Even though I’m a housewife that doesn’t mean I’ve thrown in the dish towel when it comes to fashion. When I’m not wearing my apron I’m out in about with family, friends, and if I’m lucky a night out on the town. This means I need a wardrobe that can take me from looking good casual to desirable dressed up. I came across a new clothing line called Propr started by David Arquette, Ben Harper, and David Bedwell. I love the versatility of the fashions so I wanted to find out more about Propr. Here’s my interview with David Arquette:

HIH: Tell us how Propr started?

David: Propr was started because Ben Harper, David Bedwell, and myself (David Arquette) all of whom share a love for clothing and a desire to be part of a company that made clothes that people will LOVE as well. We each have our own individual style but there are things that cross over between all of us… That’s what we focus on – clothing that people can make their own and feel comfortable in.

HIH: I dig the logo for Propr. Why three owls?

David: The three Propr owls of our logo represent the vision we share on fashion. Owls are such mysterious and brilliant creatures, they have a history steeped in mythology, and they can see what others can’t. Hopefully those are traits that will define us as a company as well.

HIH: I saw some pics from a recent show, Courteney Cox Arquette was wearing Propr and I thought to myself, “Hey I could wear that to my kiddo’s next play date.” Are you going for a more accessible look for the general public?

David: The look and feel of our clothing is geared toward an individuals’ style and people feeling comfortable in our clothing. We use a lot of organic cotton but we never let it compromise our esthetic, it’s our goal is to produce accessible and wearable garments – that a mother can wear to a play date or dinner and feel confident and stylish. We also make the highest quality garments at affordable prices so that wearing Propr fits with your budget and way of life.

Courteney Cox Arquette in Propr

HIH: What do your wives think about this new venture? Do they give you any ideas or feedback for the collections?

David: Our wives have a tremendous say in the clothing we produce. We went through their closets to see what they loved and what they didn’t. We ask them to model our clothes and participate in our fittings as well as listening to them if they have suggestions on what they want in a brand.

HIH: How do you manage your different styles together? Do the three of you have similar fashion ideas?

David: All three of us like blending contemporary clothing with vintage pieces – so when you see our line you’ll notice a focus on detail the way clothing used to be made.

HIH: Both you and Ben have worn some very unique and wild styles to some red carpet events. Will any of those red carpet looks be revisited in the Propr line?

David: For the most part the clothing we produce is accessible to all and not as out there as some of the clothing Ben and I have worn on the red carpet… Although if we are incredibly successful watch out for a couture line that will put the dressed in black crowd to shame.

HIH: What’s the inspiration behind the designs?

David: We take our inspiration from Icons of fashion, Twiggy, Audrey Hepburn, The Beatles, Steve McQueen and vintage styles we find that speak to us.

HIH: Will there be any his and her shirts or sweaters happening?

David: There are some fabrics that cross over to both the men’s and women’s line but they’re not made to be worn together per say, but if that is what you’re into that is just what we want – people making our clothes their own.

HIH: When and where can we start shopping?

David: Propr will be in stores and on the internet starting March 19th 2009. At select Bloomingdales, Kitson, Fred Segal Trends (Santa Monica), Dress (San Francisco), and Satine (On 3rd in Los Angeles). Also check out proprclothing.com and thanks for supporting a new American clothing line born of LOVE.

My internet travels brought me to a new film called Knuckle Draggers that asks one question, “Have we really evolved?”

“Knuckle Draggers takes a realistic, but comic look at how the behaviors of men and women have evolved very little since the caveman times. When Ethan, the needy nice guy, is dumped by his fiancé, he asks his misogynist older brother Kyle to help him win her back. Kyle tries to teach Ethan how to act like “a real man” and to never put a woman on a pedestal. Repulsed by his brother’s harsh views on how to treat women, Ethan ignores his advice and ventures out into the dating world, where he slowly realizes that everything Kyle says seems to be true.”— Alex Ranarivelo, writer and director of Knuckle Draggers.

This new film includes actors Ross McCall, Amie Barsky, Omar Gooding, Daniele Nicolete, Brandon Olive, Jennifer Alden, Justin Baldoni, Serah D’ Laine, and Paul J. Alessi.

Paul J. Alessi plays the role of Kyle and he’s also the producer of Knuckle Draggers. This native New Yorker  is an accomplished actor with a passion for acting and producing.

Paul J. Alessi Photo by Nicholas Ng – © 2008 Aperture Photography

Here’s my interview with Paul  J. Alessi.

HIH: You were discovered while working construction. What was that like going from the construction site to being in front of a camera?

PAUL: It was really amazing and a bit surreal to see the difference in jobs and life styles.

HIH: Any fun or memorable moments you’d like to share from your experiences on the set of Boondock Saints II?

PAUL: To see my good friend Troy Duffy in his moment of glory to finally be making BDII. After shooting the first scene with Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus he said I have been waiting for this for 10 years and you don’t know how happy and excited I am.

That was a very gratifying and inspiring moment for me. He fought long and hard for what he wanted and it paid off.

HIH: Knuckle Draggers takes a realistic, but comic look at how the behaviors of men and women have evolved very little since caveman times. How evolved are you?

PAUL: Let’s just say I feel men and women will always have a different perspective on relationships. I don’t think one way of thinking is necessarily better than the other, just different. But if you ask people I know I guess they would say “not very”.

HIH: I read you love challenges and that’s why you love acting and sports. Were there any challenges for you while producing and acting in the new film Knuckle Draggers?

PAUL: Yes this was definately challenging because this was my first film that I was the sole producer along with having a lead acting role. In my past projects I have done one or the other not both. There are many challenges in making a film in general, but indie films can be especially challenging because there is minimal money. Deciding on what is most important and how to make the best of the budget is very challenging. The jobs of ten people now become the job of one.

