Greek Kid Speaks Out!

Now That's Art!

2011-11-27T22:36:00.000-05:00

"The Artist" is a new film shot in black & white with an aspect ratio of 4:3 and although for the most part it is a silent film, there is some sound used for dramatic effect, not to mention the soundtrack of music; films made before the advent of sound had live piano players adding dramatic notes...
This film is an homage to the Hollywood of yesteryear in every aspect. It is a "movie goers movie" in the way "Cinema Paradiso" was. It is not to be missed by anyone longing for The Golden Age... I recommend taking the kids and teaching them that you don't need computer effects to be moved.

Is This Bud For Me?

2011-05-16T22:03:00.000-04:00

This Budweiser AD campaign on the NYC subways caught my eye & made me think "are they trying to capture a gay audience?" Take a look at the photo I snapped on the train yesterday... only the ball players midsections are captured in the AD (there are actually 3 players in the poster with one of them turned around for a full butt shot) with the tag line "GRAB some BUDS".... Where am I supposed grab my buddy?? I'm just asking....

Last week New York Ranger Sean Avery offered his support to same sex marriage... then Phoenix Suns president and CEO Rick Welts pushed open his closet door & told the world he's gay. The next day Kobe Bryant called a referee a faggot during a game and was fined $100,000.00...

All these recent changes made me think about a conversation I had while I was cutting the hair of one of my clients, a New York Giant who said "none of the guys I play with are gay" when I looked at him in the mirror without responding, he said "well I'm sure there are gay players in football and perhaps even on my team but I don't know who they are".... Maybe now he'll find out.

In case you're wondering which Giant I'm talking about? I keep that information private!

BTW, I still hare sports!!!

Kathleen Turner "Now & Then"

2011-04-13T11:16:00.000-04:00

The change in Ms. Turners looks can be quite startling, but not as much as her acting! Last evening I had the good fortune to see Ms. Turner star in a new Broadway drama, "HIGH"

This play written by Matthew Lombardo is a thought provoking, emotional dance between a nun, a priest & an addict. Kathleen Turner as a nun, really?? Yes, REALLY! Her performance knocked me out! The first time seeing her on the stage was a revelation; like seeing her act for the first time even though I had enjoyed her work before. Her physicality on the stage is also amazing when you consider her long suffering from rheumatoid arthritis which is the reason for the drastic changes in her looks. I'm still too wowed by her to find words to share with you! If you ever have a chance to see Kathleen Turner on the stage, in anything- TAKE IT!!!

Viva La France!!!

2011-04-11T10:04:00.000-04:00

France has begun to enforce a ban of full face veil's, known as a niqab. There are about 6 million Muslim's in France, I imagine that this won't go over well. The thing to really do is outlaw all signs of religion worn on the body by anyone of any religion at any time! A level playing field would be established and those of us who don't follow or worship would be freed from being forced to respect their worshiping asses!

RELIGION = HATE

Wedding Hair

2011-04-06T10:18:00.000-04:00

Okay, So Reese Witherspoon married Jim Toth; I could care less really, but what has J.J. so incensed is her hair! I know it may be a frivolous issue to most, but it's always all about the hair for me.
Take a look at this photo: Yes, she is a very attractive woman The dress: pink not that you can tell in this shot is very sweet & tasteful. The flowers: simple. The make-up: perfect. The hair: Too casual! It's a very nice look for the rehearsal dinner or an afternoon of shopping with the girls but on the "SPECIAL DAY" of exchanged vows & snapshots to be looked at "forever", I don't think so- A bride can have a casual hairstyle for the wedding but then the dress, flowers & most of all the vail need to change!
I'm not suggesting a big formal up-do here but perhaps something a little more special or if this is to be the hairstyle, the vail must go! I can only imagine how tacky it looks from the back with a comb attachment just stuck on to the back of her head.
I'd like to remind of how wonderful & complete she can look...

Bright Star

2011-03-23T11:22:00.000-04:00

She Gave All Of Us A Place In The Sun

Elizabeth Taylor

1932-2011

Isolationism Now!

2011-03-22T08:41:00.000-04:00

The People Of Lybia Are Being Mistreated And Killed By Their Leader Of 42 Years, Muammar Gaddafi- After Plotting To Overthrow Him! The Lesson Here Is: You Plot A War, You Get A War. NOT: You Plot A War & The United States Will Step In To Help. "Basic Human Rights Are At Steak, People Are Being Murdered!" Why Are WE Supposed To Give A Shit?? Why Are We The Defenders Of Democracy When We Can't Even Defend Or Provide Basic Rights To Our Own Residents Here At Home??? Our Economy Is Circling The Drain And Yet, Lets Go Spend A Billion On Defending Another People While The Disenfranchised In America Are Ignored Not To Mention The Loss Of More Young American Soldiers!
Who Will Come To Our Defense When Another Countries War Or Our Overspending Devastate Us? No One, That's Who! We Need To Look The Other Way & Let Them Eat Cake!!!

& The Oscar Goes To...

2011-02-27T12:16:00.000-05:00

Gay Super Bowl Sunday is here! As much as this writer dislikes sports, I must admit that I can relate to the excitement of the big game. For as long as I can remember The Oscars were always a big deal, being raised but two movie lovers- it was a family event in my childhood! I always loved all the beautiful men & women walking the red carpet & floating across the lighted stage; it was a night that made me believe dreams could come true. So on this night of 1000 stars, I'll be in front of the tube watching who takes home Oscar with Peter & some of our chosen family. Food, Drinks & Fun! Rumor has it that Dishgirl & TG might swoop down from newly wedded bliss for an appearance!!!...

Sing Girl, Sing!

2011-02-24T19:17:00.000-05:00

The new album "21" just released by ADELE is a "must have" for all!!! This award winning young artist from north London is quite the musical revelation! Her Grammy winning first album "19" put her on the map, but a musical artists second album is always the test of their staying power and talent! An un-measurable amount of time can go into a first release but record companies insist on something new asap and most of the time, the second offering falls short under time constraints, tour dates, award shows and new celebrity. Adele offers up a second album better the the first; it's nearly unheard-of. Her voice is as soulful as Aretha Franklin yet, fresh and new! The musical arrangements will remind the listener of 1960's English rock-a-billy yet, they are fresh and new! The best compliment that J.J. could give this brilliant artist is this: Adele's Music Will Make You Dream Longingly In The Way That Bruce & Joni Did Back In The Day! Know this:"ADELE 21" will be the soundtrack of 2011, add it to your library faster then yesterday!

What Happened To Barbra???

2011-02-15T18:09:00.000-05:00

Ms. Streisand proved at The Grammys what she has always said, to be truthful- "I Don't Train Vocally & I Don't Warm Up"; She sounded like she just got out of bed & looked it too! Her mess of hair was just that. The coco colored dress of rags sewn together to hide the suddenly grand size of her sagging bosom & huge bottom was an unflattering shock but much better to gaze upon then the natural (no color) toned make-up; When did looking like a corpse become the fashion?? J.J. missed the memo...
Her new title should be: The Widow Fishgower. - The one time bride of the fishmonger Fishgower from the lower east side. She's trying all too hard to make us see her as the next incarnation of "Mama Rose" I'd Like A Pound Of Lox, Please...

Fights, Fighter, Fighting

2011-01-31T11:09:00.000-05:00

Wanting to catch up on the nominated films before Oscar night, Peter & I headed out to see "The Fighter"- a supposedly compelling true story, cast with four talented leading actors, what could be bad?? Well, let J.J. tell you...
I know that as audience members we bring our own life experiences to the theater and then relate in our own way to the story's truth. I found "The Fighter" which is really the story of a family, one of the most un-relateable stories ever!
Now I'm not from Boston, nor do I have a drop of Irish blood so maybe I just didn't get it- but really? Micky Ward would never stand up to his mother or his sisters but would smack down a stranger in a bar for disrespecting a barmaid & get in a boxing ring?? I happen to enjoy a good bout in a ring but it's not just a cock fight, it involves great skill, focus & endurance. The proud rooster never wins.
My blood, 100% Greek was bored with this unreal family dynamic! I spent my childhood in a hotblooded Greek home filled with love & plenty of fighting. I was loved, respected, challenged & questioned, so this family portrayal just didn't ring true for me. I can't expect all families to be like mine, but as a boy who fought with his parents and his siblings and loves them without condition I was unable to see a weak, spineless son & brother as a fighter or a man... or even a winner.

Frankly, Who Gives A Damn'???

