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At long last the pieces are falling into place and I am able to make sense of the mystery of Kelley Lynch (and her bizarre actions) which were puzzling me for months-on-end!
Last year - out-of-the-blue - I began to receive unsolicited pleas from Ms. Lynch (I use the term "Miss" very loosely) via e-mail requesting that I publish unflattering gossip about known Singer-Songwriter Leonard Cohen (a fellow Canuck) who she claimed to have had close associations with (personally and professionally).
Initially, I informed Ms. Lynch that it was not appropriate for me to comment (or intercede on her behalf) publicly in respect to her complex (complicated?) "relationship" with Mr. Cohen (especially in view of the fact the sordid squabble appeared to have been triggered by a love-affair turned sour and was obviously retaliatory in nature).
Today, my suspicions were confirmed when I happened across a feature in the Los Angeles Times, reporting on criminal charges that were brought against Lynch for allegedly threatening and harassing Mr. Cohen over the past couple of years.
The trial is currently underway on the West Coast in Los Angeles Superior Court.
The reporter noted for the record that Lynch - not only acted as Cohen's business manager for a short duration - but also slipped between-the-sheets at one point to pursue a more intimate relationship with the Canadian legend.
After Lynch was apparently rejected as his lover (and fired from a plum cushy post) - according to prosecutors - Lynch proceeded to threaten and harass Mr. Cohen at his e-mail address and by leaving nasty voice-mail messages on his answering machine at home.
On the witness stand yesterday, Mr. Cohen acknowledged that because of the endless ongoing threats, he constantly feared for his safety - and that of his family - as well.
In one voice mail message, she allegedly snarled:
"You need to be taken down and shot."
In another, she apparently hissed:
"You are a sick man...You are a thief...You area common thief."
In defense of his client, Los Angeles Public Defender Michael Kelly (no relation), argued that in this instant case before the court, the unfortunate harassment (and threat of bodily-harm) was all about "relationships and how relationships oftentimes get messy."
Clever argument, but not true in this shocking instance, by a long shot!
I know from whence I speak through personal experience!
For example, in spite of the fact I was initially kind to Ms. Lynch - shortly thereafter - she began to inundate my own e-mail box with dozens of wild communications daily for weeks on end!
In fact, my Yahoo account was so overwhelmed with her "bizarre rantings, that the peaceful flow of communications I once savored with friends and professional contacts in the industry - was seriously thrown into disarray.
A lot of my valuable time was also wasted daily deleting her constant barrage of alarming e-mails, too.
In view of my own unpleasant experience with Ms. Lynch, I don't blame Mr. Cohen for taking the legal action that he has pursued in the local courts.
Clearly, Ms. Lynch has deep-rooted psychological problems and needs professional help, after all.
She's a threat to herself, Cohen, and society - if 'ya ask me!
I trust that the court will render a decision that is just and fair to both parties, though, so that the whole tawdry tale may finally come to close for both their sakes (and that of others like myself who suffered collateral damage on the sidelines needlessly).
Stay posted for updates!
After a week long controversy raged on the broadcast airwaves (and across the Internet) over the "Miss Universe" fiasco (wherein a sex-change contestant was initially barred from competing in the annual glitzy event) Barbara Walters finally tossed a searing spotlight on the issues last night on the 20/20 News Magazine Show.
A few days ago, I put in my own "two cents" worth, when I published - what was undoubtedly - the quote of the day on the topic of "sex changes".
Post: 04/05/12
http://www.ijulian.blogspot.com/2012/04/miss-universesex-change-quote-of-day.html
Since a large majority of TV viewers and Internet Users are familiar with the facts, I won't bore anyone by mining the old territory covered and offering it up in today's post.
However, I am inclined to point a finger at Gloria Allred, on the heels of the stupid remarks she uttered up on the Walter's segment - which were not only off-point, but, totally irrelevant.
For example, in the interview which aired last evening, Ms. Allred (the champion of women's rights?) huffed:
"Did we ask Donald Trump to show his genitalia or prove that he is a natural-born man," she hissed in so many words.
Duh!
Mr. Trump is not a contestant, so it should be obvious to any fool with half a brain, that Allred's argument is ridiculous at best!
The Hollywood "darling" is losing it.
In fact, it's crystal clear to MOI, that she doesn't know her **** from a hole in the ground.
Don't like my opinion, Ms. Allred?