HIH: What are your interests other than acting and producing?

PAUL: I attend film festivals and go to the movies as much as I can. I enjoy going to the gym when I can, playing and watching hockey and spending time with my family in NY.

HIH: You have played a wide range of characters. In 1995, you played the role of an AIDS victim in the award winning video Waterfalls by TLC.   Do the tough emotional parts take a toll on you?

PAUL: Yes I actually prefer playing a character that has “guts” and emotions. I like finding the character and those moments of truth and letting the emotions play out. Yes it can take a toll on you but some people say that it can also be very therapeutic.

HIH: Recently the media discussed the incident involving Christian Bale working on the set with a crew member. Do you think it has any effect on the way cast and crew work together? Has anything changed in the industry?

PAUL: No and I don’t think anything has changed. Shit happens. From what I have heard I can understand both sides but the truth be told I wasn’t there and can’t really know how or what went down to make an honest comment.

HIH: When I was in Army Boot Camp many moons ago, I realized how different men and women can be when thinking about the world. Besides doing very little evolving since caveman times how does this difference in thinking come into play in the movie Knuckle Draggers?

PAUL: It doesn’t, it’s based on that exact topic.

HIH: So what do you think about the field training tips your character Kyle, gives his brother Ethan in the film? Have you used any of those tips in real life?

PAUL: Some of Kyle’s training tips are pretty funny. Well I think almost everybody has at least felt like using Kyle’s training tips and most guys I am sure did actually try at some point or another. I won’t say I didn’t. There is a lot of validly in what Kyle says and I wouldn’t disagree with him. But bottom line is it depends on the two people in the relationship, some women get it, and some don’t.

HIH: I noticed that you’re working with Traci Lords in a film set for a 2010 release called Au Pair, Kansas. What else are you up to these days?

PAUL: Wow I can write all day about this but to keep it short I am basically finding good projects and funding so I can keep making films. Meanwhile I am promoting the ones I have finished.

To learn more about Paul J. Alessi click here for his IMDb profile and visit his official site http://www.pauljalessi.com

Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid, a.k.a. Marina Duran-Anderson, fascinates with stunt-belly dance and other forms of stunt dance art. She’s a Fort Lauderdale and South Florida favorite on land and in the water.

Just as mermaids did in 1956-1962, Marina entertains audiences while swimming and dancing underwater at the Wreck Bar inside the Yankee Clipper Hotel. She also performs at assorted venues from television programs, music videos and theatre to high profile public & private events.

“My interest is to help take part in trying to preserve a little mid-century “Floridiana”. Many places that were well known and visited frequently for their uniqueness at one time are either neglected, forgotten or torn down entirely, no longer being considered “today”. The Wreck Bar is my labor of love- Live Mermaid shows took place here back in the 1950′s, ending in the early to mid-60′s. My hope is that the Wreck Bar, along with the Yankee Clipper will again be known- more for its unique significance in Ft. Lauderdale’s history rather than only being known (by the few these days that even know this place even or still exists!) as a location used in the film ‘Analyze This’ (though that exposure certainly benefited the Wreck Bar for a brief time).  Hopefully those that visit the Bar these days may still get a little dose of what made Florida so unique back in those days.” —Marina from her official MySpace

After viewing pictures of a mermaid smiling effortlessly underwater I just had to find out more from this deep sea darling with a stunt man’s nerve.

Here’s my interview with Marina the Fire Eating Mermaid:

HIH: When did you learn to swim and how did swimming turn into performing underwater?

Marina: My Dad and brother started me free-diving at age 3. I lived in the Caribbean, so we would skin dive several times a week. Lots of great training there. Underwater performances just seemed to evolve from that. I actually began experimenting with it at around age 9, trying all sorts of techniques in swimming pools and when skin diving (somersaults, etc). I remember that was about the same year I went to Sea World and was in awe of the Pearl Divers~ and then visited Weeki Wachee- where I saw the mermaid show. (that mermaid show made such an impression that I actually memorized their “Mermaid Flip” song after only listening to it once. This was further confirmed when I came across a YouTube video featuring the song, and I SANG ALONG- I was stunned to still know them!) Somehow, both had made quite an influence~ adding to my free diving side that I had already been so familiar with. To connect it with theatre was beyond amazing to me.
All these amazing people were doing what I did on a continual basis; and they were ADULTS! This is probably when I realized that this was a possibility as a career. It started me on a lifetime love for underwater theatrical performances.

HIH: How did you go from gracefully dancing underwater to dangerous feats like performing on a bed of nails, dancing barefoot on broken plates and using actual sharp bladed weapons?

Marina: Ah, I have always been interested in stunts. I actually wanted to be a stunt woman for some time. My father is a Fencing coach, and Martial arts have been a part of my life for quite some time.
I get inspired by what I wish I could see. I would watch a glamorous woman dancing and think: Wouldn’t it be amazing if she danced on something unusual such as broken plates~ Naturally, after thinking about it, I would have to seek about to see if anyone has done it; once I found that no one had, it was just necessary to do. I dunno, I have that kind of work ethic. Someone has to do it… aw nuts… That someone is me…alright, alright- I’ll do it… It HAS to be done!
Belly dancers looking like showgirls: balancing swords or doing “floor-work” (laying flat on the floor or carpet and doing abdominal moves and the like) are interesting, but… I would think the act through, and wonder about a replacement for that carpet….
hmmm….
a bed of nails, perhaps? Has anyone done that?
No?
Ack~
Gotta do it.
DONE!

