“COOL: SAN FRANCISCO & SHAKESPEARE”

“Angels and ministers of grace defend us.” — Hamlet, 1.4.39

First performed in 1606 for King James I, the tragic play Macbeth is more than 400 years old, yet its impact, like most all of William Shakespeare’s plays, resonates for the modern audience.

Still performed regularly by theater companies, the play packs a good deal of power, atmosphere, and theme into a rather short drama. It is in fact Shakespeare’s shortest tragedy and is believed to have been shaved to please the king (who wasn’t fond of epics).

Scholars have pored over its every line, dedicated years to the dissection of characters and motives, yet there’s always something new to learn of Macbeth. Indeed, from high school to West End to Broadway (see the 2008 adaptation from Chichester Festival Theatre), it remains one of the Bard’s most well-known and complex plays. It’s also cursed. Read the rest of this entry »

October in San Francisco sees a number of annual events make their return: The Bridge to Bridge Run, the Castro Fair, Italian Heritage Parade, Blessing of the Fish, and Fleet Week. In addition, there’s also the 75th anniversary of Coit Tower, a bluegrass festival in Golden Gate Park, and Love Fest - the largest dance-and-music event in the nation.

October 2-5
OCTOBERFEST BY the BAY
A celebration of Oktoberfest in the Bay Area. Check out this year’s new Saturday hours and what’s happening on “Gemutlichkeit Night.” Visit the official site.

October 3-5
HARDLY STRICTLY BLUEGRASS
Music in Golden Gate Park: bluegrass music that is. Speedway Meadows. Free to attend. Visit the official site.

October 4, starts at noon
4TH ANNUAL LOVEFEST
The largest dance-and-music celebration in the country. In 2007, a total 85,000 people participated, enjoying sun, music, and rhythm in the streets of San Francisco. The event will include live music, famed DJs, and various floats. The LoveFest parade starts on 2nd St @ Market and continues on to the Civic Center Plaza. Visit the official site.

October 4-5
AKI MATSURI
Japantown welcomes the fall with taiko drums, dancing, and games for all. Japantown (Post and Buchanan Sts). Free to attend. Visit the official site. Read the rest of this entry »

I remember this sonnet above all others. It was high school and I had to take a placement test for AP English (sophomore year). This was the poem we had to analyze.

It wasn’t until after we got the results back that the poem became clearer: Love can make everything seem better. Envy goes out the door and in its place, contentment: at the memory of a one true love.

Let’s take a closer look at this sonnet, line for line now. This is something I’d like to do with all of Shakespeare’s sonnets, beginning with Sonnet 29: “When in disgrace with fortune and men’s eyes” — how sad it starts. Analysis will follow the poem, after the jump. (I did get into the class by the way, *g*.)

When in disgrace with fortune and men’s eyes,
I all alone beweep my outcast state,
And trouble deaf Heaven with my bootless cries,
And look upon myself, and curse my fate,
Wishing me like to one more rich in hope,
Featur’d like him, like him with friends possess’d,
Desiring this man’s art, and that man’s scope,
With what I most enjoy contented least:
Yet in these thoughts myself almost despising,
Haply I think on thee,–and then my state
(Like to the lark at break of day arising
From sullen earth) sings hymns at heaven’s gate;
For thy sweet love remember’d such wealth brings
That then I scorn to change my state with kings’.

Read the rest of this entry »

A town that sells star maps and offers bus tours of celebrity homes, is a town that knows how to market itself, and Los Angeles is a place brimming with sights to see and places to visit. Though one may naturally think of glamour when thinking of L.A. , this is merely one aspect of it. Certainly its movie stars and celebrities can leave you star-struck, but its museums, historic homes, fabled avenues, and other attractions are just as dazzling, if not more.

In addition to the more well-known sites associated with Hollywood ’s past and present, try and visit some of Los Angeles’ cultural attractions as well. It’ll be well worth your time. Los Angeles is a huge city perceived by many to be superficial, but look deeper — there is much more to L.A. than first meets the eye.

