Popcorn in My Bra: " Love, Peace and Soul"

Whitney Houston: 1963-2012

2012-02-12T13:58:00.004-06:00

Okay, big confession. Being a rock and roll girl, Whitney Houston's music never did much for me. Yet, like a lot of other people, I was saddened and shocked to hear of her passing. Perhaps, her R & B-infused pop wasn't my musical cup of tea but there was no denying her beautiful voice and her immense talent. Yes, I know in her latter years, Ms. Houston was known for her drug issues, her troubled marriage to Bobby Brown and her struggles to make a comeback. But let's not forget her musical legacy. And I don't think anyone sang the National Anthem as powerfully as Whitney Houston.

Even More Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights

2012-02-12T13:36:00.004-06:00

Two upcoming Milwaukee events celebrating the enduring legacy of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird written by yours truly for Third Coast Digest.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights

2012-02-03T14:31:00.004-06:00

Third Coast Digest has published my review of Amy Elliott Bragg's book Hidden History of Detroit. Enjoy!

Because Every Other Blogger Does It

2012-02-02T12:28:00.003-06:00

Nothing in my life is ever stagnant. Either I'm super busy like I was back in December with the holidays, or things screech to a halt and I don't have much to do such as it was last month. But things are starting to kick up a notch, and I'm going to have a very busy February.

I currently working at an assisted living community in its corporate department. I'm happy to be back working, and I'm busy with various projects. I also like my co-workers. Everyone is so friendly and helpful.

Earlier this morning I had a meeting with my editor, Dan, at Third Coast Digest to discuss various writing projects. We came up with some good story ideas and these will also keep me busy for the next few weeks. Also, I should have a book review published at TCD shortly. I'll keep you posted.

I'm also working on some writing projects for my alma mater. I'm writing profiles of various alums, which get published in the college's alumanae digital newsletter. I've interviewed some amazing people, which makes me quite proud of my alma mater.

In the end, I hope to re-surface sometime in early March (though by then I'll also be working on a big story for TCD). I do have some things I want to post at this blog, so I appreciate your patience.

And because it needs to be said, RIP Don Cornelius.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2012-01-21T14:08:00.006-06:00

I truly did not see this coming. Seal and Heidi Klum are getting a divorce. The reason? Irreconcilable differences per usual.

Did anyone watch the debut of this season’s American Idol? (crickets chirping) Well, if you didn’t you’re not alone. Idol’s ratings are down.

Jon Stewart snarks on Newt Gingrich’s desire for an “open marriage”-and other political funny stuff. And I’m not the only one who things Newt Gingrich looks like the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man.

To cleanse the palate, enjoy the soul stylings of President Barack Obama. Reverend Al Green approves this message!

RIP Etta James. Perfection. Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, on Etta James via her Facebook page, “Etta James was one of the great soul singers of our generation. An American original! I loved "Pushover," "At Last" and almost any and everything she recorded!!! When Etta SUNG, you heard it!”

Make Shit Yourself: Homemade Chicken Stock

2012-01-14T09:53:00.005-06:00

Milwaukee is experiencing some sub-freezing temps and we just got our first substantial amount of snow. It's a great time for soup, especially chicken soup. And you don't have to buy chicken stock from the store. Make it yourself!

This post is dedicated to my mom who still makes the best chicken soup ever!

Homemade Chicken Stock

1) Place leftover chicken parts (I usually save my left over pieces and bones from my roast chicken) into a large pot. Cover the chicken parts with water, usually around 10 cups or so.

2) Add a peeled onion (white or yellow) cut into half. Add two carrots cut in half and also add to ribs of celery cut in half. Add any saved vegetable trimmings you have on hand.

3) Add salt and pepper to taste.

4) Bring the water to a boil on high heat. Lower the heat and let simmer on the stove top covered for around 1-2 hours. At various times, check the stock, add water if needed and spoon off excess foam.

5) Once the stock is cooked, remove the chicken parts and put into the bowl. You can save the meat for the chicken soup or other recipes. Throw out the vegetables or compost. Ladle the stock through a strainer.

6) Refrigerate the stock for a few hours. Skin the fat off the surface.

7) Freeze or refrigerate the stock in 1-2 cup batches in airtight containers. If refrigerated, the stock will keep for about 2 days. If frozen, the stock should keep for about 2 months. I usually freeze my stock and then defrost when needed.

Of course, you can add various spices and herbs to the stock to give your stock various flavors. I've been known to add a bit of cayenne pepper to mine at various times. The extra "heat" is great when you're suffering a cold. I've also added a bay leaf or two when available.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-12-20T10:39:00.002-06:00

That’s it, Glee. I’m done with you.

Does your kids’ Xmas list total up to $130,000? Suri Cruise’s Xmas list does. Dear Tomcat, it wouldn’t hurt if you bought Suri some stickers, construction paper and crayons from the dollar store. She’ll survive, and she might not end up being a total brat.

Entertainment Weekly gives us the worst hair on TV and in the movies. Believe it or not but a mullet is not among them.

The always modestly dressed Lady Gaga is named “Entertainer of the Year” by the Associated Press.

Salon examines the death of the knowledgeable sales clerk in the age of Netflix, Amazon and iTunes.

WTF Files: Duggars Have Obituary and Memorial Service for Miscarried Fetus

2011-12-14T09:04:00.010-06:00

As many of you know, a few weeks ago the very fertile Duggars announced they were expecting their twentieth child. Not surprisingly, there was plenty of commentary regarding the blessed event, especially on the Internet, some of it supportive and some of it snarky (guess which camp I fell into).

Sadly, Michelle Duggar had a miscarriage. I may be an evil childfree feminist, but I do have the ability to be compassionate. I know a miscarriage can be hugely devastating. And though I think Ma and Pa Duggar should concentrate on the 19 kids they already have before making anymore babies, I would never deny them their grief.

However, I will deny the Duggars their famewhore ways. First, today the Duggars are holding a memorial service for the miscarried baby they were going to call Jubilee Shalom. I know people deal with their grief in different ways but a memorial service for someone who was never born and never contributed to society just seems wrong. The Duggars claim the service is just for family and close friends but I wouldn't be surprised if it was filmed for TLC. Remember, this is a family who has exploited their kids for fame and profit for several years.

And in further WTF-ness, the Duggars have published an obituary for Jubilee Shalom in the local paper. Once again, this seems way over-the-top, and the theatrics are rather off-putting. Like I mentioned I empathize with their grief, but making this family tragedy into some kind of showpiece makes me a wee bit sick in the stomach. Have the Jim Bob and Michelle put this much effort into helping their youngest child Josie who was born prematurely and has several health issues?

Once again, WTF?

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights

2011-12-12T14:12:00.001-06:00

My article about the upcoming redevelopment of Milwaukee's East Library (which is in my neighborhood) was published today at Third Coast Digest.

Book Review: Simply Green-Giving by Danny Seo

2011-12-09T12:35:00.002-06:00

I’ve been a big fan of crafter Danny Seo ever since I saw him on Wendy Russell’s late crafting show She’s Crafty. But the delightful Danny is more than just a crafter; he’s thrifty and devoted to the environment He’s also utterly charming and cute as can be.

Being a fan of Danny’s I was pretty thrilled to find Danny’s book Simply Green: Giving at my local library. I quickly checked it out, hoping to get some good advice.
This slim volume tells you simple tricks you can use to give your holiday gifts (or any gifts really) an extra punch. Have extra VHS tapes around? Take apart the cartridge, pull out the tape and use the tape for curling ribbon. Who knew those taped episodes of Friends would come so handy?

One idea I really like was personalizing homemade soap using Scrabble tiles or those old poetry magnets and using them as gift tags. Further bonus: These gift tags are also functional. Of course, anyone familiar with my soap making process is not surprised by this.

Another great idea I liked. Turning a used potato chip bag inside out and using it as wrapping paper. This works best when the inside is silver, and it’s probably a good idea if the bag has been properly washed of potato chip grease. Nobody wants potato chip grease on their gift. However, this does give you a good excuse to eat more potato chips.

Seo also offers suggestions using vintage greeting cards, watch faces, old work shirts, wooden boxes, natural box fillers (including actual peanuts, not the foam kind), old hardback books, terra cotta blooming boxes and even leaves and grass you find in your backyard! Before you throw something in the garbage or recycling bin ask yourself, “Hmm, can I found another use for this?” Yes, I bet you can!

As I read Simply Green: Giving I found myself thinking of other things I could use to wrap and hold gifts. I found some paper grocery bags I could use as wrapping paper. And some cute postcards I have of Parisian scenes would make great gift tags. Seo is a crafter that inspires rather than intimidates.

This book also has a section on actual gift giving using handmade know-how that is both charming and thoughtful, and will please the many people on your gift list. These tips are also inspirational, and will make you think of gift giving in a whole new way that is economical, green and yes, very crafty.

Simply Green: Giving is divided into four sections, which include Cards and Tags, Boxes, Gift Wrap and Bows and Handmade Giving. This book is written on recycled paper (no surprise there). And the various resources Seo provides at the end of the book are a lovely added bonus.

Simply Green: Giving is a great addition to any crafter’s repertoire, and it also makes a great stocking stuffer for your best crafting friend.

Because Every Other Blogger Does It

2011-12-05T15:39:00.002-06:00

I can't believe Christmas is only 20 days away. I've made a tiny dent in my holiday shopping. And when I say holiday shopping, I mean my crafting. I bet nobody is surprised I make a lot of my Christmas gifts. Naturally, I make soap, but I also make cookies, chai tea, beaded jewelry and this year I might make some cheesy biscuits.

But I've been busy with other things, too. I'm working on a big story for Third Coast Digest, which has taken up a lot of my free time. It should be published next week.

Kristine and I are starting up a "crafternoon" series this Sunday. We'll watch a movie, drink some wine and work on are latest crafty efforts.

Furthermore, next week I'm going to see a play for free at a theater in Bayview. Don't you love free stuff?

And I've got to give a shout out to Deborah Niemann. Her book Homegrown and Homemade has been named one of the best environmental and green books of 2011 by the website Mother Nature News.

Make Shit Yourself: Pumpkin Pie Face Mask

2011-11-22T10:56:00.005-06:00

If you’re a pumpkin pie fan come Thanksgiving you’ll be extra thankful for this pumpkin pie mask. Pumpkin sloughs off dry skins cells while helping your skin retain moisture. If you’re visiting family or friends for Thanksgiving this makes a very unique hostess gift.

Ingredients

1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
2 T vanilla yogurt or sour cream
1 T honey

Stir all of the ingredients into a smooth paste. Spoon the mask into a container with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the fridge where it should keep for 2-3 weeks.

To use, first clean your face with your favorite soap. Then spread about one tablespoon of the mask over your face and neck. Leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse the mask off with warm water and dry you skin. Follow-up with moisturizer.

Thanks to Lauren Cox for the recipe, which I found in her book Ecobeauty: Scrubs, Rubs, Masks, and Bath Bombs for You and Your Friends. My review of this book can be found at Third Coast Digest.

DVD Watch: Page One- Inside the New York Times (2011)

2011-11-16T09:35:00.004-06:00

Sometimes the biggest news in media is the media itself especially in the precarious world of print media. And even the venerable institution of the New York Times is not immune to the upheaval.

For more than a year, filmmaker Andrew Rossi followed several editors and reporters at the New York Times giving us the thought-provoking and amusing documentary Page One: Inside the New York Times.

Rossi focuses most of his unblinking camera lens on David Carr, a long-time reporter (and former crack addict). Carr covers mainly media issues, and is wholly devoted to the New York Times and traditional journalism even as the new media of the Internet is absorbing readers.

Carr still does reporting the old-school way. He makes phones calls, tracks down important sources and leads, and interviews people face-to-face. Carr is quite combative. The term hard-boiled seems to be tailor-made for him. Yet, you can’t help but admire his tenacity and dedication to getting the story.

On the other hand, Page One features Brian Stelter, a multi-tasking boy wonder. Fully comfortable in the world of Internet media, Stelter lines his desk with several open laptops, writing copy, tweeting, blogging and researching on-line. He pointedly tells us we can easily access pertinent information via Internet resources like YouTube. Instead of waiting for the big scoop, people are now actively seeking it out through digital means.

Carr and Stelter may differ on how they seek information and sources, but they do want to give New York Times' readers important and accurate stories. Page One is not shy going over the Times’ missteps in the past few years like Jayson Blair’s acts of plagiarism or Judith Miller’s false coverage of Iraq’s Weapons of Mass Destruction.

We’re in an age where major dailies are going out of business. Even the New York Times relevance isn’t sacred. And throughout Page One we see the staff fret over the paper’s future and the future of their own careers. Two reporters get the pink slip. Interestingly, they both are women of a "certain age."

Still, Carr remains devoted to the Times and the importance of getting the story right. When he tells off the creators of the outrageous website Vice about their shocking and disturbing “travel” pieces that are written in a rather flippant manner, you can’t help but cheer him on.

However, newcomer Stelter is not exactly wrong for embracing on-line media and making a name for himself via the Internet. As someone who started in traditional media and is now writing for on-line publications, I know good reporting is good reporting. You just have to diligently seek it out.

Page One will mainly appeal to media junkies, but even those with a casual interest in the world of journalism will find this documentary quite interesting and entertaining.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That-Special "WTF Files" Edition

2011-11-13T16:00:00.006-06:00

Idiot commenter on one of the worst sites I’ve ever come across on the Interwebs thinks the Penn State scandal/tragedy is like an episode of Glee. Um, asshole? Blaine would like to have a word with you.

The most fertile woman in the world, Michelle Duggar, is pregnant again! This broad must have a Teflon uterus.

Nothing says you are a member of the 1% like buying your bestie a $5,200 baby tub. Damn, that thing is tacky.

What are the kids into these days? Apparently butt chugging and vodka tampons.

Former Bachelor contestant, Shayne Lamas, and her douchebag husband, Nik Richie, name their child Press-Dahl Lamas Richie. Press-Dahl? That’s not a name; that’s a major appliance!

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights

2011-11-05T14:37:00.003-05:00

Third Coast Digest published my article on Deborah Niemann's visit to Milwaukee's very own Boswell Book Company to talk about her book Homegrown and Handmade. Ms. Niemann is the ultimate queen of "Make Shit Yourself."

Gen X Profile: Anderson Cooper (1967)

2011-10-30T13:38:00.005-05:00

Born on June 3, 1967, and fully named Anderson Hays Vanderbilt Cooper, Anderson Cooper is a television reporter, author and now the host of his very own talk show. He is the son of the late writer Wyatt Cooper and heiress, socialite and fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt.

Despite his very privileged upbringing, Anderson dealt with tragedy at early age. His father died while undergoing open-heart surgery when Anderson was only ten years old. And in 1988, his older brother Carter committed suicide when he jumped from the family’s 14th floor terrace. Anderson believes it is this horrible loss which prompted him to pursue a career in journalism.

After graduating from the Dalton School in 1985, Anderson studied political science and international relations at Yale. He interned at the CIA, but being a news junkie since he was a young child the world of journalism beckoned him. And this is the path he chose to follow despite having no formal journalistic training.

Like a lot of his fellow Gen X-ers, Anderson difficulty procuring even an entry-level job in his chosen field. Even his Vanderbilt name couldn’t get him a job answering phones at ABC. Finally, Anderson got a job as a fact checker at the youth-oriented news show Channel One. Early during his tenure at Channel One, Anderson had a friend conjure up a fake news pass. He used this news pass while in Myanmar where he focused his reports on student protesters. These reports were soon shown on Channel One.

Anderson later went on to Vietnam where he studied the language, culture and politics. He filmed these aspects of Vietnam and they, too, were shown on Channel One. Soon Anderson was traveling the globe, reporting from countries like Rwanda, Somalia and Bosnia.

It wasn’t long before Anderson became a correspondent with ABC News, just several years after he failed to get an entry-level job with the network. In 1999, Anderson became a co-anchor of the ABC News’ overnight program World News Now. A year later he was made host of the reality TV show The Mole, which he did for two seasons.

Anderson decided to return to the world of journalism in the wake of 9/11 terrorist attacks. He joined the cable news network CNN. He originally was co-host of American Morning with Paula Zahn and later became a prime time news anchor. In 2003, he became host of his very own show, Anderson Cooper 360º.

Anderson Cooper 360º is not your typically dry news program. Anderson covers the day’s events that is fast paced but also offers in-depth analysis. Not afraid to show a more goofy side, Anderson reports on “odder” news items in his entertaining segment “RidicuList.” His “RidicuList” on French actor Gerard Depardieu relieving himself on an airplane went viral when Anderson got a case of the giggles. Hey, poop and pee humor is funny even if you are a news anchor quickly entering middle age.

However, Anderson is most well-known for his more serious coverage of huge news events. Over the years he has covered famine in Somalia, the tsunami in Asia, Hurricane Katrina, the earthquake in Haiti and unrest in the Middle East. He admits he is drawn to conflict but often wonders if his news reports on these issues make an impact on his audience.

Anderson holds other television duties. He has often filled in for Regis Philbin on Live with Regis and Kelly. He’s a correspondent on 60 Minutes. He has written for several well-known magazines. His 2006 memoir Dispatches from the Edge was a best-seller. And this past fall, he launched his very own talk show, Anderson.

Anderson has won quite a few awards for his journalistic efforts. Anderson won his first Emmy for his coverage of Princess Diana’s funeral. He won a Peabody Award for his coverage of Hurricane Katrina. For his coverage of the earthquake in Haiti, the Haiti government awarded him with a National Order of Honour and Merit.

Anderson Cooper, known for his silver locks and piercing baby blues, keeps mum about his personal life. He mostly makes his home in Manhattan where he lives in a renovated firehouse.

About his career in journalism, Anderson has stated, “I think you have to be yourself, and you have to be real and you have to admit that you have to admit what you don’t know, and talk about what you do know, and talk about what you don’t know as long as you say you don’t know it.”

Anderson Cooper Links

Anderson Cooper 360°

Anderson (Talk Show)

Anderson Cooper’s Twitter Feed

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: I Got Published!

2011-10-19T11:20:00.004-05:00

Third Coast Digest has published my feature on an upcoming event at Milwaukee's very own Boswell Book Company featuring authors Stuart Nadler (The Book of Life) and Wisconsin's very own Chad Harbach (The Art of Fielding).

I also want to give a huge thank you to Daniel Goldin and Stacie Williams at Boswell. This article wouldn't have been possible without the two of you.

Make Shit Yourself: Chai Tea Mix

2011-10-18T16:56:00.005-05:00

Thanks to an introduction by my friend Nora I've become a huge fan of Chai tea. It's the perfect drink on cold, blustery days. However, buying a chai tea at my favorite coffee/tea shops can get a bit pricey. Fortunately, I have a really great chai tea recipe, and most of the ingredients can be found at your local grocery store.

Homemade Chai Tea Mix

1 cup nonfat dry milk powder
1 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
1 cup French Vanilla non-dairy creamer
2-1/2 cups sugar
1-1/2 cups unsweetened instant tea granules
1 t. ground ginger
1 t. ground cinnamon
1/2 t. each: ground cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, allspice
1/8 t. white pepper

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Blend the mixture, in small batches, in a food processor or blender until the mix is the consistency of fine powder. Store in an air tight jar. Stir 3-4 heaping tablespoons into a mug of hot milk to serve. Delicious!

Teen Screening: Footloose (1984)

2011-10-14T16:14:00.003-05:00

Most remakes are pretty unnecessary. Did we really need a remake of Fame? And I’m sure there are plenty of Generation X-ers who are claiming sacrilege now a remake of Footloose has been released. I’m holding my judgment until I actually see 2011’s remake (on DVD, of course), but I can’t help but get a bit nostalgic for the original Footloose released in 1984.

In the original Footloose, Kevin Bacon plays Ren MacCormack. Ren has just moved with his family to a small-town called Bomont from big city Chicago. Ren is a rock and roll rebel who loves to dance. You know he’s a rock and roll rebel because he has a spiky Billy Idol inspired haircut that you didn’t see in 1980s small-town America. Back then guys wore buzz cuts, or had hair like Scott Baio’s Chachi character, or, yes, had a mullet.

