tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26969388735041117572024-03-19T07:25:43.733-05:00F.A.C.T.SIn a city and world where we are bombarded with social standards and wanting to fit in how do we know the rules. What's hot changes weekly. Publicity churns at a never ending rate with so many releases that you become numb as you try to decide the perfect gift, the newest artist, the trendiest club or the chicest restaurant. F.A.C.T. hopefully will demystify that blur.Thomashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14455691247249092642noreply@blogger.comBlogger771125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-91859285683424742622010-10-26T22:38:00.000-05:002010-10-26T22:39:36.166-05:00Jak Burke: an artist who cares<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSom2SRJYtmYgvJkSQLqMufQwYS8KnVwG2zJyCRVl-_Z3iPKY6wGQkhrtD4opPF5RZZG17YHwSE8C2pYvVgJoa33Q8bmBtN9mKnWP3tVSHqwDkUGzZl_mHRFxVhLuQQ-bmehlJmzcKMEB/s1600/jakprofile.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPSom2SRJYtmYgvJkSQLqMufQwYS8KnVwG2zJyCRVl-_Z3iPKY6wGQkhrtD4opPF5RZZG17YHwSE8C2pYvVgJoa33Q8bmBtN9mKnWP3tVSHqwDkUGzZl_mHRFxVhLuQQ-bmehlJmzcKMEB/s400/jakprofile.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532565395885715634" /></a><br />Hell’s Kitchen/ Clinton, at one time was well known for the bohemian artists that made up the culture and fought for a better way of life. Today there is a scattering of artists mostly because of the high rents and lack of workspaces. The Hell’s Kitchen artist tours, Art for Healing and a splattering of galleries still exist but it is residents like Jak Burke who are the heart and soul of city.<br /><br />Born in London, Jak is a pure New Yorker with a soft spot for Coney Island. Recently, she displayed her work at an anti-violence art show entitled, “Circus of the Soul,” sponsored by the Coney Island Coalition Against Violence and hosted by the New York Aquarium. Her show drew attention to the increasing deadly amount of gang activities in Coney Island. Mathylde Frontus (Founder of Urban Neighborhood Services and Co-chair of Coney Island Coalition Against Violence) recently stated, “As a long-time Coney Island resident who has personally witnessed the damaging effects of violence on the youth and families of our historically significant community, I applaud Circus of the Soul’s attempt to highlight the plight of every day urban youth who struggle to make the right decisions. Since our community coalition meeting on July 30th, a 13- year old boy in a wheelchair was shot. On Saturday July 31st, a 24 year old man was shot point blank at 3:15 in the afternoon, with residents ducking for cover. On the same day as our community peace walk, there was as shooting in front of Urban Neighborhood Services offices at 2am. Coney Island has officially become a war zone.”<br /><br />Circus of the Soul, originally debuted in September at The Soho Gallery of Digital Art, 138 Sullivan Street. JAK commented, “I find my solo show series, Circus of the Soul, speaks not only to the gang crisis in Coney Island but also to the young children in South Los Angeles who have been experiencing greater levels of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder than children living in Baghdad, Iraq. What is happening inside of our country? Urban violence does not go away. Without resolution, gang activities will spread until every NYC neighborhood is affected. Art and awareness can bring about change.”<br /><br />The actual show is about, Buck Wabbit, a gangster who gets seduced into a life of crime. Jak has made it possible to interact with Buck on Twitter, Blogger and Facebook.<br /><br />Jak has always been a community artist. As an activist, Jak is passionate about all forms of public art especially community art work. “I am inspired by everything I see. I have been politically aware since I was a teenager in Thatcher’s 1980’s Britain. I experienced urban decay and social unrest. London suburbs were wastelands during the 80’s.”<br /><br />Jak’s art involves collecting stickers, graffiti, street art, and billboards on cheap digital cameras and then creating collages onto photographic landscapes with an overlay of cartoons. "I use poetry, headlines, menus, sound bites – anything – as my narrative", says Jak. "My protagonists are heroic and often tragic".<br /><br />Jak's work has also been showcased at Headquarters’ Gallery, in Tribeca.<br /><br />Jak is an example of why Hell’s Kitchen/ Clinton is alive and vibrant and why artists have always been the voice in the wilderness. Thankfully our wilderness has Jak.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-14504343272922461542010-03-22T08:39:00.003-05:002010-03-24T10:23:03.654-05:00A Miracle is startingI know I said more tomorrow, but I got the flu, needed to get a paper out and had to work, so tomorrow has turned out to be five days. Life happens and we handle it the best we can. Onto the starting of a miracle.<br /><br />Merrie, runs another publication that is highly successful. After hearing my story she met Jack who just happened to work for All Access Dental. He in turn agreed to meet with me. I met with Jack and David the brains behind All Access Dental and they agreed to help. This company is amazing. They started a dental practice that excepts medicare, medicaid and all forms of insurance. They help those who need care. They care. <br /><br />My journey will be completely documented here. You can see what I go through so that you can see this is possible and in turn if you need help maybe you too can find it. <br /><br />My miracle is starting, I wish the same for all of you.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-89049135976166729322010-03-17T22:40:00.010-05:002010-03-17T23:28:53.297-05:00The beginning of a miracle<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipfFMlRKBvVSTmdBYXr8hX4dZx-1rnnoNgfAm03lJaUyw4lan70UE8is-vafPDvH-7CunBQnWhdKXg5oPxRSa56ekIjGrhwV8BAn8jMqVP-LZnUWhB6e1zXu2x8lOFEXUceoPDwB1tVxoI/s1600-h/16036_1151565474187_1379141672_30455275_6074574_s.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 90px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipfFMlRKBvVSTmdBYXr8hX4dZx-1rnnoNgfAm03lJaUyw4lan70UE8is-vafPDvH-7CunBQnWhdKXg5oPxRSa56ekIjGrhwV8BAn8jMqVP-LZnUWhB6e1zXu2x8lOFEXUceoPDwB1tVxoI/s400/16036_1151565474187_1379141672_30455275_6074574_s.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449822143749850562" /></a><br />It has been awhile since I have posted here. I apologize for that, but with running a newspaper and writing for other venues it has been difficult. <br /><br />I am back to inform and to document a miracle. Years ago, I had a tooth problem. I saw a dentist in NYC. He told me I needed a root canal. At the time, I was on break from one show and about to go into another, so my insurance was not in place. He told me not to worry and put me out. When I woke up, my head was the size of a basketball and I was sick as a dog. My friends came and rescued me. I stayed that way for over a week, until I could no longer take the pain and saw another dentist. It turned out, I had a severe infection most likely from unclean instruments. I lost the show, as it took two months for my face to completely return to normaI. I became like a deer in headlights and was fearful of dentists. I later learned, the dentist who started this mess, David Beldengreen was arrested.<br /><br />As if that was not enough, I was in a car crash. I was coming off the off ramp and another car was coming up the off ramp. It was snowing and my choice was to hit the car head on or go off a cliff. I hit my head on the steering wheel. From the incident before my mouth was weakened. Slowly, I have lost several teeth and others have been wearing away due to my bite being completely off. You see the girl who ht me was illegal, from Columbia and sleeping with the chief of police. My insurance would not cover it because she technically did not exist and my paper work suddenly disappeared from the police station. It wasn't until later that I learned why. <br /><br />To fix my mouth was estimated at over $80,000.00. I was an actress, singer and writer, where was I ever going to get that kind of money? After the 2nd incident, I was told by three separate agents the reason I was not booking the commercials was because of my mouth. You see nobody wants an actress with missing teeth. I stopped singing professionally after I saw a tape of a show I did. I looked homeless. I started smiling less. My face started falling and I see differences every day. For the past two weeks I have started to have intense pain and clicking, which means TMJ is starting. There is not a day that goes by that I am not made aware of what has happened to me, yet most people do not know. I have kept silent. One of the reasons I started the paper was because of all this. <br /><br />I have spent countless hours researching the cheapest place to have dental work. When the lottery is high I play it in hopes of regaining back my smile. In a strange way I had lost hope, but was trying to stay present. Then I attended a luncheon and met Merrie and told her some of my story. We were to get together on another matter, when I called, she surprised me by telling me she had found a dentist that might be able to help. <br /><br />More tomorrow...........but I promise it is worth it! There are miracles waiting to happen.