2011-01-10T10:34:00.000-05:00

   Well it's been some time since I posted, it's not that J.J. has nothing to say, I just started to become tired of this forum as a whole. It's been part of my journey through life to always contemplate my actions. In the "contemplation of one's navel" you can find quite a lot- and not just lint.
Why Blog? Originally I said it was "to find my voice" as if! I've always had a voice and LOUD one at that, so blogging was just a way to pontificate- but why do I enjoy that so?? I really dislike it in others, so why do I get off on doing it? Well, I haven't entirely figured that out yet but the thoughts of it bored me to death so I just stopped.
   I have learned that I love my life and being here. The experiences I have day to day fill me with joy. How others live sort of piss me off, but so what? It has nothing to do with me! I can't tell people how to live or expect people to live MY way- that would be like religion, the thing I despise most!
   I guess what I would most like is for everyone to search through their own lint and only their own! Have you contemplated your navel??

P.S. You can have your HBO, it's the Showtime shows that truly rock! "The Big C", "Califorication", "Nurse Jackie" & now "Shameless"...

DayDreamingAndI'mThinking....

2010-10-03T12:56:00.000-04:00

If This World Were Mine... Beauty would be bountiful & Ugly would be in the eye of the beholder...
Hate would not be possible & Loving would be easily found and without judgement...
Sex & Sexuality would not be compartmentalized or labeled... Art & Artistic Freedom would always be, & never disputed...
Everyone would have a GOD & No one would have a Religion... Every time a woman gave birth the color of the babies skin would be different from hers and different from it's siblings... All Guns & Weapons would be taken away and replaced with Sexual Stimulation Devices... Healthcare would be Healthcare for all & we wouldn't be able to imagine not having it... Depression would not be known in any form...
This Has Been A Wonderful Daydream!!!

Jazz Uptown!

2010-09-06T15:02:00.000-04:00

Jazz Lovers Take Note: Uptown Is Smokin' Again! Now it's not as far uptown as the old "Cotton Club" but the rebirth of uptown music has begun at a little joint called "SMOKE".
This weekend Peter & I went to the Jazz Brunch featuring the vocal styling of Lea DeLaria and we were knocked out for many reasons. Upon entering we were struck by the intimacy of this little gem in our very own neighborhood, a welcoming room with a friendly staff, white tablecloths, great service & fantastic, affordable food! But wait there's more, No Cover!!!!! YES, the music is FREE! Simply unheard of!!!
Now that "free" music is some of the best you'll ever hear at any price anywhere. Miss. DeLaria along with her extremely talented trio bring a new life to some classic tunes from many eras & genres without disappointment. The brilliance of this experience will stay with us forever!
"SMOKE" is located at 2751 Broadway @ 106th. street 212.864.6662. Call for a reservation now!

Easy, Happy...

2010-08-21T11:57:00.000-04:00

That's me, "GreekKid". In my minds picture of myself I wear a smile and walk this planet with great happiness, it's my choice to be happy and it's easy, but I've been finding myself all to often using this blog & my facebook page to rant about the day to day crap that gets under my skin and wipes my smile away. Today will be different. I awoke after a great sleep feeling good and I'm determined to share my good feelings with the world at large.
Religion and bigotry steer me off my spiritual path of believing that we are all good & filled with enough love to share. So take time today to remember that when you turn against someone, you turn on yourself! You are God, I am God, as your neighbors are God! You are the higher power! Pray to yourself not for yourself! Open your heart & mind! Change your perspective! Find the answer within!

"The Kids Are All Right" hmm...

2010-08-02T13:07:00.000-04:00

The film event of my weekend was "The Kids Are All Right". I was mildly entertained by this little summer comedy, thanks to some funny lines and really good performances. It's no secret that I worship Annette Benning so I had a great need to see it.
I feel the point was to show that gay relationships, like straight ones, are complicated; have their ups & downs, change over time and can fuck up their kids. What it didn't show was that most happy and well-adjusted gay couples live in this world, making their own rules because straight society forces them to by not understanding that "difference" should be celebrated, not condemned. Well the kids were all right and the parents were living a straight stereotype of a gay relationship! It was offensive to see this couple as flannel wearing women without make-up, who are in great need of being accepted by men and the straight world at large thus, second-guessing their decisions.
What starts out to be funny and entertaining ends up circling the drain of mediocre ideas & viewpoints before the final flush... This is not a look into a gay relationship lived with pride and self-acceptance but rather one who looks for acceptance from their neighbors which incidentally, they didn't have.... Wait for the DVD. Whatever happened to summers filled with great films???

What's In Your Cup?

2010-07-11T21:36:00.000-04:00

Now that the World Cup is over and Spain is the victor, I have some comments.
We all know I hate sports, blah blah blah.... while searching the Upper West Side for a restaurant to dine in early this evening, I was horrified by the spectacle of my neighborhood. Many restaurants that I love and patronize were filled to the rafters with screaming, drunken sports fans celebrating the win by saying "WE WON, WE WON!!!" Nobody understands booze and celebration more then me, but YOU didn't win, the team did. It is beyond gross to witness a bunch of middle aged, overweight, sweaty men screaming "we won" when they couldn't run the length of a soccer field without having a heart attack or coughing up a lung, and the way they were hugging and hanging their drunken bodies all over each other, it was just gay! Really now, what is this homosexual to think? It made my eyes hurt! not to mention how betrayed I felt by the establishments I turn to for fine food, a delicious rose' wine and good service on a Sunday for installing televisions and exploiting their own businesses all for a buck. I know times are tough but does a white table cloth restaurant really have to lower itself in that way??
I'd like to thank "Ducale" 392 Columbus Ave. @ 79th. Street for providing this patron with what he was looking for: Great Food, Great Wine & Great Sevice!

Lost In The Pines

2010-06-28T07:06:00.000-04:00

The Fire Island Pines (pictured) is where I'll be for the next week, over & out...

What Are You Proud Of?

2010-06-21T12:02:00.000-04:00

Today is the official start of Gay Pride Week. This week long celebration culminates on Sunday with a parade down 5th. Avenue to the west village where it all began, with the "Stonewall Riots" in June of 1969! (All other 5th. Avenue parades go uptown).

The Stonewall Inn, located at 53 Christopher St. has been a gay bar since the mid 60's. In those days Police were free to harass and arrest gay people who were all thought to be sexual deviants.

On 6.28.69 the bar patrons had enough of the harassment and a 3 day long riot ensued- gay life would never be the same.

The gay movement gathered great steam 10 years later with the advent of AIDS. When people started dying the rallying, marching & demanding of answers boiled over and a stronger, more focused group emerged...

It's 41 years since the riots and there are still battles being fought. The gay community is fighting for marriage equality & the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"...

If you are reading this blog and are "straight", you HAVE a gay family member. Think about it, you do! Do you see them as deviant? That person you love, that member of your family is denied rights that you have. Will you stand up and fight with them?

Do you love them on holidays then vote against them on election day? Do you attend & give money to a house of religion that turns them away? Do you allow them to fight & protect you as a soldier but refuse to know who they are? Are you proud?

You Don't Have To Be Gay, To Have Gay Pride!

Day 55...

2010-06-13T14:31:00.000-04:00

Today is the 55th day of the British Petroleum oil disaster in the gulf. If anyone is still against other sources of power they should be hanged.

What Does "FREEDOM" Mean To You?

2010-06-07T14:03:00.000-04:00

  If you are a reader of this blog, you already know how I feel about religion; I hate it!
  This country was founded for the "freedom of religion". Really? It's time to take it a step further. Think about this: "freedom from religion"
   As I walk through this life and look around, I keep seeing the signs of religion and I'm made sick! It's time to put the evidence away. I was thinking of a world wherein the religious could be free to practice any faith they choose but it would be against the law to show any signs of what your faith is, outside your house of worship. If you were not allowed to discuss or show your religion, we could all be free from the politicizing of it.
  Go to your house of worship every day for all I care but before you leave put down your scriptures, your idols, your symbols, your headcoverings. Move through the world as an equal human not the puppet of an organized club; be free to think on your own!

What Is Fashion?

