Barack Obama...brown paper bag and ruler test; does he pass? McLaughlin talks!

Intriguing cast of characters on McLaughlin group...


In the wake of the initial brouhaha over race issues in the current presidential race - and the subsequent feeding frenzy on the part of the media and pundits thereafter - the McLaughlin Group invited two well-known "Black" personalities to appear on air to discuss the African American "elite" class from their unique perspectives.

For sure, it was an intriguing, lively, and insightful discussion.

To get the ball rolling - McLaughlin probed the two speakers right off-the-bat about a curious subject - exclusive private clubs for "blacks".

For example, he quizzed them as to whether inclusion in a "member only" club was essential to secure a place in the rarefied air of the upper-crust in America.

And - in the event that were true - from the horse's mouth sought to determine which organizations those might be.

I was surprised to learn there are a handful of "private clubs" that cater to select African American cliques. To gain entrance - a potential candidate not only needed a personal invitation - but was required to meet strict qualifications, as well.

The "Guardsmen" and "Jack and Jill" appeared to be two exclusive clubs at the top of the wish list for any black hopeful.

According to the founders of "Jack and Jill", the mission of their group is,

"To create a medium of contact for children which will stimulate their growth and development, provide constructive educational, cultural, civic, recreational, and social and service programs for children, and aid mothers in learning more about their children by careful study. It is also the goal to seek for ALL children the same advantages we desire for our own. And, to support all national legislation aimed at bettering conditions for children."

In sum, "Jack and Jill" seeks to raise community awareness of the needs of children, concerns within the African American community - and likewise - prompt action in respect to these and other pressing relevant issues when appropriate.

Through national incentives like health programs and collaborative partnerships with other organizations, local chapters of "Jack and Jill" allegedly make a difference in the lives of their members, as well as the communities they serve, according to insiders.

Obviously, said clubs are worth joining, if the advantages are there.

But what about the issue of "exclusivity"?

The guests noted that the clubs are not unlike those that exist in white communities or in any other ethnic group around the nation.

In addition to inclusion in prestigious organizations like those aforementioned, Blacks who seek a coveted spot in the upper reaches of the black community are required to meet other standards or "litmus tests" as well.

For starters, lineage is quite important.

For example - "Where your grandfather went to school" - is a contributing factor for "acceptance".

No riff raff, please!

In fact - when the subject turned to the issue of skin "tone" - the conversation got touchy on occasion.

In fact, a couple of McLaughlin's astute observations, appeared to rile the edgy guests.

For instance, when Lawrence Graham mentioned the "brown paper bag and ruler test", the pundit was given the old run-around when he sought to determine the origins of the "test".

Understandable - since the "test" created a "class" system within the Black community - according to critics.

Any Afro-American with skin "lighter" than a brown paper bag (and with hair as straight as a ruler) was accepted into the higher class - while those with distinctive negro features - were relegated to the lower strata.

Graham and Horton were adamant that white plantation owners created the test during a period when slavery was legal and prevalent in the south.

It was stated point-blank - as a matter-of-fact - that a light-skinned black was favored by slave owners for employment in the "main house" as service personnel to carry out menial chores.

For this reason, darker-skinned African Americans were relegated to the status of field workers - which ultimately - affected their standing in the community for decades to come.

Along with the trappings of "house" privilege - came spoils like education - for the lighter-skinned of the race.

As a result - this sector of the black community was able to "move up" - according to the scholars.

When McLaughlin suggested that the "class system" was perpetuated by the Black community itself, there was a heated debate on the issue.

At this juncture, the talk drifted to blacks who tried to "hide" their roots, to get ahead in what they perceived as a "white man's" world.

Graham noted that he knew one young man who took his College credit off his resume because it was known as a learning institution for black students. Then, he proceeded to slip into the community-at-large to "pass" himself off as white to strive for goals he thought were out of reach as a consequence of his skin color.

It reminded me of the Hollywood Movie - "Imitation of Life" - which starred film legend, Lana Turner (1959).

A socialite employs a black woman as a maid in her home.

When the daughter of the humble African American worker comes of age - and surmises her life as a "black" will be a stumbling block to her dreams - she runs away, lands a job in a nightclub as a dancer, then turns her back on her mother and her black heritage.

When the maid passes away, the mistress (Lana Turner) honors her wish for a dignified funeral service replete with horse-drawn carriage.

When the daughter hears of her mother's passing, she quietly stands on the edges of the gathering crowd in the street, to pay her respects as the procession passes by. Suddenly, she becomes so overcome with grief, that she spontaneously breaks through the mob and throws herself on the casket.

Whoa, what a powerful moment in the cinema!

I recall being all teary-eyed and emotional when the dramatic heart-wrenching scene sprang to life on the silver screen.

In spite of these Hollywood-style exceptions, the speakers were mindful of the fact that those who achieved elevated status and recognition in the black community were inclined to "give back" to the community with the express purpose of nurturing the culture along.

For this reason, Clarence Thomas (Supreme Court Justice) was chastised for not making any significant effort to "belong" to the Black Community or taking it upon himself to help others less-fortunate in his race.

Although the subject turned to those who "met" or "did not meet" the long-standing "brown paper bag and ruler test" - for some inexplicable reason (and in spite of the fact it was an obvious question) - no one chose to discuss Barack Obama's status in that regard.

Did the parties make a pact not to discuss the issue on-air prior to taping to avoid any controversy or bad press in the wake of such a pronouncement?

Curious, indeed.

In recent years, I've noticed that children playing in school yards and on busses around the nation - of all racial persuasion - appear to be comfortable in their skin.

Now that interracial marriages are accepted (and more the norm) I expect that somewhere down the rocky racially-charged-road - as the races intermix - there will be one distinct "skin color" on the planet.

As a result, racial conflicts will end.

I have a dream!



Lana Turner and Juanita Moore in "Imitation of Life"...

John Edwards...bows out of campaign race; heartfelt e-mail explains!

I was saddened to hear that John Edwards chose to end his campaign since I thought in my heart he was best man for the job!

Dear Julian,

You have stood with Elizabeth and me throughout this campaign. Your support has sustained us as we have traveled across this country.

Earlier today, I suspended my campaign for the Democratic nomination for the presidency. I made this announcement from where our journey began just over 12 months ago: New Orleans.

I began my presidential campaign in New Orleans to remind the country that all of us - as citizens and as a government - have a moral responsibility to each other, and what we do together matters.

Now, it's time for me to step aside so that history can blaze its path. We do not know who will take the final steps to the White House - but what we do know is that our Democratic Party will make history.

And, along the way, all of you who have been involved in this campaign and this movement for change and this cause, I am asking you to continue speaking out for those who have no voice, just as Elizabeth and I will continue to do.

We need you.

Do not turn away from the great struggles before us. Do not give up on the causes that we have fought for. Do not walk away from what's possible, because it's time for all of us - all of us together - to make the two Americas one.

We need you.

I hope you will take a few moments to listen to the video clip of my speech in New Orleans earlier this afternoon or to read it below.

In the meantime, Elizabeth and my family join me in thanking all of you for your support and for working so hard on my behalf. We are truly blessed to have such friends.

Thank you.

John Edwards
January 30, 2008

See Video speech below...

John Edwards...bows out of race for Presidency!

St. Francis Hotel...host to Kings and Queens. Sumptuous digs!

Prestigious St. Francis Hotel on Union Square!

 

If you're looking for a place to meet a friend or business associate downtown, why not under the clock?

For decades many locals and tourists have been doing just that.

Since it was first erected in the lobby of the San Francisco Hotel - the famed Magneta Grandfather clock has been the meeting place for an eclectic mix - celebrated artists, sons, dignitaries, friends, lovers, jet-set travelers, and the like.