HIH: Who introduced you to fire eating?

Marina: My great uncle was a fire eater as a young man in Morocco, and would tell me how he would do that on the streets for money. I found that tale to be very intriguing. I didn’t actually start fire eating” ’till I got one of ‘em inspirations”, which was ironically during the time I was training to be a firefighter. It’s always good to REALLY know what you are working with. It may seem like overkill, but, well, how many fire eating performers are you going to find out there with firefighter training?

HIH: You’re not only an entertainer you also give Poi Ball and Fire Handling lessons to the public. What types of people sign up for these classes and how safe is it?

Marina: Quite a few who are interested in adding a little something to their dance repertoire, I guess it took a wacky person like me to prove that it actually is interesting to do something a little “different”, an “entertainment upgrade” if you will…

HIH: Tell us the difference between Marina the performer and MeduSirena?

Marina: MeduSirena is truly what I am, a combination of everything.
Marina is merely a portion. – But most friends just call me Malia~

HIH: You were featured in Belly Dance Magazine. Which do you prefer belly dancing on land or dancing underwater?

Marina: They are two completely different challenges, as is Polynesian dance.
I dig ‘em all, but I guess the underwater dance is more uniquely me.

HIH: I read you are a pop culture and retro enthusiast. What are some of your favorite films that include mermaids or swimming performances?

Marina: “Mr. Peabody & the Mermaid” That’s a biggie. Esther Williams films are terrific: “Neptune’s Daughter”, “On an Island with You”… sigh….
Too many to name, really.

HIH: You’ll be part of the Hukilau 2009 in Fort Lauderdale, June 11-14. Give us an idea of what Polynesian Pop is all about.

Marina: It started a romanticized vision brought to the mainland by WWII soldiers upon their return from the South Pacific. It so intrigued Americans, that Polynesian flavored design was seen just about everywhere, home decor, restaurants, gardens, bowling alleys, movie theaters, swimming pools, you name it.
Exotica music fueled this genre, films & television took it even further. At cocktail lounges, Polynesian shows would entertain & exotic drinks would be served by sarong clad beauties… a fabricated exotic world that like an enhanced image was irresistible. The period lasted from the 40′s to the mid 70′s.
I was lucky to be born into it.

HIH: I love the music profile list on your official MySpace page. What are some of your favorite musicians and bands?

Marina: Early exposure through my parents was a combination of Queen, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Elton John to Broadway musicals and old movies and island music. Exotica and Lounge music was a constant at our house, as my parents often entertained at their elaborate home tiki bar in our patio. I was also always into the background music played on older TV shows. You know, like that musical piece they would play on “I Dream of Jeannie” when one of the characters is sneaking around, or the music played between scenes… Then came the 80′s…I was an Adam and the Ants fanatic- any time “Stand & Deliver” would come on MTV, I would come running in like one of Pavlov’s dogs to watch Adam look at himself in the mirror in that last scene…(oh, YOU know the one). I live for world sounds Asian 60′s pop, Korean & Japanese Rock; The sound of a well played Japanese shamisen makes me swoon… That set the foundation for my eclectic tastes.
At this point, I cannot name just one- I dig Lola Dutronic for their rendition of “The Porpoise Song”, which is a personal favorite-
Shotaro Hattori will always be the creator of what I affectionately call “MeduSirena’s Theme Song” : デイ・ストリッパー (Domo arugatou gozamasu, Hattori-chan!)
It encompasses everything I love in one neat little package.

HIH: Were you born and raised in Florida? What do you like the most about living in the Sunshine state?

Marina: Nope, I was born and raised in the Caribbean.
Florida was to me a vacation spot, not for the beaches, but for the tourist kitsch. I loved all the old theme attractions-
As a Florida Resident, now I live in “Kitsch Heaven”! My job now is to help preserve some of it.

HIH: What type of makeup do you wear that stays so perfect underwater?

Marina: Waterproof and long wearing makeup only- No moisturizer.
Simple as that.
Anything that says 18 hour wear works perfect.

HIH: How long can you hold your breath underwater?

Marina: I never time it-
My swimming is performance driven, so the act of knowing someone is taking a stopwatch and timing me would make me choke.
Put a camera in front of me however, and I will stay under and smile for as long as it takes~ and I can say that it is plenty. (smirk…)

Visit http://www.medusirena.com for more information, and venue updates. You can also get fun Marina T-shirts, and calendars.

Jennifer Gimenez is an international model, actress, and producer. She is an inspirational woman in the entertainment industry with an exotic look, years of modeling experience, and a passion for life.

She has worked in films such as Blow, Vanilla Sky, and Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle.

Her television appearances have included The Young and the Restless, The Bold and the Beautiful, Karen Sisco, and VH1’s new reality series Sober House.

After watching the trailer for Sober House, I wanted to find out more about this talented and passionate woman. She is “quickly emerging as one of Hollywood’s brightest talents”. Here’s my interview with Jennifer Gimenez:

HIH: According to IMDb, you were discovered at age 14 and became the youngest model to be on the cover of American Elle. What was it like being so young in such a demanding industry?

Jennifer: You know I want to start by saying how blessed I’ve been to be given the life I have. Modeling taught me so much. Yes, it was demanding in every aspect. From weight to how I looked, it all mattered. It’s a fast life, so if you don’t have your head on right you can get lost quick. I had my mom with me at all times. I’m so lucky for her. The pressures can really get to anyone and when you just begin to develop as a young woman it’s a bit overwhelming. I had a great team behind me from my mom, dad and family to agents.

