INSIDE THE AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS’ SWAG TENT: CELEB HOLIDAY “SHOPPING”

WIN THE 2010 ASBURY PARK FIREFIGHTER CALENDAR: TWITTER OR EMAIL THEBPLOT WITH THE WORD 'CALENDAR' NOW!!!

A local reader was invited to the American Music Awards’ Celebrity Gift Tent last Saturday (Nov. 21) to promote his new, fab product and wanted to give TheBPlot readers the first scoop. 

If you have not heard, the deal with swag tents basically is that companies offer free product and the celebs whore themselves out for free sneakers, sunglasses, jewelry, etc. by letting their photo be taken with the product.  In the end, if it is somewhat of a relevant celebrity, the companies get free publicity by sending the photos to magazines such as People, US Weekly and InStyle and saying “Look, so-and-so uses our product - will you write an article?”  A lot of the time it works out for everyone. 

Our local inventor / snitch went big-time with the small-time celebs and dishes about swag-hungry, holiday gift-getting celebs, in his own words: 

“Well, being part of the AMA swag tent sure was an experience.  There were about 43 vendors.  I learned afterwards that the top celebs don’t come to the event, but the B C and D-list people do – with their friends.  Plenty of kids under 15 years old do too. 

“One hundred ten ‘names’ attended and I’ve got photos of almost every one of them who took our stuff.  I met many ‘has been’ stars and ‘want to be’ stars, several stars from soap operas, Carnie Wilson, two rappers, a few from TV shows (‘LA Ink’, ‘V’ and a few others), kids from the Disney Channel with their swag hungry parents, the Olympic Water Polo Team, a loooong since retired Hall of Famer from the LA Dodgers. 

“A few film directors came for product, including a major science fiction series director who is about 90 years old and couldn’t hear or see to even know what he was looking at.  Finally, a very famous TV chef - who the fattest guy in the room ran over and hugged for what seemed like forever – was there and loved our product.  

“Max and Tony from ‘Dancing with the Stars’ and Sheila E [photo left] were great and hung out with us for a while.

“Only one celeb objected to photos and still took product – Morena Baccarin from the ABC televisions series ‘V’ [third from right in photo, right].  She’s obviously new to the scene and when this show is over she will be done and not realize how lucky she was. 

“Every other celeb was more than willing to take photos.  We made sure they had fun, and enjoyed the picture-taking – and it shows in the photos.   

“The truth and truly sad fact is that many of the celebs came to get free stuff to give to their friends and family for the holidays.  They’d discuss with their family members openly ‘Okay, I’ll give this to Auntie May, and give that to my best friend Charlotte, and this to ….’  

“The free stuff they were getting from other vendors included really expensive shoes, purses, candy, computer software, earrings, dolls, make-up, perfume and tons more.  

“I’ve been invited to the Oscars in March.  More on that after the holidays.  The word is that more celebs, bigger celebs will attend that gift event.  And I guess they won’t be stocking up on Christmas gifts!!!  Maybe.”

Richard@TheBPlot.com

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“RIDE” AFTER “SANTA SATURDAY”: THEBPLOT EXTENDED INTERVIEW

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!! I AM BEYOND THANKFUL TO EACH OF YOU - THEBPLOT'S VALUED READERS AND SUPPORTERS. THANK YOU ALWAYS FOR INVESTING YOUR CHERISHED FREE TIME IN VISITING THE SITE AND READING THE COASTER. CHEERS!!!

 

TheBPlot.com presents an extended exclusive Q & A, in which photographer Joe Oppedisano reveals the new gay “look,” tips for making your own racy home movie and more…

Bears, Otters, Wolves, Cubs – it will be an adult version of Animal Planet, Saturday (Nov. 28) at RIDE, a party produced by Brad Hurtado, for the bear and leather communities the evening of the Santa Saturday benefit.

“Thanks to the thousands of men who pour into town for a daytime benefit, the weekend has become a really great time to play in our city” said Brad.  “This year, all those randy men will be at the Stone Pony after the benefit for a night of sweaty fun.”

‘NO FOOD FOR YOU’ SAYS RESTAURANT OWNER TO EMPLOYEES… ‘HONESTY SYSTEM’ ANTIQUE DEALER… FISHY DONATION TO JENKINSON’S AQUARIUM… & MORE GOSSIP IN “YOU SAY WHO” FROM THE GUY WHO CHOOSES ‘SIDES’ OVER TURKEY ON THANKSGIVING

I spoke with Joe Oppedisano, photographer – known for his iconic hyper-masculine images – who will shoot a performance art piece with super-sexy models for his next project in the middle of RIDE.

TBP:  I need to get this out of the way – you worked with one of my all-time favorite people, the gorgeous Amy Sedaris (“Sex in the City,” “Strangers With Candy”) [photo right] whose brother wrote about her hating to look glam in photos.  The photos you took are both glam and awkward.  Tell me everything.

