Haines His Way

Archives => Archive 2 => Topic started by: bk on May 19, 2004, 12:00:55 AM

Title: SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 12:00:55 AM: Well, you've read the posts, you've been surprised, surprised, you know what we're celebrating and you know the topic, so there is only one surprise left: Post, until the cows come home.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 12:17:10 AM: BON ANNIVERSAIRE, FRANCOIS!

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/party/party-smiley-020.gif)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 12:35:35 AM: HBDRF! (That's Happy Birthday Dear Reader Francois, in Internet lingo.)

A couple of questions for our esteemed BK and all the Hainesies and Kimlets: How tall are you? And, if you had a choice, would you rather be taller than you are now, or shorter?

For myself, I'm six foot two inches. But I wouldn't have minded being taller. The way I figure, it's hard enough finding clothes that fit now, so I might as well go for the jackpot!

(Der Brucer is six foot even, or that's what he says. I think he's averaging up.)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 01:33:36 AM: [font="courier new"]HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR
FRANCOIS!![/font]

My question for ASK BK day:

Did you BK personally experience any of Mr William Castle's gimmicks: Emergo and/or The Tingler - or did you hold thumbs up for MR SARDONICUS?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Dave in the valley on May 19, 2004, 03:58:55 AM: Another question for ask BK day: When you were on a famous TV show with the rock band America, what song did they play?

Dave
(Have I asked this question before, or have I just wanted to ask it forever? Is it even a valid question? Help me BK!)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 04:33:54 AM: Good morning, all! One bath, one cup of coffee, and I'm feeling rather groggy. I need to organize myself this morning: Mickey & Judy proofing, which is turning into an ordeal because the copyist was so lousy, maybe some Eubie Blake from 1940, then a lot of work on this June concert for the New York City Gay Men's Chorus which is behind schedule.

I,m looking forward to Goodspeed, if only to get out of New York in June and July; it's already muggy here, and I don't know if the promised rain happened last night or not. If I had my druthers, I'd druther have cold and humidity than warm and humidity. I already feel like I need another bath, and I've been out of the tub, what?, thirty minutes!

So, I have no questions this morning, no answers, and I'm feeling aimless, but I might later. Que sera sera.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Michael on May 19, 2004, 04:45:09 AM: Happy Birthday Francois
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Michael on May 19, 2004, 04:45:20 AM: Welcome Back Jason
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Michael on May 19, 2004, 04:49:14 AM: Dear: DR Panni

I think DOOL actress Peggy McKay was being McCoy. On this Friday's episode the "BIG TWIST" is revealed and everyone who was murdered by Marlana (sp) is revealed to be alive. First shown is Frances Reid who will later in the day be receiving a lifetime Emmy award. Producer/writer (whose name i don't remember) worked it out that she is shown to be alive as he said that he did want her to be dead when she accepted her Emmy.

Unfortunatly the same can't be said for Anna Lee.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Michael on May 19, 2004, 04:53:50 AM: What was is like working with Don Knotts and Tim Conway on The Apple Dumpling Gang? Any amusing stories?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Michael on May 19, 2004, 04:55:34 AM: When you were filming Raquet did you know how bad the film was going to be? How did the other established actors like Phil Silvers feel about being in the film?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Michael on May 19, 2004, 04:57:02 AM: From the time you recorded the cast album of Stages to your most recent trip to the studio. What has been the most significant changes in the recording process?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Michael on May 19, 2004, 05:00:23 AM: When you would film at studios like Paramount, the Columbia Ranch and others. Which had the most "history" for you? Would you walk around the backlots and visit the standing sets from the films of your youth? Did it spoil the magic for you or did it enhance it?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 05:23:27 AM: Oh, my! So many things to talk about. First (and second)

Happy (cause I saw it first in the notes before I read the rest of the Tuesday posts)

Welcome

Birthday

Back

François

Jason

As I mentioned early in the posts yesterday, I'm a Crunchy man. And peanut butter on toast is GREAT, especially in the morning with a cup of hot coffee and half a ruby red grapefruit.

A grilled cheese sammy and a bowl of cream of tomato soup (especially on a rainy day). Umm, umm, umm.

Yes, Jose, It's All Relative did get cancelled. Also cancelled was Married to the Kellys. Anthony really liked that show (I was middling about it). I think he related to the fact that it was about an only child from New York who marries a bright, perky girl from the Midwest (I guess that would be moi) who has a big family and how he adapts to that new life.

I need to get a haircut (more than one actually - cut hairs that is). A short summer bob (or Fred or Arnold).

I am becoming addicted to Spider Solitaire. It comes with Windows XP.

I am 5ft 3in and proud of every inch (go to town TCB).

Actually, I am happy with my height. There were times when I was performing when it was irritating, especially when boneheads said things like, "you were so good, but you're just too short".

I guess I needed to go to California where they can adjust camera angles and put you on boxes to hide things like height.

I might have mentioned this before, but in college another short actor (female) friend and I formed a company, (which started as a joke but we actually did 3 productions), called TOTS or Theatre Of The Short. Our press release mentioned shows like Chekov's lost classic, The Short Sisters, Frank Loesser's special re-write of How to Succeed in Business Without Being Tall, For Short Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Ladder Is Enuf, King Richard the Short, and on and on. The real shows we did were The Apple Tree (I LOVE that show), Mrs. Dally Has a Lover (I actually got to play a romantic lead) and for the life of me, I can't remember the third show.

Anyway, I have come to terms with my height. It works for me and that's all that counts. Even though shopping for clothing is a difficult process (that's why I still have some clothes from 30 years ago, not because I'm a pack rat, but because the darn things still fit and they look good) and forget shoes. I'm in the rapidly disappearing size range of Mens 6. Try to find decent looking shoes in that size. Hah, I tell you! Hah! I can wear a unisex looking Womens 8 in tennis or track shoe but those are difficult to find also.

Enough of this. It's turning into the proverbial novella so I'll post and come back with my question later. And I actually have a question today. I'm so verbose. What's gotten into me?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 05:40:20 AM: OK, here is my question (actually it's a convoluted question with more than one buried deep inside)

Question for BK and Panni and Charles (and any others who want to chime in - I mention Panni and Charles because they are screenwriters/writers as well).

Having been on a theatre binge lately, trying to see as many of the shows as I can before the Tonys (June 6th, CBS 8pm-11pm), I began to wonder about the difference between playwrights and screenwriters. More specifically, why do you think playwrights have more control over their work in the theatre than screenwriters do in film? I know that if a playwright is unhappy with a production, he can pull the show. That can't happen in a movie, right? They will just replace the screenwriter and it goes to arbitration as to who gets final credit, right? Is it because the movie studio and/or producer own the rights to the movie and they have ultimate say about what is written? I know there are unions for both playwrights and screenwriters. Is there a big difference between the two organizations (Screenwriters Guild of America and Dramatists Guild). Does Dramatists Guild have any influence outside of New York and Broadway? This is turning into more than one question and it seems rather convoluted to me. If you can figure out my questions and feel like answering, please do so.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jennifer on May 19, 2004, 05:56:53 AM: Happy Birthday DR Francois!!!!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jennifer on May 19, 2004, 05:58:44 AM: Oh no, I'm just reading last night's posts and now all I can think about is egg McMuffins. :)

Welcome back DR Jason. We've missed you!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jennifer on May 19, 2004, 06:05:08 AM: I'm 5' 3 1/2. You gotta add that half! :)

Re: last night's American Idol

I LOVED Diana's last song. I know Clive Davis chose his own songs (I believe). But he did a GREAT job choosing songs.

I also really loved Fantasia's last song. She is so emotional and seems to be able to really feel everything she sings.

But I will agree with MattH from last night. The judges totally praised Fantasia, and have basically announced her as the winner.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Dan (the Man) on May 19, 2004, 06:11:09 AM: [move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Joyeux anniversaire au tu,[/move]
[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Joyeux anniversaire au tu,[/move]
[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Joyeux anniversaire cher François,[/move]
[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Joyeux anniversaire au tu![/move]

Question for BK and all other restaurant-goers: How comfortable do you feel about asking for something that's not on the menu? Are there places where you do this all the time or other places where you would not even dare?

Height-wise, I am 6'1". I sprouted up fairly early, and up until high school I tended to slouch slightly probably because I was embarassed by my size. High school was a relief in that the other guys caught up with me. I still slouched, though, and it wasn't until my first acting teacher got his hands on me in college that I finally straightened up and stood tall. Today I would say that I'm comforatable with my height, thought I would admit that I am somewhat startled when I meet someone who is taller.

DR Panni (and other game-sters) check out www.snood.com (http://www.snood.com). Snood is my favorite waste of time.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 06:18:07 AM: DR Panni and JR - Thank you SO MUCH for introducing me to BookWorm. How I will get ANY work done today is now beyond my frame of comprehension. I am currently at 19,690. Using those flaming tiles has become an obsession. If I get fired, it's on your heads ;)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 06:38:15 AM: LOL - I got over 40,000!

I just watched THE FIRST NUDIE MUSICAL documentary again....and the movie. That John Smithee is SOME dancer!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 06:54:23 AM: Right now I'm at 43,550
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Matt H. on May 19, 2004, 06:57:30 AM: Happy Birthday, DR. Francois!!

I am 6' even. Seems to have worked well for me. Can't really say I've ever really wanted to be any taller or any shorter. My older brother is about an inch taller.

I have no clue who the final two will be tonight on AMERICAN IDOL. Obviously we've learned that you can't go by performance. And you can't go by judges' reactions. That's the biggest surprise of this year's show: its utter unpredictability.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 06:58:56 AM: Good morning, all. I can't believe I'm actually up at this hour...remember the good old days when I wouldn't get to bed until 6 or 7 in the a.m.? Ahh...Memories...light the corners of my mind...

All this talk of Egg McMuffins makes me want a sausage biscuit with egg and hash browns. McDonald's breakfast used to be such a treat...I suppose it still is, though it makes me sick from all the grease now. So here I sit, eating my blueberry muffin from the local Dunkin Donuts, drinking my first glass of water for the day and thinking, GEEZ! I wish I had some real food. As you may have gathered by now, I've started watching what I eat. I've also joined...are you ready for this, Dear Readers?...a gym! It's just the YMCA, but it's a gym nonetheless. I've been going for a month and a half now and though I can't tell you how much weight I've lost (I avoid scales) I can tell you that my clothes either fit properly now or they're entirely too big. Now, you may be asking yourself, "But, Jason...when do you find the time?!?" Well, Dear, Inquisitive Reader, that's a good question and I wish I could answer it. Actually, I've been hitting the gym between the hours of 11 p.m. and 1 a.m., primarily because that's the only time I've had to get there. After forty-five minutes on the stairmaster, I can tell you with all certainty that it is nearly impossible to get to sleep, but somehow I manage. I've all but given up sodas, which has been the most difficult part for me, and I've altered my portion sizes. When I can, I choose baked or grilled over fried and I hardly ever eat a whole bag of Peanut M&Ms in one sitting anymore. ;-) I haven't told my parents--I want to surprise them when I go home in July--so I'm excited to find out if they notice a difference.