2010-05-26T08:35:00.001-04:00

Sarah Jessica Parker for many years now, has been a fashion barometer for women around the world. While playing the "Sex In The City" character Carrie Bradshaw, Ms. Parker gained fame and recognition as an actress and fashionista. Having a killer acting ability, a tiny shapely body, strong facial features, beautiful hair and a love of clothing design, it was no shock she became one of the biggest fashion icons ever!
Over the years she actually made it acceptable to have "roots" and to literally be "in love" with a pair of shoes.
You gotta respect a change in the weather like that! Like it or not, SJP is here to stay! So when does it become acceptable to say "Okay That's Over!!"??
As a stylist, I've been made crazy over the years with this notion that as a women gets older she must cut her hair. Length of hair is dependent on shape, balance & proportion, not age!!!!!!!! Yes, flaws in shape, balance & proportion are easier to disguise with youth but a mature woman can have long hair- back to SJP...
  This top heavy, over-layered stringy mess of hair does not work anymore, It's become aging and overwhelming for this "Fashion Star" to keep shining bright!
I'd love to update her look before she turns into a caricature of herself....

"I'm Not Drinking Any Fucking Merlot!"

2010-05-23T15:23:00.001-04:00

I'm a Rose' Wine lover from birth; being Greek, it's in my blood. The trouble with Greek Rose' wine is the good ones are not exported to the states. The French Rose' wines are the best in the world. You can also find some made in Italy & Spain but I wouldn't recommend any of those- ever and the ones made here in the United States are expensive swill. In case you aren't aware, White Zinfandel is not a Rose'! A true Rose' is crisp & dry with a touch of fruitiness and served chilled!! I know that Rose' wines are usually fashionable throughout the spring and summer but I choose to drink them year round. Each spring season I look for the "ONE" that will be purchased by the case and put on chill for my "anytime" enjoyment! As a rule for me, the lighter in color the more I will like it.
My pick for this season is "MiP" (made in Provence) by Domaine Sainte Lucie. This wine is a blend of Cinsault, Grenahe & Syrah grapes, it's light-bodied with a fresh clean finish.
There are some Rose' Wines that certainly beat out MiP for many reasons but this wine is a GREAT choice for flavor & beauty in this economy! Mip is the first Rose' of this light a color that is affordable, Peter found a "by the case price" of $13.00 per bottle. So go get a case or a bottle and enjoy the weather... I'm having some now, so should you!

The Good Wife

2010-05-14T07:38:00.000-04:00

While on my way to Bed Bath & Beyond yesterday I stopped into Restoration Hardware. As I was checking out some merchandise, I looked up and was eye to eye with Julianna Margulies! I said, "Well hello". I received a smile and a "Hello" in return. I mentioned how much I loved her show- a larger smile & a "Thanks so much, I'm really having a good time with it". I responded, "It seems so". It was a very sweet New York moment for a Thursday afternoon... We're friends now, lunching next week!!!

Stand Up For World Peace Now!

2010-05-10T20:11:00.000-04:00

On nearly every continent of the globe there is a movement to end all war. I mean- nobody likes war, right? No family wants to lose a loved one in a senseless fight... so lets just end the fighting; there is a way to do this now!
Stop Following Your Religion! Whatever religion you follow, give it up. Take the time that you would usually spend practicing your religion and spend it with your family. Spread Love Now!

2010-05-03T19:25:00.000-04:00

Being married to an actor comes with the benefit of going to SAG screenings of films about to be released. Today Pete & I went to see "Solitary Man", the new film staring Michael Douglas.
If you find the subject of an older self-obsessed man falling for a young girl I suggest viewing the brilliant film "Elegy" staring Ben Kingsley & Penelope Cruz. "Solitary Man" is a poorly acted mess of a film and as if that isn't enough 30 minutes into the film Michael Douglas has a love scene with 22 year old actress Imogen Poots. The scene was so creepy that at 35 minutes in, we were out!! Don't Bother!

All Of Me, Why Not Take All Of Me??

2010-04-29T10:31:00.000-04:00

New York is looking to be the first state to assume that you want to donate your organs upon your death, unless otherwise stated in writing.
J.J. knows that this is brilliant and hopes that the public agrees. I have been an organ donor for 20 years now and have never been able to understand why some people are against it. About a 100,000 people die each year waiting for a much needed organ. It's just silly to bury a healthy, viable organ. If everyone was a donor, the 3 year long waiting list would be fulfilled in a week!
When I lost my cousin Maryann Montano to a heat attack late last year, she saved 3 lives by donating both of her kidneys and her liver. Her eyes were also harvested to give sight to someone else. Isn't that what we should all do?? Well, New York thinks so; I'm most proud to be a New Yorker!!! No matter where you live, become an organ donor today and save a life!!

You Don't Know Jack, Truly You Don't!!!

2010-04-26T18:32:00.004-04:00

Al Pacino's new film for HBO "You Don't Know Jack" is a wonderful study on the ridiculous puritanical ways of America.

Dr. Jack Kevorkian's story of compassion is told beautifully in this film and Mr. Pacino is perfect!

It made me feel sad that so many years have passed and we not only, didn't learn as a society from the great doctor's lessons but we have become more oppressed by the religious right.

We find it completely acceptable to euthanize our dying family pet but not to give the same compassion and respect to our beloved human family members.

Doctor Kevorkian was jailed by political officials that revered the bible more than the law. The bible is a book that should be burned and stricken from memory, along with all other religious writings.

What is it that we are so afraid of in life that we need religion to guide us? Do we fear ourselves or what we would become without it? It's been proven that people without a religion can be good and do good in the world. It's also been proven that ALL religions have caused wars and the huge loss of human life in a painful and barbaric manner.

When will we learn that to be good you have to do good? It sickens me that most people of this world think that their religion is good so it must be spread and in doing so kill the members of other faiths who stand in their way, then go on to condemn the works of compassionate Doctors because "They're Taking Gods Work Into Their Own Hands" Religion Gave Birth To Hypocrisy!

No Politics. Today It's Personal

2010-04-13T07:32:00.004-04:00

Friends Forever?...... Really?... Actually, yes...

How Do We Meet?

We start our socializing with family members, then with the kids our parents choose as friends, then it's onto our daycare mates and play dates. Then it's the kids on our block-close proximity; easy to be friends with them, then we start going to school and our scope broadens. The world begins to expand beyond the front lawn and so on... but who do we hold on to as time goes by?...

Do we choose that person or do they choose us? It's hard to say but there are those who stick, and those who go. Who goes? The friends who treat us badly. The friends who take and never give. The ones who want, want, want. Do we ever let a "good friend" go because they are being just that? Sure.. I did. It's hard to admit but I had a great friend in childhood that was a bit older then me. I looked up to him, I wanted to be like him, I loved him. He was a wonderful friend at a great time. I was struggling with my sexuality and without it ever being discussed, he helped me to be strong because he was strong. We became friends because we were both gay kids trying to find our way while being different from all others around us. The friendship didn't last because I was not ready to be "out" when he was. The age difference came between us, I wasn't ready so I turned on him. Like a child, which I was, I let him go and didn't think about him.... I thought about him constantly... When I was ready, it was too late, he was gone. I was never able to find my friend again but he is still with me, in my heart.

In my "High School Years" I met that one friend that stuck like glue. I may not have fully learned the lesson of the loss I just wrote about but a lesson in friendship was on it's way to me via a science class and the pretty blonde girl sitting in front of me, Beth. She was the new kid, having just moved to town from Cape Cod. I couldn't tell you then that 30 years later we would be friends but we are & she's one of the best! What makes her a great friend? No Judgements! Beth was always supportive and strong for me, even when she was weak in her own traumas. This is the lesson I was taught by her, friends support each other when they are in trouble, without question! Beth & I have supported each other over and over, back and forth. I love her & she loves me. She is the first member of my chosen my family.

Tennessee

2010-03-22T11:26:00.002-04:00

The Best Film That Nobody Has Seen. This One Gets My Oscar For Best Picture! Rent It Today!! Nothing Else Needs To Be Said!

Where Is The Delete Button??

2010-03-04T09:43:00.002-05:00

I'm a big fan of "Law & Order SVU" and last evening Kathy Griffin guest stared as a loud mouth, lesbian rights activist, blindly clawing her way into every situation she didn't belong. I didn't think this would be a stretch when you consider that Miss. Griffin is a loud mouth, unfunny comedian, clawing her way into the public awareness where she doesn't belong. I really can't completely blame her for this bad and laughable performance because it was so poorly written (I think they asked James Cameron to do it).

J.J. would really like a "Kathy Griffin Delete Button"! Whenever she turns up I could press it & she'd be gone!

MOST OFFENSIVE WAS THE PORTRAYAL OF LESBIANS AS STEREOTYPICAL, MILITANT, MAN HATERS!

IT'S 2010, AREN'T WE PAST THAT CRAP???

