The Coronavirus Pandemic has been an unwelcomed intruder in the United States and around the world for more than one year. Today, the Beltway Insider looks back over this last year from lockdowns, devastations, vaccine, and hope.
The Syrian crisis is entering its eleventh year. Without the shadow of a political or diplomatic solution, it reveals above all the culpable inertia and procrastination of Western nations for the benefit of the Syrian regime and Vladimir Putin.
The meeting between Iranian Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani and Pope Francis laid the groundwork for a new dialogue between the two religions, not to the displeasure of marginalized Islamist extremists, like Reda Kriket, by the interview of the two religious dignitaries.
The Intercept has published an exclusive investigation revealing how Erik Prince, the founder of the mercenary firm Blackwater, aided a plot to move U.S.-made gunships, weapons, and other military equipment from Jordan to a renegade commander fighting for control of war-torn Libya.
French President Emmanuel Macron, facing a tough reelection, is gambling on politicizing the coronavirus pandemic by exceeding the nation’s health status, integrating inflated vaccination numbers into its balance sheet could thus be a cornerstone of its programme.
Operation Barkhane, initiated by former President François Hollande, with the goal of curbing radical Islamicmilitias in Northern Africa, has continue for eight years. The billion euro annual debt, coupled with the pandemic has made the operation expendable.
Candidate Joe Biden’s promised plan to control the COVID-19 pandemic featured everybody wearing a mask for 100 days. Former CDC director Robert Redfield said it might take only four, six, or eight weeks and later up to 12 weeks.
The French Dispatch, from Searchlight Films, brings to the screen the avant-garde bohemian life of 1960s Paris, as told by journalists on assignment for the magazine The French Dispatch, as they present the story behind the words.
Tina, from HBOMAX, brings to the screen the fabulous Tina Turner, a hard-working, rocking, reflective and honest survivor, a word which would probably make her cringe as it reflects the ever-present lurking shadow of a past life.
Stealing School, from Vertical Entertainment, presents a dramatic comedy on higher education integrity as a brilliant tech prodigy is accused of cheating and must prove her innocence in a secret trial held before a review board.
The Affair, from Vertical Entertainment, presents a story that follows a young newlywed couple, full of hope and optimism, watching as they face the internal struggles, discover new passions, and are forced to flee as the Nazi’s invade.
Made You Look A True Story About Fake Art, from Netflix, presents a suspenseful and compelling crime thriller, set against the restricted world of Manhattan society, international wealth, affluence, and the magnetism of the exclusive art world.
Crisis, from Quiver Distribution, brings to the screen a contemporary, fast action, dramatic, north of the border cartel thriller weaving four stories from victim to trafficker to big pharma into the backdrop of the Opioid epidemic.
The Vault, from Saban Films and Paramount Entertainment, presents a fast action, globetrotting, entertaining heist film complete with all the impossibilities, ingenuity, technological wizardry, gizmo's, and gadgets necessary to access the most secure vault in Spain.
The United States vs. Billie Holiday, a Hulu original film, presents the story of the FBI campaign mounted against her to stop her from bringing attention to the continued murders and lynching of the southern Negros.
Nomadland, from Searchlight Pictures, presents a modern story of the lost souls of society who are forced out of traditional lifestyles by the 2009 economic collapse, and are forced by circumstance to find a new way of living.
Land, from Focus Features, brings to the screen a compelling story of overwhelming grief as tragedy dealt the harshest blows leaving one woman to search for meaning, and find herself, in the vast and harsh American wilderness.
The World to Come, from Bleeker Street Films, brings to the screen a compelling story of grief, love, and hope and the need for connection in this powerful 19th century romance set in the American Northeast.
The Father, from Sony Pictures Classics, brings to the screen a poignant portrayal of the relationship between older parents and children when age and all its frailties slowly overtake the mind causing a collision of futures.
The Mauritanian, from STX Entertainment, brings to the screen the story of Mohamedow ould Slahi, who was detained and held with charges in Guantanamo Bay prison for nearly fourteen years during the post 9/11 terrorist roundup post.
Fear of Rain, a Lionsgate presentation, presents a contemporary mental health drama, which delves into the mind of a barely functioning teenager diagnosed with schizophrenia, and horrifying images, voices, and feelings that seek to overwhelm her.
