Thursday, May 31, 2007


Beatles Insider And Music Industry Executive
Ken Mansfield Pens Memoir Of Rock's Greatest Era:

The White Book
The Beatles, the Bands, the Biz:
An Insider's Look at an Era


Includes Never-Before-Told Accounts About The Fab Four, The Beach Boys,
Roy Orbison, Waylon Jennings, James Taylor, Harry Nilsson and Many More

Book Available w/Limited, Numbered Edition a la The Beatles'
"The White Album"

Ken Mansfield has worked with some of the biggest giants in the rock 'n roll and the country music genres. As the former U.S. manager of the Apple Records label, he was invited by his bosses, The Beatles to be among only a handful of eyewitnesses to catch their last-ever gig on the rooftop of their London headquarters on January 30, 1969. He was a loyal employee and companion to John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr both during the band years and well after their breakup in 1970. He was present when they composed some of their most enduring tunes. As a record label exec and Grammy Award-winning producer, he also worked on the marketing, promotion and production of dozens of top-selling artists, such as the Beach Boys, and was also a major player in country music in the 1970s as producer of choice of the groundbreaking Outlaw movement, whose impact is still felt in the genre to this very day.

Now, Mansfield's experiences with the Fab Four and the music industry -- many of which are told for the first time -- are recounted in his first all-music tome, "The White Book - The Beatles, the Bands, the Biz: An Insider's Look at an Era" (Thomas Nelson/ISBN 1-59555-101-8, $22.99) to publish October 30, 2007.

Through exclusive, never-before-seen photos and personal stories, Mansfield -- one of the very last Fab Four insiders to pen a book -- offers a compelling memoir that delves into his life in the 1960s and '70s and his unique partnership with The Beatles and other musicians who had orbited their world, from James Taylor to Harry Nilsson. It also includes fleeting, yet unforgettable encounters with Mama Cass Elliott, Eric Clapton, Donovan, Glen Campbell and Dolly Parton. As observer, friend and colleague, Mansfield attended Beatles recording sessions, partied in their swimming pools, took their irate calls, witnessed the madness of Beatlemania, and publicized their success. Entertaining, historically accurate, and illuminating a side of the Fab Four known only to a few like Mansfield, The White Book shines fresh light on the true characters behind the cultural phenomena that revolutionized a generation.

"The White Book" will be packaged in a limited, numbered edition, a la the original copies of "The Beatles" highly influential double album from 1968, also nicknamed "The White Album."

As the former head of Apple Records, Jack Oliver, has said of Ken, "He is one of the few insiders left that bore witness to the highs and lows of those insane days when we ruled the world."

Mansfield was an insider to Beatles history in the making, yet still retained a wide-eyed amazement and excitement about his involvement with these events. In addition to aggressively promoting the various artists in the Apple Records stable like James Taylor, Badfinger, Mary Hopkin and Jackie Lomax, he became a trusted member of his bosses' inner circle and got to know them intimately - he was among a small, privileged audience as the four Beatles played a casual cocktail set at noontime in London during a break from a meeting, he would join them at local boutiques or cafés, and was around when they composed their songs. Even after Mansfield resigned from Apple Records in 1970, he would still be a key personal liaison and friend to them, either mailing them copies of the latest U.S. country albums or being their escort for them and/or their wives when they visited Los Angeles. These stories shed new insight into their personalities: McCartney surprised the author with an all-expense, first-time-ever trip to Europe; Lennon clashed with him about matters surrounding Apple's sister, yet short-lived electronic label, Zapple; Harrison gave veggie cooking lessons in Mansfield's kitchen, and the author accompanied Starr to Elvis' comeback show in Las Vegas in 1970.

This book also details other fascinating highlights of Mansfield's career. As a record-label executive, he had also worked with artists as diverse as the The Four Freshmen, Judy Garland, Buck Owens, Lou Rawls, Andy Williams, David Cassidy, Dolly Parton, and the Flying Burrito Brothers. He helped popularize the Outlaw movement in country music by producing Waylon Jennings' top-selling album, Are You Ready for the Country in LA in 1976. Uniquely this was one of the first country albums recorded outside of Nashville, and its success spurred interest from other Music Row artists to create their own albums in Hollywood. He also helped ink Ringo Starr's deal to Private Music/RCA, which led to the release of the drummer's first pop studio album in a decade, the critically acclaimed Time Takes Time from 1992.

Some of the great stories in the book include:

-- Spending hours with the Beatles on the floor of the yet-to-be-furnished Apple offices in London mulling over whether "Hey Jude" or "Revolution" should be the A-side of their first 45 with Apple Records in 1968. Ken was assigned to visit top rock radio stations in the U.S. and have the DJ's vote for their favorite; naturally the consensus was for "Hey Jude," which was then ultimately chosen and became one of the most successful singles in their career.

-- Ken was among the very few of the Fab Four associates to witness the historic last Beatles concert on the rooftop of 3 Savile Row, Apple's headquarters in London, on January 30, 1969 - spot him in the Let It Be film wearing the white raincoat, sitting next to Yoko Ono and Maureen Starkey, Ringo's wife. Because it was bitter cold, they were huddled together against the smokestack; for a while Ken stood a few feet away from Harrison holding up four lit cigarettes, so that the guitarist could reach over and warm the tips of his fingers in order to feel his guitar strings.

-- Being snubbed for life by Beach Boys leader Brian Wilson in 1965, when Mansfield, then the National Promotion Manager at Capitol Records, tried to discourage Brian from releasing the band's loose, party jam, "Barbara Ann" as a single - Brian gave him a furious glare and ignored his advice, and the record eventually became a worldwide smash.

-- A once-in-a-lifetime superstar "guitar pull" in late 1968 in LA at a house that Mansfield had rented for George Harrison, where Harrison, along with Jack Casady from Jefferson Airplane, Eric Clapton (during the last days of his supergroup, Cream), Donovan and Jackie Lomax sat together around a circle performing songs on their guitars.