Joe:  Amy and I have been friends and neighbors for 15 years.  She needed press shots to promote her book “I Like You…” so I begged her to let me make her glam.  She came out of the dressing room with an amazing dress and fake flies all over her face. 

She has a great sense of herself and knows what she wants.  That’s why she has the gay boys wrapped around her finger.

TBP:  Levi Johnston (the bane of Sarah Palin’s existence) just…err… famously did his photo shoot for Playgirl.  How would you have photographed him?

Joe:  (Laughing) I think he is heaven.  He came out of nowhere and now is everywhere.  I would like to photograph him on a set like the White House lawn surrounded by political powerhouses in farm-type clothes holding pitchforks and shovels – very American Gothic.   

TBP:  Who is a bigger inspiration to you, James Dean, Joan Crawford or Brad Hurtado? 

Joe:  Brad and Joan are neck and neck…they are both such big b&%$#@!.  

TBP:  Ha.  So, what can we expect with your performance art show during RIDE?

Joe:  Expect a lot honey…and I am going to give you more than that.  It’s going to be hot.  I am bringing at least four models.

One model, a Hothouse exclusive, Junior Stellano, grew up in Asbury Park.  He is the epitome of the Latin-Italian super hunk.  Naturally ripped.  Gorgeous as can be.

Another model who is coming is Chris Raucci [photo right].  He is 25 years old and the 2010 version of a twink and he loves bears.

TBP:  What actually is a bear in the gay world?  Is Brad Pitt with that new shaggy beard a bear?

Joe:  I think a bear is a gay man, over 40 years old, who is hyper-masculine and can’t be bothered spending 15 hours grooming or eating salads.  Brad Pitt is just annoying.    

TBP:  After this weekend, I am betting everyone will have had a lesson in “bear.”

TBP:  You are also a videographer.  Any advice for guys planning on sexting or making an adult film of their own later on in the evening?

Joe:  (laughs) It’s all about lighting.  It’s all about angles…good close ups.  Just have fun…and go for it.  I have done two adult films.

TBP:  Out community has gone through muscle guys, twinks, smooth guys and more.  What is the up-and-coming new “gay look”?

Joe:  I am sooo into the next generation right now…guys who are 25 and under.  There are so many beautiful boys.  The kid Chris I spoke about earlier has the new look – not a twink, green eyes, skinny ripped body – shredded with a great attitude.

Brad’s AsburyParkEvents has more RIDE info.

Friendly reminder:  Saturday (Nov. 28), from 7 to 10 pm, TheBPlot and The Coaster readers are invited to the launch party for the 2010 Asbury Park Firefighters calendar in the Third Avenue Pavilion.  Click here for your invitation.  Which month will your favorite firefighter represent? 

Richard@TheBPlot.com

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MADISON MARQUETTE “SHIFTING FOCUS”: THEBPLOT EXCLUSIVE

Only at the TheBPlot and in The Coaster will you find an exclusive interview with Madison Marquette’s Pasqualina Delucia. 

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE BOARDWALK HOLIDAY EVENT LISTINGS

The fab Pasque took the time to reveal the company’s new focus after the recession, plans for Summer 2010, recent staff changes, with a point of assuaging fan’s concerns about potentially stalled progress on their beloved boardwalk. 

TBP:  With a smaller team (Courtney and Megan most recently gone) working towards Madison Marquette and the beachfront’s goals, boardwalk fans are concerned about the area’s future progress and next summer.   What will change?  What is going on?  

Pasqualina:  It’s true that we are leaner at the moment. We are shifting our focus from construction to programming, marketing and retail operations – making the boardwalk an even more vibrant and exciting shopping and entertainment experience.  To that goal, we will be bringing in additional key members to our staff, such as a Retail Manager and Marketing Coordinator.

In the interim, we have an amazing extended team stepping in to assist with events, marketing and programming. This includes, but is not limited to Jonathan Badaracco, manager of The Beach Bar, Teresa Minnick, manager of Wesley Grove and also strong support for our Washingon, DC group.

Also, we can’t forget Boardwalk tenants and Asbury Park community members who have lent – and hopefully will continue to lend – their support and involvement.  We are thankful for everyone’s efforts.

We will definitely continue to program great events in 2010 - even more than in 2009.  We are committed to doing more with less.  

Not to worry, Madison Marquette is dedicated to ensuring waterfront projects will continue to grow exponentially in years to come.

Read The Coaster every week for the most current news about the waterfront, boardwalk and surrounding cities. 

Richard@TheBPlot.com

THEBPLOT = THE AREA’S #1 FEATURES SITE… WITH MORE REVEALING INTERVIEWS THAN ANYWHERE ELSE

COMPLETE BOARDWALK HOLIDAY EVENT CALENDAR: SANTA BABY!

