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Posted by Danielle Berrin
Call her "Esther" or Madonna and still, the high priestess of Jewish mysticism is wading in troubled waters.
This morning, the Malawian government rejected Madonna's petition to adopt a second Malawi-born child. The ruling judge said he felt the 4-year-old child, Chifundo "Mercy" James, was being well taken care of in a Malawian orphanage where she was receiving an education and lived near her relatives.
Seriously? An ORPHANAGE better than the life Madonna could provide?
Not so fast. It looks like there may be another reason why the Malawian government is incensed at the Material Girl, and perhaps, used a routine adoption as an opportunity for revenge.
Earlier this week FOX News reported that millions of dollars from Madonna's 2008 "Raising Malawi" fundraiser had vanished:
Before Madonna 'adopts' another child from Malawi, maybe someone should ask her where the money went from her big star studded 2008 fundraiser for that country. We tried: this column has tried to ascertain from The Gucci Foundation and from Madonna's Kabbalah-backed Raising Malawi, where the estimated $3.7 million has gone from the February 6, 2008 extravaganza. So far: No answers.
The 2008 event, co-sponsored by The Gucci Foundation and UNICEF was a lavish New York City affair. Many of Madonna's A-list friends were there including fellow Kabbalists Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore, as well as offbeat religionists Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes.
Celebrities paid $2,500 to $10,000 each to dine on grappa-cured salmon, wild striped bass, tart of goat cheese, foraged mushrooms, truffled mashed potatoes and sticky toffee pudding with creme fraiche…
Tom Cruise bid $100,000 for a sports package that included the privilege of hanging out at Yankee Stadium with Alex Rodriguez and a private hour playing soccer with David Beckham, but lost out to a bidder who ponied up $350,000.
"It was an extraordinary evening. The whole evening was quite moving," Cruise told The Associated Press, accompanied by his wife, Katie Holmes, who agreed. Cruise called the United Nations "an absolute necessity" because of the staff who dedicate their lives to building peace.
A trip to Paris with a tour of a vineyard and lunch with Francois-Henri Pinault and Salma Hayek went for $120,000. The priciest auction item was a $600,000 winning bid to tour with Madonna and take a dance class with her and Gwyneth Paltrow.
The party was clearly a success, but the benefit part was not. Perhaps the Malawian government doesn't trust Madonna. They've probably been wondering why it has taken over a year to account for all that auction money – and now they're pissed because it's still missing.
And then there's the highfalutin Kabbalah Centre, who is equally responsible. Raising Malawi was co-created by Madonna and Michael Berg, the spiritual guru of The Kabbalah Centre in Los Angeles and is described as the organization's official charitable foundation.
Yet according to the FOX News report, there was trouble at the get-go.
The fundraiser had some problems, however. Even though Raising Malawi had been in business for two years, it was still not approved as a sanctioned non-profit at the time. Instead, Gucci formed its own Foundation — known as a 501 c3 — to collect the money. They brought UNICEF on board to give the event a feeling of legitimacy. But in the end, the efforts expended were for Raising Malawi, an organization founded by the Kabbalah Center of Los Angeles. Raising Malawi teaches the Kabbalah curriculum, called Spirituality for Kids, to Malawi orphans.
Now, fourteen months after the fundraiser, there's no accounting for the money that came in. At the time, Gucci claimed that they'd underwritten the entire event, that $3.7 million had been raised and that it had been split between Raising Malawi and UNICEF.
But since then, the Gucci Foundation has still not filed a Form 990 tax statement, and neither has Raising Malawi. Calls to Gucci haven't provided any information, and calls and emails to Raising Malawi haven't been returned.
In any case, the Kabbalah Centre should be able to answer where the $3.7 million went. But surprise, surprise – they're not talking either.
Two phone calls I made to The Kabbalah Centre were misdirected. The person with whom I was told to speak had no voicemail. I then called Philippe van den Bossche, the L.A.-based executive director of "Raising Malawi" and was told he is currently traveling. So I emailed Mr. van den Bossche along with the foundation's public relations contact, and so far…not a word.
Where the money went and why no one is talking is a bit of a mystery. Or really bad PR. Is it mere coincidence that in the same week this report leaked, Madonna's Malawi adoption was rejected? She didn't have any trouble a few years ago when she adopted David Banda. In fact, the courts then waived the residency requirement they are now insisting she comply with.
It seems the government feels Madonna's good intentions with the African country are dubious at best and careless at worst. For her part, Madonna promises to appeal their decision.
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April 2, 2009 | 12:15 pm
Posted by Danielle Berrin
Ever wonder how Scarlett Johansson, a beautiful, but unremarkable talent, became the perfect post-millennial movie star?
Her film career is only partly responsible. While her turn in "Lost in Translation"—the Sofia Coppola film that made her—was Johansson's finest moment on screen, her qualities as an actress haven't advanced much in the 16 films she's made since then. She has, however, established a brand playing glamorous roles—the queen, the temptress, the muse—but in mostly dull films like "The Island," "The Prestige," and "The Other Boleyn Girl." With only a smattering of respectable fare, and a savvy partnership with Woody Allen, Johansson has parlayed her film brand into commercial iconography.
And she chose well: There was a music video with Bob Dylan, and another with Justin Timberlake; TV commercials for Gap, Calvin Klein and L'oreal; and really sexy print ads for Louis Vuitton, Dolce and Gabbana and Estee Lauder. In each of those, she cast herself as her preferred version of starlet and the images are irresistible. The creation of her own music album solidified her status as a fully fleshed out character; Johansson wisely realized a chanteuse is more powerful than a silent type.
And now her latest role—a champagne spurting goddess for Moet & Chandon—will serve her better than any Oscar. Because bankability is everything in Hollywood and in this, Johansson is not scarlet, she's golden.
March 26, 2009 | 10:15 pm
Posted by Danielle Berrin
My old friend Brett Ratner is in the news yet again.
Only this time, it's not as the "billion-dollar director" or "Hollywood playboy" we've come to know so well; it's for something entirely different, something very un-Ratner like.
Book publishing.
Which is a surprising choice for the rabble-rouser, because, for one who notoriously revels in notoriety, book publishing is about as controversial as vanilla ice cream. So we're left to wonder: Is Hollywood's most controversial young talent becoming a culture preservationist?
If you read my October 2008 profile of him, you'll discover that's exactly the kind of thing Ratner would do. Because as much as he is the "Popcorn King," revered for his kind of lowbrow, high-grossing adventure flicks, and at the same time, vilified as the industry's most shameless under-40 lothario, Ratner is every bit the culture cognescenti who would fund a coffee table book that he would buy himself.
As I remember, his dazzling collection of art books immediately caught my attention when I visited his home last summer:
He points out his book collection on the other side of the bookshelf, noting the values.
"These are all photographs of people having sex in parks," Ratner announces, poring over his collection of art books. He picks out a limited-edition volume by Ed Ruscha, which he values at $5,000.
"This is like $100,000 in books right here," he says, sweeping his arm across the bookcase.
Ratner's taste in art and photography is undeniably highbrow. His shelves teem with examples: Leni Riefenstahl's "1936," Alessandro Bertolotti's "Book of Nudes," Fellini's "Mirror of Venus," Picasso, architect Jean Prouvé, French photographer Guy Bourdin. Andy Warhol's General Mao portrait dangles in various iterations throughout the house. (Asked why he chose the Mao, he exclaims, "It's Andy Warhol! The greatest artist who ever lived.") Splayed across his bed is a collection of Helmut Newton photographs, a recent gift from the artist's widow.
Ratner's friend, L.A. Times columnist Patrick Goldstein (whom Ratner was mad at after Goldstein wrote about my profile) reported earlier today about the director's latest endeavor—aptly titled, "Rat Press." The venture is not entirely new. In 2003, Ratner published "Hillhaven Lodge: The Photo Booth Pictures," a collection of celebrity picture-strips taken in his private booth during parties. The book reads like a who's who of young Hollywood, from Leonardo DiCaprio to Justin Timberlake to Penelope Cruz—and for political parity, Chelsea Clinton. And last year, Ratner published a collection of actor Scott Caan's photography.
He's just launched a new series of film books through his Rat Press imprint, including a James Toback memoir about his friendship with NFL running back turned actor Jim Brown, as well as two interview books from longtime Playboy Q&A king Lawrence Grobel—a collection of interviews with producer Robert Evans and an updated account of Grobel's fascinating 1978 interviews with Marlon Brando.
"If I wasn't a publisher, I'd still be handing out copies to my friends anyway," Ratner told me the other day. "I gave a copy of the Toback book to the Hughes brothers, because they're really interested in Jim Brown. I've given copies of the Brando book to Warren Beatty and Jeff Berg. To me, these are stories from some of the great characters who helped me understand the movie business. The whole idea is to have a series of books that makes a part of Hollywood history available to everyone."
It's no coincidence that the books are all about Hollywood characters who were in their prime during the 1960s and early 1970s. "I grew up in that period, which for me was the greatest time for creativity in the film business," said Ratner. "But what all these guys have in common is that they're great storytellers. When you read about Toback living with Jim Brown for two years, you feel like you're right there, getting to see the parties and the orgies. These guys all had a great time, not just in their social lives, but they had a great time making movies."
Goldstein seems quite taken with the Brando book, but you'll have to read his blog for that bit.
There's no question Ratner loves movies—making them, watching them, and now, cataloging them for posterity. But Ratner also loves himself, and this move signifies his foray into mini-moguldom.
March 25, 2009 | 11:13 pm
Posted by Danielle Berrin
Jews in Hollywood have long been changing their names to sound less…well, Jewish. Betty Joan Perske became Lauren Bacall; Isadore Demsky became Kirk Douglas; and Allen Konigsberg became Woody Allen—the list is quite long. For better or worse, the trend reflects that hiding identity or ethnicity makes stardom more plausible. And at the very least, it might attract more work.
So what happens when an actress with a plainly Jewish name doesn't tweak her title?
Tovah Feldshuh, who currently stars on Broadway as a Polish Catholic in a Holocaust play, told Playbill her name keeps the Jewish roles coming. It's with characters that lack an explicit ethnicity that she is sometimes overlooked.
She had this to say to Playbill.com:
Playbill.com: Many of your theatre projects deal with Jewish subject matter and feature Jewish characters. How important is that to you that your projects have that aspect?
Tovah Feldshuh: I'm interested in doing good projects. But I think, because people have busy lives, shorthand is a useful tool for everybody. Shakespeare says, "What's in a name?" I say, "Yes, but you must put the effort forth." It is much easier for me to be handed, without audition, the mini-series "Holocaust," or Golda's Balcony, than for me to be handed Love Letters, which I had trouble getting an audition for in New York, I'm sad to say. And I'm sad for the production, because how many other capable performers were passed over because the name didn't sound right?
Playbill.com: So you're saying your resume has as much to do with serendipity and other people's perceptions than it does with your personal convictions about the kind of projects you want to do.
TF: My name was perceived, at first, when I was completely unknown — people wondered if I was foreign or from another country. I believe I've been fortunate enough to be offered projects that sometimes have to do with Jewish ethnicity and history that are the cream of the cream of those projects. The top. You don't see me showing up for those I don't consider of the highest rank. Let's be frank here. I absolutely love being an American, and I'm proud to be an American Jew. I have no bones about it. But as an artist, you want to be able to play everything.
A friend of mine once wrote that there is something unbelievably transcendent about an artist who performs in their own accent (of course she has a very charming English one). And I thought, yes! A person who performs in their own skin is more real and raw than in any other role. I think of Tovah Feldshuh, who completely personified New York-Jewish mother perfection in one of my all time favorite films, "A Walk on the Moon." And my passion for it has nothing to do with the scene where Diane Lane and Viggo Mortenson make love while submerged beneath a waterfall—with Joni Mitchell's "Cactus Tree" playing in the background. Nothing to do with that at all.
March 25, 2009 | 4:16 pm
Posted by Danielle Berrin
I simply don't care that Julia Roberts isn't Jewish—every woman should see this. I was ELATED to read this fantastic, life affirming, undermining of all horrible things about our beauty culture statement in the New York Times and I had to share. In A.O. Scott's review of her new film, "Duplicity," he writes, "Ms. Roberts has almost entirely left behind the coltish, America's-sweetheart mannerisms, except when she uses them strategically, to disarm or confuse." First thought: How nice, movie actresses, once coquettish and shy, can finally grow up. But here's where it gets fantastic: "Curvier than she used to be and with a touch of weariness around her eyes and impatience in her voice, she is, at 41, u[n]mistakably in her prime." YIPPEE! Growing up also means we can AGE. And eat carbs and be curvy! And still be beautiful. Our best selves. And I just want to applaud this promising new appraisal because pretty soon, no one will be able to afford botox anyway.
March 25, 2009 | 4:00 am
Posted by Danielle Berrin
The sexy starlet of "Slumdog Millionaire" will kick start her newfound film career in Israel. In the month since "Slumdog" swept the 2009 Oscars with eight wins, Pinto has become Hollywood's hot, new commodity. Woody Allen snagged her for his next film, an untitled project set in London co-starring Nicole Kidman, Josh Brolin, Anthony Hopkins and Naomi Watts. And earlier today, it was announced that Pinto is in Israel to film "Miral," about Palestinian and Israeli women, written and directed by Julian Schnabel. Props to Pinto for her business savvy—even as a newbie, her choices suggest ambition for a serious acting career.
Read more from Haaretz:
