Hugh Jackman...he said what about sex & Americans?

Jackman he-man persona revs up fans!

In response to persistent rumors about his sexuality, Hugh Jackman was inclined to go on record this past week and note in so many eloquent words, that he is not - aw! - gay!

Actually, it is what the buffed heart-throb didn't say, that may have raised a spectre of doubt in a handful of die-hard homoerotically-inspired male fans.

Jackman didn't say he wasn't bisexual!

Oh boy, now the rumor mills will start churning out the dirt, eh?

Yeah, I think like a sneak, I know.

I've heard so much double-talk from Bill Clinton over the years, that I am inclined to be on-the-ready to dissect chest hairs, if necessary.

The debonair leading man (who just recently hosted one the highest-rated Academy Awards shows in recent years) was careful not to ruffle any peacock feathers, though.

On the heels of his public "non-outing", the Australian star was quick to follow-up with a statement sure to keep him out of hot water with gays activists (pansies, too) around the globe.

"There is nothing shameful about it (homosexuality)."

Did he ever give it the old "college try" in the locker-room shower, I wonder?

Hugh (married with children) wasn't a shrinking violet when it came to the subject of the American psyche as it pertained to animal passions (sex).

"The questions about sexuality I find more here in America than anywhere else, because its a big hang-up and defines what people think about themselves and others."

"Its not a big issue in Australia," he added as he swaggered off into the sunset.

What a stud, eh?

Ever been in the sack with a Daddy?

http://www.julianayrs.com

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Cannes Film Festival...snobs turn up noses at bloggers! French merde!

Gauche promotion that is true Cannes!

Pregnant pauses!

In spite of a downturn in the economy in recent months, a handful of bloggers have been stashing away cash in order to rustle up airfare and Hotel accommodation, with the aim of attending the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in May (2009).

If this excited wave of Internet Journalists expect to trot the red carpet, interview celebs amid the glitz and glamour of the Internet Jet Set - or even rub shoulders with the tony elite in Southern France - they may be disappointed when they arrive at the pearly gates!

Undoubtedly, the party crashers will be waved away by a snooty Official attired a lot like a stuffy maitre d' at a 3 Star restaurant.

Yes, a few Bloggers and Internet Journalists have grumbled about the fact Festival Officials gave them the-run-around when they applied for press credentials for the much-ballyhooed event.

"How many unique impressions does your site get a month?" one staffer sniffed.

In addition, the status of the publication writers were in the employ of, was of utmost importance to the phony-baloney snots.

"Please provide the site address for the head office of your publication on the Internet."

If the applicant's site was listed under the auspices of a web site such as technorati, blogspot, or - God forbid - wordpress, they were given the old heave-ho post haste.

"There is such a demand for the passes that we can only grant them to a select few."

Of course, reporters from the New York Times, a major Television Network, or journalists penning copy for a U.S. publication with subscriptions tallies that stagger the imagination, are given carte blanche!

It all boils down to numbers, maximum coverage, and a big bucks audience.

Normally, just prior to the big launch in Cannes each dazzling new season, bloggers and Internet journalists alike are inclined to publish a raft of gushing press clips, with a big thrust on celebs that plan to bask in the glow of the spotlight, award-winning films to grace the French Cinema screens, in tandem with a ton of delicious titillating gossip about the party circuit, fashion scene, who's screwing who, and that sort-of-thing.

Yes, Internet writers are a force to contend with on these shores and on those abroad, no question.

What if the blogosphere militia left the Cannes Film Festival out in the cold this year, if only to make the point?

Would the frogs do a sudden about-face and invite bloggers to their murky little lily pond next year?

I, for one, am not going to pen any post on the Cannes Film Festival hereinafter, nor do I intend to promote their overrated festival (which ranks a big zero in my eyes, all things considered, on the heels of the aforementioned fiasco).

Frankly, I've had enough of "Boutique" films rife with painstakingly long pauses, sketchy subtitles that beg interpretation, and gobs of butter masquerading as "Art" to intentionally fu** the filmgoer up the a**.

In the alternative, I plan to rent a DVD or two, hop into bed with a bevy of fluffy pillows courtesy of Martha Stewart, and wash down a plateful of scrumptious freedom fries with a goblet or two of vintage wine from the Napa Valley.

Paris (Nevada) even looks more inviting these days!

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Arnold Schwarzenegger...to appear in Salvation! Terminator 4 stars hot-head Christian Bale...

Yawn!

Thanks to Twitter, Terminator scuttlebutt is off-and-running and setting the stage for a much-anticipated star-studded red-carpet premiere next month.


When the Governator was first approached about appearing in "Salvation" (which stars temperamental actor Christian Bale in the lead role in what amounts to a 4th installment of the successful Terminator franchise) the former pumping iron stud thought the project might interfere with his "day" job, according to wife Maria Shriver by way of clandestine tweet.


And, you surmised by his lacklustre performance in Sacramento of late, that Arnold wasn't wiling away any hours in the office at all, eh?

Naw, he's just an effectual son-of-a-gun!

Anyhoo, the director conjured up a great film scenario when the dilemma reared its ugly head.

In the latest plot twist for the Terminator ("Salvation") Christian Bale's character will uncover the fact that Schwarzenegger's menacing persona is actually a "future" terminator ripe for blowing away.

Through the magical wizardry of leading edge technology in the special effects field, the aging Austrian hunk will grace the silver screen by virtue of old footage from the 1st Terminator movie - albeit - artfully touched up.

The studio vows up and down that no one will be able to fathom the difference.

Yeah, right!

I wonder, though, will filmgoers be treated once again to that eye-popping shot of Schwarzenegger dropping to the earth stark naked in the prime of his manhood?

Fans will have to spring for a ticket to find out.

"Salvation" isn't even going to make it to my DVD list anytime soon, though.

Like Arnold, the ongoing theatrical saga has gotten old and gray, in my estimation.

Not even Geritol could save the franchise!

http://www.julianayrs.com

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CIA...memogate! Barack Obama to investigate torture techniques?

That was then, this is now!