Don't Throw Stones...

2010-01-26T06:33:00.004-05:00

My dear friend "Dish" and all other celebrity stalkers are in a whirlwind of hysteria & speculation over the break-up stories starting to surface concerning Angelina & Brad.

J.J. has some thoughts to share: The break of any relationship is sad for the two involved. If you like them together or not it's irrelevant. the break-up is hard for them, allow them their private time.

As for the Jennifer Aniston fans going crazy, hoping for a reconciliation; Get A Grip!!! You may think you know what went on between them but you don't and to take sides when you don't know the truth is the mark of a loser! History shows that a reconciliation after a subsequent marriage is extremely rare!

I'm not sure that these break-up stories are truthful but I hope that they are not! I love Brad & Angelina as individuals and a couple and I hope their family does not have to go through this pain!

Here is a thought for all stalkers: in the amount of time that Brad was with Jennifer & with Angelina, how many relationships have you had?? How many loves? How many breaks? A famous couple get interviewed and are asked over & over when are you getting married? When are you getting married? When are you getting married? When are you getting married?

So they get married because WE make them believe that they should, and when it ends, We are devastated and angry! Perhaps they shouldn't have gotten married. Well here is the news flash: It's not about WE. It's not about US. It's about two broken hearts that you know nothing about. take a look at your own life & loves... don't throw stones...

The Suburbs On The Upper West Side

2009-12-17T09:46:00.002-05:00

J.J.'s worst fears have been confirmed! 7-Eleven is moving in across the street. I ran screaming from suburbia expecting not to be followed by all of its commonness.

When the conservative upper east siders & the banking community elected Nazi Mayor, Adolf Giuliani; common spread like a cancer to kill all that was outstanding & special about The Big Apple! Giuliani courted Corporate America, swaying them to open in the city that they always feared!

Fear of the city is good! It keeps it separate!! If one is afraid of the city, they'd stay home, this is a good thing!! Bringing stores from across America to make the tourist feel more comfortable takes the special flavor of the city away, kills The Mom & Pop Store & eventually kills the neighborhood.

So Welcome To NYC, Iowa! Come Visit Me At 7-Eleven On The Corner Of 93 & Amsterdam, I'll Be The One Out Front Crying...

"NINE" Is A 10!

2009-12-14T18:53:00.003-05:00

My most favorite musical "NINE", has moved from the Broadway Stage to the Silver Screen in Rob Marshalls long awaited film.

For all lovers of the stage show, this film will speak to your heart in the same way although a few small changes have been made. I sat in the audience and drank in every beautiful moment of this well made spectacle.

At first thought, I feared the casting of Daniel Day-Lewis as Guido Contini. I've always thought him to be to broad & cartoonish in creating characters in the past, but he's so smooth and subtle here that I couldn't even find the actor on the screen, I only saw Guido! His Italian accent is so real it will make you think that Meryl is just okay.

As for the ladies? Oh the sexy ladies... Marion Cotillard! Penelope Cruz! Judi Dench! Fergie! Kate Hudson! Nicole Kidman! & Sophia Loren; Brilliance all around, truly!!!

I won't make individual comments as to the changes made for the film except to say that they work and work well. The weak link in "NINE" is Nicole Kidman and not because of anything she did or didn't do but her scenes seemed too much like her Chanel Perfume ads...

J.J. predicts a best picture Oscar! Must See!!

The Road Not Taken

2009-11-29T12:32:00.002-05:00

At a recent SAG screening I saw the "The Road" directed by John Hillcoat this story, (book written by Cormac McCarthy, adapted by Joe Penhall) a post-apocalyptic tale of a man & his son searching for food and shelter while heading south, to the coast. Well the acting was good and there was certainly intrigue in the story telling but that was all there was. We don't know what catastrophic event took place to bring us here nor do we have any type of resolve in the end. I didn't read the book and perhaps it worked better on the page but I truly felt robbed of 2 hours of valuable time.

Film is meant to entertain or teach, "The Road" does neither...

Diane Schuler

2009-10-28T08:58:00.002-04:00

There have been many reports concerning Diane Schuler, The mother who allegedly drove drunk & high in a car filled with children, the wrong way on the Taconic Parkway. She crashed head-on into another car killing all of its passengers, herself & all, but one of the children with her.

Yesterday, On Oprah!, Miss Winfrey interviewed guests personally touched by this tragic event. J.J. was struck by the Schuler Family private investigator who stated that on a McDonald's surveillance video, Mrs. Schuler seemed completely normal! Then a short time later on a gas station surveillance video her behavior was quite erratic. He had no explanation for this.

I wonder.... Could Mrs. Schuler have been drugged by some crazy kids working at McDonald's???

Meatloaf Again?

2009-09-20T07:07:00.002-04:00

The New York Times is reporting some story about John Edwards, his affair, campaign funds & a grand jury- Really People? Again? J.J. has had it with this country's laundry picking! Why do you care?

We are sexual beings, whom ever we shag is our own affair!

These righteous puritanical ways must stop for the betterment of all!! Please get your bible out and burn it. Teach your children to love and be sexual without consequence, to trust and be fair without fear, to respect their god without religion.

Live your life as you chose & let all others do the same; equally!

Reading Names...

2009-09-06T09:08:00.004-04:00

This Friday is the 8th. anniversary of the attacks on America. As a New Yorker it is an especially hard day. I will never forget the horror, the fear or the smell!

As Friday approaches there are many news reports on the ceremony to take place wherein family members of those killed will publicly read their names... How long must they, and we endure this pain? With all the changes we have been through since the attacks, J.J. must ask- Isn't it time to move on and take care of The Living? The Hungry?, The Poor?, The Sick?, The Homeless?, The Economy?, The War?

September 11, 2001 was a day of sadness and heartbreak for all of us that must never be forgotten but can't we move past the pain and move ahead to the joy of life? We don't have much time...

"MOM VOYAGE"

2009-09-02T08:56:00.002-04:00

My dear friend Tania has started her own blog "MOM VOYAGE" I'll be following her posts and you should too! She is a most interesting Wife, Mother, Photo Journalist, Author & World Traveler, about to make a move from Tokyo to Moscow. I suspect her blog will make for some interesting, fun & thought provoking reading!

Shit Happens!

2009-08-20T09:08:00.002-04:00

On J.J.'s way home from a busy day of making New York more pleasing to the eye, his eyes were made to hurt as he came upon this poster for the new Jennifer Aniston film "Love Happens". I've been known to give Miss Aniston a hard time; it's no secret that I'm not a fan, but really now, will someone please explain to me what the attraction is to her?

Take a moment, go to imdb.com and look her up. In a career that spans 20 years the only memorable work she has done was to play as part of an ensemble cast of a hit Television Show. Oh, and she was once married to Brad Pitt.

I'm sure she is a nice person, I've not heard otherwise but how does one get so far on playing one note?? Success must not be about talent but must really be about luck, the alignment of planets or who you know, and/or bang.

I prefer talent!

Is This Cooking??

2009-07-16T21:47:00.003-04:00

I've never seen Gordon Ramsay's television shows. Why? you might ask. I'll tell you, just watching the commercials for them make me crazy, does he ever not scream? People who can only express themselves by screaming have serious emotional issues and should seek professional help. It's so sad to J.J. that this man is on the tube making people think that this behavior is acceptable. I'm horrified...

Stepping Down? No, Stepping Up.

2009-07-05T13:31:00.003-04:00

Alaskan Governor Sarah Palin has resigned. What will she do next?? My guess is that a talk show is in the works. Don't laugh, she's had offers and I bet she will use TV as a way to campaign her dumb Republican ass back into the good graces of the party.

No matter how you slice it, this country is equally divided and with the growing numbers of religion following brainless idiots I'm sure she will do quite well. Religion is evil & she is the devil! Follow your own heart & your own mind, not the ground swell!

Sarah, Oprah. Oprah, Sarah...

Charlie's Angel?

2009-07-01T21:20:00.003-04:00

Everybody's Angel!!

Nothing to say other then J.J. is heartbroken!

Ciao Bella!

Farewell...

2009-07-01T21:06:00.004-04:00

Michael Jackson is dead. To J.J. it's no surprise, yes very sad but no shock! As a small boy I wanted to be him! I worshiped the "5" but as I grew into adulthood, Michael became the last person I'd want to be. The embodiment of his self-loathing was the saddest thing to witness for this fan!

So What???