Freida Pinto, the female lead in the Oscar-winning "Slumdog Millionaire," is in Israel to prepare for shooting a new film by Julian Schnabel, which will be entirely filmed here. French cinematographer Eric Gautier ("The Motorcycle Diaries," "Hearts") will be behind the camera. Shooting on "Miral" is scheduled to start next month, immediately after Pesach. The screenplay was adapted by Schnabel ("The Diving Bell and the Butterfly") from a book by Palestinian-Italian writer Rula Jebreal, who collaborated on the script. It focuses on the interwoven lives of a few Israeli and Palestinian women, from the early years of the state through the early 1990s.
Pinto, 24, began her career as a model in Mumbai, switching to film acting only after British director Danny Boyle discovered her at an audition for "Slumdog Millionaire."
...In "Miral," Pinto will be sharing the screen with female lead Hiam Abbass ("Lemon Tree"), a Palestinian actress who lives in France.
March 23, 2009 | 9:35 pm
Posted by Danielle Berrin
I suppose it's fair to think that this town's frequent film panel discussions are just a way to fill theaters on off-nights. And non-cinephiles may find them utterly boring. (Why is it, exactly, that an audience will sit through a two-hour movie, but dash for the exit before a fifteen-minute Q-and-A with the director?) Remember, this is Hollywood—and the exciting things tend to happen after the curtain goes down. In Hollywood, an ordinary panel discussion is extraordinary because the people who made the film are sitting in the audience. Here, an otherwise routine discussion can result in a lead actor confronting the film's cinematographer and declaiming against his having received an Oscar.
Such was the case at a recent screening of the Woody Guthrie biopic "Bound for Glory" at The Aero Theatre in Santa Monica (the Westside wing of the American Cinemateque), when two of the film's collaborators clashed in public. Directed by maverick filmmaker Hal Ashby, the film stars David Carradine, who was present at the Mar. 18 screening along with the film's cinematographer, a Chicago-born Jew, Haskell Wexler. Carradine is a quirky veteran thesp with a prolific B-career, most widely seen in Quentin Tarantino's "Kill Bill." Wexler is considered one of the greatest living cinematographers in film history with two Oscars to prove it; he won his first in 1966 for his work on "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" and his second, a decade later, for "Bound for Glory."
Unfortunately, I missed the juicy scene that transpired, but Chris Willman (former Entertainment Weekly music critic) took all the cliff notes you'll need.
In light of a recent cover story I wrote on SAG President Alan Rosenberg, I was interested to read that the subject of unionism led to one of the most contentious moments of the evening. (More on this, later)
In any case, this fascinating film feud might convince you that the next time you see a panel discussion scheduled, you should go.
Willman's play-by-play from the Huff Post:
Not since I saw Bill Irwin and Kathleen Turner go at each other in an excellent production of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? a couple of years ago have I experienced a night of live theater quite as riveting as the three-way cage match between David Carradine, Haskell Wexler, and the audience that transpired at an L.A. repertory filmhouse after a screening the other night. If there's anything that wouldn't seem to scream "fireworks!," it'd be a panel discussion about the 1976 Woody Guthrie biopic Bound for Glory, yet it's just this innocuous-sounding an event, held at the American Cinematheque in Santa Monica the other night, that may go down in Hollywood feud lore. By popular request from film buffs who are kicking themselves they weren't there, I'm providing a blow-by-blow of just what a nerve-wracking, weird and wonderful night out at the fights this was. Beware: This train is bound for bedlam—this train!
There's a moment of calm. The presumptive moderator is silent, either because he's enjoying this too much to stop it or has mentally gone to a better place. So an audience member takes it upon himself to shout out a question about cinematography. Who knew this would be a more dangerous subject than unions? Wexler talks about color desaturation ("You'll notice the movie gets more colorful when we get to California") and gives some very technical details. Carradine breaks in and starts talking about crane shots. Wexler, annoyed, goes back to the specs. And this is the point at which Carradine really goes off the rails, albeit it in a more subdued, passive-aggressive kind of way. He brings out a line—which he'll repeats at least two more times—about how Wexler "got an Academy Award for ruining my movie." You can feel the audience holding its collective breath as Carradine goes on to say that the film "looks like it was shot through a glass of milk." When he explains what he wished the look of the film had been—which is grittier—again, it's a lucid point, which some critics might even agree with. But the insulting way he's making it is either tone-deaf or just evil.Then he tells the story of how Ashby, the director, hated the look of the film, too, and had frequently expressed the wish that he could fire Wexler. Gasps go up. Carradine then says he talked Ashby out of firing Wexler, "because if you fire somebody, they just go out in the parking lot and steal your hubcaps." I'm pretty sure that's a metaphor, but the audience doesn't know what to do with this image other than to nervously titter. There will be a lot more of that—oh, yes, there will.
Naturally, Wexler is enraged by Carradine's story. Speaking at some length for the first time, he retorts: "I didn't know that I was going to be confronted with a story which I don't think is necessarily a public story. But since it is public, I have to say something. Hal Ashby sent somebody to fire me, and he said 'You're fired,' okay? And then after I heard that and got the message, I went to Hal and I said 'Hal, just take a minute and STOP SNIFFING THAT STUFF UP YOUR NOSE!' And if David will tell me there wasn't heavy duty doping on that film, and that that wasn't the comradeship he was talking about…" He lets that thought trail off, but adds: "When I showed up the next day, I went to work, and I was the UNFIRED director of photography. Now, that's the goddamned truth!"
Carradine (drolly): "Okay. I don't think that changes my story at all. Except that Haskell is a little down on people who snort cocaine." That gets a good, nervous audience laugh. He goes on to tell a story about visiting Ashby's mammoth trailer, and picking up a copy of the L.A. Times, which he hadn't seen during many weeks of location shooting. "Underneath it there were about six lines of cocaine… Hal was looking at me and I said 'Hal, do you do a lot of this stuff?' And he said 'As much as I can get.' And I said 'I'll talk to you later,' and I left the trailer. Because it's not my thing. And yes, Hal was a great user of cocaine. It does not change the fact that he was… " Carradine goes for the superlatives. "Quentin Tarantino doesn't beat Hal Ashby, and he's one of my favorite directors. Quentin is incredible. And he's a big cocaine freak, too!" Okay, you want to talk about nervous laughter… (Just for the record, I'm not sure you can tell with 100% certainty from the tape whether Carradine says the present-tense "He's a…." or, possibly, the past-tense "He was a…") The actor continues: "But Hal was a fucking genius. I don't like anybody to put him down and say the drugs got in the way or anything else, because they didn't get in the way. They got in the way of him living longer, but they did not get in the way of his movies. There is not one movie he made that you cannot say it's one of the best fucking movies that has ever been made…"
Patrick Goldstein gives the showdown more coverage:
It's still early, but it's pretty safe to say that the award for the "Craziest Post-Screening Panel Discussion of the Year" has to go to David Carradine and Haskell Wexler, who got to show everyone who stayed after an American Cinematheque screening of Hal Ashby's "Bound for Glory" just what it must've been like to have lived through the '60s.
It's not exactly a news flash that Carradine, best known for his many small and big screen roles ("Kung Fu," "Kill Bill," etc.) is a tad, shall we say ...eccentric—he's up to, at last count, his fifth wife. But according to this marvelous blow-by-blow account from ex-Entertainment Weekly writer Chris Willman (posted on Hollywood Elsewhere, which offers a briefer account here), Carradine really went over the top in what was supposed to be one of those evenings devoted to affectionate reminiscences about working on a movie classic, a film that earned Wexler an Oscar for best cinematography.
At first, Carradine was just odd, "in a had-too-many-highballs-before-dinner kind of way," as Willman put it. But when the subject of unions came up, he went completely gonzo, saying unions no longer served the same purpose they used to, which prompted a ferocious shouting match with a woman in the back of the audience. With all hell breaking loose, Cinematheque publicist Margot Gerber, who was in the front row, stood up and demanded that the woman be tossed out. Carradine continued his rant, saying he's had to cut back on buying groceries for his family because of the economy and the SAG labor tumult, adding for emphasis: "I AM NOT A RICH PERSON!" When someone in the crowd suggested that he let the lady heckler have the mike, Carradine half-heartedly tossed the mike into the audience, which instead of landing safely in the aisle—wouldn't you just know it—bonked Gerber right on the head.That turned out to be just a prelude for a really contentious skirmish between Carradine and Wexler, a world-class cinematographer who doesn't suffer fools lightly, especially when they appear to be making light of his achievements. When Carradine complained that "Bound for Glory" "looks like it was shot through a glass of milk," claimed that Ashby tried to fire Wexler and joked that Wexler "got an Academy Award for ruining my movie," all hell broke loose.
March 23, 2009 | 2:48 pm
Posted by Danielle Berrin
While the rest of the country has endured job losses and pay cuts, Hollywood box office has soared.
Many in the industry will proudly tell you, "The movie business is recession-proof." And if you measured by box office alone, that might be true.
But Hollywood is cutting corners like everybody else.
For one, media conglomerate ownership of the big studios has meant countless layoffs in recent months—if Sony electronics sales are down, someone over at Sony Pictures could get the boot. The Wall Street hedge funds that once watered the Hollywood well with hundreds-of-millions in financing have all but dried up. And once flush studios such as Steven Spielberg's DreamWorks are teetering on the brink (even after he was swindled by Bernie Madoff, Mr. Spielberg forked over as much as $13 million to keep DreamWorks afloat). So while Hollywood-in-recession appears unchanged—we're still going to the movies, and every agent in town still drives a Mercedes Benz—there is quiet talk of Obama-style regime change among the industry's elite. Or at the very least, some serious restructuring in the way Hollywood does business.
After riding two decades of almost nonstop growth from the cable and video revolutions, a new generation of Hollywood power players is finally being forced to test its mettle.
These executives — consummate insiders who enlisted when young and worked their way up — now find themselves pushing 50 just as some brutal problems are pushing back: a collapse in DVD sales, a credit crisis that has curtailed financing for new movies, a group of corporate owners determined to pull more profits from studios to compensate for hard-hit publishing and broadcast television divisions.
"These folks were born from a place where they knew no failure — all they could ever see was up, both for the business and their careers," said Peter Guber, a former chairman of Sony Pictures who is now a producer and industry elder statesman. "Now they must confront the unsettling truth that failure is close at hand and that it's on their backs to make sure that doesn't happen."
Inevitably, the sudden shift has set off soul-searching among the loose network of allies and adversaries who must rewire the industry in the short span before a next Hollywoodgeneration comes along to replace them. They are tightening belts, lowering expectations and becoming occasionally more cutthroat, but also grappling with some unusually philosophic thoughts about a business for which they now have to fight.
"People are living in fear, and sometimes it manifests itself in bad behavior," said Mr. Shmuger, 50, who started in the business during college as a freelance copywriter for movie posters, and who spoke recently of the general climate, not of a specific incident."Darwinian" is one word Patrick Whitesell, a partner at the Endeavor talent agency, uses to describe the current landscape, while Chris Silbermann, president of International Creative Management, calls it "disorganized." Both agreed that people who were formerly able to succeed by clinging to mediocrity suddenly find themselves without cover.
"Everybody has to dig deeper than they ever have," said Mr. Whitesell, who came up in television and now represents such stars as Christian Bale and Shia LaBeouf. "That means more creative deal-making, more complete understanding of the economics of the industry, more hard-edged business decisions."
Mr. Silbermann said: "The only way to survive is to get beyond the knee-jerk resistance to change. What's scary is that a lot of people in the movie business aren't admitting that to themselves yet."
My favorite part of the story is when the Times notes how many hotshots refused to talk to them. I'm continually baffled by the fact that people in Hollywood are press shy. I really hope my editors see this so they know I'm not making it up when I say, "Nobody will talk to me!"
A number of executives and agents declined to be interviewed for this article, citing concerns about competitors or corporate overseers. Among those who preferred not to speak were Richard Lovett, 48, and Bryan Lourd, 49, both of whom are managing partners at the Creative Artists Agency; Rob Moore, 46, the vice chairman of the Viacom-owned Paramount under Brad Grey, who turns 52 this year; and Jeffrey Robinov, the 50-year-old president of the Warner Brothers Pictures Group, which is owned by Time Warner.
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Starts at a fun corner that requires an interesting high foot that will make you get into a fantastic layback that you'll stay in for the rest of this climb. make some fun moves until you mantle the ledge at the half-way point then protect high off the ledge and continue up the upper layback (crux) to the easy topout. Matthew Fienup: Truly classic laybacking and stemming at an accessible grade. Every bit as good as it looks.
I use some med nuts, 2 #2BD camalots, and some mid range cams for pro. I think you could use all small stuff but with the #2s it makes protecting ledge fall a breeze.
For help locating the start of the route, click here
A super fun climb that's easy to protect. Great for your first time leading, a 50m rope is all you need to reach the ground. The view of the ocean is priceless.
Rock climbs get harder, and they get longer, but move for move, they don't get much better. Absolutely perfect stone, pleasant and interesting moves, great pro, a fantastic setting, and sustained at the grade. A flawless pitch of climbing. Climb this route!
Sweet route, crux is the first few moves, everything else is cruiser. If it were only longer!
Don't underestimate the first 20 feet--it's a little awkward and strenuous. Please take the time to protect the start well. After that, it's just cruising wonderfulness.
I believe the FA of this wonderful climb goes to Jerry Cinnamon...

