Gerard Depardieu...impromptu "potty break" triggered by prostate problems! Urinary tract infections painful, too!

When a sensational report splashed across news outlets around the globe - alleging that french actor Gerard Depardieu stood up and urinated in the aisle on a jet bound for Dublin - I held judgment for a couple of reasons.

If an international celebrity of his stature is accused of such wild behavior, there must be a reasonable (albeit potentially embarrassing) explanation for the bizarre impromptu antics.

When I reflected on the incident, I surmised that the well-respected actor ('til now) was either stinko (drunk) or - just maybe suffering from a  medical condition that triggered the cranky outburst whic caused him to engage in the ghastly indecent act.

According to a pal who was travelling with the star (actor Edouard Baer) , Debardieu was sober.

The whole ugly scenario unravelled when high-flying celebrity informed a flight attendant that he was in dire need of the restroom. However, instead of ushering the French Citizen to the facility, the airline employee informed him that he would have to wait until the jet was airborne (about fifteen minutes later).

But, as fate would have it, the take-off was delayed - for what turned out to be - an excruciating twenty minutes for the star of films such as "Green Card".

At this point, Depardieu fired a warning shot off the bow!

According to eyewitness on the plane, the actor declared in a loud voice:

“Je veux pisser, je veux pisser”.

A rough translation in English?

“I want to pee. I want to pee”.

When the airline personnel ignored his plea, he was forced to relief himself on the spot, because he was unable to hold the stream of urine back.

The actor attempted to urinate in a bottle, but for obvious reasons, his aim was not so precise. To the outrage of disgusted passengers, he ended up peeing on the floor of the cabin in plain sight.

“Gerard was upset at this and offered to clean up the mess,” Baer said.

And then, the truth sputtered out.

“He has prostate problems and it was very worrying and humiliating for him."

Coincidentally, just a few weeks ago, I was plagued with a urinary tract infection - and subsequently - can sympathize with Mr. Depardieu's dilemma.

When the nasty bug struck moi, one minute I was writhing in pain having difficulty urinating - in the next - I was overcome with an uncontrollable urge to "pee" without warning.

I thought I would literally burst!

For a month, it was sheer hell!

A malfunctioning "prostate" triggers the same reactions - and probably won't let up - until a doctor either prescribes a potent antibiotic - or in the alternative - surgery.

This is one of the reasons why I get so angry at restaurants and shopkeepers that refuse restroom access to pedestrians who don't intend to patronize their establishment.

If 'ya gotta go, 'ya gotta go.

In a pinch, at least a guy can whip it out behind a bush to get some immediate relief.

Not so with ladies, amigos!

Hopefully, this has been a learning experience for everyone on both sides of the Atlantic.

Things are not always as their appear on the surface, after all.

Don't feel humiliated Mr. Depardieu, I've been there!

As I was penning this post, a dumb joke we used to tell when we were kids, surfaced into my consciousness.

Who wrote the book "Golden Showers"?

I .P. Standing

Ba-dump!

Maybe a bit of levity is needed just now, eh?

Ashton Kutcher..Punked? Feds at the Federal Trade Commission nix plans to pursue non-disclosure issues!

Whew!

Ashton Kutcher is breathing a sigh of relief this weekend on the heels of the news that the Feds at the FTC don't intend to pursue a non-disclosure issue raised by a handful of media outlets this past week.

The Tattler reported on the high-wire act that Kutcher and DETAILS staff engaged in to stave off a criminal investigation.

Post: 08/19/2011

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/08/ashton-kutcherfailed-to-disclose.html

A New York Times article also raised questions as to whether Kutcher would face a Federal Trade Commission investigation for his failure to disclose investments he made in technology companies when he acted as a guest editor for DETAILS Magazine and summarily touted those business entities.
Initially an FTC official said an investigation was "certainly a possibility", but now, an FTC spokesperson has whispered in the ear of a reporter at the daily that the agency has no plans to investigate Kutcher.

Was Ashton Kutcher being punk'd?

Kutcher did not issue any kind of public response regarding the matter, though an editor at Details Magazine did offer up a defense on their behalf (which I duly reported verbatim in the article cited above).

And, how was your week?

Fox 5 News...raise $6,000.00 worth of School supplies in drive! Kudos!

About a week ago, I reported that Fox 5 News was launching a drive to rustle up much-needed school supplies for students to returning to class this fall.

Post:  08/03/2011

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/08/fox-5-newssos-drive-for-school-supplies.html

A handful of News Anchors proceeded to set up an SOS base at McDonalds and invited locals and tourists alike to cruise by and contribute to the cause.

And, they did, in droves!

Fox 5 News just announced this week that they scoffed up about $6,000.00 worth of school supplies!

Kudos!

US BANK...worst branch in America at 261 North Las Vegas Blvd! Incompetent staff with bad attitude!

In view of the exorbitant bank fees being charged these days by financial institutions around the country, you'd think that customer services at local bank branches would have improved.

Wrong!

For example, the other day I stepped up to an ATM at the US Bank branch at 261 North Las Vegas Boulevard to withdraw a cash advance.

Shortly after I keyed in my personal pin, and selected the English or Spanish option (!), the screen froze up in front of me.

"Do you wish to cancel?" the ATM quizzed me.

Because of the glitch I encountered I elected to do just that (and start again).

Second try?

No cigar!

Uh-huh!

When I attempted to complete the transaction again a few seconds later, the screen stalled, and prevented me from cashing-out.

At this juncture, I noticed another gentleman hovering nearby, who was anxious to utilize the machine.

"The screen is freezing up on me, but you go ahead, if you like," I cautioned, as I stepped aside out-of-the-shadows and into the bright sweltering-hot desert sun.

As it turned out, the snafu wasn't due to any mistake on my part.

Shortly after inputting his data, the the other gentleman was faced with the same dilemma.

Unlike me, however, he snatched up his ATM card and stormed off angrily.

So, I was forced to stroll into the Bank to request a advance from the teller - and likewise - inform them about the malfunctioning ATM.

When I approached the desk of a frumpy thirty-something woman with a bad "do" to report the ATM incident, I was taken aback by her disturbing unprofessional behaviour.

The unkempt employee barely glanced up from a raft of papers she was perusing to address the issue.

"You probably didn't wait long enough," she finally barked at me, as she gave me a nasty look sideways.

How rude!

I immediately noted that I a second attempt at the ATM failed, too.

