibilities.

Fortunately, unlike Diddy, I don't need any props to entice potential lovers.

Maybe folks are mistaken.

Once you've had Black - in the case of Bo Diddy Combs, anyway - you always go back?

At this point, Combs touted the notion - that spicing things up with lovers - was a sexy way to keep the juices flowing.

Do 'ya suppose he has to take Viagra, too?

When Dave dragged out a publicity still of Combs standing astride a likeness of the pop star at Madame Tussuad's Museum, he waxed poetic.

"I've got my double at Tussuad's, and a star on the Hollywood strip, so I feel like showing off my penis right now," he joked, half-seriously.

In addition, the black rapper had some words of advice to nubile novices, to avoid scandal or too much "exposure" on the National tabloid news outlets.

"Cut off the head, though. Just show your naked body from the neck down," he dead-panned to the rapt audience who sat stone-faced and shocked by the racy explicit dialogue.

"How many of you haven't shown your naked body parts to a loved one," he quizzed, at this juncture.

There wasn't any show of hands, so just maybe, studio fans were also caught with their dicks - and what-have-you - in the wringer, too.

Gotcha!

Dave worried about the radiation.

"I wouldn't want to show my thing," he adamantly stated for the record.

"I feel for Favre. He's a great pro ball player," Combs gushed in response, in so many words.

"So, if he wants to share his naked penis on his cell, that's okay by me," he continued non-plussed.

"But I thought it was kind of a mass mailing," Letterman quipped - at which point - the guests in the stands roared.

"It was kind-of like - 'Here it is' - Dave guffawed.

"Anyone want it?"

Oh boy, nothing worse than sloppy seconds!

Sean Diddy Combs anxious to show off penis

http://www.thetattler.biz/

Barack Obama...gays born that way! Homo 101 seeks Campus votes!

 

And Jerry Brown thought Meg Whitman was a whore!

Yesterday, on the campaign trail, Barrack Obama uttered up a few startling comments on the subject of homosexuality, that left a few of his critics wondering what he was up to.

For example, he noted matter-of-fact to a posse of students on campus, that the gay lifestyle was not a "choice" by any stretch of the imagination.

"They (members of the LGBT community) were born that way," he asserted, without any apparent qualms about making such a sweeping controversial statement.

"We're all God's children," he solemnly preached, to all within earshot.

And, on that premise, the President took a leap of faith when he concluded - if you read between the lines - that the Lord intended it that way.

The Almighty doesn't make mistakes, after all.

I expect that when the word gets out today - to religious fundamentalists around the country - that there will be he** to pay for his stance on the subject.

Since Barack is an intelligent gent - keenly aware of the potential repercussions of his actions (especially mind-boggling ones that fly in the face of reason) - it begs the question.

Why the crash course on Homo 101?

For starters, I expect it was a bid for the youth vote, once again.

This time around, though, he is not the Saviour heralding change.

He already blew that one, in the eyes of the innocents, after all.

Just maybe, the gut-wrenching widespread reaction to the tragedy of a teen suicide in recent days, convinced  Obama there was a voting block all-primed and at-the-ready to snatch up from the jaws of hysteria?

News at 11!

One for gays & their supporters on campus!

http://www.thetattler.biz



San Francisco...foreigners @ Sonoma Liquor store harass whites! Wrinkly-old-dudes blamed for oppression!

Offensive Canadian Quarter draws ire of foreigner!

Since my late visit to San Francisco, a foreign element has crept into the city, much to the city’s detriment.

I’m not talking about tourists, of course, who travel here to catch the sights - then, move on to other climbs - before heading home overseas.

At a handful of local shops, in ethic neighborhoods around the city - even in tourist areas - there appears to be a prejudice against whites which is alarming.

Tourists complain, for example, that shop-keepers in Chinatown rarely communicate much more than a grunt, whenever they saunter in and purchase a souvenir or two.

I suppose the whole concept of "service with a smile" is too civilized (or sophisticated) a notion for the Chinese to fathom.

Elsewhere, hostilities towards Anglo-Saxon Americans, have caused the silliest confrontations to arise, which mask the awful truth ad nauseam.

Whites in San Francisco are mostly resented - or hated outright - by minorities.

For example, one day when I stepped into Sonoma Liquors - a variety store at 65 6th Street (on my way to the arts district) I encountered an unpleasant foreign-looking cashier behind the counter.

