WOW! This is by far the largest Separated at Birth EVER! (on Jacksonville Confidential). Check out Jason, Robin, Linda, Adam, Jenn & Billy as they mirrored our very own Betsy on her red tricycle during the European Street - San Marco Christmas Party this past Sunday. Uncanny!
It's the holiday season and during this joyous time all sorts of mythical creatures come out of the woodwork; Santa Claus, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, Elves, Rainbow Bright, ......WHAT?!!?! That's right, Mark spotted Ms. Bright, with a new festive hair-color, entering the Target Super Center on Roosevelt Boulevard/US-17 this past weekend presumably doing some last minute Christmas shopping for The Color Kids and their Sprites.
We will be shutting the Jacksonville Confidential offices down at noon today and won't be back in full force until after the New Year. So we would like to say Merry Christmas and Happy New Years to all of our faithful readers. We hope you get everything you asked for this year and be safe.
The peeps over at Park Place Lounge in Riverside on King Street have been selling 2009 Calendars to benefit the Pediatric AIDs Foundation and our new friend Rachel was gracious enough to give us a copy and we, in turn, pass the goodness on to you guys. Check out Park Place Presents: Neighborhood Boys and see if you recognize any of the fellas.
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The movie doesn't come out for another 6 months (June 5th) but the official theater poster for Land of the Lost was released today. The re-make of the 1974 TV series stars Will Farrell and Anna Friel, here's the synopsis from IMDB - It looks like the Sleestacks, Chaka, and the rest of the gang will be back for this highly anticipated movie. We can't wait!A forest ranger along with his two children inadvertently stumble into a mysterious land populated by dinosaurs and other creatures, including the mysterious and dangerous race of Sleestak.
It's been a long time since we've heard from Our Close Friend, and internet Queen, Leslie Hall of Leslie & The Lys and what perfect timing she has. Just a few days before Christmas Leslie is here to show you how to make your very own Gem Sweater; all you need is a sweater, gems, puffy paint and cardboard. Check it!
Steve (owner of Kickbacks) might be grasping at straws this time with his most recent submission to our "Food Finds" category. Certainly you guys remember the very first find, Chicken Africas (which we have grown to LOVE), and who could forget the Worlds Largest French Fry & Chicken Italy? Now take a look at Nacho Hawaiian Islands. Maybe a little contrived.
Over 150,000 people have already viewed this naughty Christmas-themed compilation of Nigella Lawson "tidbits" so you may have already seen it, but it's so festively salacious you know you want to watch it again, and again, and again.
Submitted by Tony
We too hope that guys have a Merry, Blessed, Festive, Happy, etc. Christmas. We are so thankful to all of you guys who read Jacksonville Confidential daily and we couldn't think of a more sincere gift as the gift of song. Please enjoy this rendition of "Go Tell it on the Mountain" by Henrietta and Merna Nudorf.
How appropriate that we are posting this particular Websters Dictionary Word of the Year on the JC blog. Drum roll please........the 2008 Word of the Year is......Overshare - Although Overshare is not in the actual dictionary yet, it is a "part of emerging English". Watch the video below for much more.(v/n) to divulge excessive personal information, as in a blog or broadcast interview, prompting reactions ranging from alarmed discomfort to approval.
We told you guys back in May about the casting calls for Drag Queen RuPauls new show on Logo called Drag Race, well the premier episode will be aired, FINALLY, on February 2nd. We've got a sneak peek for you guys right here. For more behind the scenes videos and more on the contestants Click Here.
It's been years since we've watched this winter classic by Raymond Briggs, "The Snowman". We recall that it used to come on every year, but we dont remember what channel. Was this one of the annual HBO Christmas Classics? Anyway, its a great story with wonderful animation. Enjoy!
Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas is by far one of our most favorite Christmas movies of all time. Back in the day HBO always showed the Jim Henson creation throughout the entire month of December, but we've noticed that the pay movie channel has removed the classic from its roster for the past 5 or so years. WHY?!?!?! If you haven't seen Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas then you MUST see it. Here's some more info from Wikipedia: Here's a little clip from this magnificent movie.....Emmet Otter's Jug Band Christmas was a children's story by Russell Hoban first published in 1969. It was later made into a TV Christmas special by Jim Henson. The plot is reminiscent of The Gift of the Magi, by O. Henry.
The story tells about Emmet Otter and his widowed mother, who each want to buy the other something special for Christmas. They each are aware that the other wants something very particular and, unfortunately, very expensive.
Emmet, with the help of his friends, comes up with the idea of putting together a jug band and entering the local talent contest, which has a prize of $50. To do this, though, he has to punch a hole in the bottom of his mother's metal washtub to make a bass. Emmet's mother, meanwhile, takes the tool chest Emmet inherited from his father and pawns it to buy fabric for a new dress, so that she also might enter the talent contest. Neither is aware of the other's intentions or actions.
Also entering in the talent show at the extreme last minute is the Riverbottom Gang, who have put together a rock group. There are some run-ins between everyone leading up to the big event. Unfortunately, although Emmet's mother and the Jug Band get an excellent reception, the Riverbottom Gang wins the contest
On the way home, Emmet's mother consoles herself by humming while one of Emmet's friends plays the same tune on a kazoo. Suddenly, she realizes that their talents could work together and they improvise a duet with her song. As it happens, they are in earshot of Dr. Hopper's restaurant and the proprietor is so impressed at the group's talent that he hires them on the spot as regular entertainers for the business.
The original special was produced for HBO in 1977. It ran on that station yearly until 1979. In 1980, a heavily edited version began airing on ABC. This new version featured shortening of some songs and scenes, but also expands other scenes and songs. It also features the addition of a voice-over by Kermit the Frog. This ABC-edited version also began being aired on HBO in 1981. Because the later edit aired on ABC and HBO through the 80s, it is the more-widely known version of the special. The original 1977 version is currently available on DVD (with the "missing" material available as special features).
Rest in peace VHS Tapes. Apparently the very last tapes were shipped out of Palm Harbor Florida a little over 6 weeks ago. The remaining supply in the Distribution Audio Video warehouse was either given away or is headed to a local landfill as we speak. You had a good run VHS, but we can't say we will miss you and rewinding. Click Here for the more in depth story from Newsday.
Gay cross-dressing icon Rupaul has really outdone him/herself with this portrait of him/her as both Michelle and Barack Obama. A masterpiece!
A few more restaurants that you've probably heard of have closed in addition to The Bungalow on Park which we told you about last night. It looks like Pom's Thai Bistro (1974 San Marco Blvd) and Corner Brasserie (their website is even down now) in San Marco (at 1430 San Marco Blvd) have also closed their doors forever. We knew that it was just a matter of time until Pom's shut down. That's what happens when you sell extremely overpriced Thai food and when a much better Thai restaurant (Basil Thai & Sushi) comes along. It is a true shame, however, to see the Corner Brasserie close its doors.
***CORRECTION - Pom's is NOT closing, Pom himself is leaving the restaurant and the owners of Square One are taking over. They will be changing the name to just Thai Bistro, lowering the prices, and keeping all of the same staff on hand. Thanks to Robin and Robbie for the update.
For the first time in 36 years someone guessed the EXACT PRICE of their showcase on yesterdays The Price Is Right. Thats right, not since 1972 has anyone achieved this fantastic feat. Check out the video that we swiped from Best Week Ever.
OMG!!! There's a new addition to The Muppets movies coming on this evening (Wednesday, December 17th) called A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa. It starts at 8PM on NBC and will be filled with cameos from some of our favorite actors like Nathan Lane, Whoopi Goldberg, Jane Krakowski, Uma Thurman, and a few others. An update of the late 1800's Yes, Virginia Story answering the question of whether or not there is a Santa Claus, this movie is sure to become an instant classic. Set your DVR's!