subset: commoncrawl


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Hunt faces Leveson Inquiry grilling
2:55am Sunday 27th May 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013
Beleaguered Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt is to appear before the Leveson Inquiry this week in one of its most high-profile hearings so far.
Mr Hunt will face a grilling on Thursday over his office's links with Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation during its bid to take over the satellite broadcaster BSkyB.
He will be challenged over whether his public expressions of support for the bid were compatible with the quasi-judicial role he was given by Prime Minister David Cameron.
There was unconfirmed speculation this weekend that Mr Cameron himself is due to appear two weeks later, on Thursday June 14.
Also giving evidence in the next few days will be Business Secretary Vince Cable, who was stripped of the role of deciding whether the bid could proceed last December after he was secretly recorded saying he had "declared war" on Mr Murdoch.
Former prime minister Tony Blair will face questions on Monday, when he is likely to be asked about the extent and nature of the government's links with the Murdoch press during Labour's 13 years in power. Meanwhile, Education Secretary Michael Gove and Home Secretary Theresa May will appear on Tuesday and Justice Secretary Kenneth Clarke on Wednesday.
Mr Hunt had asked for his appearance before the inquiry to be brought forward so he could give his side of the story as soon as possible, but was rebuffed by Lord Justice Leveson.
The inquiry has been presented with a cache of emails showing that News Corp lobbyist Fred Michel received inside information about the Department for Culture, Media and Sport's handling of the bid from Mr Hunt's former special adviser Adam Smith, who quit last month after admitting he went too far in acting as a point of contact with the company.
Last week, the inquiry published a memo sent by the Culture Secretary to Mr Cameron in November 2010, weeks before he took on the quasi-judicial role, in which he appeared to be making the case for News Corp's bid to go ahead.
Mr Hunt insists that he oversaw the process "with scrupulous fairness throughout" and has received strong backing from the Prime Minister. But Mr Cameron has also said that if anything arises from the inquiry that suggests the ministerial code might have been breached, he will call in his independent ethics adviser Sir Alex Allan or take immediate action himself.
A decision on whether Sir Alex should investigate the Culture Secretary's behaviour is expected shortly after Mr Hunt gives evidence.


