by Maurice Michaane
Is the proposed healthcare legislation WORTH approving w/o a public option and/or medicare-buy-in?
Is forcing people to buy private insurance (with a government provided subsidy based on need) the way to help those without insurance?
Should the Dem majority in the Senate invoke reconciliation and approve the healthcare legislation w/ a public option and/or medicare-buy-in?
What in G-d's name have our Congressional members been doing for the past year if they pass a bill that doesn't help those without a job get insurance?
Why hasn't Obama taken a more active lead of the bills outcome?
Why is Obama willing to let this bill be watered down!
Provide your thoughts in the comment thread..............
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Jack Mackenroth in "living Positive by Design"
Posted by Father Tony
My friend and fellow New Yorker Jack Mackenroth hosts the first of a series of videos called "Living Positive by Design" sponsored by Merck.
My friend and fellow New Yorker Jack Mackenroth hosts the first of a series of videos called "Living Positive by Design" sponsored by Merck.
Monday, December 14, 2009
In the Next Room (or the vibrator play)
"In The Next Room or the vibrator play" presented by Lincoln Center Theatre at the Lyceum Theatre, December 5, 2009
(photo: uncredited from Theatremania.com)
Sarah Ruhl's first play on the Great White Way
Is a story of people, not so long ago.
Dr. Givings' new treatments are the talk of the day.
(He treats ladies' "hysteria," you know.)
The treatment releases congestion, you see,
not the head but the womb, with electricity
through a smooth knob that vibrates, applied for three minutes,
she gets her release, then sings like the linnets.
The Christmas Tree at Grand Army Plaza
Posted by Brooklyn Bill
This year, the lights on the Christmas tree at Grand Army Plaza are blue and green, a color combination I've always been partial to:
And now in closeup:
This year, the lights on the Christmas tree at Grand Army Plaza are blue and green, a color combination I've always been partial to:
Happy Holidays from the MTA!!
By Maurice Michaane
So this past Saturday I had dinner with Father Tony and his partner at Vatan Indian restaurant in Gramercy. We set 6:30pm as the meeting time! Low and behold, this high-maintenance queen was waiting, and it wasn’t until 6:55pm that they arrived.
So this past Saturday I had dinner with Father Tony and his partner at Vatan Indian restaurant in Gramercy. We set 6:30pm as the meeting time! Low and behold, this high-maintenance queen was waiting, and it wasn’t until 6:55pm that they arrived.
Why where they late? The 1-2-3 (the red line for you out of town folk) was having extreme delays. It’s the holiday season, and the MTA can’t even function the mass-transit efficiently during one of the busiest seasons of the year. As a life long New Yorker, I have wondered for years how the greatest city in the world can have such a dysfunctional and poorly managed mass-transit system. The MTA 2010 budget is upwards of $11billion according to a recent NYTimes article.
Headline after headline, the public is constantly reminded how the MTA spends our money frivolously. According to a recent report by NYS Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, “inefficiencies and redundancies in the process have cost the agency approximately $2.9 billion in unnecessary spending”. Want another example of out of control spending? The TWU (Transit Union) as part of their contract has 100% of the health care costs paid for. Most people in this country are “hire-at-will”, meaning they can be let-go at anytime, and do not have a “union contract”. Furthermore, most people pay a weekly/bi-weekly co-pay of their healthcare premium that their employer provides. Before returning to graduate school, I paid $30 every two weeks for my healthcare as part of my employee benefits. Lastly, after 25 or 30 years in the system, a transit union employee can retire with full benefits and a pension for life. And if it couldn’t get worse, the cash strapped MTA by judicial fiat is now forced to provide the 35,000 transit union workers a series of huge raises, costing somewhere around $100million to the taxpayer.
(Psst: Father Tony here, after the jump and the rest of Maurice's commentary, I've supplied a photo of Maurice at Vatan without his approval. He's so cute!)
(Psst: Father Tony here, after the jump and the rest of Maurice's commentary, I've supplied a photo of Maurice at Vatan without his approval. He's so cute!)
Kruger in the Closet? You Decide.
Posted by Father Tony
Joe reports on protesters at the Brooklyn home of unmarried Sen. Carl Kruger who voted against same-sex marriage. Looking to test out my reliable gaydar on the Kruger face, I was startled to find this photo (by Nikolai Komissarov) of Sen. Krugerrandy being entertained by Leonid The Magificent.
More startling photos of Krugerrandy and Brooklyn bombshell Leonid to make you go hmmm, after the jump.
Joe reports on protesters at the Brooklyn home of unmarried Sen. Carl Kruger who voted against same-sex marriage. Looking to test out my reliable gaydar on the Kruger face, I was startled to find this photo (by Nikolai Komissarov) of Sen. Krugerrandy being entertained by Leonid The Magificent.
More startling photos of Krugerrandy and Brooklyn bombshell Leonid to make you go hmmm, after the jump.
A Queer New York Christmas Moment
"I'd a like a Grande-Bold-RedEye-Six-Foot-Blue-Spruce."
"You want room in that?"
"Oh yes, under the tree."
THINK PINK
Posted by Donnie
(Associated Press photo)
Do you wear pink shirts? Do you love men in pink shirts? Do you reflect on whether wearing pink is appropriate? Is wearing pink so vogue, hipster and metro sexual that it's no longer fashion taboo or an indictment of one's sexual orientation? Has the gay stigma of wearing pink been removed as evidenced by stars such as Tiger above along with press labeled "metro sexual" soccer star Ronaldo ?
Sunday, December 13, 2009
I Love New York
By Baad Lamb
I love New York.
Everyone who knows me knows that.
I love New York and I never hesitate to say so. Even when The City is maddening, disappointing, difficult, selfish or unreasonably demanding, it remains easy to declare how much I love it. I love it despite its crazy contradictions, perhaps even because of them. Examples? A list of things I profess to dislike is nearly identical to a list of what makes New York New York. I find shopping for almost anything distasteful. I loathe crass commercialism and relentless consumerism, loud talkers in cramped spaces, waiting in unmoving lines, rude people, traffic jams, obscene wealth, political corruption, haphazard development, and lowest common denominator pop culture.
See what I mean? You would think I’d have ended up in a cabin in Montana, not a tiny studio apartment in one of the wealthiest zip codes in the city. But then, I love the cyclical layer upon layer of blink-and-you’ll-miss-it development and destruction, the architecture and art, the triple parked social schedules, and the fractal-like splintering of groups into sub-groups into ever smaller sub-groups, with every participant constantly on the move, uptown, downtown, across town, underground, performing for the judges, expecting to “win their category” in the absolutely unmatched continuous diversity parade that is every day in New York.
Two thoughts:
But then there are the details - the cracks and crevasses, the blotches and blobs, pipes, conduits, rust and remnants that decorate the city. An architectural patina of man-made and organic entropy catching the eye of the contrary (those looking down when everyone else is pointing up), or the explorer on the fringe, hoping to find, in that totally forgotten back alley, architectural ruin or industrial wasteland, a decaying mechanical device of unrecognizable purpose or a concrete Ozymandias, silently guarding the secrets of one or many generations of laborers and immigrants, those who began the palimpsest we call New York.
I love New York.
Everyone who knows me knows that.
I love New York and I never hesitate to say so. Even when The City is maddening, disappointing, difficult, selfish or unreasonably demanding, it remains easy to declare how much I love it. I love it despite its crazy contradictions, perhaps even because of them. Examples? A list of things I profess to dislike is nearly identical to a list of what makes New York New York. I find shopping for almost anything distasteful. I loathe crass commercialism and relentless consumerism, loud talkers in cramped spaces, waiting in unmoving lines, rude people, traffic jams, obscene wealth, political corruption, haphazard development, and lowest common denominator pop culture.