But I digress. Ren gets some bad news after he moves to Bomont. Rock music and dancing has been banned. Why? Several years ago, some kids were killed in a car accident after a night of hard partying. One of the dead teenagers just happened to be the son of the town preacher, Reverend Shaw Moore, played by John Lithgow.

Not surprisingly, Ren is not happy about the ban, and he decides to stick it to the man buy listening to music and dancing in secret, giving the audience several fun dance sequences. Big city kids in Fame may dance on taxis, but Ren has to settle for farm equipment.

However, there is something good in Bomont for Ren, Ariel Shaw (Lori Singer). Ariel is not only the reverend’s daughter; she’s also a total wild child. And she shows off her bad ass-ness by balancing on the doors of two side-by-side cars speeding down a country road. Ren is smitten, and he’ll do anything to win Ariel’s heart.

Ren will also do anything to bring back music and dancing to Bomont. Before the Beastie Boys claimed, “You Got to Fight for Your Right to Party.” Ren and his new friends did just that. One of Ren’s new BFFs is Willard (the late Chris Penn). In one notable scene, Ren teaches the arrhythmic Willard to dance while Deniece Williams’ sings the huge hit, “Let’s Hear It for the Boy.”

Ren and his friends lead a crusade to convince the town elders to turn back the ban on dancing and music. It’s really important to lift the ban because prom is coming up, and what is a prom without dancing or music? Not much fun I’d say. The town elders begin to empathize with the town youngsters, and glory to God, the ban is lifted. Ren, Ariel, Willard and all their Bomont friends get the prom of a lifetime, and the movie culminates with everyone dancing to the title song sung by Kenny Loggins.

Footloose tells an age-old story of young people rebelling against authority and does it in a style that was obviously influenced by MTV’s early years. The dance sequences are top notch and the editing is fast paced. Long before he became notable as a parlor game called “Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon,” Kevin Bacon became star as Ren. Footloose also features a pre-Sex and the City Sarah Jessica Parker as Ariel’s best friend. Footloose boasted one of the biggest soundtracks of all time, inspired a Broadway musical, and now there is an updated musical. Time will tell if the remake will be a hit, but you can always enjoy the original.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-10-08T12:38:00.003-05:00

Jon Anne Willow, publisher of Third Coast Digest and all-around cool chick, has written a wonderful tribute to Steve Jobs (RIP).

Call me a crotchety, child-hating bitch, but a lot of child actors work my last nerve. However, there are plenty of child actors who give amazing performances, and Salon has a great list of them. I just wish Victoire Thivisol’s amazing performance in the French movie Ponette was included. She blew me away!

Glee’s Gayest Moments. Wait, I thought Glee was just one big gay moment.

Entertainment Weekly’s List of the 25 Best Love Songs Ever! And my fellow Gen X-ers, the worst songs of the 1980s! Ugh, I just barfed on my jelly shoes.

Johnny Depp compares photo shoots to rape. What a dick. I like Depp as an actor, and I used to think he was really hot, but his analogy really pissed me off. And I’m not impressed with his apology. Then again, this is a guy who supports child rapist Roman Polanski.

To cleanse the palate, Mindy Kaling writes about tired female characters in chick flicks.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: I Got Published

2011-10-06T16:17:00.002-05:00

This past Tuesday Pulitzer Prize winning author Stacy Schiff visited Milwaukee to talk about her book Cleopatra: A Life. I was very lucky to cover the event for Third Coast Digest.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-10-01T14:49:00.004-05:00

Anybody want to buy a suit from Donald Trump’s line at Macy’s? They’re now 70% off! (::crickets chirping::)

Kurt Cobain the baker? Who knew? Here is a recipe for the late rocker’s “No-Bake Cookies.” All Apologies” but I bet my cookies are better. “All Apologies?” Get it?

Here is the list of the latest nominees to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Discuss who deserves to get it and who doesn’t. Rob Brummer from Entertainment Weekly sure has an opinion about this list.

Be afraid, very afraid. Glenn Beck is developing a kids’ TV show.

The Milwaukee Film Fest is going great. And tomorrow afternoon my friend Kristine and I are going to see this movie. I’m really looking forward to it, and if time permits I’ll probably write a review.

Great Moments in Gen X History: The Release of Nirvana's Nevermind

2011-09-24T10:37:00.006-05:00

"Here we are now. Entertain us"-Smells Like Teen Spirit

Music in the early 1990s was pretty derivative. MC Hammer, Vanilla Ice, Nelson and C & C Music Factory had huge hits. Rock and roll was defined by bloated big-haired heavy metal bands. But all of that changed when Nevermind, the second album by Seattle-based grunge rockers, Nirvana, was released on September 24, 1991.

Nirvana was formed by Kurt Cobain and Krist Novoselic. Chad Channing was Nirvana's original drummer, but he was replaced by Dave Grohl as Nirvana entered the studio to record Nevermind. Originally on the independent label Sub Pop, Nirvana soon signed with DGC Records and Nevermind was produced by legendary record producer Butch Vig.

Not too many copies of the album were initially shipped to record stores when Nevermind was released. Nirvana wasn’t on many people’s radar at the time. But that changed once the first single "Smells Like Teen Spirit" became a hit. "Smells Like Teen Spirit" was first played on MTV’s alternative video program "120 Minutes." But as it climbed the charts, MTV began to play it during the day.

Nevermind entered the charts at 144, but hit number one on January 11, 1992, knocking Michael Jackson's Dangerous out of the top perch. Nirvana did what was considered impossible; they bested the King of Pop. The press called Nirvana's music, and other music coming out of Seattle,"grunge."

Most reviews of Nevermind were positive, and Nirvana got good notices by both the mainstream and alternative press. Spin magazine stated, "...you’ll be humming all the songs for the rest of the life..." And I have to admit, as I’ve been writing this post songs like "Smells Like Teen Spirit," "Come as You Are" and "Polly" are on an endless loop in brain.

Nevermind was considered a musical victory, yet Nirvana, and especially Kurt Cobain, seemed weirded out by their success. We were just coming off of the odious "Greed is Good" 1980s, and this was light years of music makers becoming blinged out moguls. Success was akin to selling out to the "man."

Still, some people were kind of thrilled that their scene was being noticed. And it wasn’t just about the music. Those of us involved in a DIY culture of 'zines, shopping at thrift stores and yes, loving alternative music finally felt justified, even though we also belly ached about the scene becoming "totally corporate."

In 1991, Nirvana seemed unstoppable, and many of us eagerly grabbed up Nevermind’s following In Utero. But just as Nirvana was about to embark on a tour, Kurt Cobain committed suicide. Nirvana was finished.

Yet, twenty years on Nirvana and Nevermind remains a cultural touchstone for countless Generation X-ers. Kurt may be gone, but Dave Grohl is now the front man for the hugely successful rock band Foo Fighters. Krist Novoselic never completely abandoned music, but he also became a filmmaker and entered politics as a Washington state committee man. He also wrote the book Grunge and Government: Let’s Fix This Broken Democracy.

Who knows what would have become of Nirvana? Maybe they'd still be making amazing music; maybe they would have completely disappeared. I just know I'm pretty happy Nevermind came out. I may have given up mosh pits for craft shows, but as Nirvana put it in "Smells Like Teen Spirit," "And I forget just why I taste. Oh yeah I guess it makes me smile I found it hard it's hard to find.Oh well whatever nevermind."

Other Nirvana and Nevermind Sources:

Official Nirvana Site

"Eight Reasons Why Nevermind is the Most Imporant Album Ever Released of All Time"

Spin's Coverage of Nevermind's 20th Anniversary

Rolling Stone's Coverage of the Reissue of Nevermind
Jon Stewart to Interview Surviving Members of Nirvana and Butch Vig

The Making of Nevermind

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: I Got Published

2011-09-23T11:12:00.006-05:00

Third Coast Digest published my review of the documentary El Bulli: Cooking in Progress.

El Bulli: Cooking in Progress is just one of the films being screened by the Milwaukee Film Festival this year.

Make Shit Yourself: Corn, Tomato and Basil Salad

2011-08-29T16:36:00.005-05:00

Late summer is the perfect time to take advantage of locally grown produce or the bounty from your very own garden. This salad is quite delicious, and so easy to make.

Ingredients:

3 ears of corn
1 large tomato or two medium, three small, or one basket of cherry tomatoes
1 small handful of torn or chopped basil
1 lemon for both zest and juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Husk the corn. Steam the corn for five minutes in an inch or two of boiling water. Turn once or twice. You can also fully boil the ears of corn. Both methods work.

Place the cobs of corn in the fridge until cool. Cut the kernels off the cobs.

Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized chunks and place in a bowl with the kernels and the basil.

Zest half of the lemon into the bowl. Then juice the lemon into the bowl.

Add the olive oil and toss. Adjust the lemon zest and juice if needed. Add salt and pepper to taste.

There are a lot of variations to this salad. If you’re not a basil fan, you can always another herb. I like cilantro. Some people like mint. You can also add other veggies. I’ve made this salad with cut-up cucumbers and purple onions. Though this is considered a side dish, I’ve often made this salad into a meal with toasted pita bread or cheese and crackers. Enjoy!!

This recipe is courtesy of Cook Food by Lisa Jervis. You can read my review of Cook Food at Third Coast Digest.

Because Every Other Blogger Does It

2011-08-27T08:15:00.003-05:00

Can it be? Is September just around the corner? What happened to the summer? Well, after having an incredibly difficult summer, I can only say, "Good riddance!"

I spent a majority of the summer not working. I couldn't even get a simple temp job. Yes, I worked furtively looking for a job, any job, just like countless other out of work Americans. Finally, I've snagged a promising temp job. I'm working in the purchasing department for a manufacturing company. This isn't completely out of my expertise. I used to be a manager/buyer for a gift store ages ago, so I'm pretty familiar dealing with purchase order, vendors and so on. We shall see how this new job works out. I'm just happy to be working. Everyone at this company is very friendly, helpful and easy to get along with.

What else? Next week-end I'm dog and housesitting for my friend Kristine's friend Jennifer. Jennifer has an adorable German Shepherd named Libby. Lucky for me, Libby is also very gentle and relaxed, and very good with people. I'm not exactly the biggest person in the world, so I was wondering if Libby might end up walking me instead of me walking for her. Well, I think I'll be okay. And Jennifer totally sold me on the idea of housesitting when she mentioned she has cable TV-I kid, I kid.

Then there is this blog. I should have a new "Make Shit Yourself" post up shortly, probably next week. And I will also be posting another Gen X Profile and a Teen Screening movie review shortly.

Well, that's it. Have a great week-end!

Retro Reels: Desk Set (1957)

2011-08-23T16:46:00.003-05:00

Human beings being replaced by high tech is something many American workers worry about, and it’s not a recent phenomenon as Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn show us in the 1957 comedy Desk Set.

Desk Set takes place at the Federal Broadcasting Company, a fictional television network. Katharine Hepburn plays Bunny Watson, the head of FBC’s huge reference library. Bunny can recite facts faster than you can say, “Google it!” She and her brainy staff, played by Joan Blondell, Dina Merrill and Sue Randall, are kept quite busy with staffers calling up looking for the 411 on a multitude of topics, both mundane and serious.

However, there seems to be trouble on the horizon. The network is in talks to merge with another company, but at the moment it seems to be on the down low. FBC brings in an efficiency expert by the name of Richard Sumner played by Spencer Tracy. Richard has also invented a computer system called EMERAC, an “electronic brain” that is supposed to help the workers with the merger. However, many of the workers think these computers will replace them, and they wonder when they’ll get fired.

Richard and Bunny soon meet when he comes into her department taking measurements for the computers. Richard begins to question Bunny, wondering if she can answer as quickly as a computer. One smart cookie, Bunny has no problem answering the questions and proves to quite the foil to Richard’s efficiency expertise.

Instead of being turned off by Bunny’s brains, Richard is actually quite charmed. And despite her hesitation, Bunny can’t help but be drawn towards Richard. She’s been with her boyfriend, Mike (Gig Young), for seven years with no promise of marriage in sight. Hey, Bunny isn’t getting any younger. Bunny and Richard spar and flirt the way only Hepburn and Tracy can.

Towards the end of the film, a giant computer is placed in Bunny’s department to help everyone field questions more efficiently. However, despite the “advanced” technology, the computer is no match for Bunny and her fearless staff. The computer has a near “meltdown” but Bunny and her crew proves to be up to the task. And another computer messes up and mistakenly fires everyone via pink slips placed in their paychecks.

Desk Set is the eighth film Hepburn and Tracy did together (their final was Who’s Coming to Dinner?), and it’s a charming bit of fluff. Based on William Marchant’s play with a script by Phoebe and Harry Ephron (yep, Nora’s parents), Desk Set is directed with a light touch by Walter Lang. Sure, there are parts that look dated. I had to laugh when I saw the huge computer that took up half of Bunny’s department, and how the answers were spit out on old-school perforated paper.

But despite being made in 1957, Desk Set’s premise looks quite modern.These days, everyone seems to be addicted iPads, Blackberries, Googling, Tweeting and updating their Facebook pages. But there truly is no replacing our human brains and our need to connect with one another without the use of technology. Desk Set shows this in a fun and entertaining way.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: I Got Published Again

2011-08-22T16:33:00.004-05:00

Third Coast Digest published my review of Savvy Auntie: The Ultimate Guide for Cool Aunts, Great-Aunts, Godmothers, and All Women Who Love Kids. Enjoy!!!

And a shout out to my editor, Erin, who is leaving Third Coast Digest to move to California. I'm going to miss you, Erin. You've been a great support to me, and Third Coast Digest won't be the same without you. Good luck!

Music Review: Sky Full of Holes by Fountains of Wayne

2011-08-18T13:59:00.002-05:00

It’s been four years since Fountains of Wayne released Traffic and Weather. In the world of pop music, four years a lifetime to release a new album. But Fountains of Wayne’s latest musical effort, Sky Full of Holes is well worth the wait.

On Sky Full of Holes, Fountains of Wayne are still entertaining with their power pop style and their catchy hooks. But this time out, Fountains of Wayne instill their songs with a slight rootsy and acoustic country feel. And perhaps it’s because the guys are approaching middle age, or perhaps it’s due to our less than certain economic times, but there is also a touch of melancholy in the lyrics.

However, that doesn’t mean Sky Full of Holes isn’t entertaining as all hell. And a slight shift in musicality and some sad sack lyrics just make me appreciate Fountains of Wayne so much more.

Sky Full of Holes begins with “Summer Place,” a song I was treated to when Fountains of Wayne played at Milwaukee’s Turner Ball Room two years ago. In “Summer Place” a woman reminisces about her wayward youth, “At fifteen/Shoplifting/Was the only game she liked to play/At forty/She’s so bored she/Thinks about it then decides to pay/And still she can’t help feeling/Those good old days don’t seem so far away/Was it just yesterday?”

On Sky Full of Holes' first single, “Richie and Ruben” the band shows their biting humor. Richie and Ruben are two hipsters whose entrepreneurial spirit vastly outweighs their business acumen. In one of the verses the band gripes, “They opened a boutique called Debris/Together with some kid from F.I.T/Though later it turned out her never quite got his degree/Eleven hundred bucks for a ripped up shirt/That came pre-stained with bleach and black dirt/Seemed just a little bit steep to me.” In an effortlessly catchy chorus, the band laments, “Riche and Ruben/Don’t know what they’re doing/Richie and Ruben/Are both a little out of their minds/Don’t give’em a dime/They’ll blow through your dough/Just like they blew through mine.”

As mentioned, Sky Full of Holes has a touch of melancholy not often found on Fountains of Wayne earlier albums. On “Hate to See You Like This” the song’s protagonist tries desperately to help a woman suffering from a crushing depression, “Come on girl/Let’s pull it together/You can’t just watch informercials forever/If you need a hand/Why don’t you take mine?/Let’s get you out/Into the sunshine/Come on give me a kiss/I hate to see you like this/I hate to see you like this/Ahh ah ah ah/I hate to see you like this.”

At the concert I saw, Fountains of Wayne also treated us to the song “A Road Song.” On this song, the band honestly tells of the banality of being a band on the road to loved ones left behind. I guess being in a rock band isn’t as glamorous as it seems. And just when things seem to be a bit too slowed-down, Fountains of Wayne rev things up with a rousing and quite silly up-tempo “Radio Bar.”

Yet, you can take the silly so far, and Fountains of Wayne get serious once again in the closing track, “Cemetery Guns.” Over a military drum beat, Fountains of Wayne sing of the grief of burying soldiers and those they leave behind, “Cemetery Guns go bang, bang, bang/Shooting all the sky full of holes/Twenty-one times in a row/For the blue war widow in the gray raincoat/On the green grass below.” “Cemetery Guns” doesn’t hit you over the head with the toll of war, but it does break your heart.

Fountains of Wayne have sung of adolescent hi-jinks, post-college dreams and the reality of young adulthood. Now they are facing the ennui their forties with humor, compassion, amusement and an ever-pragmatic Generation X insight. The sky may be full of holes, but Fountains of Wayne’s talent is over-flowing.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-08-17T16:14:00.002-05:00

Abercrombie and Fitch wants the Situation to stop wear its clothing, and willing to pay him do just that. What’s the problem? I thought Abercrombie and Fitch was one of the go-to retailers for douchebags everywhere.

Speaking of reality show cretins, Kate Plus 8 is ceasing production. Now let’s get rid of the Duggars and the Teen Moms. I’m so sick of “if it breeds, it leads,” reality television.

Further proof TV news is going down the tubes or is the Today Show just messing with us?

Seven new Dr. Seuss books coming out this fall!

London is the most fashionable city in the world. What? Milwaukee didn’t make the top ten?
(Looks sheepishly down at her yoga pants and T-shirt.)

Summer Reads: Confessions of a Prairie Bitch-How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated by Alison Arngrim

2011-08-15T14:11:00.002-05:00

I loved the Laura Ingalls Wilder “Little House” books, and when I was a little girl the television series based on Ms. Wilder’s books was "Must See TV." I sat in rapt attention of the Ingalls’ family adventures and the world of Walnut Grove. I adored Laura Ingalls but thought Mary Ingalls was sanctimonious prig. I wanted to travel in a covered wagon and churn my own butter. And I loathed Nellie Oleson and loved her at the same time.

Ah yes, Nellie Oleson, the fiercest bitch the prairie ever saw. She was a scheming, manipulative and evil little wretch, and I couldn’t help but be obsessed with her. If Nellie was a reality show cast member, she’d be saying, “I’m not here to make friends!” and pulling out someone’s weave. Yep, Nellie was the original “Real Housewife.”

But behind the character of Nellie was a very real person, actress Alison Arngrim. Alison played Nellie Oleson for seven years, and lived to tell the tale. And boy, what a tale she has to tell in her memoir Confessions of a Prairie Bitch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated.

Alison grew up in a show biz family. Her father was Thor Arngrim, a talent manager whose clients included Liberace. Apparently, Alison was supposed to keep the "secret" of Liberace’s homosexuality a secret. Yea, right. Alison’ mother, Norma MacMillan, garnered fame as a voice over artist, some of her most famous characters were Gumby and Casper the Friendly Ghost.

Alison had several movie and TV roles under her belt, when she was slated to play the devious Nellie Oleson, Laura Ingalls’ foil. Nellie Olseon was a game changer for Alison. She went from just another nameless kid actor to the most hated girl in the country. Alison is quite honest on how Little House viewers actually thought she was Nellie Oleson, and she often paid a painful price. Someone actually kicked young Alison in the butt and she fell to the ground during a promotional outing for the show. Ouch! I’m just glad Alison didn’t get famous during the Internet age. I can totally see a Facebook page called “Nellie Oleson is a F**KING BITCH!” Um, like?

Alison shares a lot of delicious and honest stories about life on the “Prairie” set. Michael Landon who played that hot piece of Walnut Grove ass, Charles Ingalls, was a truly caring man who had a wicked sense of humor (and often went “commando.”) Melissa Sue Anderson who played Mary can best be described as aloof. Laura and Nellie may have been enemies but Melissa Gilbert and Alison grew to be total besties on the set and are good friends to this day. Together Alison and Melissa got up to crazy hijinks like relieving themselves in a crick while filming a pivotal catfight scene.