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Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Average Interview
I applied online and the process took 3 weeks - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas.
Interview Details I filled out my application, and was contacted by one of their recruiters a week later. I interviewed briefly with them, which was followed by an interview with my manager, which was then followed by an interview with my manager and the group of people I'd be directly working with.
Interview Question – Standard questions, nothing difficult. Answer Question
Negotiation Details – There was a bit of flexibility in the negotiations.
Accepted Offer
Neutral Experience
Very Easy Interview
I applied online and interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas.
Interview Details First interview was with the HR representative. Very typical interview from the HR department. Second was with the actual department manager. After that it took forever to hear back from HR if I had the job or not....forever. Everything was very structured and from a interview protocol they follow as far as questions they asked and such. Not too personal at all.
Interview Question – There were none. Answer Question
Negotiation Details – Pay was according to experience. Rate was determined by HR and not the hiring manager
Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Average Interview
I applied online and the process took 4+ weeks - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas in March 2013.
Interview Details Very easy - after applying there were three interviews which all went swimmingly.
Interview Question – Everything was very simple - past work experience etc. Answer Question
Negotiation Details – No negotiation necessary - they offered me more than what was planned.
Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Easy Interview
I applied online and the process took a day - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas in February 2013.
Interview Details Hiring Process, from what I have heard tends to be quite hard to get in due to multi levels of background checks and the process alone is quite lengthy. It took approximately 5 weeks for my background check to clear after they offered me a position so BE CAREFUL when providing your two week notice, because you may find yourself temporarily unemployed until they cross their T's and dot their I's. The interview process is different compared to most they ask questions example "how do you handle an upset parent or doctor" and you have to provide a real life example or scenario. It starts off as a one on one interview with HR then from that point you interview with a small panel directly from the specific department. Expect to spend approximately 1-2 hours interviewing... Drink lots of coffee the questions are tedious, and you spend a great deal of time waiting as they write down comments word for word.
Interview Question – Give me a scenario in which you were dealing with an irate customer/patient/parent and how did you handle it? what were your steps to resolution View Answer
Negotiation Details – negotiating is cut and dry, because it is a not for profit establishment do not expect to make a large sum of money particuarly if looking at pay scales compared to other facilities.
Accepted Offer
Neutral Experience
Average Interview
I applied online and the process took 2 weeks - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas.
Interview Details Process starts with a phone interview. Next step is an onsite interview with the director, manager, and Enterprise Education team. You will also spend some time with the VP, and the director of clinical education.
Interview Question – Questions will vary, most unexpected will most likely come when you meet the Enterprise Education team. Answer Question
Negotiation Details – You will get a phone call with an offer and you have an opportunity to accept, decline or present a counter offer.
Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Difficult Interview
I applied online and the process took 1+ week - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas in July 2012.
Interview Details The interview process was long but was interesting. I learned a lot about the company and they seemed to be interested in making sure it was a fit for me and the staff.
Interview Question – Tell me about at time when you dealt with a difficult customer? Answer Question
Negotiation Details – It was easy, they offerred me what I wanted. It was no hassle.
Accepted Offer
Negative Experience
Difficult Interview
I applied through other source and the process took 2 months - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas in May 2012.
Interview Details
The process itself took forever. I don't think they were very serious about getting the position filled, which is unfortunate, because after getting here, I found out that the employees had been taking on extra work while the position was vacant. The employees desperately wanted to get the position filled, and management didn't seem to care.
I interviewed with people who were reading their interview questions from a sheet of paper and just blindly writing down what I said. I got the impression they didn't know what they were looking for, they just needed something to fill up their piece of paper. They were from various areas within Human Resources, and I don't think some of them even knew what the position involved.
Bottom line, I took the job. I was REALLY attracted to the mission and thought the pros out-weighed the cons. I was wrong. I compromised and now I regret it. I started looking for another job shortly after I got here and realized what I had gotten myself into!
Interview Questions
Negotiation Details – Negotiation was non-existent. You accept what they offer you or they choose another candidate. Be prepared to take a pay cut if you have the experience they are looking for. Because of the economy, they are able to pay low due to all of the unemployed HR people out there right now. However, after getting in and seeing their "merit increase" scale, I regret taking a lower offer. The scale is very low, and you will not even get an increase that matches the cost-of-living index. Couple that with rising benefits prices, and it will actually cost you money to work here each consecutive year...
No Offer
Positive Experience
Average Interview
The process took 2 days - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas in April 2012.
Interview Details Wonderful communication before the interview via email. Great team. Hiring manager met with me first. She had already reviewed my resume and had thoughtful questions about my experience. Then allowed me to meet with potential coworkers independently so that I could ask questions about the work environment and expectations. Team members gave me tour of clinical spaces. The second interview was several weeks later, where I met senior staff, who were all extremely welcoming and curious about my skill set. I met other clinic staff as well. The second interview was completed with another interview with the hiring manager, who asked more poignant questions about how I feel I could handle responsibilities after learning more about the job expectations. This was the best interview that I have ever had. I felt that the team took care to see how a new hire would potentially fit in their environment and it gave me time to see if I would like to work with the team. Although I was not offered a position (another applicant has better qualifications), all communication was timely and compassionate.
Interview Questions
Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Easy Interview
I applied online and the process took 3 days - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas in February 2012.
Interview Details I wasn't too fond of my interview with Human Resources, since they are not nurses. Most questions were standard such as "What would your old manager's tell us about you..." I interviewed with the nurse supervisors on the floor and was able to talk more about my work experiences, what i can offer, ect...
Interview Questions
Negotiation Details – Children's pays off a scale based on experience as an RN, it doesn't matter much if you had experience in the field you're interviewing for or not.
Accepted Offer
Positive Experience
Easy Interview
I applied online and the process took 2 days - interviewed at Children's Medical Center of Dallas in January 2012.
Interview Details Two in person interviews and a phone interview.
Pros: Most of my coworkers were very friendly. The management was supportive and encouraging. Community was encouraged highly. The standards were high. I learned a lot working there. – Full Review
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If you're an avid fan of this blog (and I hope you are!), you know by now that I love to sing the praises of LinkedIn. From connecting you with other professionals in your industry to funneling tons of traffic to your ecommerce site, I'm a massive fan of all the incredible opportunities LinkedIn can bring about.
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It's no exaggeration to say that LinkedIn provides online entrepreneurs with a wealth of business-building opportunities. If you haven't already signed up for a LinkedIn profile, I recommend you do so now. The benefits alone will amaze you!
How is Linkedin providing visibility for you and your business? Does your profile communicate the purpose and benefits to your audience?
My Passion Is Your Success!


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Search Term: 'All Parts'
Category: 'Emissions'
Vehicle: '1970 CHEVY CAMARO STANDARD'
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Camaro PCV Hose, With Pinch Clamps, 1967-1981 Part # RC-87
Reproduction of Original Long, Cut to Length Hose Molded 90° End (2) Correct Black Pinch Style Clamps Nice reproduction of the original Camaro Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) hose. On most Camaro applications the PCV hose runs from the PCV valve in the valve cover or oil fill tube (molded end) to a large fitting on the base plate of the carburetor. Replace your original oily, cracked original PCV hose with a new one from Rick's First Generation. Learn More
$15.99 ea.
Camaro Emissions Hose Clamp, 5/16", Yellow, 1967-81 Part # 749200
Reproduction Of Original Bright Yellow Paint Fits 5/16" Emission & Fuel Hoses Some Applications Used Up To 12 Clamps For The EEC System A Functioning EEC System Required In Most Emission Controlled States In 1970 under increasing pressure from EPA regulations, GM began to add evaporative emissions controls to many vehicles. The Camaro was no exception. Keep your emissions system functioning properly by replacing your hose clamps with these quality reproductions from Rick's All Generations. NOTE: What is EEC? EEC is an acronym for Evaporative Emission Control. It usually appears as a second and third vent port at the front of the gas tank. These ports act as a return line from the charcoal canister, fuel pump and vapor separator. EEC usually appeared on vehicles produced for sale in California and other emissions controlled states. Learn More
$1.09 ea.
Camaro Air Injection Reactor (AIR) Pump, Small Or Big Block, 1968-1971 Part # SMS-24
Application is for all 68-9 Small Block or Big Block. Rebuilt original smog pump is not show quality finish. Learn More
$129.99 ea.
Camaro PCV Valve, V8, All, Except Z28, 1970-1972 Part # 718494
Replacement Valve Fits All V8's Except Z28 This Camaro replacement PCV valve has been manufactured to meet or exceed factory specifications and performance. You will find the fit and function will work perfectly for your Camaro. You will also be pleased to know that Eckler's has sourced this PCV valve among other possible parts as the best choice for your repair or restoration project. Learn More
$4.99 ea.
Edelbrock 1970-1981 Camaro EGR Valve Adapter Part # 718782
Clears Carburetor Natural Cast Aluminum Finish Includes Necessary Gaskets & Bolts Use With P/N 718781 Carburetor The EGR valve adapter on your 1970-1981 Camaro controls a small passageway between the intake and exhaust manifolds. To start, EGR stands for exhaust gas recirculation, and is a technique used to recirculate your engine's exhaust gas back to the engine cylinders. Rick's Camaros is happy to partner with Edelbrock to bring you a new EGR valve adapter, to make installing your new intake and carburetor much easier. With this adapter, the existing EGR valve on your F-Body is repositioned to allow clearance for your carburetor. Made from cast aluminum and coming in a set complete with mounting gaskets and bolts, you will have everything you need for a great looking installation. Trust Rick's Camaros for all of your restoration and replacement needs for your 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, or 1981 Camaro! Learn More
$64.99 ea.
Camaro AC Delco, PCV Valve Grommet, 1967-1995 Part # 33-11624
Restoration Correct Correct Fit Fits Inline 6 And V8 Engines Made In USA Are you finding oil leaks or smke from your 1967-1995 Camaro? Ricks Camaros offers this AC Delco replacement PCV Valve Grommet. The PCV valve is an important part of a cars emissions control system. The acronym stands for Positive Crankcase Ventilation. The valve takes unburned "blowby" gases, gases that have escaped the combustion chambers by slipping past the pistons into the crankcase and funnels them back into the intake manifold, where they ultimately rejoin the air-fuel mixture and are reburned. The PCV valve essentially recycles these escaped gases, reducing air pollution and preventing moisture buildup inside the engine. Don't settle for just any replacement part for your 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 Camaro, use AC Delco replacement part, the same part that came from the factory. Trust Ricks Camaros for all your parts needs. Learn More
Camaro Diverter Valve Elbow, Air Injection Reactor (AIR) System, Small Or Big Block, 1969 Part # RC-611
High Quality Reproduction Diverter Valve Aluminum Construction Correct OEM Stamping Used On 302, 350, 396, LS5 And LS6 The smog diverter elbow play an integral role in you r 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975 or 1976 Camaro's AIR system. The diverter elbow bolts between the smog pump and diverter valve. The Air Injection Reactor System was used by GM in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Chances are your car came with smog control. When you are restoring your original AIR system, look no further than Rick's Camaros for the correct parts to get the job done right. Take this diverter elbow for example. The OEM style aluminum construction ad correct stamping make this the perfect restoration part. You can count on Rick's Camaros for all your 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975 or 1976 Camaro restoration parts, large or small. Learn More
$44.99 ea.
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Chapters Indigo
Chapters/Indigo: Save 10-100% Off When You Buy an Eligible Item + A Greeting Card (In Stores)
Chapters announced a new Mother's Day promotion running for the next week -- right now, you can pick up a promotional card in stores, which will reveal a surprise discount off your purchase. The cards are worth at least 10% off, but you also have the chance of winning anywhere up to 100% off your purchase (chances of winning big are 1:200).
To use the card, you'll just need to buy a greeting card in addition to any other items you wish to purchase (so, if you are planning on picking up a Mother's Day gift and card at Chapters, this deal is for you). The card can't be used towards the purchase of electronics/accessories, giftcards, memberships, Rosetta Stone interactive learning software and Indigo Love of Reading foundation fundraising purchases.
For more information, or to see the odds of winning each discount, click here. This offer is running in stores only, until May 13.
If you're stuck for gift ideas, browse the Mother's Day gift shop.