See what I mean? You would think I’d have ended up in a cabin in Montana, not a tiny studio apartment in one of the wealthiest zip codes in the city. But then, I love the cyclical layer upon layer of blink-and-you’ll-miss-it development and destruction, the architecture and art, the triple parked social schedules, and the fractal-like splintering of groups into sub-groups into ever smaller sub-groups, with every participant constantly on the move, uptown, downtown, across town, underground, performing for the judges, expecting to “win their category” in the absolutely unmatched continuous diversity parade that is every day in New York.
Two thoughts:
It is often stated that you can’t appreciate beauty without knowing what ugly is.
Elevating annoyance to the superlative transforms it into fascination.
In New York, the stimulation is constant. Beauty and filth, color and chaos, serenity and sensationalism, insight and impact, dark corners and bright lights. Attention must be paid, demands the urban landscape, in Helvetica Extra Bold and underlined.
I love the electricity buzzing through the sidewalks, the buildings shedding their skin, falling down, and sprouting up like weeds, sometimes even exploding, all quite literally.
You could easily spend a lifetime - maybe two, attempting to categorize, quantify, critique, or just contain what New York presents, and to many it would be more than enough.
But then there are the details - the cracks and crevasses, the blotches and blobs, pipes, conduits, rust and remnants that decorate the city. An architectural patina of man-made and organic entropy catching the eye of the contrary (those looking down when everyone else is pointing up), or the explorer on the fringe, hoping to find, in that totally forgotten back alley, architectural ruin or industrial wasteland, a decaying mechanical device of unrecognizable purpose or a concrete Ozymandias, silently guarding the secrets of one or many generations of laborers and immigrants, those who began the palimpsest we call New York.
Then, since this is New York, I look up and see a crowd surrounding me, digital cameras ready, looking for exactly the same thing.
Guess I found my sub-group (or they found me).
Here, for your enjoyment, is an iMovie/Garage Band video I made from some of those pictures. (This is my first attempt at original music.) There are some architectural details large enough to be recognizable, but mostly an obvious obsession with rusty metal, storm drains and other industrial design remnants. See anything you recognize?
A Queer New York Christmas Greeting
Posted by Father Tony
This is for all of you who are out of town and longing for a cheerful New York City Christmas moment. Yesterday we stopped to enjoy this group of carolers on 5th Avenue. (I've added in some other photos taken yesterday of Radio City, the Rockefeller tree, Lincoln Center, the windows at Bergdorf's, and the Plaza Hotel.)
This is for all of you who are out of town and longing for a cheerful New York City Christmas moment. Yesterday we stopped to enjoy this group of carolers on 5th Avenue. (I've added in some other photos taken yesterday of Radio City, the Rockefeller tree, Lincoln Center, the windows at Bergdorf's, and the Plaza Hotel.)
SantaCon
Posted by David
One of the keys to living in New York is riding the waves of serendipity. Often it is all about being in the right place at the right time. Sometimes you are in the right place at the right time but don't find out until later ("What? Madonna and Cher had a cat fight in front of the Marriott Marquis yesterday? But I was in Times Square yesterday! How did I miss that?") Other times you are in the right place but at the wrong time ("May I take your order? By the way, if you'd been here an hour earlier you'd have seen the Obamas feeding each other creme brulee.")
But sometimes you nail it, and then New York unfolds its magic for you.
I was just finishing my workout at the gym (I'm gay and this is NYC, so it's the law) when my phone buzzed and a friend's text announced: "I'm at SantaCon! Where are you?"
OMG! I'd seen people earlier in the day wandering about in Santa and other related holiday costumes and knew something was up.
Even while I was heading to the gym, I saw groups in Xmas regalia marching past. Yet I couldn't put two and two together.
But as luck would have it, SantaCon was convening at Washington Square Park, a mere ten minute walk from my gym. So I threw on my clothes, grabbed my camera, (which I had brought along because it was 12 of 12 day. More serendipity), and dashed and danced and pranced over to the park.
More photos and video after the jump!
One of the keys to living in New York is riding the waves of serendipity. Often it is all about being in the right place at the right time. Sometimes you are in the right place at the right time but don't find out until later ("What? Madonna and Cher had a cat fight in front of the Marriott Marquis yesterday? But I was in Times Square yesterday! How did I miss that?") Other times you are in the right place but at the wrong time ("May I take your order? By the way, if you'd been here an hour earlier you'd have seen the Obamas feeding each other creme brulee.")
But sometimes you nail it, and then New York unfolds its magic for you.
I was just finishing my workout at the gym (I'm gay and this is NYC, so it's the law) when my phone buzzed and a friend's text announced: "I'm at SantaCon! Where are you?"
OMG! I'd seen people earlier in the day wandering about in Santa and other related holiday costumes and knew something was up.
Even while I was heading to the gym, I saw groups in Xmas regalia marching past. Yet I couldn't put two and two together.
But as luck would have it, SantaCon was convening at Washington Square Park, a mere ten minute walk from my gym. So I threw on my clothes, grabbed my camera, (which I had brought along because it was 12 of 12 day. More serendipity), and dashed and danced and pranced over to the park.
More photos and video after the jump!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Governor Paterson Praises Wall Street; Senator Perkins Pushes Back
Posted by Brooklyn Bill
I was taken aback when Governor David Paterson defended Wall Street's immense year-end bonuses the other day during a speech at the Museum of American Finance. Especially while using such ridiculous phrasing as "you don't hear anybody in New England complaining about clam chowder. You don't hear anybody in Maryland complaining about crab cakes." Really, governor? Did I miss the gajillion-dollar seafood-dish industry bailout following rampant speculation on shellfish, potatoes, and bread crumbs? And to talk about people getting strung up in Texas, as he did later in his speech, even if the people in question are those who criticize the oil industry, was in poor taste.
I'm glad to see that State Senator Bill Perkins, whose district includes Harlem, Morningside Heights, Washington Heights, and part of the Upper West Side, is pushing back against the governor's not-at-all-nuanced remarks. I understand the state is in dire need of revenue, but I'm so tired of living in a world where most politicians won't speak even a little bit of truth to the powerful for fear of losing out on campaign donations. "Wall Street needs to resurrect, but they should be criticized when they do wrong like anyone else," Perkins is quoted as saying in the Wonkster post I linked to above. "It makes my constituents wonder, 'What about me? I don't even have a job.'"
Many queer New Yorkers have warm feelings toward Paterson because of his steadfast support of gay marriage. His speech on Wednesday chilled me by a few degrees.
I was taken aback when Governor David Paterson defended Wall Street's immense year-end bonuses the other day during a speech at the Museum of American Finance. Especially while using such ridiculous phrasing as "you don't hear anybody in New England complaining about clam chowder. You don't hear anybody in Maryland complaining about crab cakes." Really, governor? Did I miss the gajillion-dollar seafood-dish industry bailout following rampant speculation on shellfish, potatoes, and bread crumbs? And to talk about people getting strung up in Texas, as he did later in his speech, even if the people in question are those who criticize the oil industry, was in poor taste.
I'm glad to see that State Senator Bill Perkins, whose district includes Harlem, Morningside Heights, Washington Heights, and part of the Upper West Side, is pushing back against the governor's not-at-all-nuanced remarks. I understand the state is in dire need of revenue, but I'm so tired of living in a world where most politicians won't speak even a little bit of truth to the powerful for fear of losing out on campaign donations. "Wall Street needs to resurrect, but they should be criticized when they do wrong like anyone else," Perkins is quoted as saying in the Wonkster post I linked to above. "It makes my constituents wonder, 'What about me? I don't even have a job.'"
Many queer New Yorkers have warm feelings toward Paterson because of his steadfast support of gay marriage. His speech on Wednesday chilled me by a few degrees.
SILVER FOX
Posted by Darling!
Adult film star, escort and author Aiden Shaw launches a new book
Sordid Truths: Selling My Innocence for a Taste of Stardom.