-- Being invited by McCartney to join in with suggestions as he was composing "Back in the U.S.S.R." and "Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da" from the nicknamed "The White Album"

-- John Lennon and Yoko Ono protesting Mansfield's decision not to release a single on Apple Records called "The King of Fuh" in the U.S.. After Ken stated that the lyrics would be blatantly objectionable by American standards, Lennon said, "we thought you were one of us, Ken...but it looks like you are just one of the establishment like everyone else, after all... we thought we could trust you of all people to understand the concept behind the whole Apple enterprise... we didn't know you were sent over here from the 'land of the free' to act as Apple's personal tight-assed censor!"

-- The last few tragic moments in the life of Beatles' roadie Mal Evans in 1976, who was killed repeatedly by police gunfire - Ken said he was one of the last people he had spoken to; he couldn't meet with Mal because he had to accept an award at the Billboard Music Awards.

With ringing endorsements from such rock 'n roll legends as top producers Peter Asher and Alan Parsons, and former Rolling Stones manager Andrew Loog Oldham, as well as Beatles historians, "The White Book" transports readers through a long and winding road of new stories that shed insight into their icons and favorite musicians of rock's greatest era.

Wednesday, May 30, 2007


Mary Kay in Full Color

BeansTalk submits this corrected photo of the Mary Kay Signature Nourishine Lip Glosses which should have accompanied the article entitled "Lip Lock" on May 25, 2007. BeansTalk wants to thank the good folks over at Mary Kay for the beauty boost these products provide as well. Check them out at www.marykay.com or 1 800 MARY KAY.

Tuesday, May 29, 2007



How Cute is XCVI?


LOVE ‘EM and SLEEVE ‘EM
Fall 2007 from XCVI Casual Wear



Romance is the reason for the season, according to XCVI, whose celebrity fans include Nicolette Sheridan, Natalie Portman and Sarah McLachlan. The LA-based casual wear company features a Fall line up that includes draped dolman sleeve tunics, Victorian turtlenecks, ruched empire waist tops and coy kimono wraps – pieces a girl can really get sweet on.



This season Sangria, Sandalwood, Black Forest and Tarragon permeate the color scheme in the following pieces:

* Bohemian Tunics
* Lace Yoke Blouses
* Blouson hoodies
* Poetry tops
* Roll sleeve trench coats
* Promenade skirts
* Day bloomers
* Cinched Sleeve hoodies
* Baby Doll jackets and more…

“XCVI is proud to have a reputation of using incredible fabrics,” says designer Lilia Gorodnitski. “As such, our Fall styles are only enhanced by our new Baby Fleece, Stretch Gabardine, Soft Corduroy, Voile and Heavy French Terry.”



XCVI is sold at Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus and select boutiques nationwide, like Fred Segal. The price point ranges from $40-$130. For more information visit www.xcvi.com.

Friday, May 25, 2007


Rock The Summer Dress
...with one of these, available at NeimanMarcus.com

Cynthia Steffe Ribbon Trapeze Dress Price: $330
White with cobalt floral print.
• White lace and ribbon trim.
• Scoop neckline; shoulder straps.
• Drop pleats on front.
• Straight skirt.
• 72% cotton, 28% silk.

Thread
Eyelet Mini Dress
Price: $710.00
A super-feminine dress adorned in sweet eyelets and ruffles.
• Putty (khaki) with allover eyelets.
• Ruffled scoop neckline; sleeveless.
• Pleated bodice.
• A-line skirt.
• Scalloped hem.
• 100% cotton.
• Made in USA.

3.1 Phillip Lim Pleated Dress Price: $750.00
A sexy pleated dress with a sweet rosette.
• Black with a tonal sheer overlay.
• Scoop neckline; sleeveless.
• Tonal rosette on front.
• Cut-in shoulders.
• Pleated skirt.
• 100% silk.
• Dry clean only.
• Imported.

Yoana Baraschi Ruffled Tank Dress Price: $350.00
Gold.
• Scoop neckline; gathered detail on shoulder straps.
• Tie waist.
• Softly flared skirt with ruffled trim.

Velvet Sleeveless Dress Price: $108.00
• Sidra Style.
• Black.
• Round neckline; buttoned shoulder strap.
• Tie waist; full skirt.

Laundry by Shelli Segal Color-Block Dress
Price: $185.00
• Navy/green/marine.
• Square neckline; sleeveless.
• Empire waist.
• Full skirt.
• Dry clean only.

Nieves Lavi Floral-Print Dress Price: $350.00
• Ofir Style.
• Multicolor floral print.
• Scoop neckline; spaghetti straps.
• Ruched bodice; half button placket.
• Full skirt.
• 100% silk jersey.
• Dry clean only.

Diane vonFurstenberg
Contrast Dress
Price: $298.00
Another masterful dress enhanced with colorful eyelets from Diane vonFurstenberg.
• Aidan Style.
• Black with allover red/gold contrast square eyelets.
• Scoop neckline; shoulder straps.
• 100% cotton.
• Imported.
• Dry clean only.

Shoshanna
Embroidered Dress
Price: $370.00
• Chocolate.
• Ivory embroidered Empire waist and hem.
• Scoop neckline; shoulder straps.
• Full skirt.
• Dry clean only.






































Lip Lock

by Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

Listen up girlfriends, BeansTalk is puckering up for some super-cool lip colors just in time for summer. They are the Signature NouriShine Lip Gloss and Signature Lip Liners from our friends over at Mary Kay. It is really easy to prevent chapping and drying of lips when you have one or two of these handy little tubes in your pocket or purse. We are big fans of the lip glosses because they glide on evenly, are especially long lasting, and come in many pretty shades. We often use them to tone down a too bright lipstick or “amp up” a dull one.