Then sue me, please!
I need the money.
Officials at The Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival have announced their line-up of outstanding movies for the upcoming 28th edition of their much-anticipated culturally-diverse annual event.
The festival has been bumped back to May10th this year and runs through May 20th at three popular venues which include the Director's Guild of America (DGA), CGV Cinemas (Koreatown), and the Art Theatre in Long Beach.
The Festival is honored to partner with the Directors Guild of America as the main screening venue during the Festival’s weekend kick-off. This state of the art theater is where the Festival will screen its opening night film - in addition to - its "Centerpiece" presentations.
The LAAPFF runs in tandem with the Asian Pacific Heritage Month celebrations, which spotlight a slate of 188 films this year, which were fathomed up by a bevy of talented insightful "Asian Pacific American" and "Asian International" directors from over 20 countries.
This year, 46 feature films and 142 shorts will be showcased throughout the high-profile prestigious 10-day fest.
The Los Angeles premiere of "SHANGHAI CALLING" (directed by Daniel Hsia) is expected to garner a lot of buzz and - ultimately - sell-out.
The flick - a romantic comedy - stars international heartthrob Daniel Henney (who appeared in X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE; THREE RIVERS).
Hsia is a 2003 alumnus of Visual Communications.
This is Hsia’s feature-length directorial debut and stars Eliza Coupe (HAPPY ENDINGS) and Bill Paxton (BIG LOVE, HAYWIRE).
The main plot puts the searing spotlight on modern-day immigrants living in an unfamiliar land.
At press time, it was announced that the filmmaker, cast, and crew were slated to attend the screening.
“We are excited to present Hsia’s film on our opening night, beamed David Magdael, the Festival's Co-Producer.
“As one of one of our talented alums, we are proud to watch him grow as a filmmaker.”
"SUNSET STORIES" (directed by Silas Howard and Ernesto M. Foronda) will be the festival’s "Centerpiece" presentation.
The project is Foronda's first attempt at directing a full-length feature.
"SUNSET STORIES" stars Sung Kang (FAST FIVE; NINJA ASSASSIN) and Monique Curnen (CONTAGION; THE DARK KNIGHT) and is a fast-paced ride which - according to the producers - spins a uniquely L.A. story of about love and control.
The festival’s International "Centerpiece" is the Sundance Festival award-winning film - "VALLEY OF SAINTS" - which was directed by Musa Syeed and produced by Nicholas Bruckman.
The film is an India/USA production which is set in exotic Kashmir.
A drama unfolds when a young tourist boatman and his best friend try to escape from provincial life in their humble lake village.
"VALLEY OF SAINTS" won two major awards at Sundance: the "World Cinema Grand Prize" and the "Alfred P. Sloan Award".
The Saturday Night Gala slot, which always screens a crowd-pleasing film every year without fail, will be filled by a wild sex comedy "YES, WE’RE OPEN".
A Bay area screenwriter - H.P. Mendoza (and director Richard Wong) - helmed this entertaining fun project.
According to the press release, "YES" is a contemporary spin on a classic predicament which takes an intimate look at liberal San Francisco lifestyles over dinner and drinks (with a side of infidelity).
Award-winning director Tsao Jui-Yuan’s "JOYFUL REUNION" will also screen as the festival's closing night presentation.
The off-beat flick is a follow up to Ang Lee’s "EAT DRINK MAN WOMAN, JOYFUL REUNION" and promises to introduce filmgoers to familial bonds that surround a vegetarian restaurant.
Essentially, it is being billed as a "foodie film", which puts an insightful spotlight on relationships, and family ties (and also showcases Taiwanese and Chinese regional cuisines that will leave your mouth watering).
“We are honored to present these award-winning and culturally-diverse films that represent the broad global spectrum of Asian American cinema,” underscored Anderson Le, the Festival's Artistic Director.
“In a banner year for Asian American and Asian cinema, these gala presentations present strong voices, global settings and stories with universal appeal.”
By the way, this year - for the first time - the LAAPFF expands to the Long Beach arena during the closing weekend, where Film Festival award-winners and a showcase of Pacific Islander works will be presented at the historic Art Theater of Long Beach.
Two outstanding films to be screened include the Venice and Sundance Festival favorite "THE ORATOR (O le Tulafele)" directed by Tusi Tamasese - and - SIONE’S 2: UNFINISHED BUSINESS (a sequel to SAMOAN WEDDING) directed by Simon Bennet.