Photo credit: Towleroad. Head on over there for the article.
Adult film star, escort and author Aiden Shaw launches a new book
Sordid Truths: Selling My Innocence for a Taste of Stardom.
Photo credit: Towleroad. Head on over there for the article.
Barclays Capital Grove
Posted by Father Tony
You don't see this intriguing little park from Columbus Avenue when you walk by Lincoln Center. It's between Avery Fisher Hall and The New York Public Library of the Performing Arts /Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater/Vivian Beaumont Theater. The Paris evocative crushed stone is slightly elevated. The London Plane trees are regimentally clipped. The chairs are mid-century wow-wire. To one side is a Henry Moore floating on water. In front of the library is a crouching Calder. There is so much about Lincoln Center to enjoy and so much more to come as the renovations are completed. We'll be bringing it all to you (plus a tirade about the new cafe), but for now, here's a clickable picture of the Baad Lamb relaxing in the Barclays Capital Grove.
You don't see this intriguing little park from Columbus Avenue when you walk by Lincoln Center. It's between Avery Fisher Hall and The New York Public Library of the Performing Arts /Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater/Vivian Beaumont Theater. The Paris evocative crushed stone is slightly elevated. The London Plane trees are regimentally clipped. The chairs are mid-century wow-wire. To one side is a Henry Moore floating on water. In front of the library is a crouching Calder. There is so much about Lincoln Center to enjoy and so much more to come as the renovations are completed. We'll be bringing it all to you (plus a tirade about the new cafe), but for now, here's a clickable picture of the Baad Lamb relaxing in the Barclays Capital Grove.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Gyoza, Glinda and Glambert
I had an interesting evening this past Monday.
I re-connected with a good friend who I hadn't seen in a few months. We'd both been busy but had made plans to get together for drinks and dinner. We met up after work and walked up from Christopher Street into Chelsea and settled on a Japanese restaurant for dinner. Conversation picked up pretty easily, as it does with good friends even if you haven't seen them for a while. We talked about work, romance, travels, cats and such. It was very pleasant. I also - amazingly - had my head together enough to remember to bring her container of holiday cookies, as she and her husband were leaving in a few days for a five week trip to Thailand to visit family.
We each had a glass of wine and chatted for about two hours then headed out for another stroll, as it was a clear and not-too-cold December evening. We then decided that we deserved dessert and headed to the Donut Pub on West 14th. Its one of those good old fashioned coffee shops that have doughnuts and muffins in the window and a long counter for patrons. I had a cinnamon swirl and a cup of tea and my friend had some mini-doughnuts and a coffee. We talked more and then headed to our next destination.
(More, and a Glambert photo after the jump!)
I re-connected with a good friend who I hadn't seen in a few months. We'd both been busy but had made plans to get together for drinks and dinner. We met up after work and walked up from Christopher Street into Chelsea and settled on a Japanese restaurant for dinner. Conversation picked up pretty easily, as it does with good friends even if you haven't seen them for a while. We talked about work, romance, travels, cats and such. It was very pleasant. I also - amazingly - had my head together enough to remember to bring her container of holiday cookies, as she and her husband were leaving in a few days for a five week trip to Thailand to visit family.
We each had a glass of wine and chatted for about two hours then headed out for another stroll, as it was a clear and not-too-cold December evening. We then decided that we deserved dessert and headed to the Donut Pub on West 14th. Its one of those good old fashioned coffee shops that have doughnuts and muffins in the window and a long counter for patrons. I had a cinnamon swirl and a cup of tea and my friend had some mini-doughnuts and a coffee. We talked more and then headed to our next destination.
(More, and a Glambert photo after the jump!)
Queer New York Wine List - I'll Try the Malbec
Posted by Father Tony
I'm in the supermarket looking for a good red (near a label-studying porn star and his friend, incidentally) when I spied this $17 bottle of American malbec. That's more than I ordinarily pay for malbec but I wanted to compare the California and Argentina versions. (We first developed an affection for malbec while vacationing in Buenos Aires.)
Malbec is a powerful, big-mouthed jammy wine, rather like shiraz, I think. Drinking malbec is like having Marlon Brando as Stanley Kowalski in bed.
My opinion of the Coppola malbec and my recommendation for an excellent (and only $11!) malbec after the jump.
Queens Dirty Dancing
Father Tony sent me a news article from the New York Post reporting on a possible gay hate crime attack in which Tarlach MacNiallais, (pictured above with brother Brendan) was thrown out and beaten by bouncers employed at the Guadalajara De Noche a Mexican restaurant in Jackson Heights Queens, N.Y. Tarlach is a well known gay Irish American and a board member of ILGO who along with Speaker Quinn sought inclusion of GLBT's in the annual Saint Patricks Day Parade In New York.
During an interview Tarlach stated " he was punched and kicked and had a chair smashed over his head all because he was observed dancing with another man. He further alleged that the bouncer stated "you can't do that here this is not a gay bar".The NYPD is currently investigating this as a possible hate crime incident. I don't know the extent of any injuries but I hope Tarlach is recovering from any injuries he may have sustained.
Queens District Attorney Robert Brown only several weeks ago arraigned a man for a hate crime committed against a gay man Jack Price who was savagely beaten while exiting a deli. DA Brown stated in response to this horrific crime ; "As American each of us is free to chose where and how we want to live our lives".
Let's hope both Brown and the NYPD Detectives arrest and prosecute those persons responsible for assaulting Tarlach. As I was writting this Queerty is reporting the incident.
NYC Gay Men's Chorus Christmas Concert: Together at Town Hall
Posted by Beau RN
My good friend Rob, who sang with the NYC Gay Men's Chorus for a decade before moving to Seattle last year, reminded me of the upcoming Gay Men's Chorus Christmas concert. They are having two shows on December 20th and will be joined by the Tony-award winning Victoria Clark.
I have attended the NYC Gay Men's Chorus Christmas concert numerous times, typically at Carnegie Hall in past years, and it has always been a powerful and moving experience for me. To see a stage filled up with hundreds of men, all bringing their passion for singing in a chorus, is overwhelming. I have no doubt this year will be just as spectacular.
The NYC Gay Mens Chorus: Together at Town Hall
Town Hall, 123 W 43rd St
Tickets can be ordered here: http://www.nycgmc.org/Event.aspx?EventId=TTH2009
I have attended the NYC Gay Men's Chorus Christmas concert numerous times, typically at Carnegie Hall in past years, and it has always been a powerful and moving experience for me. To see a stage filled up with hundreds of men, all bringing their passion for singing in a chorus, is overwhelming. I have no doubt this year will be just as spectacular.
The NYC Gay Mens Chorus: Together at Town Hall
"A Holiday Celebration of the Power of Love"
December 20th 3:00PM and December 20th 8:00PM
Town Hall, 123 W 43rd St
New York, NY
Tickets can be ordered here: http://www.nycgmc.org/Event.aspx?EventId=TTH2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Mitchell Gold - A Queer New York Video Interview
Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams are the founders of the internationally acclaimed home furnishings company Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams offering furniture, lighting, rugs and accessories designed to make people comfortable. They have a store in Manhattan at 210 Lafayette (at Kenmare Square). Mitchell is also a tireless and generous gay activist. He and I have been arguing via email about leadership in the gay activist community and about how to combat homophobia in organized religion.
In my video interview with Mitchell Gold, after the jump, you'll get two minutes about his new book (more of an intellectual approach to home furnishing than I expected), and five minutes of strong words about gay leadership and strategies. I was impressed.
Justin Bond's Christmas Spells - Quick Review
Posted by riot:
Justin Bond's Christmas Spells
December 9 through 12, 8:00pm
Abrons Arts Center, 466 Grand Street, 212-598-0400
Buy Tickets
I must admit to my bias right off the bat. I love Justin Bond. I learned about him at the end of the Kiki & Herb run, so I'm making up for my tardiness with enthusiasm. And it isn't difficult--he stole my heart with his cover of Radiohead's "Weird Fishes" at Le Poisson Rouge. I'm a fan.