The new NouriShine formula is enhanced with more than 80% moisturizers and conditioners including aloe, protecting lips from dehydration and locking in moisture, leaving lips soft and supple. Fortified with Vitamins A and E and other antioxidants, NouriShine forms a protective defense against wrinkle-causing free radicals and exposure to the environment and helps restore a youthful smile – all with a high-gloss shine and on-trend sparkling colors. Retail: $13.00

Check em’out in10 shades to wear alone or layer over lipstick:
Beach Bronze, Berry Sparkle, Coral Rose, Cream & Sugar, Gold Rush, Melon Sorbet, Pink Diamonds, Starry, Sugarberry, Sweet Raisin

Complete your look with perfectly defined lips:
Mary Kay’s MK Signature Lip Liners glide on smoothly and provide a flawless outline every time. The updated liners have a creamy formula that delivers long-lasting, stay-put, waterproof color and even contains ingredients that care for and protect the delicate skin around your luscious lips. Each liner is a retractable pencil that never needs sharpening and the point keeps its shape after application.

Mary Kay MK Signature Lip Liners, retail for $10.00, and are available in nine shades with helpful color indicators on the cap and bottom of the pencil: Cappuccino, Chocolate, Coral, Dusty Pink, Neutral, Pink, Plum, Raspberry, Red

BeansTalk Quicktips:
1. Try applying your liner after your lipstick. This way, as your lip color wears off, you will not be left with an embarrassing line.
2. For special occasions try filling your entire lip in with your favorite lip liner shade. It will have greater staying power, and last the whole evening.
3. BeansTalk tried several combinations of lip liners and glosses and had a few favorite combinations to recommend. We loved: Coral Rose gloss with Coral liner, Beach Bronze Gloss with Chocolate liner, and Berry Sparkle gloss with Pink Rose liner. Very pretty must-haves for the purse. We often change our combos as our moods change during the day!

Easy to Order, Easy to Get
With more than 700,000 Independent Beauty Consultants in the U.S., Mary Kay products are easy to order. Shop online with your Independent Beauty Consultant, or find one at http://www.marykay.com/ or 1-800-MARY KAY (627-9529).

Thursday, May 24, 2007







Short Shorts: Long on Style













by Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

Summer is finally here and our favorite “it girls" are showing some skin. Stars like Vanessa Minnillo and Tori Spelling recently have been seen sporting The Manhattan Short by David Park. These beautifully tailored shorts in fine wool and stretch sateen are on BeansTalk’s must-have list this season. Moreover, these sexy and sophisticated shorts come complete with single welt pockets, pleated cuffs and a vintage accent button, signature to all Park Clothing. The Manhattan Short is made in two fabrics: super 120 Merino Wool, available this season in chocolate pinstripe, red pinstripe, blue windowpane, tan, and black, and Silk Sateen available this season in black, mocha, apple, and red.

We think that Vanessa has the perfect body to pull off the short shorts with high heels look. Girl, if you can get away with it, meaning you have no dimples or bulges anywhere, do it. We also salute Tori Spelling for toning up those post-pregnancy abs. Not a stretch mark in sight.

Retail: $132.00 -- $165.00
Check out David Park at Kitson, Shop Intuition, and Switch in Beverly Hills. Or check outhttp://www.davidparkclothing.com/

Wednesday, May 23, 2007
























Some examples of Kenneth Inlow's earlier work. I love the one with the Springer.

BeansTalk bid and won this at the Farragut ArtWorks Auction, held Saturday 20 May 2007 at the Helms Bakery Bldg. in Culver City. We love it. Apparently, the artist finished this the week of 15 October 2006. "Baby on a Flying Guillotine Saucer", acrylic on wood 11 3/4 " round, 2006. Kenneth Inlow

Here's what the artist -- Kenneth Inlow says about himself on a website:

My Work - written on Wednesday June 28, 2006, 6:24
In my portfolio you will find a series of paintings that I call the "Floating World". This series stems from a desire to incorporate different elements that I have been exploring.Throughout the years I have been involved in the study of different movements in early 20th century art. Surrealism, Cubism. and Expressionism all appeal to me in different ways. I also like Art Nouveau, Chinese advertising art, and old Japanese prints.
I have created a structure on which I can fuse these ideas based upon asian religious art, the floating cloud like base. Then I incorporate the other images into an automatic drawing, or grid structure.Throughout this procedure I subconsciously am sorting through the imagery , making choices in regards to theme, surface, structure, and composition. The end result is cumulation of the whole process.

We also found this:

Artist Statement

This is a body of work that I call "The Floating World". It's a combination of ideas that I've been working with for many years.

The basic construct of the image is drawn out on the ground as a kind of automatic drawing. I then incorporate different images onto this "grid". It's amatter of finding what works conceptually, thematically, and compositionally. Through this process a narrative develops that is kind of a call and response between the different elements of the painting. The resulting image can often be dark, satirical, sexual, dreamlike, or comical.
influences & favorites

The major influences on my art have been Dali, Cezanne, Brueghel, Bosch, Van Eyck, Picasso, Dix, Van Gogh, Manet, Nerdrum, Essenigh, Beckmann, Hals, Klimt, Mucha, Hiroshige, Hokusai, Art Nouveau, and Chinese advertising art. Not all of these have had a direct impact on my work that you immediately see, but they have all shaped my vision in some way or another along the way.

Early on, I was attracted to art that conveyed a sense of place. A feeling of the people and the time that they lived in. I was endlessly fascinated by the Van Eycks and Hals paintings. I felt like they captured the essence of a moment in time long since gone. To me there was an Alchemy in the way they captured this. Something beyond human. Dali and the Surrealists took it even farther. I also like the predecessors to the Surrealists and Symbolists, Bosch and Breughel, with their mystical allegories.