Indeed, even in Hollywood , there is a great deal of history available and thanks to its attractions, open to discovery. The Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Capitol Records Tower, and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre date back to the 1960’s, 1950’s, and 1920’s respectively. When you visit any of these landmarks, you step a little closer to Old Hollywood, the glamorous standard by which present-day movie stars are compared.

Though one of Hollywood ’s newest attractions, the Hollywood & Highland complex is a must-see for all tourists, as it celebrates Old Hollywood while promoting the appeal of Hollywood today. The complex, named after Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue , is a spectacular sight for all, even for the locals. It features the Kodak Theatre (host of the Academy Awards), a choice selection of specialty shops, and a five-star, 22-story hotel in the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel. For those lucky enough to stay at this exclusive hotel, you’ll find everything, from city attractions to fine dining, within walking distance.

Another popular choice for tourists who wish to experience Hollywood is a studio tour, and both Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros. Studios offer them. These walking tours are informative but the chance of seeing a big-name celebrity is unlikely. However, being able to see a film studio up close is a thrill in itself. Of course, there’s also Universal Studios in the Valley ( San Fernando Valley ), which has created a theme park in Universal Studios Hollywood that truly highlights movie-making magic, with an emphasis on special FX.

For those who choose to leave Hollywood to the star-gazers, Los Angeles offers many other sights to see. From popular Chinatown to the majestic Queen Mary in Long Beach , L.A. attractions are as varied as they are beloved.

Los Angeles ‘ museums can be found throughout the city, each one dedicated to preserving the best in art, literature, and nature. Located in downtown L.A., the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is one of the city’s finest and is dedicated to American and European art from 1940 until today. For those in search of world art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the place to visit. Since its opening in 1966, this museum has amassed an impressive collection of more than 150,000 works. Take a tour and feast your eyes on masterworks from around the world, from paintings and sculpture to photos and prints.

In Pasadena, the Huntington Library is an inspiring destination. Along with the Huntington Gallery and Botanical Gardens, the library does its best to preserve past treasures. Visitors can marvel at the volumes of literary collections, which include first editions and the handwritten notes of famous authors. In the botanical gardens, a variety of gardens can be found, from a Japanese garden to a rose garden. Take time to enjoy them all.

The Westside is a distinguished part of Los Angeles where the affluent live, and certainly visiting this area can be a day trip all by itself. Neighborhoods, such as Bel-Air and Pacific Palisades, are found in the Westside and seeing the scale and beauty of these homes is something to experience. However, in addition to the opulence that characterizes this community, it is also home to two museums of importance: the Museum of Tolerance and The Getty Center. The latter opened in 1998 and houses an expanding collection of European fine art started by J. Paul Getty more than 70 years ago.

But if staying indoors isn’t your idea of an L.A. vacation, then perhaps Santa Monica , Venice , or Long Beach would be better destinations. The Boardwalk in Venice is a great place to enjoy the California sunshine, as well as shopping, bicycling, and people-watching. Here you’ll find a unique mix of street entertainers, both professional and amateur. Santa Monica Pier is also a fun destination for those wanting to stay outdoors. The pier features a carousel, free concerts in the summer, and souvenir shops in a totally laid-back setting. In Long Beach , the Aquarium of the Pacific is a great choice for families. The Aquarium is dedicated to marine life from the Pacific Ocean and also maintains an aviary for bird lovers.

Located close to Wilshire Boulevard is the famed Farmers Market and The Grove, a market and shopping district on the corner of Third and Fairfax . An entire day or two can be spent here, experiencing what it must be like to be a local of Los Angeles . With more than 100 stalls and over 20 restaurants to choose from, plus a variety of retail stores, the Market and The Grove are excellent places to just hang out, people-watch, and relax.

Though some may perceive Los Angeles as being more surface than substance, a closer look is all that’s needed to find that that simply isn’t so. When visiting the city, consider some of the sights beyond Hollywood , such as in Pasadena , Wilshire, and downtown L.A. Hotel location may be the biggest factor in determining what attractions you see, but just keep in mind that there is more to Los Angeles than glitz and glamour. With that being said, don’t miss seeing that Hollywood Sign!