Other highlights include the Hawaiian documentary "PAPA MAU: THE WAY FINDER" directed by Na’alehu Anthony; the Eco-awareness" documentary "THERE ONCE WAS AN ISLAND" (Te Henua e Nnoho) directed by Briar March; the Cambodian American feature "TWO SHADOWS" directed by Greg Cahill; Festival favorite "GOLDEN SLUMBERS" directed by Cambodian French director Davy Chou (about the golden and lost era of Cambodian cinema which was eventually destroyed by the Khmer Rouge regime).
“As Southern California’s premier Asian Pacific American media arts center, we see the Festival’s expansion to Long Beach as a great opportunity to reach new audiences,” added Shinae Yoon, the Festival's Executive Producer.
“This is part of a bigger picture to expand Visual Communications’ footprint into the South Bay, and eventually, Orange County.”
Through the LAAPFF, Visual Communicatgions (VC) also launches two major programs that will expand the organization’s artist services in a major way.
The C3 Project Market (a first-of-its-kind program) is a unique opportunity for filmmakers of Asian descent to showcase their narrative features and projects to Financiers, Producers, Production Companies, Agents, Managers and Industry Executives.
"The project will enable them to share contacts, information - and thus - gain the confidence they need to make their film," one organizer emphasized at press time.
Winners will snap up a cash prize of $5000 for the best project pitched during the course of the festival.
In addition, the VC Film Development Fund (underwritten by Comcast) has been created to nurture established filmmakers and potential film project.
The Fund is a multi-year program (where VC will act as Executive Producers) whose sole purpose is to develop narrative feature-length projects (as provide financing up to $100,000.00 as well).
The six filmmakers chosen for the Fund award will be announced at the "Opening Night" ceremonies at the DGA.
“The C3 Project Market and the VC Film Development Fund continues Visual Communications’ mission to nurture and incubate filmmakers from our community,” notede ShinaeYoo with pride.
“We’re delighted to launch these new and sustainable initiatives for emerging and established filmmakers and providing opportunities to cultivate and grow Asian American cinema.”
The 2012 documentary competition line-up includes:
CHINA HEAVYWEIGHT - Yung Chang
GIVE UP TOMORROW – Michael Collins
MR. CAO GOES TO WASHINGTON – S. Leo Chiang
RESTORING THE LIGHT – Carol Liu
SEEKING ASIAN FEMALE – Debbie Lum
UPLOADED: THE ASIAN AMERICAN MOVEMENT – Kane Diep
WHERE HEAVEN MEETS HELL – Sasha Friedlander
The Narrative Competition includes:
THE CRUMBLES - Akira Boch
HANG LOOSE – Ryan Kawamoto
I AM A GHOST – H.P. Mendoza
KNOTS – Michael Kang
MODEL MINORITY – Lily Mariye
PARADISE BROKEN – James Sereno
SALAD DAYS – Hiram Chan
SHANGHAI CALLING – Daniel Hsia
SUNSET STORIES – Ernesto M. Foronda, Silas Howard
SURROGATE VALENTINE 2: DAYLIGHT SAVINGS – David Boyle
TWO SHADOWS – Greg Cahill
VALLEY OF SAINTS – Musa Syeed
VIETTE – Mye Hoang
YES, WE’RE OPEN – Richard Wong
For program information, a complete list of sponsors & partners and to purchase tickets:
www.vconline.org/festival
Contact:
Visual Communications
(213) 680-4462
(ext 59)
Tickets go on sale on April 13th!
See 'ya there!
Say what you mean
and
mean what you say
and
Life's little dramas
will
pass you by
daily!
Julian Ayrs
Divine Grace
A Collection of Poems
It wasn't an over-the-top glitzy fundraiser - along the lines of those thousand-dollar chi chi spectacles tossed for President Obama - but the relatively low-key event (to raise funds for Torie Osborn's bid for a State Assembly seat in California) had its entertaining and politically- informative moments.
For example, on the heels of screening a series of hilarious clips which focused on a "cast" of zany TV & stage characters Lily Tomlin fleshed out over a long-and-distinguished performing career, the quirky comedienne launched into an impromptu sketch featuring lovable favorite - "Ernestine" - set in the claims department of a fictional Health Care provider.