What else? Hmm... Oh, yes...the summer. Obviously, if I'm going home for a week in July, I'm not doing summerstock this year. I auditioned like a madman and still got nothing, which is part of what prompted the change in my food regiment. I'm going to take this summer, however, to reshape, rebuild and refine myself into a lean, mean singing/acting machine and by next summer people will be falling all over themselves to hire me for their seasons. In the meantime, I've decided to take a full-time receptionist job here at MTI so that I can afford to take classes and send out mailings and pay off my credit card and all that jazz. The position becomes officially available in September, and according to the figures my accountant gave me at tax time, I'll make double what I made last year AND I'll have health benefits (finally). I'm going to technically commit to one year...if I get an acting job that would merit my quitting, I can do that--if not, then I guess I'll stay on until something better rolls around. Did I mention I'll get paid vacation days as well as personal and sick days? Well, I will. It's the only logical choice to make right now, and I think it's a good one.

Theatre I've seen in the last few months: I got to see Luciano Pavarotti's final performance in TOSCA at the Met. I saw BOMBAY DREAMS. I'm seeing CAROLINE, OR CHANGE next weekend as well as the closing of GYPSY next Sunday afternoon, the new cast of 42nd STREET (shall I send my love to Shirley and Patrick, BK?), and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (this will, God love me, make the third time since February). I've seen BEAUTY AND THE BEAST twice this season (again, God love me) and I'm eagerly anticipating the day I get a rush ticket to ASSASSINS, since I haven't seen it yet. I really want to see RAISIN IN THE SUN since I've heard such wonderful things about Audra, Phylicia and Sanaa Lathan. SIXTEEN WOUNDED, I thought, was a wonderfully written show, and even though the show itself sort of bored me, I though Jefferson Mays was brilliant in I AM MY OWN WIFE. ANNA IN THE TROPICS was pretty decent and I finally got to see Matthew and Nathan in THE PRODUCERS. TABOO frightened me, but I thought the score was enjoyable in a 80's-retro kind of way. The new production of DON GIOVANNI at the Met was splendid (I have new-found admiration for Rene Pape--he was a wonderful Leporello) and I worked way too many performances of Wagner's RING to find any of the beauty in it. GOTTERDAMMERUNG (the fourth and final installment of DER RING) is six hours long. SIX HOURS OF NOTHING HAPPENING!! I was amazed by the number of people who saw THE RING all three times all the way through. I don't have the patience for Wagner's self-indulgence, but more power to 'em if they can stay awake for all of that mess.

Gosh, I'm rambling. I think I'll quit now and see what's going on with the rest of you...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 07:22:40 AM: DR Ben - Good question, but I'll chime in later with my version of the answer. My mind isn't working yet because I was up until 3 AM playing BookWorm. Score before I burned down the library: 98,750. (Very frustrating - I wanted to reach 100,000.)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: William E. Lurie on May 19, 2004, 07:26:57 AM: Welcome back Jason. I've missed the disagreements we've had in the past.

For Ask BK Day---
I was listening to your recording of the York's MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG the other day, and as I was reading the credits on the back cover, I noticed that Jim Morgan was credited twice for set design. Was this contractual or was it the only error I've ever found in the notes/credits on a BK-produced CD?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 07:31:44 AM: WEL which song on the Genevieve EP did you like the best?

DRJASON congratulations on your gym resolve! Would that we all could do it.

DRPANNI I just burned down the library at 42,290! It is my goal to hit 50,000 sometime today.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Matt H. on May 19, 2004, 07:40:01 AM: DR Jason, it sounds as if you've done some wonderful planning for your future and are on your way to making things happen. Good for you!

Mulling over my DVD choices for this afternoon. I think it will either be one of the new Marilyn Monroe DVDs that feature her in small supporting roles (AS YOUNG AS YOU FEEL probably) or THE GREAT DICTATOR. Those are strange bedfellows for sure!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 07:57:00 AM: I'm at 66,750 right now and like Panni, I'm aiming for 100,000
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 07:59:14 AM: GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

DRMATTH both good choices! I always get AS YOUNG AS YOU FEEL confused with LOVE NEST!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Matt H. on May 19, 2004, 08:06:34 AM: Well, one of them has the wonderful Monty Wooley which is why I'll probably go with AS YOUNG AS YOU FEEL over LOVE NEST. Hopefully, it'll look as good as MONKEY BUSINESS from the last boxed set.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Emily on May 19, 2004, 08:25:43 AM: I take a few days off from the posting and reading at HHW and I miss SANDWICH DAY?!? Note to self: never take a day off.

Question for DRs Michael Shayne and Jennifer: I know both of you are current or former West Islanders. Have you ever been to Smoked Meat Pete's inbetween Saint-Anne de Bellevue and Dorion? The guy who owns it used to be a partner in Schwartz's and I personally think their sandwiches better than what you can find on the Main. You should defintely check the place out if you can.

Mucho yum.

Happy Birthday François and Welcome Back Jason!!! :D
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: JoseSPiano on May 19, 2004, 08:47:19 AM: Good Morning!

Just remember, DR Jason, if you want to lose 16 pounds in 11 days, do what I did... Come down with two bacterial infections at the same time, and take up to five antibiotics that will upset your stomach like nothing else has before.. and Voila!! -NOT!!!!

-So, I guess now more Galaxy bars for you?!?! :-X

Well, I did my Pilates, had my bowl of cereal, and started a load of laundry - I'm really liking the "results" I get with the Woolite for dark clothes, just perfect for all my "pit blacks". And now...

Questions for BK - and/or other DRs:

Hershey's Syrup, Quik, and/or Ovaltine?

With or without Almonds?

Rye: with or without caraway seeds?

Original Recipe or Extra Crispy?

-I'll try to come up with some non-food related questions later...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 08:52:29 AM: Jose: Thanks but no thanks on the bacterial infections. But I'll gladly break my own rules for a Galaxy bar every now and then. :-)

Almonds: I can take or leave 'em.

Rye: No, thank you. I'll take whole wheat.

Strawberry Quik and lots of it.

Original Recipe--white meat only.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jay on May 19, 2004, 08:53:02 AM: Quote from: JoseSPiano on May 19, 2004, 08:47:19 AM
Hershey's Syrup, Quik, and/or Ovaltine?

None of the above.

Only Fox's U-bet syrup will do.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ron Pulliam on May 19, 2004, 08:54:27 AM: On AI last night:

The judges seemed to have decided what they were going to say before the show started.

First, and least -- Jasmine was outclassed all night. Nothing she sang was remotely in the same class as the other two competitors.

Second -- Diana deGarmo's first song was a knockout. I know it, and the audience who she sang it to knew it. Randy gave one of his patented "bleh" responses, and the litany began, one after the other, as well-rehearsed as the singers. Simon felt compelled, however, to tell Diana to ignore the audience (i.e., the folks who would be voting and, potentially, buying records -- Simon has no regard at all for the public).

Fantasia was pretty good each time, although I thought her second song was far and away her best performance.

Diana has a greater range, and is far more flexible in the various musical genres, than any of the contestants we have seen.

Fantasia has a unique voice which makes it "seem" like she's doing unique takes on songs, but I'm not convinced anything she did last night was any more unique or original than Diana.

As MattH has said, the judges decided to do their annointing last night.

Unfortunately for them, the most vociferous was Simon, and backlash usually ensues.

Bottom line: It ain't over til it's over. There's one more week of competition and we don't know who will be competing.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 09:10:13 AM: Today, all over this great country of ours, thousands upon thousands of people will be losing their jobs. And the only two common denominators ever found, will be Guy Haines………..
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 09:10:55 AM: …… and Bookworm!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 09:14:12 AM: Happy Day Francios!
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/party/party-smiley-015.gif)

Hmmm...so many questions today. BK will be a busy guy!

Ok, this is my last day off. Must return to work tomorrow :-\
It was nice while it lasted!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Dan (the Man) on May 19, 2004, 09:15:37 AM: Quote from: JoseSPiano on May 19, 2004, 08:47:19 AM
Questions for BK - and/or other DRs:

Hershey's Syrup, Quik, and/or Ovaltine?

No Bosco or Cocoa Marsh? Then I take what is offered by Frau Blücher--[horses whinny]--and choose Ovaltine.

Quote
With or without Almonds?

Without

Quote
Rye: with or without caraway seeds?

With seeds!

Quote
Original Recipe or Extra Crispy?

I haven't liked the Colonel for years.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Matt H. on May 19, 2004, 09:17:08 AM: An interview with Simon in the NY TIMES has him predicting that Diana will inevitably win. He also had no love for LaToya London's attitude. He grugingly conceded that Clay Aiken did have talent, but that he wouldn't last two seconds at either a Clay or Diana concert. (And this is the man who brought us the Spice Girls?)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 09:19:55 AM: 1.) Quik

2.) Without nuts

3.) Either way. A rye is a rye is a rye

4.) Original without a doubt, but Barbecued is a close second
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 09:29:53 AM: I've been gathering a ton of new CDs lately...some of them of the tacky variety...and I've just been given a new demo to listen to: "The Screams of Kitty Genovese." I can't decide if it's a brilliant topic for a serio-dramatic musical or if it's simply a tacky travesty. I am, however, intrigued by the story.

I got one LAST week, however, that is the epitome of tacky travesties: PRINCESS DIANA THE MUSICAL. Yikes! I'm very much looking forward to getting my copy of UGH: THE CAVEMAN MUSICAL today from a co-worker, and then there's THE BLACK TULIP, which I recieved about a month ago. It's about the tulip madness that ran rampant through Holland in the late 1600's. Quite horrible, but delightfully so...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 09:36:32 AM: Quote from: Jason on May 19, 2004, 09:29:53 AM
I've been gathering a ton of new CDs lately...some of them of the tacky variety...and I've just been given a new demo to listen to: "The Screams of Kitty Genovese." I can't decide if it's a brilliant topic for a serio-dramatic musical or if it's simply a tacky travesty. I am, however, intrigued by the story.

I got one LAST week, however, that is the epitome of tacky travesties: PRINCESS DIANA THE MUSICAL. Yikes! I'm very much looking forward to getting my copy of UGH: THE CAVEMAN MUSICAL today from a co-worker, and then there's THE BLACK TULIP, which I recieved about a month ago. It's about the tulip madness that ran rampant through Holland in the late 1600's. Quite horrible, but delightfully so...

Some things never change. It is nice to know, Jason, that you are just as cute as always, and just as weird!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 09:37:48 AM: TCB - As I am my own boss, I have decided no to fire me for playing BookWorm on the company computer. I am also giving me a raise and sending me flowers for being such a loyal employee.
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/natur/nature-smiley-001.gif)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: JoseSPiano on May 19, 2004, 09:40:19 AM: Good Afternoon!

-I'm sorry if I left off some more regional/specialty choices of chocolate syrup. Which leads me to another question - which was sort of hinted at in the yesterday's posts/answers:

Is there one particular restaurant, road side stand, shack, etc., that serves one particular food item that would gladly go out of your way for to have whenever you are near it - or not near it?

For myself:

Chicago - Ann Sather's for those sticky, cinnamon buns. And/or a Chicago Beef from a couple of favorite places.

Richmond - Sally Belle's bakery for any of the wonderful cupcakes, and her ham salad sandwiches. And the Cinna-Bean (cinnamon ice cream with chocolate covered espresso beans) at Bev's Ice Cream.