Alison also became very close to her on-screen hubby Percival, Steve Tracy. Steve opened up about his homosexuality to Alison, and she accepted him without question. Their friendship is touching and very real to the reader, and when Alison describes losing Steve to AIDS her grief is very palpable.

Losing her good friend wasn’t the only tragedy she had to deal with. Alison’s older brother sexually abused her, and she struggled to overcome the abuse. An early first marriage didn’t survive. And Alison also had to grasp the fact her father was gay.

Like a lot of child stars, Alison also had to deal with acting roles drying up once she became an adult. She could have easily turned another Hollywood statistic, a drugged-out mess or worse. Instead Alison got involved in AIDS awareness activism and she also channeled her rage over being sexually abused to helping other victims. She’s now making audiences laugh their asses off as a stand-up comic. She’s also found much happiness with her second husband.

Confessions of Prairie Bitch is a brutally honest read, but Alison never comes across as “woe is me.” She is fiercely funny, and her writing voice rings clear and true. You may have hated Nellie Oleson but Alison Arngrim is the kind of chick you wish was in your girl tribe. Confessions of a Prairie Bitch is a great summer read. Actually, it’s a great read no matter the season.

Tunes I'm Listening To

2011-08-12T14:12:00.006-05:00

It's no secret I love Fountains of Wayne. When I saw them in concert a couple of years ago, they mentioned they'd have a new album out. Well, Fountains of Wayne's latest musical effort, Sky Full of Holes, is out and I love it. The first single is "Richie and Ruben" and I love its sing-along-and-tap-your-feet power pop sound!

As you probably know by now Adele's second album, 21, is no sophomore slump and I bet you've heard "Rolling in the Deep" about a million times by now. Well, if you loved "Rolling in the Deep" you're going to love "Rumor Has It." Adele has one of the strongest voices in pop these days, and I'm loving how the lyrics show how she's standing up to a wayward lover. This is no shrinking violet!

Another British singer with powerful pipes is Alison Moyet. Yet, she never got the recognition she so deserved this side of the pond. Tis a pity because Ms. Moyet is amazing! Take a listen to her 1985 single "Invisible." Wow!

Okay, Katy Perry will never be accused of having powerful pipes. But God forgive me, I can't help but love "Last Friday Night (TGIF)" and its irresitable cheesy goodness. Plus, you can't go wrong by having Debbie Gibson, Corey Feldman, Kenny G, Hanson, Darren Criss and Kevin McHale in your video. So I guess I can forgive the presence of Rebecca Black.

Back in the day I was a total Duranie! John Taylor was special, y'all. Duran Duran are back, and finally getting the respect they deserve. I love their single "All You Need is Now." And on a shallow note, it's nice to see the boys from Birmingham do not look like slapped ass and are still really, really cute (well, for a bunch of middle-aged men).

Unless you've been living under a rock, you are probably aware of Amy Winehouse's death. Much has been said over her notable singles "Rehab" and "Back to Black." Sure, I love those songs, but there is a place in my heart for her her wistful and aching "Love is a Losing Game."

Great Moments in Gen X History: MTV

2011-08-09T17:10:00.006-05:00

“I Want My MTV!”

“Ladies and gentleman, rock and roll.” On August 1st, 1981 at 12:01am those words were spoken at a fledgling cable tv station. And the world of music, and culture as a whole, was never the same. Hard to believe it, but MTV is now 30 years old.

The brain child of media executive Robert Pittman, MTV started simply enough. It was a vehicle to showcase musical videos. In the beginning, videos were merely promotional items used to market bands and singers. Videos on MTV were shown 24 hours a day, and introduced by VJs (Video Jockeys). The original VJs were Mark Goodman, Alan Hunter, Martha Quinn, Nina Blackwood and the late JJ Jackson. It wasn’t long before videos became not only marketing pieces, artistic forms of expression. Videos were also blamed for making image a more important element of music than actual talent.

If you’re a Gen X-er with any kind of clue and a pop culture junkie at heart, you probably know the Buggles’ “Video Killed the Radio Star” was the first video shown on MTV. But what was the second? In case this ever becomes a Trivial Pursuit question keep in mind it was Pat Benatar’s “You Better Run.”

It wasn’t long before MTV’s impact was felt. Record stores found people coming in and asking for records by acts they saw on MTV. Top 40 radio stations finally started playing acts they would have ignored without MTV. MTV was instrumental in launching acts like Duran Duran, Eurythmics, Madonna, Culture Club and the Police.

Soon other network and cable stations had their own video shows. TBS had Night Tracks and NBC had Friday Night Videos. I remember our local NBC affiliate, WTMJ, showing videos on Saturday Mornings.

In the early years, MTV was criticized for its lack of black acts. But that all changed when Michael Jackson’s Thriller was released. Classic videos like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It” and “Thriller” opened the door for other black acts, and MTV became a bit more diverse.

Speaking of diversity, MTV soon devoted shows to different niches of music. “Headbanger’s Ball” focused on heavy metal. “Yo! MTV Raps” devoted itself to, you guessed it, rap music. Alternative music found a place on “120 Minutes.” And singers and bands proved their musical chops playing their songs acoustically on “MTV Unplugged.” “Total Request Live” also known as “TRL” showed videos requested by MTV viewers. Throughout MTV’s tenure, it has also shown global concerts including 1985’s Live Aid. MTV also showed non-music related shows like the fashion-oriented "House of Style" and the game show "Remote Control."

As mentioned, videos were seen as merely another form of promotion. However, videos became more than that, often notable for their artistry and creativity. In 1984, MTV hosted its first “MTV Video Awards. Many directors got their start making videos including Spike Jonze, David Fincher, Anton Corbijn, Tarsem, Mark Pellington and Russell Mulcahy.

MTV also got into the business of promoting activism to its viewers. Choose or Lose encouraged young people to vote, and MTV has used other programs to discuss such issues like poverty and disease, the environment, education, discrimination, war and peace, human rights and drug abuse.

MTV began its reality programming with the Real World and Road Rules in the 1990s. Now MTV is primarily known for reality television and music is pretty much ignored. Shows like Teen Mom and Jersey Shore have garnered huge audiences and made their cast huge tabloid stars. All of this reality program has garnered criticism for everything from promoting bad behavior to forgetting MTV’s original intentions, showing music videos.

MTV has been criticized since its inception, and will probably still be criticized if it survives another 30 years. Sure, I miss MTV original recipe, but I can always catch my favorite videos on YouTube. And I also realize as I enter my dotage, I’m no longer MTV’s target market. Still, I can’t dismiss MTV’s impact on music, culture, society and at this point, two generations.

Do you still want your MTV?

MTV Links

MTV's Official Site

JenX67's Favorite MTV Moments

30 Years of Women on MTV Courtesy of Jezebel

Stars Who Got Their Start on MTV

Whatever Happened to the Original MTV VJs?

Rolling Stone: MTV Turns 30

Make Shit Yourself: Bathing Beauty Post-Pool Hair Care

2011-08-05T15:29:00.006-05:00

It's been as hot as Hades out there and I bet a lot of you having been spending time at the pool, trying to cool off. However, chlorine can really do a number on one's tresses. And if your hair is golden-hued, chlorine might be giving it a "lovely" tint of green. Here is a recipe to alleviate you hair of chlorine's bad effects.

Bathing Beauty Post-Pool Hair Care

Ingredients:

1/4 cup lemon juice

2 tablespoons baking soda

1 teaspoon mild liquid shampoo like baby shampoo

Stir all the ingredients. Make sure they are all well-mixed.

Wet hair and apply the mixture, making sure to massage it into your hair and scalp. Your entire head of hair should be covered. Put a shower cap, plastic bag or plastic wrap on your head. Keep the treatment on for 30 minutes or so. After 30 minutes, rinse mixture from your hair, shampoo and condition. This recipe yields about 2 ounces of product.

Note: You might want to add a scented oil to this mixture; it's up to you. And though this recipe said castile liquid soap can be used instead of baby shampoo, I've found castile liquid soap makes my hair feel "gummy." However, this may be different for you.

I'd like to thank Lauren and Janice Cox for this recipe, which I found in their book Eco-Beauty: Scrubs, Rubs, Masks and Bath Bombs for You and Your Friends. You can read my review of their book at Third Coast Digest.

Amy Winehouse, Dead at 27

2011-07-23T13:15:00.007-05:00

Amy Winehouse 1983-2011

I'm shocked, yet I'm not shocked. Amy Winehouse had been troubled for years, yet I was hoping she'd get it together. Now she's joined the 27 Club.

One of my favorite Amy songs, "Tears Dry on Their Own."

ETA: Jen over at Dutiful X-er asks if Amy Winehouse is Generation Y's Kurt Cobain.

WTF Files: "Pimp My Playhouse"

2011-07-22T15:13:00.007-05:00

This is what a child's playhouse that costs $248,000 looks like

Hey, I guess the rich can spend their money anyway they see fit, but a playhouse that costs nearly a quarter of a million dollars? What's wrong with a cardboard box and I don't know...a damn imagination? Once, again, WTF?

Summer Reads: The Two Mrs. Grenvilles by Dominick Dunne (1985)

2011-07-20T10:54:00.002-05:00

Written by the late Dominick Dunne, who was very well known for his coverage of the rich and notorious for Vanity Fair, The Two Mrs. Grenvilles is a deliciously juicy read about high society, scandal and murder and two very different women who share the same last name.

Billy Grenville is the heir to a huge New York fortune. Yes, he is one of the New York Grenvilles, an old money family. Billy is expected to marry the proper woman, but instead falls for showgirl, Ann Arden. Of lowly birth and involved in show business, Ann is seen by high society as “not our kind, dear”-or as we say in fly-over country, “no-account white trash.”

None of this will deter Ann from getting her clutches into Billy and making her way into high society. Billy and Ann soon marry after a whirl-wind courtship, and Ann begins to charm and scheme her place among the upper echelon of New York society. Eventually, Ann does make it to the top. She is noted for her superb dress sense, her lavish parties and is a fixture on the society pages.

However, there is someone very dubious to the newest Mrs. Grenville’s machinations, and that is Alice Grenville, Billy’s indomitable mother and society matron. Alice is not happy Billy married such a dreadfully common woman. She knows Ann is more in love with Billy’s money and connections, and she never fully accepts Ann as her daughter-in-law.

Tragedy falls on the Grenville family when Billy is fatally shot by Ann. Ann claims she thought Billy was an intruder and was trying to protect herself. But if one takes a good look at their marriage, one sees it was a marriage on the skids, filled with malicious fights and infidelities on both sides.

Alice Grenville could easily washed her hands of Ann but instead chooses to protect her as the case goes to trial and is covered by a salivating press. Yes, it’s one thing to lose a son to a shooting; it’s quite another to drag the good family name of Grenville through the mud. But as rumor and the truth become even more twisted, Ann finds herself falling more and more into the abyss. And even the Grenville name can’t save this once-proud family of further tragedy.

Written through the eyes of narrator Basil Plant, The Two Mrs. Grenvilles is based on the true story of Ann and William Woodward and William’s mother Elsie. Apparently the real-life story is more salacious than its fictional treatment. In the book, Billy is seen as a patsy easily led by his wife. In real life, William was notorious for beating his wife and being messed up on drugs and alcohol. Ann wasn’t just some lowly show girl; she was desperate to escape her sad life back in Kansas. And Basil Plant is based on Truman Capote, who befriended Ann Woodward, but then tried to get back at her for making fun of him for his sexual orientation. After she was acquitted, Ann took her own life, and later her children committed suicide themselves.

If you can get away from the truly tragic story of the Woodwards, and focus on the book, The Two Mrs. Grenvilles alone, you will find a story that is well-written and never boring. It truly opens a door that is closed to most of us who shop at Target and think Facebook is the society pages. The Two Mrs. Grenvilles was also made into TV movie starring Ann-Margret as Ann Grenville, Stephen Collins as Billy Grenville and that fabulous dame, the late Claudette Colbert as Alice Grenville.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-07-16T10:49:00.005-05:00

You knew it was happening. Doug Hutchison and his child bride, Courtney Stodden want to do a reality show.

All of your burning Emmy questions answered at Entertainment Weekly.

Speaking of the Emmys, people are pretty upset about these Emmy snubs.

Remember Christina Kelly from the late and lamented Sassy magazine? She has a blog!!!!

Rebekah Brooks resigns! Well, it's about time. Thanks for making journalists (and gingers) look bad, bitch!

Some pregnant women really do have a glow. Here's a pic of a very pregnant Jenna Fischer looking smashing at a movie premiere.

Here is a list of America's worst-dressed cities? I can't believe Milwaukee did not make the list.

Does anyone really need a backpack that costs more than some people make in a year?

Learn public speaking from Twilight's "Kristin Stewart."

They said it would never last, and it hasn't. J-Lo and Marc Anthony have split up after seven years of marriage.

DVD Watch: In a Day (2006)

2011-07-13T11:15:00.009-05:00

In the charming and low-key British romantic comedy In a Day, Lorraine Pilkington plays Ashley. By day Ashley works at a London sandwich shop. She’s a fledgling pianist and singer, and the sandwich shop gig is supposed to just fill in the gaps as she gets the gigs that will lead to musical success.

One morning, while waiting for a bus, Ashley is verbally accosted by another commuter. The conversation starts innocently enough. The man asks her about the book she is reading, a book on jazz. Then he asks her about going back to her place for a quick shag. Not interested in having a booty call with a complete stranger, Ashley declines his advances. This does not sit well with the stranger and he begins to harass Ashley calling her horrible names, and finishing his rant by throwing his cup of coffee on her.

Moments later, Ashley is approached by an appealing young man named Michael (Finlay Robertson). He’s a frequent customer at the sandwich shop. To make her feel better about being assaulted, Michael offers to take Ashley out to lunch. Thinking her day can’t get any worse, Ashley decides to take Michael up on his offer.

Michael and Ashley end up at a pricey restaurant. Ashley enjoys the meal and realizes she also enjoys Michael’s company. Their “date” does not end once Michael picks up the check. He still wants to treat Ashley further so he buys her a nice outfit from a pricey boutique, and he also treats her to a new haircut at an upscale salon.

Ashley is touched by Michael’s kindness and generosity, but can’t help but wonder why a near stranger would be so nice to her. And when Michael later tells her that he’s actually pampering her on behalf of someone’s request, Ashley is further confused.

Lunch, new clothes, and a haircut aren’t Ashley and Michael’s only adventures. They visit to Michael’s sister’s home to wish her a happy birthday. Unfortunately, Michael’s sister is a sourpuss who can’t appreciate anything, and you can feel Michael and Ashley’s discomfort during the entire conversation.

But later things brighten up when Ashley mentions a musician friend of her in need of a new saxophone. Michael agrees to buy Ashley’s friend the new saxophone, and the friend is overwhelmed by their generosity. This visit also gives a chance for Ashley to show off her skills and a pianist and singer, and Michael is truly impressed.

Ashley is still baffled by this mystery man and why he’s being so nice. And when Michael finally owns up to why she deserved to be pampered, Ashley is shocked and doesn’t quite know what to make of Michael’s confession, which brings up bad memories of her childhood. She’s upset, but will she be willing to let go of the past? At the end, we get the idea that maybe, just maybe Ashley can.

In a Day (written and directed by newcomer Evan Richards), goes at a leisurely pace but is never boring. Both Pilkington and Robertson are both very appealing in their roles. Rose Keegan nearly steals the show as Finlay’s shrewish sister, and gives great insight on his psyche. If you’re looking for a sweet little film that is a good escape from summer blockbusters, but isn’t the usual rom-com, you can’t go wrong with In a Day.

Summer Reads: Tiny Ladies in Shiny Pants-Based on a True Story by Jill Soloway

2011-07-11T13:17:00.007-05:00

Jill Soloway is a talented screenwriter who has written for television shows like Six Feet Under, Grey’s Anatomy and The United States of Tara. Along with her sister, Faith, Jill has written the live shows The Real Live Brady Bunch and The Vagina Pageant. She’s a professional colleague and friends with Diablo Cody and has written for several anthologies. And in 2005, Jill’s collection of essays Tiny Ladies in Shiny Pants: Based on a True Story was published.

In Tiny Ladies in Shiny Pants, Jill tells us about her younger years growing up in the Chicago in the only white and Jewish family in the neighborhood, and the years that followed. At only 13, Jill and her friends would don their tightest, shiniest clothes and go to concerts hoping to meet their rock and roll heroes. Jill figured if she met her favorite musician, he would see past her young age, and fall madly in love with her. Of course, her rock and roll dreams never came true, and thusly, led her on a path of romantic confusion

A few years later, Jill loses her virginity to an older man. This doesn’t destroy her, yet she readily admits that her vulnerability and feeling less-than her prettier friends made it easy for this man to get her into bed before she was truly ready for such intimacy. However, Jill does show a sense of humor about the entire situation, later calling this guy “Lotion Bag” because he was always asking about a bag he carried around that carried his lotion.

As she gets older, Jill faces the world of being a grown up, and what it is like to be a young woman trying to navigate a post-feminist world, where getting breast implants is supposed to be empowering, yet she can’t help but watch the Miss America pageant year after year. Jill admits she feels some connection to Monica Lewinsky and the murdered intern Chandra Levy. She’s honest about her attraction to both cop bars and guys she calls “toolbelts”-hot construction workers.

Post-college Jill ends up in Los Angeles and finds success as a screenwriter, producer and comedian. But despite her success, she can’t help but snark on the absurdity that is Hollywood and her life.

Jill is funny, honest and very self-deprecating. She doesn’t shy from calling herself a feminist and she’s proud of her Jewish heritage. The over-use of exclamation points can get out of hand at times, but I see this book as a conversation with your excitable friend who uses her hands in conversation a lot. Tiny Ladies in Shiny Pants reminds me a bit of People are Unappealing by Sara Barron, which I reviewed quite a while ago. Tiny Ladies in Shiny Pants is a fun summer read that will make you cringe, make you say, “Right on!” and totally entertain you.

Make Shit Yourself: Summer Sandal Scrub

2011-07-08T12:19:00.007-05:00

During the summer we often like to wear sandals, flip flops and other shoes that show off our feet. However, sometimes our feet need a little help to look their best. I like this summer sandal scrub because it helps slough off dead skin, makes my feet feel really good and is easy and cheap to make.

Summer Sandal Scrub

Ingredients:

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons of lemon juice

2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel

1 teaspoon of coconut oil

Mix all of the ingredients until you have a smooth paste. Place the scrub into a clean jar with a tight-fitting lid. To use, just place a small amount (about 1-2 tablespoons worth) on your each of your feet and massage, making sure to get the rough spots. Scrub will keep for about 3-4 weeks, and yields around 3 ounces.

Store scrub in a cool and dry area. I often keep my scrub in the fridge. The coolness feels great on my sore feet. You also might want to add a scented oil to the scrub. Lavender is quite relaxing and peppermint or rosemary is more energizing. Also, you don't necessarily have to use coconut oil, which can be quite expensive. I've used a simple vegetable oil. You can also play around with the ingredient amounts to get the consistency you desire. Some prefer a scrub that is more oily and add more of the oil.

I'd like to thank Lauren and Janice Cox for this recipe, which I found in their book Eco-Beauty: Scrubs, Rubs, Masks and Bath Bombs for You and Your Friends. You can read my review of their book at Third Coast Digest.

DVD Watch: The Last Days of Disco (1998)

2011-07-05T16:22:00.002-05:00

Written and directed by Whit Stillman, The Last Days of Disco takes place in the early 1980s during the waning days of disco’s hey day.

The Last Days of Disco focuses on two recent college grads, Alice Kinnon (Chloe Sevigny) and Charlotte Pingress (Kate Beckinsale). They now live in Manhattan and work at a publishing house. Classmates at a prestigious east coast college, Alice and Charlotte seem to be friends more out of convenience, not actual affection. If Sex and the City had been around at the time you would call Alice and Charlotte “frenemies.”