An incident occurred over of a lowly quarter!

Talk about petty!

Earlier that morning, after cashing a twenty-dollar bill, I ended up with about a dollar’s worth of loose change in my pocket.

Because I am a trustworthy individual - and not a cheap person by any stretch of the imagination - I did not count the coins the 711 cashier handed back to me on South Market Street.

Big mistake!

In retrospect, it appears that the young man handed over a Canadian twenty-five-cent coin (a quarter) - by mistake or knowingly ( to get rid of the wretched coin).

In a heavily-touristed area, foreign coins slipping into the regular cash flow around the city, is not a difficult occurrence to figure out for a half-way intelligent person.

When I proceeded to pay for a beverage later in the day, at Sonoma Liquor on 6th (just below Market) the clerk went on the rag when he noticed the offending Canadian coin mixed in with the loose change I handed him..

“This is a Canadian,” he barked at me, as he viewed it with great disdain.

Frankly, I hadn’t even noticed!

What irked me most was the impression I got from his demeanor.

Did he honestly think I was trying to slip a lousy quarter by him to recover a few cents?

Before I could offer up a defense, he glared at me, then retorted snidely.

“I’m throwing this quarter in the trash!”

Before he could drop the coin into a garbage bin at his side, I cautioned him in so many words to hold on to his horses, though.

For starters, what right did he have to toss my money - Canadian or otherwise - into the trash?

Notwithstanding the obvious, I was quite offended by his attitude.

Canadian money - like currency in the U.S. - is legal tender.

In fact, in some parts of the country - closer to the border - U.S. merchants accept the coins for their silver content or because it is just simply good business to do so.

Moreover, what right did this a**hole have to toss my “money” into the trash without my permission or due consideration?

This is the type of humiliation Americans (and Canadians) are forced to deal with daily because of a foreign element populating these shores in recent years who are ignorant about our laws, traditions, and overall culture (and its values).

When folks lament that the U.S. - and big American cities in general - are becoming a third-world disgrace, well, they’re not far off in that assessment in my estimation.

I don’t begrudge these individuals the right to immigrate to North America, to seek a better life for either themselves or their families.

What does upset me is to be forced to face discrimination daily - simply because I am part of the white educated middle class - that these foreigners hate because they are under the mistaken impression we are responsible for their alleged oppression.

Bullsh**!

http://www.thetattler.biz



Medical problems...early diagnosis & treatment important!



A battery of doctors search for medical treatment!

This past week, I was thrust into a frightening situation that underscored how important it is to have a medical problem properly diagnosed - and promptly  treated, of course - to ensure the ailment is held at bay and under control (if not cured outright).

The sun was lazily beating down from a cloudless pristine blue sky, when I slowed to a halt at the curb at Market Street and Church to obey a red light day-before-yesterday in the Castro District.

When the signal changed, I started to step forward into the crosswalk, when - suddenly without warning - my leg muscles seized up from the knees down to the ankles making it difficult to maneuver.

Imagine trying to trying to walk on limbs made of sticks - without any joints or flexibility to help propel ’ya along - that’s what the terrifying experience was like.

But, the nightmare was far from over.

As I struggled to regain control over my over my lower limbs, I lost my balance.

For the next few minutes, I found myself flailing my arms in the air trying to regain an upright position, so I could quickly limp out-of-harm’s way.

The light had changed - and at this point - I nearly fell backward into an oncoming vehicle turning out of a side street onto Market.

I was in a panic.

Meanwhile, a few passers-by stood a few feet away, staring at me in disbelief.

Did they think I was a sailor who blew-into-town with the fleet - and after a couple of stiff ones - was two  sheets to the wind?

Within about five minutes, the cramping dissipated, and I was right as rain.

But, a terrible pall - deep depression - fell over me.

For the past year, I have suffered these unexpected crippling bouts of muscles cramps - in the feet, and the legs - even the stomach on occasion - without any relief on the horizon.

I have discussed the ailment with a half-a-dozen doctors over the past few months, but none of the physicians have been able to fathom the origins of the sudden attacks which descend on me without mercy at whim.

One doctor speculated I may be low on potassium, so he offered up a prescription, with the aim of resolving the problem.

Nope!

I still wake up in the middle of the night in deep pain.

Often, my hands cramp up, when I am inputting data into my laptop.

The fingers are so gnarled at the start of the episode, that I am unable to complete the task at hand, or even turn off the computer.