All of the timely "politically-oriented" gags brought the house down.
"Oh, that's elective surgery. We elect not to pay for it," Ernestine quipped to one imaginary client, as the audience roared knowingly.
In fact, a dozen-or-so well-written one-liners (like the ones quoted below) kept the Osborn supporters in stitches during Tomlin's brief stint on stage.
"We don't care if you're fed up. We only care that you are paid up," she huffed to one mighty angry so-and-so.
"HMO doesn't mean help me out, 'ya know," she snapped back in a knee-jerk reaction.
At this juncture, Ms. Tomlin shifted gears a tad, and was inclined to express her angst over the ways words and phrases have been transformed in recent years.
"They've changed the name of the homeless, for instance," she lamented.
"They're now called neighbour."
"Swipe used to be what we called stealing. Today, it means you're swiping to pay with your debit card."
On occasion, she mused about hilarious offbeat subjects, too.
"I know that peanut oil comes from peanuts and that olive oil comes from olives. But, I worry about where Baby oil comes from."
And finally, the joke that topped 'em all, with the biggest round of applause?
"Did you see that program on TV about the black hole in the Universe which is sucking up people and everything else thing into it? They can't figure out whether to call it Twitter or Facebook."
Ba-dump!
On a more serious note, Ms. Tomlin proceeded to pitch for political candidate Torie Osborn (a personal friend for years) and a bid for her seat in the State Assembly.
Lily started off by pooh-poohing the Republican powers-that-be - and hinted that their ideas - may end up nudging Californians down a slippery road to hell.
"When the politicians talk about a new chapter, I sure hope it's not Chapter 11," she joked, as Osborn's supporters egged her on.
"If money is the root of all evil, would be be a good thing to be broke?" she wondered aloud.
When Ms. Osborn finally took the podium, supporters sprang to their feet in unison, and gave her a thunderous standing ovation.
Ms. Osborn was gracious and down-to-earth in the overwhelming aftermath.
In fact, earlier in the evening, I spied the effervescent politician dashing up the aisles to greet guests - in a patterned shirt-jacket fashioned in eye-catching hues of turquoise and blue (teamed with a chic black "t" and tasteful dress slacks that matched up) - and lead 'em by the hand to their comfy seats in the orchestra pit.
By the way, Osborn is quite unlike the overly-coiffed plastic-looking females who tend to populate the political terrain.
Indeed!
Osborne comes across as somebody's caring "Mom".
In her brief chat with the supporters present, she underscored it was time to bring back the "California Dream", and that the spanking newly-created 50th seat in the State Assembly was a great place to start in the years ahead.
Sheila Keuhl - who was also on hand - went a step farther.
After noting that the 50th seat was comprised of a handful of tony neighborhoods (such as Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Malibu, and West Hollywood, to name a few) she made an astute observation.
"It's an open seat for a fabulous candidate," she enthused.
"And, that candidate is Torie Osborn!"
Kat Kramer - the daughter of legendary filmmaker Stanley Kramer - sang her praises, too.
In fact, when I first strolled into the lobby of the DGA, I spied Ms. Kramer - elegant as usual and dressed-to-the-nines (with Mother in tow) - waving a ubiquitous sign with "TORIE" etched on its face in bold colorful print.
After informing me that her other daughter was in the car parked outside under-the-weather, Mrs. Kramer was inclined to beg off the festivities, unfortunately.
"Kat, stay with your friends," she half-whispered to her daughter, before disappearing out the front door.
I would be remiss if I did not mention that Kat Kramer is a good friend of Ms. Tomlin, and that she tossed a musical tribute for the brilliant comic last February which was well-received.
I missed it because I was in San Francisco.
"It was a first. I am planning to organize another one in the near future," Kat confided.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JZUih0XBIY&feature=email
Kat's personal project - "Kat Kramer's Films That Change The World" - has also been garnering kudos from the media, filmmakers, and the industry-at-large in recent days.
It dawned on me this morning that the likes of women such as - Kat Kramer, Lily Tomlin, Torie Osborn, and Sheila Keuhl - just may end up "changing the world" together if last night's events are any indication.
For Torie Osborn, we'll see what fate has in store for her on election day, eh?
Get the vote out!
Bruce Vilanch brought house down with Mae West anecdotes!
Hal Sparks comic relief packed a wallop!