PAPI - Queer New York Slang
Posted by Father Tony
I like papi. It is not limited to men or women, young or old.
Do not confuse it with "daddy" or "silver daddy" just because of its specific etymology.
Sighing "Ai papi" while having sex is a good thing. ( I once met a man who sighed "Oy papi" from the depths of his melting pot....)
Being called "papi chulo" is always a good thing.
Be advised, Spanish-speakers may argue about this word's connotations but I have never heard it used pejoratively. Also, "papi" is not the plural of "papo" which is an acceptable version of "papi".
I like papi. It is not limited to men or women, young or old.
Do not confuse it with "daddy" or "silver daddy" just because of its specific etymology.
Sighing "Ai papi" while having sex is a good thing. ( I once met a man who sighed "Oy papi" from the depths of his melting pot....)
Being called "papi chulo" is always a good thing.
Be advised, Spanish-speakers may argue about this word's connotations but I have never heard it used pejoratively. Also, "papi" is not the plural of "papo" which is an acceptable version of "papi".
Smallest Apartment in New York City
Posted by Father Tony
I will never again complain about our 550 square. Read the story in the New York Post and take a look at the ten pics.
The fact that they don't cook is typical, but the way they use their dry cleaners as a closet is startling! If their marriage (and the two cats!) can survive this....
I will never again complain about our 550 square. Read the story in the New York Post and take a look at the ten pics.
The fact that they don't cook is typical, but the way they use their dry cleaners as a closet is startling! If their marriage (and the two cats!) can survive this....
Please Mr. Postman, more letters like this one.
Posted by Father Tony:
A letter from Birdie:
I'm really enjoying this love letter to NYC. I'm getting to know better the city I fell in love with when I visited for the first time on my 50th birthday. It feels intimate on your new blog. I like the greater attention to personal stories rather than news, which has its place occasionally.
You've mentioned several times Baad Lamb's infatuation with architecture. When I saw the new logo, my first thought was that I would like to know more about it. What is its history? What does it represent? Articles and pictures about NYC's architecture would be fascinating. I don't know if the Baad lamb is at all interested in writing posts like that, but I'm betting the QNY audience would be interested in reading them.
Let me take this moment to tell you about the little video you ran on the Art Burn. Without it, I would have totally dismissed the experience. But your interviews with the promoters helped me get performance art for the first time. I caught the sense of NOW, that this moment existed for itself and for no other time, so take from it what you can. (I like to live that philosophy anyway, but I've never understood it as applied to art. No understanding.) The sense of fun was unmistakable, and I enjoyed the moment for what it was. The spark—no pun intended, but isn't it great?—was the Bradbury book that started the Burn. Perfect. (I taught that book for several years to young teens.) Anyway, thank you for that. One of these days, I would love to have you take me to an art gallery to see it through your eyes.
B.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Crafty Mark Heskin
Posted by Brooklyn Bill
My friend Mark Heskin's doll-making business took off in a pretty gay way. He made dolls of the Wizard of Oz characters and put them in the window of a laundromat along with a sign that provided his phone number and his services as a creator of custom-made soft-sculpture dolls.
His next marketing move was placing eyeglasses-wearing dolls in the store windows of various opticians on streets with high pedestrian traffic. The stores gained a cute way to show off their frames, and Mark got more and more customers.
My friend Mark Heskin's doll-making business took off in a pretty gay way. He made dolls of the Wizard of Oz characters and put them in the window of a laundromat along with a sign that provided his phone number and his services as a creator of custom-made soft-sculpture dolls.
His next marketing move was placing eyeglasses-wearing dolls in the store windows of various opticians on streets with high pedestrian traffic. The stores gained a cute way to show off their frames, and Mark got more and more customers.
That was back in the mid '80s. Mark had moved to the city from North Dakota after graduating high school in 1978 and getting a job as a nanny. He also worked on the side as an extra in TV shows and movies being shot in the city. When, at the age of 26, he felt confident he could make a living from the dolls, he quit his live-in childcare gig and bought his apartment on West 72nd Street, a very short walk from Central Park.
Disney's The Sorcerer's Apprentice: New York Coming Attractions
Posted by Beau RN
I have to confess even though I'm a geek from head to toe and pride myself on being aware of forthcoming movies, I missed the memo when Disney greenlit a live action version of their 1940's "The Sorcerer's Apprentice". Greenlit it with Nicolas Cage and the Whole Lotta Jew Fire dude from "Nick & Nora's Playlist". Seriously, WTF?
The trailer for "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" was released yesterday to what appears to be some anticipatory fanboy fanfare so I watched it just to get a read on how this might go. I think it might go right in the toilet, to be honest.
BUT! And there is always a BUT, what I loved about the trailer is the opening scene when the great metallic gargoyles that thrust out from New York's Chrysler Building start moving and then fly off the building to do the Sorcerer's bidding. Who has ever looked at the Chrysler Building and not wanted those great Art-Deco avians to spread their wings and take flight over the city?
The win for me in this movie, if I'm going to be pleasant and positive since it won't be released until July 2010, is that was filmed all over New York City last summer. I can sit through a total suck of a movie if it is in New York so I can make due with watching for all the places I love and frequent in the city, if only to gloat to everyone not living here. So yes, despite my misgivings and growing sense of suck, I'll be in the theater this July to see "The Sorcerer's Apprentice".
New York City movies are one of those almost insignificant things that keeps me loving the city just a little bit more.
I have to confess even though I'm a geek from head to toe and pride myself on being aware of forthcoming movies, I missed the memo when Disney greenlit a live action version of their 1940's "The Sorcerer's Apprentice". Greenlit it with Nicolas Cage and the Whole Lotta Jew Fire dude from "Nick & Nora's Playlist". Seriously, WTF?
The trailer for "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" was released yesterday to what appears to be some anticipatory fanboy fanfare so I watched it just to get a read on how this might go. I think it might go right in the toilet, to be honest.
BUT! And there is always a BUT, what I loved about the trailer is the opening scene when the great metallic gargoyles that thrust out from New York's Chrysler Building start moving and then fly off the building to do the Sorcerer's bidding. Who has ever looked at the Chrysler Building and not wanted those great Art-Deco avians to spread their wings and take flight over the city?
(The Chrysler Building photo by Margaret Bourke-White)
The win for me in this movie, if I'm going to be pleasant and positive since it won't be released until July 2010, is that was filmed all over New York City last summer. I can sit through a total suck of a movie if it is in New York so I can make due with watching for all the places I love and frequent in the city, if only to gloat to everyone not living here. So yes, despite my misgivings and growing sense of suck, I'll be in the theater this July to see "The Sorcerer's Apprentice".
New York City movies are one of those almost insignificant things that keeps me loving the city just a little bit more.
Private Lives Revealed: The Letters of Noel Coward
"Private Lives Revealed: The Letters of Noel Coward" at St. Ann's Warehouse, December 7, 2009
(photo from Library of Congress collection)
An evening of highlights from his book The Letters of Noel Coward, Barry Day (looking a bit like a Springer Spaniel with his Dickensian sideburns brushing his collar) narrates as Anna Bergman, Patricia Conolly, Edward Hibbert, and Dana Ivey read as Mr. Coward and his correspondents, accompanied by Steve Ross on piano.
Mr. Day opened the evening with a quote from Mr. Coward's dear friend, Lord Mountbatten on the event of Coward's seventieth birthday:
"There are probably greater painters than Noël, greater novelists than Noël, greater librettists, greater composers of music, greater singers, greater dancers, greater comedians, greater tragedians, greater stage producers, greater film directors, greater cabaret artists, greater TV stars. If there are, they are fourteen different people. Only one man combined all fourteen different labels – The Master."