HIH: You’ve been in quite a few music videos for artists like Prince, 2Pac Shakur, and Mick Jagger. You’ve worked with big names in film like Johnny Depp and Tom Cruise. These are not only talented performers but very sexy men. Were you at all star-struck with any of them?

Jennifer: Working with mega famous, sexy and super talented men has been a stroke of good luck for me. I was definitely in awe. The one who I was very shy next to was Tom Cruise. All of them took me off guard for a minute, I mean wouldn’t you be? I do have to say they were all very generous and kind to me. They made me feel very comfortable around them.

HIH: How has your Argentinean heritage affected your career?

Jennifer: Well in the beginning it wasn’t common for “models to have the exotic look”. I believe I was part of the ethnic barrier being broken. Also I am a woman with curves. Hello I’m Latin! Before I used to be insecure about it, today I embrace it!

HIH: Was your experience on VH1’s new series Sober House the first time you had the title of House Manager?

Jennifer: Yes, I was given the opportunity to be a part of Dr. Drew’s team after having battled many of the same experiences that the house residents would have to endure. I’ve been where they’ve been. The only difference is that my early recovery was not put out there for the whole world to view. That just blows me away how courageous these people are.

I was brought on based on my recovery and I am and have been in the entertainment/fashion industry since the age of 14. I have gone to any lengths to get better. That also included not working for 3 years. I just focused on getting a foundation in my life. So Dr. Drew and the producers thought it would be great for me to help these guys. I get what it’s like.

HIH: On your MySpace page under the Interests section you mentioned surfing and being ONE with the universe. I think many people that wrestle with addictions are tricked into believing that their drug of choice can bring that feeling. Do you have any advice for viewers struggling with addiction?

Jennifer: The only message I have is “hope”, that there is a solution. If a girl like me can do it, I promise you, you can too. There are 12 Step programs, rehabs, therapy and doctors that can help. I was just sick and tired of being sick and tired. I had to finally surrender.

Have you ever felt that you either couldn’t live and or couldn’t die, and was stuck in the middle (I call it…hell)? I’ve been there. This is a disease that not only kills your body and mind but your spirit. I am a member of a 12 Step program and I am in recovery today. I use to think that was for losers. But I had such a spiritual bottom that I was willing to try anything.

I had finally surrendered. It had been a process. Some days are better than others. I am a human being today instead of a human doing.

I have a wonderful woman that is my sponsor. Women for me have been my saving grace. Oh how much I love and honor you women. I am no longer alone in my journey of life. I have great relationships with my mom, brother, boyfriend, family and friends. I am a woman with integrity, grace, and dignity. I believe every human being has some loved one, relative, friend, or themselves that has to deal with the disease of alcoholism and drug addiction.

With hope comes faith and through faith comes the will to live… Please don’t give up.

HIH: The preview trailer for Sober House looks intense. I’m sure the task of managing celebs in recovery was difficult. Many moons ago I was a Squad Leader in Army boot camp so I can relate to the difficult part, but did you take any fun memories with you?

Jennifer: This show on recovery was intense, both emotionally and physically draining. I would do it all over again though. I have so many great memories. When I heard, after all the drama had just occurred, that Andy Dick was coming in the house I was like, “Hells no, I’m out!,” just because, I believed the media on him. Andy ended up becoming my angel and the person I identified the most with. We instantly hit it off. We just laughed and laughed, cried a bit, and laughed. He encouraged me to refocus on my acting career. Till this day he and I are super close. We talk 3 to 4 times a day. I love him.

We were being filmed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so there was a month full of memories that will last a lifetime with all the residents. I spent numerous intimate moments with Seth, Nikki, Mary, Rodney, Amber, Steven, and Andy. What you won’t see is that I developed friendships with the crew and production staff.

HIH: You mentioned you’ve lost weight since the taping of Sober House. Congratulations! How did you do it?

Jennifer: After The Sober House I realized I was in the next phase of my life. I must be clean in every area of life. I had been working so hard on the inside that it was time for me to have my outside meet my insides. I started walking then jogging/ running on the treadmill on my own. Now I’ve been working with Eric Pakel. He is a teacher and trainer. He’s taught me a new way to approach my mental and physical health and state of mind. I am learning that exercise has to be an introspective process, just like getting sober was. This weight battle thus far is the hardest thing I’ve overcome. Not eating or eating out of emotions is a no no for me today. Balance is the key. I’ve lost 50 pounds, image use to be everything to me. God is running the show not me.

HIH: What’s next for Jennifer Gimenez in 2009?

I am so excited for the future, the sky’s the limit. I hope to continue acting and modeling. I also look forward to producing as well., although my recovery always comes first.

Visit Jennifer’s official website http://www.jenngimenez.com/

Check out http://VH1.com for showtimes, and more information about Sober House.

My internet travels landed me on the MySpace page of one very cool rock band. Rocket!

I found them while searching for songs with my name in the title. Rocket joins the list of musicians with a song called Suzanne, such as Leonard Cohen, Weezer, Lou Reed and Journey.

Reality TV viewers might remember them as finalists on The Next Great American Band, a FOX talent show that featured judges Shelia E., Ian Dickson, and John Rzeznick.

“Mixing 60′s girl group innocence with 70′s decibel-damaging boulevard beat and 80′s glam wham swagger, Rocket can only be described as a volatile combination that brings to mind The Shangri-Las crashing the stage during an early Motley Crue gig.” —Rocket MySpace profile

This all girl band is sugar and spice, and everything rock-n-roll wrapped up in a big neon bow of color. So here’s a New Year’s gift for you, my Q&A with Rocket:

Give us the history of Rocket. How did it all start?