The timepiece is an enduring symbol which was installed in 1907.

Unknown to most, the Hotel's Powell Street master clock controls all the others in the turn-of-the-century landmark, and is housed just inside the lobby off the entrance at Union Square in downtown San Francisco.

As I strolled through the luxurious lobby the other day, a Hotel Manager noted that in spite of the fact the St. Francis is relatively young (100 years), it is rich and abundant in history.
The Charles Crocker family first announced plans to build the Westin St. Francis in the early nineteen hundreds. Their grand vision was to transform the city of San Francisco into the "Paris of the West" and The Union Square Hotel was intended to be its towering flagship.

The luxury Hotel was designed by the architectural firm of Bliss & Faville and was originally built with two of its present wings.

After spending a whopping 2.5 million on the project, the Hotel doors opened on March 21 (1904). So many San Franciscans were anxious to gain entrance the first night that by seven o'clock that evening a line of carriages and automobiles stretched three blocks down the street in a snarl of traffic.

In fact - the hotel became so popular in such a short span of time - that within six months the owners announced plans to add a third wing, two floors of apartments, and a ballroom to accommodate the demand.

Unfortunately, in 1906 the hotel was gutted in a fire that took place after the earthquake of April 18. Shortly thereafter, the owners built a temporary replacement which became known as the "Little St. Francis" in Union Square.

But, by the end of 1907, the hotel had been reconstructed and was open to guests once again.
In 1972 a thirty-two story tower was built behind the Hotel on Union Square.

From the time of its initial construction, the St. Francis Hotel has been one of the most prestigious hotels in the West. Undoubtedly, that is the reason the upscale hostelry became a favorite with a handful of Hollywood actors and other celebrities inclined towards luxury trappings.

With that distinction, some notoriety arrived on the doorstep, as well.

In 1921, well-known actor - Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle - checked into a suite on the twelfth floor; shortly thereafter - the tragic death of a woman at a party he hosted - caused such a scandal that ended his career.

There is an account of the incident housed in a glass case in the lobby that is labeled - "A Historical Review of People vs. Arbuckle" - complete with a candid "mug shot".
The Hotel's posh banquet rooms and ritzy restaurants often hosted the chicest soiress in the enticing "city by the bay" which were often attended by the town's social elite.

Many U.S. Presidents, an Emperor of Japan, the Shah of Iran, the King of Malaysia, Douglas MacArthur, and celebrated novelists such as Ernest Hemingway have been among the notables who have checked into the lavish St. Francis Hotel over the years.

In 1935, the mural room opened featuring celebrated motifs of Persia and the Orient by well-known artist Albert Herter.

The restaurant inside was presided over by the legendary - but fussy - Chef Victor Hirtzler. And, for decades, tony guests lunched on exquisite cuisine once they had passed muster and were seated in hierarchical precedence by Swiss Maitre d' Ernest Gloor.

During the War - Suite 294 - was the headquarters for the USO. In that comfortable bank of rooms, nurses relaxed among friends and associates, penned letters, and exchanged memories.
In the forties, a contingent of world leaders and dignitaries descended on the Hotel in a bold-faced effort to form an organization with the aim of achieving peace around the Globe. Of course, those were the humble beginnings of the United Nations.

To this day, a masterful collection of Ansel Adams prints (commissioned by original owner Crocker) hang on view for delighted art enthusiasts to enjoy.

Carefully preserved artifacts are also on display in the main lobby for the curious to inspect at whim.

In one display case, for instance, there is an old beer coaster with an inscription bearing the quaint message - "Ask for your change in War stamps" - for instance.

In another, a route map drafted up for quick exits in the event of a "Black Out", hints at the perils of a bygone era.

At the same location, a framed flier which boasts quality rooms for the remarkable sum of $3.50, is a delight to take a gander at, too.

The St. Francis Hotel has been known for its beautiful suites; today, you'd pay considerably more than that, I expect.

Since its notable entrance on the world circuit, St. Francis has become the center of San Francisco's social, literary, and artistic life. And, of course, first choice for the elite who alight now and then in romantic San Francisco.

As I headed out the door, I spied a faded photograph of Al Jolson in a corner bookshelf, under an old news clip.

As I slipped my glasses on my snoz and read the tiny blurb beneath, I was startled to learn that the "Mammy" singer spent his last breath of life in the famed Hotel.
Ah, but what a way to go!

http://www.julian1st.wordpress.com

Hillary Clinton...wins Edsel, or maybe...

An oddball situation in Florida.

Just maybe, the muses are playing a cruel trick on wily Hillary, again.

Or, are the Gods just testing her mettle in new and uncanny ways, for some inexplicable reason?

Before the vote count got underway on Tuesday in the ole Sunshine State, Mrs. Clinton elected to take flight on the heels of her loss in South Carolina.

No doubt, she thought to herself, "There aren't any delegates to be had, so I may as well move on."

Focus where the spoils are, eh Hillary?

Lo and behold, when the votes were counted up, she ended up with "top tally". Even still, it was kind of a "no-win" win.

Mrs. Clinton appeared to win an Edsel, or at best, one with nothing under the hood.

What to do, without a "little engine that could"?

Well, pull the old Hillary switcheroo, of course!

She put on her party dress, and moseyed on in to FLA, and let out a Victory cry! In spite of the fact, it was a hollow one, indeed.

In response, Barack was there - like a bat out of hell - to rain on her parade, stomp his foot, and whine to all within earshot,

"She can't have it both ways."

Because she basically "boycotted" the region - gave it up for a loss - in the aftermath, Barack fumed that a claim of "Victory" was definitely a foul.

Bottom line, both sorry candidates ended up with a large goose egg.

Zilch!

And, ten lashes from the voters for being so petty about much ado about nothin'.

If the balloters thought the way Hillary and Obama did, who knows, maybe they would have been a "no-show" at the polling stations - stayed at home - instead.

How would the Dems like d'em apples - er - oranges, then?

Frankly, I find it rancorous - that to some - the residents of Florida don't amount to a hill of beans in the overall scheme of things in the presidential race.

While Hillary's appearance (all seven swift minutes of it) may have been over the top when she dropped in to snatch up her prize, the truth remains. Jetting in impromptu to "thank" the State's supporters - was not only the right "thing" to do - but the proper etiquette, as well.

To many, she probably scored high points for that.

But, of course, they don't count, or do they?

Don't residents of Florida have family and friends in other parts of the country, as well?

Yeah, you get my drift!

Hillary again, one conniving step ahead.

You've got to hand it to her; she's got smarts up the a**.

Barack in swim of things...

Cork...screw it in, whip it out, recycle!

I suppose after you settle in for a fine gourmet dinner and pop open a bottle of vintage wine, you simply toss the cork into the trash can, right?

Now, environmentalists are asking consumers to recycle the cork, for good reason.

Natural cork stoppers (unlike petroleum-based synthetic closures) are a sustainable resource and one of the few forms of product packaging that is 100% recyclable, biodegradable, and completely environmentally friendly.

After its life as a stopper, a bottle cork can be facilitated for flooring tiles, building insulation, automotive gaskets, craft materials, soil conditioner, and sports equipment.

Imagine that! A versatile little sucker, eh?

Because of a worldwide interest in sustainable agriculture and natural products like cork, an alliance of concerned businesses, individuals, and ecological organizations has been formed to address the opportunities to recycle nature cork closures.

Amorim & Irmaos of Portugal - the world's largest producer of natural cork wine closures (and their U.S. Sales office Amorim Cork America) - have joined forces with SOLV (an Oregon-based environmental action resource) to launch a national cork recycling program starting in Oregon.

