GLOBAL COCKTAILS

While perusing The Guardian today, I came across a video of the photographer Harold Chapman recalling his time at the Beat Hotel in Paris, and talking about a photograph he took of Allen Ginsberg and Peter Orlovsky. In the video he describes the couple as the "perfect combination, a pessimist and an optimist, for a permanent relationship."

Take a look at the video after the jump.

Continue reading "Allen Ginsberg and Peter Orlovsky: The Perfect..." »

One of our all time favorite actresses is celebrating her birthday today. Rosie Perez is someone we always look forward to seeing, whether it's on TV, in the theatre, or in movies. She was nominated for an Academy Award for her Performance in Fearless and has received numerous awards and nominations for her work as an actress, dancer, choreographer, and director. Add to this her commitment to human rights, and you'll know why we love her so much.

Cheers Rosie!

Video highlights after the jump.

Continue reading "Happy Birthday Rosie Perez!" »

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch yesterday causing widespread damage.

For a comprehensive report and photos of the earthquake in Christchurch click here

This just in from the Courage Campaign:

Moments ago, Federal District Court Judge Vaughn Walker ruled that the temporary stay of his ruling that California's Proposition 8 is unconstitutional will be lifted, effective August 18th. Today's order means that in less than one week, gay and lesbian couples can once again get married in California.

More than 18,000 California gay and lesbian couples were married prior to the passage of Proposition 8 in November of 2008.

In response to today's ruling, Courage Campaign Founder and Chairman Rick Jacobs issued the following statement:

"Today's ruling means that in less than one week, equality under the law will be restored for millions of loving families across California. Lifting the stay is ultimately consistent with both legal precedent and the findings in this case.

Specifically, that every American has a civil right to marriage, and that by depriving millions of families this right, Proposition 8 is unconstitutional. Judge Walker's ruling affirms that the purpose of our judicial system is to protect our constitutional rights, not to take away those rights.

All Americans agree that weddings matter and marriage is the foundation of strong families. Families and the institution of marriage itself can only be strengthened by the inclusion of more committed couples bound by unconditional love and enduring partnership."

One of greatest choreographers and directors on Broadway and in Hollywood was Michael Kidd. During his long and fascinating career he won five Tony Awards for choreography, and an honorary Academy Award in 1996 "in recognition of his services to the art of dance in the art of the screen".

For a Michael Kidd bio and more click here, or check out this article from The Telegraph

Video highlights after the jump

Continue reading "Happy Birthday Michael Kidd!" »

Dame Helen Mirren is proof positive that being a free spirit and having a positive attitude is so sexy!

Born in England in 1945, Mirren made a name for herself at the Royal Shakespeare Company before starring in one of our all time favorite TV shows, Prime Suspect.

In addition to her numerous Baftas, Golden Globes, and Emmys, see won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Queen Elisabeth II in The Queen (2006).

For a complete bio, photos, videos, and more, visit The Helen Mirren Appreciation Society

Some video highlights of our Birthday Girl after the jump.

Continue reading "Happy Birthday Helen Mirren!" »

More than 100,000 fans are expected to attend this year's Comic Con which opened yesterday in San Diego.

This annual convention of Super Heros and Comic Geniuses is always a crowd pleaser. For the latest news, videos and more click here.

Today, Argentina became the first country in South America to legalize same-sex marriage in an historic vote by the government. The law was passed in a 33-27 vote after 15 hours of debate. Same-sex couples will now have the same rights as heterosexuals, including the right to adopt children.

Argentina joins Belgium, Canada, Iceland, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and Sweden in legalizing same-sex marriage.

Congratulations to the people of Argentina!

Gigi Kracht has done it again. Art In The Park V at the Baur au Lac in Zurich brings together some of Pop Arts' great visionaries in a celebration of a whimsical world where people celebrate their inner child. Now through August 1, visitors can stroll the grounds and view these one of a kind works by Fernando Botero, Tony Cragg, Ronnie Cutrone, Robert Indiana, Jani Leinonen, Mel Ramos, Rotraut, Nina Saunders, and Richard Woods. Afterwards, enjoy a martini on the terrasse as the sun sets and "magic hour" illuminates the art with its golden glow.

To discover more about Zurich and the Baur au Lac click here.

View Additional Art After the Jump

Continue reading "Zurich - Art In The Park V" »

It is so important that people everywhere learn to appreciate and protect our planet's wildlife.

Here's is a wonderful wildlife slide show from the Guardian that is sure to inspire.