The Rough Guide Madrid, from APA Publications, brings to the pages a vibrant traveler's guide to Spain's capital city with world class art museums, stunning architecture, shopping, pulsating nightlife, café culture, tapas bars, and alfresco dining.
The Photographing Tourist, from D. F. Noyes Studios, brings to the pages an inviting, informative and international journey for the novice photographer and armchair traveler to the trekker ready with bags packed and camera in hand.
DJing is hard work, and like any other talent it requires a preparation and boldness to be done properly. An aspiring DJ needs to learn the tricks of the trade, have knowledge of tunes that move, and marketing.
The pandemic and its forced isolation has forced many to face a grim reality as the comfort clothes that have become an indispensable wardrobe staple must be retired and our once keen fashion sense resurrected.
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could wake up each morning with glowing, youthful skin? Although, sleep can help achieve that, typically it isn’t enough. For help, here are three ideas that will help achieve radiate skin.
Celebrity Sherri Shepherd is at it again, leveraging her celebrity power while losing weight, getting fit and healthy coupled with effectiveness of financial incentives and expert support to spur extraordinary success among those dieting-for-dollars through the program.
As people age, it is natural to experience thinner, drier skin and an increase in wrinkles and other signs of aging. However, sometimes one's environment and lifestyle choices can cause the skin to age prematurely.
Taking care of your health should always be a top priority. We all know that staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet can enhance your wellness, but what impact does a pet have on your well-being?
From the renowned health benefits, they're known for to the unique, rich flavors and aromas they provide in each cup, it should be no surprise that loose-leaf herbal teas are as popular as they are.
As the news seems to be a downer on every front, the idea of dating, which can present a range of emotions or punctuating memories and vows of never again, may just be the antidote to these pandemic blues.
Sensorio, the immersive art destination in Paso Robles, California, announces it will reopen April 15, 2021 with a newly added immersive light installation in addition to its current Field of Light also by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro.
On March 25th Bonhams Los Angeles will hold a two-part Modern Design | Art auction featuring an extensive offering of exceptional works, with a rare, monumental mirror previously owned by Karl Lagerfeld leading the sale.
Maybaum Gallery is pleased to announce Mirror Effect, a solo exhibition of recent paintings by American artist Greg Haynes. This is his first solo show on the West Coast and features a collection of six new original pieces.
Baryshnikov Arts Center (BAC) presents the next installments of its 2021 digital spring season. brownout, a solo created, directed and performed by choreographer and performer Mariana Valencia, premieres on Monday, March 1 at 5pm ET at BACNYC.org.
Prior to the Coronavirus lockdown, I enjoyed three days in Paris, France, strolling the streets, taking in the sights, and of course visiting the museums which travelers the world over flock to the city of lights to savor.
San Jose Stage Company (Randall King, Artistic Director and Cathleen King, Executive Director), in collaboration with African-American Shakespeare Company is pleased to announce the cast and creative team for the virtual world premiere of the new play STRANGE COURTESIES.
As warmer months approach, and the world continues to reemerge, freshening up one's style may include adding necklaces, in all shapes, sizes, varieties, from elegant and dainty to classic and statement pieces to jazz up that wardrobe.
Gemstones are beautiful, comprising a larger variety than just the clear diamonds that everyone knows about, and they can be used in much more than just the typical engagement rings we see all too often.
Unique, dramatic, and appealing describe the handmade jewelry created by Jewelry Designer Marilena Papadokostantaki. Raised in Athens Greece she mastered the textile fine art of nitho, an ancient Grecian skill that spins synthetic fibers in exquisite designs.
For all its best efforts, 2020 was ultimately a trendless year. Even though we all dressed up for our weekly Zoom meetings and Instagram posts, getting out and about to show off our fashion sense was impossible.
As we move ahead with the year in review, even the fine jewelry market felt the sting of the Coronavirus as sales of rings, especially fashion rings, dropped because of the constant need to maintain hand washing.
Lebanese designer Ziad Nakad showcased his Spring/Summer 2021 Couture Collection, The Birds of Paradise, at the Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte inspired by the past year’s restrictions, he designed a collection filled with desire to be free.
Paris Fashion Week Spring Summer 2021 went viral with designers presenting their collections in environments highlighting the inspiration. La Métamorphose presented a spring summer 2021 couture collection among the flowers of a lush, blooming, thriving tropical garden.