In the Last few years I have seen some major exhibitions and have visited museums in Europe where I've really been exposed to a lot of art from the late 1800's and early 1900's, art that really deals with issues like surface and planes, paint and light , expressing things through paint handling and color. Breaking new ground. Changing the way of "seeing" things. I have really been inspired by that time period, it was a great mix of craft and exploration.
bio

Selected Exhibitions:

2005 Alex Haleigh Gallery "100 Miniatures" group show
Gardena, Ca.

2005 Alex Haleigh Gallery"Clockstoppers" group show
Gardena, Ca.

2004 Peachtree Studios "Second Nature" two person show
Mar Vista, Ca.

2003 Endearment Gallery group show
San Pedro, Ca.

2002 Angel's Gate Cultural Center "On Site at the Gate" group show curated by Patricia Correia
San Pedro, Ca.

2002 Endearment Gallery group show
San Pedro, Ca.

2001 Distinctive Edge Gallery solo show"Unknown Allegories"
San Pedro, Ca.

2000 Sunyata Gallery group show
San Pedro, Ca.
2000 LA Harbor College Juried Exhibition
Wilmington, Ca.


American actress Diane Lane arrives for the screening of the film 'No Country For Old Men,' at the 60th International film festival in Cannes, southern France, on Saturday, May 19, 2007. Lane carried a Daniel Swarovski black satin "Star Collector" Marilyn clutch. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

American actress Daryl Hannah arrives for the screening of the film 'No Country For Old Men,' at the 60th International film festival in Cannes, southern France, on Saturday, May 19, 2007. Hannah is seen with the Daniel Swarovski "Choc" Marilyn clutch as well Crazy earrings and ring. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Tuesday, May 22, 2007


Jeweled Angelina

Actress Angelina Jolie and actor Brad Pitt arrive for a gala screening of the director Michael Winterbottom's film 'A Mighty Heart' at the 60th Cannes Film Festival, May 21, 2007. Jolie wore Frances Klein Earrings. Jolie Jolie walked the red carpet in these jaw dropping Victorian, yellow gold, 3 1/2 karat diamond and pearl earrings which retail for $25,000. Stylist Jen Rade picked this earrings because they were a perfect match for her black vintage Balmain dress. Frances Klein of Beverly Hills (310) 274-3711 www.francesklein.com (Yves Herman/Reuters)


Tears of Joy

(BeansTalk Note: Too bad it’s Father’s Day that’s coming up and not Mother’s Day – we love these!)

Virgins Saints & Angels New Dangling Adornments

The boy left you waiting, the cab never came and that dress you ordered is stuck in the mail. Don’t fret, things are looking up because Virgins Saints & Angels new earrings may leave you dangling, but they will do so in style. Hand crafted in the tiny artist’s town of San Miguel De Allende, Mexico – Virgins Saints & Angels new Antiqua collection is full of dangling pendants and tear drops. Inspired by this season’s ultra bright color palette, the range of earrings is available in 15 different colored natural stones and Swarovski Crystals. Eva Mendes, Jessica Alba, Madonna and Faith Hill have all been let down by Virgins Saints & Angels…and they loved it. www.vsadesigns.com















Queers' Quarter of a Century

It’s The Queers 25th anniversary!!!

Are they headed your way?

May 30 – 8:00pm - Hi Tone – Memphis, Tennessee
June 3 – 7:00pm – Marquis Theater- Denver, Colorado
June 4 – 8:00pm – Burt’s Tiki Lounge – Salt Lake City, Utah
June 5 – 6:00pm – Grove Street – Boise, Idaho
June 6 – 5:00pm – The Blvd – Spokane, Washington
June 7 – 7:00pm – El Corazon – Seattle, Washington
June 8 – 8:00pm – Satyricon – Portland, Oregon
June 9 – 7:00pm - The Red Room – Vancouver, British Columbia
June 10 – 9:00pm - Lucky Bar – Victoria, British Columbia
June 12 – 7:30pm – The Boardwalk – Sacramento, California
June 13 – 7:30pm - The Breeze, Tahoe Biltmore – Tahoe City, California
June 14 – 8:30pm – Bottom Of The Hill – San Francisco, California
June 15 – 6:00pm – Studio 99 – Bakersfield, California
June 16 – 9:00pm – Alex’s Bar – Los Angeles, California
June 17 – 6:00pm – Safari Sam’s – Los Angeles, California
June 18 – 8:30pm – The Casbah – San Diego, California
June 19 – 7:00pm - The Club House – Tempe, Arizona
June 20 – 7:00pm - The Launchpad - Albuquerque, New Mexico
June 21 – 7:00pm - Chic's - El Paso, Texas
June 23 – 6:00pm - Cameron Park Pavilion – Waco, Texas
June 24 – 8:00pm - Emo’s - Austin, Texas

Support:
May 30-June 6 Black Tie Bombers support
June 7 – June 17 The Methadones and The Manges support
June 18 – 19 the Heart Attacks and the Manges support
June 20-June 24 the Heart Attacks support

Holy crap! It’s amazing that The Queers have been around for 25 years. Back 1982, Joe King (aka Joe Queer) and the original lineup recorded their first 7” called “Love Me”. Who would have thought that their signature brand of pop-punk surf rock would stand the test of time? 25 years! Damn!



This year The Queers are commemorating their achievements in a number of ways: their first ever DVD, a brand new CD, and a shit load of touring.



DVD: The Queers - The Queers Are Here (MVD Visual - www.mvdb2b.com - OUT NOW!)