DC area - The flourless chocolate waffle at the Carlyle Grand Cafe - although I wish they would bring back the macadamia brittle ice cream to accompany it. -Oh, and their appetizer of home-made potato chips topped with blue cheese and pesto - served warm!

New York - Hmmm... Tooooo many choices... But for right now, the "Snowy Chocolate" at Cones.

-I think we sort of covered this topic before... ah, well...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: William E. Lurie on May 19, 2004, 10:00:33 AM: JRand - "I Love Paris" which is the bedst song in the score. When I worked withg her she added it to SILK STOCKINGS.

***

A couple of things I read today. Considering they were in the NYPost they are probably not true:

1) Queen Latifah may star in the Broadway revival of MAME

2) Antonio Bandares will be returning to Broadway in a Yeston/Stone version of "Death Takes a Holiday"

3) None of the three hosts showed up for the NY screening of the Stritch documentary: Nathan Lane, Hugh Jackman or BK's close friend Steve Sondheim.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:00:42 AM: Quote from: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 12:35:35 AM
HBDRF! (That's Happy Birthday Dear Reader Francois, in Internet lingo.)

A couple of questions for our esteemed BK and all the Hainesies and Kimlets: How tall are you? And, if you had a choice, would you rather be taller than you are now, or shorter?

For myself, I'm six foot two inches. But I wouldn't have minded being taller. The way I figure, it's hard enough finding clothes that fit now, so I might as well go for the jackpot!

(Der Brucer is six foot even, or that's what he says. I think he's averaging up.)

I am five foot ten inches in my stocking feet. In just my feet I'm five foot ten inches also.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:02:17 AM: Quote from: JRand53 on May 19, 2004, 01:33:36 AM
[font="courier new"]HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR
FRANCOIS!![/font]

My question for ASK BK day:

Did you BK personally experience any of Mr William Castle's gimmicks: Emergo and/or The Tingler - or did you hold thumbs up for MR SARDONICUS?

I saw Haunted Hill and The Tingler on their original release, but the theaters I saw them in didn't have the gimmicks. I've never seen Sardonicus, although I have it on DVD and will catch up with it soon.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:04:10 AM: Quote from: Dave in the valley on May 19, 2004, 03:58:55 AM
Another question for ask BK day: When you were on a famous TV show with the rock band America, what song did they play?

Dave
(Have I asked this question before, or have I just wanted to ask it forever? Is it even a valid question? Help me BK!)

I don't recall being on a show with America, although, I suppose, they could have been one of the guests on Dinah Shore and Her New Best Friends. I do remember The Doobie Brothers and Paul Williams on the show. Were they on one of the Donny and Marie shows? I guess that's a possibility, too.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 10:04:27 AM: I am watching BILLIE in the awful MGM DVD pan and scan non stereo disk. And I remember that I really liked the movie when I saw it in the theatre....saw it a few times, bought the soundtrack....

Bobby Diamond and Warren Berlinger and Patty Duke. What a wonderful tale of gender confusion. Duke gives a wonderful performance. And as MR BK says Jane Greer is lovely as the mother and a perfect foil for Mr Jim Backus. The rest of the supporting cast is excellent as well....kind of a TV movie blown up on the big screen.

And yes there is Donna McKechnie dancing to beat the band. MR BK do you recognize any of the kids in the numbers from your class? I would imagine that you recognize several of the steps and combinations. And is David Winters among the dancers?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:06:16 AM: Quote from: Michael Shayne on May 19, 2004, 04:53:50 AM
What was is like working with Don Knotts and Tim Conway on The Apple Dumpling Gang? Any amusing stories?

I remember them being very nice and very funny. No real stories, though. I also loved working with John McGiver. I remember Tim Conway's license plate even now: 13 WEEKS or WKS, which was in honor of several TV series he was in that only lasted that amount of time.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:08:10 AM: Quote from: Michael Shayne on May 19, 2004, 04:55:34 AM
When you were filming Raquet did you know how bad the film was going to be? How did the other established actors like Phil Silvers feel about being in the film?

Yes, I had an inkling that it would be bad. The production was chaos, the director didn't know what he wanted to do and Convy was pretty much running things (not necessarily for the better, although I really liked him and he really liked me). I only worked with Convy and Tanya Roberts so I don't know how poor Phil felt.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:10:15 AM: Quote from: Michael Shayne on May 19, 2004, 04:57:02 AM
From the time you recorded the cast album of Stages to your most recent trip to the studio. What has been the most significant changes in the recording process?

Well, pro tools certainly - no tape and much easier to do fixes and punch-ins and to move things around. You do lose a little warmth and air in the actual recording, which I always try to put back in either the mix or the mastering process. The biggest change between Stages and the most recent trip is that at some point I learned what I was doing.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:12:50 AM: Quote from: Michael Shayne on May 19, 2004, 05:00:23 AM
When you would film at studios like Paramount, the Columbia Ranch and others. Which had the most "history" for you? Would you walk around the backlots and visit the standing sets from the films of your youth? Did it spoil the magic for you or did it enhance it?

Has anyone noticed that Michael Shayne is on a roll? Sadly, I was so immersed in just having a job and showing up to work prepared and professional, that I never realized just WHERE I was working. I worked quite a bit at the Ranch (all the Partridge Family shows were shot there), and Paramount, as well as Warners and Fox and Columbia on Gower - and today, of course, I would walk around and nose around, but back then I just didn't.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:16:26 AM: Quote from: Ben on May 19, 2004, 05:40:20 AM
OK, here is my question (actually it's a convoluted question with more than one buried deep inside)

Question for BK and Panni and Charles (and any others who want to chime in - I mention Panni and Charles because they are screenwriters/writers as well).

Having been on a theatre binge lately, trying to see as many of the shows as I can before the Tonys (June 6th, CBS 8pm-11pm), I began to wonder about the difference between playwrights and screenwriters. More specifically, why do you think playwrights have more control over their work in the theatre than screenwriters do in film? I know that if a playwright is unhappy with a production, he can pull the show. That can't happen in a movie, right? They will just replace the screenwriter and it goes to arbitration as to who gets final credit, right? Is it because the movie studio and/or producer own the rights to the movie and they have ultimate say about what is written? I know there are unions for both playwrights and screenwriters. Is there a big difference between the two organizations (Screenwriters Guild of America and Dramatists Guild). Does Dramatists Guild have any influence outside of New York and Broadway? This is turning into more than one question and it seems rather convoluted to me. If you can figure out my questions and feel like answering, please do so.

I'll leave most of this to Charles and Panni. I do know that screenwriters have no control over their work because the studio normally pays enormous sums to own it (or at least Guild minimums which is not chump change). They playwright (correct me if I'm wrong) normally does not get paid for his play by the producer - the money kicks in once the show is up and running from his weekly royalties. Therefore, the playwright retains control over his play - and is specifically protected that way by the Dramatists Guild, which is a whole different beast than the WGA.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:18:15 AM: Quote from: Dan (the Man) on May 19, 2004, 06:11:09 AM
[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Joyeux anniversaire au tu,[/move]
[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Joyeux anniversaire au tu,[/move]
[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Joyeux anniversaire cher François,[/move]
[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Joyeux anniversaire au tu![/move]

Question for BK and all other restaurant-goers: How comfortable do you feel about asking for something that's not on the menu? Are there places where you do this all the time or other places where you would not even dare?

The only time I order off the menu, and I do it frequently, is at Italian restaurants where I usually ask if they'll do me some carbonara. I've never been turned down.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:23:03 AM: Quote from: William E. Lurie on May 19, 2004, 07:26:57 AM

For Ask BK Day---
I was listening to your recording of the York's MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG the other day, and as I was reading the credits on the back cover, I noticed that Jim Morgan was credited twice for set design. Was this contractual or was it the only error I've ever found in the notes/credits on a BK-produced CD?

There are tons of errors in various booklets for CDs I've produced. We try, we really do, but something always seems to slip by. Looks like a stupid mistake to me, but since we usually used their credit billing block it may have been on their end, although we should have caught it. There were times when I was doing so many albums at one time that I just had to leave the proofing to others, a dangerous game.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 10:25:09 AM: For those of you who care (JRand, Panni, TCB) I am a Senior Librarian having just burned down my library with 149,270 points and my best word was Viper with a point total of 1,890. I got a Z burning tile that I could not use!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 10:26:24 AM: What is this BookWorm that you speak of? My curiosity is roused...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:27:13 AM: No, David is not among the dancers. I think I mentioned former Jet Bobby Banas among the dancers, but I didn't really recognize anyone else, although I'm sure we'd know them.

I was a Bosco man myself. I've never had Quik or Ovaltine or any of that stuff. I even stopped Bosco at an early age because I hated milk so much.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 10:27:20 AM: Happy Birthday, François!
[/color][/font][/size]

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/sehrgrosse/large-smiley-043.gif)

Many happy returns of the day.
[/font][/color][/size]
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:27:58 AM: Whatever happened to Free Cell?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:28:13 AM: Does anyone still wear a hat?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 10:33:09 AM: I got a burning "Qu" tile with nothing around it that I could use!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:35:50 AM: Welcome to our two newest registered users, Lisa and Elan. I remember Elan (and April) from the One From Column A days. Lisa is a mystery to me.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 10:37:15 AM: Firs of all, Happy Birthday to DR Francois! I meant to say that in my earlier post but I was thinking only of me.

DRJason, is THE BLACK TULIP based on the novel by Mr Alexandre Dumas, one of my favorite authors?

A question for all concerning this new PS Classics release of FINE AND DANDY: have any of you ordered it and listened to it? If so, how was it shipped to you? It's been 8 days now since I was told my copy was in the post, and I either have a lousy post office (I already knew that) or someone's walking it to Manhattan to me!

Dear Friend BK, I don't know about the WHERE'S CHARLEY? casting yet, but i've been invited to a party at the director's on Sunday night. Do you want to be my date?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: George on May 19, 2004, 10:38:34 AM: First of all, Happy Birthday, DR Francois!!

Secondly,
Quote from: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 12:35:35 AM
A couple of questions for our esteemed BK and all the Hainesies and Kimlets: How tall are you? And, if you had a choice, would you rather be taller than you are now, or shorter?

I'm 5' 9-1/2". I wouldn't mind being a little taller, but I'd definitely prefer to be a lot thinner. (I've gained weight since my "after" picture was taken ::).) So there.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 10:38:36 AM: Well, dang you all to heck and back! I am now addicted to this Bookworm game (beware Jason, beware).

Got as far as librarian with 102,530 points before the big fire! I believe my big word was vague. Don't recall how many points. But what a fun game. I must stop now and take a shower and continue my last day off.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jennifer on May 19, 2004, 10:40:13 AM: Re: American Idol

I would be stunned, shocked, and totally surprised if Jasmine did not leave this week. I think LaToya leaving will wake people up.

I do wish though that the judges weren't so one-sided towards Fantasia. But I suppose if she is their choice, then they should tell us.

I was a big surprised when Simon said that Jasmine should pack her bags. After last week (where he must have realized that his comments had a big impact on Jasmine staying) I thought he would be more careful.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: George on May 19, 2004, 10:41:29 AM: Quote from: Dan (the Man) on May 19, 2004, 06:11:09 AM
Question for BK and all other restaurant-goers: How comfortable do you feel about asking for something that's not on the menu? Are there places where you do this all the time or other places where you would not even dare?