After work, Alice and Charlotte spend their nights at Manhattan nightclubs socializing with the upper-crust elite and looking for fun and romance. Alice is quiet, soft spoken and intelligent. Charlotte is outgoing and spirited, but quite conceited. And she never fails to give Alice advice on men and dating. Desperate, Alice takes this advice even though it screws her up.

Alice and Charlotte strike up a friendship with Des (Chris Eigeman) an employee of one of their favorite clubs. Des is quite the ladies’ man but claims to be gay once a relationship sours. Alice and Charlotte also find romance at the club, often with men who turn out to not be Mr. Right. Charlotte dates a man named Josh (Matt Keeslar) even though he really wants to be with Alice. And Alice has a one night stand with a lawyer named Tom (Robert Sean Leonard), who leaves her with a venereal disease.

Despite their “frenemy” relationship, Alice and Charlotte decide to move in together. Realizing their parents’ generosity can only go so far, they take in another roommate, Holly (Tara Subkoff). Holly may be Alice and Charlotte’s roommate, but she never quite becomes their friend. Alice and Shannon often question Holly’s intelligence and choices in men.

All this closeness proves to be too much for Alice and Charlotte, and they soon part ways after a bitter conflict. Charlotte commiserates with Des, claiming her personality is just too much for mousy girls like Alice. But things look up for Alice once she starts dating Josh.

The Last Days of Disco isn’t so much about action and plot as it is about relationships, feelings and catching a singular moment of time. Remember it was the early 1980s. The glamorous and glittery debauchery of the 1970s was starting to look cheap, tawdry and despondent. Soon AIDS would haunt our sexual consciousness, and before long school children everywhere would claim, “Just say no” when it came to drugs.

Like many other coming of age films, The Last Days of Disco examines the idea of young people “finding themselves.” Characters, who at turns seem so sure of themselves, question their choices in love, careers and friendship. And the social dynamic between Alice and Charlotte is quite familiar to anyone who found themselves hanging out with people they didn’t really like but felt they needed them as some kind of life raft during uncertain times.

The Last Days of Disco is considered the final chapter of Whit Stillman’s self-proclaimed “Doomed-Bourgeois-in-Love-Series,” which also included Metropolitan and Barcelona. All the performances ring true, and Chloe Sevigny is especially affective as the self-effacing Alice.

Some people might be put off by a movie focusing well-to-do elites, but these are no Gossip Girls or Kardashians. Alice and Charlotte’s difficulty in navigating a confusing world ring true whether you grew up in with a silver spoon or on a steady diet of cheap mac n’ cheese.

Music Review: Tunes I've Been Listening To

2011-07-02T10:52:00.013-05:00

Summer is finally here and we’re enjoying our Fourth of July week-end. Here is a list of “summer” songs that I love to listen to once the temperature goes up.

Nothing kicks off the season like “It Must Be Summer” by Fountains of Wayne. Has it really been two years since I saw them in concert?

Get out your rubber bracelets and lace gloves; here is Madonna’s “Into the Groove."

Has it really been nearly 20 years since “Tennessee” by Arrested Development was a hit? And though Speech now lives in Atlanta he remains true to his Milwaukee roots by coming back to Milwaukee to sell Robby’s Roast Corn at Summerfest.

Whatever happened to Bananarama? I loved them! Here is a “Cruel Summer.” This is dedicated to my friend Nora who is having an "eventful" summer so far.

My sister and I had the soundtrack to the movie Grease and this list wouldn’t be complete without John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John singing "Summer Nights." Oh, and RIP Jeff “Kenickie’ Conaway.

LMFAO's "Party Rock Anthem" is my summer jam of 2011!

Glee’s second season was a bit touch and go for me (sadly, mostly go) but I’ll never forget how excited I got about this show when I saw the pilot and the fledgling New Directions sang Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.” I must have listened to it 863 times that summer.

NEWS FLASH!!! Chord Overstreet who played Sam Evans on Glee will not be back for another season, well, at least not as continuing character. I thought Sam showed potential as a character, and Chord can sing. Plus, I liked it how he and Mercedes (Amber Riley) started dating at the end of the second season.

If Glee needs to get rid of a character why not get rid of Lauren Zizes (Ashley Fink)? Lauren is rude, obnoxious, can't sing or dance and is always looking down on New Directions. Plus, she looks like slapped ass! If Glee needs to concentrate on a "big" girl why not focus more on Mercedes? She can actually sing and she's very pretty. Ryan Murphy is such a massive tool.

Summer Reads: Class Reunion by Rona Jaffe

2011-06-29T14:06:00.004-05:00

If you’re looking for a fun, quick, juicy read you can’t go wrong reading anything by Rona Jaffe. Ms. Jaffe is her generation’s Carrie Bradshaw. She chronicled the love lives of women coming of age in the prim and prudish 1950s where gay men were still on the down low, straight men were all cads and women were pretty much expected to go to college and the workplace to find a husband.

I must have read my mom’s copy of Class Reunion when I was a middle school, and at the time it was probably pretty salacious to my 13-year-old brain. By today’s standards where any kid can access porn from the Internet, Class Reunion is probably pretty tame stuff. However, it’s also an engrossing, entertaining and page-turning read.

Class Reunion follows four main characters during their years at Radcliffe and the years after they graduate. Anabel is a high-spirited and flirtatious Southern belle. Chris is the mousy intellectual. Emily is insecure and eager to please. And Daphne is the campus golden girl. However, all of them have their trials and tribulations like anybody else.

Anabel, Chris, Emily and Daphne pretty much arrive at Radcliffe with one thing in mind. Marriage! Sure, they all desire getting an education, but having available men at nearby Harvard is just an added bonus. A Harvard man? Be still my heart!

As I mentioned, Class Reunion begins in the 1950s, a time of white gloves and pearls. Women were supposed to aspire to be wives and mothers and they better be virgins on their wedding night! Of course, plenty of people had sexy time before their nuptials. And in Class Reunion a few characters indulge in carnal delights. Anabel, the Blanche Devereaux of the group, is one of the first to have sex, and is immediately branded a whore. And mousy Chris sleeps with Alexander who she later finds out is keeping a deep, dark secret. Emily falls in love with an aspiring doctor, and Daphne tries to hold on to her golden girl status hoping nobody will find out she has epilepsy.

All the women do find love as graduation appears. And they believe marriage, children and life in suburbia will be blissful. But of course, following a linear path so in-grained in the 1950s course doesn’t come to fruition. And the upheavals of the 1960s and 1970s definitely affect our heroines. Daphne gives birth to a child with Down ’s syndrome. Chris’ husband Alexander is totally gay. Anabel's bestie, Max, is brutally murdered. And Emily realizes being a doctor’s wife isn’t exactly a picnic.

The Radcliffe grads meet once again at their 20th class reunion. They are older, maybe wiser and try to come to grips of how life has changed for themselves and the world around them.

Class Reunion is hardly groundbreaking. And the characters fit into stereotypical female archetypes found in everything from the Golden Girls to Sex in the City. In fact, while writing this I kept thinking to myself, “Okay, Chris is the Miranda. Emily is neurotic like Carrie. Daphne reminds me of Charlotte. And Anabel is totally Samantha.” Still, Class Reunion is the perfect retro chick-lit and a great summer read.

Announcing New Series: Make Shit Yourself

2011-06-27T13:52:00.003-05:00

It's not a secret I'm one crafty broad. I make my own soap and other assorted bath and beauty products. I've been designing beaded jewelry for quite a while. I even made my friend Kristine a jewelry box for her birthday.

Beyond my crafting, I try to make my own meals instead of going out, and in the past year I have perfected my own soup stocks/broths and I also learned to make my own Chai tea mix (I love Chai tea).

I have friends who garden, knit, sew and a host of other tasks that are creative, frugal and often quite essential.

So to celebrate this, I am starting a new series called "Make Shit Yourself." Hmm, how is that for an attention-grabber? Periodically, I will post things you can easily make yourself or I will provide links to things other people make. And of course, I look forward to any suggestions and feedback.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-06-24T12:23:00.004-05:00

Anderson Cooper comments on the Courtney Staddon/Doug Hutchinson nuptials.

So adorable! Mini-Glee Warbler is back!

The guys who founded MySpace barely use MySpace.

Here is a list of the world's weirdest monuments. Hey, don't talk smack about the bronz Fonz!

My friend Carrie wrote a fun piece on dating and money.

Ian from Xtician writes about TV moments that happened just at the right time.

Great Moments in Gen X History: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)

2011-06-20T09:17:00.006-05:00

Can you believe the much beloved movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is now 40 years old? It seems just yesterday my sister and I were sitting in front of the television, transported to a world of candy, Oompa Loompas, bratty kids who get their just desserts and of course, the mysterious Willy Wonka. My sister and I loved this movie and we watched every broadcast.

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is based on the classic Roald Dahl book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Played by Gene Wilder in the film, Willy Wonka is the reclusive proprietor of a world-famous chocolate factory. In the beginning, Willy Wonka makes a huge announcement. He is granting five lucky people a chance to tour his factory, learn some of his tricks of the candy trade and win a lifetime of free chocolate. The catch? You must first purchase a chocolate Wonka bar, and if one of those bars has a golden ticket, you are a winner. The world loses its collective shit and the media goes wild for the story (and this is the pre-Internet days). Who will win the golden ticket?

One person who would love to win a golden ticket is Charlie Bucket (Peter Ostrum). Charlie is good hearted but his family is broke. Even buying a simple candy bar could put a dent in the Bucket family budget. But somehow Charlie gets the money, and he purchases a Wonka bar. Charlie rips open the chocolate bar with anticipation, and low and behold, there lies a shining golden ticket!

However, before Charlie arrives at Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, he is offered a proposal by the devious Arthur Slugworth, the owner of a rival chocolate factory. Slugworth wants Charlie to steal Wonka’s secret recipes, most ideally, Wonka’s recipe for his latest creation the everlasting gobstopper. Will Charlie succumb to Slugworth’s shady plea, or will he stand by his convictions and not steal the recipe?

Being a minor, Charlie has to bring along a chaperone to tour Wonka’s chocolate factory. Charlie brings along his beloved Grandpa Joe played by the irascible Jack Albertson (yep, the “man” from Chico and the Man). Along for the tour are four other rather vile children, and their equally vile parents. First there is the gluttonous Augustus Gloop who doesn’t say much but sure loves to stuff his face. Violet Beauregard talks a mile a minute and is always chomping on a piece of gum. Mike TeeVee is obsessed with television and pop culture (wait, this is a bad thing?). But most odious of all is Veruca Salt, a spoiled, entitled brat. Hmm, if Veruca existed today she’d probably have her own reality show on Bravo.

Willy Wonka meets the winners and their adult chaperones at his factory’s elaborate gates. After freaking everyone out by pretending to be feeble, falling, and then finishing his “fall” with the perfect somersault, Wonka invites Charlie and the gang into the factory. Before anyone can go further they must read and sign a very elaborate contract, which pretty much looks like the contract you had to sign when you got your credit card. Now it’s on to the tour of the magical Wonka factory.

The first room the winners visit is a totally edible garden with flowers, mushrooms and a chocolate river. The winners also meet the Oompa Loompas, Wonka’s vertically-challenged, green-haired, orange-skinned helpers. Veruca Salt tells her daddy, “I want an Oompa Loompa right now” because she’s a snotty bitch, and you pretty much realize she is going to work your last nerve. However, it is Augustus Gloop who is the first to be eliminated from the tour when he falls into the chocolate river and gets sucked up in a large tube.

Still, the tour goes on. The winners and their chaperones visit magical room after magical room. They even go on a crazy boat road right out of a bad acid trip (it was the 1970s). Throughout the tour, the kids misbehave and are punished. Even Charlie gets up to some mischief. He and Grandpa Joe sneak into a room to try some Fizzy Lifting drinks, and start floating up towards a menacing whirling fan on the ceiling. Will they be beheaded? Fortunately, Charlie and Grandpa Joe find out belching will help them get their feet back on the ground, and they join the othes on the tour.

At the end of the tour, only Charlie is left. However, Wonka finds out about the Fizzy Lifting drink fiasco, and he is pissed! He denies Charlie the ultimate prize because he defied the contract’s rules. Charlie turns to leave dejected, but not before he hands Wonka the Ultimate Gopstopper he swiped to give to Slugworth.

But all is not lost! Wonka turns to Charlie and tells him, “You won!” It turns out Slugworth is not rival and a spy; he’s actually one of Wonka’s employees and his name is Wilkinson. The Everlasting Gobstopper predicament was actually a test, and Charlie passed!

As the movie ends, Wonka leads Charlie and Grandpa Joe to the “Wonka-vator.” The Wonka-vator is an elevator that goes up, down and in all other directions. The Wonka-vator blasts through the factory’s ceiling and flies over the city below. It is at this time Wonka tells Charlie that the factory is his once Wonka retires.

I loved Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory as a kid, but I saw it again as an adult and I loved it even more. There is something so subversive about it, but at the end the good kid wins out. Sure, Charlie isn’t perfect but his heart is in the right place. And the bad kids are punished which totally fills me with schadenfreude. Jeff Gordinier even covers this in his book X Saves the World: How Generation X Got the Shaft but Can Still Keep from Everything Sucking.

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory was later remade in 2005 and starred Johnny Depp. Now I love Johnny Depp, but to me, Gene Wilder owns the role of Willy Wonka, and I’m sure most Gen X-ers will agree with me.

And while doing research for this piece I found out some interesting trivia. Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt) and Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregard) totally crushed on Peter Ostrum. I can’t say I blame them. He was adorable. And speaking of Peter Ostrum, Charlie Bucket was his first and last film role. He’s now a veterinarian.

What else? The flower-shaped cup Willy Wonka drinks from in an early scene was made from wax (ew). However, many of the props found on the set like the giant mushrooms were edible. Jean Stapleton was slated to play Mike TeeVee’s mom but had to back out due to another acting role. You probably know her best as Edith Bunker from the 1970s classic TV show All in the Family. And Julie Dawn Cole admits to hating chocolate!

I don’t have kids, but I do have a niece and nephew. And I’d love to share Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory with them. And I bet there are a lot of Gen X parents and aunties and uncles who have done just that.

More on Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

IMDB Page

Rotten Tomatoes Site

Facebook Appreciation Page

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Cast Reunion

Glee Kids Singing "Pure Imagination"

Summer Read: I'm With the Band by Pamela Des Barres

2011-06-17T08:21:00.007-05:00

Summer will be here in less than a week, and when the weather gets warmer, it’s the perfect time for fun reads. Here is a review of the deliciously juicy I’m With the Band by Pamela Des Barres. A while back I wrote a review for Ms. Des Barres’ Let’s Spend the Night Together.

Before Pamela Des Barres was known as a writer and the now ex-wife of rocker Michael Des Barres, she was a Pamela Miller, a girl from Reseda, California who lived for rock and roll and wanted to be around all of that musical energy. However, she didn’t just go to concerts and hang up posters of the Beatles on her bedroom wall. “Miss Pamela,” as she was later nicknamed, actually met many of her favorite rock stars, had relationships with them, and lived to tell the tale.

Pamela got hooked on rock and roll at a very young age. She loved singer Dion, the Beatles and later became a fan of the Rolling Stones, which made her a bit of pariah among her friends who found the Stones dirty and repugnant. Before long Pamela ditched the bouffant for long hippied goddess tendrils and fully embraced the counter-culture lifestyle.

Whereas Pamela’s high school classmates went off to college or to the work place after graduation, Pamela hightailed it to Hollywood and joined the scene. Getting close to musicians was a lot easier in the 1960s and it wasn’t long before Pamela started meeting people like the Doors (she made out with Jim Morrison), Frank Zappa, and the Byrds.

Macking on Jim Morrison was a fleeting moment, but Frank Zappa and the Byrds truly became a part of Pamela’s life. Pamela befriended Frank’s wife Gail and later acted as a nanny to the Zappa’s young children. Blown away by Pamela and her friends’ unique style and energy, Frank turned them into the GTOs (Girls Together Outrageously). The GTOs weren’t so much a band as they were a living and breathing piece of performance art.

As for the Byrds, Pamela fell hard for bass player Chris Hillman. Pamela and Chris struck up an on-and-off again romance, and Pamela later followed Chris after the Byrds broke up and Chris formed The Flying Burrito Brothers.

Pamela had romances, dalliances and hook-ups with other musicians and famous folks. Among them included Keith Moon, Mick Jagger and Waylon Jennings. She loses her virginity to Nick St. Nicholas from Steppenwolf. And has her first orgasm with Noel Redding who was in the Jimi Hendrix Experience. And she also nearly gets her hands on the King himself, Elvis Presley!

Pamela falls hard for Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin and he flies her all over the United States until dumping her for Lori Maddox who was all of 13 at the time. Poor Pamela, who must have been in her early twenties, felt ancient against the pubescent Maddox. How could she possibly compete?

Pamela also has a romance with a pre-Miami Vice Don Johnson who later takes up with a very young Melanie Griffith (damn, what is up with men and their obsession with adolescent tail?). Interestingly, enough Pamela remains friendly with Mr. Johnson and she and Melanie have become total besties. Pamela doesn’t allow bitterness to get the best of her.

When Pamela wasn’t indulging in carnal delights, she tried her hand at acting, traveled all over the United States and Europe and pretty much tried to find herself during the turbulent 1960s and 1970s. She admits to experimenting with drugs. Fortunately for her, drugs never took the toll they did on others and she escaped being a casualty.

As Pamela approaches her thirties she begins to embrace maturity. She marries rocker Michael Des Barres and they have a son, Nicholas. Though the marriage doesn’t last (Pamela covers this in her follow-up Take Another Piece of My Heart), she and Michael remain friends. Pamela continues to write and is considered quite an inspiration to groupies and rock fans everywhere.

What I love about I’m With The Band is how it gives me a front row seat to a time I can only imagine. Pamela doesn’t just give the reader a sneak peek; she flings the curtain wide open and nearly shouts, “Take a look, dolls!” We get a glimpse of the good, bad and ugly rock and roll excess. Plus, in an age where reality show starlets think sex tapes are the road to fame and congressmen text their junk, Pamela’s sexual exploits are downright quaint!

But what truly makes I’m With the Band Work is Pamela’s strong writing. It’s honest and descriptive, with a fun, gossipy flair. And Pamela’s never afraid to show her real self, sharing her personal journal entries, which could be quite cringe-inducing. And despite heartbreak and the loss of friends, Pamela remains an optimist and a total sweetie. She’s a lover of men, a supporter of women and still believes in the power of rock and roll.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: Doing it Vintage

2011-06-13T12:23:00.003-05:00

Third Coast Digest is doing a summer reading series on staffers' favorite books. I wrote about the Judy Blume classic Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret and it's now on-line. Enjoy!

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-06-07T14:02:00.005-05:00

Blue-eyed doll Andy Coop proves why being a Vanderbilt trumps being a Hilton.

So adorbs! Aspiring pint-sized Dalton Warbler covers "Teenage Dream."

Here is the list of the 10 most powerful women authors. Keep in mind that powerful doesn't exactly mean talented (Stephenie Meyer, I'm looking in your direction).

Call me a pearl-clutching prude, but I am totally TEAM REESE WITHERSPOON! You tell them, Reese.

Between Congressman Weiner texting his junk (yes, the jokes write themselves) and this skank who got kicked out of an Austin movie theater for texting, I think we need to step back from our cell phones a wee bit.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: Can You Take Any More Fabulousness?

2011-06-01T07:57:00.006-05:00

"...Is that braggy? I don't mean it to be braggy."-Pam Beesly-The Office

My article on local artist Amy Misurelli Sorensen and her upcoming exhibit at Milwaukee's Luckystar Studio for Third Coast Digest has been published. After a year of writing mostly reviews, this is my first feature piece.

Gen X Profiles: Tina Fey (1970)

2011-05-27T14:03:00.006-05:00

Tina Fey just might be one of the most talented and accomplished women of her generation. She’s a notable writer, producer, and actress. She’s won many awards, including Emmys, Golden Globes, SAG awards and was feted last year with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

But before she was Tina Fey, she was Elizabeth Stamatina Fey from Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. After she graduated from high school, Fey attended the University of Virginia receiving a BA in drama. She originally planned to do graduate work at DePaul in drama, but instead got involved with improvisational comedy by studying at the iconic Second City in Chicago.