The Secretary of State - Hillary Clinton - emphatically stated on a morning news broadcast that the Government should get to the bottom of it.

Later, a network news shows aired a terse statement Dick Cheney issued to the press in which he asserted for the record that he previously urged that pertinent CIA documents be declassified to shed light on the controversy over CIA interrogation "techniques".

Understandably, in the wake of a big brouhaha building momentum across the Nation, President Barack Obama is now pushing for an investigation of "memogate" and subsequent allegations that the CIA engaged in questionable information-gathering techniques that may have included acts of outright torture (such as "waterboarding").

A spokesperson for the Government was inclined to defend the CIA and its questionable conduct, after offering up two comments in support of his position.

First, he noted for the record that precautions always have to be taken to ensure the values of the American people are upheld in a civilized society.

Then, on the heels of that loaded statement, he inferred by virtue of his follow-up comments, that he was inclined to back CIA arm-twisting tactics now in controversy, due to the extraordinary circumstances that have faced the Nation since 9/11.

We must also defend the people from acts of terrorism and take whatever steps are necessary to ensure their safety and well-being, he added in so many words.

In other quarters, an official attempted to assay the fears of his underlings this past week, by alleging that the "interrogations" produced valuable information.

However, he stopped short of any bold-faced claims that the controversial techniques - which some say amounted to primitive acts of torture on foreign prisoners of War - made the practice acceptable.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, President Obama expressed his own private outrage by noting for the record that the "methods" allegedly used by the CIA underscored that Americans were "losing their bearings".

Even still, the news keeps flip-flopping on Capitol Hill, as politicians appear to be taking cover to save their own sorry hides.

For example, Dennis Blair (Director Of National Intelligence) contradicted his own "statement" twice in one day.

In one memo that was circulating in the hallowed halls of Justice (!) in Washington, Blair asserted that useful information was obtained through the controversial CIA techniques.

Critics jumped on that issue when it was revealed that in a statement released later the same day, the top Intel honcho appeared to be reticent about taking the position that the interrogations - that facilitated physical abuse to extract information - netted any worthwhile data.

Blair is ignorant to at least one truism which may be his downfall.

For an untruthful individual to make their way successfully through a web of deceit without hitting a land mine or two, it is always of paramount importance to keep track of (and remember) the lies!

Yup, the fiasco did not end there.

In a third communication, after the press threw a spotlight on all the irregularities to date, an official turned everything on its ear when he piped up that the techniques were, in fact, fruitful.

"However, there was no way of knowing whether the same information could have been obtained through other means."

Bullsh**!

Does Blair think we all have "stupid" written on our foreheads?

Read between the lines, take stock of what has unfolded to date, and it should be obvious.

A whole can of worms is about to expose the ugly underbelly of the CIA.

Ultimately, it is only through the CIA memos, classified documents, and direct testimony of expert witnesses in the proper forum, that the truth will be ferreted out - eventually (!).

The Watergate break-in comes to mind at this juncture.

Which was the most egregious act - the actual break-in itself - or the attempted cover-up of the illegal activities after-the-fact?

Curiously, it was announced today that any CIA agent who simply carried out orders at the behest of superiors - will not be charged or prosecuted for any criminal acts.

Was there a behind-the-scenes agreement pacted with said Agents recently in order to pave the way for their eye-witness testimony?

Enquiring minds want to know.

Meanwhile, the henchmen - upper level management types at the CIA who structured the operations - may not get off the hook so easily.

In retrospect, it appears there was a "secret Government" within the "outer" one elected by the "people", operating beyond the arm of the law without any oversight or checks or balances.

And, they should be nailed to the proverbial cross, for that!

News at 11!

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LA Times Festival of Books...Michael J. Fox, Henry Winkler, Brook Shields, Gore Vidal, & Tori Spelling to appear! April 25th & 26th...

Well, if you're an autograph hound, or like to hang around celebrities, the Festival of Books kicking off this weekend at UCLA (April 25th & 26th) is apt to provide a lofty climb or two.

The big thrust, of course, is on a myriad of publications from all genres - from kids' illustrated books, to romantic novels, and rare comics - that will be artfully displayed in picturesque tents about the well-manicured grounds.

In addition, the spotlight will be tossed on a thought-provoking series of panel discussions, and high-profile celebrities who will be heading them up.

Got to lure John Doe in the gate, somehow, eh?

Well-known actors like Michael J. Fox (Back to the Future), the Blog Queen (Not Perez Hilton, silly) Arianna Huffington, and a handful of popular radio talk show hosts and columnists will all be touting something or other like snake-oil salesmen.

Like you, I'll be front-row-center, devouring all the delicious offerings.

Entrance to the Festival grounds is free.

Golly, a number of the panel discussions are gratis, too.

However, it is important to note that while a handful of tickets for indoor panel events are free, they must be picked up in advance at ticketmaster.

Drats!

Those blood-suckers are going to charge 75 cents a pop for each ticket scarfed up!

There will be six outdoor stages, as well, where in-your-face stars such as Tori Spelling (spoiled little rich girl, I expect), Maureen McCormick (Brady Bunch aficionado), and Oscar-Winning actress Cloris Leachman will kick up their heels.

Who knows, in view of the fact the Festival is strewn about such a wide expanse on UCLA campus, the seasoned pros may turn up in sensible walking shoes!

I'll cast a blind eye in that event, ladies!

The sponsors are reminding book-lovers and celebrity stalkers alike to drag along a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and bottles of hydrating water ((especially in view of the fact the mercury has been soaring in recent days).

See 'ya there!

Info: http://www.latimes.com/festivalofbooks

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Perez Hilton...Chris Angel's sleight of mouth urges apology from Cirque du Soleil!

Life is full of tawdry surprises!

A few scant weeks ago, I penned a post on a Magic Show in Vegas hosted by Chris Angel, in a bold-faced effort to cast a big spotlight on the unique extravaganza.

In retrospect - after an incident over the weekend - it appears that the talented maestro is not content to engage in a bit of sleight of hand.