Rocket started with three high school friends all named Lauren. But when one moved away to go to school, Lauren Rocket and I (Lauren C.) decided to bring more girls on board. We dragged Kristin-another high school friend of ours-out to play bass, found the other girls…and the rest is history!

When I think about “all girl bands” I get images of Josie and the Pussycats, The Go-Go’s, and fictional band The Carrie Nations. What’s your favorite all girl band from the music history vault?

We always feel like The Runaways are our sisters in crime. Our favorite cartoon girl band is, of course, Jem and the Holograms. And from the 90′s…The Spice Girls! I don’t care that they didn’t play instruments.

Do you feel girl bands have a tougher time breaking into the industry?

We are asked questions like this pretty often and it is always hard to say because it’s not like we’ve ever been in an all-guy band trying to make it. I think that at this point breaking into the music industry is hard, no matter who you are. The only annoying part about being a girl in a band is when people backstage ask, “who’s merch girl are you?”

Inquiring minds want to know, did you meet Johnny Depp while performing at the Viper Room?

We did not meet Johnny Depp while at the Viper Room. But we love him and if anyone ever sees him out, please call us.

Tell us about your experience on The Next Great American Band show.

The TV show was one of the most surreal things ever to happen to us. I’m glad we did it though; we now have a great cover version of Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start the Fire.”

I thought you guys really rocked the show but you were eliminated. Sometimes I wonder if being the winner of these shows is really a good thing or not. What’s your take on that?

Thanks! I actually don’t know what happened to the winners of the show, so I guess that answers that question. But they were really nice boys!

You guys, I mean gals, live in one happy rock-n-roll house. Which one of you is the housewife?

Lauren and Kelly compete for housewife. Lauren Rocket is a great cook but Kelly Rocket loves to sew.

My favorite song of yours is Suzanne because I’m completely narcissistic when it comes to my name. Who wrote this song and why the name Suzanne?

That’s top secret information that we are not at liberty to divulge. But I’m glad you like the song. Maybe it’s about you?!?!

You have a new album out early 2009. Give us the inside scoop on that?

The inside scoop on our new album is that it will be our first full-length release. We can’t wait to get it out and start playing the new songs and touring. We’re taking over! I should also mention we have some fun guests on the record. You’ll have to wait and see…

If you could tour with any band who would that be?

Since we all have different tastes in music, it would be different for each of us. I would love to tour with The White Stripes but Kristin Rocket would love to tour with Motorhead-She loves Lemmy!!!

You can purchase and download Rocket music by clicking here.

In 2000, The Boondock Saints wasn’t a mainstream movie but it did become a cult hit. Eager fans have been asking director Troy Duffy for a sequel and finally he’s giving the fans what they asked for with The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day.

Lots of great actors were involved with the first movie, and most will be returning, Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flannery and Billy Connolly  to name a few. I was excited to read that one of my favorite actors from The Breakfast Club, Judd Nelson, has added to the cast.

I cooked up some questions for Troy Duffy, and the cast of All Saints Day for the live video cast that will be held on Tuesday, December 9th, 2008 at 3pm EST Check it out and see what HIH question they choose.

UPDATE 12/10/2008: Troy Duffy did answer my questions. Listen for questions from housewifeinhollywood.com towards the end of the video conference, near 01:04:38.

For all you Boondock Saints fans out there, check out the cool gear at Hot Topic.

Foolish mortals, does your Halloween spirit need a revival? Do you wish that ghoulish feeling could last all year long? Are you in need of some groovy music you can shimmy too?

The Ghastly Ones bring you spooky surf sounds from beyond the grave. Learn more about this groovy, or should I say ghouly band. I had a fun Q&A with Norman, aka Baron Shivers, take a look if you dare:

HIH:  Who came up with the name? Was there any inspiration from the 60’s horror movie with the same title?

Garrett “Dr. Lehos” and I wrote a bunch of names down and The Ghastly Ones stuck because it just had a cool spooky vibe to it but not too over the top. It came from an Andy Milligan film of the same name from 1968. It’s a pretty bad movie but we dug the spirit of the film, plus The Lively Ones was, and still is, one of our favorite surf bands from 60’s. The Deadly Ones was already used by a novelty band in the 60’s, so The Ghastly Ones was perfect.

HIH:  When I hear the word Surf band I think of music from the Ventures. Hearing Cemetery Surf, I think of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion theme song with its ghoulish lyrics and 60’s sounds. What made you want to incorporate the silly scary?

Growing up I really loved The Munsters and religiously watched Creature Features on late night TV. Both shows had a surfy sounding theme song and the idea clicked in my head to make the first real spooky surf group. The Deadly Ones was a novelty band that played instrumentals with groans and screams on top and several bands including The Ventures played around with spooky songs but no one had even done an all horror surf band, so The Ghastly Ones were born!

HIH:   There’s an event in the summer called Tiki Oasis. You played there this year and it sounded like a wild time. I’m fascinated by the mixture of tiki themes mixed with zombies. Can you give us an idea of where this mix came from?

Zombies and Tiki go hand in hand. Besides there being a famous tropical drink called the Zombie, Tiki imagery has always been steeped in mysterious island rituals and Voodoo practices but in a very romantic and idealized way. In the old days many restaurants and bars had this theme and the tradition carries on today.

HIH:  Can we purchase the single you did for the SpongeBob Scaredy Pants episode?

We don’t have that single for sale but we get asked about SpongeBob a lot. We really enjoyed creating music for that show. We just contributed music for another animated film called Los Campiones de La Lucha Libre. It’s from the creators of Mucha Lucha.

HIH:   You’ve been together since the mid 90’s. Has your band changed at all since then?