Mr. Day did not dive particularly deeply for this presentation, compared to the depths he explored in his book. It's very much a theatrical focus, starting with letters to and from Mr. Coward and his beloved mother, Viola. Things move quickly as his career advances, to his relationship with the Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne. Gertrude Lawrence is up next, followed by a quick dish on Mary Martin, who clashed with Noel over his "Pacific 1860." A word of advice to her followed on what NOT to say to Princess Margaret.
There's a hop and a skip on to "Stritchie" with a bon mot or two about Dietrich and Garbo. A couple of drive-by barbs take aim at David Niven, Clifton Webb and Ian Fleming as his life shifted to Jamaica. I was sorry that they spent so little time on Mr. Coward's intelligence activities during WWII, since that makes up a major portion of the book. Only a mere mention of his time in Paris felt like such a discount of the years he spent traveling the world on behalf of his country and the war effort. When I read it last summer, I was really surprised and touched over his affection and devotion to "Mother England."
Mr. Hibbert managed nicely, reading as Mr. Coward. Ms. Ivey fared better as Viola than Ms. Stritch and Ms. Conolly's Gertie was lovely. The songs were interspersed effectively, but I thought they should have ended with the more upbeat "I Went To A Marvelous Party" instead of "The Party's Over," though the sentimentality of the latter may have been truer to what Mr. Coward may have done himself.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
STONEWALL 1965 - A MEMORY
Posted by Darling!
I'd been to New York City twice before. The first time I was only nine years old on vacation with Mom and Dad. We stayed at The Taft Hotel near Times Square, where The Lester Lanin Orchestra played during dinner. I had a good laugh watching my Dad bounce up and down as he Fox-trotted Mother around the dance floor.
Some seven years later, I spent a weekend with my best friend and favorite lesbian Pat, staying at a co-ed YMCA on 34th street. At night we some how ended up in Little Italy at a mixed gay girl and guy bar called The Gold Bug.
This was now the summer of 1965. I was 17 years old still living with my parents in Michigan. And on this third visit I was by myself for the weekend. I didn't have any plans other then to go and explore the gay life of the city.
(More, and a photo from that trip, after the jump!)
I'd been to New York City twice before. The first time I was only nine years old on vacation with Mom and Dad. We stayed at The Taft Hotel near Times Square, where The Lester Lanin Orchestra played during dinner. I had a good laugh watching my Dad bounce up and down as he Fox-trotted Mother around the dance floor.
Some seven years later, I spent a weekend with my best friend and favorite lesbian Pat, staying at a co-ed YMCA on 34th street. At night we some how ended up in Little Italy at a mixed gay girl and guy bar called The Gold Bug.
This was now the summer of 1965. I was 17 years old still living with my parents in Michigan. And on this third visit I was by myself for the weekend. I didn't have any plans other then to go and explore the gay life of the city.
(More, and a photo from that trip, after the jump!)
NYC Upcoming Events - And where did Autumn go?
When I tell friends back in the Midwest that my calendar is booked solid through January, they think I'm being hyperbolic or snobby. New Yorkers know that it's just simple truth. Parties, shows, art exhibits, fine dining...whatever your fascination, there's more than ever of it out there to distract you from the cold, gray city.
Here's a quick list of upcoming events I recommend, with more details after the jump.
OUTmusic Awards - Tuesday, Dec. 8
Justin Bond's Christmas Spells - Dec. 9 through 12
Raandesk Gallery of Art (ART2Gift) - Dec. 9, 10, 13, 15
The Meeting - Dec. 14
SWEAT - Dec. 18
On the 29th Anniversary of the Death of John Lennon
Posted by Father Tony:
A Baad Lamb photo of the Dakota from a Central Park perspective. Yoko Ono, who still resides there, and John Lennon were returning home when John was shot outside the building's entrance on 72nd Street.
Queer New York contributor Donnie sent me this message earlier today (The link is a beautiful article about how John fell in love with New York City):
A stone's throw from the Dakota is the Strawberry Fields Memorial in Central Park. A point of serious pilgrimage for many visitors to the city. After the jump are a photo of Bilerico's Jerame Davis and Bil Browning who listed it as a must-see during their brief visit last summer, and a video made two days ago by QNY contributor Baad Lamb of a young group performing music by John Lennon and The Beatles in the band shell of Central Park. I would guess that most, if not all, of these performers were not even born before Dec 8, 1980.
A Baad Lamb photo of the Dakota from a Central Park perspective. Yoko Ono, who still resides there, and John Lennon were returning home when John was shot outside the building's entrance on 72nd Street.
Queer New York contributor Donnie sent me this message earlier today (The link is a beautiful article about how John fell in love with New York City):
John was the first artist who contributed money to buy bullet proof vests for members of the NYPD. John was a progressive, peaceful man yet he knew evil when he saw it. You won't see any modern progressives donating monies to the NYPD or to our men and women in engaged in armed conflict....QNY Contributor Brooklyn Bill has this to say:
"Imagine" is one of the wisest and most beautiful songs ever written. I wish John Lennon were still alive to inspire the anti-war movement in New York and across the U.S. We desperately need more charismatic men and women of peace who can eloquently speak hopeful truth to violent power.
A stone's throw from the Dakota is the Strawberry Fields Memorial in Central Park. A point of serious pilgrimage for many visitors to the city. After the jump are a photo of Bilerico's Jerame Davis and Bil Browning who listed it as a must-see during their brief visit last summer, and a video made two days ago by QNY contributor Baad Lamb of a young group performing music by John Lennon and The Beatles in the band shell of Central Park. I would guess that most, if not all, of these performers were not even born before Dec 8, 1980.
Barista Boys And It's Good For The Prostate
Posted by Donnie:
Today the BBC reports that coffee is good for the prostate. Now now, Not in the stimulation sense, but it may help to lower the risk of prostate cancer and have some limited health benefits.
When I read about coffee, it's hard for me not to reminisce and fondly recall our beloved "Big Cup" in Chelsea. Hard to believe that it has now been closed for over four years. It was standard for us to say lets "meet me at the Big Cup". Aah, the eye candy, cute barista boys, guys in sweats coming from the gym, HX, Metro, Blade and Next magazines strewn all over the brig-a-brag furnishings. It was "the gay coffee joint". Alas, gentrification and rent increases forced its closure. Another nail in the coffin of the gay ghetto.
We still have some nice New York "gay friendly" places such as Ninth Street Espresso on 9th street in Alphabet City and Tompkins Square Park. More of a bakery, but if you can get a seat, Billy's Bakery has luscious cupcakes and good java. I'm sure you all have a favorite place, care to share?
Today the BBC reports that coffee is good for the prostate. Now now, Not in the stimulation sense, but it may help to lower the risk of prostate cancer and have some limited health benefits.
When I read about coffee, it's hard for me not to reminisce and fondly recall our beloved "Big Cup" in Chelsea. Hard to believe that it has now been closed for over four years. It was standard for us to say lets "meet me at the Big Cup". Aah, the eye candy, cute barista boys, guys in sweats coming from the gym, HX, Metro, Blade and Next magazines strewn all over the brig-a-brag furnishings. It was "the gay coffee joint". Alas, gentrification and rent increases forced its closure. Another nail in the coffin of the gay ghetto.
We still have some nice New York "gay friendly" places such as Ninth Street Espresso on 9th street in Alphabet City and Tompkins Square Park. More of a bakery, but if you can get a seat, Billy's Bakery has luscious cupcakes and good java. I'm sure you all have a favorite place, care to share?
Monday, December 7, 2009
Why I Love Central Park
Posted by Father Tony
Kids weaving through frisbee pros dodging skaters.
Young DJs pumping out vintage disco in the bandshell.