Beyond ooogling the gorgeous holiday display at Bodega Shoppe or sampling the best selection of holiday treats at Candyteria or sipping a delish sparkling cocktail creation at Watermark while gazing at the frigid beach or even buying the perfect shirt that hugs in all the right places at Style Rocket, the Asbury Park boardwalk has tons of fun on deck for you and your friends.

Again, TheBPlot isthe most convenient source to help you save the date and plan a festive holiday schedule.  Tweet it.  Print it.  Save it.  Just use it.  See you under the beachfront mistletoe…

FRIDAY, NOV. 27:

Come to the Boardwalk on November 27^th for Turquoise Friday: The Boardwalk version of Black Friday where you can escape the stress of the mall and stroll, shop and dine in relaxed comfort.

SATURDAY, NOV. 28: 

6 pm:  The lighting of the 40 Foot Christmas Tree in the Grand Arcade.  The tree lighting will be accompanied by the arrival of the Rock and Roll Chorus and a Rock and Roll Santa. 

7 pm to 10 pm:  The Asbury Park Firefighter 2010 Calendar is unveiled in the Third Avenue Pavillion.  Which month will you favorite firefighter represent?  Click here for TheBPlot’s exclusive behind the scenes photos and story.  

8pm: The fun shifts inside for Roller Derby in Convention Hall.

SUNDAY, NOV. 29: 

Every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas Santa will be in the Grand Arcade for photos. 

SATURDAY, DEC. 5: 

2 pm: The quintessential holiday event, The Nutcracker, will be performed by the Performing Arts Ensemble, in the legendary Paramount Theatre.

8 pm:  The All Stars Comedy in Convention Hall featuring Red Grant, Luenell, Michael Blackson, Joe Clair, Gary Owen and Joe Torry.

FRIDAY, DEC. 11: 

6 pm to 11:30 pm:  Sip, Shop & Rock Holiday Party from Metromix Jersey Shore and the Asbury Park Boardwalk in the Grand Arcade and Paramount Theater.  Drink, eat through the vendor village.  Bad Santa showing in Paramount Theater.  Band (provided by Shore Alternative), food and drinks in Arcade following movie.

FRIDAY, DEC. 18: 

4 pm to 8 pm:  Bring your pet to have photos taken with Santa in the Grand Arcade.

SATURDAY, DEC. 19: 

Noon to 8 pm:  Brielle Cyclery will be flashing back to the 80’s with its BMX Flash Back.  Bikes will be on display.  Check out the vintage bikes and watch old videos and see what the history of BMX is about.

1 pm (begins):  The Ocean Ave Flatland Jam going on in the Grand Arcade.  Check out the show as freestyle BMXers from all over the country show off their different styles. 

7 pm:  BMX After Party featuring Barry and the Penatrators, Shooter Mcgavan, and  Ducks and Drakes at the Wonder Bar.  Bands start at 8.  Raffles will be going on all night long.

SUNDAY, DEC. 20: 

11 am through the day:  Asbury Park Film Initiative and the Asbury Park Boardwalk are hosting a day of children’s movies in Paramount Theatre (free admission to all movies).

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 23: 

8 pm:  Asbury Park Film Initiative presents It’s a Wonderful Life in the magnificent and historic Paramount Theater (as part of the dinner and a movie series).  Escape the-  rushing around and make it your new holiday tradition.

Richard@TheBPlot.com 

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SCENE: THE PARANORMAL MUSEUM LAUNCH EVENT

Mayor Ed Johnson, City Manager Terry Reidy, terrestrial beings and other-worldly spirits celebrated the launch of Paranormal Books & Curiosities’ new Paranormal Museum, Friday (Nov 13, appropriately) and its first exhibition – “The Jersey Devil: Expedition of 1812.” 

WHERE WILL THIS HOTTIE BE ON SATURDAY AND WHAT DOES HE HAVE PLANNED FOR YOU? ALSO, LOCAL INVENTOR DISHES ABOUT SUNDAY'S AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS' SWAG TENT: ALL WILL BE REVEALED IN THE COASTER AND THEBPLOT, WEDNESDAY (NOV. 25)

“The museum is the culmination of years of work and research,” said Kathy Kelly, curator and owner.  “Everyone is invited to come, explore and decide for themselves.” 

The museum – great for all ages – reveals many little-known and never-before-known facts about the Leeds Devil (aka the Jersey Devil) and every confirmed sighting across the state.  It seems the Devil gets around more than an Asbury Park hooker, my friends – it doesn’t limit itself to the Pine Barrens.

Hottie Josh Gates of SyFy Channel’s “Destination Truth” just spent a day at the museum researching the Jersey Devil and taped an episode to air in March, according to the show’s website.

Check out photos from the event - only at TheBPlot:

              

More info:  Paranormal Museum, Paranormal Books & Curiosities. 