In addition, I pointed out that another customer also experienced difficulty withdrawing cash, to underscore that the problem with the ATM was obviously not due to any slip-up on my part.

She was at a loss for words; subsequently, I was forced to be quick on the uptake.

"May I obtain a cash advance from the teller?" I quizzed, at which point, she grudgingly nodded in the affirmative.

The woman had all the personality of a worm - and the brains to match - you betcha!

At the counter, a squat Latino woman with bad skin and a huffy air about her, was just as combative.

When I explained the problem with the ATM, she stared at me like I was from outer-space.

"I was afraid that if I had too many failed attempts at the ATM that it might send up a red flag and terminate card services," I explained, in the event she was too stupid too figure it out for herself.

After all, repeated irregularities at an ATM may cause the automated system to terminate card functions, as most bank customers are probably aware.

She reluctantly took my ID, then slowly hauled her fat ass over to debit machine to process the cash.

Sorry to wake you up, honey bun!

But, get this.

A week later, when I returned to the same ATM to withdraw cash, the machine was still broken!

Imagine that!

I took it upon myself to stroll into the bank and enlighten them about the problem, but they were too stupid and unprofessional to take any prompt meaningful action to fix it!

What a couple of low-life shits, eh?

By the way, US Bank is the disreputable financial institution that snatched up a batch of student loans a few years ago, then proceeded to sick nasty debt collectors on the students' tail - to ultimately make their lives miserable - until they forked over the dough pronto!

US Bank?

The worst financial institution in the country (just a notch above Capital One).

There outta be a law!

Gold & Silver Pawn Shop...installs "mister" to cool down customers! Responds to complaints! Kudos!

A few days I was on the rag and complained about a swarm of snarling traffic and lookie loo's (serious buyers, too) who were blocking the sidewalk in front of the ever-popular pawn shop that has become a big hit as a tourist attraction thanks to a cable reality-show.

At the time, I also made a couple of suggestions to the owners, with the specific aim of transforming the experience into an adventurous enjoyable one for all concerned.

For example, I recommended that the owners install an awning to shield the customers standing in line for hours from the sweltering mid-day sun.

Post: 08/15/11

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/08/gold-silver-pawn-shopturning-into-three.html

Just the other day,  I was strolling by the shop - and couldn't help but notice that tourists and locals alike - were now forming an orderly queue out-of-harm's way at the direction of the staff who were engaged in crowd control.

Although I didn't spy any awning gracing the front of the establishment - lo & behold - the owners did one better!

Customers shifting feet impatiently in line out-front in the sizzling -hot desert sun are now able to "cool down" thanks to the installation of a "misting" machine!

Just betcha there won't be as many cranky outbursts - or squabbles in a line that usually snakes all the way down the boulevard daily - now that the tourists' nerves are less jangled!

Kudos to the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop staff!

Robert Pattinson...cast in "Unbound Captives"! Rachel Weisz & Hugh Jackman also star!

Word out of Hollywood is that hunky Robert Pattinson is gearing up to take on a new role in the feature "The Unbound Captives" - a period piece - which  also stars Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz.

Sources close to the project were tight-lipped about the specifics - some of the logistics are still being worked out - but quite adamant that the shoot would not hole up in glitzy Tinseltown.

No distractions, please!

If the scuttlebutt is true, Robert will be sequestered away from the prying eyes of the paparazzi and adoring fans in a secluded Texas location.

Whispering sweet-nothings to his gal pal, Kristen - long distance after-midnight during the Vampire hours - may prove costly for the heartthrob unless the Twilight beauty tags along.

The shy actress may be wise to keep an eye on Rachel Weisz (even Hugh Jackman).

The talented actor from down under was pretty convincing, after all, when he got under the skin of Peter Allen in his dazzling portrayal of the showman (who I saw perform live once at a nightclub in New York before he met Liza and hit the big time).

By the way, in spite of a tangle of snafus - and untold headaches that have bogged the creative team down at the studio non-stop - it appears that the director is now shooting for a spring start-up.

Madeline Stowe boasted in a recent interview that she came up with the idea for what she calls “a large romantic Western” while at her cattle ranch in the Texas Hill Country.

The plot line allegedly focuses on an abduction by the Comanche Indians in Texas in the 1800s.

Stay posted for updates!

Artivist Film Festival...premieres "Minds in the Water" at red carpet event! Isabel Lucas fields Q & A!

"Minds in the Water" - a feature-length documentary about a professional free surfer who has embarked on a personal mission to save dolphins - is slated to kick-off the Artivist Film Festival tomorrow night in Hollywood at the prestigious Egyptian Theatre.

The much-anticipated screening - expected to pack the house - marks the North American premiere of a remarkable film (partly sponsored by the Humane Society).

The film follows the quest of surfer Dave “Rasta” Rastovich and his friends to protect dolphins, whales, and the oceans they all share.

Through a five-year adventure caught on film - that courses from Australia to the Galapagos, Chile, California, Alaska and Japan  - filmgoers are allowed a rare glimpse into one surfer’s transformation from observer to activist in bold-faced effort to defend the seas and its inhabitants.

Along the way, a posse of Hollywood celebrities spark up the silver screen (notables such as Isabel Lucas (“Transformers 2”) and Hayden Panettiere (“Heroes,” “Scream 4”) when they join in on the whirlwind journey around the face of the globe raising public awareness for their cause.

The screening will be followed by an insightful Q & A headed-up by Isabel Lucas alongside Rastovich and the film’s director Justin Krumb.

"Being selected to premiere our film in North America here at Artivist is a great honor,” bea,ed  Krumb.

“The surfing community has such deep roots in Southern California, and so many people here care about the issues the oceans face, that we feel it's an amazing opportunity to showcase what a few motivated people can accomplish with passionate determination."

"'Minds In The Water' is a great way to share a realistic, deeper look at how surfers all around the world can do their part to resolve human-created problems that exist in our most cherished aspect of life, namely the ocean,” added Rastovich in an afterthought.

This year, Artivist welcomes back PETROBRAS as its Official Community Partner.

Since 2004, Petrobras has supported the growth of the international Artivist Film Festival and Artivist Awards.

LA Weekly reprises its role as a media supporter this year, too.

The festival is also sponsored by Kanon Organic Vodka

http://www.kanonvodka.com

The Festival runs August 18th thru August 20th.

Screenings are free to the public but advance tickets are encouraged as the programs do “sell out.”