An eccentric middle-aged dervish whirls off his meds.
There is no place like it.
A kaleidoscope of free entertainment.
The best backyard I've ever had.
Kids weaving through frisbee pros dodging skaters.
Young DJs pumping out vintage disco in the bandshell.
An eccentric middle-aged dervish whirls off his meds.
There is no place like it.
A kaleidoscope of free entertainment.
The best backyard I've ever had.
Los Nutcrackers. Take The # 6 To "Da Bronx"
Posted by Donnie
My friend, Charles Rice Gonzalez, wrote the play "Los Nutcrackers", a marvelous love story with a gay Latino vibe. The gorgeous guys deliver a really gritty performance which may now be seen over at BADD , 841 Barretto Street, Bronx, New York (2nd floor).
Just hop on the #6 train about 4 stops out of Manhattan, get off at the Longwood Avenue stop and walk south about 3 blocks. My boyfriend Christian and I attended last year and had a wonderful time. It's an intimate theater and it's nice to mingle afterwards with the artists and share a libation with them. Have Fun!
My friend, Charles Rice Gonzalez, wrote the play "Los Nutcrackers", a marvelous love story with a gay Latino vibe. The gorgeous guys deliver a really gritty performance which may now be seen over at BADD , 841 Barretto Street, Bronx, New York (2nd floor). Just hop on the #6 train about 4 stops out of Manhattan, get off at the Longwood Avenue stop and walk south about 3 blocks. My boyfriend Christian and I attended last year and had a wonderful time. It's an intimate theater and it's nice to mingle afterwards with the artists and share a libation with them. Have Fun!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
The Holiday Craft Sale at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia
Posted by Brooklyn Bill
Until this year, the fair was open only to Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia employees. A friend of mine who works at MSLO told me about the fair last weekend. She and her co-workers got first dibs on Friday. She said that jewelry was the predominant offering but there were plenty of other neat items** to be had.
We arrived separately and met up inside the large exhibit space shortly after noon, when the fair began. M&J hadn't previously met. Mark is from North Dakota and rode downtown from the Upper West Side on his bike. Joyce is from Ohio and took a "little yellow thing" (Joyce-speak for a cab) from Brooklyn Heights. Both of them have lived in the city for many years, and one other thing they have in common (besides their longtime residency here and their friendship with me) is that they always make sure to check out the department store window displays around Christmastime. Joyce took her Mom to view them while her Mom was visiting from Kent for Thanksgiving. And Mark scoped out the windows at three stores—Macy's, Lord & Taylor, and Saks—after he left the fair before succumbing to the rain, cold, and crowds.
We arrived separately and met up inside the large exhibit space shortly after noon, when the fair began. M&J hadn't previously met. Mark is from North Dakota and rode downtown from the Upper West Side on his bike. Joyce is from Ohio and took a "little yellow thing" (Joyce-speak for a cab) from Brooklyn Heights. Both of them have lived in the city for many years, and one other thing they have in common (besides their longtime residency here and their friendship with me) is that they always make sure to check out the department store window displays around Christmastime. Joyce took her Mom to view them while her Mom was visiting from Kent for Thanksgiving. And Mark scoped out the windows at three stores—Macy's, Lord & Taylor, and Saks—after he left the fair before succumbing to the rain, cold, and crowds.
Chocolate Cake: Impending Doom
Posted by Beau RN
Next Saturday, my husband and I will be hosting ten friends for a dinner. As the dinner and cast of guests have developed, the meal has gone from distinctly Jewish (a beautiful brisket even though it's the first night of Hanukkah) to straight up Italian (Lasagna, lost family recipe). Inadvertantly, we've assembled seven single friends and and eighth who's husband can't attend. We assume to have put our Yenta in four-wheel drive.
So the quandry as these things go is what to serve for dessert.
So the quandry as these things go is what to serve for dessert.
House of Xtravaganza
Posted by Father Tony
At the November 20th House of Xtravaganza Ball at Manhattan's Irving Plaza, the boys werk the judges.
The winners are congratulated.
This performance was amazing. Don't miss his spectacular jump off the table near the end.
These house balls are queeressential New York.
More photos after the jump.
At the November 20th House of Xtravaganza Ball at Manhattan's Irving Plaza, the boys werk the judges.
The winners are congratulated.
This performance was amazing. Don't miss his spectacular jump off the table near the end.
These house balls are queeressential New York.
More photos after the jump.
Holiday Gifts for Central Park Zoo Animals
Posted by Brooklyn Bill
Every weekend this month before Christmas, some of the animals at the Central Park Zoo are getting special treats to celebrate the holidays. On NY1, Pat Kiernan reported this morning that polar bears Gus and Ida were given "whipped cream and trout." There's no mention of the bears' receiving dairy products on the Web page that shows when the animals are getting their treats this month; only peanut butter and frozen fish. Mmmm. Peanut butter and bears.
Every weekend this month before Christmas, some of the animals at the Central Park Zoo are getting special treats to celebrate the holidays. On NY1, Pat Kiernan reported this morning that polar bears Gus and Ida were given "whipped cream and trout." There's no mention of the bears' receiving dairy products on the Web page that shows when the animals are getting their treats this month; only peanut butter and frozen fish. Mmmm. Peanut butter and bears.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Breaking News: NOM and FBI Questioned about Possible Role in Fire at Home of New York Gay Activist Curmudgeon Blogger
Earlier today, firemen rushed to the Upper East Side Manhattan residence of prominent gay activist curmudgeon blogger Joe Jervis to battle smoke and flames threatening the building's occupants. Mr Jervis was not at home when the firemen arrived. Both his houseguest and beloved cat, Shelly, escaped uninjured.
It has also been reported that a woman dressed unseasonably in a pink maribou peignoir and described as resembling extreme homophobe bigot Maggie Gallaugher was extricated from the building's basement laundry room where her Prince Valiant hairdo had apparently become lodged in a window dryer vent during an attempt to escape the location of the fire's initiation. Neighbors reported that five FBI agents now being treated for smoke inhalation and the aforementioned woman had been holed up in the apartment directly above Mr. Jervis for two weeks playing Patsy Cline records, drilling holes and prowling about the building in attempts to spy on him.
It has also been reported that a woman dressed unseasonably in a pink maribou peignoir and described as resembling extreme homophobe bigot Maggie Gallaugher was extricated from the building's basement laundry room where her Prince Valiant hairdo had apparently become lodged in a window dryer vent during an attempt to escape the location of the fire's initiation. Neighbors reported that five FBI agents now being treated for smoke inhalation and the aforementioned woman had been holed up in the apartment directly above Mr. Jervis for two weeks playing Patsy Cline records, drilling holes and prowling about the building in attempts to spy on him.
Good Cop And Bad Cop Senators Adams and Monserrate.
Please allow me to introduce my self as the Rolling Stones sing in Sympathy for the devil. I'm really just a fan of Farmboyz Et. Al. The kind Father Tony asked me to contribute to his new venture and as a non practicing cafeteria Irish Catholic well.......I still can't say no to a man of the cloth.
I am a 25 year veteran of the NYPD currently serving in the Bronx. Unlike many I have spent nearly my entire career on the streets in the urban underclass sections of the city. I disfavor "desk jockey's" and firmly believe good Police can and do make a difference on the street. Ed Koch swore me into the Police Department he defines himself as i do " A Liberal With Sanity".
I attended school in New York and graduated from CUNY Law School in 1999. I have been published in several law enforcement magazines and have had several Op-Ed pieces published including in the New York Times.
Good Cop and Bad Cop: Senators Adams and Monserrate
Many many not be aware that two current N.Y. State Senators who are former colleagues of mine at the NYPD. They are Eric Adams and Hiram Monserrate.
The latter voted against legalizing gay marriage while the former supported the legislation. I worked with Adams and was in the PBA ( police Union ) with his current chief of staff.
