Thursday, April 30, 2009
To blog.....or not to blog? Is that a question?
I recently read a post on a blog that complained about not receiving comments.....That the blog would die if no one was interested enough in the content to write a comment.
And I thought about that post and how it might be meaningful to me. Do I write this blog to receive comments? Do I write this blog to reach an audience? Do I write this blog to connect with a segment of the internet online populace?
First of all I write my blog for myself. It serves as a diary of my travels and adventures and as a way for me to remember the many, many people that I meet during my journey. It also serves as an online guide for my family to find out where I am and what I am up to! Although we have Facebook and MySpace status posts, sometimes it is nice to have a commentary with pictures that says a little about what we did, who we met, and if we had a good time.
Secondly I post about current affairs in the gay community, like the recent votes on gay marriage and the Hate Crimes bill in the senate. I don't really think I am giving any up-to-the-minute bulletins on these issues but I am giving myself a permanent record of what is happening today. The links that I post might all go down but my blog will say that this happened on this day.
I have read a lot of very sophisticated opinions in the blogosphere and the editorial community about citizen bloggers and how everyone can put their thoughts out here in cyberspace now that blogging is for everyone. My thought is that every one who does blog is a person who wants their thoughts to be out there at least once in their lifetime. They want to say something however trivial and have it matter. In the old days we would leave a note behind, today we leave a blog.
And I just want to add that whenever I read some of my history in my blog and reconnect with old friends, it really does bring a tear to my eye and a smile to my face. Thank you, everyone!
Countess Bedelia 4/30/2009 09:22:00 PM
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Another historic vote in New England!
The Maine state Senate voted 21 - 14 in favor of legislation that would permit same-sex couples to marry under state law. The Senate also defeated an amendment to the bill that proposed putting the question of marriage equality for same-sex couples before voters.
The marriage bill now moves to the House of Representatives.
The marriage bill now moves to the House of Representatives.
Maine and New Hampshire gay marriage and the Hate Crime Bill are just one vote away from being passed.
Countess Bedelia 4/30/2009 05:44:00 PM
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Wednesday, April 29, 2009
"The times they are a-changin"
Two big votes today !!
N.H. Senate Approves Same-Sex Marriage, Concord, NH, April 29,2009
New Hampshire is one step closer to becoming the fifth state to legalize same sex marriage. Wednesday, the state Senate voted to allow gay and lesbian couples in the Granite State to marry.
U.S. House passes "hate crime" bill that Bush opposed, Washington DC, April 29, 2009
The Democratic-led U.S. House of Representatives Wednesday approved an expansion of federal "hate crime" laws -- an effort that former Republican President George W. Bush had opposed.
On a vote of 249-175, the House passed and sent to the Senate a bill backed by the new Democratic White House to broaden such laws by classifying as "hate crimes" those attacks based on a victim's sexual orientation, gender identity or mental or physical disability.
On a vote of 249-175, the House passed and sent to the Senate a bill backed by the new Democratic White House to broaden such laws by classifying as "hate crimes" those attacks based on a victim's sexual orientation, gender identity or mental or physical disability.
A big CONGRATULATIONS! to Judy Shepard for her tireless work to get this bill enacted for the past 10 years.
Countess Bedelia 4/29/2009 07:13:00 PM
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Tony Gubelman "You Make Me Feel Brand New"
The Countess had an email tonight from Tony Gubelman, one of the entertainers at Rumpy's Tavern. I saw Tony perform last Friday night and he always has a great show but when I video at Rumpy's Tavern it is just too dark to see.
I happened upon this video on You Tube which really shows Tony's fantastic range. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Countess Bedelia 4/29/2009 12:44:00 AM
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Monday, April 27, 2009
A visit to the Summer Palace
It was a long, cold, snowy winter in New England this year and The Countess only made one visit to the Summer Palace during that time. If you ever watched the movie "Dr. Zhivago" and saw the Summer Palace in Winter, you can imagine my distress...
Fortunately the deck looked nothing like that nightmare image. The temperatures were around 80 degrees and it was a balmy weekend to spend outside....