All screenings and festival activities (including panel discussions, filmmakers-audience Q&A's and receptions will be held at the historic Egyptian Theater in Hollywood.

For information and advance ticket reservations visit:

http://www.artivist.com/festival

ABOUT ARTIVIST FILM FESTIVAL


Founded in 2003, ARTIVIST FILM FESTIVAL is the only festival dedicated to raising awareness for International Human Rights, Children's Advocacy, Environmental Preservation, and Animal Advocacy through Film.

Over the past eight years Artivist Film Festival has screened more than 400 international Films representing 60 Countries, and has produced Film Tours promoting its mission to more than 35 Million people in five Countries: USA, UK, Japan, Mexico, and Portugal.

Each year Artivist Film Festival concludes with The Artivist Awards, honoring the contributions of filmmakers, community leaders, and celebrity advocates.

Past Honorees include: Peter Fonda, Olivia Wilde, Hank Azaria, Ted Danson, Alyssa Milano, Daryl Hannah, Matthew McConaughey, Joaquin Phoenix, James Cromwell, Mira Sorvino, Tippi Hedren, Mike Farrell, and Ed Begley, Jr.

ABOUT PETROBRAS

http://www.petrobras.com.br/en/

Petrobras has supported the growth of the international Artivist Film Festival and Artivist Awards since 2004.

Petrobras, a Brazilian energy company, has a 30 year history of distributing ethanol from sugar cane as fuel for vehicles, and is now committed to increasing the production and exports of ethanol. 

At its new research center, scientists are looking for ways to produce ethanol from farming byproducts, which can increase production without the need for more farming land.

Petrobras is the largest funder of Cultural Arts Programs in Brazil and a partner of hundreds of social, animal welfare, and environmental projects, such as the protection of endangered sea turtles, spinners dolphins and the manatee, as well as initiatives on carbon capture, water protection, biodiversity, and climate change.

It is their belief that uunderstanding the interdependence between humanity, animals, and the environment is crucial in our global community.

By working with individuals and groups, organizations and companies, we can create long-term solutions to our global problems.

About the Humane Society

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization, backed by 11 million Americans. The staff work to reduce suffering and improve the lives of all animals by advocating for better laws; investigating animal cruelty; conducting campaigns to reform industries; performing animal rescue and emergency response; and providing care to animals through our sanctuaries, emergency shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and clinics.

ARTIVIST FILM FESTIVAL

http://www.festival.artivist.com/

626-280-8291
 
See 'ya there!
 
 

 

Justin Bieber...sign of the times! Raging hormones cause teen fan dilemma!

When I was a teen, a "DETOUR" sign - scoffed up in the middle-of-the-night from a construction site at the side of the road - was cooler than a poster of Hendrix, Bob Dylan, or even the mop-haired Beatles!

Today, a muddled pimply-faced teen in braces - is more inclined to express his or her passions - in bold ballsy ways.

For example, when 11-year old Caroline Gonzalez was crowned "Mayor of the Day", the newly-elected official sprang into action and used her executive powers to name a street sign after Justin Bieber to express her undying love for the Pop Idol.

But, her spirits were dampened the following day, when the green & white sign engraved with "Justin Bieber Way" on its face, up-and-disappeared overnight.

Did a nervy fan in Forney (Texas) snatch it up for a keepsake?

As it turned out, a posse of boisterous teens - brimming with raging hormones - were hanging on it to  facilitate photo ops for their pals and it broke!

Because the Bieber placard was such a coveted treasure by the locals, the teens were fearful of retribution, so they snapped up the incriminating evidence and hot-footed it outta there pronto.

Later, when the hapless teens got their wits about them, they came forward and fessed up.

No problemo!

The city whipped up another sign (a $20 expenditure) which was ceremoniously hoisted into position to grace the quaint little street once again without further incident.

On Monday, when the "sign" has completed its "term", it will be gifted to Caroline Gonzalez.

Undoubtedly, she'll gush a quick "thanks",  then dash back home and tuck it under her pillow.

Sweet dreams on Justin Bieber Way, eh, Caroline?

Lady Gaga...kicks-off MTV Awards! Confessions about "role-playing" titillate fans!

Lady Gaga raised a few plucked eye-brows - and dazzled fans - when she sashayed into a MTV sound studio to mix-and-mingle and plug her new video "You and I".

The unpredictable DIVA looked for all-the-world like a China Doll in - OMG! - her mother's wedding dress! (by the way, that black sash has to go!)

The chanteuse was quite engaging, also, in the straightforward Q & A that followed her glamorous entrance.

The "ga" actually looked pretty!

In fact, the Monster "Queen" - who is usually starkly-white - was all a-glow after a recent jaunt to Mexico where she allegedly frolicked on the sun-kissed beaches from dawn 'til dusk.

According to the feisty festive performer the "wedding dress" symbolized life's intense life experiences.

If that's the case, what was the meat frock all about?

Meanwhile, Lady Gaga let it all hang-out in a no-holds-barred titillating foray into her intriguing (and sexually-damning) personal life.

"I wrote the song about this guy that I used to date," she fessed up.

The rapt audience was stunned when they heard the revelation.

Wasn't she still involved with studly barkeep Luc Carl?

"For me, it was all about capturing the true spirit of song, which is when you're in love, you'll be willing to walk and do the craziest and most inconvenient things you can possibly imagine. The video is quite complex in the way that the story is told, and it's meant to be slightly linear and slightly twisted and confusing, which is the way that love is."

To demonstrate the point, Gaga engaged in a little role-playing in the just-released video (inhabiting the scales of a mermaid, for instance) which left a posse of fans puzzled.

"How do you have sex with a mermaid?", one curious monster quizzed.

"Well, that's actually part of what the metaphor is - you can't," Gaga smiled.

"Sometimes in love, you can't make it work. No matter what you do, there's this giant boundary between you and someone else. So that's what it's about, perceiving in your imagination that there's something magical inside of you that you can make it work."

As to her male alter ego, Jo Calderone, the talented stage performer described the man as a bad boy who is not to be trusted.

"He's really hot. It's so weird, because I'm usually really funny about men, but he does something to me," she said, speaking of her alter ego as a personal acquaintance.

"He took me out this one time when we first met, and he's really fresh. I was really happy he wanted to be in the video and to model. He's really fresh, though. He's a bad boy, you know."
But, when it comes to baaaaad girls, Lady Gaga takes the (wedding?) cake!