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-22490650240724526722010-02-11T13:00:00.004-05:002010-02-11T13:12:16.116-05:00T: Is for trouble losing power<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5aVdM6zuK8l7eKHfj40j0Yu2C5KlMNoG7KFqhhSL6nZGNyEVsXMuvN1yPALCd2gNkfQLDPZDIeGMPQY9_wemNWLxxLOWH44Cz9Jqfid_4_CIdzogkQwinNMnZZniI4W-KGuyyJNvsIiM/s1600-h/sarah-palin-newsweek-cover.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv5aVdM6zuK8l7eKHfj40j0Yu2C5KlMNoG7KFqhhSL6nZGNyEVsXMuvN1yPALCd2gNkfQLDPZDIeGMPQY9_wemNWLxxLOWH44Cz9Jqfid_4_CIdzogkQwinNMnZZniI4W-KGuyyJNvsIiM/s400/sarah-palin-newsweek-cover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437050329545612578" /></a><br />I am an Aquarian, which is why I think it irks me so much that Sarah Palin is too. This women is a menace to society. Today is her birthday, but finally a new national poll indicates that 7 out of 10 Americans feel that she is not qualified to be president.<br />71 percent of the public say the former Alaska governor is not qualified to serve in the White House, with 26 percent saying she is qualified. The 26 percent is down 12 points from November. The survey also indicates that 37 percent of Americans have a favorable view of her, with 55 percent holding an unfavorable view. Just last month, 43 percent of the public had a favorable opinion and 46 percent had an unfavorable view of Palin. Could it be more American's are waking up to how dangerous this women is? I hope so. Being a women and knowing what women can do, there is no way I want this particular one anywhere near laws, a position of power or making any kind of decision that could effect my life. Maybe within the next couple of months the other 3 out of 10 Americans will open up their eyes and Ms. Palin will no longer be a threat to humanity.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-74101781084082706652010-02-10T22:50:00.003-05:002010-02-11T13:00:25.900-05:00C: Is for Career's on the Rise<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPwWjKMs5DTAhyphenhyphenihz0OcI9p2KsCUlvdlxW_hBM9m7A2BkZjc4itKfKY_LzMaFTUmTt-Bp9EuF0_9zvEIYbrHtSJNGMTy-ToAfrXue3o-xvMpnpzKVHcuDyt6vBIzYLftkFFUmDdO1WCowi/s1600-h/resized_Playwright_Katori_Hall_002.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPwWjKMs5DTAhyphenhyphenihz0OcI9p2KsCUlvdlxW_hBM9m7A2BkZjc4itKfKY_LzMaFTUmTt-Bp9EuF0_9zvEIYbrHtSJNGMTy-ToAfrXue3o-xvMpnpzKVHcuDyt6vBIzYLftkFFUmDdO1WCowi/s400/resized_Playwright_Katori_Hall_002.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5437047277161192594" /></a><br />Careers come out of Juilliard. Katori Hall a recent graduate of the Julliard playwriting program will make her Broadway debut with the play “The Mountaintop,” a two-character play that imagines a surprising turn of events for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on the night before his assassination. Ms. Hall was the 2009-10 recipient of the Playwrights of New York Fellowship, an annual prize administered by the Lark Play Development Center, worth an estimated $80,000. Her 2007 play, "Hoodoo Love," had an Off Broadway run at the Cherry Lane Theater. “The Mountaintop,” received critically praise when it was preformed in London last summer, earning a 2010 Olivier Award nominations for best new play and lead actress Lorraine Burroughs. The production also received Evening Standard Award nomination for most promising playwright and lead actor David Harewood. Producers Jean Doumanian and Sonia Friedman said in a statement they were eager to capitalize on its success by moving ahead on Broadway. They said they were in negotiations with Kenny Leon to direct. He will be represented on Broadway later this year directing the revival of August Wilson’s “Fences.” Ms. Hall states her inspiration for the play came partly from her mother, who grew up near the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, where Dr. King was assassinated, and regretted not going to hear him speak on the day before he was killed. The play’s characters are Dr. King and a woman who at first seems to be a hotel maid. Casting, performance dates and a theater are yet to be announced.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-91669128411404807272010-02-09T23:34:00.001-05:002010-02-09T23:35:52.919-05:00A: Is for Art on a budget<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXiN3gJe6EMUxaW9kGCWUp1Xkfe2tI7FgZOjpFnLM3aYKAAdMozGyikJrRB3i9fywdREZu2RpD1YuVOq3FFMrzjytTVqU1g2WatmCtvyC2LY3uUZSuSCqTrDvmivVFApASBRdI18THvss/s1600-h/event_400_billy-elliot.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 381px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXiN3gJe6EMUxaW9kGCWUp1Xkfe2tI7FgZOjpFnLM3aYKAAdMozGyikJrRB3i9fywdREZu2RpD1YuVOq3FFMrzjytTVqU1g2WatmCtvyC2LY3uUZSuSCqTrDvmivVFApASBRdI18THvss/s400/event_400_billy-elliot.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436468801808603058" /></a><br />On a budget, many Broadway shows have rush, lottery, and standing room. All it takes is patience, a photo ID and time.<br /> <br />Billy Elliot <br />Student Rush: $41.50 (for tickets are normally $80) - available at the box office two hours prior to performance. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thurday performances only. Limit 2 per valid ID. Tickets in Rear Mezzanine rows G-J and side sections rows D-F $41.50 for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday performances. <br /> <br />Bye Bye Birdie <br />General Rush: $26.50 - limited number sold on the day of as soon as the box office opens. Limit 2 per person.<br />Student Rush: Limited half-price tickets are sold a half hour before curtain. 1 per valid ID.<br />Hiptix: $21.50 - Roundabout's Hiptix program allows registered patrons between ages 18 and 35 to purchase 1 pair of tickets per production at this price. Free registration but it is required. Ticket may be purchased in advance. All IDs are checked.<br /> <br />Chicago <br />General Rush: $36.50. Limit 2. Not available Saturday evenings. <br />Standing Room: $26.50 - available when the performance is sold out. <br /> <br />Fela! <br />Student Rush: $27.00, May be partial or obstructed view. Limit 1 ticket per current and valid student ID. <br /> <br />God of Carnage <br />Standing Room: $26.50 around 20 tickets sold at the box office beginning two hours prior to curtain. Only available when sold out. <br /><br />Hair <br />The "Be-In Box" Ticket Lottery: $25 is the best place to be. Entries are done at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre box office beginning two and half hours prior to each performance. Names are drawn at random two hours prior to curtain time. Winners must be present at the time of the drawing and show valid ID to purchase tickets. Limit one entry per person, and two tickets per winner.<br />Standing Room: $25 - available at the box office only on the day of the performance when the performance is sold out. <br /> <br />In the Heights <br />Lottery Rush: $26.50 - a set number of front-row seats for each performance, sold via a lottery system. Each person will print their name and the number of tickets (1 or 2) they wish to purchase on a card that is provided. Only one card per person. Cards are checked for duplication prior to the performance. For Tues 7pm performances, cards are available at 4:30pm for a 5:00pm drawing. For Wed-Sat 8:00pm performances, cards are available at 5:30pm for a 6:00pm drawing. For Wednesday and Saturday matinee performances, cards are available at 11:30am for a 12:00pm drawing. For Sunday matinee performances, cards are available at 12:00pm for a 12:30pm drawing. For Sunday 7:00pm performances, cards are available at 5:00pm for a 5:30pm drawing.<br />Standing Room: $21.50 - available when the performance is sold out.<br />Tickets in the last three rows of the Rear Mezzanine (Rows F-H) are regularly priced at $41.50 for all performances. These tickets may be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the box office. <br /> <br />Jersey Boys <br />Student Rush: $27 - a limited number of student tickets to select Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday performances are available when the box office opens at 10 AM, but there are exceptions. Two kinds of photo ID must be shown: A non-expired full time student ID as well as a government issued photo ID, drivers license or passport. Limit 2 tickets per person per 30 day period. <br />Standing Room: $27 - available at the box office two hours prior to the performance. Limit 1 ticket per person. Only available when the performance is sold out. <br /><br />A Little Night Music <br />Standing Room Student Rush: $27 sold on the day of performance when the box office opens. Subject to availability. Limit 1 ticket per valid ID. <br /><br />Mamma Mia! <br />Student Rush: $31.50 - may be available on day of performance when the box office opens. Subject to availability. Limit 2 tickets per valid ID.