I am a 25 year veteran of the NYPD currently serving in the Bronx. Unlike many I have spent nearly my entire career on the streets in the urban underclass sections of the city. I disfavor "desk jockey's" and firmly believe good Police can and do make a difference on the street. Ed Koch swore me into the Police Department he defines himself as i do " A Liberal With Sanity".
I attended school in New York and graduated from CUNY Law School in 1999. I have been published in several law enforcement magazines and have had several Op-Ed pieces published including in the New York Times.
Good Cop and Bad Cop: Senators Adams and Monserrate
Many many not be aware that two current N.Y. State Senators who are former colleagues of mine at the NYPD. They are Eric Adams and Hiram Monserrate.
The latter voted against legalizing gay marriage while the former supported the legislation. I worked with Adams and was in the PBA ( police Union ) with his current chief of staff.
The Manhattan Refutation
Posted by Father Tony
Here's a Facebook group worth joining.
The Progressive Christian Alliance describes itself as "an ecumenical group of Christians who stand in opposition to the myopic and bigoted statements found in the recent "Manhattan Declaration."
I've provided the text of the homophobic, bigoted and hateful Manhattan Declaration after the jump. It's good to know how these "Christians" really think. And if Manhattan had an actual voice, it would declare "I had no part in that declaration!".
Here's a Facebook group worth joining.
The Progressive Christian Alliance describes itself as "an ecumenical group of Christians who stand in opposition to the myopic and bigoted statements found in the recent "Manhattan Declaration."
I've provided the text of the homophobic, bigoted and hateful Manhattan Declaration after the jump. It's good to know how these "Christians" really think. And if Manhattan had an actual voice, it would declare "I had no part in that declaration!".
NYC Food Charter
Posted by Father Tony
I can sign this pledge because the objectives of the NYC Food Charter are not foreign to me, and because I worry about the way food impacts New Yorkers in lower income neighborhoods and communities of color.
Even on the Upper West Side, in my own neighborhood (Lincoln Center), I frequently pass the loading dock of the Food Emporium on Broadway & 68th. The homeless know the schedule and easily rummage through the dumpsters for the perfectly good food that has reached some expiration date or is slightly bruised. On a recent night, I was arrested by the sight of a tray of red and yellow peppers. Exactly what I was intending to purchase inside that store. I didn't care who saw me. I had to stop and examine this discarded produce.
I can sign this pledge because the objectives of the NYC Food Charter are not foreign to me, and because I worry about the way food impacts New Yorkers in lower income neighborhoods and communities of color.
Even on the Upper West Side, in my own neighborhood (Lincoln Center), I frequently pass the loading dock of the Food Emporium on Broadway & 68th. The homeless know the schedule and easily rummage through the dumpsters for the perfectly good food that has reached some expiration date or is slightly bruised. On a recent night, I was arrested by the sight of a tray of red and yellow peppers. Exactly what I was intending to purchase inside that store. I didn't care who saw me. I had to stop and examine this discarded produce.
A Hetero Lady of New York Sells It on EBAY
Posted by Father Tony
Got any 14th Amendment rights you are not planning to use?
The winning bid will be donated to the Point Foundation. Their New York office is at 1357 Broadway. As we cast about for better ways to bring about queer equality, we should not overlook the advantages of education.
Got any 14th Amendment rights you are not planning to use?
The winning bid will be donated to the Point Foundation. Their New York office is at 1357 Broadway. As we cast about for better ways to bring about queer equality, we should not overlook the advantages of education.
Point Foundation provides financial support, mentoring, leadership training and hope to meritorious students who are marginalized due to sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Loaded
Posted by Mondschein
This is at least the third time I've seen this story - two men, supposedly very different from each other, hooking up and then trying to take the time to get to know each other. The result is a series of miscommunications, competitions, disagreements, potential violence, all with a bit of nudity tossed in to keep the audiences' interest. The first two on my list are Together Alone and Two Boys in Bed on a Cold Winter's Night.
This time around, 47 year old Patrick (Kevin Spirtas) has invited adorable 24 year old Jude (Scott Kerns) to spend the night for the first time following several previous hookups. The short-lived nudity opens this one-act, followed quickly by a series of arguments in which each finds and repeatedly pushes the other's buttons on topics ranging from HIV and safe sex, to lesbians to gay marriage. Both Mr. Spirtas and Mr. Kerns find a nice moment or two when each is able to rise above their two dimensional characters, but it's a difficult task given the weak script by Elliot Ramon Potts.
Even with all the arguing between the two, Mr. Potts brings little enlightenment to the varying subjects. The dialog is frequently trite, despite the best efforts of the two handsome actors. Director Michael Unger attempts to keep things moving, but the poor transitions keep the flow bogged down.
Adam Koch's NYC apartment set manages well under Herrick Goldman's unremarkable lighting.
Sadly, there's little to recommend here beyond watching two handsome actors for 90 minutes.
A Fantastic Dinner at the James Beard House
Posted by Brooklyn Bill
Last night, my buddy Lou treated me to my first dinner at the James Beard House. It was an amazing experience, one I highly recommend to queer New Yorkers and out-of-town visitors.
Lou has been to many of these dinners over the years. He loves the meals but sometimes finds his fellow diners to be "pretentious, overdressed, and unfriendly."
I felt a little underdressed when I entered the home where James Beard lived until his death in 1985. Almost all of the men were wearing ties and jackets, and I had on my usual workday uniform of casual pants and a gaily patterned button-front shirt.
I signed in and passed through the kitchen, where that night's guest chef, Adam Savage of the Delray Beach Marriott in Delray Beach, Florida, was presiding. That's him on the right in the photo above.
In Miami, Some New York Artists Get Toasted. Literally.
Posted by Father Tony
My interview with New York artist El Celso, at his Art Burn yesterday in Miami. Details and stills later but I'm off to lunch with the Stonewall Library and Archive boys.
And yes, I actually got to meet Carolina!
My interview with New York artist El Celso, at his Art Burn yesterday in Miami. Details and stills later but I'm off to lunch with the Stonewall Library and Archive boys.
And yes, I actually got to meet Carolina!
Union Square Marriage Equality Rally
Posted by Christian H.
We had a sunny blue morning in NYC. At this time of year I make a special effort to enjoy sunlight at every opportunity. During the late Autumn and Winter months, I am outdoors in the sun for only 10 or 15 minutes on my way to work in the morning. The first year I worked in Midtown, another motivation for our tall glass skyscrapers became clear: without them, we 9 to 5 worker bees would forget there's a sun at all.
By the time I arrived at last night's marriage equality rally in Union Square, night had fallen and a chill was creeping into the air. Outerwear in NYC trend to blues, blacks, and very dark colors, making the crowd look homogeneous to my eye. Compared to last year's Prop 8 march, there were far fewer signs. The sound system was not effective at the rear of the crowd, and those who couldn't hear were making small talk among themselves, compounding the problem.
We had a sunny blue morning in NYC. At this time of year I make a special effort to enjoy sunlight at every opportunity. During the late Autumn and Winter months, I am outdoors in the sun for only 10 or 15 minutes on my way to work in the morning. The first year I worked in Midtown, another motivation for our tall glass skyscrapers became clear: without them, we 9 to 5 worker bees would forget there's a sun at all.By the time I arrived at last night's marriage equality rally in Union Square, night had fallen and a chill was creeping into the air. Outerwear in NYC trend to blues, blacks, and very dark colors, making the crowd look homogeneous to my eye. Compared to last year's Prop 8 march, there were far fewer signs. The sound system was not effective at the rear of the crowd, and those who couldn't hear were making small talk among themselves, compounding the problem.