(Queer as Folk)
The tabloid press on one entertainment show engaged in a field day last night, in the wake of titillating gossip circulating Tinseltown, that Jeremy Renner is gay!
Rumors are bound to persist if an eligible bachelor tends to stroll down the red carpet alone (or with his mother by his side) every time a high-profile award ceremony rolls around (unlike "out" actor Neal Patrick Harris).
Is it possible, that Renner is discreetly giving secret hand signals to a boy-toy pining away at home on the couch, who he has urged to remain in the shadows to protect his macho image?
After all, a posse of Hollywood producers and directors are pretty darn homophobic, and are a force to reckon with.
Actually, I interviewed Mr. Renner at the premier of "Hurt Locker" and there didn't appear to be a swishy bone in his muscular bod.
Now, that's good acting, eh?
Just kidding.
What gets Renner's - um - goat?
"The issue is not about being gay," he asserted to one probing reporter.
"It's about the rude intrusion into my personal life," he fumed, in so many words.
Yeah, no one wants to get caught with their pants down, even if there is nothing to be embarrassed about.
Oh, there I go again!
By the way, I recall that Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau once read his fellow Canadians the riot act, when the sticky subject reared its ugly head in "Hollywood North" decades ago.
"The Government has no business in the bedrooms of its citizens," he cautioned, just prior to legalizing homosexuality between consenting males.
Stay posted for updates as the controversy around Renner continues to swirl!
The songbird is being hailed as the future of soul, pop, and R&B.
And, if you're not sure who I am referring to, take a bow Emeli Sandé!
Ms. Sandé is a standout artist from the U.K. who is causing quite a buzz in the industry.
And, MySpace - always keen on what's up-and-coming and ultra-cool in respect to recording artists - has jumped on the bandwagon (and singing her praises) for starters.
But, Emili can't boast being an overnight sensation.
In fact, the exotic-looking stage persona has certainly paid her dues.
Sandé began writing tracks for high-profile artists such as Professor Green, Cheryl Cole, Tinie Tempah, and Devlin.
But, the multi-talented gal from across the great pond, didn't first become known in the public eye until she was featured on rapper Chipmunk's third single "Diamond Rings".
First time out-of-the-gate, the recording effort rustled up her and Chipmunk a top 10 single on the UK Singles Chart.
It was all in a day's work to Emili.
"I was doing a show in London for 1Xtra and I met this guy called Naughty Boy. We got in the studio and we clicked work wise. We just started writing, not necessarily for me, we just thought ‘let's write a pop tune’ and experiment. And we wrote the Chipmunk track and I thought nothing of it. Naughty Boy sent it off to Chipmunk who really liked it and wrote his stuff around it."
According to Ms. Sandé, the key elements to a good song are "honesty" and "raw emotion".
"If I try to attempt to write something which is "too smart" the creative process will not work for me," she fessed up in so many words.
By being true to herself, well-deserved kudos have been coming her musical way.
For instance, on December 15th (2011), the charismatic chanteuse was named the "Brit Awards Critics' Choice" for the year 2012.
By the way, Sandé`s debut album is chock-full of her own original material and has been described by serious critics as having a "richly melodic, classically powerful, retro-futurist soul-pop songs."
The album peaked number 1 and 2 in the UK and Ireland and charted in over 10 European countries and Australia.
For the record?
Emili has acknowledged that musical greats - such as Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell and Lauryn Hill - have greatly influenced her roster of songs.
On the other hand, world peace and political issues are inclined to inspired her creativity, for sure.
Still waters run deep, eh?
Catch her next concert and find out what fans are raving about!
Frontiers magazine is celebrating a milestone on April 22nd at the "Eleven Bar & Restaurant" (on Larrabee Street's old historic recording studio site).
The cause for the revelry?
For the past thirty years the influential slick publication has been a "proud" voice in the community!
During that time frame, the editors & publisher have dished up (in more ways than one!) a smattering of insightful celebrity interviews, reviews (film, music, theatre), politically-correct features, regular columnists (such as gossip Queen "Billy Masters"), travel tips, nightclub and restaurant recommendations, you name it.
Understandably, Frontiers heads into the 31st year with great optimism for the future - and with that in mind - is inviting residents to pop in and join in on the upbeat festivities which will include live performances by sizzling-hot talent, an open bar between 3 and 5 p.m. in the afternoon, special giveaways, exciting raffle prizes, and what-not!