For example, when the little hottie (known to squire a starlet or two on his arm around "sin" city) spied acid-tongued gossip-monger Perez Hilton beneath the floodlights, he was quick to toss a barb or two Hilton's way.

If Angel felt uncomfortable in Hilton's presence, then he should have pulled a disappearing act, instead.

After all, one should never look a gift horse in the mouth!

It is the ultimate sin for a performer to mistreat a paying customer.

Well, unless you're Don Rickles.

At least the former rat-packer - capable of drinking Sinatra and Martin under the table - does it with style.

Indeed, to be on the end of one of his tirades from the stage, is a compliment if you're a guest in the audience.

As to Angel - well - the thought of the trim handsome showman stepping "out of character" on stage to lower himself to a level he allegedly stooped to over the weekend in Vegas makes a body want to saw itself in half.

Chris, how could you be so tacky?

Needless to say, the Cirque du Soleil publicity staff were forced to utter up an apology for the tasteless outburst that undoubtedly shed a bad light on Angel, Cirque du Soleil, and the house in general, too.

Next time, conjure up a modicum of good manners, Mr. Magic.

Perez Vegas bound!

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Oprah Winfrey...twitters! There goes the neighborhood! Some cry foul...

Geek meets twit!

Your head must have been in a toilet or something for the past twenty-four hours if you didn't hear the news about Oprah Winfrey and "twitter".

Yes, Ms. Smarty (overstuffed) pants has ventured into the 21st Century by signing up!

Understandably, Oprah needed someone to hold her hand.

The idea of it was so revolutionary, and frightful, after all!

On her daytime talk fest Friday, the founder of "Twitter" was at the side of goody-two-shoes, as she browsed around the Twitter site all agog at the potential of it all.

One light bulb definitely went off inside her head.

'A great way to keep track of Steadman' (or any other eligible beau waiting in the wings in Tweetville) must have been one mental note she made to herself.

Twitter just might be what the fad doctor ordered to keep the feisty gabber from falling of the diet wagon, too.

All Oprah has to do is "tweet" one her new pals about a deep-fried oreo she's about to wolf down - when, I expect - a host of die-hard fans will step in and pull-the-plug on that naughty bit of self-indulgence from the get-go.

And, what about those new "best buds", anyway?

According to a news item in the morning paper, Oprah sauntered into the twitter arena with 70,000 "followers" right off-the-bat.

L. Ron Hubbard must be turning over in his grave somewhere in Science Fiction heaven!

Meanwhile, the morning air waves were awash with cries of "foul".

"How the heck did she do that?" one envious bimbo babe was inclined to ask increduously of her fellow squawkers on air.

"She got 'em to give her all those tweeters," one sly disc jockey accused off-the-cuff.

Aghast, a female gossip-monger on the popular morning show lamented:

"Is that legal?"

"Sure," a jock quick on-the-uptake quipped cynically.

"Twitter's chief twit probably offered Oprah a twaddle of tweeters as an incentive if she'd sign up for the popular social hub during a live broadcast on her afternoon talk show."

Ashton Kutcher must feel old money bags breathing down heavy on his pretty lily-white a**.

Nothwitstanding, some fear that twitter has tweaked!

When mainstream folks like Oprah jump on board, the once-hip ship is sure to sink, savvy trend-pundits theorize.

"Twittering is not tweet any more, dudes!"

Even face-book is suffering a backlash.

Some whine that all this kissy-kissy "be my friend" stuff has gotten so candy-ass that it doesn't pass the smell taste anymore.

Yup, I'm going to start up a "book" rife with a gang of "enemy" Internet snots, I'll be able to take a "poke" at whenever I'm in the mood for a nasty bit** fight.

Here's mud in your eye!

Ashton Kutcher & the Tweeters on tour!

http://www.julianayrs.com

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Tribeca Film Festival...kicks off April 22nd in NYC! Woody Allen premieres...

Wednesday (April 22nd) amid a lot of fanfare, the Tribeca Film Festival kicks off with the glitzy world premiere of Woody Allen's "Whatever Works".



The highly-anticipated comedy is the first film the quirky film director has shot in Manhattan since 2004.



"Whatever Works" was written & directed by Allen and stars character actor Larry David (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Evan Rachel Wood (The Wrestler), Patricia Clarkson (Vicky Cristina Barcelona), and Ed Begley Jr.(Pineapple Express).



Recently, festival co-founder Jane Rosenthal gushed about how excited she was to launch Allen's new pic at Tribeca.



"I fell in love with New York through Woody Allen’s movies and I am excited we are opening this year’s Festival with Whatever Works."



According to Rosenthal, the stand-out feature is a uniquely funny addition to the celebrated director's body of work.



Allen, the die-hard New Yorker, enthused that it was a lovely idea to show his film in al festival in his own hometown.



"Very exciting," he beamed.



Sony Pictures classics is planning a June 19th release date if you miss the opening.



Tribeca promises to be the entertaining, thought-provoking fest, it has proven to be over the past few years since it first started up.



The roster of projects is far-reaching, too, and includes:

Art Themed Films

Asian Themed Films

ESPN/Tribeca Sports Film Festival Films

Hispanic/Latino Themed Films

Middle Eastern Themed Films

Jewish Themed Films

Music Themed Films

Politically Themed Films

Women Themed Films

Tribeca will close out the festival with "My Life in Ruins" which was directed by Donald Petrie and written by Mike Reiss.



The Fox Searchlight release stars Nia Vardalos, Richard Dreyfuss, María Ádanez, Sheila Bernette, María Botto, Rachel Dratch, Alexis Georgoulis, Ralph Nossek, Bernice Stegers, and Harland Williams.



Nia Vardalos, the writer and star of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding", has turned out a hilarious uplifting comedy about her character's lost kefi (Greek for "mojo"), according to Festival organizers.



Discouraged by her lack of direction in life, she works as a travel guide, leading a rag-tag group of tourists as she tries to show them the beauty of her native Greece while waiting to land her dream job.



Opening their eyes to an exotic foreign land, she too begins to see things in new ways - finding her kefi - and possibly love in the process.