By the way, Lady Gaga took the occasion to announce that she will open the upcoming MTV awards which is slated for broadcast on Sunday, August 28th, live from the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles.

Details:

http://www.MTV.com

Ashton Kutcher...failed to disclose investments! May face FTC investigation!

Pop Culture's favorite twit - um - twitterer may have pulled a fast-one on subscribers at DETAILS recently, when he acted as a guest editor in an online version of the trendy fashion mag.

The editors, who made the lucrative offer to the "Two And a  Half Men" star, were counting on Kutcher's twitter popularity to rustle up hits (and sales) at their jazzy web site (which it did).

But, the editors at DETAILS left out one mind-boggling detail - ouch! - and got more than they bargained for.

In addition to the headaches, both the publisher - and Ashton Kutcher - may be facing an investigation by the Federal Trade Commission on the grounds that the actor pitched products in the spread (referred to as the "Social Issue") without disclosing that he held stock in the companies that he was slyly promoting off-the-cuff.

By law, Kutcher was required to disclose the information.

In a nutshell, the naive (?) actor's involvement in the promotion amounted to a conflict of interest.

Bloggers are keen to the FTC rules which were newly-instituted last year.

Any individual who plugs a product on a web site - who receives remuneration (or maintains a financial interest in the company that manufactures it) - is required to disclose the information in a conspicuous spot on the homepage.

In addition to a potential probe by government officials at the FTC, Kutcher may also face searing scrutiny by the Securities and Exchange Commission if the enterprises he promoted offer stock to the general public in the near future.

Meanwhile, it should be noted for the record, that a spokesperson for DETAILS is vehemently denying any wrongdoing on their part.

"If you read Ashton's editors letter, you'll see he succeeded in his mission to get people to talk about and even criticize this social issue. I stand by how we communicated Ashton's involvement with some of the companies included in our coverage and remain extremely proud of the work we did on this project."

Government investigators often take a harder line.

 Just ask Martha Stewart!

News at 11!

The EXXXOTICA Expo...sizzling hot adult sex tease! Los Angeles! August 26 - 28th!

Industry insiders are touting the EXXXOTICA Expo as the wildest - most-innovative -National event to tosses a sizzling spotlight on the adult sex industry.

EXXXOTICA is a smorgasbord of sexual (kinky?) delights with stop-overs in Miami Beach, Edison, New Jersey, and Los Angeles.

Expect a swarm of worshippers of the hedonistic culture - and a posse of sex trade vendors - to descend on the Los Angeles Convention Center next weekend (August 26th - August 28th) ready to par-tay hearty and burn a little midnight oil.

There is bound (!) to be quite a bit of flogging (flagellation, too).

Models and dancers are slated to perform around gleaming poles, romp on cheesily-decorated beds, and strut their particular brand of adult-themed fantasy on a host of peep-hole-style stages positioned about the site (which include trampolines and see-saws).

It's a den of  iniquity, you betcha!

Of course, there will be a multitude of eye-catching booths with sex toys, energy boosters, and costumes to heighten the experience.

Since the titillating erotic event was first launched in 2006, EXXXOTICA has averaged 20,000 attendees per weekend, and blossomed into a gargantuan love fest!

In addition to appearances by the hottest adult film stars, there will be exciting educational seminars, and risque live entertainment (highly stimulating to the senses).

In a nutshell, the big thrust is on sex, seduction and whimsy.
For porn connoisseurs - and the decadent - it is a must-attend event.

See 'ya there!

Johnny Depp...big tipper! Tiger Woods & Madonna "tight" with the bucks!

Well, it's a pretty well-known piece of scuttlebutt.

Johnny Depp once slipped a $100 bill into the needy hands of a homeless individual crouching in the shadows in the bustling mean streets of  Los Angeles with nary a thought.

So, it goes without saying, he'd probably tip well, right?

You betcha!

According to a recent news report, the former "21 Jump Street" star was crowned as best celebrity "tipper".

And, wonders never cease.

In spite of the fact Posh (Victoria Beckham) has a reputation for being penny-wise when it comes to rewarding the humble masses for services rendered (thank-you very much) Becks - her better-half  - acts like a drunken sailor flashing his wad when the fleets in!

Another sports hero (fallen?), Tiger Woods is apparently notorious for stiffing workers in the service industry, however.

"I never carry cash," he shrugs, in his defense.

Heh Tig, they'd probably take American Express traveller's checks in a pinch.

Who knows why Madonna is so tight - with the tips - that is.

One disgruntled restaurant waiter complained that the "Material Girl" left a paltry fourteen bucks in spite of the fact the tab soared into the hundreds.

Gosh, that's way below the standard of 15% (a minimum in the U.S.) isn't it?

The aging Diva could have at least coughed up a signed CD to ease the pain a little.

Barbra Streisand is a tough cookie, too, when it comes to acknowledging doting servants.

I  guess  the cost of keeping James Brolin in pricey hair products, tightie-whities, and what-have-you has left the ballsy broadway belter a little strapped for cash.

Bottom line?

Some folks are obviously under the impression that tipping is a place in China!

News at 11!

Dave Letterman...terrorist threatens to 'cut his tongue"! FBI steps in to investigate!

When law enforcement officers ushered Dave Letterman out of the studio yesterday, on the heels of a threat which was angrily posted on a jihadist website, the paparazzi caught the slightly bemused late-night talk-show host in a rare moment with his guard down.

The last time that happened was when Dave was caught with his pants down ('ya know, when the sex scandal unravelled out-of-control last year).

Last night, the toothy stand-up comic was obviously slightly surprised - and "embarrassed" - by all the attention that descended on him out-of-the-blue on the heels of offering up a put-down directed at a known terrorist.

In what amounted to a hostile knee-jerk reaction, an angry contributor to a jihadist website, proceeded to post a threat against Mr. Letterman.

A private intelligence organization swept in - once terrorists on a shumukh al-Islam forum on the Internet - were urged to "cut the tongue" of the popular comic.

Allegedly, the web site is a popular terrorist hub where radical Muslims swarm to remain in touch.

The author of the threat  - Umar al-Basrawi - was reacting to jokes Letterman allegedly made in reference to Osama bin Laden and Ilya Kashmiri after the U.S. military announced on June 5 that a drone strike in Pakistan had killed the al-Qaida terrorist leader.
Al-Basrawi accused the comic of "putting his hand on his neck and demonstrating the way of slaughter."