Featuring world tours from '93 to '05, interviews, music videos and an unreleased animated video on their 1st DVD! It includes footage of all the live energy and behind-the-scenes craziness of the Queers on tour around the world. Also included are interviews, music videos, and an unreleased animated video. "Its been almost 25 years since the first 7” was released, so we figured it was time for a DVD. Besides being able to play with so many great bands, it has been awesome to make friends all over the world from Japan to Brazil to Europe and beyond." -Joe Queer



Songs: I Spent The Rent, Nothing To Do, This Place Sucks, Hi Mom It's Me, Don't Back Down, Night Of The Livid Queers, Blabbermouth, Ursula Finally Has Tits, Like A Parasite, We'd have A Riot Doing Heroin, Terminal Rut, Fagtown, Wimpy Drives Through Harlem, I Only Drink Bud, Ben Weasel, You're Tripping, Granola Head, Fuck The World, Debra Jean, Tamara Is A Punk, I Live This Life, Drop The Attitude Fucker, I Can't Get Over You, Brush Your Teeth, I Live This Life, Definitely, We'd Have A Riot Doing Heroin, Noodlebrain, Punk Rock Girls, Sidewalk Surfer Girl
Here is Britney Spears (in pants that she should've taken to the tailor or whipped out her sewing kit on the flight) leaving the airplane that didn't have real leather seats. Check out the cute cute Ju-Ju-Be bag and see the story below. Photo from X-17 online (duh).

Britney Spears bought the Ju-Ju-Be Packabe in Perky Perennials style (http://ju-ju-be.com/packabe.html) at Nordstrom at The Grove in LA (there's video of her shopping with her crew on Access Hollywood's site). Later Spears was photographed wearing the bag heading for Orlando. There is video on Access Hollywood's site of Britney trying to get off an airplane she didn't like (they apparently didn’t have real leather seats in first class), and you can see the bag on her back. Also see these links for still shots:

http://x17online.com/celebrities/britney_spears/x17_xclusive_britney_takes_off_for_orlando.php

and

http://www.splashnewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/05/splashnews_sdfl200507j_01.jpg
Grey’s Anatomy star Katherine Heigl wore Stuart Weitzman’s chic black-satin Fever pumps to the premiere of her movie “Knocked-Up.”

Monday, May 21, 2007


Robert Lindsay is the
Prime Minister
in
The Trial of Tony Blair



“We were treated to an all-too-plausible glimpse into the troubled mind and future of our beloved leader in The Trial of Tony Blair.” The Scotsman



In the wake of Tony Blair’s recent announcement that he is to stand down as British Prime Minister, BBC AMERICA presents a fictional satire of one of the most powerful and controversial figures on the world’s political stage. Made for TV movie, The Trial of Tony Blair, premieres Sunday, June 17 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.



The year is 2010 and Blair is giving his last ministerial broadcast, having finally handed over the reigns of power to his deputy, Gordon Brown. On the other side of the Atlantic, President Hillary Clinton is campaigning for her second term at the White House and former President Bush is in rehab.



In an acclaimed performance as Tony Blair, Robert Lindsay masterfully portrays the tribulations of a leader struggling to come to terms with life without the trappings of power. At the peak of his political career, Blair was renowned for his courting of celebrities, artful manipulation of the media and a magnetic charisma. Now, racked with guilt over the Iraq war and obsessed with his plummeting popularity, the increasingly troubled Blair turns to Catholicism for strength.



When Brown is elected Labour Party leader, support across the country swells dramatically. Blair is terrified his legacy and place in history are in jeopardy and attempts to sabotage the Labour Party’s efforts to win the General Election by leaking an inflammatory e-mail, sent by Brown in 2006, to the media.



Meanwhile, the celebrities who once fawned over Blair now pay no attention. He’s ignored by his former American friends and visions of the Iraq War – especially those of dead civilians – haunt him. To compound his problems, the International Criminal Court is looking to bring War Crimes charges against the former UK and U.S. leaders – and now that Blair isn’t Prime Minister, he no longer has Diplomatic Immunity from prosecution. When the United Nations Security Council votes on the decision to bring Blair to court the resolution passes with all other UNSC members (including the United States) voting in favor.



The Trial of Tony Blair stars Robert Lindsay (GBH, My Family) as Tony Blair, Phoebe Nicholls (Shackleton, Maurice, Lewis) as Cherie Blair, Peter Mullan (Children of Men, Trainspotting, Shallow Grave) as Gordon Brown and Alexander Armstrong (Life Begins) as David Cameron, leader of the opposition. The film is written by Alistair Beaton and executive produced by David Aukin and Hal Vogel.



What The British Press Said:



“…successfully lodges some pretty devastating images and ideas in the brain. Blair is portrayed as obsessed with the idea of organising and protecting his public legacy as he faces life without direct political power.” The Observer



“This inspired satire… is the highlight of the week.” The Times



“The magnificent Lindsay portrayed Blair as a fundamentally decent man, blighted by delusions of grandeur and a stubborn refusal to waver from his own misguided moral rectitude.” The Scotsman



“The Trial of Tony Blair is all but essential viewing, being the chance to see Robert Lindsay expanding his impersonation of the prime minister.” Financial Times



Weight Wars on TLC’s New Big Medicine

It’s no secret that America has a serious problem with obesity. According to the American Bariatric Society, approximately 127 million adults in the U.S. are overweight, 60 million obese and 9 million severely obese. In TLC’s new series BIG MEDICINE, a father and son physician team fight the obesity epidemic one bariatric surgery at a time.



BIG MEDICINE premieres Monday, May 28, at 9 PM (ET/PT) and follows the personal stories of severely obese patients who turn to Houston’s Methodist Weight Management Center as a life-changing last resort. One of the most innovative bariatric surgery practices, Methodist adheres to a long-term, multidisciplinary approach that includes a plan for lifelong follow-up. At the heart of the operation is passionate father and son surgeon team Robert and Garth Davis, a pair who have dedicated their professional lives to raising awareness about obesity.



BIG MEDICINE offers a behind-the-scenes look into the controversial world of bariatric surgery. The series chronicles the emotional journeys and transformation of obese people who have opted to undergo weight-loss surgery in an attempt to regain their lives. Patients are captured at various stages in the process – before and during the surgery, through recovery and post-op care and often through cosmetic procedures designed to remove sagging skin after dramatic weight loss.