I've never done this. I have to admit that I pretty much have only gone to restaurant chains where I wouldn't think that they would create something that they don't have. And I'm really not one to ask, either.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 10:41:35 AM: From Jose:

"Hershey's Syrup, Quik, and/or Ovaltine? With or without Almonds? Rye: with or without caraway seeds?
Original Recipe or Extra Crispy"

Ovaltine

With Almonds thank you

If I'm having Rye I prefer it with a splash of soda (lol). Actually, if I'm having rye I prefer no seeds but I would prefer wheat bread over rye

Original Recipe
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 10:42:14 AM: I don't know that it's based directly from the book THE BLACK TULIP by Alexandre Dumas (I've never read it), but it's entirely possible. I just know that the opening song, "Tulip Madness," is a hoot and a half...

"Tulip Madness!
Tulip Fever!
Tulip Madness!
Too-Lip Loo-nah-see!"

Elmore: Are you part of Goodspeed's production of WHERE'S CHARLEY? If so, in what capacity?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 10:43:20 AM: I am 5'11. Wouldn't mind being taller.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ron Pulliam on May 19, 2004, 10:45:15 AM: Heureux Anniversaire, François

Jrand53: Just remember! Billie's Got the Beat!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: George on May 19, 2004, 10:46:00 AM: Quote from: Jason on May 19, 2004, 06:58:56 AM
....and I worked way too many performances of Wagner's RING to find any of the beauty in it. GOTTERDAMMERUNG (the fourth and final installment of DER RING) is six hours long. SIX HOURS OF NOTHING HAPPENING!! I was amazed by the number of people who saw THE RING all three times all the way through. I don't have the patience for Wagner's self-indulgence, but more power to 'em if they can stay awake for all of that mess.

My dad loves Wagner's RING. I copied a set of the videos for him, a couple of years ago. Myself, I'd prefer the original cast recording of Das Barbecü (as produced by our very own BK) anytime!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 10:50:17 AM: Jason,

Here is the link to Bookworm. Go at your own risk. I found it addicting. You can play on line or download a copy and play off line. It's a word game and it's pretty self-explanatory. It takes a few seconds to load (it uses Java script). Enjoy

http://www.popcap.com/gamepopup.php?theGame=bookworm (http://www.popcap.com/gamepopup.php?theGame=bookworm)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 10:51:30 AM: Oh, my, I must do this. Forgive me. It's a pure vanity post.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:53:10 AM: Yes, elmoore, I will gladly be your date by proxy.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 10:53:25 AM: Yes she does RLP....the BEAT....and of course Patty has more of the BEAT in the long shots (and shots from the waist down) when someone else is dancing...but she has it nevertheless.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 10:54:56 AM: Ben, I'm glad you went past 100,000. Now I can stop trying to be the first to get there and relax.

As for the playwright/screenwriter question... One of the big differences between a screenplay and a play is that in films/TV there are so many middle men/women between the writer and the finished product. A film can be made much better (or worse) than it is by the editor, the cinematographer and half a dozen - or more - others (I'm not including the director and actors because their input applies to stage, as well, of course). Whenever someone compliments me on something I've written, the first thing I always say (after "thank you") is "It all came together well." That's not being modest - it's the truth. When that happy convergence of the perfect group for a particular film happens, it's a rare and glorious thing. With the stage, it's more straightforward. It's the words, the director, the actors (of course the lighting, costumes, etc make a big difference - but they serve the play, not make the play.)
That's the beginning of my thoughts, I have some things to do now, but will continue later, or maybe one of the others will say all that is necessary, and I won't have to.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: George on May 19, 2004, 10:59:04 AM: Questions for BK - and/or other DRs (from Jose):

Hershey's Syrup, Quik, and/or Ovaltine? I've never had Ovaltine.

With or without Almonds? Depends on my mood. Sometimes I feel like a nut, sometimes I don't.

Rye: with or without caraway seeds? Without...ALWAYS

Original Recipe or Extra Crispy? Neither, I prefer it on a bun and you don't get a choice.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 11:01:47 AM: Thanks for the answers MR BK!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: George on May 19, 2004, 11:03:41 AM: Quote from: JoseSPiano on May 19, 2004, 09:40:19 AM
Is there one particular restaurant, road side stand, shack, etc., that serves one particular food item that would gladly go out of your way for to have whenever you are near it - or not near it?

Thanks a whole bunch for making me think of it: now I have to go to Krispy Kreme. Yes, they're a chain, but they're pretty darned good...and only a half hour away!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 11:04:54 AM: Oh - before I get back to writing (NO MORE BOOKWORM!!) I'm 5'4" -- in shoes. In my bare feet, I still call myself 5'4'', so sue me (a GUYS AND DOLLS reference!).
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 11:16:42 AM: Quote from: Jason on May 19, 2004, 10:42:14 AM
Elmore: Are you part of Goodspeed's production of WHERE'S CHARLEY? If so, in what capacity?

Orchestrator. It's my 5th show for Goodspeed: OH, KAY!, THE CHOCOLATE SOLDIER, MIRETTE, REDHEAD, and now this.

Wagner and Richard Strauss are two operatic composers with moments I admire but should have learned two words early in their careers: edit & prune.
I'd rather listen to both at home and go on with housework than sit in a theatre and be bored four over four hours. I simply don't understand their appeal. I once dozed through TRISTAN UND ISOLDE with Birgit Nillson (!) because nothing happens! They bellow for forty minutes, King Mark looks unhappy and sings for another 10 minutes, then Tristan strikes Mark or vice versa and nothing happens while they sing another hour or so. Gorgeous music, but what a bore! However, the Quintet in CARMEN, Act Two, is such genius that it's one of the few pieces of music, along with most of Mozart, that I wish I'd written.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: William E. Lurie on May 19, 2004, 11:20:21 AM: Elmore---
I posted on Sunday that I got it and really enjoyed it. Which numbers did you orchestrate?

Mine came in Saturday's mail, two days after I got the e-mail that it was shipped.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Stuart on May 19, 2004, 11:23:51 AM: Quote from: Jay on May 19, 2004, 08:53:02 AM
Only Fox's U-bet syrup will do.

That's my big brother! I second that emotion!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 11:32:03 AM: Quote from: JoseSPiano on May 19, 2004, 08:47:19 AM
Questions for BK - and/or other DRs:
Hershey's Syrup, Quik, and/or Ovaltine?
Hershey's. Quick is too sweet, and Ovaltine isn't even real chocolate.

With or without Almonds?
With.

Rye: with or without caraway seeds?
With. Definately with.

Original Recipe or Extra Crispy?
Extra Crispy, but I don't like KFC. I much prefer Popeye's Spicy.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 11:45:19 AM: Quote from: William E. Lurie on May 19, 2004, 11:20:21 AM
Elmore---
I posted on Sunday that I got it and really enjoyed it. Which numbers did you orchestrate?

Mine came in Saturday's mail, two days after I got the e-mail that it was shipped.

DRWEL, it's most puzzling; I just spoke to my friend Tommy Krasker, and he said everyone seems to have received theirs, shipped by first class postage, this weekend! I am of course totally puzzled by the situation and believe it's the problem of my terrible post office, which is inept by all postal standards. My postman on Saturday was someone I'd never seen before who spoke English as a third or fourth language, wo told me there were no packages for me, and who later decided that, yes, I did have a package, but not either of the two from PS Classics!

As to what I did on the album, I did three or four: "The Jig Hop" and its dance, "I'll Hit a New High," and the piece for the men that brings on Andrea Burns. The number I loved in the studio, scored by Russell Warner, is the "Starting At the Bottom (title?) that Gavin Creel sings.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 11:50:17 AM: Quote from: Ben on May 19, 2004, 10:51:30 AM
Oh, my, I must do this. Forgive me. It's a pure vanity post.
[move=up,scroll,6,transparent,100%][size=20]Ben Has Ascended Into 2XG![/size][/move]
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: DearReaderLaura on May 19, 2004, 11:50:25 AM: This morning I went for a walk, and this is what I saw:
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: DearReaderLaura on May 19, 2004, 11:51:16 AM: Happy Birthday, Francois!!!!!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 11:51:21 AM: [move=up,scroll,6,transparent,100%][size=20]We Dance Upwards for Ben![/size][/move]
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Emily on May 19, 2004, 11:56:31 AM: An answer to questions asked:

Quik
Almonds (although plain is yummy too)
Without (carraway seeds = ugh)
PFK = gross (yes that is "poulet frit Kentucky" :) )

5'8''
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 12:05:13 PM: I can't remember ever asking a restaurant to make me something special. For one thing, I wouldn't do it unless the people at the restaurant knew me quite well. For another thing, asking for something off the menu (unless it's something they're known for) makes things hard for the chefs, who are working under pressure in the kitchen. That's unfair to the chefs, and unfair to the other patrons.

On the other hand, der Brucer and I have had dishes we haven't ordered brought out to us, and been told that the chef would like us to try it. This usually happens when we're known to the kitchen, and they want our honest opinion on something new. Although the last time this happened, it was the bartendender at Cafe Zeus wanting us to try his new Aphrodite's Kiss (Mount Gay Mango Rum, pommegranite juice, a splash of pineapple juice, and I'm the one who suggested the lime slice as a garnish, served in a martini glass), which is just as addictive as certain on-line games.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 12:06:06 PM: Emily, you're taller than I imagined!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 12:29:06 PM: I woke up craving peanut butter. I wonder why! ;D

I must comment on something mentioned yesterday. I’m with you Panni, plain traditional matzos and nothing else. I do put butter on it for a special treat.

SWW, I’m confused as Hellmann’s and Best Foods mayo tastes the same. Did they originally but now have the same ingredients?

Jason WELCOME BACK! :) Nice picture.

Td, wow, I didn’t realize I rated as a top poster. Maybe that is why I still have a pile of ironing that hasn’t been done.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FRANCOIS!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 12:38:26 PM: Ben, there is one major difference between Playwrights and Screenwriters...that is copyright. Playwrights own their copyright; Screenwriters don't. From that one issue flow all benefits for playwrights; all evils for screenwriters. Because we don't own our copyright, we get thrown off things we created, we have no say in changes, we have no power or control over the work. Because playwrights have copyright, no one can change a thing without their permission. The one trade-off is money. Screenwriters get paid obscenely well. Even mediocre screenwriters can earn a lucrative living. Playwrights trade money for power...unless they have a Broadway/West End hit or something that becomes a regional theatre hit or a community theatre staple, it's much harder for them to make a living.

As I get older, I want to abandon movies and go back to the theatre...which is where I started out, which I still find infinitely more exciting than film...a good play for me is always more thrilling than a good movie. But also in the theatre, things are not topsy-turvy, the power still rests with the visionary, the one CREATING artist -- The playwright. That's not to say the others contributors aren't "creative", but they are INTERPRETING artists.

I was on the Board of Directors for the WGA from 1997-2001. I ran on one issue alone. Creative Rights. I was known (and still am in some circles) as "The Pit Bull of Creative Rights". I won't be happy until screenwriters have the same power as our brothers in the Dramatists Guild (of which I'm also a member).

Here are THE THREE GREAT LIES OF HOLLYWOOD:

1)THE AUTEUR THEORY. This is the greatest French farce since Feydeau. WRITERS create stories, not directors.