Shortly after these violent attacks descend out-of-the-blue - they disappear just as quickly - at which point I plummet into a deep funk unsure about which way to turn.

But, the muscle spasms this week on the street, were the most terrifying  to date.

What's going to happen to me?

I shudder to think!

Is there a doctor on the West Coast familiar with my mystery illness that can properly diagnose and treat my ailment?

I pen and publish this post with optimism.

I pray that it is so.

http://www.thetattler.biz

Don't Ask Don't Tell...injunction upsets Obama's apple cart! All is fair in Love & War...

The - "don't ask - don't tell" - hot potato policy issue on "gays" serving openly in the military continues to cause headaches for President Barack Obama and haunt the top brass at the Pentagon.

When Federal Judge Virginia Phillips (Riverside / CA) threw a monkey-wrench into Obama's plans to to take action on the controversial (looney-tunes Clinton-inspired law) this past week, the government was thrown into a quandary.

To appeal, or not to appeal, that was the question.

On Tuesday - U.S. District Judge Virginia Phillips - ordered the military to immediately suspend and discontinue any investigation or other proceeding to dismiss gay service members under the law.

In response, Officials at the White House noted it was their intention to repeal the law on the "sit-on-the-fence" policy anyway.

Lawyer Dan Woods stated for the record that his client - the Log Cabin Republicans (who won the ruling on Tuesday) - were just notified that the Justice Department intends to appeal and seek a stay of the ruling.

The actions were confirmed by a person in the government keen on the administration's highly-volatile behind-closed-doors discussions.

In spite of the pledge to appeal the "order" - the defense Department's top lawyers confided Thursday - that they intend to abide by the court's ruling and allow gays to serve openly without penalty.

Case closed?

Not on your life, buddy!

At this juncture, it appears there is a clash of wills, hindering the inevitable.

And, a need to save face, if the Prez has his druthers.

Uh-huh!

The military doesn't want to go down on the battlefield defeated.

Not good for the morale of the straight soldiers in the ranks, I expect, eh?

In the final analysis, an old truism appears to apply, here.

All is fair in love and war!

Amen.

http://www.thetattler.biz

Dalai Lama...speaks @ Stanford on "Compassion"



A rainbow of sentiments on a cloudy day!

MySpace friend - and Buddhist (his Holiness) the Dalai Lama - speaks at one of Standford University's popular venues (Maples Pavilion).

The theme of the much-anticipated "sold-out" discussion?

"The Centrality of Compassion in Human Life & Society"

In the mixed-up, hateful world of today, the Spiritual Leader has hit on a subject that is bang-on!

Thank you for your blessings, Sir!

http://www.thetattler.biz/

*The San Francisco Library has an extensive collection of Dalai Lama's teachings



Batman 3...Tom Hardy jumps onboard! What part will he tackle?

Batman 3

Hardy rumors abound!

Apparently, Christopher Nolan has been keeping his cards close to the chest, in respect to casting on the upcoming Batman 3 project.

News has leaked out, however, that Tom Hardy (directed by Nolan in Inception) has been hired on to play a major role in the successful comic strip franchise.

But, which character will the handsome actor take on?

Nolan's not uttering a word!

A Batman sidekick, perhaps?

Others are speculating differently.

A nasty - in-your-face - unscrupulous villain!

Inside sources are playing a cat-and-mouse game in the high-stakes realms of Tinsel Town.

It's being hinted that Hardy may take on the challenging task of portraying either the Riddler, the Penguin (naw!), or Killer Croc.

News at 11!

http://www.thetattler.biz



San Francisco...the accidental tourist! Fisherman's wharf relaxing day-trip!

Today, I dashed into 711 to snatch up the daily newspaper - and for some inexplicable reason - I got turned around.

Shortly after I was comfortably ensconced in a comfy seat on a streetcar - and a few column inches into an amusing news bite on Gavin Newsom and his wager with the Mayor of Philadelphia - I was forced to switch gears.

Because I wasn’t paying attention, I ended up on the wrong train heading towards Pier 39, in the opposite direction of my original destination (the Castro District).

Ooops!

Instead of panicking, though, I reflected on the mishap for a moment or two.

Then, I said to myself - as Bette Midler is often want to do - in times of crisis.

“Self, take the day off.”

So, I did!

Soon, I was mingling with a posse of out-of-towers on the boardwalk, taking in all the scintillating sights and sounds picturesque San Francisco has to offer.

