The Pursuit of Liberty

I just don't know where to begin. So I'll thank Andy Towle for the heads up. It seems a certain county Commissioner Mark C. Scott of reading believes Berks County native Keith Haring's work is obscene and should not be displayed on the side of a public building. The mural, of the Statue of Liberty created by Haring and 900 school children, will not be shown do to the fact that Scott fears that taxpayers should not embrace Haring, do to work he viewed on a web site featuring Haring's work. "I'm surprised that of all the artists that have come out of Berks County, this one would be embraced by the board of the Reading Public Museum." he's quoted as saying. Funny, I thought Haring was one of the most renowned artists of modern times, just a thought.

Scott continues, "Some of this art, even the Statue of Liberty, looks more like bathroom graffiti in a seedy bar than it does artwork." Hmmm, I wonder what kind of bathrooms Scott's been hanging out in? I just hate the fact that some asshole with a bit of power, who knows nothing about art, is able to have so much power over what one can view. Sad day indeed when Haring's cannot get the respect from his hometown he deserves. Good luck to the Reading Public Museum as an exhibition of Haring's work makes it debut on February 18th. Somehow, I doubt Commissioner Scott will be attending.

The Tribe Has Spoken

So it appears that Richard Hatch was unable to out play, outlast, or outwit a jury of his peers when it came to not paying his taxes on his Survivor million or the money he made from his radio show and rental properties. For someone who was so adept at playing the game of Survivor, it would be extremely hard to believe his lawyer's defense that he's the "world's worst book-keeper." I'm sorry, I just don't buy it. Hatch faces 13 years in prison and a fine of $600,000.

What I find most interesting about the whole case was that his lawyer made an argument, which was never heard in court, that Hatch found fellow contestants cheating (friends smuggling food to them) and that producers agreed to pay the taxes if he won. Whether or not this is true, remains a new Survivor mystery, one that is truly interesting to this contest of determination and wits. Either way, this was one jury Hatch was unable to control and manipulate like he so successfully did on the first season. Richard, your tribe has spoken.

All Hail the Queen

There is a reason why Queen Latifah was the first rap artist to receive a star on the walk of fame. My Jersey girl has got so much charisma on screen, it oozes. Last night, James and myself caught the 10:45 showing of Last Holiday, which was very much a throwback to old classic Hollywood comedies. Her chemistry with her co-stars is dazzling to watch, not to mention she's a gifted comedian. I never get bored of seeing her on the big screen. If you're looking for a fun feel good film, I highly recommend you check out Last Holiday, if not for Latifah then for the beauty that is LL Cool J. But that is best discussed in another entry.

Buzz on the Buzz

Heads up for tomorrow evening, if you're free dear readers. Come on down to Siberia (356 West 40 Street) for a hot evening of punk, alternative, ska, skin and oi which is known simply as Buzzcock. One of the hosts, Barber Andy (a friend of mine and soon to be model for me) will be shearing and chopping to some kick ass music and atmosphere. Party starts at 10pm with a cover charge of $5 before midnight, $10 after. Just remember look for the red light on 40th Street, Siberia has no official sign. Come join in the mayhem.

Show Me the Love

So I received my first birthday surprise today, superstar DJ Peter Rauhofer will be spinning at the Roxy on my birthday (January 28th) for a party dubbed "The Love Ball." Just the other day I was saying how much I miss him spinning there and pow bang, I get my wish.

I can't wait to see what surprises Peter and John Blair have in store for the night. And dear readers, if you see me on the dance floor please stop by and wish me a happy b-day.

Happy, Happy Endings

With a cold brewing, I don't really have too much in me, as far as blogging goes. So when all else failed, run a Crush of the Week. This week's winner is David Sutcliffe, the scruffy hairy handsome man of films like Testosterone & the film I watched in bed last night, Happy Endings. I'm just a sucker for a man with a smile, that tends to knock you on your feet and Mr. Sutcliffe has that in spades. Now it's time to find him a movie he can really excel at. Enjoy the beauty that is David Sutcliffe.

Pitter Patter of Tiny Feet

Seems baby fever is on everyone's mind in Hollywood these past few days. From Brad and Angelina's announcement, to Lindsay's mysterious home pregnancy test while checked into the hospital, to Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin who are expecting their second bundle of joy, finally working towards that bushel. I'm delighted to hear that little Apple will have a brother or sister to play with shortly. My recommendations for names are Peaches if it's a girl and Rhubarb if it's a boy.

Congratulations one and all. Hear is praying that the paparazzi aren't too much of a nightmare and you call have normal healthy pregnancies.

A New Year, A New Post

So, I promise by tomorrow I will be back to regular blogging. Between the return from sunny Mexico, lost luggage, my job, unpacking (why, is it so hard to empty a suitcase) and the opening of all the new galleries on 27th Street, its hard to find the time to breath never mind write something hopefully witty and enjoyable. Have no fear dear readers, we will be back to business with some entertaining news and gossip in the next few days. Stay tuned.

Greetings from Mexico

Hola. After over twelve hours of traveling, me and James have landed safe and sound in lovely Valle de Bravo. The weather is delightful and its great seeing James´ parents. Not alot to blog about right now, just wanted to keep you all informed that hopefully I will be giving you updates of my Mexican adventures.

That Time of the Year

So today might be my last entry this year, as I prepare to leave for Mexico for three weeks and not sure if I'll be able to update my site, off-site. I would like to take a moment to wish all of you dear readers a very safe and happy holiday and a rockin' new year.

If I'm able to update while I'm basking in the amazing sunlight of Ville del Bravo, you'll get some news south of the border. Enjoy the rest of 2005.