The biggest change was the addition of a permanent keyboard player, Dave aka “Capt Clegg”. He’s been on all of our recordings since day one but he joined our band officially in 2006. Other than that, we’ve been incorporating some more Davie Allan style fuzz numbers and recently we’ve been on a Japanese Instro kick. There were these cats in the 60’s, Yuzo Kayama and Terry Terauchi that did some amazing Ventures style instros but with a very aggressive guitar tone that we really like. We’re doing a tribute to them in January at Deke Dickeson’s Guitar Geek Festival here in the LA area.

HIH:   What is one of your favorite late night monster movies?

Wow, that’s a very long list! For starters anything by Mario Bava, Black Sunday, Black Sabbath, Kill baby Kill. Hammer films and the original Universal Horror films of the 30’s and 40’s are great. Horror of Party Beach is a big fave, Beach Girls and the Monster, Frankenstein Meets The Space Monster, and the Santo Wrestling films are non-stop fun too. This list could go several pages.

HIH:  In 2007, you performed for the first time in Japan, and on the East Coast. Was there a big difference between those audiences and your California fans?

The Japanese fans were amazing. They love to go nuts over there. A mosh pit started at one of our shows but it wasn’t violent, just kids having a great time. We love to see people out there moving dancing and jumping around, not just staring at our every move.

HIH:  What’s next for The Ghastly Ones?

More grave-diggin’, fuzz-fueled, reverb-drenched, brew-injected, hearse-powered skullduggery at a location near you!

For some hip, happening and haunting tunes go to:

 www.myspace.com/ghastlyones

The Ghastly Ones

“Baron Shivers” Drums and Vocals
“Dr. Lehos”  Lead Guitar
“Sir GoGo Ghostly”  Bass
“Captain Clegg”  Organ
“Necrobella”  Go-Go

I came across a great article in Los Angeles Magazine online about a Captain Jack Sparrow impersonator working at Disneyland, named Brandon Hillock. Being fascinated by pirates the way I am, plus my enthusiasm for Captain Jack, I decided to find out more about Brandon.

Brandon was approved by Johnny Depp to work at The Happiest Place on Earth. He is also an actor, director, entrepreneur, and all around nice guy. You may have seen him as Deputy Sacks, his reoccurring role, on the TV show Veronica Mars.

If he’s not acting, he’s working with his film company Pinto Pictures, or impersonating Captain Jack Sparrow with his crew of Marked Men.

With the popularity of Captain Jack Sparrow, most Captain Jack impersonators acquire a fan base from the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy. Brandon has a following all his own.

He is a down to earth, and charismatic guy, that “keeps to the code” when conducting business. He seems devoted to his family and close friends, while being hopeful and ambitious about his future projects.

We sat in the over 100 year old adobe home he inherited from his grandfather, with the backdrop of his younger brother’s photo on the wall, and two year old daughter’s stroller in the back room. I asked him questions about his adventures as Captain Jack, his work with charitable organizations like CoDA, and his fledgling company Marked Men.

Like many pirate enthusiasts, Brandon started off with a love for all things Star Wars, dressing up like Anakon Skywalker. He decided to make his first Captain Jack costume before there was any reference material and since that time he’s moved from being Captain Jack at Comic Con, and a Depp approved Jack at Disneyland, to the head Captain of his own company Marked Men.

The cast from The Girls Next Door, and Kate Moss swooned over Brandon as Captain Jack while visiting Disneyland. Kids visiting the Disney theme park were excited to get hugs, and a treasured autograph from Captain Jack. These days you can hire Brandon and the rest of his Marked Men crew to entertain your own pirate themed party.

Brandon informed me there are more Captain Jack Sparrow impersonators then there are for Elvis. This was one of the main reasons he decided to start Marked Men. What makes Brandon and his Marked Men company unique is his Pirates of the Caribbean crew that can be hired not just to mingle at your party but to act out Pirates of the Caribbean movie scenes. Giselle and Scarlett can be your servers, while Tia Dalma does palm reading. Davy Jones can duel with Captain Jack, while Will Turner and Elizabeth grab their swords and join the fight.

Even if you’re not in the market for a Captain Jack, you should keep a keen eye on Brandon Hillock.

And now ladies and gentlemen, the first Housewife in Hollywood “Cribs Style” walk through. Here’s a tour of Brandon’s piratey pad:

Brandon Hillock’s Room Tour on HIH

As I’ve mentioned before, my favorite ride at Disneyland is the Pirates of the Caribbean. I was delighted when I found Scarlett Harlott, a real life version of the famous Redhead from Disney’s pirate ride. I didn’t find her signing autographs at Disney’s theme park, instead I stumbled upon her while searching the internet. Many have met her at a pirate event, or Renaissance Faire, maybe they watched her ride by in the Grand Marshall carriage at the 2008 PyrateCon in New Orleans, or they’ve read her articles in Pirates Magazine. For anyone familiar with the classic ride at Disneyland, seeing her will bring out nostalgic memories.

Here is my interview with Scarlett Harlott:

HIH: When did you decide to become “The Redhead” being auctioned off on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland, and how did you get the idea?