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Cut out Mini Dress
Founded in 1989, BCBGMAXAZRIA is the vision of one man: founder, designer, chairman and CEO Max Azria. Named for the French phrase bon chic, bon genre, a Parisian slang meaning good style, good attitude, the brand embodies a true combination of European sophistication and American spirit. The collection is a resulting line of directional, sophisticated designs in the most luxurious fabrics. Celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Rachel Bilson and Eva Mendes amongst many others, are huge fans of the brand.
- Self: 63% poly 33% rayon 4% spandex
Lining: 100% poly - Shoulder seam to hem measures approx 37" in length
- Fully lined
- Hand wash cold
- Cut out accents
- Metal stud accents throughout
- Center back zipper closure
- Styled with Tibi Carine Ankle Strap Heels in Black.
- Styled with Bing Bang Anchor Ring in Brass.
- Styled with gorjana Blake Gem Cuff in Gold.
- Styled with gorjana Eden Stack Ring Set in Gold/Rose Gold.
- Styled with Jacquie Aiche "Me" Ring in Gold.
- Styled with CC Skye Double Header Pave Spike Bracelet.
- Modeled in size 2. See fit guide for model's dimensions.
- Revolve Style No. BCB-WD251
- Manufacturer Style No. ZBA6W146


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Parks, Recreation & Libraries locations will be closing early on Christmas Eve and the majority of the locations will remain closed through January 1, reopening on Wednesday, January 2.The Roseville Sports Center and Mike Shellito Indoor Pool will be open during the holiday break with the exception of Christmas and New Year's Days and shortened hours on the eve's proceeding.The Roseville Sports Center has expanded hours for the Climbing Wall 2-7pm on weekdays and 11-3 on the weekends for December 26-January 4.The Indoor Pool is hosting additional Recreational Swims during the break since the kids are out of school. Recreational swim is available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 1-3:30 in addition to the normal swim hours of Friday, 7:30-9 and Saturday-Sunday, 1-4.As always, parks are open sunrise-one hour after sunset. Happy Holidays!
( Download the calendar )


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Avenue Café & Lounge - Holiday Inn Central
Online Reservations
I was super impressed by this restaraunt, this is the first time I ever went here and I was blown away by the amazing food and service. I was recommended to come here by a good friend of mine after he went to the brunch here and had an amazing experience and I regret nothing. The service was superior compared to all of the restaraunts I had recently went too. The chef even came to my table to talk to me in person, he did the same for many others as well. The food was just delicious and wonderfully flavored. I look forward to coming to this neighborhood gem again because I'm sure it will be yet another great experience.
This is a hidden gem! The welcome was fantastic and all of the staff members were extremely pleasant and accomodating, several going above and beyond. Th place itself is small but comforting and the food was flavorful(especially the pasteries-which they make in-house fresh daily YUMMY!!) They even make eggs to,order not just omelets(how fantastic is that)! This is a must visit brunch location, the price is right, the service devine, food delicious. I give it an A+. My mom is wheelchair bound and they went out of the way to accomodate her and paid her extra attention. WOW!
I had a great time at this restaraunt, the food was excellent and the ambiance was great. The restaraunt jut underwent some major renovations so the place looked amazing. The service was extremely good. The waiters were very kind and pacient and knew a lot about the menu. I had a question about some of the food and the chef personally came out to talk to me. I had a great time at this restaraunt and would recommend it for anyone.
Our family dined at Avenue Cafe Bar and Grill for their Mother's Day brunch. Upon arrival we were immediately seated at a table reserved with my name on it. This was a nice personal touch. The staff was very friendly and attentive. Very nice that the manager took time to stop by each table to ensure customers dining experience was going well. The food was good and included the typical buffet offerings, including an omelet and meat carving station. Mimosas and champagne was included in the buffet price. Our only complaint was the pancakes and waffles on the buffet were cold and a little hard. The cafe should consider only preparing waffles/pancakes as patrons orders them. Overall the food and service was very good.
They always make us feel like family at Avenue Cafe. That is why we keep coming back.
The menu is very extensive and I had a hard time picking just one thing. The portions are substantial and the value is exceptional. The ribs were very fatty, but that was my only bone to pick (so to speak). Recommended.
We had spent the day volunteering for the One Million Bones installation on the National Mall, we were returning to our hotel , and passed the Avenue Cafe and Bar. Quite tired from the activities of the day, we decided to make a reservation there, since it was only a block from where we were staying. What a nice surprise ! We were warmly greeted by the staff, seated immediately, and ordered our beverages. Our order consisted of the pasta special, as well as ,the braised short ribs. Both meals were excellent, with the short ribs being among some of the best I have had. The servers were quite attentive without being overbearing. We would definitely dine at the Avenue again.
The food was amazing and the brunch was plentiful. It also came with a great value, with unlimited mimosas the price was great. The only problem was the restaraunt itself, the chairs are beat up and the carpet is worn out, it would be a great place if it was not so tarnished. Side note the place was uncomfortably warm and the management said that the ac would be fixed soon, so I hope it was due to the fact that it was really hot. Otherwise, the place was great the only downside was the ambiance,the servers were kind and the food was really delicious
Lovelen Pyles truly enjoyed brunch!! The food was sooooo good and so many great options. And best of all was the unlimited Mimosa, Champagne and Bloody Marys all for under $25. I WILL come again!!!!!!!
The was a new menu (as advertised) was amazing, and the food was extremely good, very flavorful. The service was top-notch and I had a great time here, it truly is a neighborhood gem. I have heard a lot of good things about the Sunday brunch here so I look forward to trying that out as well. After their newer renovations the place looks amazing, the tables are beautifully decorated and set-up. Everything, even the bar has been completely upgraded...would recommend this place to anyone
A nice little place....near the Logan Circle area and away from the downtown area. But a good find. Very pleasant and quiet with good food at an extremely reasonable price. If you want to get away from the downtown DC madness, give this place a try. A very personable staff will greet and take care of you. We enjoyed ourselves.
My family had a wonderful time. Good food, good service, decent price for holiday buffet. Will come back for Sunday Brunch.
Felt like we were at home. Food was outstanding, Prime Rib & turkey great. Service was warm and friendly. Will definitely come back when in area.
I went to this restaraunt for thanksgiving becuase I heard that they had a special Thanksgiving buffet, and I was ecstatic, their food was top notch and extremely plentiful. Their staff were all kind and helpful, I couldn't have asked for a better time. The atmosphere around the restaraunt was so lively and festive that the second I walked in I felt extremely happy. I was pleasantly surprised to see the director walking around and talking/welcoming all of the guests, it made me feel like the restaraunt was a home away from home. I would recommend this place for anyone, I believe I have found my new favorite place.