Taking classes at Second City was a catalyst that fueled Fey’s comedic career. Before long, she joined the cast of Second City and performed eight shows a week. Fey claims it was her improv training and performing that truly influenced her as an actress because of its give and take aspects with one’s improv partner.

But Fey’s also wanted to write comedy, and while at Second City she submitted several comedy sketches to Saturday Night Live. Lorne Michaels, SNL creator, liked Fey’s writing style and hired her as a writer. Though she struggled early in her SNL career, Fey soon hit her stride, writing hilarious sketches and parodies including those that skewered the talk show The View. In 1999, Fey made history when she was appointed the first female head writer at SNL.

As for acting on SNL, Fey started out as an extra but by 2000 was acting regularly. She and Jimmy Fallon became co-anchors on SNL’s “Week-end Update. Fey’s ability to combine snarkiness with a sunny attitude made “Weekend Update” a highlight. Amy Poehler took over for Fallon when he left in 2004. It was the first time two women hosted “Weekend Update” and it proved to be a big hit.

Despite her success with SNL, Fey decided to leave the show after the 2005-2006 season to create the NBC sitcom 30 Rock. On 30 Rock Fey plays Liz Lemon the much put-upon head writer of comedic variety television show. Lemon is the perfect straight women surrounded by crazy characters, and 30 Rock is a critical hit winning many awards.

However, Fey remains faithful to her SNL roots and came back as guest host several times. However, it was her portrayal of Sarah Palin that proved to be a big hit, and this portrayal helped her win an Emmy as best guest actress in a comedy in 2009.

Fey doesn’t keep her talent just to television. She’s also worked in movies like Baby Mama, Date Night and Megamind. Fey wrote and starred in the teen comedy Mean Girls featuring a pre-messed up Lindsay Lohan. Fey based the comedy on her own high school experience and the non-fiction book Queen Bees and Wannabes by Rosalind Wiseman.

Fey’s success has recently extended to the world of publishing. Her book Bossypants is a huge critical and commercial, and is currently at the top of the New York Time’s best-seller list.

Fey is married to Jeff Richmond who is a musical composer on 30 Rock. They have a daughter named Alice. Fey just announced she is pregnant with her second child and is due to give birth later this summer.

Tina Fey's IMDB Page

Tina Fey Fan

Tina Fey on YouTube

WTF Files: Greed-I Haz It

2011-05-23T14:46:00.003-05:00

Longer Title: "Christian" Queen of the Interwebs Grifts and Grabs While Others Struggle in Squalor and Strife

Meet Kelly Crawford, one of the biggest stars of the “fundie” blogosphere. Her blog is named Generation Cedar, and if you take a gander at her blog you’ll notice Mrs. Crawford has some rather “strong” views towards public schools, birth control, women who work outside the home, feminism, Christianity and social issues. And when I write “strong” I mean bitchy.

Late last month, tragedy happened to the Crawfords. Their family home was decimated due to the tornadoes down South. Now this is horrible. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy, but Kelly has a way of making the tornadoes all about herself and her strong faith in God, and not a catastrophe that caused people to lose their homes, livelihoods and sense of well-being (and let’s not forget many people also lost their lives).

Because of Kelly’s web fame, many of her fans and friends in the fundie circuit have been gathering donations for her and her brood. Now, this is very nice. It’s good to help our friends, especially after experiencing a disaster. But from reading Kelly’s blog, it seems like she’s so worthy of these donations because she’s the bestest Christian ever! She seems almost giddy that the tornado happened because it means she gets all these new goodies!!!

Kelly can’t even acknowledge how the tornadoes affected other people down south, those who are outside of her provincial circle. There is no half-assed comments or remarks about helping others by giving to the Red Cross or other notable charities. Nope, the tornadoes gave Kelly a chance to be coddled and catered to.

One phrase fundies like to use is “God will provide.” And yes, I do believe there are people whose faith inspires them to help others. But charitable donations don’t just fall out of Heaven. They are given by actual living human beings, and they should be given their props. Maybe fundies say “God will provide” because in a way it gets them off the hook to help others and pay their good fortune forward.

Most of Kelly’s commenters are totally kissing her ass; she’s so inspiring! But a couple of commenters defy Kelly and her minions. Cassandra comments on the unseemliness of so much money going to a few when so many people don’t even have the basics, and they need help too. 6 Arrows responds to in a long, convoluted post that drips with condescension. Shorter 6 Arrows: “You are a hater; get bent!”

Another commenter, Jennifer, questions how she and her family can donate kids clothes and other supplies to the “people of Alabama.” Now perhaps I’m dense, but I’m inferring Jennifer wants to help other victims, not just Kelly. One commenter tells Jennifer to send Kelly tools or have a garage sale and sent the proceeds to Kelly. Wow, it really is all about Kelly.

Now, the folks at Ladies Against Feminism (nope, I did not make that up) are having a drive for Kelly, and another family, the Lees, who I have more sympathy for because they lost a family member. Ladies Against Feminism wants people to donate fabric, decorative items and money for new, expensive sewing machines. There are people down South standing in the heat and humidity just to get food and water. People are sleeping on mattresses in shelters. Furthermore, most people don’t have laptops, blogs and Internet fame to brag about their “blessings.” And we’re supposed to raise money so people can have expensiveBaby Lock sewing machines? Oh, and if any of you are interested in helping Kelly redecorate, her color scheme featured “cheerful touches of scarlet.”

All of this just angers me so much-the boasting, the arrogance and the lack of compassion for anyone else. I know very well most of these people have no problem with taking charity from “Godless heathens,” but they’ll be damned before they help anyone outside of their little circle. If something bad happens to the heathens it’s because they’re gay or because they use birth control. Unlike Kelly, they are unworthy.

Now Kelly has a new post up bragging about her blessings and how the tornado was so wicked awesome, which she illustrates with an picture of a heart-shaped tornado. Once again, WTF?

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights 2: Electric Boogaloo!

2011-05-20T13:37:00.002-05:00

Less than a week ago my friend Carrie published a post I wrote about making soap at her blog. Well, just today I sold my first bars of homemade soap. Thank you so much to Alan Friedman for being my first customer. And thanks to Carrie for providing me the hook-up.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: A Potpourri of Greatness

2011-05-18T08:00:00.004-05:00

Hi everybody. As some of you know I'm an avid crafter, and I just have to show off the jewelry box I made for my friend Kristine. I watch a lot of the Canadian craft show She's Crafty hosted by the delightful Wendy Russell. On one show she and a guest made jewelry boxes out of old cigar boxes. I got totally inspired and made one for Kristine's birthday. I think it's pretty good considering it's the first jewelry box I ever made.

Also, my friend Carrie has a new blog called Heartland Living on a Budget. She asked me to write a guest post about making soap, and here it is. I really appreciate Carrie doing this, and I've added her blog to my "Links I Love Section."

I might also have some good news about my soap making, but I'll refrain from spilling the beans because things are still in development.

And do gas prices have you blue (I know-stupid question), well Carrie gave a shout out to Kristine and and article she wrote how she got by without a car. Enjoy!

Teen Screening: Dazed and Confused (1993)

2011-05-11T09:13:00.003-05:00

In Richard Linklater’s Dazed and Confused it is 1976 and the last day of school at Lee High School. The soon-to-be high school seniors are preparing for a right of passage-hazing the incoming freshman. And newly minted junior high grads are hoping they won’t be hazed, which usually includes getting paddled, stripping down to one’s underwear and other acts of humiliation.

The assorted characters are familiar to anyone who went to highschool-jocks, stoners, nerds and bullies. Mitch Kramer (Wiley Wiggins) and his best buddy, Carl Burnett (Esteban Powell) try in vain to escape the hazing. Jason London, as popular jock Randall “Pink” Floyd, is reticent about signing a pledge saying he won’t do drugs. Pink’s older friend, David Wooderson (Matthew McConaughey, sporting a cheesy mustache) still hangs out with the high school kids, hoping to score with teen girls. And a group of nerds try to get involved with the day’s activities.

As the last day of school progresses into evening students hang out at a pool hall, smoke some weed, cruise the neighborhood, bash mailboxes, go to impromptu keg parties, hook up with the opposite sex and pretty much try to alleviate the kind of boredom only a small town can bring. The kids also try to get back at Fred O’Bannion (Ben Affleck), the worst of the hazers.

Based on a Led Zeppelin song of the same name, Dazed and Confused perfectly captures the boredom, aimlessness and desire for fun that many teens experience. And though it takes place in a year when most Generation X-ers were either little kids or not even born yet, it’s pretty relatable (especially if you grew up in a small town). Like his iconic debut, Slacker, Linklater doesn’t strive to teach a lesson or make his characters tragically misunderstood. They’re just teens doing teen things.

Dazed and Confused didn’t quite strike it big at the box office but it has become a cult hit on DVD and some movie theaters feature it at midnight showings. A majority of the cast is still making movies today. Some, like Ben Affleck and Matthew McConaughey,have become huge stars. And Linklater continues to make movies.

Dazed and Confused is a fun movie, and boasts a kick ass soundtrack. However, I’d tell most guys that growing a mustache like the one Matthew McConaughey sports is not a good idea.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-05-07T10:17:00.003-05:00

I triple dog dare ya to listen to Glee's version of the Rebecca Black classic "Friday."

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler-Rockin' it Jersey Shore style!

President Obama's Facebook feed.

Go on reality TV and get divorced? Yep, I'm seeing a pattern, too.

And in honor of Mother's Day (love and blessings to all the mamas out there) Salon names the movies that actually get motherhood.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: I Got Published!

2011-04-09T10:27:00.004-05:00

Third Coast Digest published my review of the fun Pamela Klaffke novel Every Little Thing. Let me know what you think. Ms. Klaffke also wrote the quite enjoyable Snapped.

Retro Reels: A Place in the Sun (1951)

2011-04-04T10:30:00.007-05:00

In the drama A Place in the Sun, Montgomery Clift plays George Eastman. Though related to a rich industrialist named Charles Eastman, George is looked down upon because his family is poor. Still, that doesn't stop him from taking a job in his uncle’s factory. George hopes his work ethic will impress his uncle so he can work his way up, and also work his way into his uncle's upper crust world.

Though dating co-workers is strictly verboten, George starts dating fellow factory worker Alice Tripp (Shelly Winters). Alice is plain-looking and poor but truly smitten by George and his connections to his wealthy uncle even though George's connections seem to be in name only.

Despite dating Alice, George falls in love with Angela Vickers (Elizabeth Taylor in her first adult role) after meeting her at a party. Angela is not only beautiful she is also from a wealthy family. Dating Angela brings George closer to the upper crust world he always desired.

However, Alice is hardly out of the picture, and it isn't before long she announces she is pregnant with George’s child. She believes this will prompt George to marry her. Not surprisingly, George is not happy with this idea, especially since he is in love with Angela. He tells Alice to have an abortion but she refuses. She figures since George is getting closer to his uncle's world of wealth, he’ll have no problem supporting a wife and child.

Alice soon sees a newspaper of photo of George and Angela and realizes he is cheating on her. Alice confronts George, threatening to tell everyone about what is going on between them and about the pregnancy. He better marry her or else.

To save face, George takes Alice to the local city hall for a quick elopement. However, it is Labor Day week-end and city hall is closed. Instead of ditching Alice, George convinces her they should visit a nearby lake. Not quite realizing what George has in mind, Alice agrees.

While renting a boat under a false name, George acts nervous. Finding out there are no people on the lake George thinks this might be a good time to murder Alice and dispose of her body. With Alice out of the picture George is free to continue dating Angela and free from marrying Alice.

However, once Alice tells George how excited she is about their future and the upcoming birth of their child. George has a change of heart. He can't murder Alice. He must do the right thing and marry her. But when Alice stands up in the boat, the boat capsizes, and Alice does drown.

George, however, is safe, and he swims to shore. He goes to Angela's family lake home and struggles to keep the story of Alice's drowning a secret. But before long Alice's body is discovered and her drowning is ruled a homicide.

With a great deal of evidence stacked against him George is arrested for Angela’s death. This happens just as George is going to ask for Angela's hand in marriage.

Though George is innocent, the evidence is overwhelming. He tries to explain what lead up to Alice's accidental drowning, but the prosecutor (Raymond Burr) aggressively pulls apart George's testimony. The prosecutor convinces the jury that George committed first degree murder and the jury finds him guilty. George is sentenced to the electric chair.

As George faces his last days he pours his heart out in a letter to Angela. He claims he did not kill Alice but her drowning was perhaps his only way to leave his poor, underprivileged past behind and start fresh with Angela.

A Place in the Sun is lushly filmed in black and white, and its romantic scenes are unbelievably passionate and erotic. Elizabeth Taylor's beauty is beyond compare and she and Montgomery Clift have electric chemistry that leaps off the screen. A Place in the Sun was nominated for nine Oscars and won six, including a best director Oscar for George Stevens.

Based on the Theodore Dreiser novel, An American Tragedy, A Place in the Sun highlights the huge gap between rich and poor, even among family members. It also conveys how one's ambition, and obsession with money and status can make people consider doing horrible things. A Place in the Sun also shows how people can be victims and victimize others.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-04-02T11:18:00.013-05:00

No, just no. Baby clothes parents should avoid.

So much fun! Stephen Colbert (and others) take on the Rebecca Black classic, "Friday."

Elizabeth Taylor's lost interview with Rolling Stone.

The ever insightful Music Obsessive muses on the forgotten art of writing lyrics.

Must every TV show offer a musical episode?

DVD Watch: Catfish (2010)

2011-03-30T11:13:00.003-05:00

If it’s on the Internet it must be true, right? And it’s a really great way to connect with others and maybe even find true love, right? No, not always. And the documentary Catfish examines this in a way that is intriguing, mortifying, funny and quite engrossing.

Catfish, made by film makers Ariel Schulman and Henry Joost, is about Schulman’s younger brother, Nev. Nev is a photographer specializing in taking photos of dancers. One of these photos catches the eye of a young girl named Abby who lives in Michigan. Abby sends Nev a painting she made of one of his photographs. Intrigued, Nev friends Abby on Facebook. Soon Abby’s entire family is Facebook friends with Nev including Abby’s mom Angela and her older sister Megan.

Before long Nev is learning more about Abby’s family. He even calls the family home. But it’s Megan who truly grabs Nev’s heart. Megan is only 19, has just purchased a horse farm and is a talented photographer, dancer and singer. She’s also drop dead gorgeous so it’s not surprising Nev is smitten.

Nev strikes up a cyber romance with Megan, and he also talks to her several times on the phone. He even photoshops himself into a picture of Megan. Yes, cheesy but love makes us do stupid things. But it’s when Megan sends Nev songs she recorded, he begins to have his suspicions about her. Nev decides to search for the lyrics in Megan’s songs. That’s when he finds out the songs are sung by other singers, singers that sound very much like Megan. Nev is hurt. Even though he never met Megan face-to-face, he thought he could trust her. He feels totally betrayed. He truly believed Megan was the girl for him. He even shares some “sexting” he had with her to the audience. The “sexts” are so embarrassing, Nev rightly hides under the covers after he shares them.

On the way back from a photo shoot in Vail, Colorado, Nev, Ariel and Henry decide to visit Michigan and find Megan, Abby and Angela. They stop at what they believe is Megan’s horse farm, and find no horses. They later find Angela’s house. Angela hardly looks like the beautiful women on her Facebook page. She’s overweight and dumpy. And she keeps coming up with convoluted stories on why the guys can’t meet Megan.

But it’s not long before Nev finds out the truth about Megan, and the intricate web Angela has woven. Nev is upset, but never expresses any anger at Angela. Instead he finds her to be a confused, lonely and overwhelmed woman (she’s the main caretaker of her two severely disabled stepsons). Angela inspires empathy in Nev, and she also inspires empathy in the audience.

There has been talk that Catfish itself is a hoax, a “mockumentary” if you will. I, myself, am on the fence. I did think it was odd a grown man would friend an eight-year-old girl on Facebook. And don’t you have to be 13 to get a Facebook account? I also find it odd that the enigmatic Megan could afford a horse farm at the tender age of 19.

Still, I found Catfish, whether real, fake or somewhere in-between, to be a fascinating film and a thought provoking commentary on the lengths people will make to connect with others. Is it live or is it Facebook?

Guilty Pleasure Movies: The Boys and Girls Guide to Getting Down (2005)

2011-03-26T14:10:00.002-05:00

Do you want to know why it’s better to snort coke off of fake breasts instead of real breasts? Do you wonder why some straight men become “fauxmosexuals” to pick up chicks? And just what is an “after party?” Well, these questions (and more) are all answered in the guilty pleasure gem The Boys and Girls Guide to Getting Down.

The Boys and Girls Guide to Getting Down takes an anthropological look at LA’s club scene. Using a format reminiscent of those cheesy educational films we saw in school (if TMZ.com made educational films), the movie utilizes live action, graphical diagrams and “knowledgeable” narrators. You know they are knowledgeable” because one of them has a British accent. Among the informative “chapters” you will learn the following:

• Getting past the velvet rope
• What certain drinks make smart girls stupid
• The importance of determining the difference between good and bad drugs
• How to get rid of a sexual hook-up once daylight arrives
• And so much more!!!

With a cast of unknowns (other than a brief cameo by the guy who played the principal on Saved by the Bell), The Boys and Girls Guide to Getting Down follows these club go-ers from their initial getting ready rituals ‘til the moment they wake up with hangovers after a night of revelry. These unknowns aid the slightly mockumentary feel of the movie. The assorted collection of sleazebags, sluts, losers, punks and druggies are the kind of people who probably see the Jersey Shore kids role models, not cautionary tales.

I couldn’t help but laugh out loud while watching this movie, even though at times I wanted to clutch the pearls in shock. Some of you might recognize yourself (or at least your youth) in their shenanigans. And some of you will give be grateful you never quite partied this hard. The Boys and Girls Guide to Getting Down is a gloriously fun and trashy movie, and possibly a how-to for people who really want to PARTY! The party scene, whether in LA or even in my hometown of Milwaukee, is always perfect for mocking and The Boys and Girls Guide to Getting Down does it perfectly.

Elizabeth Taylor 1932-2011: The Last True Movie Star

2011-03-23T09:28:00.005-05:00

As you probably know, Elizabeth Taylor died earlier this morning at the age of 79. Though she had been in ill health for quite a long time, her death was still a bit of a shock. Somehow I thought a legend like Ms. Taylor would last forever.

Born in 1932, Ms. Taylor got her start as a child actress in movies like Lassie Come Home and National Velvet. She grew to be even a bigger star as an adult in movies like A Place in the Sun, Father of the Bride, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Giant and Cleopatra. She won two Oscars, one for Butterfield 8 and another for Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolf?.

Her life off screen was positively notorious. She married eight times, twice to actor Richard Burton. She was considered positively scandalous when she stole singer Eddie Fisher from actress Debbie Reynolds.

It’s not surprising men would be drawn to Ms. Taylor. Her beauty was almost too much, and she was most known for her gorgeous violet eyes. A Place in the Sun was the first Elizabeth Taylor movie I ever saw, and I couldn’t take my eyes off her. She was truly a movie star.

In her later years, she became known for her fragrances like White Diamonds. But probably her best role was on behalf of people with HIV and AIDS. She was devoted to AmFAR (American Foundation for AIDS Research), and worked tirelessly on funding AIDS research and bringing light to a disease most people wanted to ignore. She also created the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. She was later lauded for her charitable efforts, receiving numerous accolades. In 2000 Queen Elizabeth made Ms. Taylor into a Dame, the female equivalent of a Knight.

Elizabeth Taylor was one of a kind and will be missed. Her son Michael Wilding released the following statement:

"My Mother was an extraordinary woman who lived life to the fullest, with great passion, humor, and love. Though her loss is devastating to those of us who held her so close and so dear, we will always be inspired by her enduring contribution to our world. Her remarkable body of work in film, her ongoing success as a businesswoman, and her brave and relentless advocacy in the fight against HIV/AIDS, all make us all incredibly proud of what she accomplished. We know, quite simply, that the world is a better place for Mom having lived in it. Her legacy will never fade, her spirit will always be with us, and her love will live forever in our hearts."