<br />Standing Room: $21.25 - available at the box office on the day of the performance if the performance is sold out. Two hours prior to curtain. Limit is 2 per person. <br /><br />Mary Poppins <br />Student Rush: $30 - sold on the day of performance when the box office opens. Only available to college/university students. Limit 1 ticket per valid ID. <br /><br />Memphis <br />Student Rush: $26.50 - limited number of tickets available day of performance when the box office opens. Limit 2 tickets per valid ID. <br /><br />Next to Normal <br />Lottery Rush: Beginning 2 hours before each performance, patrons may enter a lottery drawing to purchase a limited number of $25.00 tickets to that day's performance. Names are drawn at random and 90 minutes prior to the performance. Limit of two tickets per person and winners must be present with valid identification at the time of the drawing. <br />Tickets in the last row of the Mezzanine are regularly priced at $36.50. These tickets may be purchased through Telecharge or at the box office. <br /> <br />The Phantom of the Opera <br />Standing Room: There are $26.25 tickets available at the box office only, only when the performance is sold out. There are only 28 standing room chances. <br />Tickets in the last two rows of the Rear Mezzanine are priced at $26.25 for Monday through Thursday performances. These tickets may be purchased through Telecharge or at the box office. Note: These are the best tickets for this show<br /><br />Present Laughter <br />General Rush: $26.50 - limited number of tickets sold on the day of the performance when the box office opens. Subject to availability. Limit 2 per person.<br />Student Rush: Half-price seats sold at half hour before curtain. Limit 1 per valid ID.<br />Hiptix: $21.50 - Roundabout's Hiptix program allows registered patrons between ages 18 and 35 to purchase 1 pair of tickets per production at this price. Free registration is required. Ticket may be purchased in advance as availability dictates. Info at: http://hiptix.com/<br /><br />Race <br />Student Rush: $26.50 - sold on the day of performance beginning two hours prior to show. Limit 2 tickets per valid ID. <br /><br />Rock of Ages <br />Lottery Rush: $26.50 A limited number of tickets will be available via lottery. For 8 PM shows: signup at 6 PM, lottery held at 6:30, ticket pickup at 6:45. For 7 PM shows: signup at 5 PM, lottery held at 5:30, ticket pickup at 5:45. For 2 PM matinees: signup at 12 noon, lottery held at 12:30, ticket pickup at 12:45.<br />Student Rush: $36.50 - sold on day of performance two hours prior to curtain, immediately after lottery tickets are distributed. Limit 2 per valid student ID. Not available Friday or Saturday evening. <br /> <br />South Pacific <br />Student Rush: $20.00 - available at the box office beginning two hours prior to a performance. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday performances only. Only available to college/university students. Limit 1 per valid ID. Subject to availability. <br /><br />Time Stands Still <br />Student Rush: $26.50 - available on the day of the performance when the box office opens. Must show photo ID verifying current enrollment in a degree or diploma program. Limit 2 per valid ID. <br /><br />A View From the Bridge <br />General Rush: $26.50 - may be available on day of performance when the box office opens. Limit 2 per customer. Subject to availability.<br />Standing Room: $26.50 - available at the box office, day of performance, when the performance is sold out.<br /> <br />West Side Story <br />Lottery Rush: $26.50 - limited number of front-row seats sold via lottery system. Entries accepted at box office beginning two and half hours prior to each performance. Names will be drawn at random two hours prior to curtain time. Winners must be present at the time of the drawing and show valid ID to purchase tickets. Limit one entry per person, and two tickets per winner.<br /><br />Wicked <br />Lottery Rush: Each day, two hours prior to show time (11:30 AM for 2 PM matinees; 12:30 PM for 3 PM matinees; 4:30 PM for 7 PM performances; 5:30 PM for 8 PM performances), people who present themselves at the Gershwin Theatre box office will have their names placed in a hat. Thirty minutes later, names will be drawn for 28 front-row seats at $26.50 each. This lottery is available only in-person at the box office, with a limit of 2 tickets per person, cash only. Photo-ID. <br /><br />Remember everything is subject to availability. Most only except cash with the rare excepted credit card. Just be prepared and these are the F.A.C.T.S<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-14791812593950983162010-02-08T14:41:00.004-05:002010-02-09T23:36:12.041-05:00F: Is for "FEARLESS MORAL INVENTORY”<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizoT4LAHbeaSGsebOUSKyUCSFvXF5UVvAhmMzdV1LRH3ChO-oKd20U7Y24FUz8gJzhroLN1TxXlDW6rxL9d9KjoB5VieTrUYJ0JqLRqVBUbT5MZGBILV4dNwPp_I0wc2gtbfIWOQHj8O10/s1600-h/image.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizoT4LAHbeaSGsebOUSKyUCSFvXF5UVvAhmMzdV1LRH3ChO-oKd20U7Y24FUz8gJzhroLN1TxXlDW6rxL9d9KjoB5VieTrUYJ0JqLRqVBUbT5MZGBILV4dNwPp_I0wc2gtbfIWOQHj8O10/s400/image.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435962629764554322" /></a><br />When we last left Frank Blocker he was at the Stage Left Studio Theatre where he was starring in his sold-out, critically-acclaimed, three-times-extended and award-nominated (Drama Desk & Audience Awards) “Southern Gothic Novel” which has since been published in paperback by CreateSpace and is available on Amazon.com. The spoken word CD will be released by the publisher on February 15th. Thank-Gog! Mr. Blocker is back. Unplugged. And fearless. His new show “FEARLESS MORAL INVENTORY” will open at the Stage Left Studio Theatre (438 West 37th Street – between 9th & 10th Avenues) on Monday, March 8th and play through, May 31st with the option to extend through July 26th. Preview performances begin Monday, February 15th. “FEARLESS MORAL INVENTORY” is 62 characters, challenging to tell the truth come from many and varied walks of life. Marvin, is a blind guy who dates only redheads. The Very Right Reverend Doctor Raymond B. Smythe loathes pervs. Richard, is a serial banker. Anna Mae, a reluctant widow. Jon-Paul R. Georges, an ingrate son. Watch out for the mother on a mission to ruin a honeymoon. Joe Tennent, is a murderous landlord. Sister Aloysius and Sister Theresa, have much to say. Iona Winchester, is mad as a hatter. Franklin Ian Brown, is a performer of sorts. Henrik, Jr., is a clairvoyant cab driver and Sue-Sue Daniels is the addicted everywoman from the deep South. Laughter and revelations are sure to be had as we discover what this genius performer has in store. For $20 this is a bargain. Life is tough but then you change and Frank Blocker's extreme wit is sure to do the trick and that is a F.A.C.T.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-53948447438499064902010-01-08T00:22:00.004-05:002010-01-08T09:49:49.376-05:00S: Is for Stunned.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinh7ihYGJ7Zej8iFu0-dyMOy_ZDWuIZfhURhnAM50mUEPxAziEvDAf1K4epIZ9FHOATNLLXDNp3C6_IQqY1b44-OKWqhqD4p2c9p5KJdw4DWK6MPK8HepO9TzjOw_QPtz-KCipQr94rmQO/s1600-h/iguanas_1555070c.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinh7ihYGJ7Zej8iFu0-dyMOy_ZDWuIZfhURhnAM50mUEPxAziEvDAf1K4epIZ9FHOATNLLXDNp3C6_IQqY1b44-OKWqhqD4p2c9p5KJdw4DWK6MPK8HepO9TzjOw_QPtz-KCipQr94rmQO/s400/iguanas_1555070c.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424237174692848930" /></a><br />Did you know lizards go into a type of hibernation when the temperature drops below around 9 degrees C, all body functions but the heart switches off and blood flow is cut to a minimum. When this happens they lose their grip on the tree branches and drop out of the trees. The lizards, which grow up to five feet long, then lie grey and appear dead until the temperature rises again, at which time they usually revive. The "kamikaze" iguanas have become a common sight as temperatures have dropped almost to freezing. The green iguana, originally from Central and South America, is not native to Florida. It is regarded as one of the most invasive species since it was introduced into the ecosystem, by irresponsible pet owners, in the mid-1990s. It is legal to kill iguanas in Florida but only if it is done humanely. If somebody is looking to trap them, now would be a good time because they're not moving. With temperatures expected to fall even lower, many iguanas may not survive. These are sad F.A.C.T.S.