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It's Spring! The sun is finally out for more than a few hours at a time, trees, however few in the city, are bursting back to life, and the streets are full of spring dresses and pasty shoulders, finally seeing some action after months of hibernation. Just when we finally thought we could stop huddling around our radiators hoping for some warmth, the most awesome heating device in the world was created. We know your eyes are still adjusting to the light, but feast your eyes on the coolest radiator ever the be invented: The Super Hot T-Rex.
If it seems a tad impractical because of its size--well, it is. While not quite as big as its museum dwelling counterparts, this is quite a bit more Jurassic in size than a normal radiator. As a bonus, though, it looks like it would be pretty easy to hang some clothes wet from the weather on. It doubles as a pretty nice hat and scarf rack so long as nothing flammable gets put on it. Let's face it. The only thing better than a T-Rex skeleton is one that can be dressed up.
Check out more at Art Lebedev Studio's official website!
[Via Yanko Design]


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A luxurious wreath designed by our skilled florists. Brimming with roses and calla lilies, seasonal blooms and foliage, this is a luxuriously bold wreath with a delicate edge. The beautiful calla lilies and roses are surrounded by eucalyptus and fern foliage. An evocative and truly understated tribute, our calla lily wreath is a popular choice.? Our florists hand-design each arrangement, so colors, varieties, and container may vary due to local availability.
, we have connected these accounts. You can now sign into 1-800Flowers.com anytime using Facebook Connect.


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Its grillin time! This play Little Tikes Backyard Barbecue Picnic Set comes with enough goodies for the perfect pretend picnic lunch! The Backyard Barbecue Picnic Set helps develop role playing, sharing and social skills. The set comes with 13 play pieces for 2 kids to share a barbecue lunch. The Little Tikes Backyard Barbecue Picnic Set compliments the Little Tikes Get Out N' Grill Barbecue Set. The Little Tikes Company, founded in 1970, is a multi-national manufacturer and marketer of high-quality, innovative children's products. In November of 2006, Little Tikes became a part of MGA Entertainment. MGA Entertainment is a leader in the revolution of family entertainment. Little Tikes headquarters and largest manufacturing facility are located in Hudson, Ohio. The company also has a number of locations outside the United States, including several manufacturing and distribution centers in Europe and Asia. Little Tikes products are known for providing durable, imaginative and active fun. Products are manufactured in a wide variety of categories for young children, including infant toys, popular sports, play trucks, ride-on toys, sandboxes, activity gyms and climbers, slides, pre-school development, role-play toys, creative arts and juvenile furniture. The red and yellow Cozy Coupe Car, an international icon in toys, celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2004, with more than 6 million units sold since its creation. Little Tikes goal is to create and supply innovative products to customers and consumers around the world. To reach that goal, Little Tikes associates actions are guided by the principles of Customer Satisfaction, Teamwork, Innovation, Marketing and Continuous Improvement.
"R"Web#: 397012
Manufacturer #: 617928
Product Weight:1.1 pounds
Product Dimensions (in inches):10.0 x 8.0 x 3.1
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Nice Creative play toy
By Preschool Teacher
from Indianapolis, IN
About Me Education Oriented, Parent Of Two Or More Children
See all my reviews
Comments about Little Tikes 1001284 Little Tikes Backyard Barbecue Picnic Set:
Bought to use in housekeeping area in Preschool classroom. I like the sturdiness of the pieces and how realistic they are. Set included all the pieces for the children to have their pretend picnic.
Comment on this review
Better than most
By mackid meg
from Chattanooga, TN
About Me Parent Of Two Or More Children, Stay At Home Parent
This food set is a higher quality than most. I hate when the food looks cheap. I didn't mind paying a little more for it!
Love This Item
By Mom Again
from San Antonio, TX
About Me Working Parent
The toy is visually appealing and looks authentic!!! Big chunky pieces easy to hold but not so big you can't handle them. My daughter got them for her second birthday with a kitchen set and loves it!!!
Love the tongs and napkins
By CC
from Fairfax, VA
About Me Parent Of Two Or More Children, Working Parent
Nice set of play food and accessories, especially the fabric napkins and the tongs, which you don't find in most sets of plastic food toys. The Mac-and-cheese is yellow, same color as the corn, not white as shown in the picture. Good addition to our kitchen playset. My son likes the tongs!
Love this.
By Mom of 2 boys
from Huntington, New York
About Me Education Oriented, Parent Of Two Or More Children, Working Parent
My son loves the food picnic set. We have a picnic at least twice a day. He pretends to take orders and heats the food in his pretend microwave.
Nice set to go along with BBQ grill
By Ben the chef
from Manchester ,NJ
About Me Grandparent
Nice play set for this age group
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
Nice complement to Little Tikes BBQ Set
By Giftgiver
from New York, NY
I bought this as a companion gift to the Little Tykes Get Out N' Grill Barbeque Set. The 2 year old has been playing with it every day. Since the BBQ set came with limited accessories, this was perfect. I just wish they didn't have the tongs and turner (since the BBQ set already has that), and included more food.
Wonderful Set
By Mom
from Dallas, TX
Great quality!
Just Great!
By ody's mom
from San Diego, CA
About Me First Time Parent
So cute!! I love the little napkins and the spoons/knives/forks are of great quality! My son is always carrying the corn around and pretends to eat them.
Great Product!
By Whitney
from Clear Lake, IA
About Me First Time Parent, Working Parent
This food is awesome! We purchased it to go with the little tikes picnic and bbq patio set and we are not dissapointed. Unlike most play food it is not cheap and flimsey. Its super cute and the utenciles are great too!
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text:
You know what I miss? The ghost pages. BRING BACK THE GHOST PAGES!!!!
Lawdog - "That may be the dirtiest thing anyone has ever said on here."
They won't allow me to do that in here. I'll get banned. Except, amazingly enough, that one time I posted the pic of me and Jibs....
Lawdog - "That may be the dirtiest thing anyone has ever said on here."
the livestream is gonna start soon right?
More Ayreon!
"Fire has other worldly powers" -Lawdog1521
Anyone else struggling to open the livestream? The page times out and won't load...
SillyStou: What will happen to this place when Rock Band ceases to exist?
RockBandRocker: We will all migrate to the Dance Central forums. It will be like Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt.
Munnchy: Only Flashier, with impeccable dance moves.
RockBandRocker: With more glitter and glam. We will survive


text:
13-in. Nonstick Bakeware Nonstick Pizza Crisper by Farberware
In Stock Ships from Supplier in 2-4 business days.
About Subscription Ordering
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Simply login to your "Manage Recurring Orders" page in Your Account at any time to modify the frequency of your shipments, the quantity of your subscription, and billing or shipping address and payment methods. Changes will take place immediately and will be applied to all unshipped orders associated with your subscription.
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In Stock Ships from Supplier in 2-4 business days. Sorry, gift wrap is not available for this item. Item #548876
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This item has a longer processing time than most. In order to receive this item by Christmas you must place your order no later than the following dates:12/10 with UPS Ground
12/16 with UPS 2Day12/17 with UPS Next Day
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CloseIMPORTANT HOLIDAY SHIPPING DEADLINES This item has a longer processing time than most. In order to receive this item by Christmas you must place your order no later than the following dates:
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- Cleaning & Care: Handwash Recommended
- Dimensions: 13-in. diameter
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Origin: Thailand
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Pizza Crisper
Awesome. best cooked crust ever.
I recommend this product. -
Costa Rica pizza queen.
Great pizza pan!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I recommend this product. -
great product.
I recommend this product.
- September 7, 2013
- By: Cyndi
- From: PA
- I Cook: Very Often
- Style: Family
Haven't use this much, but just made a nice gluten-free pizza on the grill. First one we've made which came out nice and crispy, so love that~
- February 4, 2013
- By: Tamara
- From: NY
- I Cook: Very Often
- Style: Family
so easy to use and with prebaking the dough - and the regular bake time, made a perfect crust. Also pizza slid off very easily.
- December 24, 2012
- By: gail
- From: FL
- I Cook: Very Often
- Style: Family
love this pan ,it really does crisp the pizza when cooking.
- August 20, 2012
- By: Sharon
- From: OR
- I Cook: Every Day
- Style: Family
I like that it is easy to clean and I use for crispy pizza and crispy chicken.
- April 5, 2012
- By: julie
- From: NV
- I Cook: Every Day
- Style: Family
great product.
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text:
More Cyclosalpa affinis:
Colonial planktonic pelagic tunicate, adrift in the open ocean, forms rings and chains as it drifts with ocean currents. San Diego, California, USAStock Photo: 26824 -?- Species: Salp, Cyclosalpa affinisLocation: San Diego, California, USAFormat: Digital 2:3Other Names: salp chain, pelagic tunicateCopyright © Phillip Colla, all rights reserved worldwide.Purchase a print of this imageRequest a review copy of this image
Keywords: animal, animalia, california, chordata, creature, cyclosalpa, cyclosalpa affinis, invertebrate, jellyfish, marine, marine invertebrate, nature, notochord, ocean, oceans, outdoors, outside, pacific, pacific, pelagic tunicate, plankton, planktonic, salp, salp chain, salpida, salpidae, san diego, submarine, thalicea, thalicea, tunicate, tunicates, underwater, urochordata, usa, wildlife, zooplankton
About color management and monitor adjustment.
Updated: December 9, 2013


text:
Pat and Bill Boersma started Bravo Farms dairy in 1979. Located near Visalia in the San Jaoquin Valley in California, Bill and Pat ran the farm solely as a dairy operation for several years before making the decision to get into cheese production and to concentrate their efforts on making cheddar.
In 2006, the Boersmas made the decision to sell their herd of 80 cows to a neighbor, which has allowed them to focus their attention solely on cheese production. They continue to work closely with, and buy the milk back from the herd's new owner, thereby ensuring the necessary quality and consistency for cheesemaking.
In addition to this development, Bill and Pat have recently formed a partnership with Jonathan Van Ryn, a young artisan cheesemaker who studied cheesemaking at California Polytechnic University. Jonathan's arrival has allowed Bravo to expand production considerably without compromising quality.
Now, in addition to the traditional cheddars, Bravo has gone into the production of Silver Mountain, a cloth bound cheddar that is matured for nine months.
Bravo Premium Cheddar is aged for a minimum of 90 days but usually ages about one year before it is released. The texture is firm and smooth, with a creamy mouthfeel.
Flavors are buttery and rounded with a pleasant tang and notes of toasted brioche and butterscotch.