Although cork trees can live over 200 years, the precious crop can only be harvested once every decade. On that occasion, only a portion of the bark is removed, and the still is left standing.

One of the reasons for environmentalists to be concerned?

Cork forests are essential in maintaining the delicate ecosystems of the Mediterranean because they impact weather patterns, soil health, wildlife habitat, C02 uptake, and help moderate overall global warning trends in certain regions.

So, for environmentalists, it makes sense to take action now.

In the final analysis, cork recycling is one step everyone can take to reduce the carbon signature unwittingly created during the course of our daily lives.

Known as ReCORK America, the program will begin by providing collection boxes in wineries and select retail locations in Oregon.

The program's goal is to collect one ton of corks by the end of September, 2008.

It takes approximately 100,000 champagne corks or nearly 300,000 wine corks to yield a ton (2,000 lbs.) of cork.

But, to make the drive work, corks are needed.

Consumers in the collection areas established as of this date, are asked to save their natural wine corks (no synthetics, please) then, periodically drop 'em off in the recycling boxes at participating wineries.

Can't wait?

Get in touch with the organizers and get plugged in, today!

contact: www.amorimcork.com

contact: www.amorimca.com

contact: www.solv.org

Los Angeles Times...prints old news, influence peddling?

The LA TIMES of yesteryear...news that was fit to print!


I was quite surprised when I picked up a copy of the LA Times today and noticed that the editors were reporting "old news".

On page one, journalists not only touted a "big lead" for presidential candidates - Hillary Clinton and John McCain - in one of their main features, but beefed up the report with a snazzy pie chart on page eighteen inside - with data strung together to reflect the alleged trend in the polls.

Buried down in the article, the newspaper casually noted in a mere line or two, that the data was gathered before the outcome announced in South Carolina on Saturday, January 26th - and prior to the "Kennedy" endorsement of Barack Obama (which was officially announced to the press on Monday, January 28th, 2008).

Curious!

The paper was quick to report on Bush's - "State of the Union" - speech just fresh off his lips last night.

In spite of the fact the polling data was all over the Network News on Saturday, January 26th (the eve of the Obama win) for some inexplicable reason, their writers were incapable of accurately "piecing together" a report of the "updated" trends as they stood at press deadline on Monday eve.

When you consider the fact their "old news" favored Hillary - at the expense of revealing Obama's obvious surge forward toward the throne over the weekend - you have to seriously wonder, is some influence peddling underfoot?

Saddam Hussein...60 Minutes interview. A public relations ploy by FBI?

George W. says good-bye to Saddam Hussein...

Saddam Hussein in happier days...






George Piro (FBI Agent)






In his last days, he tended a small garden he nurtured with his own hands, and penned prose.

The man in question? Saddam Hussein.

In fact, an FBI agent - George Piro - made some of these startling revelations about the deposed tyrant in an intriguing interview with 60 Minutes on CBS a few weeks ago.

According to Piro, he was assigned the task of interrogating the former Iraq leader, while he was under the custody of the U.S. Government.

The articulate likeable man was chosen because he was Lebanese and fluent in Arabic.

Ultimately, the brass at the intelligence agency, were betting on Hussein warming up to such an individual - at which point - they hoped the deposed leader's thoughts may become unloosed.

The aim was to secure all-important information previously undisclosed.

Allegedly, Saddam never knew his interrogator was an FBI Agent. In fact, Hussein thought Piro was answerable directly to George W. Bush.

From the offset, it was apparent that one of America's top law enforcement agencies, was playing a number of subtle mind games on a multitude of levels during the course of the interrogation process.

For instance, the agent noted that part of the strategy was to place Saddam in a seated position with his back to one wall, while the agent sat with his back against the only door to the cell where he was being housed.

"It was psychological," Piro proudly noted.

In sum, the scheme was hatched to impress upon Saddam that Piro was the one who stood between him and the outside world - in fact - held the keys to his freedom.

The FBI also devised a scheme to literally control Saddam's awareness of "time". For instance, none of the guards with access to Saddam were permitted to wear a timepiece.

In contrast, Piro wore the largest wristwatch they could find.

The scheme was devised to get the idea across to Saddam that his keeper controlled that, too.

A well-thought-out plan - and it worked - according to the agent.

In fact, over time, Saddam let slip a few of his innermost thoughts.

For example, during the course of the "relationship", Saddam showed no remorse about the loss of his sons. But more astounding, was the response he gave when questioned about one of the two who was accused of raping women.

"You can't pick your kids. You get what you get," he is alleged to have sighed.

During the course of the interviews, Saddam admitted that there were "no" weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Apparently, they had been destroyed earlier on, before the U.S. attack.

He noted that he concealed the fact to give the country a sense of security.

At this juncture, Hussein admitted part of the reason he engaged in the deception, was due to the fact he was "afraid of Iran".

Saddam's admission about the lack of weapons of mass destruction appears to support the allegation that Bush's administration clearly "lied" about the existence of said weapons.

When the interviewer asked why Saddam didn't fess up to prevent the U.S. onslaught, Piro alleged that Saddam confessed he didn't think Bush would invade Iraq.

Wrong!

By the way - he didn't like George Jr. - or his father!

He was unapologetic about using chemical warfare on the Kurds, too.

"Necessary," he asserted.

And the reason he invaded Kuwait?

"He was angered by comments a Kuwait Official made about turning Iraq women into ten-dollar prostitutes," said Piro.

Interestingly, Hussein said he wouldn't want to be in the same room with hunted fugitive - Osama Bin Laden - nor did he support the terrorist's actions.

His reason? "You can't trust fanatics."

The former dictator also noted that he found the American political system odd.

For instance, Hussein thought a four-year term in office was not long enough for a politician to get the lay of the land, so-to-speak.

"You're breaking in a new president every four years," he apparently joked.

Of course, this from the man who obtained all his information about the American democratic system, from Hollywood movies he viewed in a private screening room at one of his opulent Palaces.

Did he ever show anger in the presence of his captors?

"Just once, when he was shown footage of his statue being torn down from its pedestal".

On that occassion, Piro noted that Hussein's faced flushed and his eyes filled with hate.

On a humorous note, Piro noted that because Saddam's birthday was not being celebrated by anyone that year (the occasion used to be a National Holiday) he brought Hussein cookies baked by his mother!

When his Ma found out later who ravenously devoured 'em, she smartly slapped her son on the back of the head.

Well, that's the way the cookie crumbles, eh?

Interestingly, when Piro was asked if Saddam was ever tortured, he was quick and to the point.

"The FBI does not torture people".

In view of the recent news reports about the CIA, and allegations of illegal torture on the far reaches of foreign soil, that claim stretches one's credulity.

In fact, shortly after that steadfast pronouncement, Piro's superior at the FBI Headquarters noted on-camera that the Agency was celebrating their 100th Anniversary in 2008.

Ah, suddenly it hit me like a lightning bolt.

Now it all made sense: the pat answers, the rapid-fire responses without hesitation, the lack of footage to support Piro's claims.

I betcha the FBI was simply packaging up a neat and tidy account of things in a deceitful attempt to tie up all the loose ends to their advantage.

In the final analysis, their express aim appears to have been to dispel any doubts about Saddam Hussein.

Was the 60 minutes interview just a clever public relations ploy by the FBI - on the eve of their 100th anniversary - to enhance their image to Americans across the Nation?

I wonder.

http://www.julianayrs.com

San Francisco...police officers kill panhandler! They shoot horses, don't they?

Over the weekend, San Francisco Police Officers gunned down a panhandler, they allege lunged at them with a knife.

Obviously, from the news reports, it is apparent that the gentleman in question was suffering from serious mental problems and in dire need of medical help.