Elizabeth Taylor's IMDB Page
AMFAR
Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2011-03-20T13:29:00.010-05:00

First the ladies shopped too much, and now we’re not shopping enough.

A case of not “Winning”-A bad Charlie Sheen tattoo. Bad Charlie Sheen tattoo? Isn't that redundant?

The best TV finales. Jim and Pam kissing in season two of The Office? Yes!

Maybe this is why I’m not enjoying Glee so much any more. Glee creator Ryan Murphy calls Gwyneth Paltrow his “muse.”

In other Glee news. Dave Grohl isn’t exactly a fan. And no-talent has-been, Victoria Jackson can STFU.

Paste names top shows a South by Southwest. And Duran Duran started their tour at SXSW. Looks like they are finally getting the respect I always thought they deserved.

Why do we find evil characters so sexy and glamorous?

Finally, a fellow childfree woman who likes kids.

Regarding Rebecca Black, the young girl who is being viciously mocked and bullied for her video, I got an idea. Hey, parents, instead of throwing money at a company that will write your kid an insipid pop song and make a cheesy video, why not pay for your kid to get singing lessons or get your kid involved in a local choir? Or is that too much work? Insta-fame at any cost, right?

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: I Got Published Again

2011-03-07T12:44:00.001-06:00

After a brief hiatus from writing book reviews, Third Coast Digest has published my review of Rob Sheffield's Talking to Girls About Duran Duran.

Just a Quickie: What's Better than Amy Rigby and France?

2011-02-16T15:33:00.004-06:00

Amy Rigby living in France!!!

Très bien!

Salon Names the Biggest Oscar Heists Ever

2011-01-29T11:41:00.005-06:00

As many of you know, the Oscar nominations were announced this past Tuesday. Most of the nominations weren't a big shocker, and pretty much everyone from movie critics to your Aunt Tilly have their picks on who will get Oscar gold this February 27th.

However, just because a movie or a performer gets an Oscar doesn't mean the Oscar is well-deserved. And Salon isn't afraid to name names. My Oscar WTF? Gwyneth Paltrow winning best actress over the vastly superior Cate Blanchett.

Yes, I'm Still Around

2011-01-18T16:23:00.002-06:00

As you’ve noticed it’s been a month since I’ve written a post for this blog. Granted, with the holidays I was quite busy, and this blog was hardly a top priority. But the holidays aren’t the only reason why I haven’t updated this blog. To be honest, pop culture just hasn’t excited me lately and I don’t feel I have any reason to write about it. So I’m going to take a break for now, perhaps for a couple of months. I will probably write posts intermittently once I start blogging again, but I just have other priorities that are more pressing right now. So thanks for reading. I appreciate it and your thoughtful comments. If you do find any pop culture goodies that you think deserve my attention, drop me a line. Perhaps I'll get around to writing about them.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That-Holiday Edition

2010-12-18T10:33:00.005-06:00

Gawker names the top ten most annoying Christmas songs, and yes, “Christmas Shoes” is on the list.

Will Ferrell and John C Reilly spoof the David Bowie/Bing Crosby mash-up “Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth.”

The best gifts for your favorite pop culture junkie.

Things you probably don’t know about your favorite Christmas movies. Wait! Jack Nicholson almost played the dad in my holiday favorite “A Christmas Story?” Sorry, but I can’t imagine it. The late Darren McGavin owned that role!

Ugly Christmas sweaters are now hip.

Awkward family Christmas photos (and by awkward I mean creepy).

Hey, anybody want a Christmas card made with pubic hair?

Slutty Christmas costumes-putting the “ho” in holiday.

Christmas crafting with Amy Sedaris and Stephen Colbert! I totally want to do shots with these people. They are so much fun!

What if Mary and Joseph had Facebook?

Tunes I've Been Listening To: Holiday Edition

2010-12-11T10:56:00.005-06:00

Can you believe Christmas is only two weeks away? One sure sign it’s almost Christmas is the endless loop of Christmas carols on the radio and on store PA systems. Sure, it can be too much at times, but there are some carols I never tire of hearing. The following are some of my favorites.

No one will call me the biggest Mariah Carey fan but I can’t help but feel Christmas truly gets kicked off the moment I first hear her “All I Want for Christmas is You.” Congrats on the pregnancy, Mimi!

This Christmas I’ll be celebrating the Yuletide with my sister and her family in Kansas City, MO. But some day I hope to celebrate Christmas in Hollis, Queens with Run-DMC.

Sisters Wendy and Carnie Wilson bring their beautiful harmonies with “Hey, Santa.”

Sir Bob Geldof has pretty much denounced the charity classic “Do They Know It's Christmas,” and though the song has been pretty much mocked over the years, I always look forward to it come Christmas time. And just look at all those mullets in the video! Aww, 80s nostalgia.

I loved that Glee had two guys sing “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Chris Colfer and Darren Criss sound amazing! I just wish their characters, Kurt and Blaine would have kissed at the end of the duet. I like my holiday hoyay!

Another holiday favorite-U2’s take on “Baby, Please Come Home.” And I like the black and white simplicity of the video.

This past Wednesday, December 8th, was the 30th anniversary of John Lennon’s murder. But I’d rather remember him for his wonderful music. Here is “Happy Christmas (War is Over).

Long before mash-ups were a gleam in Ryan Murphy’s eye, David Bowie and the late Bing Crosby gave me my very first mash-up with their heartfelt “Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth.”

Judy Garland’s heartbreaking “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” gets me every time.

Elvis Presley, encased in leather and looking hot as hell, singing “I’ll Have a Blue Christmas”

How can anyone hate Dolly Parton? It’s downright un-American. And I love her song “Hard Candy Christmas.” I’ve been told it’s not really a Christmas song, but screw it. I love it anyway.

Straight, No Chaser’s "12 days of Christmas" is pretty ubiquitous this time of year, but I always enjoy hearing it.

WTF Files: Boss Wants to Know When His Lady Workers are Having Their Periods

2010-12-02T20:45:00.001-06:00

A boss in Norway makes his female employees wear red bracelets to let everyone know they are menstruating and that’s why they are always using the bathroom.

Hmm, I bet my co-workers can tell when Aunt Flo has come for a visit because that’s when I wear baggier clothes and sheepishly try to hide a tampon in my pocket.

Red bracelets. They’re not just for people who study Kaballah. Seriously, WTF?

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2010-11-28T13:48:00.003-06:00

Willie Nelson gets busted for pot possession. In other words, water is wet.

Burn that ugly Christmas sweater! Third Coast Digest has some stylish tips to help you keep the season bright.

Lady Gaga, can Anderson Cooper be my drinking buddy, too?

She’s baaaack! Dr. Laura will resume her radio show via satellite radio. You can’t be Sirius!

Feminist bad ass, Amanda Marcotte, reads Sarah Palin’s latest “book” and lives to tell the tale.

Bono, the Edge and 60 Minutes give us a preview of the Broadway musical Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark.

On Milwaukee has a great interview with Art vs. Craft’s Faythe Levine (this woman is a rock star to me).

Reality TV and social networking just might not be a bad thing according to the author of Starstruck: The Business of Celebrity.

Great gifts for Gleeks!

The Recessionista’s take on the Lanvin collection for H & M. No, I’m not bitter that the Milwaukee H & M stores won’t be carrying this. Nope, not at all.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights

2010-11-27T13:15:00.004-06:00

Hello! I just got back from Art vs. Craft where I had a great time with my friends. The place was packed and the crafts were amazing, and yes, I got totally inspired to do some crafting myself.

Speaking of crafting, Third Coast Digest published my review of Vickie Howell's Craft Corps: Celebrating the Creative Community One Story at a Time. This book is full of interesting interviews with crafters all over the planet including Art vs. Craft's Faythe Levine. Enjoy!

Retro Reels: The Heiress (1949)

2010-11-26T07:35:00.002-06:00

Directed by William Wyler and based on the Henry James novel, Washington Square, The Heiress is a drama that examines the issues of love, revenge, heartbreak, mental cruelty, wealth and class. And it does in a way that makes you think how people’s lives could be different if they were born in another time or place.

Olivia de Havilland plays Catherine Sloper, the daughter of a wealthy doctor, played by Sir Ralph Richardson. Catherine’s mother died giving birth to her, and Dr. Sloper seemingly blames Catherine for his beautiful wife’s death. Catherine, on the other hand, is plain and awkward, and her father never fails to let her know what a disappointment she is to him.

Catherine seems to be destined to live her gilded cage as a lonely spinster when Morris Townsend (Montgomery Clift) comes along. Morris is handsome and dashing. He charms Catherine and lavishes loving attention on her that she never received from her father. Catherine gains confidence and begins to bloom as Morris courts her. However, Morris is penniless, and Dr. Sloper believes he’s only with Catherine to gain access to her inheritance. He can’t imagine anyone being interested in his daughter beyond her money.

Morris asks for Catherine’s hand in marriage, telling her they can elope. But Dr. Sloper tells Catherine if she marries Morris he will disinherit her and there is no way Morris can support her. Catherine doesn’t care. She’s convinced Morris truly loves her, not her potential inheritance. Morris finds out but claims it doesn’t matter whether Catherine gets her father’s money or not. They will marry.

Catherine awaits for Morris to whisk her away and marry her. But he disappears, breaking her heart. Catherine hopes her father will show her some kind of compassion. Instead, he cuts her down with vicious remarks. Catherine tells her father she would have married Morris even if all he cared about was her inheritance. After all, being loved for one’s money is better than being not loved at all.

Time passes, and Catherine’s heart hardens Her father dies, and leaves her his entire estate. Years later, Morris returns. He went to California intent on making his fortune but comes back to New York making nothing of his life. Still, he professes his love for Catherine. He tells her he only left because he knew losing her inheritance would leave her destitute. Catherine says she forgives him. She also claims she wants to marry him. But is she telling the truth?

Morris comes back that night and that’s when Catherine gets her revenge. She was not sincere in her forgiveness. Coldly, she tells her maid to bolt the door as Morris knocks and knocks, shouting her name. Catherine’s aunt is appalled by Catherine’s behavior, bemoaning her cruelty towards Morris. Catherine turns to her and says, “I have been taught by masters.” Is she wiser or is she bitter? Perhaps she is both. The film fades with Morris still shouting Catherine’s name as she walks up a staircase.

Olivia de Havilland (who one an Oscar for this role) is brilliant as Catherine naturally conveying Catherine’s transformation from victim to victimizer. Montgomery Clift is so beautiful he takes your breath away. He’s also very adept at being a charming manipulator. You’re not surprised Catherine is drawn to him even though you want her to keep him at arm’s length. Sir Ralph Richardson is chilling as Dr. Sloper, yet you also understand he wants to protect his daughter of Morris’ less than sincere intentions.

While watching The Heiress I kept wondering how Catherine’s life could have been different if she had been born in another time. She could have gotten a college education, struck out on her own and had some semblance of independence. She could gain confidence and learn to love herself, and maybe, just maybe, attract the right kind of man. Money is wonderful, but it’s not everything, and Catherine proves one can be surrounded by luxury yet be emotionally and mentally impoverished.

Music Review: Glee-The Christmas Album

2010-11-26T07:33:00.004-06:00

With several best-selling CDs and downloaded singles that have reached into the millions it’s only fitting the cast of Glee would put out a Christmas CD. And they have with the obviously titled Glee-the Christmas Album. From what I’ve heard, the songs will be featured in the December 7th episode “Sue the Grinch.” But I wanted to listen to them music on their own without watching the show first.

Glee-the Christmas Album starts with a rousing “We Need a Little Christmas” sung by Tina Ushkowitz (Tina), Amber Riley (Mercedes) and Chris Colfer (Kurt). This song is upbeat and full of energy, and Tina, Mercedes and Chris sound amazing.

Mash-ups are huge in the Glee universe. Some of you might be asking, “What’s a mash-up?” Well, according to Mr. Schu, “A mash-up is when you tatke two songs and mash’em together to make an even richer explosion of musical expression.” I’m really enjoying “Deck the Rooftop,” a mash-up of “Deck the Halls” and “Up on the Rooftop” and sung by Lea Michele (Rachel), Cory Monteith (Finn), Naya Rivera (Santana), Kevin McHale (Artie) and Heather Morris (Brittany). The vocals are topnotch, and I like the original take on two Christmas classics. I kind of wish the Glee cast would have done mash-ups of other Christmas songs.

I was a little worried about Lea Michele taking on the Carpenter’s “Merry Christmas Darling.” Ms. Michele and her character, Rachel, aren’t always models of restraint. So I was pleasantly surprised on the subtlety Ms. Michele shows on this melancholic tune, though nothing can compare to the original and the late Karen Carpenter’s beautiful voice.

“Baby, It’s Cold Outside” is probably one of my favorite tracks. Usually, sung by a man and a woman, Glee switches up things a bit by having Chris Colfer sing this with Darren Criss. Criss plays Blaine who is acting as Kurt Hummel’s gay Obi Wan Kenobi. Colfer and Criss’ voice perfectly harmonize, and the song is fun and flirty.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who grew up watching Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer as a kid? It’s only fitting that the misfits of McKinley High sing “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” with a tribute to the island of misfit toys from that holiday classic.

There has always been a place in my heart for Wham’s “Last Christmas.” And Lea and Corey maintain the cheesy charm of this 1980s MTV hit. However, are the lyrics a foreshadowing of what is on the horizon for Rachel and Finn? Could Finchel actually be on the outs? Hmmm....

Things get a bit mellow with a respectful rendition of “God Rest Ye Gentleman” featuring Lea, Amber, Tina and Santana. And though I love Matthew Morrison’s voice, I was left rather cold by “Oh Christmas Tree,” but that could be because this song has never been my Yuletide cup of eggnog.

Thankfully, things get jumping with a big band, swinging “Jingle Bells” sung by Mark Salling (Puck), Cory Monteith and Kevin McHale. If you enjoyed Mr. Salling’s high energy “Lady is a Tramp” from last season you’ll definitely enjoy this one.

Another holiday television favorite of mine was Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas (did you know that Dr. Seuss and I share a birthday?). Matthew Morrison narrates this, and though his voice doesn’t have the macabre quality of Boris Karloff’s he sure sounds like he’s having fun. Joining him is the wondrous k.d. lang, and when their voices join in singing it’s quite beautiful. However, I couldn’t help but wonder why Jane Lynch, who plays Sue Sylvester with delicious depravity, didn’t sing on this track. If anyone is a Grinch at McKinley it’s that tracksuit wearing Coach Sylvester.

Sung by Amber Riley, “Angel’s We Have Heard on High” starts out slowly and with a bit of reserve. Then Ms. Riley let’s us have it, and raises the roof with her powerhouse vocals and intensity. Ms. Riley even ad-libs a bit on this song giving it a whole new take.

Not surprisingly, Rachel, er, Lea Michele finishes things off with a powerful “O Holy Night.” It’s an expected and welcome turn from the fabulously talented Ms. Michele, both powerful and heartfelt. And it really finishes off the album with a bang.

I do like most of the songs, and I’m interested in seeing how they play out on December 7th Christmas episode “Sue the Grinch.” I would have liked a bit more variety. I’ve always been a fan of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” and I can only imagine what it would sound like if done by Amber or Lea. What about one of the guys taken on “Merry Christmas, Baby?” Another Christmas gem is “Santa Baby” and I really think Jane Lynch could put quite a twist on it. And with two Jewish characters like Rachel and Puck on Glee, how about some songs pertaining to Hanukkah? Certainly “I Have a Little Dreidel” or the Adam Sandler classic, “The Hanukkah Song” would be welcome even by a shiksa gleek such as me.

Glee-the Christmas Album doesn’t break a whole lot of new ground but it will be a welcome stocking stuffer for most Gleeks this holiday season.

Because Every Other Blogger Does It

2010-11-21T10:56:00.008-06:00

It hardly seems possible, but Thanksgiving is this week. How time flies. I hope you and your families have a great turkey day with lots of blessings.

And with Christmas just around the corner, I'm sure I'm not the only one who is going to be busy for the next few weeks. Once again, I'm making a lot of my gifts this year. Yesterday I got together with my friend Kristine for a crafting day. We watched one of her Felicity DVDs (Ben Covington, swoon), drank some wine and worked on our crafts. Kristine is a knitter and I make beaded jewelry.

Next Saturday, the 27th, is Art vs. Craft. As you all know I'm a huge fan of Art vs. Craft, and I can't wait to check out all of the wares. It's such an inspiration. And my friend Nora might come up for the event, too (she's a knitter).

What else? Well, I'm working on a new book review for Third Coast Digest. I finished up another article for a new publication (I'll tell more as things develop). And I have this humble blog. Upcoming, look for a Retro Reel movie review, a Teen Screening movie review and a Guilty Pleasure movie review. I have a new person to write about for a Gen X Profile, and I'm going to review a recently released CD. And of course, the new year will hold a lot of bloggy goodness.

ETA: As you've probably heard, Oprah had her last "Oprah's Favorite Things" last week. I love this video of her audience losing their collective shit. I think this was my reaction when I found out Glee was being renewed.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights: Yep, I Got Published Again

2010-11-15T18:50:00.003-06:00

Third Coast Digest has published my review of Ariel Gore's brilliant memoir, Atlas of the Human Heart. Enjoy!

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2010-11-13T11:04:00.005-06:00

How do you become a fashion eccentric? According to Barney’s window designer, Simon Doonan, wear eyeglasses and have a pet. Hmm, somehow I don’t think my cheap specs from Stein Optical and a cat I got from the Humane Society really counts.

Are you wondering why the clodhopper Bristol Palin is still on Dancing with the Stars? These people are voting for her.

‘Zine Fest is happening here in Milwaukee.

British chef, Nigella Lawson, spent some time here in Wisconsin promoting her latest book, Nigella Kitchen: Recipes From the Heart of the Home, and my friend, Kristine, got to interview her!

Would you take advice from someone who is dating Jon Gosselin? I didn’t think so.

Which era should you dress like? Jezebel has the answers.

Wendy Molyneux writes why the ladies can’t be funny. We’re too damn busy being stereotypical women! Hmm, now where can I get a “Mrs. John Stamos” t-shirt?

Funny lady, Tina Fey, is given the very much deserved Mark Twain Prize for Humor. As Liz Lemon would say, “I want to go to there.”

Gen X cult movie classic, Office Space, celebrates the release of its Blu-Ray disc with an "Office Space: The Musical." I’d kill for a real "Office Space: The Musical." Avenue Q guys, please get on this stat!

Something to look forward on the next episode of Glee, wee Gleeks!

Songs the Cast of Glee Should Sing if Glee Was on Cable

2010-11-06T12:58:00.008-05:00

Glee often gets accused of being too subversive, racy and not appropriate for children, and I agree. But can you imagine how out there Glee could be if it was on cable and it wasn’t beholden to network television rules? I can only imagine the songs our Gleesters could sing, and here are my picks if Glee was on cable.

As you know, I’m not a fan of Gwyneth Paltrow, and I’m not looking forward to her guest starring on Glee. Apparently she’s going to sing the cleaned-up version of Cee Lo’s “Fuck You” called “Forget You.” I love “Fuck You” and its soulful style. Gwyneth is to soul what Bristol Palin is to dancing. However, I can totally imagine Will singing “Fuck You”, his heart broken over Emma being with Uncle Jesse DDS.

Will and Uncle Jesse DDS would be fabulous singing DJ Kris P. and Mickey Avalon’s face-off “My Dick.” Granted, Will will be rapping again, but seeing the hotness of Matthew Morrison and John Stamos is a palate cleanser.

I adore the Cheerios duo of Brittany and Santana, and I love the musical duo Garfunkel and Oates. Brittany and Santana have just the right bitchiness to sing Garfunkel and Oates’ “This Party Took a Turn for the Douche.”

You can never have too much Garfunkel and Oates, and because Will has become a total douche and a Bitter McBitterson, Emma should dedicate, “I Would Never (Have Sex With You)” to him.

We all know Margaret Cho is mightily funny, but who knew she could sing? Ms. Cho’s “Eat Shit and Die” is perfect for…well, a lot of people on Glee.