text:
Supermicro P3TDE6
Many of your questions may have already been answered in earlier discussions or in the FAQ. The search results page will indicate current discussions as well as past list serves, articles, and papers.
Patrick Geoffray patrick at myri.comWed Oct 31 03:32:56 PST 2001
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Ray Muno wrote: > When I try to install Redhat 7.1 on these machines, they all seem to hang > when they try to access the SCSI disk. At that point, I get disk timeouts > and the machine will not boot any further. I have swapped disks around > between the 3 machines and still see the problem. I was able to load > Redhat 7.2 as a test and it will boot occasionly. At times, it hangs > as well. I don't know if it's exactely the same problem, but try to boot the kernel with "noapic". Are you using the embedded SCSI controler ? Do you have anything in the 64 bits PCI slots ? Patrick ---------------------------------------------------------- | Patrick Geoffray, Ph.D. patrick at myri.com | Myricom, Inc. http://www.myri.com | Cell: 865-389-8852 685 Emory Valley Rd (B) | Phone: 865-425-0978 Oak Ridge, TN 37830 ----------------------------------------------------------
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text:
Our team has recently been engaged as the exclusive marketing agent to represent the developers in the sale of the condos at the first multi-family Passive House to be built in the United States. For some of our potential customers, and perhaps those in the real estate community, this raises the question: "So what is a Passive House?" We thought we would take a look at the basics.
According the Passive House Institute U.S.:
"A Passive House is a very well-insulated, virtually air-tight building that is primarily heated by passive solar gain and by internal gains from people, electrical equipment, etc. Energy losses are minimized. Any remaining heat demand is provided by an extremely small source. Avoidance of heat gain through shading and window orientation also helps to limit any cooling load, which is similarly minimized. An energy recovery ventilator provides a constant, balanced fresh air supply. The result is an impressive system that not only saves up to 90% of space heating costs, but also provides a uniquely terrific indoor air quality."
The PassivHaus standard arose out of a collaboration that begin in 1988 between Professor Bo Adamson of Lund University in Sweden and Professor Wolfgang Feist of the Institute for Housing and Environment in Germany. The collaboration ultimately grew into the development of a standard that could be applied methodologically to any property type. Today, there are more than 25,000 Passive Houses in Europe and dozens of certified buildings in the United States with hundreds more now being planned across the country.
Unlike other sustainable development standards, Passive House certification focuses primarily on reducing the energy consumption of the building by reducing the heating and cooling demand to a level near zero. Over the course of a building's lifespan, 85% of its environmental impact is caused by energy consumption. To reduce that impact, Passive Houses focus on the quality of the building's envelope and the orientation and design of the structure. The envelope's thermal performance must be optimal, it must be virtually air-tight and free of heat-bridges (see the Thermogram below. The dark colors show how little heat is escaping from the Passive House on the right and how much is escaping from the traditionally built building on the left).
In order to receive certification as a Passive House, a building must meet the following absolute requirements:
- It must have an annual heating demand of not more than 15kWh/m² per year (4746 btu/ft² per year) in heating and 15 kWh/m² per year cooling energy OR be designed with a peak heat load of 10W/m²
- Total primary energy (source energy for electricity and etc.) consumption (primary energy for heating, hot water and electricity) must not be more than 120 kWh/m² per year (3.79 × 104 btu/ft² per year)
- The building must not leak more air than 0.6 times the house volume per hour (n50 ≤ 0.6 / hour) at 50 Pa (N/m²) as tested by a blower door
There appears to be quite an interest in Passive Houses in the United States. Our team has been networking at sustainable development events in recent months and have met a myriad of architects, engineers, contractors, developers, and end users with an interest in building to the standard. There are numerous other single family homes that have been built as Passive Houses in Brooklyn and we recently heard of two planned condominium developments totaling more than thirty units. Last year, when the Passive House in the Woods opened its doors to visitors, more than 2,000 people came to learn about the property in a six week period.
If you are interested in learning more about the Passive House standard, there are literally thousands of great resources available with a quick Google search (don't forget to check out all the great videos on You Tube as well). If you are interested in speaking to our team about developing, purchasing, or selling a Passive House building, please feel free to reach out to us at (212) 400-4838 or via e-mail at email@example.com


text:
Update as of 12 p.m. Oct. 30:
Connecticut's power outage numbers from this nor'easter have surpassed those of the previous record holders: Hurricane Gloria and Tropical Storm Irene.
Gov. Dannel P. Malloy says there are now about 750,000 homeowners and businesses without power. And, according to the Associated Press, there's about 3 million customers without power on the East Coast.
Connecticut Light & Power, the state's largest utility provider, is reporting that it could be a week or more before some customers see their lights turned back on. In a Tweet, CL&P wrote:
Unprecedented damage from this storm. Please prepare for worst case scenario - a week or more without power. Call 211 for shelter info.
To report outages to CL&P call 800-286-2000 or 860-947-2000, or visit its website.
CL&P's outage map is mostly black, particularly in north central Connecticut, which means between 80 and 100 percent of customers are without power there. Coastal Connecticut and the eastern part of the state have fared better, with limited outages in comparison.
As for the United Illuminating Company, it's reporting that 5% of its customers are without power. On its Twitter account, @UnitedIllum, it wrote:
Jim Torgerson - CEO - Giving the current conditions, UI expects to have virtually all customers restored by Monday night - Oct. 31st.
To report an outage, call 800-722-5584 or visit UI's website.
Many towns affected by the outages, including Cheshire where 92 percent are without power, have opened emergency shelters.
The original story follows:
As night sets in during this first nor'easter of the winter, thousands of residents and businesses will not be able to turn their lights on tonight.
As expected, heavy snow and strong winds have led to downed limbs and power lines throughout Connecticut. Both Connecticut Light & Power and the United Illuminating Company are reporting outages in nearly every community.
Cheshire is among the hardest hit, with 6,131 without power. Shelton, Hamden, Bethany and North Haven also have outages in the thousands.
Here's a list of nearby UI towns and outage numbers (as of 5:45 p.m.):
- Stratford -- 84
- Milford -- 279
- Orange -- 187
- Woodbridge -- 4
- Hamden -- 2,261
- East Haven -- 88
- North Haven -- 557
- New Haven -- 1,381
- West Haven 14
- Shelton -- 4,184
- Bridgeport -- 1,359
And here's what CL&P's reporting:
- Bethany -- 2,076
- Branford -- 591
- Clinton -- 1,157
- Cheshire -- 6,131
As a result of the extent of damage by the storm, CL&P has opened its Emergency Operations Center in Berlin.
Over 200 CL&P line and tree crews are working to restore power to customers affected by outages and the company is in the process of securing additional help. "As was predicted, the heavy, wet snow is weighing down the trees and creating issues across the state," said Al Roy, CL&P's manager of Emergency Management. "Our crews and support staff continue to respond as the storm moves through and we are communicating with town and state officials to coordinate efforts."
CL&P will be assessing storm damage as soon as it is safe to do so, the utility said. An estimate as to when power will be restored will be available once the assessment is complete.
In the meantime, CL&P is reminding customers to:
- Stay away from all downed wires. Assume any downed, hanging or burning power lines are live and dangerous and call 9-1-1 immediately. If a power line falls on your vehicle while you're inside, stay there. Don't touch anything outside the vehicle and wait for emergency crews.
- Report your power outage by calling CL&P at 800-286-2000. Our automated phone system rapidly processes your report and helps us speed restoration efforts. It also provides restoration estimates as soon as they're available.
- Before operating a generator, make sure it has been properly installed by a licensed electrician. Improperly installed generators can feed electricity back into power lines and pose a deadly situation for our line workers. Always operate generators outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide hazards.
- If you lose power, turn off your circuit breakers. This will help reduce the possibility of damage to sensitive electronic equipment once power is restored.
For helpful tips and updates, visit cl-p.com, follow the utility on Twitter @CTLightandPower and at Facebook.com/CTLightandPower. CL&P customers can also get updates on outages in your town by texting "outage" and your zip code to 24612 (texting fees may apply).
UI customers can report outages online and by calling 1-800-7CALLUI or 203-499-3333.