Al-Basrawi (an alias) is a regular contributor to the Muslim website (with 1,200 postings attributed to his hand to date).

The Site Intelligence Group, who acted on the Letterman threat, has been known to provide information to government and commercial clients on what jihadists are saying on the Internet and in the traditional media.

"According to their findings, Muslim extremist groups have increased calls for people to take violent action against certain targets in the West," one spokesman noted for the record.

Dave Letterman appears to be on the "hit" list.

"The concern is that there is someone who will read it, agree with it and say, 'I want to be the Sayyid Nosair of 2011 and kill David Letterman,'" one observer summed up.

Meanwhile, the FBI is also looking into the threat," according to Jim Margolin, a spokesman for the bureau's New York office.

"We take every potential threat seriously."

As of press time, there has not been any response from either CBS or Dave Letterman's handlers.

News at 11!





Humor frowned upon in terrorist elite circles!

SENNA...thrilling documentary on Race Car Driver packing movie theatres! Critics rave!

Over the past few weeks, the PR staff handling the flick - SENNA - invited me to attend a couple of exclusive private screenings of the highly-touted documentary.

Although I was out-of-town and unable to attend, all the hoopla surrounding the well-received foreign flick has not escaped my attention.

SENNA opened to the best screen average of any documentary this year, for starters, which was quite an accomplishment by Hollywood standards alone!

In addition, the powerful feature - which tosses a searing spotlight on highly-acclaimed Formula One race-car driver Ayrton Senna - has nabbed prestigious awards at the Los Angeles Film Festival (Audience Award/Best International Feature) and the Sundance Film Festival (Audience Award/World Cinema Documentary.

Ayrton Senna was a National hero in Brazil and became a racing icon to fans worldwide.
The powerful fast-paced documentary - directed by insightful Asif Kapadia - has been described as "an edge-of your-seat movie-going experience that explores the backroom politics, bitter rivalries and the glamour of a sport that leaves no room for error."

SENNA weaves together a potent selection of archival footage and original voiceover soundtracks to rustle up an insightful character study that underscores the celebrated racing-driver's uncompromising humanity and grace.

Needless to say, the critics have been raving!

I intend to catch the masterful documentary on my own dime in the near future.

How 'bout you?

To view the trailer and peruse a complete list of theaters go to:

www.sennamovie.com

See 'ya there!

Rick Perry...quirky use of English begs question! Is the Governor a redneck in sheep's clothing?

A few weeks ago, I penned a feature on Rick Perry's aggressive efforts to maintain the Texas border that he has authority and jurisdiction over, in his current role as the State's swash-buckling Governor.

Post:  05/26/2011

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/05/texas-governor-rick-perryillegal.html

After mulling over the situation for a couple of days, I published a follow-up post, in which I speculated that Rick Perry might be a likely candidate to run for President in the next election.

Post:  05/27/2011

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/05/texas-governor-rick-perryto-run-for.html

On the heels of the second post, a good friend hastily fired off a response to a link I installed on Facebook.

"Oh, Julian! You don't want Perry! He hates women, Mexicans, and fags!"

I held judgment, because during that time frame, I was not in possession of any facts or evidence that supported - what appeared to be - a wild accusation.

But if the allegations were true, it begged the question.

Who does Perry warm up to?

Well, obviously the red necks he fashions himself after, who roam the range in Texas.

In fact, judging by his recent comments on a National Broadcast (which some perceived as veiled threats against swishy politicians in the corridors of power in Washington) - and constant mutilations of the English language - he obviously imagines himself to be a rough-and-tumble modern-day cowboy!

Hee-Haw!

Why else would Governor Rick Perry pepper his public speeches with so many jarring jaw-dropping words like - y'all, workin', and 'em - eh?

Surely, he's aware of their proper pronunciation - and likewise - is capable of spelling 'em - er - them!

OMG! 

 It's catching.

Will voters wake up and smell the coffee?

News at 11!

Abercrombie & Fitch..."the situation" not model material! Retailer makes offer he can't refuse?



In an advertising first - a twist in marketing genius? - Abercrombie & Fitch has offered one of the high-profile stars of a reality-show big bucks not to sport their chic trendy duds!

"Jersey Shore"cast members have shot to instant fame - in part - because of lucrative endorsements for a myriad of hip youth-oriented products including but-not-limited-to weight loss supplements, ever-popular micro brews, skin bronzer, and what-have-you.

But when it comes to - "the situation" - the Abercrombie & Fitch suits in the executive office have sworn off.

After catching a glimpse of Michael (the situation) Sorrentino hanging-out (literally) in a neon-colored pair of Abercrombie & Fitch sweat pants, the top brass hit the panic button and called in the marketing wizards to work their magic.

On the heels of a frenzied pow-wow, the New Albany based company released a statement to the press in which they stated a "deep concern" over the association with Sorrentino (the situation) and the popular brand manufactured and flogged under the  A & F label.

In what they deemed a "win-win" situation, the brass revealed to drooling reporters over the past few days, that they had made an offer to Sorrentino he hopefully could not refuse.

In a nutshell?

The actor was promised a "substantial pay-off" if he sported an alternative brand.

“We understand that the show is for entertainment purposes, but believe this association is contrary to the aspirational nature of our brand, and may be distressing to many of our fans,” the statement read verbatim.

Who wants to be reminded of cheap Jersey Shore trash when they toss on their pricey Abercrombie & Fitch duds?

The offer was extended to rest of the Jersey Shore cast, too.

As of this hour, legal eagles at Abercrombie & Fitch are waiting with bated breath to hammer out the unprecedented deal.

It should be noted for the record that Abercrombie & Fitch is no stranger to controversy.

Last year when the aggressive retailer plastered the city with publicity stills of half-naked young men sporting jeans with their ass-cracks in plain view, the local police hauled the owners into court on obscenity charges.

The Judge tossed out the case - and consequently - it was been no looking back for the chic fashionable outlet since.

Will they seal the deal with in the current "situation" - or is it all just a novel publicity stunt?

News at 11!

Man of Affairs...quote by Julian Ayrs!

For so many

years

I imagined

that

I was a man

of

letters

But,

in recent days

it

suddenly

dawned on me

that I was

more a man

of many

affairs!

Julian Ayrs

Confessions of a Passionate Man

Collection of Poetry

&

Essays

(Las Vegas)

2011

Once a Week online Film Festival...dazzling short flicks! "Cú Chulainns Lament" the Official Selection this week!