2009-06-25T09:17:00.002-04:00

Yes we have more headlines about a politician having an affair. Republican Governor Mark Sanford from South Carolina.... J.J. says, "Who Cares?" When will puritanical America realize that screwing someone other then your wife doesn't necessarily make you a bad person? Perhaps just a bad spouse...

Politicians cheat & connive as a sport and as a way of getting the job done, this is why we vote for them! Having a great ability to do so is applauded until it comes to their personal life. That is just not fair!!! These issues are between the politician and their spouse. "We The People" have no place here!

I must admit that any Republican being taken down for any reason fills me with joy!!!

I Want To Scream!

2009-06-11T08:15:00.004-04:00

I'm being made to go nuts! The New York State Senate, The Holocaust Museum Shooting? J.J. is so tired of all the CRAZY and all the HATE.

Defecting Senators must be reminded that they are put into office to carry out the will of the people. This political power maneuver is about their own wants & desires. They should be taken out in cuffs and banished from the system. It's not about them, it's about us!! As for the museum shooting, here's an idea, lets take every gun owner that is not a member of law-enforcement and shoot them in the kneecaps! They get to live, just not walk!

The Right To Bear Arms should only be in the style of our most fabulous First Lady, Michelle Obama - Bare Arms!!! There is absolutely no reason for anyone to own a gun! Oh, and if you bring up hunting as a sport, pick up a Bow & Arrow and we'll get to see what sportsmanship is when the hunted has a chance to run!

Don't Ask, Don't Tell...

2009-06-09T08:03:00.000-04:00

Amber Waves Of Jackasses!

2009-05-27T09:35:00.004-04:00

California Supreme Court Upholds The States Ban Of Gay Marriage. Be A Proud American! You Live In A Country Where Civil Liberties Are Determined By The Majority! Don't You Feel Good? Don't You Feel Better? Don't You Feel Stronger? It's So Nice To Hold Others Back Because You Have No Other Way To Stand Out In The Crowd!

Update...?

2009-05-21T08:50:00.002-04:00

Since my last post "Supremely Gay Court", People have suggested to me that President Obama will surely appoint a gay man or woman to fill the seat left vacant by Justice David Souter, "Why replace a gay judge with a straight one?" OMG! Is Justice Souter Gay?? Have I had my head in the sand?? Does anybody know the truth?? Okay faithful readers, J.J. needs your help with this one...

Supremely Gay Court...

2009-05-07T09:08:00.005-04:00

The New York Times is reporting that President Obama is being forced to deal with "Gay" issues now that individual states are changing their own laws to be more inclusive to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgendered community.

Some members of the LGBT community are outraged that President Obama has done nothing to repeal "Don't Ask Don't Tell" in the military, as promised in his campaign. The Times also states that two of the Presidents possible choices of the Supreme Court are openly gay.

A gay person on the court will certainly change the fabric of this nation From a quilt to gold lame'

Could this be President Obamas way of getting around his "christian" ties?? Perhaps the bible isn't as important to him as GOD. Perhaps he would like to live in the real world of equality! Perhaps J.J. could admire him even more!!

Equality can only rise with the fall of religion...

The Music Of Your Life...

2009-05-05T07:32:00.004-04:00

SPOILER ALERT: In discussing "The Soloist" I give plot themes away!

I went to a screening of "The Soloist" yesterday. To my surprise I really enjoyed it; having heard that it wasn't that good. When a film is promoted as much as this one before its opening it usually means disaster.

Robert Downey Jr. gives a deep & thoughtful performance. Jamie Foxx is very good but not special. The surprise of this film is that it's not formulaic, "The Soloist" is not what the audience expects which is probably why I heard it wasn't good. You expect a story about a schizophrenic street urchin cellist that is befriended by a news man, has his story told and gets to play symphonies -NOT- "The Soloist" is Robert Downey Jr. He is playing the symphony of his life, his music. The cellist is the instrument he employs to find his own chords. Subtle & Beautiful!!!

Gun Down The Pig or Pig Down The Gun??

2009-04-28T20:41:00.005-04:00

The Swine Flu has got all of America running scared. Originating in Mexico, this flu can be a killer. Masks have been worn, Schools have been closed & Vacations have been cancelled. The CDC is working hard to stop this disease before it becomes a pandemic. Living in a city as I do, the idea of a massive airborne illness is quite frightening! The big shock for me is the lack of concern for other killers in our communities! J.J. would like to know why the country doesn't appear to care about a much bigger killer - GUNS! Gun violence in kills 30,000 Americans a year! That's a sickness that can easily be stopped with out medicine or pain! Where is the outrage??

What A Drag...

2009-04-15T09:38:00.004-04:00

Take a look at these guys and forget religion for a moment. They look like a couple of overweight, village queens about to lip sink to "Its Raining Men".

It is no secret that I don't follow any religion. I just don't understand how so many of my fellow world citizens think so little of themselves that they choose to follow a bunch of bible beating lost souls. GOD is in you and nowhere else! The bible & the church are made up, worthless crap. The teachings of the church will only teach you to behave and hate the way others want you to! Love Yourself, Love All Others & Love God; To Do So, Leave Religion Behind!

Please Curb Your Dog.

2009-04-14T17:23:00.002-04:00

This is Francesca, the best little girl in the world! I know many people feel their dogs are better then everyone else's. That said, I would like to discuss New York City's "Curb" laws. The law states that when walking your dog, it should be taken to the curb to do its business, then you MUST clean up what your "little love" has left behind. If you neglect to do so, you will be punished by a $100. fine. As a resident of "The Big Apple", I have never seen anyone busted for this crime but most everyone picks up after their pooch. The problem I have is not with the animals but their owners! People think that as long as they pick up the shit that it does not matter where their dog goes. this is NOT the case! It's called "curbing" your dog! Not "sidewalking" your dog. I am sick to death of seeing shit swipes in the middle of sidewalks that pedestrians must maneuver around not to track little remnant's of, into their homes! Or sitting at an outdoor cafe and having a dog leave a load two feet from my salad & glass of fine wine. I have respect for you and your dog. You have respect for the law. How about a little respect for your neighbor???

Better Idea??

2009-03-31T07:43:00.003-04:00

I'm so sick & tired of all the relentless criticism of President Obama's plans to get the United States "up and running" again! I've heard lots of bitching but not one single alternative plan. For 8 years the Bush administration and its Republican supporters walked in confidence that they were "In Charge & Knew What They Were Doing". Guess what assholes, you didn't! May I suggest that you sit back, shut up & let a leader with a brain and an education show you how things get done! None of us know if Obama's plans are going to do what he hopes but until you have a better plan or are "In Charge" again, just bend over and take it, like we had to!

What's It All About??

2009-03-23T10:55:00.004-04:00

After more then a year of being on facebook making new friends and reconnecting with old ones, as if it is a contest to see who has the most friends in the end. J.J. is fed up!!! Not necessarily with facebook itself but what it has done to me as a man. I'm now far to knowledgeable as to what people are doing, thinking, where they are going and why!! This type of connection to the world at large is a bit much. Yes, there are good things about it. When I first started with facebook I found a second cousin, Gus. I had thought about him many times over the years and always wondered where he was, and now we are in touch and building a relationship. That's the best to come out of it. Last evening, admittedly having had a little wine, I found myself leaving a not so nice posting on the wall of an old friend that I really don't care about. I was spewing all this shit about her "friending" me and then not responding to my messages. I was able to delete the post this morning not knowing if she read it or not; that did make me feel a little better about myself, but what gets to me is that I went to that "place" over someone I stopped being friends with long ago! We fell out of touch nearly 20 years ago and I allowed myself to forget why, while collecting "facebook friends". There is a reason that we let people fall by the wayside, it's not a good idea to backtrack on the road of life picking up all that has been lost. It might have been a treasure at one time but now it's just and something for the scrap pile.

2009-03-22T10:40:00.002-04:00

For those of you that are not aware of old Hollywood brilliance, I'd like to tell you about "The Best Years Of Our Lives". Released in 1946, it won The Oscar for best picture. It's a wonderfully told story about war and how it affects our service men & their family's at home. It's slow, deliberate & beautiful. I've been in love with this film since I first watched it with my parents on television as a child. If you haven't seen it, rent it, settle in and let it unfold; you'll be moved. It's the type of film that I could never imagine being remade but it has been in a loose way. last evening I watched "The Lucky Ones", a terrific little film about 3 soldiers home on a 30 day leave. If I thought for one second it was a remake of one of the best films ever, I never would have given it a chance but I must say that it is a great blend of "Best Years.." & "Stop-Loss". Both of these films are important and thought provoking. Stop wasting your time on those Will Farrell/Ben Stiller/Jack Black/Adam Sandler unfunny comedies! Take the time to rent a film that could possibly teach you something and touch your heart; aren't you worth it?