I adore Tony and am so happy that he will be playing in two weeks at the Richie duPont Benefit to help the Berkshire Theatre Festival education programs.
Other than the guy who wanted a fight, we had a great night. Steve was there and Andrew, Troy's significant other, and they always make The Countess happy....
In fact Andrew accompanied me the next day to a performance by Jonathan Epstein at the Berkshire Theatre Festival. Andrew is the proprietor of the most fabulous inn in Lenox, Harrison House.
I'll by joined by the fabulous Peter, the Countess duBarry herself !!! 
Fortunately the deck looked nothing like that nightmare image. The temperatures were around 80 degrees and it was a balmy weekend to spend outside....
Saturday night The Countess was invited to a party in Otis (maybe 10 miles away) and a Comedy Improv in North Adams (maybe 30 miles away) ......but Rumpy's Tavern is right around the corner. It was No.Contest! Rumpy's won out and would have anyway because my favorite performer was playing there that night. Of course it is TONY LEE THOMAS!!!!
I adore Tony and am so happy that he will be playing in two weeks at the Richie duPont Benefit to help the Berkshire Theatre Festival education programs.
Every once in awhile it happens when you go to bars......there is someone who wants to fight. If you see this man in Rumpy's Tavern or any other bar in the area, DO NOT TALK WITH HIM. He does not want to be sociable. (SHE is very nice.) Enough said.
Other than the guy who wanted a fight, we had a great night. Steve was there and Andrew, Troy's significant other, and they always make The Countess happy....
In fact Andrew accompanied me the next day to a performance by Jonathan Epstein at the Berkshire Theatre Festival. Andrew is the proprietor of the most fabulous inn in Lenox, Harrison House.
Flowers are in bloom as you pull into the driveway. If you are coming to the area to enjoy all the theater, Tanglewood, museums, etc, etc, etc, check into Harrison House for a unique experience with a wonderful host.
Also if you are in the area, please check out a performance at the Berkshire Theatre Festival. The Countess has seen every play they have produced for the past several years and I can tell you without reservation that you will see theater here as good as Broadway. And in between productions you will find little gems such as the one I got to witness last Sunday....
Jonathan Epstein needs no introduction to New England audiences and an afternoon spent listening to him explain Shakespeare's sonnets was one of the most entertaining afternoons that I have had. Why did I not know that the sonnets were all about sex? Thank you, Jonny, for explaining this to me.
I'll be back in two weeks to attend the Richie duPont benefit at Firefly in Lenox. Hope to see you all there....
I'll by joined by the fabulous Peter, the Countess duBarry herself !!!
And after the benefit we will all walk up the street to Rumpy's Tavern and have a dance with Troy....
Methinks the summer has begun !!!
Countess Bedelia 4/27/2009 06:17:00 PM
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Friday, April 24, 2009
A week in New York City
My dates for a night on the town ..... the "Our Hit Parade" show at Joe's Pub...
Matt, Daiva, and Phillip
My pal, Jenn Harris, and her MANnequin sing up a storm....
Jenn, just back from Aruba, brought back an outfit to perform in.....
"Our Hit Parade", the big finale....
Next The Countess was off to the Paradise Lounge to see "Pepper 'N Sam" perform their crazy cabaret act, Death by Vaudeville....
"Pepper" turns out to be Salty Brine, a fabulous entertainer. The Countess is in love!
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My last night in town was to celebrate Matt's birthday at a dinner held at Lil Frankie's. Matt invited his nearest and dearest friends and we all had a great time.
Then it was off to the karaoke bar for a little singing. Jenn and Matt are really into this one!
I also got to see three plays, met up with a few other friends for dinners and brunches, and just had the best time. Now it's off to the Berkshires for more mischief and fun !!
Matt, Daiva, and PhillipWhere The Countess met New York's most fabulous DJ, Jonjon Battles....
The hosts of "Our Hit Parade", the multi-talented Neal Medlyn and Bridget Everett....
My pal, Jenn Harris, and her MANnequin sing up a storm....
Jenn, just back from Aruba, brought back an outfit to perform in.....