2) DIRECTOR'S VISION. If a director is doing his job right, he has NO VISION. All he has is a point-of-view toward THE VISION OF THE SCRIPT. Which a WRITER wrote. A director SERVES the script.

3) A FILM BY. Always a sop to an insecure ego. This started off as a marketing ploy because a half dozen directors became as recognizable as the stars they were directing, so they got their name over the title (But look at something like YOU CAN'T TAKE IT WITH YOU...It says Frank Capra directs James Stewart and Jean Arthur in...No "Frank Capra film" or "A Film By...").
But guess what, kiddies? There's still only about a half dozen "star" directors. So why has this possessive become a wholesale statement of artistry that touts every nonentity, hack, and mediocrity to come down the pike? And why should even box office directors get to lay claim to the whole movie? A film is always the work of many, many people, not just one man...Though Ben Hecht once said: "A film is never any better than the stupidest person connected with it."

Directors always bellow, "The script is merely a blueprint for a film", displaying their illiteracy by misinterpreting this word. A contractor doesn't go around willy-nilly changing the blueprints of a house. He may change a window or a closet, but he doesn't shift stress-bearing walls...and even on small changes, he usually consults the architect. And it's always a "Frank Lloyd Wright" house. Named after the guy who designed it, NOT the guy who built it.

Back in the thirties, a director was usually assigned a script after it was where the producer wanted it to be. If he didn't shoot something, Hal Wallis or whoever was on the phone, saying: "Where is scene 56B?" After he finished filming (or even before) that film was with the editor and the director wasn't there with him. He was off filming his next assignment. If you wanted final cut, you learn to cut in the camera like John Ford, so that there was only one way to put the thing together. Often times director's were taken off films, sometimes they were taken off something to go shoot footage on someone else's film. The writers may have been employees in those days; but so were the directors.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 12:46:38 PM: Today's questions and answers:

I'm a quarter of an inch under 5'11", but I've always put 6" on my acting resume because people always thought I was six feet. I have...or at least had...very good posture.

However, I was recently examined for an insurance policy and the examiner measured me at 5'10" But I found his way of measuring me a bit inexact. He just ran a roll-up tape-measure along side me and sighted along it. So he was either sloppy or I'm shrinking in my dotage.

I used to be able to order one of my favourite salads...a German hot slaw dish from my mother's recipe at our local bistro. But since the restaurant got so expensive and our visits more infrequent, I would no longer presume to do this...even if they could remember the recipe.

BK, I must have been E & T when it happened, but what is all this "And one for Mahler"?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 12:52:16 PM: Quote from: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:28:13 AM
Does anyone still wear a hat?

Keith and I both have a nice hat collection and wear them often
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Ben on May 19, 2004, 12:55:06 PM: Wow, thanks Pogue for a great answer. A dear friend of mine (a playwright who is no longer an active playwright) said someone said to him (my friend) at one point, "you can make a killing in the theatre, but it's hard to make a living."
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 12:55:14 PM: The lovely wife is as witty as she is lovely. We were listening to CNN with breakfast this morning and heard a story that Yankee fans were revolting (well, they've always been revolting. This time, they're rebelling) because the Yankees are going to stop selling Crackerjacks in favour of Crunch 'n' Munch. As we were trying to fathom the havoc this would wreak on that old standard Take Me Out To The Ballgame ("Buy me some peanuts and Crunch 'n' Munch, I don't care if I never eat lunch"?), I lamented with a sigh: "I hate this country; it has no respect for its traditions." To which the lovely wife replied. "It maintains its tradition of stupidity." "Ah, yes," I acknowledged. "I'd forgotten that." And the lovely wife retorted: "Its one tradition it will never lose."

Nope, guess not. George Bush in the Oval office is indisputable proof.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 12:59:15 PM: I’m 5’3¼“ (Jennifer gets her half, I take my quarter) and wish I were taller so I can eat more and reach things on high shelves. I do feel lucky to be this tall. I was only 4’10”” when I entered high school, and 5’2½” when I left.

Jason I’m sure your parents will notice your weight loss, I didn’t say anything but thought you looked thinner in your new photo. Now are you going to tell me it isn’t new?

JoseSPian I have driven a good distance for a Carvel’s ice cream. :P

Dan (the man) we have requested vegetarian dishes, nothing specific, just when the original menu is lacking in choices. Sometimes we get lucky.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 01:13:31 PM: Hershey's Syrup, Quik, and/or Ovaltine?
I use to like Hershey’s but haven’t had it in years. I still don't like Ovaltine.

With or without Almonds? Almonds.

Rye: with or without caraway seeds? It must have seeds.

Original Recipe or Extra Crispy? I can’t recall having either.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: George on May 19, 2004, 01:23:11 PM: Quote from: bk on May 19, 2004, 10:27:58 AM
Whatever happened to Free Cell?

I also love Free Cell. I play that as much as I play Scorpion Solitaire. I have a diskette that has 50 different Bicycle Solitaire games on it and Scorpion is my favorite. That and Free Cell. I have South Park Free Cell. It's exactly the same as regular Free Cell, but has South Park characters on the cards.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Dan (the Man) on May 19, 2004, 01:31:25 PM: Okay, thanks to DR Panni, this is my chief accomplishment for the day:

(http://img42.photobucket.com/albums/v130/WandaDuck/WandaDuck/bookworm.gif)

I have the advantage of working on a laptop, so I can continue the game at home as long as I don't power-down the machine. I have some errands to run before I go home but the battery should keep up for at least two hours.

I feel like George in that episode of Seinfeld with the Frogger machine...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Robin on May 19, 2004, 01:33:55 PM: Quote from: Jane on May 19, 2004, 01:13:31 PM
Hershey's Syrup, Quik, and/or Ovaltine?

With or without Almonds?

Rye: with or without caraway seeds?

Original Recipe or Extra Crispy?

Ovaltine.
With Almonds.
With or without seeds. Don't matter to me.
Original recipe.

And, even though no one asked, here is my KFC story....

Once upon a time, when I was a nearly-starving college student, my roommate got a part-time job at KFC. This was back when it was still called Kentucky Fried Chicken. Every evening, he'd bring home leftover fried chicken. For two solid years, we ate a steady diet of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Now, one would think that a steady diet of this stuff would make me come to abhor the taste of the stuff.

Oh no.

Essentially, I became addicted to it. When Zack moved away, I found myself seriously jonesing for original recipe chicken. And even to this day, every few weeks, I MUST have some....or bad things start to happen. I think this is because the Colonel's secret blend of spices includes a dash of crack cocaine. I could be wrong about this. But I doubt it.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 01:40:05 PM: DRPanni, I love this game! I got to 54,150 before I burned down the library. I won't let that happen again.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 01:41:33 PM: Well, where's the flourish of strumpets? I just rose to the Heavens!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Matt H. on May 19, 2004, 01:44:28 PM: AS YOUNG AS YOU FEEL is a perky little comedy that's just loaded with wonderful character actors. Besides top billed Monty Woolley, there's the always stupendous Thelma Ritter, David Wayne, Allyn Joslyn, Jean Peters, Constance Bennett (of all people), Albert Dekker, Clinton Sundberg, and, of course, Marilyn. And if you look around the edges you can see people like Emerson Tracey, too. And it's only 76 minutes so the perfect length for a slim, likable little story.

Then, to go from the sublime to the ridiculous, I put in CONCORDE: AIRPORT '79. Only got 30 minutes in, but I sure can see why this was laughed off the screen. Simply terrible in every respect so far. It's the one AIRPORT movie I had never seen, so I thought it might be good for a groan or two. Make that two hundred.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 01:51:58 PM: Quote from: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 12:46:38 PM
K, I must have been E & T when it happened, but what is all this "And one for Mahler"?

Lyrics from "The Ladies Who Lunch" (COMPANY)

I’d like to propose a toast
Here's to the ladies who lunch--
Everybody laugh.
Lounging in their caftans
And planning a brunch
On their own behalf.

Off to the gym,
Then to a fitting,
Claiming they're fat.
And looking grim,
'Cause they've been sitting
Choosing a hat.
Does anyone still wear a hat?
I'll drink to that.

Here's to the girls who play smart--
Aren't they a gas?
Rushing to their classes
In optical art,
Wishing it would pass.

Another long exhausting day,
Another thousand dollars,
A matinee, a Pinter play,
Perhaps a piece of Mahler's.
I’ll drink to that
And one for Mahler

Here's to the girls who just watch--
Aren't they the best?....etc.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 01:54:23 PM: FS Pogue - I knew if were patient you'd appear and answer the screenwriting question to perfection, and I wouldn't have to make the attempt (although I did start earlier - so I didn't totally abandon my post as one of the resident screenwriters).
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 01:57:27 PM: Oh God, elmore!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 01:59:29 PM: Quote from: TCB on May 19, 2004, 01:57:27 PM
Oh God, elmore!

You rang? Hee Hee! :D
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 02:02:04 PM: Jane: No, the picture is not old. In fact, I just had those headshots done about three weeks ago. I have a couple more that I'm using (more formal, less smiley), but the one I'm using today on HHW will be my everyday "boy next door" shot. My friend took the pictures for me and should have my 8x10 final shots processed by Friday. Isn't THAT exciting? Isn't it too too??

Elmore: Congrats on the Goodspeed gig(s). I'd give my right arm to work there. I doubt they'd hire me with only one arm, but I'd still love to work there. Oh, to be a union actor... Anyway, I agree with you about Wagner. What a snooze-fest. The Wagnerpalooza known as THE RING is the singular most self-indulgent and musically masturbatory piece of "theatre" I've ever experienced. As DAS BARBECU showed, that story can be told in WAY less than nineteen hours. I also agree with you about the CARMEN quintet. I had the great joy of being in a chorus of CARMEN back in Kentucky and I thought it was some of the most exciting stuff I'd had the chance to sing. And give me anything by Mozart and I'm likely to love it--especially his choral works.

I think I'm gonna go home now...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 02:04:19 PM: I just called and scheduled myself for two dentist appointments. I got one, just for cleaning.............

............... and one for molar!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 02:06:53 PM: CONGRATULATIONS NEWEST GOD, ELMORE!
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/engel/angel-smiley-015.gif)

(I EVEN FORGIVE YOU FOR ASKING BK, INSTEAD OF ME, ON A DATE!)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 02:08:27 PM: Quote from: TCB on May 19, 2004, 02:04:19 PM
I just called and scheduled myself for two dentist appointments. I got one, just for cleaning.............

............... and one for molar!

Now, that's what I call Comedy!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: George on May 19, 2004, 02:12:00 PM: Quote from: Ben on May 19, 2004, 10:51:30 AM
Oh, my, I must do this. Forgive me. It's a pure vanity post.

[move=right,scroll,6,transparent,100%]CONGRATULATIONS, BEN ON THE BIG 4 DIGITS!![/move]

[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]CONGRATULATIONS, ELMORE ON BECOMING THE NEXT HHW GOD!![/move]
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jay on May 19, 2004, 02:13:16 PM: Quote from: Jason on May 19, 2004, 02:02:04 PM
Anyway, I agree with you about Wagner. What a snooze-fest. The Wagnerpalooza known as THE RING is the singular most self-indulgent and musically masturbatory piece of "theatre" I've ever experienced.