An accidental tourist?

You bet!

And what - pray tell - was the biggest draw at the Pier?

Supping on fresh catch of the day - at one of the trendy seafood restaurants hugging the rugged coast - was a leisure activity at the top of the list (according to a few out-of-towners I crossed paths with).

A main entree, washed down with a thirst-quenching beer or carafe of chilled wine, may run ‘ya about twenty five bucks a head (not including tax) at a minimum.

But, worth every deteriorating penny!

Of course, for those on a budget, In-N-Out Burger is still capable of satiating a hungry gut for a fraction of the cost when a visitor is "on the go".

Next up on the “to do” list?

A brisk cruise in the historic harbor - off Alcatraz - of course!

In spite of the fact a handful of the lightweight boats were a bit dilapidated - and in dire need of a fresh coat of paint - a short stint on the waterfront will make a dent in anyone's well-worn alligator-skin wallet to the tune of about $18.00 (for starters).

If you hanker to stay in shape while on holiday in the city by the Bay, consider renting a bike and burning off a few calories, as you take in the sweeping vistas at a snail’s pace.

An  outgoing tour guide at - “Blazing Saddles” - enlightened me about the joys of day-tripping on two wheels instead of a boring four.

“There are bike trails along the coast - from the wharf to the Golden Gate Bridge - and beyond to Sausalito. At the other end, if you’re tired, just hop on the ferry and head back to the mainland that route. No problem.”

$8.00 an hour for pedal power!

Contact:

Telephone
415.202.8888

Web Site
www.blazingsaddles.com

For the truly lazy - and those who pine for a breeze to whiz through their hair on intense muggy days - a motorized bike is also available.

In addition to the above delights - there are souvenir shops, a coin museum, and open-air bus tours - to round out the day’s activities.

When you head back to the Hotel district, try to shoot for a ride on public transport provided courtesy of the city.

Eager tourists crave a thrill ride - that twists and turns - from the wharf to the downtown core along Powell on a cable car.

Unfortunately, the conductor’s helper packs ‘em in so tight, it’s difficult to catch the romantic images of turn-of-the-century houses - with their ubiquitous eye-catching gingerbread trim and inviting bay windows - lining the quaint little streets without craning a neck (and possibly suffering injury).

On the other side of the steep hill, past Nob Hill, I jumped off the trolley in a popular section of town just off Union Square.

Nike's "Marathon for Women" was camped there, by the way, causing a little more street traffic than usual!

I slipped into the chic St. Francis Hotel to take a gander at some of the historical memorabilia showcased in the staid front lobby crafted in teak-panelled walls, elegant  designer fixtures, and plush carpet underfoot.

A tony crowd lounged around  sipping on mint Julips, fizzy sodas, and what-have-you.

Pricey!

Down the hectic busy street, for a mere 3 bucks - I purchased a glass of  chilled white Chablis - and proceeded to plunk myself down  alfresco at a cafe (and people-watched to my heart’s content).

Life in the romantic slow lane.

Loved it!

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Glee..."out" gay teens! Plots ripped from headlines! Charming Entertainment!

Talented actor plays "out" role!

I was channel-surfing last evening - when I unexpectedly stumbled upon the latest scintillating installment of the highly-rated TV musical/comedy - "Glee".

Within minutes, it struck me that the well-written thought-provoking piece of fiction - broadcast during the family hour - appeared to be mirroring life itself.

Indeed, at least one controversial theme (handled with kid gloves in a gay-themed sub-plot) was literally ripped from screaming headlines, to its credit.

No stale old fag jokes in this hip creative offering, that's for sure!

I recalled a phrase that actors used as a coded reference to "queer" male actors in the business on the sly way back in the fifties (era of screen idols Tab Hunter & Rock Hudson).

"He's musical, 'ya know?"

Well, there are enough show tunes on "Glee" each week, to fathom that inevitability from the get-go!

Right off-the-bat, I was a little put-off by some of the language, though.

In one unsettling scene - two attractive gal pals chatting up a storm about an upcoming competition - joked about being a couple of nasty "bit**es" to be reckoned with.

The sentiments rolled off the tongues of these teen babes so easily that it jolted my sensibilities.

Later, one camera panned in on two female friends of the female hugging each other on a bed.

Say what?