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Tales from Firozsha Baag, Rohinton Mistry
Tales from Firozsha Baag Rohinton Mistry
Indian-born Canadian short-story writer and novelist.
The following entry presents criticism on Mistry's short story collection Tales from Firozsha Baag (1987) from 1989 through 2001.
Published in 1987, Tales from Firozsha Baag is a collection of eleven interrelated stories that explore the lives of several residents in a Bombay apartment complex. In the volume, Mistry particularly focuses on the Parsi, or Parsee, community, a small religious minority that traces its roots to Zorostrianism and ancient Persia. By examining the Parsi culture through a combination of sympathy and criticism, Mistry analyzes the conflicts that arise among Parsi individuals both in Indian society, where they are often excluded by the predominant Hindu and Muslim populations, and in Western nations.
Plot and Major Characters
Tales from Firozsha Baag chronicles the experiences of the residents of a Bombay apartment complex known as Firozsha Baag. In "The Exercisers," the young protagonist defies his parents and their spiritual advisor by dating a woman who is not a Parsi, while Dualat of "Condolence Visit" shocks her neighbors by departing from religious custom and refusing to mourn her husband according to Parsi tradition. To suggest each character's mental anguish, Mistry incorporates elements of mysticism and surrealism in his stories: the lonely Parsi maid of "The Ghost of Firozsha Baag" has a sexual relationship with a spirit, while a mentally unbalanced woman imprisons her neighbor's child in a bird cage in "The Paying Guests." A few stories in the volume explore the immigrant experience. In the final story of the collection, "Swimming Lessons," one of the children mentioned in an earlier story, Kersi, has grown up and emigrated to Canada. A budding writer, he has written a book of stories about his childhood in Firozsha Baag. When he sends his book back home, his parents are upset by his perspective on Indian life and worry that he is not happy in Canada. In fact, Kersi is lonely, reminiscing about his childhood, and having sexual fantasies about the women taking swimming lessons with him at an indoor pool.
Major Themes
Tales from Firozsha Baag largely focuses on the cultural identity and challenges of faith experienced by the residents of Firozsha Baag. Several characters in the collection reject Parsi tradition and embrace secular, more modern customs, as in "The Exercisers" and "The Condolence Visit." Others struggle to maintain their faith in light of religious doubt and other formidable challenges. In this way Mistry explores a community torn between the old ways and the new. He also illuminates the relationship between the sexes, which is often determined by religious and cultural conventions. In stories such as "Auspicious Occasions," women are relegated to subordinate roles in relationships and are forced to sacrifice their own autonomy and ambitions in favor of societal approval and harmonious familial relationships. Alienation is another thematic concern in the stories, particularly in those that focus on the diasporic experience. As Kersi, the protagonist in "The Swimming Lessons," has trouble adjusting to his new life in Canada, he feels dislocated from his Indian heritage as well as from the modern Canadian culture around him. He turns to nostalgia and fantasy to assuage the loneliness and alienation he feels. In "Lend Me Your Light," the protagonist feels guilt for leaving his family and his homeland after moving to Toronto. Moreover, the Parsi residents that reside in Firozsha Baag are separated by their religious beliefs from the greater Indian community. As a small religious minority, the residents of the housing complex often experience conflict with Indian society, where they are often excluded by the predominant Hindu and Muslim populations.
Critical Reception
Tales from Firozsha Baag garnered significant critical attention at the time of its publication. Reviewers regard Mistry as a gifted storyteller and a distinctive voice in Canadian literature. They also praise the intelligence, wit, and compassion of the stories included in the collection. Some critics claimed that because protagonists of several stories in Tales from Firozsha Baag play such minor roles in other stories, the book's emotional impact was lessened; others have praised his use of recurring characters. Mistry's short fiction has been favorably compared to such prominent Indian writers as V. S. Naipaul and R. K. Narayan, as well as to James Joyce's seminal collection of short fiction Dubliners.
Principal Works
Tales from Firozsha Baag (short fiction) 1987; also published as Swimming Lessons, and Other Stories from Firozsha Baag, 1989
Such a Long Journey (novel) 1991
A Fine Balance: A Novel (novel) 1996
Family Matters (novel) 2002
(The entire section is 31 words.)
SOURCE: Garebian, Keith. "In the Aftermath of Empire: Identities in the Commonwealth of Literature." Canadian Forum 68, no. 780 (April 1989): 25-33.
[In the following excerpt, Garebian contends that with Tales from Firozsha Baag Mistry has provided a significant short fiction that expresses a Parsi sensibility.]
Indian fiction in English has long passed out of its nostalgic and nationalistic phases although its truths, as V. S. Naipaul has frequently complained, have tended to be rehearsals of old myths—perennial answers to perennial questions. But with the advent of such excellent writers as Salman Rushdie and Anita Desai, the province of Indo-Anglian fiction has acquired a sophistication based more on technical accomplishment than on sociological or thematic stakes. With Midnight's Children and Shame, Rushdie redrew the Indian literary map (as the New York Times asserted), showing on the one hand, a marvelous epic sense and feeling for contemporary history, and on the other, a robust, baroque style which, while buoyantly in the tradition of Grass, Borges, and Marquez, never lost sight of its debt to earlier literary masters such as Sterne and Dickens. Desai proved with her most recent novel, In Custody, that she could more than rival R. K. Narayan in satire, while telling a more piquant truth about human comic agony.
The past year, however, has...
(The entire section is 1462 words.)
SOURCE: Bailey, Peter J. "Fiction and Difference." North American Review 274, no. 4 (December 1989): 61-4.
[In the following excerpt, Bailey underscores the originality and distinctiveness of the stories in Tales from Firozsha Baag.]
At the end of Rohinton Mistry's story, "Swimming Lessons," the protagonist, an Indian who has emigrated to Canada, sends the manuscript of a collection of stories he has written while in his new land to his parents back home in Bombay. Although delighted with the work, his father nonetheless anticipates a problem. These stories about his son's boyhood in India, about the apartment complex he grew up in and the eccentric people who reside there, will, his father thinks, "become popular because I am sure they are interested there in reading about life through the eyes of an immigrant, it provides a different viewpoint; the only danger is if he changes and becomes so much like them that he will write like one of them and lose the important difference."
What Kersi's father is invoking here is not only the immigrant's anxieties about being completely absorbed into an adopted culture, but also the writer's nightmare of losing the "important difference" which makes her/his work distinctive, individual, original. At a time when more fiction is being published than at any other period in history, when there are more forms of media turning out more...
(The entire section is 1145 words.)
SOURCE: Heble, Ajay. "'A Foreign Presence in the Stall': Towards a Poetics of Cultural Hybridity in Rohinton Mistry's Migration Stories." Canadian Literature 137 (summer 1993): 51-61.
[In the following essay, Heble provides a stylistic and thematic exploration of the migration stories in Tales from Firozsha Baag.]
The title for this paper finds its origin in a short story called "Squatter" by South-Asian-Canadian writer Rohinton Mistry. This story, from Mistry's collection Tales from Firozsha Baag, is, for reasons which I hope will become apparent a little later, a story within a story, and it comes to a focus in the character of Sarosh, an Indian from a Parsi community in Bombay who decides to emigrate to Canada. Before Sarosh leaves his native India, a party is held in his honour and, at this party, his friends and family debate the relative merits and demerits of Sarosh's decision to go abroad. Some of his friends commend Sarosh, suggesting that, by emigrating, he is doing a wonderful thing; "his whole life," they feel, is going to "change for the better" (Tales [Tales from Firozsha Baag] 154). Others, however, are somewhat more circumspect, insisting that Sarosh is making a big mistake: "emigration," they argue is "all wrong, but if he wanted to be unhappy that was his business, they wished him well"...
(The entire section is 5017 words.)
SOURCE: Ross, Robert L. "Seeking and Maintaining Balance: Rohinton Mistry's Fiction." World Literature Today 73, no. 2 (spring 1999): 239.
[In the following essay, Ross traces the development of Mistry's fiction and praises his compelling depiction of a Parsi community in Tales from Firozsha Baag.]
The title of Rohinton Mistry's second novel, A Fine Balance, suggests a worthwhile way to explore his fiction. Even Mistry's biography constitutes a kind of balancing act. Born in India in 1952, he grew up in Bombay and received a degree from the University of Bombay in mathematics and economics. In 1975 he immigrated to Canada, working in a bank to support himself while studying English and philosophy at the University of Toronto, where he received a second bachelor's degree in 1984. Although an immigrant, an outsider in Canadian society, Mistry already understood this condition, for in India he belonged to the Parsi community, whose Zoroastrian religious beliefs set its members on the edge of Hindu society. After a few years in Canada, he started writing stories and gained immediate attention, receiving two Hart House literary prizes and Canadian Fiction Magazine's annual Contributors' Prize in 1985. Two years later, Penguin Books Canada published a collection of eleven stories titled Tales from Firozsha Baag, which appeared in 1989 in the United States as Swimming Lessons and...
(The entire section is 4663 words.)
SOURCE: Davis, Rocio G. "Negotiating Place/Re-Creating Home: Short-Story Cycles by Naipaul, Mistry, and Vassanji." In Telling Stories: Postcolonial Short Fiction in English, edited by Jacqueline Bardolph, pp. 323-32. Amsterdam: Rodopi, 2001.
[In the following essay, Davis considers the importance of place and home in Tales from Firozsha Baag, V. S. Naipaul's Miguel Street, and M. G. Vassanji's Uhuru Street.]
The negotiation of place and the attempt to re-create a home through memory and writing has been a common undertaking for many writers in the new literatures in English. V. S. Naipaul's Miguel Street, Rohinton Mistry's Tales From Firozsha Baag and M. G. Vassanji's Uhuru Street offer reflections on the importance of place and home in the genre of the short-story cycle. Anyone who writes about his homeland from the outside must "deal in broken mirrors, some of whose fragments have been irretrievably lost."1 Yet it is precisely the fragmentary nature of these memories that makes them evocative for the 'transplanted' writer. These "shards of memory acquired greater status, greater resonance, because they were remains, fragmentation made trivial things seem like symbols, and the mundane acquired numinous qualities."2 As such, the short-story cycle may be seen as a formal manifestation of both the pluralistic culture in which...
(The entire section is 3671 words.)
Further Reading
Malan, Amin. "Images in India." Canadian Literature, no. 119 (winter 1988): 101-03.
A favorable review of Tales from Firozsha Baag.
Additional coverage of Mistry's life and career is contained in the following sources published by Thomson Gale: Contemporary Authors, Vol. 141; Contemporary Authors New Revision Series, Vols. 86, 114; Contemporary Canadian Authors, Vol. 1; Contemporary Literary Criticism, Vol. 71; Contemporary Novelists, Ed. 7; DISCovering Authors: Canadian Edition; Literature Resource Center; and Short Stories for Students, Vol. 6.
(The entire section is 69 words.)
Source: Short Story Criticism, ©2004 Gale Cengage. All Rights Reserved. Full copyright.