Wendy Williams
Posted by Father Tony
I may have been the only New Yorker at Fashion Forward who didn't know who she was. There wasn't a queen of any sex who didn't immediately text her passage through the room or shriek her down the red carpet. Today she is the subject of this New York Times profile. I was very glad to read this because it verified what I suspected: she isn't just tits and hair. She is brains and breeding (A finishing school on Martha's Vineyard?!)
When she sat down directly across from me on the runway, the two guys next to me, downtown club cub Austin V. Allan and Theo Thompson, began to squirm uncontrollably before they broke down and crossed the runway on their knees to pay homage. I wonder if I should watch more TV.
I may have been the only New Yorker at Fashion Forward who didn't know who she was. There wasn't a queen of any sex who didn't immediately text her passage through the room or shriek her down the red carpet. Today she is the subject of this New York Times profile. I was very glad to read this because it verified what I suspected: she isn't just tits and hair. She is brains and breeding (A finishing school on Martha's Vineyard?!)
When she sat down directly across from me on the runway, the two guys next to me, downtown club cub Austin V. Allan and Theo Thompson, began to squirm uncontrollably before they broke down and crossed the runway on their knees to pay homage. I wonder if I should watch more TV.
Why I Love New York Tonight
Posted by Beau RN
I missed last night’s spontaneous rally at Times Square after the defeat of the Marriage Equality bill by the NY State Senate yesterday afternoon. When I heard more than a thousand people showed up to voice their outrage over the defeat my first thought was, “I’m not sure counting unaware tourists trying to get their theater groove on at TKTS necessarily constitutes a pro-gay marriage stance or organized outrage at the New York State Senate.” But whatever, I let it go.
I specifically wanted to make the NY Marriage Equality candlelight vigil tonight in Union Square because I missed last night‘s rally so I set out on the downtown 6 train from Harlem, anticipating wandering into a seething, undulating mass of righteously outraged LGBTer’s and their allies. My first tweet when I got up to the rally was, “Oh I see we’re on Gay Time” because ten minutes before the posted start of the event there were very few actual people other than those setting up around the platform and speaker. I started sweating and worrying that I missed a cancellation notice and end up milling about, tapping on my phone, trying not to look conspicuous until enough people pushed forward to make something of a small, angry mob.
My second tweet after the break....
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Equality NOW!
posted by riot
Above is me (in orange) and Richard (with the black beard) at last year's rally protesting the Mormon involvement in passing Prop 8.
I missed the rally last night in Times Square. I'm going to the rally tonight in Union Square, details for which are below. I wish I had time to make big signs, but I'm stuck at the office today. I'll be creatively using my laser printer!
The NYC response to Prop 8's passage was huge. I hope that our response to this affront in our own state will be larger by several orders of magnitude. Last night and tonight should be the first of many rallies and huge political action.
And perhaps most importantly, we need to get rid of the Democrats who betrayed us and elect Democrats who will support us for the next vote. A clear message must be sent: we will not be taken for granted.
Union Square Rally for Marriage Equality
New York, New York
December 3, 2009
6:00pm
North End of Union Square
17th Street & Broadway
Above is me (in orange) and Richard (with the black beard) at last year's rally protesting the Mormon involvement in passing Prop 8.I missed the rally last night in Times Square. I'm going to the rally tonight in Union Square, details for which are below. I wish I had time to make big signs, but I'm stuck at the office today. I'll be creatively using my laser printer!
The NYC response to Prop 8's passage was huge. I hope that our response to this affront in our own state will be larger by several orders of magnitude. Last night and tonight should be the first of many rallies and huge political action.
And perhaps most importantly, we need to get rid of the Democrats who betrayed us and elect Democrats who will support us for the next vote. A clear message must be sent: we will not be taken for granted.
Union Square Rally for Marriage Equality
New York, New York
December 3, 2009
6:00pm
North End of Union Square
17th Street & Broadway
Discount Theater Review
posted by David
This past weekend, as I sometimes do, I treated myself to a whirlwind attendance of theater productions. Previous commitments had kept me away from the boards for a few weeks so I had a bit of catch-up to do on several recent productions.
Logging into my trusty discount membership with Theatre Development Fund, I managed to catch three very different plays over Saturday and Sunday and I thought I would share my thoughts on each.
This past weekend, as I sometimes do, I treated myself to a whirlwind attendance of theater productions. Previous commitments had kept me away from the boards for a few weeks so I had a bit of catch-up to do on several recent productions.
Logging into my trusty discount membership with Theatre Development Fund, I managed to catch three very different plays over Saturday and Sunday and I thought I would share my thoughts on each.
Loaded: a Thumbs-Up Review
posted by Father Tony
I recently attended Loaded with Joe, Little David, ELeven and Wayne Hoffman. It's clever. It's thought-provoking, Sometimes cringe-inducing. I'm recommending it largely because the two characters presented are not at all far-fetched. They embody parts of almost every gay man who has ever crossed a street in New York City. (Did the author, Elliot Ramón Potts, go to a gay organ bank when assembling them?)
Is it possible to praise one half of a two-person play much more than the other, or would that be like eating the filling but ignoring the crust of a cherry pie? I ask this because the older character was much better written than the younger one. It's as if the younger one was just a foil who said a lot of "Oh so what you're saying is"s. He was like a machine that fires tennis balls at a pro who repeatedly zings them over the net. Funny how each of us came away with different positive opinions about the merits of Loaded, and I do think you ought to read Joe's review because he was particularly moved by some of the dialogue.
There is brief nudity. There could have been more.
Is it possible to praise one half of a two-person play much more than the other, or would that be like eating the filling but ignoring the crust of a cherry pie? I ask this because the older character was much better written than the younger one. It's as if the younger one was just a foil who said a lot of "Oh so what you're saying is"s. He was like a machine that fires tennis balls at a pro who repeatedly zings them over the net. Funny how each of us came away with different positive opinions about the merits of Loaded, and I do think you ought to read Joe's review because he was particularly moved by some of the dialogue.
There is brief nudity. There could have been more.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Marriage Equality Fails in New York
Today the New York Senate voted down gay marriage 38 to 24.
I think gay activists need to regroup and study what happened not only in New York but in California and Maine. It isn't simply a matter of more money and better ads. The entire battle needs to be reframed and recast. Losing may be enlightening.
I think gay activists need to regroup and study what happened not only in New York but in California and Maine. It isn't simply a matter of more money and better ads. The entire battle needs to be reframed and recast. Losing may be enlightening.
Turn a Roll Down Gate into a Thing of Beauty
The NY Times invites its readers to spruce up these two roll down metal gates. Twenty minutes later I sent them these two "afters" to their two "befores":
Update: Here are some of the submissions highlighted by the NYT.
Update: Here are some of the submissions highlighted by the NYT.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Don't Waste Your WAD (World AIDS Day)
There are 33.4 million people living with HIV worldwide.
There were 2.7 million new cases in 2008.
I would encourage anyone in New York to accept dinner at Dallas BBQ on Wednesday, December 2nd, 6-8PM, 8th Ave & W23rd St in Chelsea. Learn about possible HIV prevention options. And share what you learn because vigilance is not private.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
A Queer New York Review: It's Complicated
Posted by Beau RN
(Meryl Streep from "It's Complicated" by Universal)
"It's Complicated" is the new film from Nancy Meyers staring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, Steve Martin, and then a bunch of other people, most notably, John Krasinsky (from 'The Office' fame). As the Four Word Film Review put it, "Streep's sex with ex" though I'd also tip my hat to "More dick Jane fun" (because Streep's character's name is 'Jane', you see.) Essentially Jane is taking her sweet old time to get over her divorce from Baldwin's cheating, puffy lothario ten years earlier. Just when she's ready to move on, thematically represented by the building of a kitchen and bedroom she's dreamed about but put off for the last ten years, using Steve Martin's architect for the work, she has a drunken bedding of Alec in his swank NYC penthouse hotel room. Hilarity and pathos mush this dog-led sled forward for the next hour and a half.
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