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-14277878550378209262010-01-07T20:20:00.004-05:002010-01-08T09:47:54.072-05:00T: Is for Taking Care<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjJAgvTcoEWwSBk-pjgkSDIUW5po2y7MMBlSVwx0PTxt-4v8p87DA3gwqXyIARtvY0J6G1AoGreFB8gUKlFkuD1Sqj6FC_HtM8o8VOJDfdYyaeluhrLUHLpHUVub14u6t_iWgxi6jB7dj/s1600-h/100CtBag-LARGE.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 279px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjJAgvTcoEWwSBk-pjgkSDIUW5po2y7MMBlSVwx0PTxt-4v8p87DA3gwqXyIARtvY0J6G1AoGreFB8gUKlFkuD1Sqj6FC_HtM8o8VOJDfdYyaeluhrLUHLpHUVub14u6t_iWgxi6jB7dj/s400/100CtBag-LARGE.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424228040161668818" /></a><br />With all the talk about the H1N1 virus and flu season in full swing, a new product enters the market that offers hope. For those of us fearful at the shot being offered, there is an alternative. Ever since we were children, we were told to wash our hands before meals, after we sneezed or coughed, but with the fast paced lives we live, we forget those warnings. Hand sanitizers, which until now, have all been alcohol based, dry out our hands, which allows super viruses to enter through newly formed cracks. To the rescue… Microdine. This new hand scrub makes your hands inhospitable to viruses, for six count them six hours Microdine, literally repels them. FDA approved, Microdine, was originally used by doctors to scrub up before operating on patients. Easy to use, you just place a dime size portion onto your hands and paint it on, wipe it off. This non-irritating formula cleans, sanitizes, and disinfects while protecting and softening your skin. Microdine bonds to the skin to helping to promote healing, while killing 99.99% of all germs. Costing around 25 cents a wash Ron Gourley and DRSS Global have created the “must have” new product for the new decade. You can start combating germs right now on-line at www.microdine.com. And you can look for its official launch around late spring and these are the F.A.C.T.S.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-12778719339755422272010-01-06T09:32:00.003-05:002010-01-08T09:49:17.599-05:00C: Is for Coming Soon<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4-8BNvk-YuniiDuAHlLd_J0HJT1SCCDClEns0afeXEuEjyPxhft7WTK3WrqtKljYyqIS13dyXDSScC_jGK-NIY15HKikUaz7p-depBGKw4351MtQ8QU6IKa6mn0Hjq7tG7Yi__XLUUx0/s1600-h/new-broadway-season-2009-2010.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4-8BNvk-YuniiDuAHlLd_J0HJT1SCCDClEns0afeXEuEjyPxhft7WTK3WrqtKljYyqIS13dyXDSScC_jGK-NIY15HKikUaz7p-depBGKw4351MtQ8QU6IKa6mn0Hjq7tG7Yi__XLUUx0/s400/new-broadway-season-2009-2010.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422739986477632946" /></a><br />As the year ends and a new one begins, plays will come and go. Among the losses starting January 3rd: SHREK: The Musical, IRVING BERLIN'S WHITE CHRISTMAS and SUPERIOR DONUTS. January 10th sees THE 39 STEPS, BURN THE FLOOR, IN THE NEXT ROOM or The Vibrator Play. RAGTIME will join FINIAN'S RAINBOW and WISHFUL DRINKING, closing date of the 17th, unless it get another reprieve. And finally say, BYE BYE BIRDIE on the 24th. Some say this has to do with the recession, but if you look at last years list over 11 shows closed and this list is far less. Shows like SPRING AWAKENING left a hole for new recruits to fill the dwindling spaces. Shows on the forefront include: PRESENT LAUGHTER, Opening: January 21st. Victor Garber and Harriet Harris will seek to arouse our humor. Liev Schreiber and Scarlett Johansson, open: January 24th in the revival of Arthur Miller's drama. Laura Linney, Alicia Silverstone, Brian d'Arcy James and Eric Bogosian show us how TIME STANDS STILL, January 28th.<br />The is it here is it not musical SPIDER-MAN, TURN OFF THE DARK is set for a Febuary 25th preview. Helen Keller is revisited in <br />THE MIRACLE WORKER, March 3rd, while Christopher Walken is set for a world premire in A BEHANDING IN SPOKANE, March 4th. NEXT FALL is transferring from it's successful Off Broadway run March 11th. No longer Rhoda Valerie Harper, takes on Tallulah Bankhead March 14th in LOOPED. ALL ABOUT ME hits March 18th, while LEND ME A TENOR is directed by Stanley Tucci. I can not wait to click my fingers as THE ADDAMS FAMILY opens April 8th, and country fans have MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET April 11th to center on Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. HUGHIE/ KRAPP'S LAST TAPE<br />with Brian Dennehy makes it in time for Easter and LA CAGE AUX FOLLES has Frasier as the lead. SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM<br />April 22nd has Barbara Cook, Vanessa Williams and Leslie Kritzer. The 60's are back with a revival of PROMISES, PROMISES<br />opening April 25th with Kristin Chenoweth and Sean Hayes. London's financial scandal ENRON, opens April 27th. Alices' Linda Lavin is in COLLECTED STORIES, April 28th. The phantom lives again in LOVE NEVER DIES November 11th. While a date has not been set a theatre has, AMERICAN IDIOT: Green Day's musical opens where Finian's left off. Talk about a change of pace.<br /><br />Next year seems like a run on of words, but as you can see Broadway is far from over. <br /><br />Happy 2010! from F.A.C.T.S.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-42988172181967813522010-01-05T20:13:00.003-05:002010-01-08T09:48:58.959-05:00A: Is for Admired???????<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYP3DQBp4bszHHU5JfRN6hnz55EkOuBUj3V7hqMtcECPxxOxrLAueEEwE49v9NkXHwDfuIsIQvtAfmWpjNIocOO-V4ikByMfJgxWtEnmoIJodg1F0AXhs5bozMkqSEPtwP8W2Li4BbAf8/s1600-h/mostAdmired_081226_mn.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBYP3DQBp4bszHHU5JfRN6hnz55EkOuBUj3V7hqMtcECPxxOxrLAueEEwE49v9NkXHwDfuIsIQvtAfmWpjNIocOO-V4ikByMfJgxWtEnmoIJodg1F0AXhs5bozMkqSEPtwP8W2Li4BbAf8/s400/mostAdmired_081226_mn.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423432437112225970" /></a><br />Hillary Clinton narrowly edged Sarah Palin as the woman Americans admired most in 2009, while President Obama is the landslide winner among men for the second consecutive year. In the annual USA Today/Gallup poll, the secretary of state continues her reign as the most admired woman in the eyes of Americans, with 16% selecting her. If that wasn't bad enough Sarah Palin took 15% of the survey as the woman they admire most on the globe. I personally, want to know who was surveyed? Not one women I know, would ever vote for Ms. Palin as admirable. DIsgusting, over-rated, over publicized, yes but admiration takes doing something we can be proud of. What has she done? YThey also state that in 2008, Palin also ranked second behind Clinton, with 11% of Americans mentioning her. Who knew of her? Oprah Winfrey is #3 , with 8%, and First Lady Michelle Obama 4th. Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Queen Elizabeth II followed, with 2%.<br /><br />Among the men, Obama wins, with 30%. Last year, Obama won the top spot, with 32%, and both years' totals are among the highest Gallup has measured for a winner. Former President Bush took 39% in 2001, however, remains the all-time high for most admired man. Bush finished second again this year, after winning the honor from 2001-2007. So again who is voting? <br />Others in the top 10 include, former South African President Nelson Mandela, radio and TV personality Glenn Beck, and Pope Benedict XVI. Beck came in 4th, with 2%, edging out the pope, who came in 5th. Golf pro Tiger Woods tied former president Bill Clinton, both of whom have endured high-profile sex scandals, for 10th place. This year is Woods' first time ranking in the survey's top 10, despite the sex scandal that has dominated international headlines since late November.<br /><br />They say they telephone 1,025 adults nationwide and this gives us a consensus. Considering Sarah Palin made #2 I say they either polled the Christian right wing or the cast from Delverance. <br /><br /><br /><br />Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/2009/12/30/2009-12-30_hillary_clinton_is_the_mostadmired_woman_of_2009__but_sarah_palins_not_far_behin.html#ixzz0bn4UGDOx<br /><br />Now these are F.A.C.T.S.that should of been checked more.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-50728431384329980952010-01-04T00:21:00.001-05:002010-01-04T00:21:49.082-05:00F: is for Fat... or not!I took off a week due to holidays and the new issue of the paper coming out. To see that go to: www.t2conline.com<br /><br />We are so proud of this endeavor. We were given 10 newspaper boxes so we are officially legit and are a presence in Times Square!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9k78zXRUSNtgOncwS3gV5IuKMC_Pj0963z6NyUKYZ6uz_xWd-ZleoyfcBiZLGOERBdLwPUVdOkuh5l-kyoIg_zvJ6Q86dbzLKr7pEIKeZWowS7Lw1rHHtqbNf05KOlw40JILqOIj4yoe/s1600-h/image.