Was it not possible for the Officers to subdue the man by some other means - by stun gun, perhaps?

It seems like such a sad loss of life over a trivial matter, such as "begging" in the streets.

Maybe that is the new "modus operandi" for dealing with beggars these days on San Francisco's mean streets.

They shoot horses, don't they?


Let us be guided by charity and compassion...

Democrats...polarization of races, South Carolina!

The White guys love me, what can I say?



Bill Moyer joked on his talk show the other night that pundits were accusing Bill Clinton of putting a spotlight on the fact that Barack Obama is a black candidate...

"Are they saying that no one noticed before that Obama is Black? Come on," he lamented, somewhat flabberghasted.

Well, no matter how you look at it, the word appears to be out.

If African Americans were unaware of the fact before, they sure as heck know now.

For instance, yesterday - at last count in the South Carolina polls - 81% of the Black population sprung into action and voted for Obama.

In another sector of the community there, John Edwards allegedly garnered 47% of the white male vote.

In view of the trend, the analysts have declared there is an obvious polarization of the races, underway in the Presidential Race.

Come "Big Tuesday", we'll see the phenomenon in full swing.

Any predictions?

In view of the fact a large number of females (black and white) also voted for Obama in SC, it's a toss up, in my estimation!

See you at the polls!

Turn in the road...tide changes for Obama!

Quentin Tarantino...tantrum in Park, Utah. Give the man a break!

Embarrassing footage of Quentin Tarantino - cutting up on camera - has been circulating the tabloid gossip shows this past week.

Apparently, Quentin was schlepping along the street and minding his own business in Park, Utah - where the Sundance Film Festival is underway - when a cameraman dashed up with the intent of capturing the quirky director in his element.

Quentin stopped dead in his tracks when he spied the paparazzi - turned to him - then quipped, with an exasperated look on his face,

"What are you doing?"

When the photog failed to answer, an altercation ensued between the two.

Now, gossip mongers are using the incident to cast a negative light on Quentin Tarantino, and his reputation.

On more than one occasion, I've covered events that Tarentino attended and not only witnessed his behavior up-close, but also unobserved from afar....on the street, at a local movie house, wherever.

For the record, I can state quite emphatically, that Mr. Tarentino has always been generous to fans, usually stopping to sign an autograph or two.

Give the man a break, eh?

One has only to approach Quentin with a little courtesy, to land a memorable photo op, I assure you.

As to the clash in Utah, well, it was triggered by the inappropriate conduct of the dim-witted cameraman, in my estimation.

Julia Roberts put it succinctly when she noted,

“I don't think I realized that the cost of fame is that it's open season on every moment of your life.”

NBC...x-rated captions! What kind of shot?

Ever read those close captions that appear at the bottom of your new-fangled plasma TV?

Well, for some inexplicable reason, my focus turned away from the images the other night (some silly bozo must have sauntered onto the screen and distracted me for a second or two) and I noticed something was amiss...

Now and then, the translation was inclined to get twisted and mangled; subsequently, the end results were oftentimes hilarious - if not downright - disastrous.

For instance, when Dave Letterman announced that John Edwards would be appearing on the show the following evening, the Democrat's "John Hancock" was translated as "Swron Edwards". Maybe, the minions at NBC, were referring to his feminine side?

Guess not, because the glitches persisted.

On Jay Leno - the word "Okay" - was transformed into "Oh, Goldy". Jay's deep passionate feelings about a guest, slipped out, perhaps?

The Patriots were hailed as the "Theatriots" (in reference to the Superbowl's wild and wholly beer busts?), while the ever-present term on voters minds these days - the word "politics" - was transformed into a shorter form (for simplicity sake, I guess) to "polics". Maybe the producers were shooting for colonics?

But the one to beat the band (the "boys in the band", no doubt) was the one that made the hysterical reference to a "rim shot".

If you don't know what "rimming" is - just ask any gay man - and he'll enlighten you in graphic detail, no doubt.

I wonder, is some gremlin playing tricks on the late-night talk show hosts, or is the slip-up attributed to faulty translator oversight?

On the plus side, if you get bored with the show, you can always pretend you're Scientologist - Tom Cruise - and craft some clever phrases to go along with the mis-caps.

Now that's, risky business!

Democrats...squabbling turns off voters; Slick Willy gets bad press!

Can Hillary, the "nutcracker", keep "Wild Bill" in line?


Heading into the home stretch on the campaign trail, there has been a big flap over the contentious mean-spirited behavior of Democratic hopefuls, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. In fact, gentle slaps we witnessed earlier on in the bid for the Presidency, have turned into near lethal punches. No knock outs, yet, though.

On the Dave Letterman show - on a three-way split screen - Hillary accusingly pointed a finger at Obama and criticized him for his former "slum landlord ties", while Barack - not to be outdone - lamented that while he was trying to prevent jobs from going overseas, wily Hillary was on the payroll at Wal-Mart - reaping in questionable spoils.

Dave Letterman was squeezed into the middle panel, tossing this way 'n that, trying to act as referee and get a word in edge-wise. Hilarious skit!

Meanwhile, Slick Willy has been making the rounds on the campaign trail, much to the disgust of the pundits, the press, and many Americans.

In fact, some have labelled his actions "demeaning" and "disingenuous".

Yeah, he was grabbing the headlines alright, and casting a long shadow over Hillary's strident speeches to voters elsewhere in the country. Some argue that he is a clever conniver who is using the occasion to tout his own accomplishments in the White House!

In one ambush, as he strolled through a swarm of reporters, he stopped and accused the press of fanning the frenzied flames, exacerbating the race issue, and focusing on the dispute between himself and Hillary.

He then retorted, "Shame on you. Shame on you!"

Yeah Bill, you chastised 'em, after you put your own two cents worth in. If you felt that strongly about the issue, you would have walked on and simply uttered to all within earshot - "No Comment".

When Obama raised the issue of "Wild Bill" recklessly loose on the Nation, his hubby just shrugged and sighed, "That's him. Not me".

If she can't curb her pit bull now, what will it be like when they're back in the White House?

An operator on a Cable Car the other day joked to me, "Well, the Democrats may as well enjoy the party while it lasts. They're not going to win. All that squabbling between 'em. And, they're not even talking about the issues. Each wants to be a first. Hillary, the first woman president. Obama, the only Black man to make it into the Whitehouse."

Then, as he shifted the gears on the trolley, he cackled, "They wouldn't vote in the Jew. What makes 'em think they will vote in Obama?"

Strong words.

I wonder what a cross section of America thinks?

Obama gives Hillary a gesture!

Tetsuo...quote. Message for our times!

Zen Master Tetsuo once said,

"Be upright and honest, conscious of the principles of nature, compassionate and generous towards others, free from greed, contented. Carry out your everyday affairs correctly, without error. Take care of things without being attached to them."

Cable Cars...torrential rains cause brake malfunction, near fatality with pedestrian. San Francisco!

This morning - amid wild storms slamming the Bay area - I was waiting for a Cable Car in the Financial District, when I spied a utility truck towing one of the little darlings down the street to the repair yard, I guess.

As the torrential rains persisted, I stood under a stoop to shield myself from the wintry blast that descended upon San Francisco in the wee hours of dawn this morning.

In about five minutes, a second trolley approached, and I jumped on.

The car was packed with tourists and there was a lot of excited chit-chat about the inclement weather. And, of course, bearing witness to the broken-down cable car was cause for a few to tense up a little about the possibility of a second mishap.

As we approached Powell Street - the operator suddenly pulled on the brake - but it malfunctioned, causing the car to jerk unexpectedly and lurch forward.

To our great shock, the vehicle came to an abrupt, shaky halt, within inches of striking an elderly woman crossing the street!