Who is more perfect for Plasticine's "Bitch" than Sue Sylvester? No one! And that's how Sue Cs it!

Okay, I’ve come up with a scenario. Rachel sees Finn talking to another girl. Or maybe she finds out Finn’s chemistry lab partner is really hot. Rachel is the drama queen to end all drama queens, and I can totally imagine Rachel singing Scott Vanity’s “Slut.” Okay, it’s kind of hard to imagine Rachel sort-of rapping. But then again, it’s hard to imagine Finn taking chemistry.

Finn is pretty quick on the trigger, so he just has to sing “Jizz in My Pants” made famous by SNL’s Andy Samberg and The Lonely Island.

Puck is a man whore, and we love it. He’s got to sing Midnight Beast’s “Booty Call” whether he’s banging a local MILF or one of the students at McKinley High.

Who knows if Jacob Jewfro can sing, but we do know he likes to get intimate with himself. He could sing “The Internet is for Porn” from Avenue Q. A horrified Rachel could sing the Kate Monster part.

And finally, we all know Kurt Hummel came out last season, and I am just so proud of him. Well, Kurt’s just got to sing Judy Tenuta’s “I Like Boyz.” Who cares what those slushee throwing tools Azimio and Karofsky think? Actually, this might be kind of interesting considering Karofsky kissed Kurt on last night's episode. I guess it's best if Karofsky come out now rather than being inadvertently outed 20 years from now when he's a Republican congressman.

WTF Files: WTF Files: The Cooks Source, the Thief, the Writer She Stole From and the Internet Outrage

2010-11-06T10:47:00.010-05:00

Even if you’re not involved with the media and publishing world, there is a good chance you might be a bit familiar with a situation regarding writer Monica Gaudio, New England-based food magazine Cooks Source and Cooks Source’s editor, Judith Griggs, especially if you spend some time on the Internet. If not, here is a brief run-down. Five years ago, Ms. Gaudio had an article published on a medieval cookery website Gode Cookery. Her article was called “A Tale of Two Tarts.” Recently, a friend of Ms. Gaudio’s let her know that she had read this same article in a magazine called Cooks Source. Gaudio had never heard of this magazine, and she certainly did not give the magazine permission to run her piece nor was she compensated by Cooks Source. Now even if you’ve never worked as a writer or an editor, you probably have a good inkling that a publication should never take a writer’s previously published work without asking for permission and you don’t take it without some type of compensation.

Ms. Gaudio e-mailed the editor of Cooks Source, Judith Griggs. Ms. Gaudio asked Ms. Griggs to please print an apology and in lieu of compensation, to make a donation of $130.00 to the Columbia School of Journalism. Fair enough, right? Now if Ms. Griggs was classy and a professional she would have done this. Instead she sent Ms. Gaudio this e-mail:

"Yes Monica, I have been doing this for 3 decades, having been an editor at The Voice, Housitonic Home and Connecticut Woman Magazine. I do know about copyright laws. It was 'my bad' indeed, and, as the magazine is put together in long sessions, tired eyes and minds somethings forget to do these things. But honestly Monica, the web is considered 'public domain' and you should be happy we just didn't 'lift' your whole article and put someone else's name on it! It happens a lot, clearly more than you are aware of, especially on college campuses, and the workplace. If you took offence and are unhappy, I am sorry, but you as a professional should know that the article we used written by you was in very bad need of editing, and is much better now than was originally. Now it will work well for your portfolio. For that reason, I have a bit of a difficult time with your requests for monetary gain, albeit for such a fine (and very wealthy!) institution. We put some time into rewrites, you should compensate me! I never charge young writers for advice or rewriting poorly written pieces, and have many who write for me... ALWAYS for free!"

Whoa! Where do I start? First, the Internet is not necessarily public domain, and it should be treated as print media when it comes to articles and blog pieces. Get the author’s permission to re-print something and compensate the author properly. Secondly, this woman claims to have 30 years of editorial experience yet has all the word skills of a Sarah Palin Facebook post. I’m surprised she didn’t say she “refudiated” Ms. Gaudio’s claim. And thirdly, the condescension about “improving” Ms. Gaudio’s article and that she should pay Ms. Griggs’ compensation is such a slap on the face, I nearly felt a sting.

Not to be deterred, Ms. Gaudio posted about this incident (including the e-mail) on her Live Journal. And this being the Internet, it went viral. Several websites picked up on the story including Salon, Gawker and Wikipedia. Many media websites have also picked up on this story. And countless people became “fans” on the Cooks Source Facebook page and gave it and Ms. Griggs a cyber smack down. And don’t be surprised if professors everywhere use Cooks Source and Ms. Griggs as an example of what not to do.

This story keeps getting bigger and bigger. Apparently, Cooks Source has not only stolen stories from the little guys like Monica Gaudio; Cooks Source has also stolen from the big guns. People on Facebook did some investigating and it turns out Cooks Source has also lifted on-line articles and pieces from Paula Deen, Weight Watchers, NPR, the Food Network and Martha Stewart. Martha Stewart!?!? She’s been to prison. She will cut you! Ms. Griggs, you are so fucked!

Now, I have heard Ms. Griggs has gotten some death threats. I hope this is not true. However, Ms. Griggs should be punished. She is unprofessional, unethical and has seriously screwed over far too many people and organizations. I don’t care if Cooks Source is a small publication with a small staff. I’ve written for smaller publications both in print and on-line, and they are run by top notch professionals that I hugely respect.

I’m not doing blog post this because I’m a writer and I have friends who are writers. I’m writing about this because in a world where people get away with horribly unethical and unprofessional behavior, and all-around malfeasance, Ms. Griggs is being called out. And I can’t help but feel a bit of schadenfreude. I’ve dealt many Judith Griggs-types in all my years of working, and it’s not picnic. I’m totally on Team Monica Gaudio (and dare I say it, Martha Stewart). Seriously, Judith Griggs and Cooks Source, WTF?

The above image was found at http://zozbot.blogspot.com/2010/01/lol-cats.html

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2010-10-30T11:31:00.004-05:00

The best political ad I have ever seen!

Speaking of Glee, I definitely want to rock around the Christmas tree with this CD.

In honor of Halloween, Salon names the top movies that scare your socks off!

Even more scared than these movies, Charlie Sheen!

Another reason for me to love Betty White, she’s in favor of same sex marriage.

Speaking of love, I heart Anderson Cooper. He totally handed the homophobic anti-gay bigot and Arkansas school board member, Clint McCance, his ass. Not surprisingly, Mr. McCance’s “apology” sucks.

Talk about suffering for your art! The new Superman musical is causing serious injuries to the cast.

The logo Oprah’s upcoming Oprah’s Own Network (I guess World Domination Network wasn't chosen). It reminds me of Lifesavers candy.

Aren’t we still misty-eyed over the 1980s-Rubik’s Cube, fingerless gloves, a time when MTV actually showed videos? Well, forget the 1980s. Rolling Stone wants us to remember the 1990s, the decade of the rise of the Internet, grunge and Clinton getting a BJ.

Do you need some animated GIFs for your Internet communication? Fortunately, Jezebel is here to help.

WTF Files: Dr. Laura-Fashionista

2010-10-23T13:11:00.006-05:00

Dr. Laura-noted racist, nude model, basher of working mothers and her kid’s mom. But what does she do when she’s not dropping the N-bomb, complaining she’s losing her first amendment rights or getting a tattoo (ooh, how edgy-in 1991)? Well, Dr. Laura has created her own line of “fashionable” handbags and jewelry. And because she’s such a charitable person all the proceeds go to Operation Family Fund, an organization that assists injured soldiers and the families of injured or killed soldiers. Now this is great; I’m all about being charitable. And getting some swag out of your donation is pretty cool. But do you want to spend your hard-earned money on Dr. Laura swag? Let’s take a look.

Dr. Laura “designs” handbags and jewelry. For a mere $300.00 you could have bought this charmer. Or for a pittance (180.00) you could get this lovely item. You just know Opal Gardner and Peggy Bundy would be all over that shit.

What about Dr. Laura’s jewelry? I love hand beaded jewelry; I even make some of my own. But is Dr. Laura’s bling worth my cash? Hmm, let me be the judge. Like her handbags, Dr. Laura is not exactly a model of restraint when it comes to her jewelry. It’s busy, fussy and extremely tacky. Some of the earrings are okay. But I LOL’ed over the skull/hanging beaded pendant. It’s like a mash-up of Hot Topic and Coldwater Creek.

Hey, my faithful readers if you’re looking for some fabulous accessories (and aren’t we all?) I suggest you get over to Esty.com. For only $99.00 you can purchase this classic leather handbag. You’ll have something that will get only better with age, and you’ll have money left over to donate to Operation Family Fund or the charity of your choice.

Not in the market for a handbag? How about some jewelry? Is your inner rock star desperate to express itself with something skull-related? How about purchasing this silver skull cuff? You’ll be the envy of everyone in the mosh pit. Not a skull kind of person? How about this hammered gold disk pendant? It’s only $24.90. You’ll have enough money for that abortion you’re dying to get (I kid, I kid).

I’m no fan of Dr. Laura, but I will give her credit for being charitable. However, it would be nice if the charity wasn’t tied up to some ugly shit you could find on Regretsy.com.

Gen X Profiles: Neil Patrick Harris (1973)

2010-10-23T10:09:00.012-05:00

Neil Patrick Harris has defied the problems that have plagued other child stars. Instead of ending up in rehab, in trouble with the law or buried six feet under, he’s maintained his success as an actor on television, in the movies and on stage. And he doesn’t show any sign of stopping.

Harris was born on June 15th, 1973 in New Mexico where he got his start doing school plays and musicals. He was discovered at theater camp by playwright Mark Medoff. Impressed by Harris’ talent, he cast him the 1988 Whoopie Goldberg film, Clara’s Heart. Though the film wasn’t a huge hit, it did get Harris noticed and he was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance.

Before long, Harris was cast as the title character of the television show Doogie Howser, MD where he played a teenage doctor and earned yet another Golden Globe nomination. In Doogie Howser, MD, Harris conveyed his character’s challenges as both a doctor and a teenager, and the show had a successful run until 1993.

After the Doogie Howser, MD, Harris continued to work steadily on television in both movies and TV series. For a brief time, he starred with Tony Shalhoub in the sitcom Stark Raving Mad. The show only lasted a season, but showed off Harris’ fine comedic chops.

Those comedic chops came in handy when Harris was cast as the womanizing Barney Stinson on the highly successful CBS sitcom How I Met Your Mother. Both slimy and endearing, the scene-stealing character of Barney has won Harris many accolades, including several best supporting actor in a comedy Emmy’s. Barney even spawned a book The Bro Code.

The stage has also beckoned Harris, and he has performed in such productions as Proof, Sweeney Todd and Cabaret. One of the first characters he played was Mark Cohen in the iconic rock musical Rent. Harris later directed a production of Rent, which played this past August at the Hollywood Bowl.

Harris can also be seen on the silver screen. Besides doing Clara’s Heart as a child, Harris has also had roles in The Next Best Thing and Starship Troopers. His upcoming films include Beastly with High School Musical’s Vanessa Hudgens, The Best and the Brightest, and the Smurfs’ movie with Glee’s Jayma Mays.

But it is his role as himself in the wildly popular Harold and Kumar comedies that might be his most popular movie role. In the Harold and Kumar movies, Harris plays himself but in an alternative universe. This Neil Patrick Harris is a drug-crazed lech with a love for strippers and hookers, and Harris looks like he’s having a ball. He even got to ride a unicorn! Fans of both Harris and the movies will be happy to know that Harris will appear in the third Harold and Kumar movie.

Harris seems to be all over the place. He starred in Joss Whedon’s musical web series Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog. Harris has guested on the classic children’s television show Sesame Street. In January 2009, Harris was the guest host on Saturday Night Love, and later that year he was a guest judge during the 9th season of American Idol. Harris has been the host of several award shows including the TV Land Awards, the Tony’s and the Emmy awards.

Speaking of the Emmy’s, Harris won a much deserved Emmy for his guest turn as Brian Ryan on the hit show Glee. In the episode “Dream On,” Harris played a high school nemesis of glee club director Will Schuester (Matthew Morrison). “Dream On” was very notable for not only Harris and Morrison’s smoking hot duet of Aerosmith’s “Dream On,” but for also the mullet wig Harris wore in a flashback scene. Hey, I think he deserved that Emmy for the mullet wig alone.

Harris is openly gay and was named by the Jezebel website as one of the gay men the straight ladies would like to get it on with. In reality, Harris is happily involved with actor and chef David Burtka. Recently, Harris and Burtka welcomed twins via a surrogate, a boy, Gideon Scott, and a girl, Harper Grace.

The road of child stardom is littered with casualties; River Phoenix, Gary Coleman and Lindsay Lohan are just a few names of a very sad club. Yet plenty of child stars thrive in adulthood; Ron Howard, Jodie Foster and Brooke Shields are just a few names. You can add Neil Patrick Harris to that list. Of his successful career Harris has claimed, "I'm restless. Luckily I have the kind of job where if I get bored with something I can move on, take up another role and re-invent myself."

Neil Patrick Harris Links
Twitter Page
IMDB Page
Neil Patrick Harris Fan
Fuck Yeah, Neil Patrick Harris
Neil Patrick Harris Youtube Page
Neil Patrick Harris' Message to Gay Youth

Book Review: Girls to the Front-The True Story of the Riot Grrrl Revolution by Sara Marcus

2010-10-16T09:18:00.003-05:00

Mention the term “riot grrrl” and you’ll probably get a lot of different responses. ‘Zines, Doc Martens, punk bands, feminism, baby barrettes, Kathleen Hanna, and writing “slut” on one’s stomach are just a few words that may come to mind. But to write a history of the riot grrrl movement and how it shaped a generation is one hell of an intimidating task. Thankfully, writer Sara Marcus has the ovaries to do just that in her book Girls to the Front: The True Story of the Riot Grrrl Revolution.

Back in the late 1980s and early 1990s young women and girls were sick and tired of the sexism they found in their beloved punk music scene. Girls were to be seen, not heard. They were also furious about a country that seemed to be eroding the rights their feminist foremothers fought for. But instead of withdrawing, these brave women and girls decided to fight back through music, activism, ‘zines and support groups. And they called themselves riot grrrls.

In Girls to the Front, Marcus writes how the riot grrrl movement got its start in the Pacific Northwest and the Washington, DC area and soon grew throughout the country uniting like-minded girls (and some guys, too). Some of them of these riot grrrls became well-known names and were considered the leaders of the riot grrrl movement. But many were just young girls who finally found something they could believe in, themselves.

Marcus doesn’t solely focus on riot grrls as a whole movement; she focuses mostly on the grrrls themselves the most famous probably being Kathleen Hanna, Tobi Vail and Erin Smith. She describes in vivid detail how a lot of young women formed their own bands and many produced their own zines. And there were riot grrrl meetings where budding young feminists discussed abusive families, rape and the sexism they dealt with on a daily basis, often for the very first time.

Though the riot grrrl movement turned out to be a positive thing for most involved, it did have its share of problems, and Marcus isn’t afraid to discuss them. The riot grrrl movement was often looked upon as too white and middle-class. The sexism the bands had to deal with at shows was beyond appalling. When the mainstream press finally decided to examine the riot grrrl movement, it simplified it to a bunch of silly girls in vintage frocks and Doc Martens, writing slogans on their bellies and boobs.

But most disheartening was the infighting among the women in the riot grrrl movement. I must admit I cringed when Marcus described how Bratmobile broke up at a gig while playing on stage. And sadly, by the mid 1990s the riot grrrl movement as it was known splintered and imploded.

However, in a follow-up, Marcus tells us what the women profiled in the book are doing with their lives. Some continue to play music. Some are professors, writers and artists. Many are activists. As short-lived as the riot grrrl movement may have been, it turned out to have a long lasting effect on countless women.

Girls to the Front is tirelessly researched, empathetic to its core and brutally honest. At times it can be a daunting read, but it’s also empowering and enlightening whether you were a riot grrrl or not.

Sarah Marcus will be in Milwaukee on October 22nd at the ”Girls to the Front Fest.” Please visit its Facebook page or at its blog.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2010-10-13T19:01:00.002-05:00

Pandagon has a great analysis why The Office now sucks donkey balls. And yes, Pam and Jim are assholes.

How does beef jerky get pregnant? Apparently super-skinny stylist Rachel Zoe is knocked up.

Food for thought: The female character flowchart.

Fashionista feminist, Tavi Gevinson, is a million times cooler at 14 than I was at her age. Hell, she’s cooler than me now.

Jezebel covers Girls to the Front.

Great Moments in Gen X History: Riot Grrrls

2010-10-12T18:27:00.004-05:00

“Revolution Girl Style Now!”-The Riot Grrrl battle cry

Around twenty years ago, a revolution of punk and feminist minded girls rose up and made their voices heard. Often feeling liking outsiders in their local punk music scenes, and wanting to put a Gen X stamp on feminism, teen and twenty-something women started to do things their own way. These things included forming bands, making homemade ‘zines and getting involved in activism. This revolution was called Riot Grrrl.

The Riot Grrrl movement could be found all over the United States, but its genesis was found mainly in the Pacific Northwest and Washington DC. A lot of young women had come of age to both punk music and second wave feminism. Though they loved both of these things, they often felt disrespected. The punk scene often viewed women as slutty groupies. And many older feminists had written Gen X-ers as apathetic slackers. Young women knew this had to change.

Like the conscience raising of the 1970s, a lot of Riot Grrrls got together just talk about some of the things they had gone through. Some young women had been through the trauma of sexual assault, child abuse and domestic violence and felt safe discussing these things among their peers. Riot Grrls also discussed homosexuality, feminism, body image, music, pop culture and other assorted issues.

But Riot Grrrls wanted to more than talk; they wanted to take action. Some created homemade ‘zines, simple cut and paste DIY magazines that discussed Riot Grrrl issues. Some of these ‘zines included Riot Grrrl, Girl Germs, Teenage Gang Debs, Jigsaw and Hit It or Quit It. These typed-up manifestos, with their cut and paste collages, were vastly different than your typical women’s glossy magazine. These ‘zines discussed music, feminism, politics, body issues and activism in ways that were enraging and entertaining, and allowed young women to express themselves the way the mainstream media never did.

Music was another way Riot Grrrls expressed themselves. Influenced by punk, young women everywhere decided they, too, could rock. They picked up instruments and began to write songs, and played clubs and bars. Most of them weren’t virtuosos or interested in top 40 hits. Their music was the sound of fury, a way for women to get out the anger inside of them. Sometimes their music was very well-received, but often it met with hostility, especially by some guys in the punk scene who didn’t like girls invading their turf. Some of the most popular Riot Grrrl bands included Bikini Kill, Bratmobile, Huggy Bear and Heavens to Betsy.

If there was any de facto leader of the Riot Grrrl movement it would Kathleen Hanna, the lead singer of Bikini Kill. Other notable women in the Riot Grrrl movement included Tobi Vail, Erin Smith, Jessica Hopper, Corin Tucker, Nomy Lamm, Molly Neumann and Jen Smith. In fact, it is Jen Smith in which the term Riot Grrrl was coined. Apparently, she had reacted to some race riots in the summer of 1991 by stating there was going to be a “girl riot.” This somehow turned into the term riot grrrl, with grrrl being a riff on some feminists calling women, womyn.

As the Riot Grrrl movement grew, it garnered a lot of attention from the press, and not just the alternative press. Publications like Sassy, USA Today, Newsweek, the Washington Post, Spin and Seventeen wrote about Riot Grrrls. Not all media portrayals of Riot Grrrls, and what they were about, were fair and positive. Some articles watered down Riot Grrrls to just cutesy bimbos with baby barettes in their hair. Not surprisingly, Riot Grrrls were not happy with these articles, and many of them eschewed the mainstream press soon after.

Despite negative press, the Riot Grrrl movement grew, not only in the United States but in other countries, especially the UK. Young women everywhere formed their own Riot Grrrl support groups and held meetings. They formed bands and made their own ‘zines. But the Riot Grrrl movement did have its dissenters. Some thought the movement was too white and middle class. Some thought it was to hetero, and others complained that it male-bashed too much. And like with any other movement, there was discourse and in-fighting among its ranks.

