My Top 5 Obsessions This Week

1) Strike A Pose ( now streaming ) is a fascinating look into the lives of one of the most famous troupe of dancers in the world. In 1990  a group young male dancers from varied backgrounds joined Madonna for The Blonde Ambition tour and their lives would never be the same. This heartfelt documentary takes us into the current world of Kevin, Salim, Carlton, Jose, Luis and Oliver as they reflect back on HIV, fame and the friendship that bound them together along with stories of the iconic Madonna.

2) The Handmaid's Tale  a Hulu original series set in a not to distant future ( especially relevant in this political climate) where disease has made many women barren. An unsettling political regime has now taken over for protection of the country's natural resources- in this case fertile women. The women are suddenly fired from jobs, unable to access electronic funds, own property or speak for themselves. The fertile women are ear tagged and farmed out to couples as Handmaids to give birth for these wealthy barren women. The women unsuited for birthing are called Marthas and they become maids. The climate is puritanical and frightening and a chilling reminder of the future that could be as there are public executions of gays (Gender traitors) and resisters. The cast is superb with Elizabeth Moss as the lead, a surprising Alexis Bleidel and Joesph Feinnes and a group of fresh new faces you will be hearing much more from later. Watch this Now!!

3) Blondie's 11th studio album Pollinator is as fresh, innovative and reminiscent as I could wish for. Every track is great. Doom or Destiny is a classic cut right out of the early years and I love it. Long Time has real Heart of Glass chorus and is easily a stand out. Fun is a 70s hybrid with Debbie Harry's wispy vocals weaving in and out. Pop synth, EMD . Rock -it is all there. And some great guest vocalist writers and musicians including Sia, Johnny Marr and Charli XCX. It is good to see you back, now stay this time

4) Wente Winery in Livermore is a lovely Oasis. A large sprawling property that has a concert venue , golf course, a restaurant and lovely place to relax, listen to live music and enjoy a perfectly chilled Chardonnay. This is the place nestled in the hills I what is starting to become the new wine country.

5) Tonga Room a San Francisco institution looming over California Street in The Fairmont. Built by a Hollywood MGM set designer in 1949 this is a  campy Tiki Bar extravaganza. Polynesia abounds with tropical rainstorms and a large boat in the middle of the pool sails out with a cheesy cover band playing Lionel Richie among others. Kahlua Pork, Chowmein, Dumplings and some the best MaiTais around. I say come for the happy hour puupuu platters and drinks and soak up the nostalgia. I have had birthday parties here and love it and you will too.