Today, I was pleasantly surprised to receive an e-mail  from the "Once a Week" on line film festival with a link to a short fantasy feature "Cú Chulainns Lament".

According to my sources, the web site that offers up novel short features for weekly screenings on the Internet, got 200,000 hits this past week alone!

"Cu Chulainns Lament is a masterfully-made animation from medieval Ireland," gushed the webmaster who sent the clip along for review.

In the visually-exciting short, Queen Aoife takes revenge on hero - Cu Chulainn - by tricking him into slaying his only son.

According to the filmmaker, the tale is derived from the actual medieval Irish text Aided Oenfer Aoife (which roughly translates to The death of Aoife's only son).

Mission Statement

The festival aims to give filmmakers a greater amount of exposure by showcasing one specific film on the youtube channel for an entire week to a limitless audience.

Filmmakers are invited to submit their projects for consideration.

There is no entry fee.

Submission Info

http://onceaweekfilmfest.weebly.com/

The most highly-rated flick submitted each week is featured on the homepage on Wednesday evening at 9 p.m. (EST) and becomes a part of the permanent archive.

"Cú Chulainns Lament" was the Official Selection this week.

Good luck!

Reviews will follow so stay posted!

Insect stings...could put your face out of commission for days!

Okay! Okay! Okay!

I admit.

For the past couple of days I have been skulking about the city, hiding behind dark glasses, and looking down at the pavement when other pedestrians have strolled by.

For good reason.

The other morning at the crack-of -dawn, when I awoke from a deep sleep, I was startled to find that I was having difficulty opening my eyes!

The cobwebs of sleep were apparently clinging longer than usual.

Or, just maybe, there was another culprit?

I stumbled out of bed and dashed to the mirror to take a gander at the image staring back at me.

OMG!

Both of my eyelids were swollen beyond belief and both eyes were mere slits.

I looked like I had been hit by a two-ton truck.

After close examination, I spied a small "sting-like" prick at the top of one eye - at which point - it became evident that during the night an  insect or spider had bitten me while I was deep asleep.

Eugh!

Just the thought of an insect crawling across my face (while I was deep in slumber) was enough to make me throw-up.

But, worse than that, I had to contend with the impact of the nasty sting.

I immediately grabbed an ice pack - and quickly applied it - in a bold-faced attempt to reduce the swelling as quickly as possible.

But, the process was slow and upsetting!

Obviously, it  would take a good day or two for the swelling to go down.

Needless to say, I faced a second dilemma.

How to dash out and conduct a few chores around town without anyone catching sight of my battered-up mug!

I tell 'ya, it's difficult to avert a cashier's eyes when you're paying for purchases at the local pharmacy.

And, tougher still, to hide your face when you're in the midst of a one-on-one transaction with a clerk at a local financial institution.

If you act too suspicious, the tellers may jump to the conclusion that you're out to rob the bank!

Last night when I strolled it to a local restaurant to snap up some chicken and fries to go, it was damn-near impossible to hide the obvious, especially when everyone in the joint started to whisper:

"Do you know who that is?"

For the record?

No, I wasn't battered by a spouse.

And, I promise you, I wasn't coming down off a drunk.

I didn't even accidentally fall down and go boom (or walk into a door like most claim).

Some little bugger just bit me, that's all, folks!

So, how was your day?

Black Like Me...dead author John Howard Griffin being impersonated by scam artist in Las Vegas!

My jaw just about dropped when I overheard a middle-aged man at the next table confide to an acquaintance that he was the writer who penned the best-selling book "Black Like Me".

For good reason.

Well, I know I shouldn't have been eavesdropping - but sometimes - the chatter just floats in your direction out-of-the blue within earshot.

What's a boy to do?

Actually, I vividly recall reading the book when I was a teenager attending high school in Toronto (Canada) and - if my memory serves me well - the author passed to spirit decades ago (1980).


He was felled from complications due to skin cancers.


"Black Like Me" was written by John Howard Griffin (a white native of Mansfield in the state of Texas) and was first published in 1961.


The controversial book started out in non-fiction journal form and chronicled the author's six-week experience travelling on Greyhound buses (and other modes of transportatiion) throughout the racially-segrated states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia.


With a surprise hook to the story.


Mr. Griffin passed himself off as a Black man in a bold-faced effort to expose - and toss a searing spotlight on - troubling race relations in the south during that era.


With the medical assistance of a qualified doctor, Griffin darkened his skin, then headed out with arms wide-open and with a sense of adventure.

But, not before setting down a couple of golden rules to ensure that he did not stray from the path he had carefully charted ahead.

For example, he refused to change his name or conceal his identity.

In fact, if anyone quizzed him about his plans - or who he was - he vowed to utter up the truth.

To effect easy assimilation into the black community without raising suspicion or drawing attention to himself, Griffin opted from the get-go to communicate with folks around him as little as possible.

The ballsy author was not alone in his quest.

Sepia Magazine agreed to finance the project in exchange for the right to publish the journals first-hand in serial form.

When the story broke, Griffin became a national celebrity.

However, in spite of the acclaim, he was faced with a lot of hostility in his home town, which triggered a move to Mexico where he resided for a number of years thereafter in the aftermath.

"Black Like Me" - starring James Whitmore - was released in 1964.

Later - "The Man in the Mirror: John Howard Griffin & the Story of Black Like Me" - was published by Robert Bonazzi in book form.

And, what of the impersonator strolling the streets of Las Vegas, today?

He's pitching his new book, and boasting about investments he intends to make with the profits anticipated from sales of the upcoming publication (he expects the "novel" to be a best-seller in America).

Oh, and he's dating up a storm with pretty female escorts, to beat the band!

Is he a scam artist, a wacko, or just a plain wannabee?

You be the judge!





Real author John Howard Griffin

Life through the Distorted Lens of Nikki Sixx...IRIS Nights @ Annenberg Photography Space!

Fans of Nikki Sixx are anxious to snap up tickets for a much-ballyhooed event to launch at the Annenberg Space for Photography next Thursday (August 25th).

An "Evening with Nikki Sixx and Kristine McKenna" is expected to sell-out!

Nikki Sixx (Motley Crue) is a Grammy-nominated musician with over 80 million album sales to date.

The dynamic Pop personality is also a New York Times bestselling author who has three books under his belt which include "The Heroin Diaries", "The Dirt" (written with his Mötley Crüe bandmates) and "This Is Gonna Hurt: Photography" (Life Through the Distorted Lens of Nikki Sixx).