Richard@TheBPlot.com

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MODEL FIREFIGHTERS: WHAT YOU DON’T ALREADY KNOW ABOUT THE CALENDAR

TheBPlot was the first to bring you the scoop on the making of the Asbury Park Firefighter Calendar and the only outlet to take you behind the scenes of the photo shoot (click here).  Today, The Coaster and TheBPlot are the only media with the full-story.

The first Asbury Park Firefighter calendar will be unveiled next Saturday (Nov. 28) at the Third Avenue Pavilion, revealing an another wonderful side of some of the city’s biggest heroes.  

I had the honor of bearing witness to the photo shoot, spending time with our beyond-amazing firefighters and I could not wait to tell you about it – here and in The Coaster – before any other publications.

“We have joked about doing a calendar for years at the firehouse,” said Chief Kevin Keddy, leader of the busiest fire department, per capita, in New Jersey.  “I thought it was a great idea when ArtsCAP approached me after the Fall golf outing.”

WHINY STRIPPERS ARE NOT CUTE… BELLIGERENT  BANK MANAGERS AREN’T EITHER… BUT ‘SAFE’ WORDS AND BRIBING PEOPLE TO BE QUIET SURE IS FUNNY.  “YOU SAY WHO” – GOSSIP ALMOST AS DELISH AS YOUR GRANDMOTHER’S PUMPKIN PIE

The 2010 calendar, proceeds benefitting the Fire Department Building Fund and ArtsCAP, was photographed over two days in late October with fourteen  ladder men (one for each month and the front and back covers).

As award-winning photographer Alan Barnett’s camera began to click, the new models quickly became competitive; attempting to ensure their photo was the best by grabbing cool props including gear, saws, hoses and even the Jaws of Life.

“Their enthusiasm was contagious,” said Alan.  “When Jason Fazio appeared for his shoot, he had already applied mineral oil to his arms and he good-naturedly tried to outdo his friend Gavino by choosing a larger axe as a prop.  When I asked if he would scale a ladder to the second story of the firehouse, he was up there before I could focus my camera.” 

Wives, fiancé and even one mother-in-law stopped by to check out the making of the calendar, encouraging the guys further and energizing the interviews I conducted to develop a backgrounder to accompany calendar photo. 

“These guys are beautiful inside and out and we hope everyone sees that more now,” commented Michele Conklin, Firefighter Conklin’s wife, via TheBPlot.com.

Purchase the calendar for $15 and learn who considers himself shy and is looking for an extraverted lady, who wanted to “chase fires, not money,” who has “too many tattoos to mention” and who enjoys classic Russian literature.

One hysterical firefighter asked me to describe his “marital status as complicated” however I thought he might not find it as funny in 2010, so I left that comment out.

Every one of the firefighters I had the pleasure of meeting during the 16 hour shoot – many more than the 14 who are part of the calendar – was a kind, selfless, dedicated and fearless gentleman.  All honest-to-goodness life-saving heroes in the flesh. 

Buy one of them lunch or a cup of coffee the next time you see him.

“Bringing together two very important institutions was great,” said Dennis Carroll, president, ArtsCAP.  “I was most delighted with the hospitality – we all felt like were members of the department when we left.” 

The fourteen firefighters (twelve months plus one cover guy and one back-cover guy) – their names revealed here for the first time – who generously participated in the making of the calendar and deserve our thanks:  Marcus Blackmon, Patrick Castellano, Carney Conklin, Rick Dawson, Rich Dreyer, Jason Fazio, Jon Hart, Courtland Heyniger, Mike Mautner, Gavino Siciliano, Ronald Slinger, Andre Spann, Jamar Stephens and Christian Stevens.    

Aaaaaand on top of everything, I had once-in-a-lifetime Asbury Park moment; I slid down the gorgeous, original, brass, 30 foot long, finial topped fire pole…twice! 

So which of the equally fab firefighters will be the 2010 cover guy?  Which month will your favorite firefighter represent?  All will be revealed on Nov. 28^th.  Launch party is 7 pm to 10 pm at the Third Avenue Pavilion.  TheBPlot reader’s invitation, click here.      

The calendar will be available through ArtsCAP.org and local businesses, including: Bodega, Heaven, Mike’s Beach House and Shelter Home.  Supplies are limited.

Richard@TheBPlot.com

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DOMINICK DUNNE “OUT” IN “TOO MUCH MONEY”: EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW

UPDATE Dec. 28:  “Too Much Money” is Dominick’s dishiest book ever.  He always delivered in his books however this time, posthumously, he gives it his all – celebs and society people are so lightly veiled the reader gets unparallelled insight into the fancy pants lives of the ultra fancy pants. 

The book is as close to being in the Park Avenue sitting rooms and private planes of the rich and famous without getting arrested.  Every turn of the page is an “OMG I can’t believe that was happening” while the public was being spoon-fed the vanilla version from all the media.  Dominick gives us the yummy chocolate dish we want.  Totally great read!!!