Stupid Cupid

2009-03-12T08:54:00.003-04:00

Well all news sources are reporting the break up of Bristol Palin & Levi Johnston. Reports say that the couple mutually decided to end their relationship "a while ago". I knew on the campaign trail, this union would never last! This "open legged" child of her "open legged" mother, never intended to marry this boy, and he never intended to marry her. It was written all over them; does the Republican Party think America can't read body language? This was all a ploy to help the family look more "respectable"; respectable to who? J.J. could care less who's "doing" who remember, I'm a big atheist fag! .... This 19 year old couple were planning a wedding because of a pregnancy. "We need to do the right thing", "We've sinned by having premarital sex", "Now we must marry". Can't you just hear all the TV movie cliches? The question that J.J. would really like answered is: Why not have an ABORTION? You want to do the right thing?? Spare this child from being born into a family that twists the rules of religion to suit their needs. You've already sinned. Do you really think, one sin is lesser? Is one crime worse then the other? I'm not a believer as you know, but it can't possibly work that way. Wake up America, following a religion does not make you a good person, having faith & understanding in yourself will do that!!!

Why Hate?

2009-02-26T08:28:00.004-05:00

Can any of us imagine a world without hate? It seems to J.J. that as much as our society moves forward, it also moves back. In November we elected a black man to hold the highest office; in December a man was beaten to death because his attackers thought him to be gay. Will the parents of our nation ever raise adults instead of children??

On December 7, 2008 at 3:30 am. Jose O. Sucuzhanay was beaten to death on a Brooklyn street by Hakim Scott (arrested yesterday) & his accomplice Keith Phoenix (still on the run). It is believed that the attackers thought Mr. Sucuzhanay to be gay because he walked arm in arm with another man, his brother Romel, who was not injured in this attack.

I find it amazing that people are so concerned with the lives of others; so what if they were gay? How did this impact the lives of Mr. Scott & Mr. Phoenix? Had they kept driving by, Mr. Sucuzhanay would be alive & I would be working on my book instead of writing this.

What this comes down to is HATE & HOMOPHOBIA. It is important to always remember that hate in any form is taught! Why were these men taught to hate and how? Did they have a homophobic parent? Or was it the largest source of hate there is - Religion? Whatever the case, hate is born out of fear, the fear of what we are! We are taught to hate those who are "different", but what if we feel different as we're being taught this? We are then forced to shutdown our feelings and internalize our hate. Hate within will make anyone sad. The only time this sadness doesn't exist is when we allow this hate to explode out of us! Homophobia is not the fear OF homosexuals, it is the fear of BEING homosexual. I only hope that when Mr. Scott & Mr. Phoenix (when apprehended) are serving time for this heinous act, they are given time to explore their inner fear. I'm hopeful they will have cellmates willing to help with their lessons.

Idol?

2009-02-25T22:09:00.002-05:00

J.J. has been watching "American Idol", not because I chose to but because my husband Peter who is a singer enjoys it. Now that I've made that clear it must be said. It's a mediocre show with four judges that are about the biggest idiots on television!

Everybody Loves Oscar!

2009-02-21T21:46:00.002-05:00

Who will go home with an Oscar? I predict

Leading -- Actor, Mickey Rourke. Actress, Kate Winslet

Supporting -- Actor, Heath Ledger. Actress Penelope Cruz

Director - Danny Boyle Film - Slumdog Millionaire

J.J.'s preferences Sean Penn or Frank Langella for Leading Actor

Michael Shannon for Supporting Actor & Milk for best film...

LOOK FOR J.J. ON THE RED CARPET!

POST BOYCOTT

2009-02-20T07:16:00.005-05:00

There is NO excuse for this & NO apology is sufficent. I implore you BOYCOTT THE NEW YORK POST!!!

Wrestling...

2009-02-17T20:34:00.001-05:00

It just so happens that two posts in a row are film reviews. okay?Peter & J.J. went to see "The Wrestler" last evening, I insisted actually, it was the last of the Oscar Nominated films that I was really interested in seeing. I must start by letting you know that I Love Mickey Rourke! Having run to see all his films years ago because of my school boy crush on him, J.J. learned that even beauty like that can be filled with talent!! He was always a Great Actor!!! He clearly had some trouble being himself down on earth, but up on that screen - MAGIC!

All these years go by without a film- he's healing himself- he's finding himself- he's cleaning up his mess- Blah Blah Blah. Who Isn't??? That's Growing!

So here we are on the Upper West Side with popcorn in hand waiting anxiously for it to start. While listening to this wonderful Spanish music being pumped through the speakers of this art house cinema. I start to think about a vacation to Miami that we spent at our favorite hotel "The Raleigh" about four years ago. Mickey was a guest during our stay as well. I won't make up some fun story about how we hung together poolside and shared laughs, fun as that could be but I will tell you the unexpected truth; by chance we ended up very near to him poolside about 4 different times during our stay. A little small talk was made, we played with his dogs, we wished each other a good morning, we shared an afternoon beverage. He wouldn't know J.J. now if he fell over me but that also wouldn't make me change my opinion of how charming and friendly he is.

That said, "The Wrestler" is a good film, not a great one. It is wonderful to see Mickey back on top, but award winning? NO. Well not for him. This film and any awards it might receive, belong to Marisa Tomei no matter who goes home with them!

Taken?

2009-02-10T08:13:00.002-05:00

Yesterday J.J. went to see "Taken" The new Liam Neeson thriller, well supposed thriller. This Pierre Morel directed mess was laughable, with a slow start to set up the story and a jam packed hour of ridiculous action sequences, this short film made me focus on my watch almost as much as the bad, bad, bad, bad hairpiece atop Mr. Neeson's head. There was no reason that this character could not be bald. That said, this piece on his head was too dark & too small, it looked like a dead bird fell out of the sky and landed there. It would have been no different had they just fitted him with a basket of fruit a la Carmen Miranda.

I really enjoyed the car chase filmed in the dark with 6 white SUV's so you couldn't tell who was where, that yawn made me feel so much better.

The thrill of this for me was hitting the street when it was over...

Day 1.

2009-01-21T08:58:00.002-05:00

Ahhhhhhhh....

J.J. is enjoying a long sigh of relief!!!

It's Getting To Be That Time

2009-01-17T16:37:00.002-05:00

Two More Days And America Will Be Out Of The Bush's!!!!!

Cold, Icy Thursday

2009-01-16T08:18:00.002-05:00

Geese? Yes that's what they reported, geese flew into both engines of a U.S. Airways jet bound for Charlotte and caused it to plunge into the Hudson River. Escaping what seemed like a certain death, all passengers & crew made it out alive. The captain of this airline is being praised for his quick thinking and skill but in all the news coverage of this story, not once did J.J. hear him called a HERO! The news media has now made it clear that "hero" is a word only to be used for overpaid, arrogant, lawbreaking Sports Figures.

So I Will Say It: CAPTAIN CHESLEY B. SULLUNBURGER IS A HERO!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'd like to think that this wonderful turn of events in the face of tragedy is a sign for the future of our nation & its new administration! Because of this airliner the "Bush Farewell Speech" was not even mentioned on the 11:00pm. news.

WE'RE OFF TO A GOOD START!!!!!!!!

Day 3...

2009-01-01T13:02:00.002-05:00

Well here we are, the third day of 2009. Has your hangover quieted down?? J.J. is wondering what this new year has in store for us. "It must be better then last year" is the common statement at New Years Eve Parties, year after year. Does the year need to be better or do we? This life moves by very quickly. Don't wait for something to change it, you'll be waiting a long time. We must make change ourselves, I don't mean resolutions, I'm talking real change. We must decide to be happy. I'll say it again, "Suffering Is The Resistance To What Is" -- Make Your Own Kind Of Music And Dance...

Our Eartha...

2008-12-26T07:55:00.002-05:00

With the Christmas passing of Eartha Kitt, J.J. is struck by the scope of one woman's mark on this earth. Will we ever see such strides again? This young, abused, southern child of mixed race fled to NYC and started down a path that would change the world. Changes would be made in music & entertainment and larger changes would be made in politics & government. While struggling to survive without a place to live in a strange city; Miss Kitt danced her way out of poverty, than sang her way into the hearts of millions. After landing a television show and numerous award nominations, she was invited by the Johnson White House to a luncheon where she dared open her mouth directly to the President against the Vietnam War.