Personally, the Pirates of the Caribbean ride is very dear to me. My dad used to take me to Disneyland as I was growing up as special “father-daughter time” and one of my earliest memories there was when my dad first took me on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride when I was about six years old. THAT was when I first fell in love with all things pirate! As we rounded the bend of the famous auction scene, “She” crept into view. It’s a vision I will never forget and it has stayed with me to this day. I gazed upon the splendor of the woman in all red, heard the beckoning pyrates bellowing, “We wants the red’ead!” and quickly informed my father, “I am going to be HER when I grow up!” (Which is amusing in itself as my father was a preacher at the time!) As a young impressionable girl, “The Redhead” personified and encompassed everything that I thought a woman should be. Her costume was especially inspiring and I remembered it more than ANYTHING on the ride or in all of Disneyland, for that matter! While my friends were dressing up in pink Disney Princess gowns and tiaras, I was trying to stuff pillows in top of my mom’s red dress, pathetically trying to “fill the dress out” to be “The Redhead”. God found it amusing I’m sure to give me more than my share later in life! I had been dreaming since that day, when I was six, to design “The Redhead” costume for myself but it finally came to fruition in 2006 when I debuted it for the Hollywood Pirate Ball at the Key Club and won FIRST PLACE! What was even more moving is that when I got up on stage to be judged the crowd of a couple hundred “pirates” started chanting, “WE WANTS THE REDHEAD!” over and over. It was a VERY special moment for me, indeed. I even got to meet and interview the woman in charge of costuming the entire ride back in 1967, Disney Legend Alice Davis! She was the wife of another Disney Legend, Marc Davis who created and drew all the characters for the POTC ride! That was quite an honor for me.  I showed up for the interview with Alice in my Redhead costume. She got quite a kick out of it!

HIH: Your MySpace page is loaded with impressive pics of pirate events, Renaissance Faires and lots of other reasons to get all decked out in a costume. How did your love of costuming come to be?

I have had a love for costuming and dressing up since I was born, I think. My mom tells me stories about me dressing up in her clothes, makeup, hats and wigs and putting on full-fledged singing and dancing shows for my family and friends since I was a toddler. My mom used to make elaborate costuming for me and enter me into contests every Halloween and I always seemed to win first place ribbons! So I guess this is all her fault! Performing and wearing elaborate costumes is something that feels very natural to me and I enjoy it immensely. I look for any excuse to get dressed up and have some fun with friends!

HIH: Were you always a pirate enthusiast?

Since that fateful day my dad took me on the POTC ride long ago, I have always searched for books, artwork, songs, etc. about pirates. Anything I could get my hands on. I became fascinated with all things piratical and still am to this day.

HIH: You have songs being made about you by Pirate themed bands, your own column in Pirate magazine and even fan artwork. It seems you have your own celebrity status, did this take a long time to build up or did you have a following early on?

To be honest, this so-called “celebrity status” has taken me quite by surprise! I started a MySpace page in 2005 at the urging of a friend and to also “watchdog” my daughter, then quickly realized this was an awesome way to network and keep up with friends and other people who were like-minded (and dorky like me!)  After I debuted my Redhead costume, I then changed my MySpace page theme to revolve around “The Redhead”, complete with the auction scene dialogue from the POTC ride playing in the background. My new page got A LOT of attention and I guess there were more fans of The Redhead and the Disneyland POTC ride than I had thought!

I just love life and enjoy living it to the fullest extent at all times. I like to express myself artistically through my costumes and characters and give 110% in everything I do and I think people respond to that. I treat people like I would like to be treated and I love meeting new people wherever I go! I have been blessed with wonderful, supportive friends and fans, I love them all very much.

HIH: You have an album on your Myspace page with pics from your home decorated with a pirate and Moulin Rouge theme. I noticed a lot of collector items such as Mark Davis artwork. Were you interested in Walt Disney and Mark Davis before you became the redhead?

Oh yes, I’ve ALWAYS been a Disney fan of all sorts. I actually started my collection of Marc Davis artwork before I evolved into “The Redhead”.  Since the POTC ride has always been my favorite, I’ve collected wonderful artwork and other collectibles since I was young. I even have an original pirate map from the Disneyland “Pieces of Eight” pirate store from 1967 that I found on eBay! I also have every “Redhead” item Disney ever released, including a 2½ foot tall statue of her (and the Auctioneer), figurines, dolls and all the collectors pins, too! Yup, I’m obsessed!

HIH: You obviously visit Disneyland often. Do you ever go in costume? If so how do the park guests react to you?

I wish I COULD go into Disneyland in my “Redhead” costume! Unfortunately, they won’t let you enter the park if you are wearing any kind of costume. I had a Disney cast member friend of mine (I won’t say WHO) tell me to pack my costume in a bag and put it on once inside the park, then stand by the exit of the POTC ride and enjoy being a “character” until I get kicked out! (SHHHH! I’m thinking seriously about this!) Actually, adults and children actually think I’m “Ariel” from “The Little Mermaid” when I go to Disneyland because of my long, bright red hair. I usually put my Ariel flower in my hair, carry around my “Flounder” fish character purse and wear my Ariel t-shirt when I go, too! HAHA!

HIH: I noticed many pics with more than a few Captain Jacks. Have you ever met the real Captain Jack Sparrow?

DON’T I WISH!!!!!! *le sigh* I do have several friends that got to work with Johnny Depp on the POTC movies, but not me. Not YET, anyway!

HIH: Besides the famous redhead on Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean ride, what other characters do you emulate?

She’s the character closest to my heart, but I also love to dress up in other eras and play a variety of characters besides “The Redhead”. I also play “Big Nose Kate” who was Doc Holliday’s girlfriend in the 1880′s during the Tombstone years and “Vallon the Voluptuous Viking Valkyrie from Valhalla”. I even got to ride a Percheron horse down Hollywood Blvd. wearing my Viking armour last month! What a hoot!

HIH: Is this just a fun hobby for you or more of a career at this point?