Several of the cast members will attend the special screening to be held at the BMCC TPAC in lower Manhattan on Saturday May 2nd.



The new release is slated for unveiling in Theatres nationwide on June 5, 2009.



Another festival treat will be the screening of an actual work-in-progress which focuses on the high-profile Pop Singer Bon Jovi.



Directed by filmmaker and photographer Phil Griffin and produced by Academy-Award and Emmy-winning producers @radical.media, the documentary was filmed on the road backstage with the band during their 2008 Lost Highway World Tour.



The behind-the-scenes doc also features an up-close and personal glimpse at two sold-out frenzied concerts at Madison Square Gardens which wowed fans at the end of the celebrated tour.



"Throughout the process of working with Bon Jovi, I was amazed at the candor and humility Jon and his band showed me,” said director Phil Griffin.



"The result is not a neatly wrapped up bundle of staged interviews and musical interludes, but rather a series of open and sometimes difficult conversations, explored against a backdrop of music spanning 25 years. It is a film about the peace of Tico, the complexity of Richie, the drive of Jon and the brutal honesty of Dave. It is their willingness to share their stories that gives us what I hope is a very human story - that humanity is what I believe has seen this band stand the test of time."



Festival organizers are wildly enthusiastic about the upcoming screening, too.



"This compelling documentary gives you a glimpse behind the scenes of one of the great rock bands and unveils how they have stayed on top for the past 25 years. Jon has been a stalwart supporter and remarkable friend to our Festival, making it incredibly exciting to premiere the Bon Jovi story at Tribeca," according to a press release.



In addition to movie debuts (and red carpet extravaganzas) there will be a number of panel discussions, including conversations with Spike Lee, Barry Levinson, Steven Soderbergh, Kirby Dick, and Alex Gibney.



Tribeca will also present a much-anticipated line-up of short films.



This year’s Festival shorts are a culmination of works from across the globe, including Cuba, Brazil, Norway, Italy, South Korea and Australia.



The Festival received 2463 short film submissions this year - of which - 46 were selected to be presented in six thematic programs.



The voices behind these works range from first-time to veteran filmmakers that include animators, graphic artists and actors taking the helm behind the camera. Collectively, through captivating narratives and gripping documentaries, they tell stories about life’s lessons drawn from dreams, desires and the coming-of-age experience.



"The films in this year’s program represent a strong showcase in the craft of short filmmaking. It's exciting that as digital content platforms continue to emerge, short films are accessible to, and being watched by an increasingly larger audience.” said Maggie Kim, Tribeca Film Festival shorts programmer.



Among the highlights is a short narrative written and directed by Tom Everett Scott, as well as a documentary narrated by Richard Gere.

Directors making return visits to the Festival include Jason DaSilva, Brian Durnin, PaulaGaitan, Ken Jacobs, and Mark Street.



Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal and Craig Hatkoff founded the Tribeca Film Festival in 2001 following the attacks on the World Trade Center to spur the economic and cultural revitalization of lower Manhattan through an annual celebration of film, music and culture.



The Festival’s mission is to assist filmmakers reach the broadest possible audience, while enabling the international film community and the general public, the opportunity to experience the power of cinema (and promote New York City as a major filmmaking center).



The popular annual festival works under the auspices of Tribeca Enterprises, a diversified multi-platform media company, located in downtown New York City.



The company currently operates a network of branded entertainment businesses including the Tribeca Film Festival and Tribeca Cinemas.



The Company's mission is to provide artists with unique platforms to expand the audience for their works and to broaden the access point for consumers to experience independent film and media.



Since its founding, the Festival has attracted over two million attendees from the US and abroad and has generated more than $425 million in economic activity for New York City.

Info: http://www.tribecafilmfestival.org

Info: 1-212-941-2400

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Screen Actors Guild...tenative contracts agreed to!

The National Board of Directors voted on April 19th (2009) to approve a tentative TV/Theatrical deal with the producers and recommend it for ratification to the members.

After a months-long battle over contract issues - played out in nasty detail in the press - the National Board of Directors voted 53.38 percent to 46.62 percent to approve and recommend to SAG members new two-year successor agreements.

The proposed agreement covering actors in the jurisdiction of motion pictures and television, delivers a 3.5% effective annual increase comprised of a 3% wage increase and a .5% pension and health contribution increase upon ratification ( and a 3.5% wage increase in year two).

After all the terms were discussed extensively in a closed-door meeting, it was moved and seconded that the National Board direct the interim National Executive Director to send the tentative agreement between the Producers (represented by the AMPTP) and the Screen Actors Guild to the membership for ratification with a recommendation from the Board to vote ‘Yes.’

On the heels of the vote count, SAG National President Alan Rosenberg urged members to carefully review both the pros and cons in the referendum materials and exercise their right to vote."

“We are pleased that Screen Actors Guild members will soon be voting on a deal for television and motion pictures. We’re eager to get our members back to work and to focus now on the challenges ahead, particularly on initiating a comprehensive effort to thoughtfully plan for the future," added interim National Executive Director David White.

White proceeded to note that the negotiating committee, task force and professional staff worked tirelessly on the agreement over the past twelve months with a positive end result.

On behalf of the National Board, he thank the dedicated teams for contributing their time, commitment and expertise to the cause.

According to Chief Negotiator John McGuire, the tentative agreement delivers increased contributions to the SAG pension plan, increased minimums, a significant gain in background actor numbers from 50 to 55 over the term of the contract, and tracks new media provisions achieved by other entertainment industry unions.

"The terms of the agreement puts SAG in sync with the other unions, but does not include the extended term recently proposed by the AMPTP," he noted for the record.

Provisions of the proposed deal include:

* A two-year term of agreement concluding June 30, 2011.
* Effective annual increases of 3.0% in wage increases.
* A .5% increase in pension contributions upon ratification.
* A 3.5% wage increase one year following ratification.
* Greater residuals for TV & Theatrical features than those paid for DVD.
* Residuals for ad-supported streams of feature films & TV programs.
* Residuals for derivative new media programs.
* Additional background actors in features.
* Increased compensation for guest stars from 7.5% to 10%.
* Increased trailer money break ( $2,500 to $3,000 per week).
* Increased overtime money for 3-day performers ($2,700 to $3,000).