Nov. 19:  This week, TheBPlot reprints a pinch of Page Six’s scoop “Novel Bares Dunne’s Secret,” about Dominick Dunne’s new book “Too Much Money” in stores Dec. 15.  Only at TheBPlot will you find the exclusive first-scoop storyline details and a first-look at the gorgeous art deco-inspired cover of “Too Much Money.” 

One of the best modern writers - famous for revealing the cracks in high-society’s foundation – Dominick Dunne (a Vanity Fair “must read first” correspondent) passed away this summer, however not before completing potentially one of his most revealing tomes ever, “Too Much Money,” on shelves courtesy of Crown Publishers Dec. 15. 

Page Six: 

Dunne outs himself in a conversation between Dunne’s character, Gus, and Gus’ attorney…

Lawyer: “Oh, you know, that you’re deep in the closet.”

Gus: “Well, maybe I am . . . So what. What you haven’t heard is that I’ve been celibate for almost 20 years.”

Gus: “Yes, I did . . . I feel quite relieved . . . I’m beyond 80 . . . Mustn’t have any more secrets. Can’t die with a secret, you know.  I’m nervous about the kids, even though they’re middle-aged men now.  Not that they don’t already know, I just never talk about it. It’s been a lifelong problem.”

The great Page Six continued, “Old friends of Dunne recall that his lover in the 1970s was Frederick Combs, who starred onstage in “The Boys in the Band” and in the movie version which Dunne produced in 1970 after leaving his wife, Lenny.  “They were very much in love,” said one friend.”

Any avid follower of Dunne might conclude that the character Kyle Cramden is based on former congressman Gary Condit, Konstantin Zacharias is based on Edmund Safra and Perla Zacharias is based on Dunne’s personal experiences with Lily Safra.  Which I looooooove.

TheBPlot First Scoop: 

In “Too Much Money,” Dunne revives the world he first introduced in his mega-bestselling novel “People Like Us”, and brings readers up to date on favorite characters such as Ruby and Elias Renthal, Lil Altemus and, of course, the beloved Gus Bailey. Once again, he invites us to pull up a seat at the most important tables at Swifty’s and venture into the innermost chambers of the Upper East Side’s most sumptuous mansions.

Gus Bailey’s propensity for gossip has finally gotten him into trouble—$11 million worth.  His problems begin when he falls hook, line, and sinker for a fake story from an unreliable source and repeats it on a radio program.  As a result of his flip comments, Gus becomes embroiled in a nasty slander suit brought by Kyle Cramden, the powerful congressman he accuses of being involved in the mysterious disappearance of a young woman.  Gus fears this could mean the end of him.

The stress of the lawsuit makes it difficult for Gus to focus on the novel he has been contracted to write, which is based on the suspicious death of billionaire Konstantin Zacharias.  It is a story that has dominated the party conversations of Manhattan’s chattering classes for more than two years. 

Zacharias’ convicted murderer is behind bars but Gus is not convinced that justice was served.  There are too many unanswered questions, such as why a paranoid man who was usually accompanied by bodyguards was without protection the very night he perished in a tragic fire. 

Konstantin’s hot-tempered widow, Perla, is obsessed with climbing the social ladder and, as a result, she will do anything to suppress this potentially damaging story and Gus is convinced she is the only thing standing between him and the truth.

“Too Much Money” is a dishy, exhilarating, fun, mischievous and compulsively readable tale by the most brilliant society chronicler of our time – the man who knew all the secrets and wasn’t afraid to share them. 

Mr. Dominick Dunne is missed greatly - Vanity Fair is not the same without him. 

RIP, Dominick Dunne (1926 - with a lot of amazing joy brought to a lot of people around the world, in between - 2009)

Reserve your copy of “Too Much Money” at Amazon today.

Richard@TheBPlot.com

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MORE FUN WITH “FOUND FOOTAGE” GUYS: WEB EXCLUSIVE

The Found Footage Festival guys, Nick Prueher and Joe Pickett, reveal the best thrift store in America and more in this web exclusive.  For TheBPlot’s interview last week, also published in The Coaster, click here.

Nick and Joe’s brilliant show is this Saturday (Nov. 14) at Asbury Lanes, 10 pm.  Doors open way earlier.

TPB:  How do you two decide whether a clip makes it in show?  Do you guys wrestle if you disagree?

Nick Prueher (Co-Curator, Found Footage Festival):  For us, the litmus test on whether a video makes the show is whether it is unintentionally funny.  Whatever the video was trying to do, it has to fail colossally, but in an entertaining way.  

We came to heads recently over how much of this “Rich Little VCR Charades” video to include in our VCR Games montage.  Rich Little keeps breaking out into these terrible impressions for no reason at all.  It’s painful, so the debate was how much could people handle.   I lobbied for less, but Joe wanted more.  We settled on something in between.