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Men’s fashion magazines, such as Details and GQ, have always placed an emphasis on looking good. However now more than ever, part of that look involves jewelry. From the traditional watch to the versatile pendant, men’s jewelry has begun to move beyond the expected and more towards the unique, the classic, tough, and stylish, with cues being taken from athletes, celebrities, and bikers alike.

Regarding this recent boom, it’s good news for both the jewelry and retail industries, as it opens the door to new styles, designs and opportunities for a niche that’s been waiting to turn the corner for some time now. Thanks to a number of factors, jewelry sales for men have increased over the past few years, with signs pointing to a continuing trend. So much so that designers are now creating lines specifically “for” men, with the confidence that there is a buying audience out there – a consumer base that is widening and getting stronger. Factors that could explain this shift include:

• Media influence

• Men becoming more style-conscious
• A greater variety to choose from
• An overall younger market
• Women continuing to buy for their significant others

Gone are the days when cuff links and watches were all that was available for men as far as fashion. While these stylish standards remain a big part of the selection that’s out there, there are also now earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces, and pendants to choose from. Indeed, men’s fashion is becoming more varied, with men themselves making purchases and becoming more conscious of their style and the image they project. Bracelets for instance, have become almost as common as watches, thanks to new, masculine designs made of wood, shell and alternative metals, ranging from gold and platinum to anodized aluminum. Designers are mixing and matching materials into fashionable takes that work with corporate looks as well as more casual ensembles. The versatility of designs has emerged as a selling point.

Men’s stainless steel jewelry remains popular, even with the rise of the alternative metals. Again, it provides a look a strength that is always attractive for men. From cuff links to dog tags, stainless steel is often used in combination with complementary metals, such as white gold and sterling silver. Muted gemstones are also an element of design that’s being employed with more regularity. In addition, new designs have been inspired by the past, as the time-tested has suddenly become hip and modern. Some designer trends you might be seeing:

• Biker and/or motorcycle jewelry

• Skull and crossbones jewelry
• Bracelets as fashions musts
• Pendants, such as dog tags, growing in popularity
• Earrings an accessory for men as much as women

Last year, in due part to the popularity of Pirates of the Caribbean, skull and crossbones motifs entered the fashion realm for both men and women, emerging in the forms of scarves, jackets, ties, shirts, and of course, jewelry. However, a bit of research reveals that motorcycle jewelry has featured skulls, crossbones, serpents, and iron crosses for years. The biker niche has always been one to embrace men’s jewelry, with the aforementioned symbols of power, danger, and strength being key to their appeal. Only now the motifs have entered into pop culture, making them more readily available and in styles and designs that are perhaps less harsh and thus, wearable anytime.

What made the Pirates trend so widespread was the fact that skull designs were being incorporated in ways that were almost “cute,” such as a crossbones scarf or a skull charm. While this trend is likely to fade as the movie turns out its final installment in 2007, the presence of skull jewelry for men should remain a factor in fashionable selection for years to come. Now that it has been introduced into designer lines, the look should continue to flourish. This being said, bikers, goths, and punk rockers should certainly be credited as being the originators of the symbolic design, with skull, crossbones, and knives being linked to rebel and outlaw personas. Today, standards in skull jewelry, such as skull rings, pendants, and buckles, are complemented by wrist links, chunky chains, and even earrings.

Speaking of biker jewelry, this category continues to expand, with necklace chains, pendants, bracelets, and earrings being just the tip. Traditionally made of sterling silver, gold and stainless steel, modern biker jewelry also makes use of titanium, aluminum, and other solid materials. Turquoise, onyx, and amber are often crafted into designs as well. Today, fashion designers have picked up on the masculine designs of biker and motorcycle jewelry, creating lines of their own that would appeal to both the hard-core biker and Casual Friday worker.

Indeed, the range of men’s jewelry has exploded to be versatile and inclusive. Media has played a role in the boom, as outlets such as YouTube and of course cable, have made our culture as a whole more conscious of what we wear and what we look like. What image do we project? Men, as much as women, have begun to emulate their idols. From athletes to entertainers, Joe Public is taken his cue from the celebrity.