The 13-part series introduces viewers to the Methodist team of experts dedicated to lifelong patient care, including a nurse coordinator, dietitian and counselor. This group works together to evaluate patients, prepare them for the physical and psychological impact of surgery and offer long-term support through post-op programs. To Robert and Garth Davis, obesity is a disease. And while weight-loss surgery is not a cure, it can be a lifesaving option for patients who are ready to commit to long-term lifestyle changes.


Some of the extraordinary stories featured in BIG MEDICINE include a 26-year-old morbidly obese man who is a prisoner in his own home and must rely on his mother for all of his daily needs; a mother and daughter duo who have huge amounts of excess skin removed after losing a combined 225 lbs; and a 32-year-old dad weighing in at almost 500 lbs who lost both his parents from the complications of obesity and is desperate not to follow in their footsteps.



Often as gripping as the patient stories is the colorful relationship between this father and son team where old school meets new school head on. Dr. Robert Davis, aka “big D,” is true to the old ways of medicine and sometimes finds new techniques too flashy or unnecessary, while Dr. Garth Davis, aka “little D,” is eager to modernize the business. Despite these differences, the pair unites in the operating room to fight a common enemy and change lives forever.



For more than 25 years, The Methodist Hospital in Houston has led the way in helping people achieve weight loss with safe, long-term solutions. The Methodist Weight Management Center is the only comprehensive program of its kind in Houston, offering numerous weight-loss options for patients.



BIG MEDICINE is produced by The Idea Factory. Alon Orstein is the executive producer for TLC. Stephen David and Darryl Silver are executive producers for The Idea Factory.



Dr. Robert Davis (seen in image right) attended the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa and graduated in 1963. He pursued his post-graduate education in London & Edinburgh in Great Britain, New York, Galveston and Houston. He was certified by the American Board of Surgery in 1973 and recertified in 1987 & 1997. He has written many scientific papers and made presentations at scientific meetings. He is a member of several medical and surgical societies and has been awarded certificates by the American Medical Association for continuing education.

Robert is an Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine and deputy chief of the department of surgery at the Methodist Hospital. He is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the Royal College of Surgeons and a member of the American Society for Bariatric Surgery. He has given many presentations and published scientific papers. Dr. Davis was the chairman of the bariatric surgery committee at Methodist Hospital.

Dr. Garth Davis (seen in image left) graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Texas in Austin where he was the Student Government President. He was also awarded as the most outstanding student at UT. He went on to Medical School at Baylor College of Medicine and graduated in the top 10% of his class, and was inducted to Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. Garth completed his surgical residency at the prestigious University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where he was elected as to the position of chief administrative resident. While in Michigan, he had extensive experience in general surgical disciplines. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a Fellow of the American Society for Bariatric Surgery. He has attended many post-graduate courses including laparoscopic and bariatric surgery. He has given several invited lectures on the subject of Bariatric Surgery.

Garth has had extensive training in laparoscopic surgery and has studied the creation of a full service
integrated weight loss center. He has specialized in bariatric surgery and is the Medical Director of the
Weight Loss Program at the Methodist Hospital.

Dr. Davis has been recently recognized again as a Texas Monthly Super Doc.

Saturday, May 19, 2007












ANTM Picks a Winner


Despite the fact that bloggers are in a tizzy that she looks like a drag queen (we are a little embarassed to say we agree), Jaslene Gonzales, an online college admissions adviser from Chicago, was crowned the winner of the eighth cycle of The CW’s hit reality series “America’s Next Top Model.”



The three remaining models participated in a national photo shoot for CoverGirl’s Lipshine Lip Color and a “My Life as a CoverGirl” commercial. Cycle seven winner, CariDee, surprised the girls for some coaching during the final stage of the competition and the next day, the finalists faced the judges for the 11th elimination. While the judges were pleased with all of the girls’ performances in the commercial, they were especially impressed with Jaslene for incorporating her Latin heritage. Natasha continued to impress the judges with her ability to use the constructive criticism to improve from week to week. The judges decided that while Renee takes gorgeous photos, her look is not as fresh and young as the others, thus eliminating Renee from the competition.



The next day, Jaslene and Natasha met with Seventeen Magazine Entertainment Director, Carissa Rosenberg for their cover photo shoot. Emotions ran high as the girls began to realize that only one of them would end up as the cover of the magazine.



The following day, Jaslene and Natasha faced off in an unconventional runway fashion show with the theme “Evolution,” for Australian designers Sass & Bide, where they progressed from early women to high fashion runway models. The judges agreed that while Natasha’s performance started out strong, it grew weaker throughout the challenge. Meanwhile, Jaslene grew fiercer as the runway show progressed. After the fashion show, Jaslene said, “I think I bring a fierceness on the runway. I’m the Latin spice here. I bring some extra flavor. I’m not your girl next door.”



During the final elimination, the judges considered the runway performances from the final runway challenge, as well as each girl’s portfolio and their overall performance throughout the competition. While the judges felt that Natasha has beautiful features, Jaslene’s consistently strong photos and passion for modeling gave her the edge in the competition. “I didn’t make it the first time, but now look at me. I’m America’s Next Top Model. I’m a Cover Girl! And I think that shows all young women that if you have that drive – keep going, you can make it,” Jaslene said after Tyra announced that she had become “America’s Next Top Model.”



In addition to a $100,000 contract with cosmetics giant CoverGirl, this year’s prize package for the winner of The CW’s “America’s Next Top Model” will include a contract with Elite Model Management and a cover and six-page fashion spread in Seventeen magazine.



The eighth cycle of the hit reality series “America’s Next Top Model” on The CW follows 13 young women as they attempt to prove they have what it takes to make it in the high-stress world of modeling. Banks, who created the show, also serves as executive producer along with Ken Mok (“Making the Band”) and Anthony Dominici (“The Amazing Race”).



“America’s Next Top Model” airs Wednesdays, (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on The CW. For more information about “America’s Next Top Model” log on to www.cwtv.com.