The exasperated driver proceeded to struggle with the gears, to get us going, but to no avail.

As one passenger noted, "Rain and wood brakes on steel track, that's the problem."

At this juncture, it was obvious the trolley was disabled, so the driver was forced to radio in for assistance.

Meanwhile, the upset passengers exited the car in a state of disarray, and sought other avenues of travel.

Ironically, it was an accident many years ago which brought about the conception of the cable system, as we've come to know it.

The driving force behind the San Francisco cable car system was attributed to a man who witnessed a horrible accident on a damp summer day in 1869.

Andrew Smith Hallidie saw the toll slippery grades caused when the then, horse-drawn streetcars, slid backwards under their heavy load. On at least one occasion, the steep slope with wet cobblestones and a heavily weighted vehicle combined to drag five horses to their deaths. The incident triggered an idea.

Hallidie and his partners not only had the know-how to do something about the problem, but the wherewithal to meet the challenge.

You see, Hallidie's father held the first patent in Great Britain for the manufacture of wire-rope.

So, as a young man, Hallidie experimented and found uses for the technology in California's Gold Country. He used the wire-rope in a design for a suspension bridge across Sacramento's American River, for instance. He also facilitated the wire-rope to pull heavy ore cars out of the underground mines on tracks.

Clearly, the technology was in place for cable car use.

So, Hallidie acted on his vision, and developed it into a full-blown cable car railway system to deal with San Francisco's fearsome hills and unpredictable weather.

Now, if only some clever person could fathom a way to overcome the difficulties with the brakes in stormy weather, before some innocent bystander gets killed.

The Oscars...the envelope, please!

For me, the big event each year is the Oscar Celebration.

Allegedly, when a friend of studio employee first gazed upon the little golden statuette, she declared:

"That looks just like my Uncle Oscar."

The name stuck.

I always wanted to attend in person and experience all the glitz and glamour in the flesh.

But, I made myself a promise.

I'd never stroll the red carpet (or even slip in a side door) until I was a nominee.

Well, I can dream, can't I?

One year - I was booked on a modeling shoot for a fashion lay-out for Vancouver Magazine - when it came to my attention that the assignment was slated to shoot on the eve of the Oscar show.

What was a boy to do?

Should I cancel the job, or forgo on the Oscar celebration for one year?

Well, the big bucks beckoned, so I trundled off to the location to fulfill my career obligation.

As luck would have it - the Fashion Editor was an avid fan of the Oscars - too.

Consequently, I was able to sneak quick peaks of the gala festivities on the old boob tube in the green room, in-between "takes".

But what about this year's star extravaganza?

Word from Tinseltown is that the show goes forward in spite of the WGA strike.

However, a number of actors are reticent about crossing a picket line.

Tony Gilroy - a nominee for Best Director for "Michael Clayton" - noted for the record:

"I would never cross a picket line ever. I couldn't. I'm a 20-year member of the Writers Guild. I think whatever they work out is going to be one way or the other. But no, I could never cross a picket line. I think there are a lot of people who feel that way."

So, it begs the question.

In the true Hollywood tradition, will the show go on?

Fortunately, animated talks between the producers and the writers started up this week.

Now, actors are inclined to cross their fingers and pray to the "Gods" of Award Shows, that the evening's festivities will go off without a hitch.

In the event there is a go, here are some of the contenders to place your bets on.

Best picture nominees include "Atonement" (a love story gone awry), "Juno" (the tale of an unplanned pregnancy), "Michael Clayton" (a legal suspense thriller), "No Country for Old Men" (a favorite with an ending that "fizzled" out into oblivion), and "There will be Blood" (a period piece with a top-notch performance by Daniel Day Lewis).

"No Country for Old Men" and "There Will Be Blood" lead the Oscar race with eight Academy Awards nominations each.

In the male lead acting category, talented thespians include George Clooney (Michael Clayton), Johnny Depp (Sweeney Todd), Daniel-Day Lewis (There will Be Blood), Tommy Lee Jones (In the Valley of Elah), and Viggo Mortensen (Eastern Promises).

The bar for Best Actress was set pretty high due to stellar performances by the likes of Cate Blanchett (Elizabeth: The Golden Age), Julie Christie (Away from Her), Marion Cotillard (La Vie En Rose), Laura Linney (The Savages), and Ellen Page (Juno).

Best director should go to Julian Schnabel (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly), but other auteurs breathing down his neck for the coveted prize include Jason Reitman (Juno), Tony Gilroy (Michael Clayton), Joel & Ethan Coen (No Country for Old Men), and Paul Thomas Anderson (There will be blood).

The choices for animated film are Ratatouille, Persepolis, and Surf's Up.

The little rat chef will win, in my estimation.

Although Casey Affleck (The Assassination of Jesse James) was a first choice for best supporting actor earlier in the year, along came the release of "No Country for old Men" and the remarkable performance by Javier Bardem as a crazed bad guy.

Sorry, Casey, looks like the award is going that-a-way!

It is a toss up for Cate Blanchett for "I'm not there" and Amy Ryan in "Gone Baby Gone" for the supporting actress category, in my estimation.

Surprisingly, there were no nods this year for crowd-pleasers like Angelina Jolie, or Emile Hirsch (Into the Wild).

Sean Penn was also snubbed, despite a fine directorial stint (Into the Wild).

The whole scenario makes one scratch their head a little in wonderment.

After all, "Hairspray" - deserving at least one or two nominations in my opinion - was completely shut out.

At times, it appears that the Academy's taste, is up their wazoo.

Orson Welles once said:

“A film is never really good unless the camera is an eye in the head of a poet.”

Megan McCain...clumsy, tacky earrings, gotta go!

Daddy's little girl has been helping out at the campaign office.

Yes, John McCain's daughter - Megan - has been pitching in!

Unlike Chelsea, the pretty young blond has been inclined to spill the beans to the press. After all, a photo op is a photo op.

When asked about the competition's daughter, McCain gushed that she admired Ms. Chelsea because, "...she is so graceful and she never makes a misstep."

In fact, she is no enamored of the Clinton's No. 1 daughter that she said she would welcome any advice she was inclined to offer up.

Psssst!

In the event your ships pass don't pass in the night, take note...the clumsy, oversized earrings you wore at the campaign office the other day, have got to hit the dust. Think Ballroom, not sleazy local dive.

It may be wise to ditch the fur cap, too; if Animal Rights Activists get a peak at the label and determine it is bona fide fur, watch out! You'll be first on their endangered list.

By the way, the fluff on your blog - tips on make-up and notes about your favs on the pop charts - is sure to land the votes of a few airheads. But, why not use your moment in the sun - and momentary influence - to educate and enlighten your fellow youth?

Just asking!

Tom Brady...football stud gets "nookie", at last!

A frenzied pack of paparazzi camped outside of the apartment of top model - Gisele - the other night...and waited for Tom Brady (her hottie overnight guest) to exit the love nest.

Reporters noted it was a tough assignment; but, the coveted prize - titillating footage of Brady descending her stoop in the wee hours of dawn - was worth it.

There wasn't any taxi in sight, fortunately; with Brady's luck, it may have turned out to be the "Cash Cab". So, Brady was forced to walk a gauntlet down the street, as crazed photogs jockeyed for position, in a boisterous effort to land their best shot.

In view of the sheepish grin on his face, it was evident - as the old saying goes - he was "in" like Flynn! Must have been the posies that cinched it!

When the street newsie said - "back to you in the studio" - the anchorman chortled, "There is a fine line between reporting and stalking. I guess we just crossed it."

Not satisfied with that scoop, their news team proceeded to corner Brady's childhood dentist, to get the skinny on the origins of the pro star's dazzling million-dollar smile. Oh-my-God, the staff hauled out old photographs of Brady (chronicles of his bygone youth) - which not only exposed teeth that were crooked - but were toothy enough to require braces.