Take a look at a sports star’s press conference and chances are you’ll see him decked out in his best threads, with the finishing touch being a rope chain, a stainless-steel dog tag, titanium bangle, or pair of earrings. Diamond studs are no longer exclusive to women. No, men’s diamond earrings can be purchased from any jeweler, as can gold hoop earrings for men. These styles have become unisex with men styling their own “bling” for all to see. The more snazzy the outfit, the more accessorized the man.

In the past, women were the primary buyers of men’s jewelry, as they attempted to add a bit of style to their significant other’s wardrobe. Today however, men are looking for such additions themselves, thanks to the influence of television, marketing, and magazines.

In summary, while trends such as the pirate look may come and go, the boom in men’s jewelry appears to be one with staying power, which is welcomed news for retailers. The decision by designers to create lines specific for men is one sign of the positive shift. Another is the fact that the market is being impacted by younger buyers, who might be more willing to take on fashion “risks” and in the end, set the new standards for style.

* Originally written for AlluringMoon.com.

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Durable, elegant and totally luxurious, platinum is precious metal prized for its rarity, strength, and flawlessness. Heavier than gold or silver, it’s been used in important jewelry since the late 1800s and in the past decade, has enjoyed a marked resurgence in popularity. Its unique white luster and sophisticated, polished look complements the brilliance of diamonds best and is currently, the favored metal to hold such stones. Used in the most beautiful of weddings sets, platinum is also the foundation for the most exquisite of body art jewelry.

In due part to its beauty, heft, and expert craftsmanship, platinum is clearly a wise investment: one for a lifetime. While a new piercing will naturally be done with surgical stainless steel (SSS), once you’re set for a permanent look, then it’s time to look at what else is available on the market.

While body jewelry ranges from silver to gold to titanium, the standout pieces you’ll find are made of platinum. The rareness of the metal makes every piece more special and more carefully conceived, knowing that this is only one of a handful in existence. Diamond belly rings set in platinum are made with the same attention to detail as a custom engagement ring, and while one may see the acquisition of such jewelry as an indulgence, it should also be regarded a considered purchase: in a work of art.

Indeed, while platinum’s price tag may be high, it can never be regarded as a poor investment. As you’ll learn, one of the virtues of platinum is how pure it is, mixing with only a few other alloys. Out of all the precious metals, it is the only one that is 90%-95% pure.

Consequently, it is also a particularly good choice for those who are hypoallergenic or allergic to metals, especially nickel. Platinum doesn’t corrode, rust or tarnish. Quite simply, it doesn’t diminish in value. Ever. Thus, the metal not only affords you luxurious appeal, but also practicality, which doesn’t often get associated with a once-in-a-lifetime purchase.

In platinum’s case however, such a stamp fits.

Notes: Only 1/3 of the mined platinum in the world is used for jewelry, upping the rarity of every piece all the more. … Platinum is twice as heavy as silver and approximately 1.4 times heavier than 18k gold. Its dense composition, which only gets heavier when mixed with an alloy, requires great designer skill. … To keep platinum clean and restore its timeless luster, simply mix a few drops of detergent in water and use a soft toothbrush to brush away any dirt. Voila!

* Originally written for AlluringBody.com.

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Vienna is a city where old blends perfectly with the new. Where the timeless coexists with the modern. This is where the waltz was born, but also where electronica thrives. Indeed, there’s a reason why they say Vienna is “hot and cold, loud and soft, expected and unexpected.”

The capital of Austria, Vienna is also the country’s largest state; its political, economic, and cultural center; and former seat of the Habsburgs. Moving outward from the historic “Ring,” you’ll find Vienna full of beauty and heritage. While no longer home to a royal empire, Vienna clearly remains committed to “the good life.”

Ask the locals. They’ll tell you so. And one look around this European jewel, you’ll understand why too Vienna is known the world over for its quality of life. In fact, in 2008, Mercer ranked the Austrian capital #2 in that category (second only to Zurich, Switzerland).