A silent auction will also be held to benefit the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center.
Intended attendees are urged to RSVP to FrontiersLA.com/RSVP
See 'ya there!
Today, Carmelita Couture started following me on TWITTER, so I was inclined to take a gander at the fashion designer's web site.
Wow!
Within minutes, I found myself confronted by a pretty dazzling collection of women's wear - especially for the confident gal - anxious to stand out in a crowd!
According to Carmelita's handlers, the spanking new collection is made up of innovative pieces with a "bold yet sophisticated style". In addition, they honor Ms. Martell honors love of travel, dance, and the arts by fusing her own original prints and silhouettes with the modern and architectural influences of metropolitan fashion into a wearable artistic expression.
"Our biggest inspiration is our own desire to dress in a fun, feminine, individualistic way," Martell enthused in her classy press release this morning.
Check out her show-stopping collection, eh?
http://shopcarmelita.com/
A part of a town which creatively inspired folk singer Woody Guthrie will bear his name in the near future in downtown Los Angeles at 5th & Main Streets.
On Wednesday the Public Works Committee approved a motion by Ninth District Councilwoman - Jan Perry - to rename the intersection:
“Woody Guthrie Square"
The actual process is in its early stages.
Although the proposed name has not been posted yet, eventually, ceremonial signs will be hoisted up to commemorate the gifted legendary musician.
Guthrie, was a unique talent who was born in 1912.
With tunes like - "This Land is Your Land" - he gave a voice to the working class across America.
One of his best-known hits - “Fifth Street Blues" - was inspired by his actual experiences at the intersection at 5th and Main!
The unique performer with the distinctive style frequently performed with the slogan "This Machine Kills Fascists" displayed on his guitar.
Many musical greats - such as Bob Dylan, Tom Paxton, Phil Ochs, and Bruce Springsteen - have acknowledged that Guthrie greatly influenced their own musical musings over the years.
He was a prolific writer who wrotes hundreds of tunes which included political ditties, traditional pieces, ballads, children's songs, you name it.
Many of his compositions were about his experiences in the "Dust Bowl" during the era of the troubling depression; consequently, he earned the nickname the "Dust Bowl Troubadour".
Woody Guthrie was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame in 1997.
In tandem with the slated festive celebrations, the Grammy Museum (located at 800 W. Olympic Boulevard) will present a free lecture by museum Executive Director Bob Santelli on the artist (April 7th).
The discussion will be focus on Guthrie's life and legacy.
The program lauunches at 11 a.m. and kick-off “Woody Guthrie Week” (which runs through April 14th).
Fans and historians alike will be treated to features films, lectures, workshops, education programs and concerts.
See 'ya there!
Author William Dear
Obviously, the OJ SIMPSON murder mystery is not going away (not quietly into the night at least)!
The frenzied response to a recently-released book by long-time Private Investigator William C. Dear - who worked on the case - is a testament to that fact.
Now that the book is garnering a lot of high-profile mediaattention, Dear is hopeful that the case will be reopened.
Rightly so!
According to one guest in attendance at a a book-signing event last night at Book Soup in West Hollywood, Dear's latest entry into the publishing world triggers a sort-of second-think about the spotty murder investigation - and ultimately - throws serious doubts on the findings of the LAPD and those dredged up in court in the aftermath.
Although there are dozens of books on the shelf with a myriad of theories about the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and her male friend Ron Goldman, Dear's supporters are touting his investigative twist on the tragedy for one very sound reason.
"For the most part, all the authors who have turned-out their takes on the crime of the century, have simply regurgitated the same old facts," one Dear enthusiast summed up.
Subsequently, hard-nosed critics of the LAPD (and the judiciary) have applauded Dear for a read that - not only appears to open new doors to evidence previously overlooked - but also raises serious questions about the investigation, the way it was handled, and other burning questions (why?).
"The lawyers were paid a lot of money to find OJ SIMPSON guilty," Dear argued last night, as the rapt attendees listened all-ears.
According to Dear, the LAPD ignored blatant clues he rustled up (by way of tried-and-true investigative techniques) that ultimately pointed an accusing finger at another suspect - none other than OJ Simpson's son - Jason.
In fact, Dear's handlers uncovered evidence right from the get-go, that caused even the most stalwart of individuals to sit up and take notice once it was brought to their attention.