TBP:  Does the clip have to be old school and on VHS to be considered?  Are YouTube and EBay part of your research or solely brick and mortar thrift stores and audience members?

Nick:  We are decidedly old-school when it comes to video procurement, so we don’t take anything off the internet.  All of our videos are turned up by digging through video bins at thrift stores, browsing garage sales and even searching in garbage cans.  To us, the story of how we found a video is just as important as what’s on it, so taking footage off YouTube seems like cheating.

If anyone has found a video in or around Asbury Park, we highly encourage them to bring it to the show.  We love meeting people and hearing the stories of how they found particular tapes – it’s how we keep the show going.

TPB:  What’s a clip that has not made it in the show but is memorable?

Nick:  There is one video that I’ll never forget, no matter how hard I try.  It was this tape that a fan sent in to guitarist Steve Vai to win his affection.  In it, this young woman performs various odd sexual stunts that I can’t really describe in mixed company.  It’s pretty goofy, but the woman clearly has a few screws loose, so it’s a little more disturbing than funny.

TBP:  Do you see current-day clips that would be in the show 15 years from now?  Ever think, “I wish I could put that in the show now” – like a clip with Paula Abdul?

Nick:  Oh yeah, sometimes you don’t need any time or distance to appreciate something ironically.  The one DVD I bought as soon as it came out was R. Kelly’s “Trapped In a Closet” opus.  And just a couple of years ago, we found a DVD in a thrift store that was a training video for Elvis impersonators.

TBP:  In the Found Footage Festival, you use clips featuring Rue McClanahan, Goldie Hawn and other celebs.  Do you ever hear from the celebs or other subjects in your show?

Nick:  We haven’t heard from any of the celebs in our show, but we love tracking down the subjects of our videos.  Hearing from Julia Roberts really wouldn’t do much for me, but meeting the stunt man in an insurance safety video was a dream come true.

TBP:  The Asbury Park area has some great thrift stores.  What are some of the best thrift stores across the country?

Nick:  We’re really looking forward to hitting the Asbury Park thrift stores when we get to town.  One of our favorite thrift stores of all time is this place called Bishop’s Attic in Anchorage, Alaska.  It was this untapped goldmine of awesome VHS tapes.

TBP:  If you found a Michael Jackson clip would you use it?

Nick:  Most definitely…I wonder is “Captain EO” ever turned up on VHS.

TBP:  Finally…Nick, you worked at The Colbert Report which is the absolutely most consistently brilliant show on TV.   How did you get the politicians to sit down with the show’s corespondents and answer those fab questions?

Nick:  I don’t know exactly how it works, but people love being on TV, even if it means they may come off as jackasses. That basic principle has fueled “The Daily Show” and “Colbert” for many years. 

Richard@TheBPlot.com

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MY MOM SHARES A CHILDHOOD MEMORY OF LIVING IN GERMAN-OCCUPIED POLAND

Last week, my mom, read a short story that she wrote, at a workshop at the Crain House.  Her writing was about her life in Poland prior to coming to America at 10 years old.  A lot of the difficult memories she shares at her own pace, in her own way, in her own time with me still pain her greatly. 

ANOTHER SECRETLY SELF-HATING HOMO… RESTAURANT MOGUL’S SECRET PAST REVEALED… HALLOWEEN ‘BRIDE’S’ TWELVE-WEEK-LONG SECRET… & MORE, err… SECRETS YOU WANT TO KNOW IN “YOU SAY WHO” NOW 

I am so proud of my shy-ish mom for summoning the strength to tell one compelling story publicly.  She has never, ever, shared any of her writing with anyone else before now.  It has been 50 years in the making.

With her approval, I wanted to share her true story with you.  It does not have a title.  I don’t think it needs one right now:

It was early evening.  Zosia (my cousin) and my Aunt Katherine were both trying to tie on the wings of my costume.  I was an angel in the school’s Christmas Nativity Scene.  We were sitting on the bed of what served as the kitchen / bedroom / living room of our small three-room home, located on a farm in Godowa, Poland. 

The Germans had invaded and occupied Poland a few years before. 

I was happy and giggling with pride over my costume.  To a five year old, to be an angel – with a speaking part in an upper class man’s play – was a great honor. 

Zosia and my Aunt shared my joy.  Zosia, a few years older than me, was a skilled seamstress.  She sewed the gown and made the fragile wings.  My costume was beautiful. 

As we fussed with the wings, we were startled by the loud bang of the kitchen door being thrown open.  A man came in.  He was a stranger.  In a small farming town not too many strangers come to visit – especially after dark.

The stranger was in a Nazi uniform – a uniform that I, by now, had learned to recognize. 

The stranger seemed angry and agitated and was shouting at us.  I could barely understand what he was saying; as he was shouting he was pointing to a round object in his hand. 

I realized it was a hand grenade. 