Imagine that smooch, in a moment of passion, ladies!

"So, I guess the smile is what landed the football star romantic flings with the likes of top models like Gisele," the reporter opined.

With a little grin, the doc responded that Brady, "...has a lot going for him".

I get your drift, doc. After all, everyone knows what a strong overbite means!

In recent days, sports fans - and the public alike - have been overwhelmed by the young stud.

Wonder how the late-night carousing will affect his - um - performance on the field?

Yeah, football is my favorite action sport. I mean, there's somethin' about all those lace up pouches, tight butts, and all that rough-housing and tackling...that resonates in a deep, homo-erotic way.

As to the the V-shaped torsos and the wide shoulders - well - from the looks of those poetic silhouettes in motion on the field, they're virile macho guys, alright.

But what's with all the hugging, and the butt slapping, and tom-foolery in the locker room?

Male bonding? Ah, a tribal ritual - I guess.

Athletes like Beckham and Brady are pretty much a unique sports breed. And, they've got the big bucks, to prove it.

Bottom line, they're highly-skilled warriors (action thrillers), with a dynamite dose of sex appeal thrown into the mix.

Looks like you snared one, Giselle.

Play ball!

Sisters Of Mercy..This Corrosion

Bret Michaels...a real breast man, if he can find one!

When Conan called out the name - Bret Michaels - there were a number of wild hoots and hollers from the studio audience.

The front man for "Poison", swaggered out from behind the curtain, sexily clad in a black "T" - etched with ominous skulls - a pretty, multi-colored bandana, and tight ratty jeans showing off package.

The affable talk show host was revved up and ready to get down to the nitty-gritty.

"So, what kind of woman are you into," Conan probed, or something to that effect.

In the brief moment that Bret hesitated, Conan was all over him like a dirty shirt, "I mean, like, are you a breast man, or what?"

The audience roared at his indiscretion. Bret was quick on the uptake, though.

"A breast man, definitely."

My jaw dropped when Conan went where no talk show host has boldly gone before.

"You like 'em big, or what?"

Bret laughed and noted that it didn't matter.

"That can be fixed," he noted with a sort-of cheshire grin on his face.

Then, he went on to note that he has not squeezed a real breast in a very long time. The audience went into hysterics.

Yeah, men are pretty much "visual" when it comes to sex.

Me?

I'm into blue jeans, especially the faded, snugly-fit kind. Where they've been worn in at the butt, the crotch, the legs...can conjure up so many erotic fantasies, such a turn on!

Woody Allen once said,
"Sex without love is an empty experience, but as empty experiences go, it's a pretty good one."

Rooftop Gardens...greening of America!

If you look sky high, you'll notice a curious trend...rooftops are turning green!

And, for good reason.

In addition to adding a welcome touch of Mother Nature to the concrete cityscape, installing a garden on the top of city buildings has a number of practical purposes, too.

Green Roofs serve as sponges, to absorb run-off water, and lessen the impact of severe storms that otherwise may cause damage to the local environs, hasten sewers to overflow - and hence - pollute the environment.

When properly designed, green additions are capable of cooling structures and the surrounding neighborhoods, by the process of evapotranspiration; the key way plants absorb water through their root system and evaporate it through their leaves.

Not only do green roofs lower temperatures in the summer, but they also insulate in the winter. On average, extensive green roofs provide twenty-five percent more insulation than a regular roof, while heat loss due to wind can be reduced by fifty percent.

In addition, the gardens filter pollutants from the air, and offer up opportunities for food production, as well.

Credit is given to the Germans who began the "roof greening movement" in the late 70's and 80's, according to an organization - "Green Roofs for Healthy Cities" - which is headed up by Steven Peck (President of the Toronto-based nonprofit trade organization). The innovative idea soon spread throughout Europe, and naturally, on to the United States.

On these shores, Leslie Hoffman, President of New York based environment group - "Earth Pledge" - made it her mission to spread the green news after she planted one garden in Manhattan and saw the benefits of the exciting futuristic concept.

"There's all this wasted space on city rooftops that can be like small oases. They can help with storm water management and the urban heat island effect, or serve as places to garden. Such a big idea, complex in its variety of benefits."

Bio-diversity in living roof designs is all the rage, today.

In fact, allegedly, Switzerland has just passed a bylaw which states that new buildings must green twenty percent of their rooftops and be designed utmost and foremost to relocate the green space covered by the building's footprint (including existing buildings and those historical in nature).

On the heels of the research, there has been an increased demand for material/product design, which will soon be available to North American markets.

As green roofs spread, the overall effect may help mitigate global warming. By reducing the urban heat island effect, the carbon footprint of energy used for air conditioning, for instance, will be lessened.

Architectural specialist, Jane Jacobs, put it all into perspective in a recent interview on the subject,

"In its need for variety and acceptance of randomness, a flourishing natural ecosystem is more like a city than a plantation. Perhaps it will be the city that reawakens our understanding and appreciation of nature, in all its teeming, unpredictable complexity."

Aldo Leopold, quote:

"We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect."

Mitt Romney...the question pundits have neglected to ask!

It suddenly dawned on me last night that the pundits have apparently overlooked one vital issue in respect to Mitt Romney and his run for president.

If the Mormon Presidential hopeful wins the 2008 election, how many 1st ladies will there be in the White House?

Harvey Milk...Film biography shooting in San Francisco. A call for 70's-style extras!

At first, when I spied the scaffolding strategically-placed around the Castro Theatre, I thought the "old lady" - the architectural beauty from the Art Deco era - was getting a face lift.
Workers on the job informed me that renovations were underway to accommodate a film production company who booked the premises for a location shoot.

According to sources, Director Gus Van Sant was in town to commence shooting on the screen biography of the tragic life of Harvey Milk, who was murdered by co-worker, Dan White.

Sean Penn will play Milk.

Other cast members include Josh Brolin who was spotted in the streets of San Francisco sporting a period three-piece suit and a signature page-boy haircut reminiscent of White's.

As the crew attempted to turn back the clock in various locales about the city, producers were putting out a call for locals to sign up to play "extras" for a key scene that will reenact a real-life protest rally which broke out in the turbulent streets of San Francisco in the wake of Milk's untimely death.

Harvey Milk was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 1977 and was the first openly-gay elected official of any large city in the United States.

On a National level, Milk was one of three officials in public office, who chose to be "out" to their constituents.

Kathy Kozachenko and Elaine Noble were the other two.

Milk represented District 5 of San Francisco (which included Castro's predominantly gay neighborhood) until his term was cut short at the murderous hands of Dan White on November 27 (1978) at City Hall.

Prior to that fateful day, Dan White resigned from the Board of Supervisors over a gay rights bill he opposed.

Because Moscone was vested with the power to choose Dan White's successor, it became evident to his opponents, that Moscone would be able to tip the Board's balance of power in his favor on political and social issues if he was so inclined.

In view of this, a handful of politicians supporting the city's conservative agenda (Senator Dianne Feinstein included) talked White into changing his mind.

Subsequently, White did an about-face and asked Moscone to re-appoint him to his former seat.

Allegedly, Moscone indicated a willingness to do so; but later - along with a handful of liberal city leaders - ended up lobbying against the idea.

Ultimately, Harvey Milk decided not to re-appoint White.

Angered by the decision, the former City Supervisor crawled through a basement window of the building to avoid metal detectors on that fateful day in November, and proceeded to carry out his pre-meditated plans to murder Milk.

White intended to meet with Moscone to make a final desperate plea for a re-appointment. But, when Moscone refused to carry out his wishes, irate White shot Moscone to death in cold blood, instead.