• Schonbrunn Palace: Designed by the von Erlachs, the Baroque palace and its 1,441 rooms was a summer home for the Habsburgs. See the Gloriette in the Imperial Gardens, the stunning State Apartments, and Palace Theater and Carriage Museum on the grounds.

• St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom): Dating back to the 12th century, this basilica is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. See the South Tower, standing 445 feet tall; the pulpit of St. Stephen’s; and the carved Wiener Neustadt altarpiece (c. 1447). [Trivia: Mozart was married here in 1782 and had his funeral in December 1791.]

• Schatzkammer: The Imperial Treasury, protecting a thousand years of treasures, including Charlemagne’s saber, the Holy Lance, and the crown jewels of the Holy Roman Empire and Habsburg Empire. The collection is highlighted by the imperial crown (c. 962).

• Museum of Military History: The city’s oldest state museum, the Heeresgeschichtliches Museum is located in the center of the Arsenal and was built with plans by Ludwig Foerster and Theophil Hansen. It features five main sections delineating the military history of the Habsburg Empire.

• Burgtheater: The Austrian National Theater known by the locals as “die Burg.” The theater itself dates back to 1741, was moved in 1888, and after World War I, was restored in the mid-1950s. Today, it stands as the dream stage for German theater.

• Spanish Riding School: Home to the magnificent Lipizzans. Located in the Vienna Imperial Palace, the school is the oldest institution in the world devoted to classic dressage. Guided tours are offered year-round, alternating between the Winter and Summer riding schools, and the Renaissance-designed Stalburg (stables).

• Riesenrad: The second-largest Ferris wheel in the world (behind London’s “Eye”) and one of 250 attractions at Vienna’s Prater Amusement Park, located in the 2nd district of the capital. The Riesenrad was built in 1897 to commemorate the golden jubilee of Franz Josef I.

• Volksgarten: Known as “The People’s Garden,” the Volksgarten is perfect for a stroll. Built in 1820, it was designed to resemble Paris’ Luxembourg garden.

• Hundertwasser House Vienna: An apartment house in Vienna designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. An example of the “modern” Vienna, built between 1983-1986.

• And Music: Vienna brought the world the waltz, as well as some of its most famed operas. Think Mozart, Beethoven, and Mahler. During the summer, experience Strauss and Mozart in the park. Try and attend a performance at the State Opera. Book in advance to hear the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

During your visit, it might be difficult to decide what to see first and what to experience next. To help, consider the 10 attractions above to get you started. Each should also branch out to other possibilities. Vienna is full of them!

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Landlocked in Central Europe, Austria is surrounded by several other countries like Switzerland, Germany, and Italy that make travel a snap. Tourists can make Austria part of a multi-country tour or travel there specifically to holiday in its beautiful countryside and historic towns.

Known as an alpine country, the famed Alps of Austria actually only cover about half of its landscape. Nonetheless, skiing in Austria is a favorite among visitors and locals alike. Many travel to Austria for the skiing alone, with an ample supply of cozy ski resorts found throughout. Indeed, winter sport tourism thrives in Austria, with peak travel times traditionally being from Christmas to January 2nd and all of February. Other outdoor adventures that tourists enjoy are hiking and cycling – both refreshing ways to travel and take in a scenic journey.

As for where to go in Austria, there are plenty of choices, with historic cities Vienna, Salzburg, and Linz always high on travel checklists. In 2008, the European Football Championships (Euro 2008) will see football fans from the world over travel to Austria and Switzerland to attend the tourney. The Austria cities of Innsbruck, Klagenfurt, and the aforementioned Vienna and Salzburg will all host matches. However, though football might bring the fans to Austria, it shouldn’t be their only memory, as Austria offers great food and drink, beautiful scenery, unique shopping, and quite simply, a wonderful travel experience.

To travel to Austria is to step into one of the safest countries in the world – a luxury that’s afforded all. For instance, in Austria, it’s not uncommon to knock on the door of a country farmhouse to ask if a room is available. Even if they don’t have one, they’ll make sure you won’t have to travel very far to find a place to rest. The people of Austria are characteristically friendly, even if somewhat reserved. One thing to remember when you travel to this European gem is to mind your manners. Courtesy in a foreign country is always advisable, but in Austria, it’s easily inspired by those you meet.