For example, a wool "cap" similar to the one mentioned at trial, was found in a storage space that was rented by Jason Simpson during the course of the initial police probe, alongside a set of diaries which included incriminating references to the events tucked inside.
In addition, Dear later determined that an alibi Jason offered up to investigators (in the form of a time card at a restaurant he worked at the night the murders were committed) had been tampered with.
When all of the evidence Dear collected was presented in a well-received award-winning documentary on the OJ Simpson case, it was so compelling, that even those with a definite mind set (OJ is guilty!) were forced to admit the it was difficult to look the other way.
I attended the screening, and concluded wholeheartedly at the time, that Dear's intriguing "jig-saw puzzle" - when pieced together methodically and painstakingly - made a lot of sense.
Based on the theories presented in the doc, I came up with a conclusion-or-two of my own, as well.
The post on the doc - "OJ is Guilty But Not of Murder" - is located at the link below:
Post: 04/04/08
http://ijulian.blogspot.com/2008/04/oj-is-guiltybut-not-of-murder-wins-best.html
Now that the evidence and Dear's perspective on the case have been published in book form, it is wholly conceivable that the public will demand that the investigation be reopened and so that Justice may at-long-last be served.
"I have been pushing for a Grand Jury trial for fifteen years," the articulate gent noted with obvious frustration.
And, Dear has paid dearly (no pun intended) for his efforts.
For instance, he is convinced that the LAPD is out to get him for exposing their shortcomings (and corruption) during the exhaustive investigation.
"If they knew I was here tonight, they would run me out of town," he half-joked.
And, over the course of the slippery long-and-winding road, he proved he was no shrinking violet, either.
The veteran investigator acknowledged that he was always keen on having a one-on-one with Marcia Clark to discuss the controversies which reared their head since the early commencement of the case.
"But, she wouldn't give me the time of day," he lamented in so many words.
At this point, Dear was inclined to to satiate the hunger of die-hard murder-mystery sleuths present by dropping a juicy bombshell or two.
"I know things about Marcia Clark. That's why she wouldn't agree to a discussion in an open public forum."
Say what?
After a slight murmur rippled through the room, Dear was also inferred that Clark's intentions were not all that pure either, in the final analysis.
"Marcia Clark made about 3.5 million dollars on this case," he asserted without batting an eyelash and a twinkle in his eye.
Dear was also saddened by the fact that he was unable to probe Chris Darden (who he alleges scoffed up $750,000.00 at his end of the bench) on the issues, as well.
"Darden passed away before I was able to set it up," he admitted woefully.
Even still, Dear is optimistic the truth will come to light eventually.
Stay posted for updates, eh?
By the way, if readers are interested in snapping up the book, Dear encourages folks to purchase the fascinating read at "Book Soup" on Sunset Boulevard in WeHo.
"It's my favourite bookstore in town," he beamed.
No wonder!
The owners contribute much to the community-at-large.
Kudos!
Bette Midler eat your heart out!
According to Jeffrey Sanker's handlers, the "White Party" - which kicks-off this weekend in exotic Palm Springs - is expected to be a cutting-edge phenomenon providing a zillion thrills a second!
Uh-huh!
The much-anticipated bash in the desert oasis - which attracts a smattering of hunky pumped-up dudes from around the face-of-the-globe each spring - is going 3-D.
The festive event will feature bold LED and visual displays, extravagant super-sized spacious stages, and a 3-D-inspired dance dome that is expected to be light up the night sky.
"We have something for everyone," boasted event organizer and founder Jeffrey Sanker.
"The best memories are made at a White Party," he beamed ecstatically to all within earshot on a recent press junket.
It all launches with a dazzling "White Carpet" extravaganza at the Palm Springs Convention Center hosted by Pinky Vanderpump ("Queen of the White Party") with fabulous jewels and all!
But, for many, the main dynamite headliner worth catching is nine-time Grammy Award-Winner Mary J. Blige.
At a tea-dance over the weekend, X-Factor's Melanie Amaro is also booked to perform live for the hot-to-trot (oh-so-sophisticated) boys who love to frolic hedonistic-style in the afternoon sun!
Which reminds me, The GRINDR POOL PARTY is one of the hottest tickets in town (billed the largest of its kind on this or any other coast) which 'ya won't want 'ta miss, dahlinks!
The closing party is bound to be a blow-out, too!
See 'ya there!