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 239px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9k78zXRUSNtgOncwS3gV5IuKMC_Pj0963z6NyUKYZ6uz_xWd-ZleoyfcBiZLGOERBdLwPUVdOkuh5l-kyoIg_zvJ6Q86dbzLKr7pEIKeZWowS7Lw1rHHtqbNf05KOlw40JILqOIj4yoe/s400/image.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420150301286172418" /></a> With the death of Brittany Murphy, Margaux Laskey's previously acclaimed, award-winning and hilarious SIZE ATE returns to Off-Off-Broadway January 14 through January 16 for five (5) performances at the wild project (195 East 3rd Street – between Avenues A and B). Chronicling Ms. Laskey's humorous struggle with body and food issues she journeys towards self-acceptance. This is not just for women with "eating disordered." SIZE ATE explores universal themes of obsession, addiction, redemption and recovery through drama, song and imagery. Like the Dove billboard girls and plus-size model Crystal Renn's recently-released autobiography Hungry, offers a counter voice to the thin obsessed people like designer Ralph Lauren who fired Fillippa Hamilton, a 5'10" 120 pound model because she's "fat" and the supermodel Kate Moss who recently quipped, "Nothing tastes as good as being skinny feels." <br /><br />SIZE ATE premiered in NYC in November 2005, and won New York Innovative Theatre Award for Outstanding Solo Performance. <br /> Since then, Ms. Laskey, a recovering anorexic and compulsive dieter, has toured the show performing at colleges and conferences - including Columbia University, Barnard College, Pace, and SUNY New Paltz - as an alternative and entertaining outreach tool. Using nine life-size body forms labeled with the dress sizes that she has been at one time or another in her life - 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16. They serve as props, as punching bags, as dance partners, and the push and pull that tug at a woman's sense of self-worth. <br /> <br /> "If you refuse to look at things the way the world tells you to see them, you realize that anything is possible. The possibilities for your happiness, for your life, are limitless. Infinite."<br /><br />Each January performance will include a 30-minute post-show discussion and special guests.<br /><br />Thursday, January 14, 7pm<br />Friday, January 15, 2pm<br />Friday, January 15, 8pm<br />Saturday, January 16, 3pm<br />Saturday, January 16, 8pm<br /><br />TICKETS<br />Tickets are $20, $15 with a student I.D.<br />Available at www.thewildproject.com or by calling 212.352.3101.<br /><br />Fat is not always a F.A.C.T.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-20267378697734348992009-12-25T02:24:00.000-05:002009-12-25T02:25:16.928-05:00S: Is for Sad but True<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXd6Dyw2eaSs1noaM8cFR-V01uoTYL2jybE9KRX2eA-uiqRrw47OZrL0NTr_hbeoiVPgR_5UizVoLz24kwVx88u-1ofu1WbnTGjNwNOTjqf7IT3oeXEr3k_gC8ym7hH6O-0BwFYtQTSShL/s1600-h/images-2.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 135px; height: 90px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXd6Dyw2eaSs1noaM8cFR-V01uoTYL2jybE9KRX2eA-uiqRrw47OZrL0NTr_hbeoiVPgR_5UizVoLz24kwVx88u-1ofu1WbnTGjNwNOTjqf7IT3oeXEr3k_gC8ym7hH6O-0BwFYtQTSShL/s400/images-2.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418524639311481058" /></a><br />O COME YE INVESTORS<br />tune--O Come All Ye Faithful lyrics by Felonius Ax<br />O Come, ye investors, bold captains of commerce,<br />Let‚s get our products made in old Saipan.<br />Come for the people, peaceful and compliant<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them because we can!<br />See how consumers, blinded by low prices,<br />Leaving their ethics, come here to buy.<br />Into our pockets they will pour their dollars.<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them because we can!<br /><br />Child, in our sweatshops making designer watches,<br />Billionaires get richer from your twelve-hour days!<br /><br />Thus ends the F.A.C.T.S we need to face. <br />Who would not hire you for ten cents an hour?<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them because we can!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-30972386652192746532009-12-23T12:12:00.003-05:002009-12-25T02:24:06.867-05:00T: Is for Toys<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPirmMJcwmCCPiIe1fvX3U5ytsefs5kvAMB-6eOivX8ggMw9bWaSDubErysde5oHl-bXbmwVIYpjAWVLh9_C7MuOkyq1MuE1yb5RrCIvtRvAKYDgTh47IMCvxo1LlGy07E3DJalutFKPJX/s1600-h/images-3.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 85px; height: 127px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPirmMJcwmCCPiIe1fvX3U5ytsefs5kvAMB-6eOivX8ggMw9bWaSDubErysde5oHl-bXbmwVIYpjAWVLh9_C7MuOkyq1MuE1yb5RrCIvtRvAKYDgTh47IMCvxo1LlGy07E3DJalutFKPJX/s400/images-3.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418524164631360146" /></a><br />Toys For The World<br />(to the tune of "Joy To The World" by George F. Handel)<br /><br />Toys for the world are made by kids<br />And not by elves at all!<br />We work them night and day<br />For very little pay.<br />And little tiny hands<br />Make all your fav'rite brands<br />That fill up the shelves in every shopping mall.<br /><br />Toys for the world that Santa brings<br />So your sweet kids can play...<br />What's underneath your tree<br />Is our economy.<br />And all those girls and boys <br />Who make you're children's toys<br />Are not getting squat from us on Christmas Day!<br />They're not getting squat from us on Christmas Day!<br /><br />Toy F.A.C.T.S. we don't face.<br /><br />Lyrics by Felonius Ax<br />(aka Clifford J. Tasner)<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-17614962018408277972009-12-23T11:28:00.003-05:002009-12-23T14:59:33.373-05:00C: Is for Carols of a realistic kind<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOU7zTPxl1uKHl1tR1de9ZUlIxfPN8U6Pzw852-UQgsduF-gSUUDjDbKqohVBuME55p3v17D2XlxCtxtNEUJ0O4TXUU2Y9FaPpYKOR1cZGnlEYVjhPwrF0MGcsyFNmITT7U5n_gsdpHTsK/s1600-h/images.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 94px; height: 141px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOU7zTPxl1uKHl1tR1de9ZUlIxfPN8U6Pzw852-UQgsduF-gSUUDjDbKqohVBuME55p3v17D2XlxCtxtNEUJ0O4TXUU2Y9FaPpYKOR1cZGnlEYVjhPwrF0MGcsyFNmITT7U5n_gsdpHTsK/s400/images.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418523624554563554" /></a><br />CAROL OF THE BILLS tune--Carol of the Bells lyrics by Diva Denz<br />Closing Bell Rings! Fill your stockings!<br />With Market Shares, Nothing we'll Spare!<br />Capital Gains, Nothing Remains,<br />For pension plans, wage earning clans<br />Ding Dong, Ding Dong, that is our song!<br />With Closing Ring, Profiteering!<br />Ownership Race, we'll set the pace!<br />Glee we reap from, Unearned income!<br />Oh, how it pounds! Closing Bell Sounds!<br />Through halls of gold, so Rich and Bold!<br /><br />Gaily it rings, CEOs Sing<br />Songs of their gains. Free Market Reigns!<br />Social Social Social Social Security<br />Private Private Private Privatizing!<br /><br />On, the bell tolls, Divert Payrolls<br />Our elite tones, Drown working homes.<br />Closing Bell Rings! Fill your stockings!<br />With Market Shares, Nothing we'll Spare!<br />Capital Gains, Nothing Remains,<br />For pension plans, wage earning clans<br />Ding Dong, Ding Dong, that is our song!<br />With Closing Ring, Profiteering!<br />Ownership Race, we'll set the pace!<br />Glee we reap from, Unearned income!<br />Oh, how it pounds! Closing Bell Sounds!<br />Through halls of gold, so Rich and Bold!<br /><br />Gaily it rings, CEOs Sing<br />Songs of their gains. Free Market Reigns!<br />Social Social Social Social Security<br />Private Private Private Privatizing!<br /><br />On, the bell tolls, Divert Payrolls<br />Our elite tones, Drown working homes.<br />Ding Dong, Ding Dong<br /><br />F.A.C.T.S. we can't ignore.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-67497427443696206322009-12-22T09:41:00.004-05:002009-12-23T14:53:25.539-05:00A: is for accenting the problem<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eQ7LDJgOpARpvYi9Xn-vWJUHI1ACol1G0KXhnf_ZOwYpbpv91KvrNZTIzP-S2a8x7ExSIXHpQQRqLt_jpLcg-Hh8wuE-jyRBaVbsjsY9cC1lh8NwPJtI7YfnYXs_L77gTUJDNzKGFr27/s1600-h/images-1.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 137px; height: 103px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eQ7LDJgOpARpvYi9Xn-vWJUHI1ACol1G0KXhnf_ZOwYpbpv91KvrNZTIzP-S2a8x7ExSIXHpQQRqLt_jpLcg-Hh8wuE-jyRBaVbsjsY9cC1lh8NwPJtI7YfnYXs_L77gTUJDNzKGFr27/s400/images-1.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418522014876411938" /></a><br />Prison Cells<br />(to the tune of "Jingle Bells" by J. Pierpont)<br /><br />It's just a traffic stop - for D.W.B.<br />Then the cop plants drugs on you and busts you, one-two-three.<br />Or you could get popped - and if it's your third strike,<br />You'll get life in prison just for jacking someone's bike! Oh...<br /><br />(Chorus)<br />Prison cells, prison cells - don't you break the rules.<br />We spend more on prison cells than we spend on our schools!