You're Either In or Out

Just when I thought I would have no good reality television to watch, along comes season two of Project Runway. Heidi Klum and company deliver a fascinating look into the creative process of fashion design with fierce competition, tell it like it is judges, and innovative designers. The best part about the show is that each contestant possesses a high level of talent and depending on how they can handle stress, the other competitors and stay innovative in their dress designs - they will remain on the show.

I'm going to predict that the three designers who will make it to fashion week in New York are: Chloe, Emmett, and Santino.

Supersize Me

One thing you have to love about a superhero film is when the actor selected is too big for the role. If rumors are to be believed, Brandon Routh might just be too big to fill Superman's tights, literally.

It's been overheard that Hollywood executives are worried that Brandon's bulge might be too distracting for viewers and have ordered that he be digitally reduced before the film hits theaters. You have to love when a source is quoted as saying, "It's a major issue for the studio. Brandon is extremely well endowed and they don't want it up on the big screen." The only thing this is really going to do is strum up much needed publicity for the film and start a search for hints of his endowment. You have to love the press for bringing this to our attention. Up, up and away.

Two for Zero

So once again, I'm wrong at picking the winner of my favorite reality shows. First the end of ANTM pulls a fast one and awards the title to Nicole (very beautiful, just doesn't have the presence that Nik was able to captivate in a photograph) and then a surprise victory for Danni on the season's end of Survivor.

I'm still surprised that Rafe and Stephanie were stupid enough to not eliminate a huge threat to their success as Danni. I understand she a very likeable person and easy to be around, but if you're going to bring someone like Lydia to the final four (sorry Lydia) who doesn't pose a possible threat, you could have secured your place in the final two, so why eliminate her fourth. By keep Lydia till third, you would have secured yourself a place in the final two and the jury would have to award a victory to the people who had the most say in why they are on the panel. Not smart game-playing, but until I'm in their shoes (think Survivor 13), I can't say how much personal friendships and loyalties play into the game.

Congratulations to both Nicole and Danni, great game-playing and welcome to reality TV history.

Home on the Range

So Brokeback Mountain opens today in New York (in only 3 friggin' theaters... talk about limited release) and I thought it was only fair to salute the other New York cowboy, the naked one. Although the winter weather does not allow us to bask in the glory of a muscular former model turned cowboy boot wearing, lyric singing tourist attraction. I still salute you.

I thought it was time to give you your props Naked Cowboy for the brave fact, that come hell or high water you are out there daily in your two pairs of underwear (so as not to scare those mid-western housewives, or threaten their husbands masculinity, God forbid we see any outlines or bulges), flexing endlessly for photo after photo, and bringing a little country to our fair city. Time Square just wouldn't be the same without you. See you in the spring, guitar strings blazing. Rock On!

PS- So until your return, I'll have to turn to Jake for warmth (something tells me, you won't mind.)

End of the AM

Seems Nicole Richie and DJ fiance Adam Goldstein, aka DJ AM, have called off her engagement after four years together. Sad, it seems like the end-of-the-year is all about divorce proceedings and the end of a bunch of celebrity romances. First Paris (Richie's ex-best friend forever) & Paris, then Nick & Jessica (which seemed doomed long ago, thanks to her crazy controlling father), and it even appears Ms. Spears is have some domestic problems looming on the horizon.

I blame the media and the stars ever growing need for fame for the demise of most of these relationships. We are so happy to see someone famous fail at the price of our own satisfaction and morbid curiosity. Not to mention the price fame seems to cause on any relationship. I hope ultimately, these stars find peace within themselves this holiday season and find what they are looking for.

May The Fiercest Win

Tonight is the season finale of ANTM, and my prediction is that Nik will win this cycle. However, knowing how this season has progressed so far, I'm most likely completely wrong. But, with consistently good pictures and a good positive energy, I'll go out on the limb and say we will be watching Nik's "Life as a Covergirl" soon enough. Here's to what I hope is an exciting final show and I can't wait to see the final two take the runway. Stomp it out, girl.

Today's Beauty Moment

So with tonight's panel discussion, it doesn't leave me a whole lot of time to blog, however it's always a good excuse to run a photo of Jake. Enjoy the beauty that is Mr. Gyllenhaal, and not that it needs the attention but Brokeback Mountain opens in select theaters on Friday.

More on Moore

Tomorrow night, a panel I had a hand in creating will finally happen. Force of Nature: The Art and Activism of Frank Moore will take place at the SVA Amphitheater starting at 7pm. If you are looking for something good to do tomorrow night, please come by and see what I expect will be a lively and moving panel.

An internationally-recognized artist whose works are found in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, Moore was also a longtime board member of Visual AIDS and a collaborating member of a group of artists who conceived and launched the [Red] Ribbon Project, which in 1991 created one of the most enduring symbols of AIDS awareness. Moore’s paintings – luminous scenes juxtaposing natural and human elements to explore social and environmental concerns – have been the subject of numerous gallery and museum exhibitions throughout the U.S. Born on Long Island, Frank Moore died of AIDS at the age of 48 in 2002.

Force of Nature: The Art and Activism of Frank Moore
School of Visual Arts Amphitheater
209 East 23 Street, 3rd floor
suggested donation of $10, proceeds which will benefit Visual AIDS.

Street Art

Tonight is the opening reception of a new group show in Park Slope of street-scapes including the work of Warren Beishir. Me and Warren go way back to grad school and it's good to reconnect with him. Sentinals: Water Towers of New York, features the work of 13 artists whose work depicts these silent giants that still grace the city's skyline. You can check out the show at the Object Image Gallery on 95 Fifth Avenue in Park Slope. The opening reception is from 6 to 9pm.

It's Not Over

Today is World AIDS Day, so please take a moment and reflect on those we have lost and on how the struggle for a cure is still needed. Bristol-Myers Squibb is donating a dollar for each online candle that is lite, so stop by their web site and help the cause. Thank you.