When one pretty black character lightly teased the other for being a (lipstick?) lesbo, she giggled a little, just before swearing (cross her heart) that there was nothing behind the "cuddly" cop-a-feel.

"Sometimes I just need a warm body to hold onto," she joked, in so many words.

Me, too, honey bun!

As we used to say when I was a kid:

"Lesbie-friends and go homo."

Uh-huh.

What  messages - blatant or subliminal - are being promoted on "Glee"?

About mid-way into the highly-entertaining segment, the students were asked to buddy-up, and perform a duet for an upcoming talent night.

One "out" male student - obviously, so - hatched a scheme to approach a blond cutie in class to take up the task in a bold-faced effort to sidle up closer with the hope of a potential romp in the hay.

When a teacher called him up on his deceitful intent, he drummed up a hilarious alternative, to get out of the fix.

"I'll perform a duet with myself," he huffed, to all within earshot.

Musical masturbation, per chance?

The next best thing, I guess.

The talented triple-threat whipped up a dazzling dance routine - based on the novel one in "Victoria Victoria" that Julie Andrews performed to theatrical perfection - with the intention of playing both the male & female parts!

In the next exploitative moment, the shows producers sent the lad into the shower room, where he promptly informed  the object of his desire (naked from the waist up) that he was off the hook.

Not before he has informed him, however, that he didn't buy the stud's so-called "straight act".

"My gay-dar is quite good, 'ya know," he asserted earlier, in the twinkling of an eye.

Actually, the young blond actor who played the character, reminded me a lot of the one who starred in the popular hit - Queer as Folk - which was shot in my hometown (Toronto) a few moons ago.

Of course, Glee is tame by comparison.

"Queer" was so graphic and in-your-face and ground-breaking in respect to gritty gay themes.

A peck on the cheek is about all viewers will be salaciously treated to on "Glee".

Pity!

After all, I have the hots for Jane Lynch

News at 11!

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AFI FEST 2010...presented by AUDI announces line-up! David Lynch, Colin Firth & 8 Gala Events!

Today - the AFI FEST 2010 presented by AUDI - announced its exciting feature-film line-up for the upcoming annual festival.

As I mentioned in an earlier post a couple of weeks ago at the Tattler, the exciting World Premiere of -  "LOVE & OTHER DRUGS" (DIR Edward Zwick) starring Jake Gyllenhaal - is the "Opening Night Gala" flick slated to kick off the prestigious Audi-sponsored event this year.

The much-anticipated feature - the BLACK SWAN (DIR Darren Aronofsky) - is part of the dazzling "Closing Night Gala" presentation causing a lot of buzz in the industry.

Post:  10/06/2010

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2010/10/afi-festivaldavid-lynch-guest-artistic.html

Today, the AFI Fest announced there will be 8 glittering red-carpet "Centerpiece Galas" sure to add a lot of sizzle to the festival circuit as follows:

*AMIGO (DIR John Sayles / U.S. Premiere)
*ABEL (DIR Diego Luna)
*BARNEY'S VERSION (DIR Richard J. Lewis),
*BLUE VALENTINE (DIR Derek Cianfrance)
*CASINO JACK (DIR George Hickenlooper)
*THE COMPANY MEN (DIR John Wells)
*THE KING’S SPEECH (DIR Tom Hooper)
*(Colin Firth & Geoffrey Rush slated to appear)

At press time, the festival organizers noted that venues showcasing AFI ceremonies include the historic Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, the Mann Chinese 6 theatres, the Egyptian Theatre and the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.

AFI Fest 2010 presented by AUDI runs November 4-11 in Hollywood

Filmmaker David Lynch is the festival’s Guest Artistic Director.

OPENING NIGHT SELECTION

November 4th
7:30 p.m.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

LOVE & OTHER DRUGS:

Edward Zwick’s satiric romp through the world of cutthroat Viagra sales stars Anne Hathaway and Jake Gyllenhaal as mismatched lovers who discover that love is the ultimate drug. DIR Edward Zwick. SCR Charles Randolph and Edward Zwick & Marshall Herskovitz. CAST Jake Gyllenhaal, Anne Hathaway, Oliver Platt, Hank Azaria, Josh Gad, Judy Greer, Gabriel Macht. USA
(World Premiere)

TRIBUTE SELECTION:


November 5
7:30 p.m.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

THE KING’S SPEECH:

Colin Firth stars as the stuttering King George VI and Geoffrey Rush as his maverick Australian speech therapist. DIR Tom Hooper. SCR David Seidler. CAST Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, Geoffrey Rush, Guy Pearce, Timothy Spall. UK/Australia

CENTERPIECE GALA SELECTIONS:

November 6
6:30 p.m.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

BLUE VALENTINE:

Flooded with romantic memories of their courtship, Dean and Cindy use one night to try and save their failing marriage. DIR Derek Cianfrance. SCR Derek Cianfrance, Joey Curtis and Cami Delavigne. CAST Ryan Gosling, Michelle Williams. USA .