"Our Hit Parade", the big finale....
Next The Countess was off to the Paradise Lounge to see "Pepper 'N Sam" perform their crazy cabaret act, Death by Vaudeville....
"Pepper" turns out to be Salty Brine, a fabulous entertainer. The Countess is in love!
My last night in town was to celebrate Matt's birthday at a dinner held at Lil Frankie's. Matt invited his nearest and dearest friends and we all had a great time.
Then it was off to the karaoke bar for a little singing. Jenn and Matt are really into this one!
I also got to see three plays, met up with a few other friends for dinners and brunches, and just had the best time. Now it's off to the Berkshires for more mischief and fun !!
Countess Bedelia 4/24/2009 04:03:00 PM
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Tuesday, April 21, 2009
A brief update...
So The Countess has been in New York City for the past week and has had the most amazing adventures and met lots of new friends. I'll be updating in a couple of days when I get home and upload all my pictures.
I just want to thank my beautiful friends, Matt, Daiva, and Jenn. Each one has included me, entertained me, and allowed me to share in the most amazing fun! I adore each of you and thank whoever for bringing you into my life.
So stay tuned.....pictures are coming!!!
I just want to thank my beautiful friends, Matt, Daiva, and Jenn. Each one has included me, entertained me, and allowed me to share in the most amazing fun! I adore each of you and thank whoever for bringing you into my life.
So stay tuned.....pictures are coming!!!
Countess Bedelia 4/21/2009 01:57:00 AM
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Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Forget about taxes.....we are off to NYC!!
Back to New York City for fun and frolics!!
It's tax day! What better time to come to Joe's Pub and hear the pop songs of today given loving caresses by a cavalcade of downtown talent?
Join Bridget Everett, Neal Medlyn and Kenny Mellman for Our Hit Parade! Named a Top 10 Cabaret Show of 2008 by TimeOut NY! Downtown stars perform the Top 10 pop hits of today!Special guests include Jessica Delfino, Jenn Harris, Taylor Mac, Molly Pope, Lady Rizo, Adrienne Truscott, VIDS, and more!
Tickets are $20 at http://www.joespub.com/Visit http://www.ourhitparade.com/ to hear a pop cover for every day of 2009, performed by Kenny Mellman and friends!
You know this is where The Countess will be tonight!
Countess Bedelia 4/15/2009 08:01:00 AM
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Sunday, April 12, 2009
Happy Easter, Peeps!
Hope you all had a great day!
Countess Bedelia 4/12/2009 08:28:00 PM
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Friday, April 10, 2009
The duPont Benefit....
I'm sure I will post about this as the date gets closer, but in one month the Fourth Annual Richie duPont Benefit will be happening. The Countess is a proud sponsor of this event which benefits the "BTF Plays" acting camp for kids.
Save the date. Saturday night, May 9th.
Last year we had such a fun time. The Countess danced and danced to the wonderful sounds of the Grand Army Arrows.
Lots of old friends and new were in attendance.
Can't wait for this year's party !!! Hope to see many of you there this year!
Countess Bedelia 4/10/2009 01:09:00 PM
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Sunday, April 05, 2009
Prince Troy's Birthday Party !!!
Prince Troy rules his kingdom of Rumpy's Tavern with an iron fist. Don't.Fuck.With.His.Majesty......
On the occasion of his 35th birthday, a proclamation went out across the realm declaring Friday, the Third of April, as Prince Troy Day in the Berkshires.
His partner, Andrew, attended the Royal Ball that night.
Entertainment was provided by the always fabulous Tony Lee Thomas.
The Countess made a new friend, Evan. Evan is a big BTF fan and I am looking forward to seeing him again this summer.
Steve and James were having fun. James is looking for a job in the National Parks system if you know of any openings!
Kerry and Steve from BTF gave a big welcome to Princess.
As I walked in the door that night, Troy exclaimed, "I knew you would come!"
Hope you had as much fun as I did at your party, dear friend. See you soon.
Countess Bedelia 4/05/2009 05:10:00 PM
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Friday, April 03, 2009
New York City adventures...