BeansTalk Note: We watched two seasons of this show (not in a row, though). We watched Cycle 6 (Joanie SO should’ve won over Danielle) and a VH1 marathon of Cycle 1 (Adrienne aka Mrs. Peter Brady Curry won.) When we watched, we kept telling people that if you have a daughter, this really isn’t the show for you to allow her to watch. The judging is selective and, as it has been proven, rarely right. Elyse Sewell, who came in “third” in the first season was amazingly looking and may be considered the show’s most successful working model. Check her out (http://elysesewell.livejournal.com/) she was extremely intelligent and gorgeous, an almost unfair package of near perfection. We interviewed her for a story that our day job never ran, and were still impressed with her at the end of the interview. She travels extensively modeling.



Elyse Sewell, best of ANTM

Friday, May 18, 2007


Coming Soon to BBC America

BBC AMERICA serves up a daily dose of must-see drama with a regular week night visit to the fictional suburb of Hollyoaks. Hollyoaks airs Monday-Friday at 10:30 p.m. premiering Monday, June 4 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.



Before the first episode, members of the cast introduce characters and storylines in a special introductory show that takes viewers on a guided tour of Hollyoaks. Hollyoaks: The Story So Far premieres on Sunday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m. ET/PT and encores Monday, June 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.



Fast paced and issue-based, this gripping drama focuses on the lives and loves of a group of students who attend Hollyoaks Community College (HCC). The show blends light-hearted storylines that capture the spirit and excitement of being young while embracing serious issues – from teenage pregnancy to dating disasters - that are a part of teen life.



Hollyoaks has been a hit drama for a decade in the UK. BBC AMERICA picks up the story in the build-up to a pivotal plot point in which escaped convict Sam Owen, who was convicted of date rape, wreaks his revenge on Hollyoaks by inflicting death and destruction at the local pub, The Dog.



In the first episode we meet new students Will, Kris and Zoë who have just arrived at HCC as well as Jess, Olivia and Joe who are already living in the dorms. Kris, Joe, Zoë and Olivia will all be at The Dog when Sam holds them hostage.



Meanwhile, Sam’s brother Russ is trying to get on with his life following Sam’s conviction. He’s returning to HCC to study for a Masters and he’s got a new girlfriend, Sophie, although it seems like he still holds a candle for his ex, Mercedes.



Becca, a married teacher at Hollyoaks, is pregnant. She’s been having an affair with one of her former students, Justin. He’s spending time with his sisters, Mel and Sophie, talking about how he feels when the baby arrives… if it is his baby.



These stories continue to develop in the lead up to the devastating fire at The Dog, an event that will leave a scar on the face of Hollyoaks for years to come. In the ensuing episodes, the community will rally round to help the survivors and life goes on bringing with it a whole new set of problems and dramas for its inhabitants.



Amy has to deal with an unexpected pregnancy, Hannah’s pursuit of John-Paul leaves her constantly disappointed and she turns to food for comfort, school teacher Becca faces a jail sentence for her affair with ex-pupil Justin, and Clare and Max tie the knot - though it seems Clare might have an ulterior motive?



Looking further ahead, there’s more exciting drama in the pipeline. With powerful performances, great writing, award-winning storylines and beautiful people, Hollyoaks has something for everyone.

Thursday, May 17, 2007


Grey’s Anatomy actress Sara Ramirez stepped out at the ABC Upfront Presentation wearing a cocktail dress by Tadashi. The stunning Latina showed off her curves in a black ruched V-neck off the shoulder dress. Established in 1982 by designer, owner and President Tadashi Shoji, the Los Angeles-based company has become widely recognized for its original designs and innovative collections. Celebrity fans include Debra Messing, Emmy Rossum, Kate Walsh, and more. Ramirez, one of the stars of 'Grey's Anatomy' poses for photographers on the red carpet during the arrivals of ABC's 2007-2008 preview in New York, Tuesday, May 15, 2007. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Stunning red head actress Kate Walsh was red-carpet ready at The ABC Upfront Presentation while wearing Catherine Malandrino. Walsh announced her engagement (after a very quick courtship) to Alex Young, a 20th Century Fox movie executive. The Grey's Anatomy star selected to wear a blanc diamond cutout halter dress from the Catherine Malandrino Spring/Summer 2007 collection. Walsh, star of 'Private Practice' poses for photographers on the red carpet during the arrivals of ABC's 2007-2008 preview in New York, Tuesday, May 15, 2007. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)


Georgia Rule star Felicity Huffman made an appearance with her co-stars at the ABC Upfront presentation today wearing a dress by Desperate HousewivesKenneth Cole New York. The actress selected a curve-hugging orchid-colored spun silk twist front pencil dress. uffman, star of 'Desperate Housewives' poses for photographers on the red carpet during the arrivals of ABC's 2007-2008 preview in New York, Tuesday, May 15, 2007. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Wednesday, May 16, 2007


Lyric Culture Rocks the Avalon

by Andrea Goodwin, associate editor (agoodwin@beanstalkbiz.com)

You say you want a revolution? Lyric Culture hosts launch party featuring runway show and special performance by three time Grammy Award winning artist Fergie at Avalon Hollywood.

Lyric Culture, a premium rock n' roll lifestyle brand, celebrated its official launch at historical Hollywood night spot Avalon - Thursday, May 10th at 7 pm. Actually, many native Angelinos likely remember the Avalon as the Palace, back in the day. The Beatles played their first west coast club date there in the 60's. Last Thursday, BeansTalk was in attendance, covering the exclusive evening, which featured a runway presentation of Lyric Culture's debut collection, 'Lyric Culture: Revolution', as well as a special 60-minute performance by multi-platinum, three time Grammy Award winner Fergie. Guests were treated to appetizers from LA’s Chocolat restaurant and drinks from Heineken, Ecstasy, Trago tequila, Marani premium vodka and Steaz energy drink.