She was branded an uneducated "colored woman" from the streets that caused trouble. The Johnson administration saw to it that she would find it impossible to get work. Forced to flee the U.S., Miss Kitt stood her ground by not apologizing. It took many years for her to be accepted in America again.

Eartha Kitt was the finest definition of a patriot!!!!!! She questioned her government no matter the cost!

"Where have gone Joe Dimaggio???" I feel we no longer have SMART role models to look to, for intelligent action. Can you imagine Paris Hilton or Britney Spears speaking out against a popular thought or even having a thought? J.J. is made sick by our society's role models of the day! Has anyone got a tagamet?

A Change In The Decor'...

2008-12-18T08:15:00.002-05:00

As the Obama Family prepares for a move to Pennsylvania Avenue, there is much speculating on redecorating schemes and how the new residents will choose to live in their new surroundings.

Look at these two women. The one on the left - the dutiful, obedient little wife with no career or sense of style beyond a 1950's suburban housewife. Mrs. Obama is the new style for our country, a woman that will stand apart from the wallpaper!

Peace For Greece...

2008-12-11T08:44:00.002-05:00

There have been 5 days of riots in Athens, Greece due to the killing of a teenage boy by police. It's very hard to get news at this point and know what the truth is. I will tell you, The New York Times reports "The boy was killed by a scraped and deformed bullet - a ricochet, perhaps a warning shot gone astray." Whatever the case, J.J. is hoping for the end of this turmoil so the violence can stop & investigative truth can be found.

How do you think the citizens of Greece would react if a group of drunk, off duty police officers pumped 50 bullets into an unarmed man the night before his wedding and got away with it???...

Early Again..

2008-12-08T13:15:00.002-05:00

I know it's rare and you'll all be surprised, but the truth is I made a mistake...

Last weeks post "Calling All Gays" (12.3.08) was a week too early. "A Day Without Gays" is to take place this Wednesday, December 10. So if your favorite fruit isn't being served, you'll know why...

Wave Goodbye...

2008-12-06T07:46:00.002-05:00

Finally! O.J. Simpson is heading for the slammer. It's sad to me that our justice system failed us and he walked on his murder charge, but as a believer of every dog having their day; his day has come.

So Mr. Simpson be the bitch, bend over and squeal like the pig that you are and take it.

Calling All Gays, Calling All Gays...

2008-12-03T07:32:00.004-05:00

Today is the day that all gay people across America are supposed to "Call Out Gay"! That's right, call there job's and say that they can't make it into work today because "I'm Gay". This is being touted as effort to make straight America realize how many people there are who don't have equal rights. I live & work in NYC. I'm openly gay to all of my family & friends. At my place of business there is only one straight person, and we've worked hard at accepting him and have given him all the same rights as other employees. It's easy.....

J.J. was thinking that he wouldn't call "Out Gay" today, what difference would it make in a Salon filled with Gay Men and a client list of accepting patrons who are in support of my having equal rights??

Today I got to call out sick, yes that winter bug has just come home to roost in my UWS Pink Palace.... UGH!!!

Shot In The Leg?

2008-12-02T07:30:00.005-05:00

I have to say it. If my mother had given me a name like Plaxico, which really sounds like a factory name, I'd blow my brains out!

Big Baz

2008-12-01T21:14:00.002-05:00

J.J. & Peter went to see the Baz Luhrmann extravaganza "Australia"

This is a must see film of epic proportion and it reminded me that the simple way of life is the way to live & love.

Fighting Over Marbles

2008-11-29T08:03:00.004-05:00

The lead story on the news today is about Stephon Marbury refusing to play because his feelings have been hurt and now the New York Knicks are going to fine him $400,000.00 for not getting off his ass.

Athletic exercise and endurance training are very important for ones health; physical & mental. That being said, I loathe team sports. I firmly believe that all team sports like religion, were created to induce hate. They both teach people to believe that they are better or stronger than another player or someone who thinks differently than they do is wrong.

J.J. thinks that one of the saddest things in our society is that players of war games are rewarded with millions of dollars and teachers who mold the minds of our youth are underpaid and unappreciated...

What Are You Thankful For?

2008-11-27T10:48:00.003-05:00

On this day of giving thanks, whom do we thank? Do we just have a feeling of deep appreciation for all the good things in life; what about the bad things? Are we supposed to thank someone in particular? Is it God, our Parents, our Friends, our Spouses, our Children?

Today J.J. thanks all who helped to shape the man he is today. I'm thankful for the grace of my parents for teaching me to love and be good. I'm thankful for the friends & lovers that have come & gone, but mostly for the ones that have endured. I'm thankful for Peter, my true and unconditional love! I'm thankful for my children, the ones that have never been born. I'm thankful for all the trauma & sadness I've experienced. All these forces came together to shape this happy & successful man. I will thank my God! To do so, I thank myself, I am my God. I will not suffer what is, I will embrace it. All that is good & bad in my life is because of me. I'm thankful for my clarity & perspective. I'm most thankful for the ones that I loved that are now gone. They are forever alive in my heart, helping the God inside me move through this life and choose the respectful path of integrity.

Fresh Milk

2008-11-25T20:13:00.002-05:00

Last evening J.J. had the privilege of attending the SAG screening of "MILK"; Gus Van Sant's new feature staring Sean Penn as Harvey Milk, San Francisco's slain city supervisor. When you have the ability to see an acting performance like this, it is a privilege! Mr. Penn truly embodies this character. He portrays this man's homosexuality and physical manner without ever being stereotypical or offensive. To watch him in a love scene with James Franco and believe it's real was so fresh. As a gay man, I'm sick to death of actors making us look like clowns; no circus here. This is an engrossing film of love, truth & hate, run to the theatre and see this film. I smell an Oscar.

A Modern Christmas..

2008-11-20T09:06:00.003-05:00

What does the Christmas Holiday mean to you? December 25 which is 5 weeks from this very day is coming quickly, as it always seems to. For J.J. Christmas as a child was made magical by my parents. Putting lights outside the house, hanging stockings, decorating the tree, running home from school to read the holiday cards that came in the mail, my mother and sister baking cookies for weeks; all in preparation for the big day. We would wake and fly from our beds to the living room filled with gifts. Dad was up before anybody and had the Turkey in the oven. The smell wafting through the house as we opened our presents made all the love and joy even warmer. It wouldn't be long before the house was filled with relatives and our belly's were filled with food. Year after year this tradition started to fade as my generation of the family grew toward adulthood; by the time I was 20, the holiday became a little sad for me and it took me some years to realize that I needed to create "New" holiday magic for myself.

This Christmas might prove to be in need of a different magic for all of us. With the economy swirling in the toilet it's time for a holiday of REAL magic. Not about gifts & abundance but about friends, family & love - being together will be the theme of 2008.

A Bridge, Not Far...

2008-11-19T08:18:00.004-05:00

Today on what would be the 83rd. birthday of RFK, New York state is renaming the tri-borough bridge "The Robert F. Kennedy Bridge". As A United States Attorney General, A New York Senator & A Brave And True Soldier In The Fight For Civil Rights, it is only fitting that his life works be honored with a bridge. His life cut short by hate and fear, when he was working so hard to build bridges where they have always been needed most, between all of us! I know in my heart that he would be proud, as I'm sure his family is. Long live the ideals of RFK!

I Did It, Will You?

2008-11-15T06:53:00.002-05:00

J.J. woke up this morning and put his money where his mouth is! In a follow up to yesterdays post, I went online to TreatsForTroops.com and sent a "Holiday Care Package" to a soldier fighting in Iraq. It was incredibly easy and affordable.

I can tend to rant & rave about things as you well know, but that is my way of letting off steam; then I'm done. It's true, I bitch and then I don't do anything to change what is making me unhappy.

Let me now tell you, it feels great to step up and do something. Throughout this war that I have spent an enormous amount of time screaming about. I have also told everyone how important it was to support the troops, and then done nothing to support them. Now that I have, I feel great! It's nice to know that I'm not too old to learn a new trick...

This Holiday Season

2008-11-14T07:41:00.004-05:00

J.J. has been inspired by Terry, a childhood friend. We've recently reconnected via the facebook phenomenon. On his status bar he wrote a message to urge everyone to remember our military this holiday season & possibly send them care packages. Reading this message stopped me in my tracks. I've been so caught up in fighting against this war & the Bush administration. That I haven't thought about the Men & Women overseas in the trenches. My focus for the last 2 years or so, has been on getting a Democrat in The White House; nearly forgetting that no matter who lives at 1600, we have a war going on and as much as I think it is wrong, I do support our troops. So lets all follow Terry's lead! When you sit down at your holiday table to join hands & give thanks. Make sure that you are thankful for already having gone to the post office and sending that package!