I can't believe it has been two weeks since I was in New York City. On that Friday night I attended "Our Hit Parade" at Joe's Pub with one of my most handsome boy friends, Matt....star of stage and screen. There were lots of stars in attendance that night, both in the audience and on the stage. An old aquaintance was in the audience and described my turn on stage in an email to friends....
"most of all The Countess, who wound up as part of a dancing contest on the stage in which she didn't dance but pranced around showing what looked like $100,000 worth of jewelry and fur. Needless to say she won the contest. She then returned to the table where she joined the dozen or so gay men who accompanied her."
I don't think I could describe it better myself....LOL! I got to meet Bridget Everett who cohosts the show with Neal Medlyn and see the beautiful and funny Jenn Harris rap with Barbie dolls.....Hilarious! One of my best Berkshire Theatre pals, James Barry, dressed up as a priest to sing a hilarious rendition of Kelly Clarkson's hit "My Life Would Suck Without You". The part of the altar boy was sung by another BTF alumni who shall remain anonymous. They were very naughty!!
Here is a picture of the cast in their big finale number.....
On Saturday night Matt, Jenn, and I went to Daiva's show "Two Girls for Five Bucks" at Ars Nova. Daiva and her friend, Cathleen Carr, conceived, wrote, and produced this show, developing it over the years out of a series of sketches.
Such a talented duo. I hope the show gets picked up somewhere else. It deserves another showcase.......Berkshire Theatre Festival maybe....hint! hint!
My dates, Matt and Jenn......
Daiva and The Countess having drinks with the everyone after the show......
Another highlight....
"most of all The Countess, who wound up as part of a dancing contest on the stage in which she didn't dance but pranced around showing what looked like $100,000 worth of jewelry and fur. Needless to say she won the contest. She then returned to the table where she joined the dozen or so gay men who accompanied her."
I don't think I could describe it better myself....LOL! I got to meet Bridget Everett who cohosts the show with Neal Medlyn and see the beautiful and funny Jenn Harris rap with Barbie dolls.....Hilarious! One of my best Berkshire Theatre pals, James Barry, dressed up as a priest to sing a hilarious rendition of Kelly Clarkson's hit "My Life Would Suck Without You". The part of the altar boy was sung by another BTF alumni who shall remain anonymous. They were very naughty!!
Here is a picture of the cast in their big finale number.....
On Saturday night Matt, Jenn, and I went to Daiva's show "Two Girls for Five Bucks" at Ars Nova. Daiva and her friend, Cathleen Carr, conceived, wrote, and produced this show, developing it over the years out of a series of sketches.
Daiva Deupree and Cathleen Carr
Such a talented duo. I hope the show gets picked up somewhere else. It deserves another showcase.......Berkshire Theatre Festival maybe....hint! hint!
My dates, Matt and Jenn......
Daiva and The Countess having drinks with the everyone after the show......
Another highlight....
I also managed to get over to see "God of Carnage" starring....
Jeff Daniels, Hope Davis, James Gandolfini, and Marcia Gay Harden
The play opened to rave reviews. Get in town to see this one. Everyone knows The Countess is a big "Sopranos" fan and when I had a chance to see James Gandolfini in person, on stage, there was no way I would pass it up. It's an experience just to sit in the audience in this very fast paced, dark comedy. James literally explodes half way through the play! Shades of Tony Soprano! Wonderful! Wonderful!
..........
Another BTF alumni, Tommy Schrider, has been starring in "Greek Holiday" at the Abingdon Theatre. It was delightful to see Tommy and have a chat with him after the Saturday matinee. He got a nice mention in the Variety review: "Without actually dropping to his knees and begging for love and understanding, Schrider shrewdly taps into the good-little-boy appeal of Alex's nebbishy persona." Sadly the run ended on March 29th, so you missed your chance to see it.
........
You will be able to see both Tommy Schrider and James Barry when they star in "The Einstein Project" at the Berkshire Theatre Festival this summer.
.......
Can't wait to do this all over again in a couple of weeks!!!!
Countess Bedelia 4/03/2009 09:14:00 AM
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