<br />Prison cells, prison cells - You'll be doing time.<br />We'll lock you up for forty years and say we're tough on crime!<br /><br />Here comes the D.A. Watch him rig the game.<br />He'll suppress the evidence that just might clear your name.<br />You could still appeal, but you're bound to fail.<br />Your court-appointed lawyer couldn't get Jesus out of jail! Oh...<br /><br />(Chorus)<br /><br />You'll be building toys. You'll be booking flights.<br />We'll force you to work so just forget about your rights.<br />We don't pay you much. You can't unionize.<br />Prison labor really makes our profit margin rise! Oh...<br /><br />(Chorus)<br /><br />We don't add no frills, nor rehabilitate.<br />We privatize the prisons and we get rich from the state.<br />If our venture fails, and if our stock should tank,<br />We'll let the public bail us out and laugh it to the bank! Oh...<br /><br />(Chorus)<br /><br />Lyrics by Felnonius A<br />(aka Clifford J. Tasner)<br /><br />These are scary F.A.C.T.S.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-9228531758506012532009-12-20T20:32:00.004-05:002009-12-23T14:49:52.939-05:00F: Is for farce<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfGNIK4bRiJX0qU50Xp7lrEpitI4I9hLK0sC1-RXWyFwxb6LBaDzvIGSPZ_hC8TjAevDta_O1VRbdc_37QdUnWCwJAIPzmml97Emuat5Go6Er1hYRdPAIVwCGvZvZkDiL8kfFaZCFaZ5pN/s1600-h/billionaires_bush_sr.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 350px; height: 333px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfGNIK4bRiJX0qU50Xp7lrEpitI4I9hLK0sC1-RXWyFwxb6LBaDzvIGSPZ_hC8TjAevDta_O1VRbdc_37QdUnWCwJAIPzmml97Emuat5Go6Er1hYRdPAIVwCGvZvZkDiL8kfFaZCFaZ5pN/s400/billionaires_bush_sr.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418521047729991026" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />There is an amazing group called Billionaires for Bush. They are a political satire group. My column this week is dedicated to their Christmas Carols all week. Enjoy <br /><br />O COME YE INVESTORS<br />tune--O Come All Ye Faithful lyrics by Felonius Ax<br />O Come, ye investors, bold captains of commerce,<br />Let‚s get our products made in old Saipan.<br />Come for the people, peaceful and compliant<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them because we can!<br />See how consumers, blinded by low prices,<br />Leaving their ethics, come here to buy.<br />Into our pockets they will pour their dollars.<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them because we can!<br /><br />Child, in our sweatshops making designer watches,<br />Billionaires get richer from your twelve-hour days!<br />Who would not hire you for ten cents an hour?<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them<br />O come let us exploit them because we can!<br /><br />Now these are F.A.C.T.S. we can not ignore.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-78167685748500356512009-12-20T15:58:00.003-05:002009-12-20T20:40:29.313-05:00S: Is for Showtime and the SAG awards.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7WSQDDu11A1x8J-X9PPhpPqjscEwv9t6E7gixdO3HOq3UmP0bBNSfeaX86qto4gf0ppTMYbdGZK90LpN1soy4COu_qE6H0ILCA1EysO-cGVt0J87V8_XEzEhCvUalUdHbEGGBZDTrAOGB/s1600-h/400_pcruz_gclooney_94484831_94273530_jmerritt_jkohen2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7WSQDDu11A1x8J-X9PPhpPqjscEwv9t6E7gixdO3HOq3UmP0bBNSfeaX86qto4gf0ppTMYbdGZK90LpN1soy4COu_qE6H0ILCA1EysO-cGVt0J87V8_XEzEhCvUalUdHbEGGBZDTrAOGB/s400/400_pcruz_gclooney_94484831_94273530_jmerritt_jkohen2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417498335065662274" /></a><br />T: Is for the theatre Gods<br /><br />Wondering what films to see, what video's to watch. The SAG nominations just came out. "An Education," "The Hurt Locker," "Inglourious Basterds," "Nine" and "Precious" took the nominations for best ensemble cast. Michelle Monaghan and Chris O'Donnell announced the nominations this morning at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood.<br /><br />Best Actor nods went to Jeff Bridges for "Crazy Heart," George Clooney for "Up in the Air," Colin Firth for "Single Man," Morgan Freeman for "Invictus" and Jeremy Renner for "The Hurt Locker."<br /><br />Best Actress: Sandra Bullock for "The Blind Side," Helen Mirren for "The Last Station," Carey Mulligan for "An Education," Gabourey Sidibe for "Precious" and Meryl Streep for "Julie and Julia."<br /><br />Supporting Actor: Matt Damon for "Invictus," Woody Harrelson for "The Messenger," Christopher Plummer for "The Last Station," Stanley Tucci for "The Lovely Bones" and Christop Waltz for "Inglourious Basterds."<br /><br />Supporting Actress: Penelope Cruz for "Nine," Vera Farmiga and Anna Kendrick for "Up in the Air," Diane Kruger for "Inglourious Basterds" and Mo'Nique for "Precious."<br /><br />Winners will be announced Jan. 23 in ceremonies at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.<br /><br />Ballots will be sent to the 120,000 members of the Screen Actors Guild.<br /><br />Did you know the SAG awards for best ensemble has matched the Oscar winner for Best Picture in seven of the last 14 years, including "Slumdog Millionaire."<br /><br />best actor has matched the Oscar winner in 11 of the last 15 years, including Sean Penn for "Milk."<br /><br />SAG's best actress winner has matched in 10 of 15 years. Streep won the SAG trophy this year for "Doubt" and Kate Winslet won the Oscar for "The Reader" after winning the SAG prize in the supporting category.<br /><br />Now these are film F.A.C.T.S.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-75140083296994256872009-12-17T11:15:00.002-05:002009-12-17T11:25:53.191-05:00T: Is for the terrifying F.A.C.T.S<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcV4xiyVJ0QteJI581FhyphenhyphenZR69yGKWUORFnu2TBMq4VeEj87youN13bMB0IjikBqbaq70MXfEfBuSEEv4W9iQ7AeN_kmMeHGhe9vqbbpY3Lu2z6e0VhlNjvbPQUzEldTdWCBlqhSKHJyOv5/s1600-h/t1larg.cali.prison.overcrowding.courtesy.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcV4xiyVJ0QteJI581FhyphenhyphenZR69yGKWUORFnu2TBMq4VeEj87youN13bMB0IjikBqbaq70MXfEfBuSEEv4W9iQ7AeN_kmMeHGhe9vqbbpY3Lu2z6e0VhlNjvbPQUzEldTdWCBlqhSKHJyOv5/s400/t1larg.cali.prison.overcrowding.courtesy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5416242063763913714" /></a><br />Does the thought of convicted attacker getting out of prison early make you feel sick. Convicts who have thrown victims from a moving vehicle, beat them until welts and bruises covered their bodies and then raped them are being released. This same criminal also was convicted of coercion and tampering with a witness. An "oversight" allowing violent offenders to get out early if they have a consecutive term that includes a non-violent crime has just passed. As budget deficits grow and the economy tumbles, governors and legislators are cutting costs by allowing inmates, mostly low-risk offenders, to leave prison earlier than laws previously permitted. Nationwide, more states are beginning to release thousands of inmates early by increasing "time off" provisions. Last week, figures from the U.S. Department of Justice indicated that in 2008 the growth of the prison population was slower than in any year since 2000. Inmates to be release 1,000, which could save $5 million a year. A panel of federal judges ordered California to reduce its prison population by 40,000 because of overcrowding. Governor Schwarzenegger proposed releasing 27,000 inmates. Officials say inmates released early usually were incarcerated for drug offenses or property crimes. The early release provisions will save $21.4 million in one state alone. A Pew Charitable Trusts study found, state spending on corrections soared to $49 billion a year, up from $11 billion 20 years before. Prison costs are the top expense in some states, sometimes higher than the amount spent on education.<br /><br />It seems crime does pay and soon there will be no stopping it because the punishment will be a slap on the hand. Now this is a terrifying F.A.C.T.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-61457176597287952892009-12-16T10:00:00.010-05:002009-12-17T09:58:20.379-05:00C: Is for Electronics Clean-Up<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMsMTckBeZ_IahezBZi2uXjRdDUrtusLb6GxXPGcaE-l5G3iTUBOuWYcrtYt8_JQUYOBzxpg-jnQM4V8P0hkBJNqySyWDdptCJL1xwlmdnOq7g1qyb3-__eY83dFhy2gyuUfgA59FFDtM6/s1600-h/greening-broadway-group-shot-300x200.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMsMTckBeZ_IahezBZi2uXjRdDUrtusLb6GxXPGcaE-l5G3iTUBOuWYcrtYt8_JQUYOBzxpg-jnQM4V8P0hkBJNqySyWDdptCJL1xwlmdnOq7g1qyb3-__eY83dFhy2gyuUfgA59FFDtM6/s400/greening-broadway-group-shot-300x200.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415852183687926738" /></a><br />'Tis the season of buying new and replacing old electronics, and to commemorate its one year anniversary, the Broadway Green Alliance will be hosting an industry-wide electronic waste (e-waste) collection for actors, stage crew, producers, general managers and theaters from across the Great White Way, sponsored by WeRecycle! There will be a presentation featuring Wicked and Next to Normal producer David Stone, Dr. Allen Hershkowitz, Senior Scientist at the Natural Resources Defense Council, and David Hurd, Director of Office of Recycling Outreach and Education, Council on the Environment of New York City.