“One of your neighbors reported that you are hiding a Jewish family in your stajnia (cellar),” he said.  “Show me where they are or I will kill you.” 

Again, pointing at the grenade.

My Aunt pleaded with him saying that we are not hiding anyone. 

“Please take all the food you want,” she said.  “Please don’t hurt the child.”

The man kept on shouting not hearing her pleas.  He threw down the grenade into the center of the room. 

We sat there – very still, silent – not daring to breathe. 

The grenade was a dud.  The grenade was a dud. 

The stranger left as suddenly as he came. 

Zosia, Aunt Katherine and I went to the Christmas Pageant.  I was the best angel – I did not forget my lines.

By Sophie Stach Virgilio      

Do you have a story you would like to share with your community?  Email me:  Richard@TheBPlot.com

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THEBPLOT READERS: YOU ARE INVITED… FIRST

ArtsCAP and The Asbury Park Firefighters

cordially invite

TheBPlot readers

to the unveiling of the

2010 ASBURY PARK FIREFIGHTERS CALENDAR

Which month will your favorite firefighter represent?

Saturday, November 28.  7 pm to 10 pm

Third Avenue Pavillion, Asbury Park

===============

Light refreshments.  Live music.

Calendars will be sold and firefighting heroes will be in attendance. 

===============

Proceeds from the sale of the calendar benefit

the Fire Department Building Fund and ArtsCAP.

NEXT THURSDAY: THE COASTER & THEBPLOT TAKE YOU INSIDE THE FIREFIGHTER PHOTO SHOOT – BEFORE ANYONE ELSE – WITH THE FULL SCOOP AND MORE BEHIND THE SCENES PHOTOS!

For TheBPlot’s exclusive preview photos, published last week, click here.

Richard@TheBPlot.com

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ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT “YOU SAY WHO”

Answers to the most common questions asked about “You Say Who” – the area’s only gossip column…

Q:  Where does your information come from?

A:  From you – from readers, from friends, from strangers, from people who work in the area or own businesses here, from local decision makers and influencers, from publicists. 

At the recent Zombie Walk, someone stopped me at the Brick Wall while I was on my way to the bathroom to give me a tip.  The column would not exist if it were not for sources - I am grateful for every one. 

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I guesstimate that 75 percent of the information I receive doesn’t have the substance behind it to publish is beyond mean or is inappropriate for TheBPlot.  Also, there are some stories I have in my pocket that I believe will turn into something down the road however timing-wise or fact-wise, I can’t publish it right now.    

Q:  How do you know that a source is telling the truth?

A:  I don’t.  I check out every piece of information independently – by working the phone, email, internet and other sources.  My name is behind everything on TheBPlot.com so I take a lot of time ensuring, as best I can, what’s on the site is solid.  I also have a coterie of dear attorney friends who believe in this site and guide me as needed.

Working for Howard Stern and Maury Povich – pre-interviewing and screening hundreds of people every week – and briefly with the “National Enquirer”, I’ve developed a reflexive sense about who simply doesn’t have the whole story, who has a grudge and who is completely lying.  Then there are also the sources who “pop” – these are the highly cherished sources who time and again come through with concrete info, quickly and succinctly.     

Q:  Will you reveal a source?

A:  Never.

Q:  Where did you get the idea for the column?

A:  Lord knows I love pop culture and gossip.  I read the autobiographies of some of the first – and best – gossip columnists Louella Parsons and Hedda Hopper (1930’s to 1960’s) and translated some of their ideas for Asbury Park.  Hedda was the first to develop “blind items” – brief stories that dont mention the subjects name. 

Today, I read the New York papers every day, flipping past the pressing news of the day first to my friend Richard Johnson’s “Page Six” and Cindy Adams’ column. 

Q:  Are the people you write about pissed?

A:  Sometimes, probably and no.  FYI, I have sources who give tips about themselves and their business partners and family, too.   My goal is not to make people miserable – it’s to make readers laugh, think and talk.  The soul of the column is meant to be fun. 

The people who present themselves as believing gossip is beneath them or it “tarnishes” the site, are the same people who stop me at Wegman’s asking me who I wrote about last week in “You Say Who”.

Q:  Who designed the photo in “You Say Who”?

A:  The talented Billy Mecca, publisher of BeachBlog.me and SALT.

Q:  Why have gosspy “You Say Who” on the site?

A:  A growing city as great as Asbury Park – with a huge spectrum of personalities and projects – needed an outlet for the stuff thats going that most people want to know about but can’t be discussed in general conversations. 

No matter what, most people love dish about their neighbors.  The feedback has been positive and the numbers don’t lie - traffic for the site is up more than 1,000 percent since ”You Say Who” launched.  It might be the Asbury Park area’s naughty little secret about secrets.