The Riot Grrrl movement began to dissipate sometime in the mid-90s. “Revolution Girl Style Now” became the Spice Girls cry of “Girl Power.” And by the late 1990s, young girls began to look up to manufactured Disney-stars like Britney Spears, not DIY rockers like Kathleen Hanna.

Yet, the Riot Grrrl affected so many young women and remained a part of them as they grew up and embraced adulthood. Former Riot Grrrls may have put away the Doc Martens and stopped writing “Slut” on their stomachs with a Sharpie, but the movement had given them a voice; and no way were they going to shut up.

Riot Grrrl’s influence can be found today. You find it in magazines like Bust and Bitch: A Feminist Response to Pop Culture. You find it in the DIY craft scene of Etsy and Buy Olympia as well as craft fairs like Art vs. Craft in Milwaukee and the Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago. Many musicians and singers are not afraid to say Riot Grrrls inspired them to pick up a guitar or start writing songs. Beth Ditto, the wondrous lead singer of the pop-punk band Gossip, has spoken very highly of the Riot Grrrl movement, saying, “Riot Grrrl made it possible for me to get up in the morning and say, ‘I can do any fucking thing I want!’”

Riot grrl culture is still a force to be reckoned with. Kathleen Hanna donated her extensive collection of Riot Grrrl ‘zines, correspondence and other paraphernalia to New York University’s Fales Library. And recently, Sara Marcus published Girls to the Front: The True Story of the Riot Grrrl Revolution a tirelessly researched and honest account of the Riot Grrrl movement. Today, former Riot Grrrls mentioned in this post can be found in music, business, education, politics, media and activism.

Riot Grrrls have become older and wiser, but those Riot Grrrl years are still close to their hearts. From October 22-23, Riot Grrrls will be celebrated here in Milwaukee with a "Girls to the Front Fest." The fest will celebrate the Riot Grrrl movement with Ms. Marcus doing a book signing, workshops, a potluck and music gigs. It promises to be a week-end of nostalgia and making really kick ass new memories.

Because Every Other Blogger Does It

2010-10-06T19:50:00.001-05:00

September was a pretty busy month for me-I volunteered for both Third Coast Digest and A Broader Vocabulary. I enjoyed the music of Global Union and the movies of the Milwaukee Film Fest. And of course, I wrote for this blog.

Now October is turning out to be just as busy. I have the birthdays of two close friends coming up, and one of them will be visiting me from Chicago. I’m working on a book for yet another book review for Third Coast Digest. And towards the end of the month I hope to attend the “Girls to the Front Fest” celebrating the riot grrrl movement of the early 1990s and Sara Marcus’ new book Girls to the Front: The True Story of the Riot Grrrl Revolution.

But despite my busyness I won’t totally neglect this blog. I should have a Gen X History post up sometime next week. I also have a Gen X profile in mind that should be up by the end of the month. I have a few DVD Watches in mind. And I’m also working on a music related post regarding Glee. I also just might have a WTF File up soon.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2010-10-03T13:33:00.004-05:00

On the Issues examines the dearth of women music critics and why that may be.

My fellow Gleeks know that my beloved Emma Pillsbury is now romantically involved with Uncle Jesse DDS (aka Carl Howell). Needless to say, this isn’t sitting well with Will and he wants Emma back. But unfortunately he’s pursuing Emma in a totally douchetastic way. I think Emma needs to sing this song to Will, and set him straight.

Neil Patrick Harris and Lance Bass tell gays kids to stay strong.

The delightful Judy Greer talks shop about making movies. Damn, I wish Miss Guided wasn’t canceled. Can we get Ms. Greer a new TV show, one that actually succeeds?

Axe Body Spray keeps it classy with its “wash away the skank” advertising campaign. Yes, some copywriters actually got paid to write this. As a former copywriter, I hang my head is shame.

Last Monday I saw a really great movie sponsored by the Milwaukee Film Fest, No One Knows About Persian Cats, an Iranian film that examines the underground music scene in Tehran. One of my colleagues at Third Coast Digest wrote a really great review.

Think the Harry Potter series is over? JK Rowling just might have another Harry Potter book in her…might.

A collection of Liz Lemon’s 30 Rock flashbacks.

Jon Stewart responds the firing of Rick Sanchez over his anti-Semitic remarks.

Brittany + Santana 4-evah!

DVD Watch: No Impact Man (2009)

2010-10-02T09:30:00.003-05:00

We recycle. We carry our groceries in cloth bags. We shop local farmers’ markets. And we’ve even traded our traditional light bulbs for long-lasting, energy efficient spiral fluorescent bulbs. We do the best to reduce our carbon footprint and be more ecologically-sound. Still, we know we’re making an impact on our planet. Could we possibly make no impact?

Colin Beavan, a Manhattan-based writer, decided to become more “green” and lessen his family’s impact on the planet. In fact, he wanted to make no impact at all, thus becoming “No Impact Man.” Beavan began his experiment in 2006 and blogged about it soon gaining media attention from both the New York Times and Good Morning America. And his (and his very patient family) journey is captured in the Justin Schein and Laura Gabbert documentary No Impact Man.

Beavan’s experiment went a bit further than most of us would be willing in the pursuit of making no impact. He and his family lived without electricity, public transportation, driving, television, toilet paper (yes, toilet paper) and new clothing other than the bare necessities. Beavan rode his bike everywhere, bought local produce at the farmers’ market, walked up countless stairs instead of taking the elevator and composted food scraps.

Along for the ride is Beavan’s wife, Michelle Conlin, and their adorable toddler, Isabella. Not surprisingly, Michelle is less than thrilled with her husband’s grand scheme. She’s a writer for Business Week, and is a girl with a yen for Starbucks and retail therapy. But she loves her husband, and figures she can do this experiment for a year even as she goes through serious caffeine withdrawal, and expresses her desire for another child.

Not quite sure what he’s getting into, Beavan embraces his experiment with giddy zeal. Using no toilet paper? How exciting! And it’s not long before his blog gets media attention. Though some people find his experiment intriguing and inspiring, many write him off as an affront to capitalism, abusive towards his family and a smug, humorless yuppie. Or as Michelle plainly puts it, “They’re calling us bourgeois fucks.”

Beyond the media attention, things don’t always run smoothly. Beavan and his wife bicker about having another child. Milk gets spoiled when the family relies on using two clay pots for refrigeration. And remember, no toilet paper, which makes them subjects for ridicule.

But still, the family soldiers on in their quest to lessen their impact on the environment. It’s not long before they find out that some things about their experiment are pretty cool. They enjoy spending time at the park and riding their bikes together. Even an old-school games of charades turns out to be more fun than a night in front of the boob tube watching reality TV.

No Impact Man can at times be exasperating (no toilet paper), but you can’t help but come away with some more awareness. It helps that Beavan, and his family, is rather likable, frustrating, yet likable. Sure, Beavan can be a bit rigid, yet he’s no finger-wagging scold. He knows what he’s doing is experimental. Sure, Michelle whines at times (that must be the caffeine withdrawal), but she’s no bitchy shrew. In the end, you see a family that truly loves and appreciates each other, and you also learn a few things. Shop at local farmers’ markets? Why yes. Stop using toilet paper? You’ll get my Charmin Double-Ply when you take it from my cold, dead hands.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights

2010-09-29T19:28:00.004-05:00

My review of the documentary (and Milwaukee Film Fest selection) Kings of Pastry has been published at Third Coast Digest.

DVD Watch: Caterina in the Big City (2005)

2010-09-23T18:58:00.004-05:00

Mix Mean Girls with a political satire that skewers both the left and the right, and what do you get? You get Caterina in the Big City, an Italian movie that is both whip-smart comedy and poignant drama.

Caterina’s (winningly played by Alice Teghil) idyllic life is uprooted when her father gets a transfer from a small seaside town where he’s a teacher to a bigger assignment in the capitol of Rome. Caterina’s father Giancarlo (Sergio Catellitto) has more on his mind than grading papers and passing out homework. Giancarlo sees himself as an intellectual and novelist, and believes being among the sophisticates of Rome will garner him the success he has always felt he’s deserved.

Caterina’s family settles in a Rome apartment where her meek and under-appreciated mother (Margherita Buy) takes care of Giancarlo’s ailing aunt. As Giancarlo prepares for his ascent into the literary and intellectual world, Caterina tries to gain her footing at her new school and its confusing social mores. On the left are the alterna-chicks, the offspring of leftist radicals. On the right are the popular girls, the daughters of right wing movers and shakers. Both parties throw bitchy barbs at each other as Caterina sits at her desk wondering if she’ll ever make friends.

At first, Caterina befriends Margherita (Carolina Iaqueniello) whose parents are liberal activists. Before long Caterina is experimenting with drinking, smoking and attending street protests. Giancarlo hopes his daughter’s new friendship will help elevate his career. But Margherita’s parents reject him as a lightweight, and Giancarlo forbids Caterina from seeing Margherita and her other grungy pals. It’s just as well as these girls got Caterina drunk on cheap vodka and tried to give her a tattoo.

The class queen bees, helmed by Daniela (Federica Sbrenna), soon take Caterina under their fashion plate wings. Daniela is the daughter of an extreme right wing politician and a mother who is usually nursing a hangover. Hanging out with Daniela, Caterina is transformed from a wholesome girl to a sex pot, and is also introduced to shoplifting, night clubs, and flirting with men nearly twice her age. Initially, Caterina is enthralled with this glamorous life, but soon grows despondent, especially after one of Daniela’s cousins rejects her for being low class And when she sees Daniela’s family sing fascist songs at a wedding reception, Caterina realizes with friends like these who needs enemies?

By the end, Caterina gains some much earned wisdom and maturity. The best person to be is oneself, and the real Caterina is a pretty awesome individual. Sadly, for her father, this lesson comes a little too late, and he deals with yet another rejection.
Directed by Paolo Virzi, Caterina in the Big City is brutal in its skewering of the excesses of both the left and right, but it’s also an affective coming of age story that truthfully conveys wanting to belong is something we never quite grow out of.

Caterina in the Big City is unrated and is in Italian with English subtitles.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2010-09-22T19:58:00.003-05:00

Ryan Murphy, are trying to make me stop watching Glee? Gwyneth Paltrow is slated to make a guest appearance on a future episode of Glee.

I know you’ve been waiting with bated breath. Yes, it’s official: Steven Tyler and J Lo are American Idol’s new judges. Steven Tyler’s face is going to be terrifying in HD.

Tina Fey explains “The Night of Drunk Moms.”

The top 12 magazine covers of 2010. Hey, we still have a couple of months to go.

Will these 21 new TV shows be worth turning in? Entertainment Weekly thinks so.

Record stores aren’t exactly a thing of the past. Rolling Stone names the top 25 in the US.

And last but not least, you all know how much I love the Milwaukee’s film fest. The fest starts tomorrow, and Third Coast Digest was fortunate enough to get advance screenings of ten featured films. You’ll be happy to know I got to watch and review one of the films, and my review will be up Monday, the 27th.

Blatant Self-Promotion and Bragging Rights

2010-09-19T13:26:00.002-05:00

The lovely folks at Third Coast Digest just published my review for Cathy Erway's foodie memoir The Art of Eating In.

Enjoy!

Gen X Profiles: Stella McCartney (1971)

2010-09-18T09:23:00.005-05:00

Born in London to Sir Paul McCartney and the late photographer and animal rights activist, Linda Eastman McCartney, Stella McCartney initially got interested in fashion when she discovered her parents’ rock and roll outfits. She designed her first piece of clothing, a jacket, at 13. A few years later McCartney interned with the renowned French couturier Christian Lacroix. Since then McCartney has become a hot fashion commodity, designing for labels like Chloe, creating her own line and using her talents to design stage costumes for Madonna and Annie Lennox.

McCartney studied fashion first at Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication and later at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. She honed her sewing skills on Savile Row as an apprentice tailor for Edward Sexton. This apprenticeship was so intense and thorough that it was three years before McCartney was allowed to attach a sleeve to a jacket. In 1995, she showed her first fashion line in her graduation collection. This collection was modeled by super models like Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell. It also made headlines. Impressed by her talent, the London boutique, Tokio, bought the entire collection.

Two years later, McCartney was named creative director for Chloe, the Parisian fashion house. When she resigned from Chloe in 2001, she joined the Gucci Group, to design her own line under her own name. Her own line is hugely successful, known for its expert tailoring and cool girl style. The clothing convey both the feminine and the edgy. Stella McCartney can be found on the backs of such celebs as Gwyneth Paltrow, Cameron Diaz, Liv Tyler, Natalie Portman, Scarlett Johannson and Kate Hudson.

Like a lot of designers, McCartney realizes many people love her clothing but don’t have the massive wallet to afford designer lines. In the past several years she has launched lower-priced lines for both H & M and Target (in Australia only). Other companies she has partnered with include LeSportsac for which she designed a line of handbags, and Adidas, for which she designed women’s active wear. Not wanting to forget the children, McCartney also designed a children’s line for GapKids and babyGap.

Hugely devoted to animal rights and a long-time vegetarian, McCartney has been lauded for refraining from using fur and leather in her collections. In 2007, McCartney launched a skincare line called CARE. CARE is 100% organic and made with ingredients like green tea, lemon balm and other assorted natural ingredients.

McCartney’s other creative pursuits have included designing costumes for the film Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow, Madonna’s Re-Invention Tour and projects with such diverse artists as R. Crumb, Jeff Koons and Reem Alasadi.

On the personal front, McCartney married British publisher Alasdhair Willis in 2003. They have three children, Miller Alasdhair Willis, Bailey Linda Olwyn Willis and Beckett Robert Lee Willis. McCartney is expecting her fourth child any day now.

Insanely prolific, it’s not surprising the award-winning McCartney has been called “Unstoppable Stella” by the fashion press. Some fashion insiders initially claimed McCartney only got her start because of her famous lineage, but in over a decade McCartney has proven she has the talent, creativity, drive and immense work ethic to be a top fashion designer. Yet, McCartney is does not shy away from giving her parents much deserved credit, or as she put it in an article in Time magazine, “I’m obviously hugely inspired by how my mum wore clothes, and my dad...but for me, it was more their attitudes. The way he would wear a bespoke suit and beard. The way she would wear a little YSL jacket with a straw vintage dress underneath. It was the attitude behind it; that ‘I’m going to do it my way, I’m allowed to do this’ f**k-it mentality.”

Stella McCartney.com

CARE by Stella McCartney
Adidas by Stella McCartney
GapKids by Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney's Twitter Page

WTF Files: Camille Paglia Disses Lady Gaga

2010-09-12T15:35:00.006-05:00

Shorter Camille Paglia, "Hey kids, get off my lawn!"

Hey, Cammie. Imma let you finish, but I bet when you were coming of age sometime in the 1960s the olds ripped apart your beloved Rolling Stones. Now Mick Jagger looks like Don Knotts, and a lot of younger people like Lady Gaga. Every generation embraces its very own pop culture. Cammie, you might consider yourself an edgy and hip provocateur but your just a baby boomer Andy Rooney with tits. And your purple prose is atrocious. Please learn how to edit.

Kisses,
Jennifer K

PS. I'm confused by Justin Bieber's hair. Where's my newspaper column?

Music Review: Tunes I've Been Listening To

2010-09-11T10:05:00.009-05:00

So little time, so much great music. Fortunately, there are some tunes I that I’ve fallen in love with and can’t stop listening to.

You probably heard Christina Perri’s haunting song, “Jar of Hearts” on So You Think You Can Dance. I love this song. The lyrics are so heartfelt and honest, and nearly make me cry.

Okay, time to dry the tears and lighten things up a bit. “Animal” by Neon Trees has me bopping in my seat. And I think it’s so cool they have a girl drummer.

I’m sure you’re well aware of Jenny Lewis from her band Rilo Kiley. Now she’s teamed up with her honey, Jonathon Rice for the musical duo Johnny and Jenny. I can’t stop listening to “Big Wave.”

I recently discovered The School, a pop band out of Wales. I’ve been playing the effortlessly catchy “Is He Really Coming Home?” like my life depends on it. This song makes me want to put on some false eyelashes and go-go boots, and dance on a pillar.

I’m always up for some garage pop rock, and I’m loving The Postelles’ “White Knight.” And because I’m kind of shallow I think these guys are kind of cute.

And now that September is here, and the kids are back in school I want to dedicate the Ramones’ “Rock and Roll High School” to all the students.

Just a Quickie: A Little Bit of This and a Little Bit of That

2010-09-07T18:15:00.002-05:00

Hmm, I don’t think Bono and the Edge have had enough to drink.

In other U2 news, “It Might Get Loud.” U2 are fined in Spain for rehearsing too loudly and for too long. Hmm, usually U2 get fined for Bono dropping the F-bomb. This is certainly a switch.

Mike and Molly, a sitcom about people who are fat. How will this go over? Will people think it reflects real people in America , or will people think it glorifies obesity?

Paste magazine is suspending print publication. Friends, this is why most of my writing is on-line.

Summer movies of 2010, one of the worst at the box office ever.

Teen Screening: River's Edge (1986)

2010-09-06T12:24:00.003-05:00

River’s Edge begins with Samson (Daniel Roebuck) sitting next to the lifeless body of his girlfriend, Jamie (Danyi Deats). He strangled her. Betraying no emotion, Samson later tells his friends, and brings them out to the edge of the river to show her corpse. Most of them are not moved. Hey, shit happens. But some of them, Matt (Keanu Reeves), Maggie (Roxana Zal) and Clarissa (Ione Skye) are hugely bothered by seeing their dead friend. They think the police should be notified.

But others want to cover it up. Yea, it sucks that Jamie is dead, but John is their buddy, and they should protect him. This definitely comes into play when the group’s de facto leader, wild-eyed speed freak Layne (Crispin Glover) compels the group to keep the murder a secret, and thinks they should smuggle Samson out of the state before the cops figure out who did the horrible crime.

Matt, Maggie and Clarissa go along for a while. But tensions begin to escalate, and these three are confused on what they should do. Should they go along with Layne and the gang? Or should they tell the police what Samson did? And if they do, what will be the repercussions? Soon they find out that Matt’s younger brother Tim (Joshua John Miller) not only knows about the crime, but also knows one of the friends has gone behind everyone’s backs to report Samson to the police.

Meanwhile, Layne and Samson become more and more at loose ends, and they take refuge at the home of Feck (the late Dennis Hopper), a one-legged, dope dealing biker. Incidentally, Feck killed his own girlfriend years ago. Now he lives with an inflatable sex doll (in other words, a typical Dennis Hopper character). Oddly enough, Feck acts as a mentor and counsel to Layne and Samson.

River’s Edge does not end things tidily with a neat and tidy bow. Black and white morals have become hazy grays of ambivalence, nihilism and detachment. One teacher admonishes a student on how the values of his youth have been destroyed. Ah, yes. the old boomer telling the X-ers about the good old days. Even Feck thinks killing his girlfriend was okay because, hey, it was the ‘60s maaan.

Most chilling about River’s Edge, is it was based on a true story. Also chilling is how these kids assume they have no future so they numb their feelings with drugs and alcohol. The teens in River’s Edge are 180 degrees away from the lovable, wacky suburban cherubs of John Hughes films. In those films, a kid’s biggest problem is a Saturday detention or having your family forget your 16th birthday. In River’s Edge, life is a detention, and parents pretty much forget they have kids unless it’s to accuse one of them of stealing her marijuana.

Written by Neil Jiminez and directed by Tim Hunter, River’s Edge boasts some incredibly honest and brutal performances. It’s unflinching in its portrayal of a generation that when it wasn’t ignored was maligned. As one character states, “You know it’s gonna be like this all day, man. Teachers lecturing us about what kind of monsters we are.” These kids know they are considered losers, so why not act accordingly? River’s Edge is not a comfortable movie to watch, especially if you’re a Generation X-er. “Hey, I was never like that,” you might want to shout at the screen. Yet, if you’re honest you might think, “But of course, some people were like that.” And that’s what makes River’s Edge so potent of a film.