[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Beware the wrath of Wotan![/move]
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 02:13:17 PM: Robin, you brought up something I've noticed just recently. KFC as opposed to Kentucky Fried Chicken...Are they making a conscious effort to phase out the name? Is it the word "fried" in this health-obssessed era that scares them?...Or is the word "Kentucky" just too-rube-hilly-billy oriented and not hip enough? Though the grub there gets a bad rap, I do feel the need to indulge every so often...always original recipe for me.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 02:14:41 PM: Now, Jay, I like all the sturm and drang of Wagner's Ring. In fact, it's the only Opera I've ever taped off TV.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 02:16:27 PM: Quote from: Panni on May 19, 2004, 02:06:53 PM

CONGRATULATIONS NEWEST GOD, ELMORE!
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/engel/angel-smiley-015.gif)

(I EVEN FORGIVE YOU FOR ASKING BK, INSTEAD OF ME, ON A DATE!)

DR Panni, my heart and CD player burns for you but there's more this party than just seeing Dear Friend BK!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 02:29:13 PM: Quote from: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 02:13:17 PM
Is it the word "fried" in this health-obssessed era that scares them?...

That is it. It's what I heard on the news recently so it must be true.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 02:31:00 PM: Keith Echo and I just sat on the lawn and enjoyed the first strawberries from the garden. :)

CONGRATULATIONS ELMORE! WELCOME TO THE CLOUDS.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 02:39:01 PM: Congrats to elmore on his ascension!

Panni, I don't want to know what bookworm is or where to find it. I already have enough procrastination distractions on my computer and internet.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 02:50:31 PM: I've just received an email from our newest god, Elmore, saying that HHW has disappeared from his computer. ("The Website is disabled" is the message he's getting.) Perhaps the other gods are jealous. I told him to restart the computer and see what happens. Any other ideas?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 02:51:02 PM: Jane - You never answered my cat toy question from yesterday....
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jay on May 19, 2004, 02:55:55 PM: Quote from: Panni on May 19, 2004, 02:50:31 PM
I've just received an email from our newest god, Elmore, saying that HHW has disappeared from his computer. ("The Website is disabled" is the message he's getting.) Perhaps the other gods are jealous. I told him to restart the computer and see what happens. Any other ideas?

There was a brief gap in the transmission of the site. (Shades of Rosemary Woods.) He should have no problem gaining access now.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 03:01:23 PM: Quote from: Panni on May 19, 2004, 02:50:31 PM
I've just received an email from our newest god, Elmore, saying that HHW has disappeared from his computer. ("The Website is disabled" is the message he's getting.) Perhaps the other gods are jealous. I told him to restart the computer and see what happens. Any other ideas?

I received that message last time I tried to post. I just closed HHW, reopened it and didn't have a problem again.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 03:12:49 PM: I've let god Elmore know, Jane and Jay. Thanks!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 03:14:00 PM: Welcome to the Clouds Elmore3003! Heaven will never be the same again!

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/engel/angel-smiley-029.gif)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 03:14:43 PM: I must go back and play more bookworm.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 03:15:08 PM: Quote from: Panni on May 19, 2004, 02:51:02 PM
Jane - You never answered my cat toy question from yesterday....

I’m sorry I missed the question. :-[

I have never had outdoor cat toys. If other cats hang around they might try taking a catnip toy away from her. You might try sitting outside with her for a few minutes while she plays with it, then take the toy back in with you. Another option would be to try getting one on a string and hang it from a tree or something-just make sure she can’t strangle herself. Cats love to hang out in paper bags, play with rolled tin foil and the cardboard rolls from toilet paper. Is there a place to plant a fresh catnip bush? Then all the cats could share. ;D

I have always found my cats liked the catnip toys inside a fabric and have never been very interested in catnip balls.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 03:17:53 PM: Hi Elan-WELCOME!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 03:38:59 PM: Quote from: Jay on May 19, 2004, 02:13:16 PM
[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Beware the wrath of Wotan![/move]

DR Jay, I love you but I fear the BOREDOM OF WOTAN AND ERDA (Remember Erda?)

I rebooted and now I can get back on the site!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Tomovoz on May 19, 2004, 03:39:20 PM: Congratulations Elmore.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 03:40:54 PM: Quote from: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 03:14:00 PM
Welcome to the Clouds Elmore3003! Heaven will never be the same again!

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/engel/angel-smiley-029.gif)

I plan to make your heaven hell, MB!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 03:51:54 PM: Thanks for the info, Jane. What she really wants to do is move in with me. I'm the catnip.
I'll get something next time I'm at Petsmart.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 03:53:03 PM: I have to say all this 9/11 hearing playback on the news in depressing me a helluva lot.

DRJay, I must say, I enjoyed the RING more on the Met broadcast than I ever did in the theatre, maybe it's because of the subtitles or the fact I could get up and wander during the 40% boring sections, but I do agree with DR Jason that for a series of pieces call "music drama," I find there's no drama in that ur-Nazi.

There's more brilliance in Mozart, Beethoven, Bizet, Verdi and Britten for me at the opry than the two Rickies, not that there aren't moments I admire in both but they are only moments. Why is it an uncut performance of Mozart flies by and even Wagner's one good work DIE MEISTERSINGER turtles by?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 03:57:12 PM: Sorry for the momentary blip - these things happen - all is well now. Just a leetle webhost error.

I have now played bookworm and I shall beat Panni about the head and neck for even bringing it up. The first game I played I scored 800 before burning down the library. I then sort of caught on, and the second game I scored 81,860. My third game I scored 125,820. It's sick. Had a lovely lunch with Miss Christiane Noll and will be seeing her in Urinetown this Sunday. Off to ship some things, then I shall return, like General MacArthur.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 03:57:48 PM: However, I did enjoy in 2001 the City Opera's production of FLYING DUTCHMAN, with Mark Delavan, as I recall, but I preferred FALSTAFF.

DRJAY, do you know that wonderful out-of-print book PRIMA DONNAS AND OTHER WILD BEASTS, which was my favorite book in high school and college?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jay on May 19, 2004, 04:06:53 PM: OK, OK. I confess. Most of Siegfried is ghastly. In fact, other than for the forging song and the forest murmurs, it all is ghastly until Brunnhilde wakes up. But I'll sit through this opera in exchange for the stretches of sheer genius and electricity of the other sections of the Ring.

As for the other "Rickie," I love Salome, Elektra, and Rosenkavalier. I just saw my first Frau this year and I'd be just as happy if it were my last.

That's what makes horse racing.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jay on May 19, 2004, 04:08:49 PM: Quote from: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 03:57:48 PM
DRJAY, do you know that wonderful out-of-print book PRIMA DONNAS AND OTHER WILD BEASTS, which was my favorite book in high school and college?

I don't. Will have to look for it. Sounds like fun!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: George on May 19, 2004, 04:11:32 PM: Quote from: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 03:53:03 PM
There's more brilliance in Mozart, Beethoven, Bizet, Verdi and Britten for me at the opry than the two Rickies, not that there aren't moments I admire in both but they are only moments.

Life is made of moments, even now and then a bad one.
But if life were only moments, then we'd never know we'd had one.
(or something like that...a Sondheim reference!)

And speaking of Sondheim, I went to the post office at lunch today and picked up two, count 'em TWO, packages from amazon.com. One contained the songbook to HONK! (exclamation point theirs) by George Stiles & Anthony Drew (I love this show) and the other contained the original cast recordings of A Year with Frog and Toad and the aforementioned Sondheim's Bounce! (exclamation point mine) They sent the red cover. I know that even if I don't like it, I'll like it...if that makes sense. ::)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 04:13:25 PM: Quote from: Jay on May 19, 2004, 04:06:53 PM
As for the other "Rickie," I love Salome, Elektra, and Rosenkavalier. I just saw my first Frau this year and I'd be just as happy if it were my last.

Well, nothing's as tuneless as INTERMEZZO! It sends you back to WOZZECK with some real appreciation of Berg's way with a tune. I must confess my favorite Strauss is ARIADNE AUF NAXOS, ut even it could use some pruning, and I'd like to see the original someday with the Moliere play as the first half; City Opera should do it, with all the unemployed actors in this town. As for DER ROSENKAVALIER, well, he could cut 20% off Acts One and Two and 60% off Act Three and I'd be happier.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on May 19, 2004, 04:41:36 PM: I just got in after a long day working in a faraway suburb.

First things first:

Happy Birthday François (Ben, I stole your cedilla)

Welcome Back Jason (we missed you)

Mazel Tov Elmore (right behind you)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 04:44:59 PM: Quote from: bk on May 19, 2004, 03:57:12 PM
Sorry for the momentary blip - these things happen - all is well now. Just a leetle webhost error.

I have now played bookworm and I shall beat Panni about the head and neck for even bringing it up. The first game I played I scored 800 before burning down the library. I then sort of caught on, and the second game I scored 81,860. My third game I scored 125,820. It's sick. Had a lovely lunch with Miss Christiane Noll and will be seeing her in Urinetown this Sunday. Off to ship some things, then I shall return, like General MacArthur.

I hope to Heck that you did not tell Miss Christiane Noll about Bookworm. I would hate to have Panni blamed for Miss Noll missing all future performances of Urinetown!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 04:48:46 PM: Quote from: Dan-in-Toronto on May 19, 2004, 04:41:36 PM

Mazel Tov Elmore (right behind you)

Merci beaucoup, DRDan! I'm getting the cheering section ready!

Back to FINE AND DANDY: besides DR WEL, has anyone ordered or listened to it yet? Good cast: Carolee Carmello, Mario Cantone (I liked him a lot in the studio, DR WEL, and he's such a nice man; he was great to work with in BOYS FROM SYRACUSE as well), Gavin Creel, Andrea Burns, and I'm sure I'm leaving out others! This is a plug!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 04:55:06 PM: Was Panni the one responsible!!!!

OK, I just became Master Librarian with a score of 172,250. My most valuable word was Sox (?).

I am discovering a lot of words that I had never heard of...and here is a helpful hint: The word Qua saved my butt a couple of times!!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 04:57:51 PM: Damn all those who have suggested BookWorm. My first game I scored 81,660. Not too bad for a first-timer, right?

What have I started with all this opera chatter? Of Mr. Strauss' work, I will say that I was totally enthralled by this season's offering of SALOME. I greatly enjoy ARIADNE AUF NAXOS, and the story of DIE FRAU OHNE SCHATEN intrigues me, but the music does not. I don't know ROSENKAVALIER, but I've heard it's wonderful.

I just listened to THE SCREAMS OF KITTY GENOVESE. What a horribly gruesome show! Very disturbing, very bizarre.

Now back to BookWorm...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 05:03:53 PM: BK, next time there is a severe shortage of posts you know what will be responsible...this new devil's game that we have been introduced to! LOL!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 05:08:17 PM: Yes, and we shall blame Panni and we shall hit her upside the head and about the neck. I'm only a senior librarian, but then I've only played three games and the first one I had no clue what I was doing.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Dan (the Man) on May 19, 2004, 05:12:04 PM: Hey! I just figured it out! Didn't Dr Panni tell us a few weeks ago that she and DR DanInToronto were planning world domination? Well I think that this Bookworm thing is part of their plot! Yes! Don't you all see? We are all becoming hopelessly addicted to this seemingly harmless word game, ignoring our jobs, neglecting our families, totally oblivious to the events around us. In the meantime, DR Panni and DR DanInToronto will casually take over the seats of power unchallenged. And by the time we look up from our computer screens it will be too late!