Have a question, comment or tip?  Email me:  Richard@TheBPlot.com

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“FOOTAGE” GUYS ARE MILES OF FUN

NEW (11.09.09): PURRRRFECT KITTENS NEED HOME. EMAIL Richard@TheBPlot.com.

One of the shows I produced at Maury Povich featured people who came across valuable objects in unusual ways. 

A guest on “Found Money” was a gentleman who told an amazing story of going to a Salvation Army in Florida and finding nine dirty fabric panels that turned out to be one of the first real and complete flat maps of the Earth.  It was priceless. 

Nick Prueher and Joe Pickett have taken their pot-of-gold of video clips found at thrift stores around the country and created the Found Footage Festival – a brilliant and original comedy show, founded in 2004, combining the most iconic, hysterical and sometimes cringe-worthy 1980’s video clips with on-the-spot, live commentary. 

GRANDE DAME OCEAN GROVE QUOTATIONS… DUNKIN’ DONUT QUOTATIONS… TAVERN’S TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS… & KITTENS!  ALL IN “YOU SAY WHO” RIGHT NOW. 

I spoke with the award-winning hosts, Nick, formerly of the David Letterman Show and The Colbert Report and Joe of The Onion, in anticipation of their show next Saturday (Nov. 14) at Asbury Lanes. 

TPB:  Every clip in your show is unbelievably great.  What’s the recipe for a fab Found Footage clip?

Nick:  Certainly, the nostalgia factor helps make certain videos great, but more than anything, we’ve found one common thread is that they involve people with a lot of ambition and very little talent.  Luckily for us, there are plenty of people out there like that with access to video equipment.

TBP:  Cartoon Chuck Norris with a lisp; men in wrestling singlets and thongs; Florence Henderson doing some odd neck movements with another girl – were the Reagan 80’s gayer than everyone realized?

Nick:  Yes, the proliferation of mustaches should have been our first clue.

TBP:  You guys are celebrating the show’s five-year anniversary.   What are each of your favorite all-time clips?

Nick:  It changes from time-to-time, but I’d have to say “Kirk’s 40th Birthday” is up there for me. It’s a home movie of a guy named Kirk and his biker friends celebrating his big day by eating a cake in the shape of naked woman, smoking an odd cigarette and watching ZZ Top videos.  

Joe:  I’m really enamored right now with an Austin (Texas) public access show called “At Home with English,” starring this adorable little man teaching English words to non-English speakers – it’s featured in our show.

TBP:  You are premiering a brand new crop of clips at Asbury Lanes.

NP: Yes – expect overacting pirates, furniture salesman, blowgun enthusiasts, an anthropomorphic Rubik’s Cube, drunk guys without shirts and dozens of bachelors in bad sweaters (video dating)…and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

TBP:  You guys have been friends since childhood.  I have to ask, if you were boyfriends who would do the cooking and who would drive the car?

NP: I don’t like driving, so Joe would definitely be behind the wheel.  By default, I would do the cooking, although I’m sure Joe would tire of my weird vegan recipes.  Luckily, this nightmare scenario will never happen.

TBP:  Thankfully, there is a ton of beyond funny 1980’s nightmares caught on video, though.  Congrats on the show. 

Web exclusive next Thursday: Nick reveals the best thrift store in America, the most memorable video and more.

Richard@TheBPlot.com

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THE FIRST ASBURY FIREFIGHTER CALENDAR: BEHIND THE SCENES

TheBPlot is the only place for a first look at - and a little scoop about - the making of the Asbury Park Firefighter 2010 Calendar (on sale Saturday, Nov. 28). 

Last Saturday and Sunday, 14 firemen came together for two good causes – raising funds for a new firehouse and ArtsCAP.  The guys were so fun, kind and modest and completely great sports.  I can not say enough about how wonderful these guys are.  We are incredibly lucky to have such amazing men – from Chief Kevin Keddy, down to the new recruits – protecting our City.  Buy ‘em a cup of coffee or lunch the next time you see one of them.

Some of the firefighter’s wives and girlfriends stopped by to watch the photo shoot, even one mother-in-law. 

The guys got so into the shoot they became competitive to make their individual photo session the best and most visual, debating who would use the Jaws of Life as a prop or hose with water shooting out onto Asbury Avenue.  It was super-fun to be a part of…I even got to slide down the beautiful, vintage finial-topped brass 30 foot long firepole – twice! 

Which of the 14 firefighters will be the 2010 cover-guy?  Save the evening of Saturday, Nov. 28 – NEW DATE – for the big reveal. 

The calendar was photographed and designed by award-winning photographer, Alan Barnett and produced by ArtsCAP with the assistance of Dennis Carroll and Ginny Otley.  TheBPlot’s Richard Virgilio is writing the copy.  

Special thanks to Chief Kevin Keddy for assisting in the coordination of the photo shoot and the fourteen fearless, kind and generous firefighters – ultimate gentleman – who donated their time. 

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Richard@TheBPlot.com

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