Then, he marched into Milk's office and killed him point-blank, as well.

Milk appeared to have a premonition about his death.



In fact, it has been reported that the thought of an assassination attempt continually haunted the politician during his years in public life.

In a political will (marked "read in the event of my assassination") he wrote:

"If a bullet should enter my brain, let that bullet destroy every closet door."

White was convicted of two counts of voluntary manslaughter and sent to prison for seven years and eight months.

On the heels of the sentencing, word about the travesty of justice ran through the gay community, prompting many groups to start walking to the Civic Center.

By 8:00 p.m. that evening, a sizable crowd had gathered.

According to the documentary - "The Times of Harvey Milk" - the enraged crowd screamed at police officers and called for revenge - and ultimately - Milk's death.

Then, angry mobs proceeded to torch police vehicles, disrupt traffic, and vandalize public property.

The overhead wires of busses were also ripped down.

When physical violence broke out against the out-numbered police officers, many of the distraught rioters were arrested.

The Chief of Police, Charles Gain, was blamed for being too weak in his response, and holding back his officers at a time when many felt they should have been defending lives and property.

In defense, Gain pointed out that at least no one was dead, and that only a few suffered minor injuries.

In fact, one-hundred-and-sixty people were hospitalized.

White's remarkably light sentence was granted in response to what is now referred to as the "twinkie defense".

At the trial, White's attorney argued that the defendant could not be held accountable for his actions due to the fact he had eaten excessive amounts of junk food on the day of the crimes which had adversely affected his mental and emotional stability and reasoning faculties.

White was paroled after six years in prison and committed suicide shortly thereafter.

Understandably, Milk's untimely death impacted a multitude of individuals, right from the get-go.

In the year following his death, 100,000 people marched on the Nation's capitol in support of Gay civil rights, wildly chanting "Harvey Milk Lives".

In essence, they were carrying the torch for a man they had come to deeply respect and love.

After all, his accomplishments were many.

For instance, in his eleven months as a Supervisor, he sponsored a gay rights bill for the City of San Francisco.

Milk also instituted the infamous pooper-scooper ordinance which required animal owners to "pick up" after their pets.

The visionary politician was also instrumental in defeating Proposition 6 - known as "The Briggs Initiative" - which would have allowed openly gay men and lesbian teachers to be fired based on their sexuality.

With Gus Van Sant's deft directing hands at the wheel, I expect no stone will be left unturned in this much-anticipated screen bio.

The award-winning auteur will undoubtedly turn out a gripping account of the shocking events in a manner that is sure to touche the hearts and minds of filmgoers.

Can't wait to screen it, can you?

Safeway...San Francisco grocer, wins the "Nasty Toilet Award"!

Occasionally - when out shopping for produce and other food stuffs - it's wholly possible you may need to relieve yourself in the restroom.

If you're pushing a cart at Safeway - at Church and Market in San Francisco - pass!

At a time when people are concerned about staph infections and overall "cleanliness", it shocks the sensibilities to take a jaunt into their restroom and encounter the disgusting filth there!

For starters, the walls are scrawled with graffiti, and appear to have been neglected for years. How much is a coat of paint for a company like Safeway that racks in the big bucks daily?

Meanwhile, the walls and floors are downright creepy-crawly; I shudder to think with what!

The mirrors are marred with grime, and the fixtures are so hair-ridden, it's no wonder customers are afraid to put precious hand to metal to "flush".

Safeway, you get the "Nasty Toilet Award", of the year!

And, you've lost a few loyal customers, in the wake of it.

Bill Clinton...dozes off during speech!

Oh my, didn't get enough winks, I guess...


During a speech about Martin Luther King, Jr., Bill Clinton slumped to one side in his chair and dozed off for a couple of minutes.

I guess, he was either bored with the speech or trying to "realize the dream".

Ronald Reagan...political contributions, according to pundits!

On a talk show this past week, when Ronald Reagan's name popped up in the conversation, Tom Brokaw noted that the former president made a distinct contribution with regard to party lines.

"He created a new class of voters...the Republican-Democrat," the newsman laughed.

Uta Hagen...Respect for Acting!

Occasionally, I stumble across a book I read voraciously in the past - and when that happens - it's like running into an old friend.

Such was the case with "RESPECT FOR ACTING", written by seasoned actress, Uta Hagen.

When it comes to acting tips hers are bang-on - and ultimately - amount to a "Bible" for actors.

According to Ms. Hagen, there are two kinds of actors: the representational and the presentational.

The representational actor deliberately chooses to imitate the character's behavior.

In contrast, the presentational actor reveals human behavior through a use of himself, through an understanding of himself - and consequently - through an understanding of the character he or she is portraying.

The representational performer finds a form - based on an objective result for a character - then carefully proceeds to execute it.

The presentational actor, on the other hand, trusts that a form will result from an identification with the character and works on stage for a moment-to-moment subjective experience to realize it.

In her opinion, formalized external acting (representational) has a tendency to follow fashion.

But, an internal performance rejects fashion - and consequently - can become as timeless as human experience itself.

Gee, wish I'd said that.

A lot is said about emoting and the fourth wall (about whether to speak directly to the audience or not).

In addition, Ms. Hagen provides tips on how to deal with "emotion" when developing aspects of the character.

As an example, Ms. Hagan notes that actors often contend that they "lost themselves" in a role - to effect realism - let's say.

Ms. Hagan assures the insightful actor that it is much better - and more rewarding - to avoid grandstanding and techniques that amount to "showing off".

She asserts that competent actors without concern for outer form - or as she refers to it - "without pyrotechnics or personal sale" - are then able to deliver up a more believable performance that resonates with truth.

But, there is more work to do.

"Once we are on the track of self-discovery in terms of an enlargement of our sense of identity, and we now try to apply this knowledge to an identification with the character in the play, we must make this transference, this finding of the character within ourselves, through a continuing and over-lapping series of substitutions from our own experiences and remembrances through the use of imaginative extension of realities, and put them in the place of the fiction in the play.

There is some focus on emotional memory or recall, as well, in the self-help book.

The process of "emotional recall" is used as a sort-of trigger.

In fact, Hagan contends that a substitution is the smart way to go to dredge up emotion, start a rush of tears, whatever.

To many, "Emotional memory" means "sense memory", notes Hagan.

But, according to the celebrated acting coach, the two as different.

Emotional memory is the psychological link or emotional response to an event which produces the desired effect - sobbing, laughter, - whatever.

On the other hand, sense memory - or the physiological - refers to sensations of hunger, cold, pain, etc.

All techniques are utilized in the service of the play or to bring about a true revelation about the character on stage without gimmicks or self-indulgence at play.

"Respect for Acting" is packed with solid advice on how to prepare for a role, in addition to, wide-ranging rehearsal techniques.

The exercise are geared towards piecing together a believable, in-depth characterization, that will ring true to the audience.

Ms. Hagan, was a respected actress who was known for classical roles she played in Chekhov's - "The Seagull" - and for her stellar performances on stage with the legendary "Lunts" which received widespread acclaim.

Brooks Atkinson noted that Uta Hagen's book - "Respect for Acting" - is not only pitched on a high artistic level - but,

"It is full of homely practical information by a superb craftswoman."

In sum, Respect for Acting is an illuminating discussion on the standards and techniques of enlightened stage acting.

Pick it up and thumb through the pages, you'll be glad you did.

Grace Cathedral...San Francisco's House of Worship!

As I wandered into Huntington Park at dawn at the top of Nob Hill, the sun strained against the horizon, casting long strands of gold and purple across the early morning sky.

Then, a still breeze rustled leaves in the trees, as a flock of excited birds flew directly overhead, and alighted nearby.