It’s a little of both at this point. I wish it was MORE of a career for me, but being a “professional pirate” doesn’t pay as steadily as the historical pirates got “paid”. I need a steady “day job” to pay for my costuming addiction! I am, however, available to hire for themed parties & events, just visit my website to email me: www.scarlettharlott.com

HIH: It is the summer of 2008 and there will be millions visiting the happiest place on earth. What are a couple of your most memorable Disneyland moments?

Well, besides the most obvious, here are some OLD SCHOOL (the younger generation may not remember these things) Disneyland memories from when I was just a wee one:

1. Eating warm churros and drinking hot chocolate while standing in line for the Haunted Mansion on winter mornings.

2. Playing on Tom Sawyer Island (before the pirates took it over) with my dad.
Riding the “People Mover” with my family in Tomorrowland!

3. Fighting over the very few “E-Tickets” in the ticket book with my older brother!

4. Thinking I was REALLY flying high over London on the Peter Pan ride.

5. Riding the ORIGINAL submarine (before “Nemo” came) ride with my folks and my mom always getting Claustrophobia!

6. Getting scared out of mind that the floating candelabra in the dark hallway on the Haunted Mansion ride was REAL (and most everything else on that ride, too, EEEP!)

7. Singing along with the Country Bear Jamboree show and wishing I could grow up to be “Teddi Barra”, the girl bear that came down from a hole in the ceiling on the swing, singing! “Big Al” and his deep, bellowing voice was a favorite of mine, too!

8. My dad buying me cotton candy, Mouse Ears and a HUGE rainbow lollypop!

Two talented sisters put together one of the biggest show sensations on the Internet. If you’re a fan of Johnny Depp, Captain Jack Sparrow, or Tim Burton movies, you’ll be a fan of The Hillywood Show.

It’s not just the subject matter they choose that makes this show unique. Their witty humor, talent, motivation, and amazing attention to detail intrigue viewers and have them eagerly waiting for the next episode.

I met with Hilly & Hannah at Comic Con 2008. As we talked, fans commented on Hilly’s incredible costume, and gathered to take pictures with her as Edward Scissorhands. I was a bit bummed to find out I would be missing Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett the following day but I was thankful to meet these two Internet celebs in person. Check out their video from the event.

The Hillywood Show recently released Episode 13. In a jaw dropping sort of way, Hilly & Hannah reenact scenes from one of Tim Burton’s best films, Sweeney Todd. They weave in creative content, making each episode their own work of art.

Here is my interview with Hilly & Hannah of The Hillywood Show:

HIH: I read on your official website that you were both performing at a young age either impersonating characters or taking dance classes. When did the idea of The Hillywood Show come about?

It started back in 2006. AOL put out a contest that encouraged teens to send in their own idea for a web show. So, we sent in our entry and discovered we were in America’s Top 5 Finalists out of 100,000 entries! It was so exciting! After the contest was over, we came in 3rd place and gained fans through that! They told us to continue with the show, so we did!

HIH: Hannah, we see a lot of Hilly on screen, recently you’ve been playing Mrs. Lovett in your Sweeney Todd featured episodes. What are some things you do behind the scenes for The Hillywood Show?

I am the Director of “The Hillywood Show”, script writer (along with Hillary), cinematographer (along with Hillary), and make-up artist. Plus, I do most of the scheduling for shoots and organizing things for the show.

HIH: Hilly, has Johnny Depp told you what he thinks of your flattering homage to his characters?

No, because I have never met Johnny, but it would be an honor to hear what he thinks about “The Hillywood Show”!

HIH: In a recent interview for Las Vegas Weekly I read that you were both homeschooled. Did homeschooling help you pursue this out of the box idea of creating your own show on the Internet?

Yes! Being home schooled allowed us to focus on the things we wanted to do in life and opened up our imagination even further. It was a true blessing.

HIH: What do your parents think of the show? Are they involved in your productions?

Our parents support us 100%! They are constantly involved and in ‘the know’ about all our projects and future episodes. They are absolutely amazing!

HIH: Your intro complements the professionalism of your show. Who created The Hillywood Show intro?

We both did! We both wrote the lyrics to “Hooray for Hillywood” and shot the intro as well. We contacted a band by the name of ‘SPIV’ and asked them to perform “Hooray for Hillywood”. They agreed and we couldn’t have been more pleased with it! It’s great!

HIH: With all the acts, impersonators, and flashy resorts in Las Vegas, does living there help the production of your show in anyway?

Well, to be honest, it depends on what we are looking for at the time. Episode #5 was very easy to shoot, down on the Strip and everything, but Episodes #10 – #13 (Sweeney Todd) was very difficult. The locations needed to look like England in the 1800′s…so that was extremely difficult to find!

HIH: Where do you film your episodes? Do you rent space or is it a home project?

Our episodes are shot in various locations. Sometimes they will be shot on a set or at an actual location.

HIH: You’ve appeared and been featured on many TV shows, a few being Access Hollywood, Fox 5 News, and CNN Live. Although your show itself isn’t on television you have enough visibility to generate a big fan base. You have a fan center on your site which includes fan artwork, fan videos, and fan avatars. What is it like having so many appreciate and promote your creative work?

It really encourages us and makes us want to make more episodes for the fans! They have been so supportive through everything and we couldn’t ask for more. It is absolutely fantastic having people appreciate your work! Without the fans, “Hillywood” wouldn’t be the same.

HIH: What is next for The Hillywood Show?

We are currently shooting for Episode #14 which will air sometime in September. Also, we would like for a television network to pick up “The Hillywood Show”! That’s one goal we are praying for!

You can watch The Hillywood Show in High Definition at www.thehillywoodshow.com

Leave a hello or a comment for Hilly & Hannah on their official MySpace page. Tell them the Housewife in Hollywood sent you! www.myspace.com/thehillywoodshow