We just got wind that The Bungalow on Park closed its doors for good today due to a mountain of unpaid bills. The final straw, their payroll checks bounced this week according to our source. Unfortunately, we weren't surprised by the news, we wish the best of luck to everyone who is now without a job so close to Christmas.
Last night staff members Joe(y) and Robyn had the privilege of going to a practice dinner at the new O’Brothers Irish Pub (1521 Margaret Street). Seated in a cozy spot with a great view of the bar (which was brought over and fitted into the new space from Preservation Tap & Chop House) they were served a couple of glasses of wine. Soon after, Curt (one of the owners) brought over a basket for Joe(y) and Robyn to randomly choose their appetizer. Robyn drew, and blindly picked the French Onion Soup. Neither being fans of soup, in particular, both surprisingly enjoyed it. Next, Jenny (the waitress) brought the basket for them to choose their main course. Joe(y) pulled the BBQ Short Ribs and Robyn got the Wedge Salad with Chicken. Both meals were great. Robyn’s salad was good and more than she could finish, and Joe(y)’s ribs were very tasty. After the dinner Joe(y) and Robyn opted for the Irish Car Bomb for dessert, it was "the bomb". Soon after, they checked out the rest of the space. Upstairs was very inviting with seating for about 20 people. Outside in the back was also quite nice. It's covered by an awning and has space heaters and dividers over the booth areas. There will be a gaming area beyond that. We are leaving out photos of the food in this review because of the dimly lit space, but we do have a few (although lackluster quality) pics of the bar, upstairs, outside, and Joe(y) and Robyn downing some Irish Car Bombs. We will do an official review once the restaurant is open to the public, which should be sometime this weekend.
It's officially official, the train wreck of a store that was Hayden's Haberdashery in the Shoppes of Avondale is closed and the space is FOR RENT. Mark just sent us over this pic as proof. Good riddance to bad service.
Did any of you guys out there happen to catch the 100 tuba players performing Christmas songs at the Jacksonville Landing last week? If not, you can watch it here thanks to video from Scene from Florida. As you can see, the event attracted quite a large crowd. Have a very merry tuba Christmas.
We are shivering with anticipation for the upcoming season of Lost that starts on January 21st. ABC just debuted another promo for the fast-approaching series opener and this season looks to be a doozie. Check it.
Take a listen to this hilarious clip that Laura sent over to us. Some guy decided to have a little fun at a Wal-Mart during Black Friday, one of the busiest shopping days of the year.
WOW! This guy is, like, TOTALLY EFFIN GAY! Meet Krayon Brooks (seriously) gossip hound and Sephora customer service representative extraordinaire in New York. Now listen as Krayon (LOL) goes on a diatribe about Beyonces new CD I Am Sasha Fierce. Who the frick edited this thing?
If you're a little bored and a lot in the Christmas spirit check out A BetaMax Christmas. The site is showing non-stop holiday movies with a classical 80's themed backdrop. Kick back and reminisce.
This is just too effin funny. Watch as this Korean fellow channels Mariah Carey and sings splendid versions of her hit songs "Touch My Body" and "We Don't you love my C---?Belong Berong Together".
A very special Jacksonville Confidential reader sent us over a picture from the front yard of some very confused individuals. Apparently these guys didn't have a blow-up snowman to go along with his Christmas Reindeer so they just used a ghost from their Halloween decorations. Did they think no one would notice?
We've been anticipating Marvel Comics' newest venture into the world of the X-Men with X-Men Origins : Wolverine for quite some time. The movie doesn't come out until May 1st of next year, but the HD trailer for it just came out today and it looks AWESOME! Check it out...
You know it's Christmas in Jacksonville when you pass by the corner of Park and Donald Streets in Riverside and you see this.......
Many congratulations to Florida Governor Charlie Crist. Governor Crist was wed in holy matrimony this past Friday, December 11th, to Carole Rome. What a wonderful right it is to legally marry.