Staff at SAG have reported that the ratification ballots will be mailed to eligible Guild members in early May with an expected return date (votes cast) at the end of the month.

Tabulation will occur immediately upon the conclusion of balloting.

The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) is the nation’s largest labor union representing working actors in the country today.

Established in 1933, SAG has a rich history in the American labor movement, especially with regard to fighting for artists’ rights amid the current digital revolution which has swept the entertainment industry over the past couple of decades.

With 20 branches nationwide, SAG represents nearly 120,000 actors who work in motion pictures, television, industrial films, commercials, video games, music videos and all new media formats.

The Guild's main thrust is to enhance actors’ working conditions and pursue realistic compensation for services rendered.

Although opposing factions threatened to split the Actor's Union asunder in recent days over the contentious contract issues aforementioned, SAG continues to endeavour to be a unified voice on behalf of artists’ rights.

SAG is an affiliate of the AFL-CIO which is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.

Info: www.sag.org

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Coachella Music Festival..."tweet" quote of the day!

One of the morning disc jockeys was wickedly scrolling back tweet messages received over the weekend from one of his pals (slightly inebriated?) who partied-hearty at the popular sold-out Coachella Music Festival down in Indio.

Kudos to the one about the front man for the Killers which was so tweet!

"Brandon Flowers was carrying his own clothes in the parking lot."

Gosh, the kid gushed all star-struck, he's just like the rest of us.

Not quite!

Flowers must have been really out-of-his gourde - or sloshed at least - since most of the revellers wore their spiffy duds to the wild and woolly shindig under the big top!

Ba-dump.

Gotcha!

http://www.julianayrs.com

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Moscow Chill...DVD release of espionage thriller starring Norman Reedus in video outlets on April 21st!

"Moscow Chill" is one of those 1 million dollar budget films that caught me by surprise when I screened it at a packed house at the Fine Arts Theatre in Beverly Hills last year.

As I noted at the time in my review, Hollywood "suits" should sit up and take notice - after all - Director Chris Solimine performed miracles with the pittance he had at his disposal.

The cinematography is superb, the production values are rich, the script is well-written, and the motley cast (who trekked off to Russian for the stunning location shots) act superbly in this entertaining espionage feature which hits the right spot.

For a sneak peak at my movie review:

Post: 02/28/08

http://fraudphishing-financialmisdees.blogspot.com/2008/02/moscow-chillentertaining-low-budget.html

The word from Solimine's straight-shooting hip is that "Moscow Chill" is being released on DVD on April 21st (2009).

Snap up a copy (it may become a collector's item) if only to give a boost to a dynamite Independent Film crew who froze their bu**s off overseas to turn out this multi-faceted gem.

In the alternative, ferret out a copy to screen privately in your private boudoir, so you can fantasize in-between the sheets over sexy lead actor Norman Reedus (Boondog Saints).

You heard it here first, folks, Reedus is the next heart-throb on the horizon to soar to new career heights in Tinsel Town!

http://www.julianayrs.com

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Los Angeles Times Festival of Books...is a family afffair with Snobbles, Disney Booth & Clifford the Big Red Dog! Brooke Shields to attend...

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books is not just a forum for old bookworms to nose their way through racks of stale old tomes in search of a good read!

In fact, there are a handful of stimulating wholesome events scheduled for next weekend for parents and kids alike, which are just right for a family outing on the weekend.

For example, authors Erika Gragg and Jason Dobkin will be on hand to sign their latest book (and publicity stills) from the latest "Snobbles" desert expedition to the Snooze patch!

In this lighthearted tale, Snobbles (a snake) and Scoot (a scorpion) set off on an new exciting adventure to save their friends from an evil mongoose

The book is beautifully illustrated (see for yourself!) and the tale itself is a real tongue-twister sure to captivate children of all ages.

Info: http://www.snobbles.com

Meanwhile, at Booth # 035, there will be special appearances by "Clifford" the Big Red Dog.

If you saunter by next week during the book fest, you'll be able to snap up a free Clifford book!



Also, families can win passes to an advance screening of Disney's new feature "UP" which opens in Theatres on Earth Day, April 22nd (2009).

Info: http://www.Disney.com/Up

But hold on to your horses, kids!

If you want to experience the "Battle for Terra", stop by Booth # 704, for a chance to enter a drawing to win an invite to a screening of the much-anticipated adventure in real D 3D.

Of course, the Target Children's Stage is back again this year with top performers, more yucks than you bargained for, and a host of educational activities and animated readings by a handful of the Nation's most popular authors (in the Family Zone!).

Celebrity writers slated to read and sign books include actor "Fonz" Henry Winkler, Brooke Shields, Sabrina Bryan of "Cheetah Girls", and Yeardley Smith, the voice of "Lisa Simpson" on "The Simpsons."

The "SqueeGees" will also perform songs, jokes, and interact with audiences in a show that focuses on the environment.

And, last but not least, kids visiting the Los Angeles Times Kids' Reading Room (situated near the Reading by 9 booth) will learn how to create a newspaper from scratch!

The Staff will discuss newsroom technology - at which point - all future journalists in the crowd, will have the opportunity to not only write articles and poems, but create eye-catching illustrations to spruce up their editorials and make 'em more personal.

See 'ya there!

Info: http://www.latimes.com/festivalofbooks

http://www.julianayrs.com

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Wabanaki Red...memorable days of my youth!

I dipped the paddle into the cool water and gave it a gentle shove.

In moments, I was gliding across the still surface of the river and into the storied past.

Ah, the lazy days of summer!

The door of the old yellow school bus stood ajar as a rambunctious pack of obnoxious kids excitedly hopped up the steps into the dilapidated interior and took a seat one by one.

For the next four or five monotonous hours on the road, we'd wile away the time (as it seemingly stood still) by singing several rounds of boisterous camp-fire songs.