The intimate concert was a thrill for the lucky crowd of about 250, especially in light of the disclosure by Miss Fergalicious herself, that this event was, “only the second one-hour show she has ever performed as a solo artist.” She certainly was in top form both vocally and physically as she belted out tunes from Heart such as “Baracuda” as well as pulsating and gyrating versions of her own “London Bridge” and “My Humps.” She dedicated her latest hit “Glamorous” to the fashion devotees and “powerful women” in the crowd. Surprisingly, Fergie was dressed casually in slim black denim pedal pushers, black pat flats, and a simple black blouse for most of the evening, but perhaps this attire was planned so that she do acrobatic one-handed walk-overs while singing!

Lyric Culture is a lyric-inspired clothing company that embodies the words of legendary artists such as The Beatles, David Bowie, Janis Joplin, Marvin Gaye, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Fleetwood Mac and many others on denim, leather jackets, shorts, skirts, corsets, tee shirts and belt buckles. The debut collection titled 'Lyric Culture: Revolution' is dedicated to music created during the late 60s and early 70s, a period ripe with the realization that music could inspire social change. "From the moment psychedelia took hold in the summer of 1967 through peace demonstrations, free love and the anti-establishment culture, the artists of the revolution wrote songs to reflect a time where rebellion and love could co-exist. The depth and power of their music was an incredible source of inspiration for our Revolution Collection," says Hanna, President and Designer of Lyric Culture.


The runway show, styled by celebrity stylist Tanya Gill, featured looks from the retail collection, as well as special one-of-a-kind pieces, designed specifically for the runway. BeansTalk especially enjoyed the nod to the Glam-rock era of David Bowie and Ziggy Stardust. The models wore silver and gold lips and airbrushed fuscia and yellow eye make-up to complement the black licorice jeans, vintage tees, sexy leather vests, and patent hot pants. The crowd was also very enthusiastic about the “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” segment, as it featured a beautiful model wearing little more than a psychedelic tie-dyed mini and a Swarovski crystalized diamond bra. Let’s see now, can we really call what she modeled a “bra?” BeansTalk thinks not. Remember Demi Moore’s glued on sequins in “Striptease?” Well, this “bra” made that one look like body armor. It was very beautiful, actually. As this staffer was telling her companion that night, “Hey, if you have a beautiful body like that. You should be naked.”




Hanna, a musician and lyricist in her own right, created Lyric Culture as an answer to the recent changes in the music industry. "As a singer-songwriter and recording artist myself, I was always searching for innovative revenue streams for musicians. You can't make money in the music industry just by cutting an album anymore," says Hanna. The industry's response to the new brand has been positive - Lyric Culture has licensing deals with the largest music companies in the world including Warner Chappell, Universal Music Publishing, EMI, Sony/ATV,BMG, Chrysalis and more. The line is favored by celebrities including Kelly Clarkson, Elletra Rossellini, Cuba Gooding Jr., Molly Sims, Hilary Duff and Rock Star's Brooke Burke.

Celebrity fans, including Brittney Snow, Tracey Edmonds, Melody Thornton of the Pussycat Dolls, Rachel Hunter, and Sophia Bush came out to celebrate the brand’s official launch, could also be seen strolling the red carpet wearing Lyric Culture.

Lyric Culture is available at high-end boutiques and department stores such as Lisa Kline and Saks Fifth Avenue
Visit www.LyricCulture.com

Hot Togs!



Cropped Metallic Jackets: A Season Must-Have!

Alvin Valley
Metallic Cropped Jacket

Price: $384.00
• Silver linen.
• Round neckline; double-breasted button front.
• Gathered, yoked bust with button detail.
• Pleated side pockets; ties in back.
• Elbow sleeves with drawstring cuffs.
• 100% linen.
• Made in USA.
• Dry clean only.

Rozae Nichols Metallic Cropped Jacket
Price: $825.00
Metallic Cropped Jacket & Cami

Precious metals—a sweet cropped jacket is the perfect way to show-off this sexy golden top.

• Metallic Cropped Jacket: Silver. Ruched V neckline with tonal ribbon trim; tie closure. Three-quarter sleeves. 63% cotton, 22% paper, 8% polyester, 7% aluminum. Dry clean only.
• Metallic Cami: See without jacket below. A semi-sheer style in gold. V neckline; seamed bust. 100% cotton. Hand wash.


Mint Cropped Jacket
Price: $445.00
Crop in: the jacket gets a fresh new look for Spring.

• Cropped Jacket: Glistening Style. Portrait collar; one-button closure. Front welt pockets. Elbow sleeves. 53% linen, 45% cotton, 2% polyurethane.
• Silk Top: New Date Style. 100% silk.

Both, sand. Dry clean only. Imported.

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Excess Baggage: Hot Handbags at High Prices


Isabella Fiore Knightrider Britta Shoulder Bag
Price: $695.00
• "Knightrider Britta" style.
• Choose blue or black leather.
• Gold-tone hardware and studs.
• Buckled top handles; matching fleur-de-lis ID tag.
• Zip top.
• Woven body with scalloped trim.
• 11"H x 19"W x 4"D.

Isabella Fiore
Paisley Frame Satchel

Price: $725.00
Paisley and leather make a hip pairing on this classic shape.
• "Kelsey" style.
• Black leather.
• Ivory/black paisley cutout front.
• Anitqued brass hardware.
• Top handles with rings; detachable heart and paisley charms.
• Framed top with extended tab and turn-lock closure.
• Inside: three pockets and one zip compartment.
• Cotton lining.
• 12"H x 18"W x 7"D.
• Imported.

Jimmy Choo Tam Mesh Tote
Price: $3,450.00
• Silver-tone metal mesh with metallic silver leather trim.
• Silver-tone hardware and stud trim.
• Shoulder strap with rings.
• Extended tab with buckled closure.
• Made in Italy.