<br />Members of the casts of BGA shows, including Finian’s Rainbow, Guys & Dolls, Mamma Mia! 9 to 5, Phantom of the Opera, Ragtime, South Pacific, The Little Mermaid and Wicked, will perform two songs including an original song by composer John Mercurio.<br /><br />You can learn more about this at http://www.broadwaygreen.com/<br /><br />Where: DUFFY SQUARE, South side (between 45th + 47th streets; Broadway + 7th avenue) <br />When: WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2009 12:00pm – 12:30pm<br />What is the Broadway Green Alliance: The BGA was created in 2008 as an Ad Hoc Committee of the Broadway League. It is an industry-wide initiative that seeks to educate, motivate and inspire the theater community and its patrons to adopt environmentally friendlier practices in all aspects of theatre production and everyday life. Working closely with the NRDC, the BGA identifies and disseminates better practices for theatre professionals and reaches out to theatre fans throughout the country.<br /><br />What is E-waste? E-waste, or electronic waste, refers to old computers, cell phones, printers and other electronics that are no longer wanted. These products contain dangerous toxins like lead and mercury that should not be thrown in with the rest of the trash, but reused or recycled instead.<br /><br />How can theatre fans help? Today's e-waste drive was organized by the BGA but theatre fans can do their part by taking their old electronics to retailers with recycling programs, mailing them back to manufacturers, or organizing a recycling event in their community – visit www.nrdc.org/ewaste to find out how. And to make it easier in the future – New Yorkers can tell the Governor and their state representatives we need a statewide electronics recycling program.<br /><br />The Broadway Green Alliance (BGA), established in 2008 as an Ad Hoc Committee of The Broadway League, is an industry-wide initiative that seeks to educate, motivate and inspire the theater community and its patrons to adopt environmentally friendlier practices in all aspects of theatre production and everyday life. Working closely with the Natural Resources Defense Council, the BGA identifies and disseminates better practices for theatre professionals and reaches out to theatre fans throughout the country. <br /><br />twitter at “broadwaygreen” and that is a green F.A.C.T.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-54135192177227290352009-12-15T10:23:00.004-05:002009-12-15T10:46:16.588-05:00A: Is for stars joining Art revived<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2HHlKDjQzMRIMD-CiXxYY-yAr1Nm65HyZoHqnoHqtUaHDLq0cxmAWtF9ZIhy-I3y3JlDNk7sBwm6GeRst51ks1t-_iORCXo1k1hpcgoeH-KCYDJCdfxxhOZro3rwledamRxGUJUWgKtJ/s1600-h/71628-004-64FF46CD.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2HHlKDjQzMRIMD-CiXxYY-yAr1Nm65HyZoHqnoHqtUaHDLq0cxmAWtF9ZIhy-I3y3JlDNk7sBwm6GeRst51ks1t-_iORCXo1k1hpcgoeH-KCYDJCdfxxhOZro3rwledamRxGUJUWgKtJ/s400/71628-004-64FF46CD.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415489387472305890" /></a><br />Producers David Richenthal, Eric Falkenstein and Randall Wreghitt are pleased to announce that Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominee Matthew Modine (“And the Band Played On,” Short Cuts), Jennifer Morrison (Fox series “House M.D.,” the film Star Trek) and Tony Award winner Elizabeth Franz (Death of a Salesman) have joined the cast of the first revival of The Miracle Worker. The Tony Award winning play celebrates its 50th Anniversary of opening on Broadway.<br /> <br />Previously announced, The Miracle Worker will be directed by Kate Whoriskey (Ruined), will star Academy Award nominee Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine) and Tony Award nominee Alison Pill (The Lieutenant of Inishmore) as Helen Keller and Annie Sullivan, iconic roles made famous by Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke in the Tony Award winning play and landmark feature film adaptation.<br /> <br />A veteran of over 50 feature films Matthew Modine will make his Broadway debut in The Miracle Worker. He starred in Birdy, Married to the Mob, Vision Quest, Full Metal Jacket, Orphans, Pacific Heights and On Any Given Sunday. He earned Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominations for his performance in HBO's critically acclaimed and Emmy Award winning drama “And the Band Played On.” On stage he starred in the critically acclaimed Hartford Stage production of To Kill a Mockingbird and in the world premiere of Matthew Modine Saves the Alpacas at the Geffen Playhouse, a satire about the film industry. <br /> <br />Jennifer Morrison will make her Broadway debut in The Miracle Worker. She is best known for her role as “Dr. Allison Cameron” on the critically acclaimed television series “House M.D.” She recently appeared in the feature film Star Trek as “Captain James Kirk’s” mother “Winona.” Following making her film debut opposite Richard Gere and Sharon Stone in Intersection she has appeared in the feature films Stir of Echoes, Grind, Surviving Christmas and Mr. & Mrs. Smith. Morrison studied with the celebrated Steppenwolf Theatre Company and earned a theater degree from Loyola University. <br /><br />Tony Award winner Elizabeth Franz returns to Broadway for the first time since starring in the 2002 Tony Award nominated production of Morning’s at Seven for which was nominated for Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards. She is best known for her Tony Award winning performance as “Linda Loman” in the 1999 production of Death of a Salesman.<br /> <br />The Miracle Worker will be staged in the round for the first time at Circle in the Square Theatre (235 West 50 Street) and will opening Wednesday, March 3, 2010. Additional casting will be announced shortly.<br /> <br />Set in the South in the 1880s, THE MIRACLE WORKER tells the story of real-life blind and deaf Medal of Freedom winner Helen Keller, who suddenly lost her sight and hearing at the age of 19 months, and the extraordinary teacher who taught her to communicate with the world, Annie Sullivan.<br />THE MIRACLE WORKER originally opened at The Playhouse Theatre on October 19, 1959 and was awarded the 1960 Tony Award® for Best Play in addition to garnering leading lady Anne Bancroft a Tony Award® for Best Actress in a Play for the role of Annie Sullivan and a Theatre World Award for newcomer Patty Duke for her portrayal of Helen Keller. Both actresses received Academy Awards® for their work in the feature film adaptation.<br /> <br />www.miracleworkeronbroadway.com<br /> <br />Now this is a revival of a F.A.C.T.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-43927512421602737412009-12-14T11:25:00.004-05:002009-12-15T10:43:28.012-05:00F: is for finding shelter<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiptkgTPTy5Hrn8jRyL5x9o187_TDMNKLyDhMjY-J8ns8bV_cwrTnREq7DBtGTGIEVLeyqNTZQTCG-QqiLopcJpV06NWVS1E4A9nMj_B9EtDMK42VLNf7oIDNB3EJAp-0Y_Yk04tRAwW7_1/s1600-h/images.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 128px; height: 128px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiptkgTPTy5Hrn8jRyL5x9o187_TDMNKLyDhMjY-J8ns8bV_cwrTnREq7DBtGTGIEVLeyqNTZQTCG-QqiLopcJpV06NWVS1E4A9nMj_B9EtDMK42VLNf7oIDNB3EJAp-0Y_Yk04tRAwW7_1/s400/images.jpeg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415489053778746146" /></a><br />This year in Manhattan there’s been a bumper crop of hotel openings — and a few old ones getting a spruce up. Sadly, the stratospheric room rates, which normally start at about $600 a night in the top hotels, mean that staying in them is beyond the reach of most of us mere mortals. But that doesn’t mean you can’t dip in for an hour or two: hotels host some of the hippest restaurants and bars, and it’s often no harder to get a table than anywhere else in the city. Top ticket for dinner right now is Le Caprice, which opened last month as part of the relaunch of the Pierre after an 18-month renovation. The hotel is a towering monument to the days when the Astors, the Vanderbilts and the Carnegies threw up vast hotels at a rate to rival present-day Dubai. Last month the Crosby Street Hotel opened its doors in SoHo, the first outpost of British-owned Firmdale Hotels. Cucumber sandwiches beneath a set of Warhol-style pictures of the Queen — what could be more British? Locanda Verde is absolutely brilliant, offering unpretentious, hearty Italian food that won’t break the bank: $20 buys the portion of the most succulent garlic-roasted chicken. Tribeca, fast becoming movie central: DreamWorks has just moved in, the Weinsteins have set up home in the neighbourhood and Robert De Niro, who owns the Greenwich, has his office just around the corner.