"Ninety-nine bottles of beer in the wall, ninety-nine bottles of beer. If one of those bottles should happen to fall, there would be ninety-eight bottles of beer in the wall."

The trek through the back roads of Ontario was long and hot and Northward bound.

At long last when the bus pulled into Honey Harbour just after twilight, I was snuggled up in an uncomfortable heap in one corner of a worn seat fast asleep.

I half-recall a counselor lifting me up and carrying me outside to a waiting cruiser which purred at a dock that creaked underfoot.

The sounds of the gentle waves lapping at the edge of the boat were soothing - and at the same time somewhat hypnotic - as the small speed boat ferried each and every one of us over to Beausoleil Island.

For a fortnight, my new-found pals and I would be exploring (and braving) the wilds of Ontario with youthful curiosity and tireless vigor.

In addition, there would be a lot of sun-kissed hiking, swimming and canoeing.

After all, idle hands were the Devil's workshop, weren't they?

Indeed, on occasion, we'd be fending for ourselves on a sort-of rite of passage that took place like clockwork in August every year.

On occasion, when the golden sun broke over the rocky terrain in the morning, I would peer out into the great beyond.

Suddenly, the aroma of hot porridge would assail my nostrils.

My stomach would growl hungrily in response.

Camp Wabanaki was unlike any other summer camp I ever attended and more picturesque than most.

Here, a series of small cottages (dorms, if you will) were strategically placed atop perches that jutted out over rock-cliff faces that fell treacherously for a brief stint, then plunged into a fresh-water basin below .

The routine started quickly enough.

In preparation for a week-long canoe trip through the Crown lands, there would be a bit of prepping in the form of swimming lessons, first aid, wilderness survival, and even instructions on how to tie a myriad of fancy sailor's knots.

One year, our journey took us through the locks at Bracebridge and along the Seguin river.

A creek chosen for a short-cut to paddle through on one leg of the arduous journey, turned out to be all dried up - so, on that occasion - we were forced to lift our canoes over the rocks for a short period 'til there was sufficient water in the riverbank to set them alight on the surface once again on the other side.

Now and then, it was necessary to portage around dangerous gulches or fast-moving rapids, through the forest at the outer edge.

During one such adventure, as my hands were held high supporting the canoe firmly, menacing mosquitoes swarmed all over my naked back and thirstily sucked the blood right out of my tender virgin skin.

Needless to say - during this unexpected encounter - all the boys were inclined to step lively through the underbrush to the other side - where the sight of fresh-water swelling the banks was a welcome sight.

As to the canoe lifting, well, it's part of the folklore in those parts.

Whenever a lazy canoeist dragged his vessel over the rocks - instead of lifting it high and out of harm's way - fragments of paint were inclined to scar the rocks signaling which campers came through that way.

If a hiker spied "red" on the rocks, tradition demanded that he cry out:

"Wabanaki Red"

After all, Camp Wabanki's canoes were a bright fire-engine red!

Each vacation, it became apparent who the slackers were by simply observing the waterways and byways in the great out-of-doors, for tell-tale signs.

Conquering the forces of Nature oftentimes turned out to be a feather in one's cap, too.

One year, we were offshore quite-a-ways in Georgian Bay, paddling away, when a wild storm swept in from out-of-the-blue.

Powerful waves set into motion by a series of high winds were so severe, in fact, that they threatened to overturn our lightweight canoes.

So, our counselor - a seasoned pro on the campfire trails - instructed us to strap all three canoes astride each other.

Then, we stretched our rain gear over our paddles and proceeded to harness the wind - at which point - we triumphantly sailed into shore just beyond a lone cottage (owned by T. Eaton of the Department Store Chain) at the tip of the private Island.

Notwithstanding these adventures on the topsy-turvy seas, there were also a multitude of other leisure activities designed to challenge us and play havoc with our wits.

At night, we often played capture the flag in the inky-black night beneath a breathtaking canopy of twinkling night stars.

There were sailboat excursions, relay races, you name it.

To this day, when I recall all the fond memories of Camp Wabanaki, a smile comes across my face.

I have only to catch a whiff of porridge one frosty winter morn to find myself whisked back in time to recall some of the most cherished (and happiest) days of my entire youth.

http://www.julianayrs.com

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Coachella Music Festival...Paul McCartney ushers in glittering star-studded opening night!

The Coachella Music Festival has rolled around once again.

Seems like just yesterday, I was musing about Prince's much-anticipated appearance on the Southern California stage last year.

The old blended with the new, a host of celebrities added glitz to the country atmosphere, and die-hard music fans lapped it all up.

In fact, some went overboard, I expect.

The police reported 18 drug-and-alcohol related arrests prior to the penning of this post.

Ecstatic fans welcomed former Beatle Paul McCartney, nonetheless, who sparked up his concert gig (his 1st appearance as a solo artist at a U.S. Music Fest) with a handful of olden-goldie mop-top tunes from yesteryear.

Renditions of "Eleanor Rigby", " The Long and Winding Road" and "My Love Does It Good" revved up the crowd right off-the-bat.

"Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" ended the rousing set which triggered memories of trippy-hippy days for many who crawled out of the woodwork from communes around the country to catch the much-ballyhooed musical extravaganza in Indio, California.

McCartney didn't let creeping "old age" bog him down, either.

The long-in-the-tooth musical great held his own for the two 1/2 hour set - all-the-while - sporting a youthful image in trendy boots, black pants (with spiffy suspenders attached), and classy white dress shirt.

The first day of the festival also featured Leonard Cohen (a fellow Canuck), the Hold Steady, Franz Ferdinand, Morrisey, and the popular Ting Tings.

The high-profile line up drew a number of young Hollywood stars to the desert to party-hearty under a wide blue sky, too.

Anne Hathaway chatting up fans in patterned harem pants and a cardigan; in contrast, "Twilight" actor Robert Pattinson was inclined to go casual in body-fitting cut-off jeans.

Kirsten Dunst basked in the glow in a short-sleeve mini-dress backstage in the VIP section, along with other fringe celebs like "Weird Al" Yankovic, Chloe Sevigny, Kate Bosworth and Zoe Kravitz.