I always remembered Terry as a nice guy, clearly the last 25 years haven't changed him, Thanks Friend....

The Church Must Be Stopped!

2008-11-13T07:42:00.003-05:00

Any religious organization trying to step on the civil rights of others must be taken out! How is it that anyone with a brain can follow a religion? All religions are exclusionary and eventually teach it's followers that non-believers are wrong and should be hated. What should be hated is the unfair treatment of anyone in society. We must treat our fellow man with respect, kindness & understanding; to do so, religion cannot exist.

Detroit Bailout??

2008-11-11T20:04:00.002-05:00

J.J. is very concerned over another government bailout. I'm a big Obama supporter but all this wild spending is frightening. How will these huge dollar amounts ever get paid back? I hope that the auto makers are not just given a blank check to use at their own discretion. They have financially failed in running their business already, what if they fuck up again? We can't bail out every bad business. Who bails out the small business owner when they get into trouble?

Who Loves You Baby?

2008-11-10T20:30:00.003-05:00

My time spent with Peter is always loving but this weekend was special! Saturday Evening, J.J. & Peter dined at "The Fig & Olive" in NYC's ever fabulous Meatpacking District. We shared an outstanding meal with our dear friends Randy & Doug, visiting from New Orleans. Sitting at the table made me feel warm and fuzzy. The greatest time spent, is the time you spend with those you love!

Sunday we attended the wedding of friends, Christina & Anthony! I've never heard more important or heartfelt vows. I was so happy to be at this ceremony with Peter by my side; love filled "The Brooklyn Botanical Garden", all the bullshit fell away and the simplicity of life shown through -JUST LOVE-

Paradise Is Here, For Now...

2008-11-06T08:15:00.003-05:00

This is where J.J. is, at least in his mind. As Barack Obama won this hard fought election I have relaxed into a peaceful & calm man. Not being able to take a vacation due to the Republican economic disaster, I had been a bit on edge. I know that this vacation in my mind like all others, will come to an end. This nation and it's new leader will have a hard road ahead. I expect things to get worse before they get better. Please, lets all remember that sacrifices will have to be made by ALL of us for ALL of us. We are taking a new path and untraveled roads take time to enjoy. We as a nation must not let impatience & frustrations cause us to turn back.

YES WE CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-04T23:15:00.003-05:00

Help Is On The Way

01-20-09

NYC, My Love!

2008-11-04T06:45:00.003-05:00

After waking at 5:00am, throwing himself together, grabbing Peter & running out the door, J.J.'s vote for BARACK OBAMA was cast!

Being on line to vote at 5:30 in the morning with about 20 people ahead of us, Peter & I were inspired by the early turn out and the excitement in the air. When the Polls opened a 6:00 the line we were on, stretched down west 93rd. street, turned the corner and worked it's way south on Amsterdam Ave. The joy in the air was palpable! Neighbors out of bed way earlier then usual, with smiles on their faces, greeting each other with happy, "Good Morning's" --- Yes, this is a real good morning! Seeing this type of turnout for an election makes me believe that CHANGE isn't only coming; it's here!

You're My Hero?

2008-11-03T07:52:00.003-05:00

J.J is totally fed up with the overuse of the word hero! By definition hero, is a person, who is admired for outstanding achievements. Someone being American by birth does not make them a Hero! John McCain called Joe The Plumber an American Hero. He is an unlicensed plumber that lied, when speaking to Obama at a rally. How does this make him a hero? What about Sports Figures?? They are constantly being called hero's; they are seriously overpaid players of a game, how does winning a game make a hero? is that outstanding achievement?? If you're having a hard time with this, it's not!!! What about John McCain himself? The media calls him a war hero, why?? Because he was shot down, interned in a prison camp for five years, tortured and survived? I don't think the hero is the guy that gets caught or dies. A hero, saves a life.

"Standing In The Corner"

2008-11-01T06:54:00.003-04:00

I have a little magic back. Without the election being over, I actually got some book writing done last evening. I was thinking all day yesterday, that I just wasn't going to be able to write until after Obama was declared the winner and then I came in from work and it started to flow again. "There's No Place Like Home, There's No Place Like Home, There's No Place Like Home....."

I'm really fond of these self-focused, self-centered & self-involved blog posts, as if you hadn't noticed........

I Can't Stop!

2008-10-30T21:34:00.003-04:00

This is Rachel Maddow, my new obsession. I am drawn to watching "The Rachel Maddow Show" every night on MSNBC. I want election day to come so all of this political shit will disappear, Obama will move his family into the White House & I can get back to writing my book with a relaxed mind!

Adele 19

2008-10-30T08:52:00.002-04:00

Okay kids, have any of you heard this 20 year old British chick, Adele sing?? In a word, WOW! Run to the music store, if you can still find one; I suggest downloading legally from iTunes, as I did, but get her CD entitled "19"!!!!!!!! Her sound is new!!! REALLY NEW!! This is not the same definition of "new" when it was used to describe common, boring, whining, singers like Sheryl Crow, Fiona Apple, Bjork, Jewel, Amy Winehouse & Alanis Morssette.

A sound & soulful style like Adele's has not hit the airwaves since Cass Elliot arrived!

Remember, J.J. is about truth. Adele is the real deal!!!! Have a listen!

Howwwwwwwdee...

2008-10-28T19:01:00.005-04:00

I have taken notice of all young kids in New York City wearing baseball caps with the manufacturing/size sticker still intact. Call J.J. a crazy fool, but I just don't understand how this has become a fashion. I wish somebody would explain it to me! Every time I see it, I think of Minnie Pearl...

Melinda & Melinda

2008-10-27T12:57:00.002-04:00

I just caught Woody Allen's "Melinda & Melinda" It's an interesting little film that is moderately entertaining. I have not been a big a fan of Will Ferrell in the past and this film made me realize that he is truly a horrible actor. I just don't get what the attraction to him is. He has spent his career making the same stupid film over & over again and when he finally tried to step out of his idiocy box, he proved that he just can't.

Oprah's Diet...

2008-10-26T14:50:00.003-04:00

I respect Oprah! Her show has gotten to be a little to much of a love fest between her and her rich friends for me to watch, but I do believe that she does wonderful things for the people of this world! That said I must comment on something she does that makes J.J. nuts! Miss O. has been packing on the pounds again and that is just fine with me; I've had a weight struggle of my own to deal with for all of my adulthood. If she is happy with her body there is only one thing to say- "You Go Girl"! But she is always mentioning her diet and time at the gym. Miss O. You're on television everyday, we can see you! If your going to be an advocate for healthy life styles shouldn't you have one??

"You Say It's Your Birthday"

2008-10-24T07:59:00.002-04:00

Today J.J. is 44. In honor of my own Birthday, I would like to take a moment to share & celebrate, life & living, and take a break from all my political rants. As I look back on my 44 years, I see a life of good fortune and wealth. I have had a very cushioned life, even as I remember the horrible times. I know there are many people who have had it much worse than I, and that saddens me - life is not fair. While blowing out the candles and starting my 45th. year, this is my wish! I wish for all of my loved ones, the ones I don't love so much & the ones I don't know to have what I have! A life of positive perspective - A glass that is always half full! A bounty of loving family & friends. A career filled with joy. & A home to return to at the end of each day where you are loved unconditionally! Happy Birthday To YOU!

I'm Tired, Are You?

2008-10-22T22:00:00.002-04:00

Election coverage, Bad television shows, Failing economy. My head is spinning! I'd like to work on my book but I can't focus. What am I to do? How can I stay sane? Am I sane?

It's A Bird! It's A Plane!

2008-10-22T08:51:00.002-04:00

It's "OBAMAMAN!!!!!!!!!" J.J. loves watching him fly.....

Can November 4th. Be Tomorrow?

2008-10-21T08:05:00.004-04:00

This is the Siquoia Electronic Voting Machine, advertised to be tamper proof. It has been proven that it can be hacked in 3 minutes. How will this info play out? If this election is close, will we experience another "Katherine Harris Mess" as we did in 2000?? J.J. wishes we could vote tomorrow, Obama would win every state & that map would be blue from coast to coast! I need to stop worrying about politics on such a great level. I want my life back!