November 6
8:00 p.m.
Egyptian Theatre

BARNEY'S VERSION:

A wise and witty tale of a seemingly ordinary man who lives an extraordinary life. DIR Richard J. Lewis. SCR Michael Konyves. CAST Dustin Hoffman, Paul Giamatti, Rosamund Pike, Minnie Driver, Rachelle Lefevre, Scott Speedman. Canada/Italy.

November 7
7:30 p.m.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

ABEL:

 In his feature directorial debut, Diego Luna offers a strange, alluring fable of a disturbed child attempting to become his own father. DIR Diego Luna. SCR Diego Luna, Augusto Mendoza. CAST Christopher Ruíz-Esparza, José María Yazpik, Karina Gidi, Carlos Aragón, Gerardo Ruíz-Esparza, Geraldine Alejandra. Mexico

November 8
7:00 p.m.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

CASINO JACK:

Notorious lobbyist Jack Abramoff finds himself in bed with mafia assassins in this fact-inspired film. DIR George Hickenlooper. SCR Norman Snider. CAST Kevin Spacey, Barry Pepper, Kelly Preston, Rachelle Lafevre, Jon Lovitz. Canada

November 9
Details TBA

November 10
7:30 p.m.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

THE COMPANY MEN:

Bobby Walker is living the American dream when corporate downsizing forces him and two co-workers to re-define their lives. DIR/SCR John Wells. CAST Ben Affleck, Chris Cooper, Kevin Costner, Tommy Lee Jones, Maria Bello, Rosemary DeWitt. USA

CLOSING NIGHT SELECTION

November 11
7:30 p.m.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

BLACK SWAN:

Darren Aronofsky’s stunningly operatic film stars Natalie Portman as a rising ballet star pushing her body and soul to the limit. DIR Darren Aronofsky. SCR Mark Heyman & Andres Heinz & John McLaughlin. CAST Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis, Barbara Hershey, Winona Ryder. USA .

SPECIAL SCREENING SELECTIONS:


November 6

AMIGO:

Parallels to current events abound in John Sayles’ compelling drama about the moral quandaries facing U.S. soldiers and local cooperators a century ago in the Philippine-American War. DIR/SCR John Sayles. CAST Garret Dillahunt, Joel Torre, Chris Cooper, DJ Qualls, Brian Lee Franklin. USA/Philippines. U.S. Premiere

November 7

RABBIT HOLE:

A vivid, honest, hopeful and unexpectedly witty portrait of a family searching for what remains possible in the most impossible of all situations. DIR John Cameron Mitchell. SCR David Lindsay-Abaire. CAST Nicole Kidman, Aaron Eckhart, Dianne Wiest, Miles Teller, Tammy Blanchard, Sandra Oh. USA

November 8

MADE IN DAGENHAM:

Alongside 55,000 men, 187 women work as machinists in a car assembly plant and are paid a fraction of what the men earn. The women go on strike, eventually leading to a national crisis. DIR Nigel Cole. SCR William Ivory. CAST Sally Hawkins, Bob Hoskins, Miranda Richardson , Geraldine James, Rosamund Pike. UK

November 10

CAVE OF FORGOTTEN DREAMS:

Visionary director Werner Herzog takes us on a 3-D journey into the most distant past of human history as his camera encounters the 35,000-year-old paintings of the Chauvet Cave . DIR Werner Herzog. USA

TICKETS


AFI continues its groundbreaking offer to provide festival-goers with free tickets to all of the AUDI AFI FEST 2010 filmss (including Galas and Special Screenings).

For guaranteed access to these screenings and other festival benefits guests may purchase Gala Passes and Special Screenings Passes (on sale now).

Festival-goers may also purchase Patron Passes which include Gala tickets.