O'Brothers Irish Pub is one step closer to being finished. Jacksonville Confidential staff members Joe(y), owner of Compound Graphics, and local artist Grant Thornton (seriously, check his stuff out) were at the site earlier today putting up all the new signage and it's looking quite nice, see.....
Another fabulous job by Compound Graphics.
It looks like sometimes being a total homo and video taping yourself lip-syncing and dancing to your favorite pop song really can lead to wonderful things. Earlier this week we posted this video of MrEladdy "performing" a new song called Circus by Britney Spears. Well, apparently, Britney (or the people who run her official website) saw the video and loved it so much that she asked MrEladdy to do a new video specifically for BritneySpears.com of another new song from the Circus album called Kill The Lights. This is every little girls dream.....Check it!
A few of us decided to head over the river to the Southside to check out Wild Wing Cafe (4555 Southside Blvd.) last night and, well, we have mixed feelings about the place. First of all, the joint is HUGE with really high ceilings. TVs are mounted at just about every vantage point throughout the building. The place was packed and EXTREMELY LOUD! We had a table of 9 and found it difficult to hold a conversation with anyone who wasn't sitting directly next to us.
Our server was adorable and she did a pretty good job taking care of us and making sure we had everything we needed. Our drinks were brought out and refilled without asking and promptly.
We all ordered our various wing choices (they have a whopping 33 different flavors with varying degrees of heat), salads, vegetarian quesadillas, fries, onion rings, and etc. We did have to wait a while for the initial dishes (salads, fries, and onion rings) to arrive. The salads were good, the fries were as well, but the onion rings were DISGUSTING. They were mushy and the batter was pretty old and gross.
Then the cornucopia of wings arrived. Honestly, the wings were pretty darn good. We noticed that right next door was a Hooters and we would definitely choose Wild Wing Cafes wings over Hooters' any day. Within a matter of minutes all that was left on the table was carnage, we were all quite full.
We suppose Wild Wing Cafe deserves a 2.5 our of 5 stars, but we only give it that high of a rating because the wings were so good. We could do without everything else about the place. The ambiance, the clientele, the rest of the food. We wouldn't be adverse to attending a sporting event at WWC, but as for everyday happy hour or dinner, we'll stick to Riverside.
Did you guys happen to catch the first season of The Real Housewives of Atlanta on Bravo? If so, you are certainly familiar with NeNe Leakes (the "outspoken one" and our favorite) and her supposed riches. Well, looks like not all is what it seems behind the huge security gates and luxury vehicles in Atlanta. Mr. and Mrs. Leakes are, according to this news clip from Fox 5 in Atlanta, living WAY beyond their means. Watch as the I-team sheds some light on the real state of affairs in the housewife's life. NeNe, we still love ya girl!
The peeps over at Mental Floss have posted a list of "12 Things You Might Not Know About A Christmas Story", and since it is our most favorite Christmas movie of all time, we wanted to pass this bit of useless knowledge on to you. Tis the season. We did want to note that after reading this list, a few Jacksonville Confidential staff members admitted, in confidence, that they have actually seen one of the Scott Schwartz pornos and that he's really quite disgusting.1. Jack Nicholson was very interested in playing Ralphie’s dad. But casting (and paying) Jack would have meant doubling the budget, so he was removed from consideration. Director Bob Clark – who didn’t know Nicholson was interested at the time – says Darrin McGavin was the perfect choice, and I’d have to agree. I think Jack would have been too much of a scene-stealer.
2. What does Porky’s, the raunchy ’80s teen sex movie, have to do with a wholesome film like A Christmas Story? Bob Clark directed both – Porky’s in 1982 and A Christmas Story in 1983. If Porky’s hadn’t given him the professional and financial success he needed, he wouldn’t have been able to bring A Christmas Story to the big screen.
3. For anyone keeping count, Ralphie says he wants the Red Ryder BB Gun 28 times throughout the course of the movie. That’s approximately once every three minutes and 20 seconds.