<br />The Ace Hotel has rooms that start at $99 a night.<br /><br />From swanky chic to retro charm:<br /><br />Crosby Street Hotel: Lime, pink and gold striped sofa — giddy-print fabrics and luxury bathrooms. Doubles from $495.<br /><br />The Surrey: Muted greys and creams, with nice touches from the 1930s and sumptuous beds. This is a hotel for locals — ex-Upper East Siders, or their relatives — utterly bling-free and with fabulous, warm service. Doubles from $629.<br /><br />The Greenwich: Shabby chic. Nice touches include in-room saunas and free soft drinks and sweets — but, best of all, some rooms have balconies overlooking the charming walled garden. Doubles from $459.<br /><br />The Ace: Retro — huge 1950s-style Smeg fridges for minibars, turntables rather than iPod docking stations and 1970s furniture — but don’t come looking for glam. Bunkbed doubles from $99 per night.<br /><br />Now these are F.A.C.T.S. for out of town guests.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-27300556814671535612009-12-10T00:48:00.010-05:002009-12-14T13:34:50.616-05:00S: is for focus on Service<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxJdhy0_L49kzR5Km1nE_P9AoeQoeVNLmMdsFSEcMG59PmS951Uwb-AA8AmOSX1k76m5REm_tcHi5pwAor7L3-CrOgcO05wvK8KfL5giqfQ46CQDOeJbPgHQXYTwR7oFX8MP5PISyDVDT/s1600-h/raisingthetree.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 350px; height: 373px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxJdhy0_L49kzR5Km1nE_P9AoeQoeVNLmMdsFSEcMG59PmS951Uwb-AA8AmOSX1k76m5REm_tcHi5pwAor7L3-CrOgcO05wvK8KfL5giqfQ46CQDOeJbPgHQXYTwR7oFX8MP5PISyDVDT/s400/raisingthetree.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415130289907308610" /></a> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The new video “WAR ON CHRISTMAS DAY” debuts today. This is the first video from Carol Hall’s award-winning CD, HALLWAYS, The Songs of Carol Hall. The song, “War On Christmas Day”, was inspired by a young Pvt 1st Class, a friend of Carol Hall’s family, who had just finished her second tour of duty. The video was made in gratitude and appreciation for the valiant men and women serving in our armed forces. Performed by Scott Coulter, Tim Di Pasqua and Tom Andersen, “War On Christmas Day,” is the 12th cut on the award-winning CD, and has lyrics by Carol Hall and music by Robert Burke. HALLWAYS, The Songs of Carol Hall (LML MUSIC) was originally released on March 11th, 2008 nationally in stores and online at iTunes and Amazon.com. The CD’s critical and popular success led to a second printing, which shipped January 20th, 2009. Most recently winning the Bistro ASCAP Award for Outstanding CD, the album is being readied for a third printing. In a time when we are celebrating those close to us, this video brings us back to reality. This video will move you like no other. How easy it is to forget we are missing our young who so bravely are giving their lives. What a gift and we forget to cherish that. This vedio gives us a reality check. To view the video go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agC3t3KOvRs<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-37970274780504915072009-12-09T02:29:00.004-05:002009-12-14T11:34:16.004-05:00T: is for the theatre Gods<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0GE4voa502aBDTMXD_tvFyadLWRpuHwqjVykxytydYkni-kKqKtCoW8Uz-FqHskQ8KXmPF9JW6GDXIrl7u_SM6oVhzhuERhWe2tKgIp6GQJ6UORzfzlSetrKCJZrDtE0nmNRvfJvT3l-/s1600-h/sondheim-concert_jpg_606x10000_q85.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0GE4voa502aBDTMXD_tvFyadLWRpuHwqjVykxytydYkni-kKqKtCoW8Uz-FqHskQ8KXmPF9JW6GDXIrl7u_SM6oVhzhuERhWe2tKgIp6GQJ6UORzfzlSetrKCJZrDtE0nmNRvfJvT3l-/s400/sondheim-concert_jpg_606x10000_q85.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413481469859325378" /></a><br />The theatre Gods are shouting with glee as the Roundabout Theatre Company announces Stephen Sondheim & James Lapine return to Studio 54 with Sondheim on Sondheim, a new original Broadway musical starring Barbara Cook, Vanessa Williams, Tom Wopat, Leslie Kritzer, Norm Lewis, Euan Morton & Matthew Scott. Music & lyrics are by Stephen Sondheim, and conceived & directed by James Lapine.<br /> <br />Sondheim on Sondheim will begin previews on March 19th, 2010 and open officially April 22nd, 2010 at Studio 54 on Broadway (254 West 54th Street). This will be a limited engagement through Sunday, June 13th, 2010.<br /> <br />It has been over 37 years since Barbara Cook appeared in a Broadway musical. Ms. Cook won the 1958 Tony Award for her portrayal of “Marian Paroo” in The Music Man. She has been called one of the greatest interpreters Sondheim and received a Tony Award nomination for Best Theatrical Event for her solo, limited engagement concert Mostly Sondheim in 2002.<br /> <br />Vanessa Williams received a 2002 Tony Award nomination for her performance of the “Witch” in Into the Woods and made her Broadway debut in 1994 in Kiss of the Spider Woman.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2696938873504111757.post-75374513760580994922009-12-09T02:24:00.002-05:002009-12-09T02:25:45.211-05:00C: Is for Carrie Newcomer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzw2LVebwtD0Rij0rOgl58zv1yPP7ErZPPwpYiZSkZz60X5rVc6l6qbJva3FceQCTlhy91owMjcdhegrMN7N9io8VxizOycyFh9PREfP1_uYwHwTa_NOX0AODzZ1iLXgQVuf_d6tk4DrP/s1600-h/carrie-3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 282px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzw2LVebwtD0Rij0rOgl58zv1yPP7ErZPPwpYiZSkZz60X5rVc6l6qbJva3FceQCTlhy91owMjcdhegrMN7N9io8VxizOycyFh9PREfP1_uYwHwTa_NOX0AODzZ1iLXgQVuf_d6tk4DrP/s400/carrie-3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412988492683712530"></a><br />Rounder Records announced Carrie Newcomer’s latest album Before and After, set for release on February 23rd, 2010. The acclaimed singer/songwriter has created a brand new album that captures her uniquely irreverent and spiritual take on the world. This latest release, Newcomer emphasizes “is not an album about being flashy or playing lot of notes, it’s about playing the most elegant notes and placing them perfectly.” And indeed, Before and After combines the very best of Newcomer’s folk-roots sound, overlaid with Appalachian and classical influences. Featuring a special guest appearance from Mary Chapin Carpenter, coupled with Newcomer’s voice, the album launches itself with an unforgettably haunting and beautiful collaboration from two of acoustic music’s most resonant female vocalists.<br /><br />Before and After is Newcomer’s twelfth release on Rounder, with prior albums including Regulars & Refugees, The Age of Possibility, The Gathering of Spirits, the Betty’s Diner collection and her last album, the critically acclaimed The Geography of Light. The melodious sound on Before and After results from closely working with a core of exceptional musicians who combine piano, violin, mandolin, cello, bass and percussion with Newcomer’s adept guitar work and soulful voice, which the Austin Statesman has described as being “as rich as Godiva chocolate.” As always, Newcomer’s work is inspired and influenced by her friendships and collaborations with influential authors, theologians and fellow songwriters, including Parker J. Palmer, Phillip Gulley, Jim Wallis, Brian McLaren, Scott Russell Sanders, Barbara Kingsolver and Jill Bolte Taylor.<br /><br />It is no surprise that her music has been praised in Rolling Stone, The Village Voice, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, Acoustic Guitar, Performing Songwriter, Paste Magazine and many other outlets. She has toured with Alison Krauss and Union Station, and her song “I Should’ve Known Better” was recorded by Nickel Creek on their Grammy®-winning, gold-selling album This Side. Her successful 2008 release, The Geography of Light, earned her Artist of the Year and Album of the Year from Folk Wax Magazine.<br /><br />In addition to a busy year of recording and touring, in 2009 Newcomer was invited by The American Centre to visit India as a cultural ambassador, where she met and performed concerts with Indian musicians, and taught workshops on songwriting and community involvement – continuing her emphasis on outreach and helping others. About her impressions of India, Newcomer says, “music can be a language deeper than words. I love our differences. Cultures are rich, and what makes each culture unique should be celebrated, but I was also powerfully moved by what we share as a human family.” <br /><br />For more information and upcoming tour dates, visit www.carrienewcomer.com and www.rounder.com.<br /><br />Her music reaches the heart of America and that is a F.A.C.T.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p id="blogfeeds"><$BlogFeedsVertical$></p></div>Suzanna Bowlinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08028860997545247376noreply@blogger.com0