FREE TICKETS

Available to AFI
Members & General Public
October 27th (noon)
October 28th (noon)

This year festival-goers also will have access to a limited number of last-minute tickets at AFI.com/AFIFEST the day before the screening or at the festival box office the day of the screening.

Rush Lines will begin forming one hour before the scheduled screening start times.

Becoming a patron of the festival and purchasing a Patron Package secures reserved seats and other festival benefits.

A limited number of Patron Packages are now available.

Additional passes ¾ including the New Auteurs Pass , the Special Screenings Pass and the Gala Pass ¾ are on sale now.

These passes guarantee seating at the films in these sections.

The AFI FEST

Box Office
AFI.com/AFIFEST

TELEPHONE


1.888.AFI FEST

www.afi.com

The King's Speech

(Colin Firth)

http://www.thetattler.biz

Treasure Island Music Festival...Hot bands! Ferris Wheel! Tasty Treats! Surprises!

The 4th Annual "Treasure Island Music Festival" blows into town this weekend and runs full steam at the outdoor venue downtown October 16th thru October 17th.

At press time, an eclectic mix of bands were slated to perform, and include high-profile headliners such as LCD Soundsystem, Belle & Sebastian, Deadmau5, Die Antwoord, Broken Social Scene, to name a few.

10,000 music-lovers are expected to flock to Treasure Island this weekend to participate in the much-anticipated event.

From a unique vantage point on the island, die-hard music-lovers, will wow to breathtaking San Francisco skyline views and scintillating sounds guaranteed to propel them into Nirvana and beyond.

Organizers noted that they intend to present a musical event sure to be fondly recalled for many years to come - and so - there will be particular attention to the "look" and "feel" of the festive celebration.

Guests will be able to stroll through canvas-tented alley-ways alongside quaint food carts, as crafts folk hawk their wares, under blue skies and a lazy old sun beating down in all its glory from above.

CONCERTS

TIME
11 a.m.

LOCATION
Great Lawn
Treasure Island

TICKETS

$  67.50 (1-day)
$110.00 (2-day)

VIP Pass

$475.00 (2-day package)
*Parking (on-island)
*Preferred viewing
*Bleachers
*Special Amenities

CONCERTS
(off-island)

Dan Black, Butterfly Bones, DJ Morale
Time: 9 p.m.
Thursday Oct. 14th
$15.00
The Independent
628 Divisadero St.
S.F.

http://www.ticketweb.com/

Die Antwoord, Vin Sol
Time: 9 p.m.
Friday Oct. 15th
(sold out)
The Independent
628 Divisadero St.
S.F.

www.ticketweb.com

Rogue Wave, the Mumiers
Time: 9 p.m.
Saturday Oct. 16th
$15.00
The Independent
628 Divisadero
S.F.

www.ticketweb.com

Performances / Saturday

*LCD Soundsystem
*Deadmau5
*Kruder & Dorfmeister
*Miike Snow
*Die Antwoord

Performances / Sunday

*Belle & Sebastian
*the National
*Broken Social Scene
*She & Him
*Surfer Blood
*the Mumiers

Info:

http://www.treasureislandfestival.com/2010/index.php

 

http://www.thetattler.biz

Shingles...herpes zoster outbreak in San Francisco? Nerve attacker painful!

Everywhere I sauntered this past week in the picturesque city by the Bay - I encountered some unfortunate individual afflicted with "Shingles" - a debilitating unsightly rash otherwise known as Herpes Zoster.

For example, when I was making an appointment for a check up at Davis Campus in San Francisco, a doctor there acknowledged that he suffered through a bout of the nasty skin eruption a couple of weeks ago.

Then, at the pharmacy, a Manager fessed up that her husband came down with shingles.

"It took months to heal," she confided in me.

During the first forty-eight hours or so after the unsuspecting victim becomes infected (and highly contagious to others) the virus attacks any number of major nerves on the individual's body.

For instance, years ago, a friend of mine had the great misfortune of suffering an outbreak of the nasty-looking rash on her forehead and neck.

Usually, Herpes Zoster attacks major nerves - like those that wrap around the rib cage (front-to-back) - leaving a trail of God-awful open sores that appear in all respects to be some un-holy plague  hounding the hapless patient.

Until the sores "drain" - as the doctor succinctly put it - the afflicted person suffers a thousand pin-pricks of sharp pain along the nerve endings which cause unbearable discomfort.