According to the curators at the gallery - "Life through the distorted lens of Nikki Sixx is an exploration of beauty, its perception, and how we view ourselves based upon Sixx's journals" - featuring a collection of eclectic photographs available for the first time in print.

Kristine McKenna is slated to act as moderator in a follow-up lecture that will focus on the rock star's photographic musings.

McKenna is a widely published critic and journalist who was a staff writer at the LA TIMES daily newspaper (1977 to 1998). Her profiles and criticisms have appeared in Artforum, The New York Times, Artnews, Vanity Fair, The Washington Post and Rolling Stone.

Because of the high-interest in the special event the Museum has instituted a handful of new procedures:

* Tickets will be limited to one per person.

* There won't be a standby list for the lecture. (no tickie - no laundry)

* Doors will close promptly at 6:30 pm. (late-comers will not be admitted)

* Pre-signed books will be available for purchase (no on-site signings)

* Photography is not permitted inside the Space for Photography.

Tickets Info

Tickets will be released on Wednesday, August 17 at 12 noon & Thursday, August 18 at 9:30 am.

See 'ya there!

Las Vegas...visitors lured by cheap rents! Trend spirals upwards!

Last week, a couple of Travel & Leisure analysts at local news outlets confessed that they didn't know what to make of a recent surge in visitors to Las Vegas, which appeared to go against the grain.

"The tourists are staying longer," reported one baffled anchor at a local news outlet.

Once the out-of-towners alight in their comfortable perches, they tend to hunker down for a longer haul than usual.

"It doesn't make sense when you review the data," another shrugged in frustration.

My knee-jerk reaction?

It's because of the rock-bottom rents!

Currently, a short-term reservation at a "flexible-stay" Hotel (or Motel) can be snapped up for half-the-price of a weekly or monthly rental elsewhere (in California, let's say).

On the few occasions I've strolled the streets for a breath of fresh air, I couldn't help but notice that Landlords are luring in tenants with move-in specials that are difficult to resist.

Say what?

Just plop down $499.00 and you're in-like-Flynn!

No credit check or lease required!

Some aggressive managers are tossing in free breakfast, cable, and Wi-Fi as well.

For a renter (or mortgage-holder) used to turning over seventy-five percent of their monthly paycheck to a bank or landlord the savings are a precious Godsend.

At these affordable prices tenants may actually be able to sock away a bit of cash each month for a retirement fund!

Viva Las Vegas!

As to suffering through the desert heat, well, that's a whole different ball game!

The "Stare"...Christie Brinkley a victim of it! Oprah Winfrey offers perspective!

I was casually channel-surfing the other day when I stumbled across an Oprah Winfrey segment that set the record straight in respect to a baffling situation that has been plaguing me in recent days.

Of course, I am referring to the unsettling "stare" phenomenon which I encounter daily as I zip around town to catch a flick, shop at the local mall, and what-have-you

As I have noted in prior posts, for some inexplicable reason, the public-at-large appears to hold this curious fascination with me.

For example, shortly after I step into line at the cash register to pay for my purchases, I suddenly feel all "eyes" on me

Then, the whispers start up.

"Do you know who that is?"

When I turn to check out who the celebrity is that is causing such a stir, I am usually taken aback, when the answer is revealed.

Uh-huh!

They're staring at me, folks!

But, what are they thinking, pray tell?

It remained a mystery until the obvious was finally revealed on the Oprah Winfrey Show recently.

With the help of a handful of former top models (some current) - such as Christie Brinkley - Big "O" managed to blow-the-lid off the "staring" thing.

Right off-the-bat, Oprah's bevy of bodacious beauties expressed the intense discomfort they felt, whenever they entered a room and all eyes turned in their direction.

"I feel like I am an alien," one stunning model confided to the panel.

"Sometimes, they just stare because they can't believe that you're in the same room with them," another astutely noted.

But, Oprah said it best.

"They stare because of your flawless beauty!"

In a nutshell?

Some celebrities have that special "it" quality which makes them downright unapproachable.

God forbid, a fan - or admirer - should intrude on their personal space or dare gulp in the rarefied air that they breathe!

If that's the case, then I can live with it.

But frankly, I'd prefer that individuals who happen across my path simply smile or say hello.

It's a lot less scary!

What ever happened to Zsa Zsa Gabor? Only the Prince knows for sure!

Apparently, it was like a scene out of a cheesy "B" movie, according to my sources.

Of course, I am referring to a belated birthday soiree that was tossed for legendary screen siren Zsa Zsa Gabor on Sunday evening (intended to also capitalize on the wacko couple's 25th Wedding Anniversary).

Sadly, celebrated illuminaries expected to attend (Nancy Reagan & Kirk Douglas, for example) stayed away in droves, for some inexplicable reason (!).

In fact - guests who were chomping-at-the-bit to mix-and-mingle with a chi chi A-list gang of jet-setters, show biz hot-shots, and socialites - were forced to engage in idle talk with lesser-known has-been's such as Frank Stalone.

Say who?

"Sly's brother, 'ya know!"

Zsa Zsa's husband - TMZ refers to the actress's better half as Prince A-hole - carried on, nonplussed, quick to do Ms.Gabor's bidding.

Or, was he?

That was the intrigue of the evening!

Shortly after the par-tay kicked-off, for good reason, curious guests began to wonder:

Where the heck was Zsa Zsa?

Was the Prince going to trot out the aging screen star momentarily - if only - for appearances sake?

Some joked that it would be an impossibility.

"She's dead," one cub reporter on a tabloid news show quipped later.

"Oh, it is so Psycho, isn't it?," another chimed in.

"It's more like - 'What ever happened to Baby Jane'," the anchor of the gossip show quipped wickedly.

At one point the Prince allegedly led a posse of the paparazzi right to Zsa Zsa's bedroom door for the ultimate teaser.

But, Zsa Zsa's dotting hubbie stopped short of allowing access to his Princess.

To the surprise of everyone present, the Prince suddenly pulled a fast one.

As quick-as-a-wink, he slipped into his wife's bedroom alone - with a piece of the delicious cake in hand - only to return a few seconds later alone (with no Zsa Zsa in tow).

"She ate the whole thing," he beamed unconvincingly.

Needless to say, there's a swirl of mystery and intrigue afoot in the lofty climbs of Bel Air, today.

News at 11!