One of my favorite bands, The Killers, is lined up for a Saturday performance!

Despite tough economic times, Coachella has not experienced any fall-out or even faced the need to cut-back on the festivities!

Tickets have sold stridently and attendance is at an all-time high.

If music be the food of the soul, then there appears to be a lot of spiritual nourishment going down at Coachella this week-end.

In addition to a lot of good old-fashioned high-spirited fun!

http://www.julianayrs.com

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AFI Dallas - Henry Selick Interview

Movie Geek Feed captures my interview with Henry Selick, an animator, who was honored with the Texas Avery Award at AFI Dallas.

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Kimbell Art Museum...Art & Love in Renaissance Italy! Captivating exhibit in Fort Forth...

An excellent exhibition - "Art & Love in Renaissance Italy" - is currently on exhibit March 15 through June 14 at the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth (Texas).

The exhibition offers a unique look at approximately 150 paintings and art objects dating from the 1400 to 1600 circa that were created to celebrate love and marriage.

The extensive collection includes marriage portraits and paintings, exquisite examples of jewelry, and some of the rarest and most significant pieces of Renaissance glassware, cassone panels, birth trays, and drawings of amorous subjects.

The exhibition is divided into three sections.

The first - "Celebrating Betrothal, Marriage, and Childbirth" - features wedding scenarios.

For wealthy families in cities such as Florence, Venice, and Milan, the ideal marriage depended on a sizable dowry provided by the bride’s family.

The dowry was not simply comprised of money and property, but also a variety of goods for the bride’s new home.

The lavish wedding celebrations of the period were marked by extravagant gifts such as maiolica decorated with narratives or portraits, rare Venetian glassware, rings and other exquisite jewelry, and delicate gilded boxes and vividly painted cassoni or bridal chests which would be filled with costly linens and clothing.

The safe birth of a strong healthy child was also celebrated and commemorated with the production of finely painted deschi da parto (wooden childbirth trays) and maiolica childbirth bowls known as scodelle da parto.

The trays and bowls were often painted with poignant images of a mother resting in her confinement room with charming representations of Renaissance interiors.

Often marked with heraldic devices, these objects were prized possessions handed down from generation to generation.

The second aspect of the exhibition - "Profane Love" - focuses on the erotic (at times salacious imagery, according to the curators) and how the subject was broached in drawings, prints, and other objects created by some of the most celebrated artists of the time (including Parmigianino and Giulio Romano).

"From Cassone to Poesia: Paintings of Love and Marriage" shifts the artistic sensibilities to nuptial portraits and paintings on themes of love that decorated bedchambers and private quarters.

The exhibition is accompanied by a fully illustrated catalog published by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in association with Yale University Press.

History of the Kimbell Art Museum

The Kimbell Art Museum is widely regarded as one of the most outstanding architectural achievements of the modern era.

The stunning eye-catching building was designed by talented American architect, Louis I. Kahn (1901–1974).

Since the Kimbell threw its doors open wide in 1971, the Museum has won wide acclaim for its classic modern flourishes.

Kahn’s innovative use of natural light and subtle articulation of space and materials greatly enhance the experience for the art-lover and connoisseur alike.

The architect envisioned a museum with “the luminosity of silver.”

In his design, “narrow slits to the sky” (as he described the skylights) admit natural light by virtue of perforated metal reflectors which disperse it onto the underside of cycloid-shaped vaults and down the walls.

Courtyards, lunettes, and light slots vary the quality and intensity of the light throughout.

The building’s gracious proportions, fine craftsmanship, and beautiful landscaping contribute further to an air of serenity and restraint that permeates the space.

Permanent Collection

The Museum’s holdings range from the period of antiquity to the 20th century and includes European masterpieces by Fra Angelico, Caravaggio, Cézanne and Matisse.

Visitors will also be delighted to discover rare important collections from the Egypt, the Roman antiquities, as well as Asian, Mesoamerican, and African arts on display.

Programs

The museum offers a fulls schedule of programs to promote appreciation of the collection and special exhibitions.

For instance, well-thought-out symposiums feature outside guest speakers from specialized areas of expertise.

Meanwhile, there are also regular lectures and gallery talks conducted by professional staff at the Museum, regional artists, and guest scholars.

In addition, the Kimbell hosts a book-discussion club, summer camps for children, family festivals, and family gallery guides.

Workshops on art - specially designed to share the resources of the Museum with all levels of the community - are also held for children, high school students, for the deaf and hard-of-hearing, and adults of all ages.

The Museum staff take the position that an increased understanding of craftsmen and the creative process is the key to an expanded enjoyment of art itself.

Info: 817-332-8451.

http://www.julianayrs.com

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Natural Bridge Caverns...explorers attraction in Texas!

With the economy the way it has been, many families are taking day-trips or weekend jaunts outside of their normal stomping grounds for a short respite from it all.



If you're heading to Texas - specifically the Dallas/Forth Worth & Austin regions - there is an awesome adventure waiting for the kids (Mom & Dad, too!) at the Natural Bridge Caverns.



The caverns are a vast and magical underworld phenomenon that Mother Nature etched beneath the surface of the earth that is both breathtaking and majestic.



Gigantic stalactites and fragile crystalline soda straws make for a captivating sight-seeing adventure that no true explorer will ever forget.



History



In March of 1960, Orion Knox Jr., Preston Knodell, Al Brandt and Joe Cantu (four students from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio) obtained permission to explore the area that is now Natural Bridge Caverns.



The students were convinced that large underground passages existed under the amazing 60-foot limestone bridge.



On their fourth expedition, Orion felt a cool draft from a rubble-filled crawl-way.



Air currents often indicate the presence of additional rooms or passages, so they continued on with their in-depth trek into the caves.



The explorers climbed and crawled through two miles of vast cavern passages and mapped the extent of their findings.



After making this amazing discovery, they returned to the surface to tell the landowners.



The discoverers knew immediately what an astonishing find they had made and the land owners decided to develop the first 1/2 mile (the most spectacular part of the caverns) for the enjoyment of tourists from around the world.