Look, you fools! You're in danger! Can't you see? They're after you! They're after all of us! Our wives, our children, everyone! They're here already! YOU'RE NEXT!

And by the way, Soylent Green is people! And it's quite tastey spread on rye with fresh tomatoes and garlicy mayonaise!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 05:18:14 PM: Dan the Man knows too much. He must die.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: divarobbie on May 19, 2004, 05:22:17 PM: RE: Fine & Dandy

I worked the first recording session with Carolee Carmello, but haven't recieved my copy yet. I can only say that "Nobody Breaks My Heart" is still ringing in my ears...
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 05:31:25 PM: Jay, have you ever watched Fritz Lang's silent classics Siegfried and Kreimheld's Revenge. Both eminently watchable. Good stuff!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 05:35:07 PM: One of the most horrible experiences I ever had as an audience member (or as a human being, for that matter) was at a performance of THE FLYING DUTCHMAN by the Canadian Opera Company (or whatever it's called). We had been given opening night tickets by the costume designer of the production, Suzanne Mess. House seats - very good - very prominent. The maiden, Senta, was - shall we say - ample. The way the set wes raked, it gave the impression that it swayed as she walked. And when she jumped off the cliff at the end, it looked like the ship in the distance sank from the tsunami she created. Hard to explain - but - to me - hilarious. I had been sort of quietly laughing for some time prior to the climax, but at that moment I burst into loud, uncontrolable guffaws - which could be seen and heard by one and all - including the woman who'd kindly comped us. MORTIFYING. But funny.
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0304/verkleidung/costumed-smiley-083.gif)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 06:09:44 PM: ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on May 19, 2004, 06:19:31 PM: Quote from: Dan (the Man) on May 19, 2004, 05:12:04 PM
Hey! I just figured it out! Didn't Dr Panni tell us a few weeks ago that she and DR DanInToronto were planning world domination? Well I think that this Bookworm thing is part of their plot! Yes! Don't you all see? We are all becoming hopelessly addicted to this seemingly harmless word game, ignoring our jobs, neglecting our families, totally oblivious to the events around us. In the meantime, DR Panni and DR DanInToronto will casually take over the seats of power unchallenged. And by the time we look up from our computer screens it will be too late!

And by the way, Soylent Green is people! And it's quite tastey spread on rye with fresh tomatoes and garlicy mayonaise!

They're on to us Panni. And it's only a matter of time before they twig to the hidden messages in the tiles.

Meanwhile, DR Dan (the Man) (So what am I, Dan (the chopped liver?)), I think you've solved the mystery of DR Sandra's taffy. The secret flavor is Soylent.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 06:22:32 PM: Welcome to heaven, DRELMORE!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 06:27:40 PM: I had a yummilicious BLT for luncheon at noon. Now I'm trying to decide if that will be it, or if I will give in to my In and Out burger craving. Only time will tell. And why is that? Why will only time tell. Why does time have to always be the one to tell? Damn them, damn them all to hell. Best score: 4th game - 128,670. Best word score: COLON - 1620.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Danise on May 19, 2004, 06:39:29 PM: Hi folks,

Sorry to have been E & T. A lot has happened in the past few days and among other things I have been buried in e-mails to answer.

I had a wonderful time on the trip. I won’t bore you with the TONS of pictures I took of Mr. Ball but will show you two of the best I took.

Give me a few days and I will tell you all about it. I need to edit my notes on the trip.

At this point I guess I should be saying I am getting ready for the NYC trip but it looks like that may not happen. I had a medical problem in Utah and have already been to the doctor about it.

He said he wasn’t going to tell me not to go but unless I can get control of it (considering I have no family in NYC) I could be in BIG trouble and all alone in a strange city. I’ve been put on heavy meds and already have had some tests run. I need to see what they say and if the meds take effect. He suggested Friday as the day to choose if I should go or not. Sigh.

[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Happy Birthday to all those I missed and a special Happy Godhood Day to Elmore![/move]
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Danise on May 19, 2004, 06:40:44 PM: Here is a color shot. I was messing with the camera, trying everything to get the best pictures.

BTW I LOVE my digital camera!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Robin on May 19, 2004, 06:45:11 PM: Quote from: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 02:13:17 PM
Robin, you brought up something I've noticed just recently. KFC as opposed to Kentucky Fried Chicken...Are they making a conscious effort to phase out the name? Though the grub there gets a bad rap, I do feel the need to indulge every so often...always original recipe for me.

Yup, they're going all out to look hip, cool and not greasy.

Here in Minnesota, lots of KFC's are doubling up with A&W, so the signs read:

KFC A&W

Whenever we go there, I want my food ASAP, PDQ and on the QT.

And original recipe rules!!!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: TCB on May 19, 2004, 06:46:47 PM: I am so sorry you are not feeling well, Danise. I hope you get to feeling better very soon. But, please, just tell me one thing: Was he wonderful???
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Robin on May 19, 2004, 06:48:59 PM: I usually get into the 180,000-200,000 point range on BookWorm. I guess being a Scrabble-holic helps at that game.

By the way, I'm just a few hairs over six feet tall. I think that's just right. (Now, I'd just like to take about twenty pounds off, and all will be right with the world. But I despise dieting...)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 06:54:37 PM: Danise the pictures are great and I hope you work things out by Friday. I look forward to hearing about the concert.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 06:58:30 PM: DR Danise, it sounds like you had a ball with Michael Ball in Utah!

I hope you can make your NYC trip! But do try to get well first. You know of course all DRs will be sending get well vibes your way!

If only Mr. Ball knew what you go through for him! LOL!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 07:05:41 PM: You must all STOP TALKING about this Bookworm now! I will not be tempted. I love my Scrabble. I play Solitaire Boggle all the time. But I'm not going somewhere else that I can waste time! So stop it! Do not tease me this way anymore!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 07:15:30 PM: Quote from: JRand53 on May 19, 2004, 06:22:32 PM
Welcome to heaven, DRELMORE!

Thank you, DR JRand53 and DR Danise! I was feeling so good about my first two scores on Bookworm but everyone else's scores leave me in the dust. I was lousy at chess, too, and I think I'm too impatient to weigh all possibilities before jumping in. It's a nifty game, though, and I will keep playing.

I've tracked down the one song I was working on JRans, so now I'll get to work on yours.

DR Danise, in laste summer, 1999, I had several ruptured cervical discs causing my motor control to go to hell: I could hardly walk, couldn't hold a pencil, could not control my abdominal musicles, bladder and bowels, and before they diagnosed it I was convinced I was dying of multiple sclerosis, muscular systrophy, cancer, brain tumor, or something yet to be discovered. I
was turning down work, including some work for Patti Lupone, telling people I was too busy because I didn't want anyone to know I might never work again. I had to go to London in late November for the Cole Porter Trust to supervise the BBC-Radio 3 performances of JUBILEE, and even though I had doubts, my chiropactor and neurologist advised me to go. By that point the ruptured discs had been found and all I was doing was waiting around for my HMO to allow the surgery.

I went gingerly to London, fell down on Bell Street and couldn't raise myself because there was no support for me to drag myself back up on my feet. I lay there on my back flopping around like a beached whale and some kind young Pakastani or India student passing by helped me up. I spent one day in the hospital, missing a rehearsal, attended to by a beautiful blond Scottish doctor who reminded me of my first NYC roommate Melanie Carvil. The flight back after the performances was a major ordeal, but a week after I got back I saw a neurosurgeon and a week later, the first Friday in Dec. 1999, I had the surgery, which was relatively successful.

Am I glad I didn't cancel the trip? Very. Would I have done it if I knew the ordeal? I don't know. Half of me says no, but the other half is grateful that I got to meet some wonderful performers including the late great Denis Quilley and I know I have great reliant friends in London. However, if you're having health problems, I'd seriously consider the pros and cons.

If you come, I look forward to seeing you.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jane on May 19, 2004, 07:20:56 PM: elmore I'm glad it all worked out for you. That had to have been frightening.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: DearReaderLaura on May 19, 2004, 07:27:59 PM: Danise, I'm so sorry to hear you had problems on your trip. ~~~~~~~ for your medical test results!!!!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 07:41:51 PM: Embarrassing Moment of the Evening: I'm in my apartment...I'm enjoying the DREAMGIRLS Concert Recording at a high volume...I'm singing along with the DREAMGIRLS Concert Recording, again--at a high volume (I believe the song was "Ain't No Party"), and I swing the door open to go to the bathroom and there stands one of my neighbors, looking at me like I'm a complete freak. Of course, the fact that someone was there scared the shite out of me and I nearly jumped out of my robe. If my neighbor didn't hate me before, I'm sure he does now...or he at least thinks I'm a thoroughly ridiculous person. Oh, horror!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 07:52:50 PM: Quote from: Jason on May 19, 2004, 07:41:51 PM
Embarrassing Moment of the Evening: I'm in my apartment...I'm enjoying the DREAMGIRLS Concert Recording at a high volume...I'm singing along with the DREAMGIRLS Concert Recording, again--at a high volume (I believe the song was "Ain't No Party"), and I swing the door open to go to the bathroom and there stands one of my neighbors, looking at me like I'm a complete freak. Of course, the fact that someone was there scared the shite out of me and I nearly jumped out of my robe. If my neighbor didn't hate me before, I'm sure he does now...or he at least thinks I'm a thoroughly ridiculous person. Oh, horror!

I find the way to cope with several tenants on my floor is to realize they're the thoroughly ridiculous ones and pursue my interests immune from their often superior attitude. I may have taken that crap in high school but never ever again! I try not to intrude on their space and I'll be damned if they do on mine.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 07:53:52 PM: Ooh, I'm getting vexed and testy. I guess it's time for bed. Good night, all!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 07:53:53 PM: Quote from: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 12:46:38 PM
I'm a quarter of an inch under 5'11", but I've always put 6" on my acting resume because people always thought I was six feet. I have...or at least had...very good posture.
Slaving over a keyboard has that effect, I've heard. :-\
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jay on May 19, 2004, 07:55:59 PM: Quote from: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 05:31:25 PM
Jay, have you ever watched Fritz Lang's silent classics Siegfried and Kreimheld's Revenge. Both eminently watchable. Good stuff!

I have not seen them complete, but I have seen excerpts from them and, I agree, they were most engaging. Would like to see them in their entirety.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 07:59:20 PM: Quote from: elmore3003 on May 19, 2004, 01:41:33 PM
Well, where's the flourish of strumpets? I just rose to the Heavens!
[move=up,scroll,6,transparent,100%][size=10]DR Elmore3003 has ascended![/size][/move]
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jay on May 19, 2004, 08:03:27 PM: Speaking of Verdi's Falstaff and BK's good friend Stephen Sondheim, here's an interesting item from today's Los Angeles Times:

L.A.'s 'Sweeney' gets the ax
By Chris Pasles
Times Staff Writer

May 19 2004

Los Angeles Opera's plans to present Stephen Sondheim's "Sweeney Todd" in May 2005 have been derailed, officials said Tuesday. A film adaptation of "Todd," to be directed by "American Beauty" Oscar winner Sam Mendes, is in pre-production, and all theatrical performance rights to it have been withdrawn.