Gold & Silver Pawn Shop...turning into three ring circus! Blocking Vegas strip a no-no!

The Gold & Silver Pawn shop - currently basking in the glow of a popular high-rated reality show on cable - has turned into a three-ring circus down on the distressed end of the Vegas strip in recent days.

For instance, fast-food servers are hawking tasty snacks from a food truck (splashed with eye-catching slogans in primary colors) at one end of the postage-size parking lot, just a hop-and-a-skip away from aggressive taxi drivers - keen on snatching up fares - jockeying for a coveted space along one lone wall.  Meanwhile, tourists and lookie-loo's alike, are swarming in by-the-hour adding a jolt of mayhem to the mix.

In fact, the crowds have been so overwhelming lately, that the owners were forced to erect a rope-barrier in front of the store in a bold-faced effort to effect a bit of order amid the chaos erupting in the street daily.

And, that is where I have a "bone to pick" with the folks, who run the souped-up (overrated) second-hand store.

The staff have "seized" half of the sidewalk - a strip of city property - they do not own!

Consequently, pedestrians - with no intention of patronizing the shop - are forced to battle their way through the unruly crowd (who rarely step aside to let the citizen pass by freely without a struggle).

I have spied elderly folks being forced to walk perilously close to the curb within a hair's breath of oncoming traffic on Las Vegas Boulevard.

I guess, it's just a matter of time before some unfortunate resident (or tourist) topples over into a speeding vehicle.

Ouch!

If the dudes who run this clip joint had any grey matter - brains - they'd queue the line through the parking lot along the side wall and not in the busy city street.

And, while they're at it, they might also consider hoisting an awning to protect their customers from the blazing hot sun to prevent older patrons (and children0 from collapsing from heat exhaustion.

Something tells me in my heart-of-hearts -that the owners of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop don't give a damn about the welfare of their customers - just the almighty buck.

What do you expect from grave-robbers!

NEWS UPDATE
In response to complaints, the owners have made improvements!

Post: 08/20/11

http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2011/08/gold-silver-pawn-shopinstalls-mister-to.html

Kudos!

nonglish...definition by Julian Ayrs!

The word - nonglish - is one that is often uttered up by an immigrant in bustling third-world cities (such as Los Angeles and New York) when a white English-speaking U.S. resident attempts to engage the individual in a conversation in a public place such as at a fast-food take-out, valet parking lot, or what-have-you.

The word translates to "no speak English" or "no English".

In order to move conversations along (and to avoid frustrating and embarrassing scenarios going-down out-of-the-blue) Amercans often refer to the individual to family, friends, and business associates in the following way:

"He's nonglish."

Because the problem has grown to epic proportions, a Republican candidate running for President in the next election is currently pitching a bill that stipulates that only "English" be spoken in Government facilities to prevent the trend from taking root (and crippling day-to-day business) in the Nation's Capitol.

Experts in the field note that the phenomenon has reared its ugly head because immigrants moving from foreign countries to the United States either refuse (or are unable to) learn English and/or assimilate into the culture.

Show compassion.

Say a prayer for them and then move on.

Amen!

Mr. Manners (aka Julian Ayrs)...bike-riding road hogs must abide by rules of the road!

During the course of an interview the other night on Jay Leno, actor Jesse Eisenberg acknowledged that he is an avid bike enthusiast who prefers the two-wheeled mode of transportation to tool around Manhattan.

But, although liberating in many respects, the rising star of the just-released dark comedy - "Thirty Minutes or Less" - fessed up that riding a bike in downtown NYC could prove to be a risky proposition in a city running rampant with wild reckless drivers and thoughtless passengers exiting taxi cabs at whim and without warning in odd unexpected ways.

For example, one day as Mr. Eisenberg was about to fly by a taxi on the driver's side, a tourist flung open the door out-of-the-blue and blocked his path.

Suddenly, the charismatic actor found himself being hurling through the air, as his bike ceremoniously crashed into the car door.

"You'd think they would be required to exit on the street side," he mused, as Leno gazed on with a silly grin on his face.

"So, what happened? Did you have to exchange driver's licenses, and that sort-of-thing," Leno quizzed in so many words.

Eisenberg's response?

Heck, no.

"I was too embarrassed to have been tossed into the street like that with the whole world watching," he uttered up in so many words.

"Oh, you're a great person to have an accident with. No lawyers, nothing," joked Jay.

Suddenly, I realized this was a subject for Mr. Manners to address at long last.

When I was a kid, after all, folks who rode bicyles cycled along with the flow of traffic on the street obeying the laws of the road (as was the case with Mr. Eisenberg).

Today, however, an inconsiderate gang of cyclists have actually taken over the sidewalks.

And, they've claimed the territory in dangerous ways.

Instead of riding in the direction of the traffic - at the curb - these selfish bike-riders elect to zip down the center of the sidewalk - literally expecting pedestrians to jump out of the way when they approach at high speeds.

But, there are worse scenarios to deal with than that.

If the cyclist goes against the flow - chances are - fhe pedestrian may not spy the speeding projectile coming from behind.

If the unsuspecting walker steps an inch or two left or right on the sidewalk, he or she may end up getting creamed!

Ouch!

Not a pretty sight!

The problem is aggravated by the fact that a large percentage of bicycle riders are irresponisble, too.

For example, few have installed a "bell" on their gleaming machines to prevent potential "crashes" from occurring with unwitting victims innocently strolling down the street.

The fact that a posse of bike owners have neglected to mount "headlamps" on the handlebars to facilitate night-riding has also begged the question.

Do the rules of the road apply to these bicycle road hogs?

According to Mr. Manners:
"Absolutely!"

"In a civilized society - where cycling on two wheels is becoming more of a norm - bike-riders are required to be courteous to pedestrians - and motorists alike - and abide by the rules of the road."

For starters, installing a bell - or other warning device (shouting "heh you!" won't do) - is an absolute must.

A night "light" is also a prerequisite when a bike-lover opts to take a carefree cruise about the city environs after dark.

Of course, it goes without saying, that pedestrians have the right-of-way on sidewalks, and not the other way around.

I can't count the number of times a cyclist has whizzed by me (and other tourists on the strip) and rudely shouted:

"Get out of the way!"

Mr. Manners recommends the pedestrian faced with such a dilemma hold their ground.

It's easier for a pedestrian to step out-of-the-way last minute than a cyclist to swerve or stop on a dime to avoid a nasty crash.

You get my drift?