Before me, the "Fountain of Tortoises", hinted at a bygone era of romance and elegance.

The decorative sculpture is a copy of "La Fontana Delle Tartarughe", originally set as a centerpiece in the Piazza Mattei, Rome. The original was designed in 1581 by Giacomo della Porta, with sculpted bronze figures crafted by Taddeo Landini.

Pope Alexander VII commissioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini to restore the fountain in 1658-1659. As a result, the featured dolphins fell into oblivion, and were summarily replaced with struggling tortoises, instead.

William and Ethel Crocker donated a replica of the original which was installed at Huntington Park after gracing their garden for a number of years.

The Angels appear ready to herald a new dawn.

To my right, a few seniors (mostly Asian) arched their backs gracefully for a moment. Then, each torso half turned - as if to defy gravity - as arms and legs seemingly "pulled" and "pushed" the still air, in a surreal fashion.

I was captivated by their serene faces and the inner glow which appeared to emanate from within the very core of their mortal coils.

Ah, the ancient practice of Tai Chi. And, the inner smile revealing itself, in a Divine moment.

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the lush finely-manicured park, a rag-tag band of exercise enthusiasts plied their limbs, and focused on the task at hand.

I silently turned on my heel and headed in the direction of Grace Cathedral (across the street) to attend morning service.

The Cathedral is a descendant of the original Church built in the Gold rush year of 1849 - destroyed in the 1908 earthquake - which was rebuilt on property donated by the Crocker Family.

At Grace, there is not only a keen awareness of the spiritual, but also a forward-thinking philosophy about the "oneness" (unity) of all things.

Inside, near the font, a statue of St. Francis stands with arms out-stretched... seemingly capturing the lofty ideal that Grace Cathedral is, "A House of Prayer for all people".

For starters, the Church is an inner space that resonates with spirit - a perfect respite from it all in the pursuit of prayer - provides an opportunity for insightful contemplation about the wondrous mysteries of life.

In addition, there are a number of exquisite religious artifacts to view.

The "Doors of Paradise", for instance, which were created by Florentine sculptor Lorenze Ghiberti; fashioned for the Baptistery of a Florence Cathedral. Their shimmering gold surfaces beckon the pilgrim up the great stairway to look in awe at the intricately sculpted and nearly three-dimensional panels.

Ghiberti was one of the first artists to apply relief and linear perspective on such a grand scale. Indeed, Grace Cathedral's "Doors of Paradise" tower at 16 feet, while each door weighs one and a third tons.

Ghiberti chose ten familiar narratives as subjects for the main panels, taken from the first books of the Bible, ranging from Genesis to Kings. Each panel contains several scenes from each story, shaped not only by the text and by Christian interpretation, but also by commentaries of the early church fathers and even by contemporary events.

The border panels display Old Testament figures related to, or commenting on, the adjacent main panels, accompanied by busts done in a similar vein. Around the busts are lifelike sprigs of vegetation and bouquets of flowers, inhabited here and there by frogs, crickets and lizards.

In the first panel, the tale of Adam and Eve is featured...their creation, temptation, fall and expulsion. The panel is notable for the "cosmic egg" design of the sublime creation of Eve scene at center and for the poignant backward glance of Eve, outside the gate of Eden.

On the other hand, some allege the adjacent "Cain and Abel" panel is even more powerful, contrasting quiet pastoral scenes with Cain's murder of the favored Abel, and the guilty Cain questioning God, "Am I my brother's keeper?"

The Gothic-style rocky crags seem to echo Cain's violence.

It is worthy of a pilgrimage to Grace to explore the historical piece up close.

In that event, the casual visitor will be able to marvel at some of the other breathtaking works of art such as: the exquisitely executed stained-glass windows throughout the Cathedral (particularly those by the French Loire studios and Charles Counick, depicting such modern figures as Thurgood Marshall, Robert Frost, and Albert Einstein) the stunning murals completed in the 1940's by Polish artist John de Rosen; and the 44-bell carillon.

Along with its mystical ambiance, Grace lifts spirits with regular services throughout the week, along with inspiring musical performances (including organ recitals on most Sundays).

Grace's male choir has gloriously engaged in song since their inception in 1906, but a boys choir was not added until 1913. The centuries-old tradition of men and boys choirs has since blossomed here and there around the country at other Churches.

The Grace choir is composed of 14 choir men and 21 choristers who have long-standing ties with the community; the boys of the choir are students at the Cathedral School for Boys, for instance, while the men are a professional San Francisco ensemble.

The Cathedral Camerata is a mixed voice ensemble that sings a diverse repertoire of chant, Renaissance, and Baroque mottes and anthems and newly composed sacred works.

A unique attraction is the Labyrinth.

What is Labyrinth?

The sacred "curiosity" is an archetype of a divine imprint found in many religious traditions in various forms around the globe. By walking the labyrinth, an individual discovers, "...a long forgotten mystical tradition insisting to be reborn," according to the insightful Rv. Dr. Lauren Artress.

Labyrinths entered "Christian Prayer life" during the Middle Ages after they were incorporated into cathedrals around Europe.

The "Medieval Eleven Circuit Labyrinth" is replicated on the floor of the Chartes Cathedral where it was placed in 1201.

People around the world use the Labyrinth today to quiet the mind, find balance, and encourage meditation, insight, and a celebration of life.

The "Grace After Hours" program provides the opportunity to walk the labyrinth and learn about its history, in addition to facilitating it as a spiritual tool, as well.

Before departing from the Lord's House, slip into the AIDS Interfaith Chapel.

The Chapel opened its doors for the first time on December 1st, 1995, after the bell tolled at Grace Cathedral in Honor of "World AIDS Day".

The Chapel is a memorial for those who died from AIDS.

Now, the sacred altar here is a place of meditation and healing and remembrance for caregivers and those still fighting the disease.

Throughout the ages, stories of each community have been told through their house of worship...by virtue of artifacts, stained Glass, sermons, and a myriad of activities.

San Francisco's chapter in the "AIDS" epidemic is recalled through the auspices of the Interfaith Chapel.

The Chapel envelopes those who come to pay their respects and proudly displays who San Francisco is as a community ... compassionate, embracing, concerned.

The Interfaith addition was made a reality due to the persistent fundraising efforts of community members, local celebrities, and politicians alike.

Inside, there is a stunning altarpiece, a triptych of the Life of Christ.

Pop Artist Keith Haren started fresh, spontaneously carving into clay. The talented visionary used bronze and white gold patina for the original castings.

In a center panel is the Christ child, cradled by a number of arms below a radiant heart; above, a shower of tears with Christ on a cross above.

On the right panel, figures are ascending to heaven; on the left, there is a fallen angel.

The Interfaith Chapel is a sacred place where generosity of spirit prevails.

According to critics, the Harin piece is a masterful work that is accessible and speaks to many people.

The "Book of Remembrance" is a handmade book that is preserved under glass. Within its precious pages, the names of people who have died of AIDS are inscribed individually by a calligrapher, with the dates of their birth and death.

The book serves as a testament to the loss shared by the community.

Finally, on a top note, it should be noted that since 1995, Grace Cathedral has engaged in conversations with renowned authorities from the world of politics, activism, spirituality and the arts through their program - the Forum - which podcasts each Sunday morning 9:30-10:30 a.m. (except for holidays)

A few months ago, I caught vampire writer Anne Rice, discussing her new book on the "Childhood" of Jesus Christ. On the occasion of that intriguing appearance, she noted that she - henceforth - intended to devote her writing gifts to "God".

Well, after a visit to Grace Cathedral, most are inclined to do that, the experience is so spiritually overwhelming and uplifting.