Travel to and from cities is best done by train, but to explore the Austria countryside, renting a car for a few days is a smart travel idea. Keep in mind that credit cards aren’t used as frequently in Austria as in other European countries you might travel to, though debit cards are accepted most everywhere. Travel light when exploring the cities, towns, and rural sights, but be sure to bring along the essentials: visa or photo ID, money, and maps. Austria is a beautiful country, but like anywhere, you wouldn’t want to travel and get lost in it. Fortunately, travel in the Austrian Alps is such a popular pastime, there are a good number of marked trails, as well as mountain shelters; not to mention the many other hikers and mountain-climbers to ask travel directions from.

If you travel to Austria, it would help a great deal to learn a few common German words/phrases, as 99% of the people speak the language. And finally, remember that the currency of Austria is the Euro (€), so when you do travel there, make sure to account for the proper conversion rate.

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So, your new puppy’s home. And he’s now getting used to you and his new environs. He’s sniffing, looking around, slipping and sliding as he runs across the floor. He’s having a blast!

However, keep in mind that while there’s certainly time for fun and games to mark the arrival of this cuddly new addition, there also needs to be time for rules and training. In order to forge a sublime relationship between you and your new pup, you’ll need to find time to train him in the dos and don’ts of living in his new digs.

This being said, training can be a blast too, for both of you. It’s certainly a proven way to bond. For most dog owners, training begins with housebreaking. This is a must for every pup and can take up to six weeks or more to really grab hold. Once it does though, you’ll be set. There’s always that breakthrough moment when you realize: “gosh, he’s got it!”

To achieve this, there are a few methods to try. Each varies, depending on factors like the amount of time spent away from home and the size of your pup. A constant however for all methods is that positive reinforcement is the best way to get through. Every puppy wishes to please and every time you offer praise, it will up his desire to duplicate that moment. Patience and praise. Give your puppy lots of both. Along with of course, tons o’ love.

* Originally written for MyHollywoodPets.com.

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When you get a new puppy, one of the first things to do is begin housebreaking him. A puppy’s day is very much about eating, playing, and… eliminating. In the early going, he’ll simply be a boundless ball of energy and it will take time and patience to work with him to understand that there’s a correct place to “go” and a wrong one.

However, it’s imperative that you never scold should he choose the “wrong” spot from time to time. Expect setbacks along the way, but be confident that your puppy is brilliant and that he’ll get it soon enough. The best way to help him is to praise him each and every time he goes in the correct spot. He’ll be thrilled and will associate that place/spot with all good things.

Keeping an eye on your pup
As for housebreaking methods, today, we’ll talk about a scenario in which you’re able to stay with your puppy at all times. The most obvious advantage of this is that you’ll be able to keep an eye on him, and more times than not, help him get to the “correct” spot(s).

When in the house, consider keeping your puppy on a leash in the beginning to ensure you can lead him outdoors when it’s time. Since you’re a constant for him, watch his behavior. If he begins to circle, recognize this as him preparing to eliminate. Lead him outside and when he does relieve himself, enthusiastically praise him for doing so. He’ll quickly begin to make the connection. Also, try establishing a word-association. When he eliminates, repeat a word like “outside.”

To further encourage your pup, take him outdoors regularly. Create a routine for him. Let him out after he eats, drinks water, wakes up, has a play session, or sniffs around. Once outdoors, let him explore and find an elimination spot of his choosing. As you guide him, let him feel as though he’s guided you.

Early development
In a puppy’s early development, note that he won’t yet have firm control over his bowel or bladder until about six months. As a result, he’ll need to go more often than an adult dog. On average, a puppy will need to relieve himself (at least) 6-8 times a day.

Thus, if you’re able to be with your pup all day/night, it’s important to take this time to create various routines for him. This goes for his eating, play time, and even the door he walks through to get outside. All of these will help create order in your puppy’s new world and lead him to establishing good habits, like knowing when it’s time to go “outside.”

* Originally written for MyHollywoodPets.com.

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