4. Peter Billingsley, AKA Ralphie, has been good friends with Vince Vaughn since they both appeared in the CBS Schoolbreak Special (their version of the after-school special) in the early ’90s. He doesn’t do much acting these days, but he did make a surprise appearance on the “Vince Vaughn Wild West Comedy Show” in Memphis, Tenn., in 2005. Peter’s doing quite well for himself, though. He was the executive producer of Iron Man and had a brief bit as William Ginter Riva. Peter also executive produced Vince’s latest movie, Four Christmases (which he also had a cameo in), as well as 2006’s The Break-Up.
5. Mythbusters tested whether it was possible to get your tongue truly stuck on a piece of cold metal. Guess what? It is. So don’t triple dog dare your best friend to try it.
6. Scott Schwartz, who played Flick (who stuck his tongue to the frozen flagpole), was submerged in the adult film industry for a number of years. He got out in 2000 to try to become a mainstream actor again...
7. Next time you’re in Cleveland, you can visit the original house from the movie for only $7.50. It was sold on eBay in 2004 for $150,000. Collector Brian Jones bought the house and restored it to its movie glory and stocked it up with some of the original props from the film, including Randy’s snowsuit.
8. Director Bob Clark got the idea for the movie when he was driving in the car with a date. He heard Jean Shepherd on the radio doing a reading of his short story collection, “In God We Trust… All Others Pay Cash,” which included some bits that eventually ended up in A Christmas Story. Clark said he drove around the block for an hour until the program ended, which his date was not too happy about.
9. The Wonder Years was inspired by A Christmas Story. In fact, in one of the last few episodes, Peter Billingsley appeared as one of Kevin Arnold’s roommates.
10. The real Red Ryder BB Gun was first made in 1938 and was named after a comic strip cowboy. You can still buy it today for the low, low price of $44.99. But the original wasn’t quite the same as the one in the movie – it lacked the compass and sundial that both the Jean Shepard story and the movie call for. Special versions had to be made just for A Christmas Story.
11. While we’re talking shopping – you know you want the leg lamp. Put it in your window! Be the envy of your neighbors! It’s a Major Award! You can buy it here, but if you’re not feeling quite so flamboyant you can get a replica that serves as a nightlight for $14.99. The people who own the house also run a gift shop, and they sell pretty much everything you could possibly want from the movie – the decoder pin ($7.99), Lifebuoy soap ($3.99), the leg lamp variants mentioned above, and even pieces of the original house.
12. There’s a sequel of sorts, My Summer Story, which came out in 1994. Kieran Culkin plays Ralphie, Mary Steenburgen is his mom, and Charles Grodin is his dad.
Jacksonville Confidential reader Tiff has informed us of a truly special event happening this Saturday at Hemming Plaza. From 10am to 2pm the City of Jacksonville is holding a FREE holiday extravaganza featuring Santa Claus (you can get your picture taken with him) and Mayor Peyton (you MIGHT be able to get your picture taken with him). There will also be TONS of other stuff going on like arts & crafts, hay rides, and live entertainment. It definitely sounds like fun, so pack up the rug-rats and go have some fun Downtown this weekend.
Jimmy and Debora Rouse are from right here in Jacksonville and they are certainly destined for fame. Check out these local Christian crooners singing their song "Hush". It's quite the treat! (Wink)
Has anyone else noticed lately that Shirley Green/Stinky Boo Boo/Jacksonville Sasquatch has been fused to that damn red purse. We want to know WTF is in there. We need to know. Robyn spotted her yesterday at the base of the Fuller Warren with her tote and said the thing was bulging so much it was practically ripping at the seams. Gold Bouillon? The Hope Diamond? What do you think she's got stashed away?
How many of our fave gays didn't go to work today? Count of hands......nice, a ton of you. Now did you call in because of the Day Without A Gay initiative against Prop 8 (and Amendment 2)? Or, did you call in because you partied way too hard last night to handle the straight people at work today? Either way, today is "Day Without A Gay" day and we encourage everyone to do their part to see that everyone has the same rights, straight or gay.