That first 1/2 mile is now the Discovery Tour.



The Discovery Tour was developed with two main goals in mind: to preserve the cavern environment and to ensure comfort and safety for the cavern enthusiasts.



The result is one of the world’s premiere show caverns.



Just in time for Spring Break this year, Natural Bridge Caverns launched a new tour of the Hidden Passages that includes a chance to view an extraordinary section previously hidden from the general public.



The Illuminations Tour is designed around a dramatic new lighting system that uses both light and dark to enhance the experience.



The tour features two vast underground chambers known as the Jaremy Room and the Cathedral Room.



While the Jaremy Room has been viewed by guests over the past four years, the Cathedral Room is a treasure previously seen only on the Adventure Tour.



Both rooms possess unique formations not found on the Discovery Tour.



Tours are kept small and leave every 40 minutes throughout the day.



The tour is moderately strenuous and includes 185 steps along a 1/3-mile path.



The Natural Caverns most popular tour is the North Cavern Tour which introduces guests to an underground world of natural beauty.



Die-hard climbers are treated to a half-mile of the largest and most spectacular show caverns in Texas which fall down to a depth of 180 feet below the surface.



From this vantage-point, curiosity-seekers are able to view ancient awe-inspiring formations centuries in the making (and still growing today) such as stalagmites, stalactites, flowstones, chandeliers and soda straws.



Info: (210) 651-6101



Hidden Passages Tour



This tour will force excited explorers to get down and dirty.



This foray into the cavern habitat is a 3-to-4 hour excursion into one of the world’s premiere nature sights.



In view of the terrain underground encountered - adventurous thrill-seekers will be forced to climb, crawl, rappel, explore – with only the light of a helmet to guide them.



Not a day-trip for the weak of heart.



Once outfitted with caving gear, bolder climbing enthusiasts will be lowered by rope through a 160-foot well shaft 230 feet below surface level to the Fault Room which features one of the longest soda straw formations in North America (14 feet in length).



Discovery Adventure Tour



This incredible three-hour tour allows ticket-holders to follow the path that the original discoverers took.



This tour includes a half-mile trek through wild caves and passages that have not changed since the discovery of the caverns.



The total distance of the tour is 1.25 miles which begins under the Natural Bridge and follows the commercially developed path with hand rails and concrete trails.



Then, the tour turns more adventurous as the most physically challenging leg of the journey commences along a treacherous path of underground terrain.



Guests are provided with caving gear and are required to crawl, climb and slide over and through various obstacles.



It’s an exhilerating experience, according to hikers who have gone the distance.



Watchtower Challenge Tour



Here, guests may try their hand at outdoor climbing towers and zip lines which are the best in Texas.



Named in honor of the Watchtower formation in the North Cavern, this attraction stands 50 feet tall.



The climbing surfaces are built along two sides of the tower so that four climbers may participate at the same time.



The front of the tower is 16 feet wide and provides moderate-to-hard levels of intensity.



The side of the climbing tower is 12 feet wide and is easier for first-time climbers.



Whether a beginner or a seasoned pro, there will be a very satisfying climbing experience ahead.

By the way, the view from the top - if you make it - is spectacular!



Tired of climbing?



Then, take the quick route down on one of the zip cords which carry the agile individual back to earth at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour.



This is a thrill ride no one will ever forget.



Natural Bridge Cavern Explorer tips



*Parking is free.

*The Visitor center is located by the lower level parking area.

*Temperature inside cavern is 70 Degrees (humidity of 99%).

*Wear light clothing & comfortable walking shoes with traction.

*Cameras are welcome. Flash & high speed film recommended.

*The Discovery Tour is guided. (Distance 3/4 mile).

*The Illuminations Tour is guided . (Distance 1/3 mile).

*The Watchtower Challenge tower (based on weather).

*Souvenirs & food & drinks available in the Visitors’ Center.



The Natural Bridge Caverns have been listed in the National Register of Historical Places (NHRP) by the U.S. Department of Interior.

This designation is bestowed upon sites that play an important role in preserving cultural history.



In 1964, development-related excavations took place at Natural Bridge Caverns to enlarge the entrance, provide a walkway, and develop a trail system inside the cavern.



During the original trenching of the entrance, several diagnostic projectile points dating back approximately 10,000 years were salvaged.



Additionally, several other stone tools were recovered during this phase of development, including hide scrapers, gouges, knives, and drill fragments.



Staff from the Texas Memorial Museum and the Vertebrate Paleontology Laboratory of the University of Texas visited the site and collected a sample of faunal remains uncovered by the construction.



Some specimens belonged to species that became extinct about 12,000 years ago.



In June of 2003, the staff from the Center of Archaeological Research (CAR) of the University of Texas at San Antonio also conducted a dig at the entrance of the caverns.



Artifacts uncovered included a prehistoric looking hearth, stone tools, projectile points, and charred plant remains. People from long ago used these artifacts to hunt, cook, and make tools.



Visitors to the caverns walk through different layers of limestone which is a sedimentary rock.



Geologists theorize that during the Cretaceous period, a warm shallow sea covered much of Texas.



Sediments and dead marine organisms collected on the ocean floor, compacted, and formed the different limestone layers.



Geologists gave different names to the various layers such as the Glen rose and the Kainer (Edwards) layers.



The Glen Rose, the oldest rock layer, contains the lowermost chambers, while the Kainer forms the Natural Bridge.



The cavern formed by virute of an underground "river" which moved slowly through cracks and pores within the limestone.



Rain Water that seeped through cracks then started to dissolve the limestone.



In time, the original narrow cracks or joints enlarged to form huge underground conduits or passages.



Perhaps due to changes in climate, vegetation, or other natural forces, the water drained to lower levels within the earth.



As the water left the upper passages, it moved deeper and formed a second level.

The water eventually moved to another level even deeper within the earth.



As the water left the lower level, stresses within the rock led to many of the layers collapsing to form break-out domes.



This final stage of collapse led to the creation of the passages visitors now see.

http://www.julianayrs.com

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