Understandably, the infection prevents the individual from getting proper rest at night - and likewise - interrupts any meaningful involvement in the most-boring-of routines daily until the open wounds eventually "dry up".

In the initial first phase of the infection, pregnant mothers and young children, are the most vulnerable.

Like measles, a shingles outbreak warrants caution, when a person is out-and-about in the community-at-large to ensure the well-being and continued good health of those in the near vicinity are safeguarded.

Unfortunately, there aren't any salves or medicinal creams to alleviate the swelling, tenderness, or reddened areas affected.

The doctor will issue a prescription - an anti-viral - which must be taken faithfully to get the unfortunate infection under control as quickly as possible.

In the interim, the patient would be wise not to scratch the rash, although it will be difficult to resist that temptation.

Without doubt, a strong pain killer may be necessary to provide some relief, until the first outbreak during the initial highly-contagious period  has passed.

Just don't get hooked on the potent controlled substance in the meantime, eh?

http://www.thetattler.biz

Secretariat...Diane Lane & John Malcovich in heart-warming drama!

Diane Lane talented actress!

“Secretariat” is one of those Disney-style family movies where film-goers - thoroughly entertained by a cast of likeable characters (who propel the gripping piece of drama forward to an upbeat satisfying conclusion) - spontaneously applaud at the end of the flick as the credits crawl across the screen.

"Secretariat" is one of those Disney-style movies where film-goers thoroughly entertained by the likeable characters (who propel the gripping drama forward to an upbeat satisfying conclusion) spontaneously applaud as the end of the film as credits crawl across the screen.

After all, the well-produced flick - starring Diane Lane and John Malcovich - is based on a true story.

Track enthusiasts may recall that “Secretariat” - a celebrated racehorse (affectionately nick-named “Big Red” by the owners) - rode into the history books after winning the prestigious "Triple Crown" a scant few decades ago.

The film chronicles the inspiring tale in spell-binding fashion  and manages to tug at the heart strings along the way.

Diane Lane is in top form in a role that suits her to a “T”.

Ms. Lane is one of those talented performers who has been blessed with the good fortune to be well-received by film buffs at pivotal points in her illustrious film-acting career over the years.

Years ago, Ms. Lane stirred up quite a bit of excitement on the lot at Universal Studios - and earned the reputation of a being a “seasoned pro” - when she turned up daily on the set of the teen rock hit - “Streets of Fire” - to play opposite another actor who turned out to be a flash in the pan.

As the classy actress made her rounds this past week to plug “Secretariat” on the talk-show circuit - it was quite evident that the low-key actress (though not always in the public eye screaming for attention like so many of her needy contemporaries) - still garners a lot of respect with the movie-going public, critics, and in the industry-at-large.

Indeed, this past weekend, the box office receipts called attention to a glaring fact.

Ms. Lane is still a big draw in the movie business!

In “Secretariat”, Lane portrays a housewife - who is suddenly thrust into the male-dominated realms of professional horse-racing - due to an unexpected turn-of-events in her private life.

With a hope and a prayer, Ms. Lane’s character tackles the challenge head on, in a scenario that proves to be very entertaining bill-of-fare for young and old audiences alike.

Not all the local critics were thrilled with the idea of having to screen a family-oriented film that moves along at its own steady - but slow - pace.

For instance, one reviewer made a snide remark that too much precious celluloid time was wasted on Ms. Lane gazing into the eyes of the horse to the film’s detriment.

What a ridiculous criticism!

In fact, the screen moments he was referring to - resonated with quite a few film buffs (myself included) - because during the duration of those insightful moments Lane’s character was subtly establishing a bond between horse and owner.

The dopey reviewer was too lame to figure that one out!

Take aim; after all, they shoot horses, don't they?

Duh!

John Malcovich, as usual, turns in a stellar performance as a quirky horse trainer with a lousy golf putt.

The established star of stage and screen literally mesmerizes - so seamless and authentic - is his characterization here.

In fact, Malcovich breathes life into a role that less competent actors would turn into a showy piece of jambone.

Come to think of it, Marlon Brando - an actor’s actor - has even managed to flirt with that theatrical sin on occasion.

Although the well-rounded cast of supporting players turn in high caliber performances, too - in the final analysis - the audience can’t help but root for the true star of the heart-warming flick.

The four-legged beauty who plays the horse!

Why did W.C. Fields always caution actors about working with animals and children?

Because, they steal the show, of course.

http://www.thetattler.biz