Bryn Terfel, who was scheduled to sing the title role, will still be here, however. He will instead sing the title role of Verdi's "Falstaff" in a revival of the 1990 L.A. Opera production. The cast will also include Kallen Esperian (Alice Ford), Vassily Gerello (Ford), Jane Henschel (Mistress Quickly), Celena Shafer (Nanetta) and Daniil Shtoda (Fenton).

Stephen Lawless will direct, and music director Kent Nagano will conduct. "Falstaff" tickets go on sale Aug. 1. "Sweeney Todd" ticket-holders will be contacted by Los Angeles Opera Audience Services: (213) 972-8001.

Copyright 2004 Los Angeles Times
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jay on May 19, 2004, 08:08:37 PM: [size=8][move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Double-Double[/move][/size]
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 08:11:39 PM: 5th game: Score - 205,920. Archivist. Highest word score: Blunt - 1800. Who had the highest score here? Don't want to go through all the posts. Pogue, you may as well give in - I didn't want to do it, I didn't want to do it, but tonight old man I did it, I did it, I did it. It's fun, but the games do go on so I will not be addicted as I am to Free Cell.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 08:12:37 PM: Quote from: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 02:13:17 PM
Robin, you brought up something I've noticed just recently. KFC as opposed to Kentucky Fried Chicken...Are they making a conscious effort to phase out the name? Is it the word "fried" in this health-obssessed era that scares them?...Or is the word "Kentucky" just too-rube-hilly-billy oriented and not hip enough? Though the grub there gets a bad rap, I do feel the need to indulge every so often...always original recipe for me.
The info I've been able to dig up, from the KFC website, (http://www.kfc.com/)isn't really clear as to when the name change occurred. There certainly has been a lot of passing the cluck...er, buck, however, as the following quote shows:

By 1964, Colonel Sanders had more than 600 franchised outlets for his chicken in the United States and Canada. That year, he sold his interest in the U.S. company for $2 million to a group of investors including John Y. Brown Jr., who later was governor of Kentucky from 1980 to 1984. The Colonel remained a public spokesman for the company. In 1976, an independent survey ranked the Colonel as the world's second most recognizable celebrity.

Under the new owners, Kentucky Fried Chicken Corporation grew rapidly. It went public on March 17, 1966, and was listed on the New York Stock Exchange on January 16, 1969. More than 3,500 franchised and company-owned restaurants were in worldwide operation when Heublein Inc. acquired KFC Corporation on July 8, 1971, for $285 million.

Kentucky Fried Chicken became a subsidiary of R.J. Reynolds Industries, Inc. (now RJR Nabisco, Inc.), when Heublein Inc. was acquired by Reynolds in 1982. KFC was acquired in October 1986 from RJR Nabisco, Inc. by PepsiCo, Inc., for approximately $840 million.

In January 1997, PepsiCo, Inc. announced the spin-off of its quick service restaurants -- KFC, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut -- into an independent restaurant company, Tricon Global Restaurants, Inc. In May 2002, the company announced it received shareholders' approval to change it's corporation name to Yum! Brands, Inc. The company, which owns A&W All-American Food Restaurants, KFC, Long John Silvers, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell restaurants, is the world's largest restaurant company in terms of system units with nearly 32,500 in more than 100 countries and territories.

As I recall, the name change didn't take place until after the Colonel's death, circa 1980. The advertising changed from using the actual man as their spokesperson, to using a cartoon image, and now employs a semi-stylized graphic of the Colonel. My hunch (and I could be wrong) is that the name change came about because it is both faster to say, and sounds more hip.

Or is "hip" acceptable jargon these days?
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 08:14:45 PM: Oh, and a little warning: I have never seen so much virus crap coming in all my life. It's worse than it's ever been, and the fact that no one, no hacker, no computer genius, can figure out how to nail these mofos is sickening. In any case, all these virus e-mails look like they're coming from people you know, so if there's an attachment, ANY attachment, do NOT open it unless you first write the sender and ask him/her if it's safe to do so.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 08:16:07 PM: Quote from: Panni on May 19, 2004, 03:51:54 PM
Thanks for the info, Jane. What she really wants to do is move in with me. I'm the catnip.
I'll get something next time I'm at Petsmart.
A flea collar, perhaps?

::)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jennifer on May 19, 2004, 08:25:52 PM: DR Danise: Please feel better.

It's very hard to advise you without knowing the details. I think you should do whatever your doctor suggests. But if you want any help, please feel free to email me privately.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Kerry on May 19, 2004, 08:29:11 PM: Joyeux Anniversaire, mon ami Francois!!!!!

Happppppppppppy Day to all the rest of you. My schedule is starting to get back to normal (whatever that is), so I should be around this here site (as we say in the West) more. Now I must dance................
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 08:37:04 PM: You are not alone, DR Charles, in wanting to avoid Bookworm.

There's something about playing games on-line that bothers me. I can be doing so many other things on-line, like researching stuff, or catching up on what people I know are doing, or just surfing.

Off-line, I've got my own Solitaire routine. I pull up Hoyle's Card Games, set it to Solitaire, and then play, in order, Four Seasons, La Belle Lucie, Pyramid, and Klondike. Each game has to be played until I win a round. Then I get back to whatever.

Der Brucer is a Free Cell player.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Matt H. on May 19, 2004, 08:42:07 PM: I found the one hour AMERICAN IDOL results show tonight a totally endless affair despite the fact that there were several guests there including the Australian Idol who had a powerful voice but who sang through his nose which irritated me. Thankfully, because I was watching the series finale of ANGEL (wonderful one, BTW), I recorded AI on the DVR, so I could do one minute skips and lose not only all those commercials but most of the extraneous stuff leading up to the announcement of the person going home.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Matt H. on May 19, 2004, 08:45:38 PM: Sorry to read about that cancellation of SWEENEY TODD, DR Jay. I guess it's good news to read there will be a movie version (though I can't imagine a worldwide film audience waiting for this).

Thanks for the info.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 08:50:06 PM: Re: Dreyer's/Edy's, requested yesterday by DRJose.

Picking up various bits and pieces from the Dreyer's Ice Cream website, (http://www.dreyersinc.com/about/index.asp) William Dreyer and Joseph Edy were partners early on in the ice cream business. The partnership disolved in '47, but after the company changed hands a few more times, it was decided to market the ice cream under the name Dreyer's west of the Rockies, and and Edy's east of same, in honor of the two founders.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: MBarnum on May 19, 2004, 08:57:22 PM: Quote from: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 08:37:04 PM
You are not alone, DR Charles, in wanting to avoid Bookworm.

There's something about playing games on-line that bothers me. I can be doing so many other things on-line, like researching stuff, or catching up on what people I know are doing, or just surfing.

I totally agree with you on that. In fact until now I had never even checked out any on-line or off-line games. It is such a waste of my time when I should be working on my interviews or watching my unwatched dvds. Goodness.

Um....now just one more game of Bookworm before I go to bed! LOL!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: S. Woody White on May 19, 2004, 09:00:01 PM: Made chile for dinner tonight. It was pretty good. And it keeps reminding me of how good it was. ::)
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 09:03:22 PM: I just had me some In and Out Burger and I must say it's the best in town. Never fails.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Charles Pogue on May 19, 2004, 09:26:17 PM: Woody, the only computer game I play is straight Solitaire. I have a computer Boggle version, but I can play it faster writing down words than I can moving a mouse over letters. If I really want to waste time on the computer...I have the complete Mad magazine up to 2001 on the computer.

Jay, I also read that article about the Sweeney Todd cancellation. I could understand canceling it, if the film were about to be released, but if it hasn't even started filming yet...what's the point? Do they really think people are going to say..."Oh, I saw the Opera do it two years ago...I don't need to see the film."?

Nope, BK, I will not give in!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Panni on May 19, 2004, 09:58:14 PM: Danise - sorry to hear about your health problems. Hope it all works out. Good vibes your way!

Finally caught up with GLOOMY SUNDAY tonight.

I haven't kept up with the high score words. Darn! Must start writing them down.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jrand73 on May 19, 2004, 10:17:42 PM: Thanks for the pics Danise! I can just imagine Michael Ball was wonderful!

DR MB thanks for the word qua!

DRJASON the only proper response at that moment would have been: Now get out of my way - I've got a show to do.

WEL didn't answer my question. 8-(
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: JoseSPiano on May 19, 2004, 10:36:34 PM: Good Evening!

Hey, these three hour + days are really not sitting well with me. ;)

-More rehearsal this afternoon for the new guy - thankfully, he's a very hard worker - very earnest. Then the show - pretty good show tonight - the orchestra was in a particularly good groove this evening.

DR Danise - I'm so glad you had a great time in Salt Lake City - and that you got a ton of pics of Michael Ball. I hope you won't have to cancel your New York City trip...

[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]~~~~~GOOD HEALTH VIBES~~~~~[/move]

Oh, I don't think I answered my own questions from earlier:
-Ovaltine - I just really like the malt. I also like Quik - but I usually have to put in A LOT before it tastes "good" to me. ;)
-With Almonds - usually. But as for Mounds vs. Almond Joy - always WITH!
-Seeded (meaning with seeds)
-Extra Crispy - Yes, it's bad for you no matter what diet you're on. And I still remember just pulling off the crunchy coating and skin, and not eating the chicken when I was younger! Salt, flour and fat!!!

And I'm 5'8" - It's a good height, but there are times when I wish I was taller, even just an inch more. Of course, my weight is another matter... but I'm making progress on that too.

As for Bookworm... I seemed to have lost my computer game "jones" a few years ago. Just not really interested. But I used to play games like Q-Bert, Free Cell and Tetris for a good chunk of time.

-And on a related note, I've never been able to come close to mastering things like Nintendo, X-box, etc. Or even some standard arcade games from my youth; I never made it past the first screen of Donkey Kong. For some reason, my fingers don't seem to have the coordination for that kind of activity - but put a Bach, Beethoven, Debussy or Sondheim piano score in front of me... piece of cake! -more or less.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: PennyO on May 19, 2004, 10:55:31 PM: Just checking in... I had a lovely bath today, even washed my hair -- no easy feat with no running water. Well, that's not entirely correct... I do have running water, just not in the house. But there is the stream, and one can heat buckets of water in the big soup pot on the wood stove, then mix with cold water, and have a bath. A very welcome one, indeed - as I spent the day up on the hill burning the brush pile. Soot everywhere.

Anyhow, I'm off to bed. Maybe a video to sleep to. Probably Happy Gilmore. For some reason, I can always sleep if I put that one on. Good ol' Adam Sandler! Nite, all!
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Tomovoz on May 19, 2004, 10:59:13 PM: How could anyone not fall in love with Michael Ball? Thanks for the photos Danise and the very best of good health vibes to you.
Of course Michael Ball came second with the UK entrant for Eurovision some years ago. "One Step out Of time". You need to know that.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: Jason on May 19, 2004, 11:08:01 PM: Top score today: 178,510.

And now I must shower and get to bed. Goodnight.
Title: Re:SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Post by: bk on May 19, 2004, 11:40:48 PM: Say, where in tarnation IS everyone? Better not be playing that infernal game. We have noticed that dear reader Panni has been errant and truant for most of this evening, oh, yes, we have noticed and taken note of our noticing.