This is the eternal story of an artist who falls in love with his creation. Reality cannot match this perfection created by his own hands. The work that came out of his imagination meets all his expectations.
Blending Parisian chic and European elegance, designer Karnit Aharoni presents her eponymous collection of women's fine shirts bringing a balance of day and evening styling, with special touches for comfort, pairing sophistication with classic detailing creating perfection.
Give the gift of music this holiday season with Meze Audio 99 Neo Classic series over the ear headphones, or ear buds, unlocking the hidden audiophile within, with pure, smooth, silky, mesmerizing, delivery of sound.
With a little creativity and a few simple tips, a dull room can go from dreary to cheery in no time at all, with a few color and lighting changes the entire aura of any room will brighten.
House hunting can become a mix of emotions, much like the lottery, each visit holds the possibility of being the winning ticket. We all have our checklists when we start house-hunting. Sometimes they’re negotiable, more often not.
Starting a garden is an excellent way to enjoy beautiful plants and delicious fruits, herbs, and vegetables right in your backyard. As a new gardener, it is vital to choose plants that will thrive in your climate.
When problems arise with your home’s foundation, it can create huge problems in other parts of your house. Most homeowners never think that their property will be affected by foundation issues, but it can and does happen.
Capresso, the leader of home hot and cold beverage machines, is brewing up the ultimate holiday magic with its ultra-stylish, high end specialty line of appliances and accessories guaranteed to brighten any home and add years of delight.
Following a successful limited launch, Entertainment Icon Snoop Dogg has announced his INDOGGO® Gin is available nationwide. Crafted with a relaxed California style, it is the ultimate remix of seven premium botanicals infused with all-natural strawberry flavor.
On a recent trip to France, I decided to revive my inner chef and participate in a recreational Pastry Arts class, what better region to learn the art of crafting sumptuous, mouthwatering and sinfully delicious pastries than Paris.
Los Vascos Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay, three delightful vintages from the Domaines Baron de Rothschild Los Vascos winery in Chile, are perfectly paired with long sunny days, intimate gatherings, weekend getaways and summertime memories.
WP 24, the ultra-gourmet restaurant, located 24 floors above Los Angeles in the downtown Ritz Carlton, is for the culinary connoisseur a fine dining sensory experience combining spices from the Far East to create perfectly prepared unique, exquisite, Asian flavors.
When house hunting, there is much to account for during the beginning stages of looking for a new extravagant and tropical home to spend time and invest in, especially in an area that’s new to you.
What do Oprah Winfrey, Magic Johnson, Presidents Clinton, Eisenhower and Biden and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor have in common? They've all stayed at the historic Biltmore Hotel in the exclusive Coral Gables area of Miami, Florida.
With glowing red-and-white cliffs, plunging canyons and stunning views from tall rocky peaks, Zion National Park will take your breath away. This gorgeous corner of Utah boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the state.
Oahu is also the home to Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, and some substantial historical relevance. For many any trip to this island paradise must include a visit to Pearl Harbor National Monument and the USS Arizona Memorial.
During the recent Christmas holiday, I decided to spend two weeks in Oahu, the capital of the Hawaii, home to Waikiki, the most celebrated beach in the world, Pearl Harbor, and the towering volcanic peak, Diamond Head.
After a year of invitations from Angela Wendkos Jackson and Exclusive Events to visit London and experience the vibrant, electric, and pulsating culture that draws millions each year, I decided to jump the pond for a mix of business and pleasure.
Recently an invitation to enjoy Vail, Colorado, whose slogan, is "Like Nothing on Earth," arrived in my email and after a breakfast vetting meeting with the city's PR rep, the dates for my visit was set for July 2019.
Quintero Golf Club, a new, semi-private, course, built by Rees Jones and Steve Weisser in 2000, is a traditional desert classic course offering challenging year-round play across 7208 yards in the sprawling Phoenix Valley.
Just a short walk from Union Square, amidst the cacophony of city life, the CLIFT San Francisco, a boutique luxury hotel, welcomes it guests into a bygone era of old world stateliness mixed with stylish class, comfort and luxury.
Purchasing a Porsche is the ultimate statement; cool, classy, luxurious. However, without daily maintenance, detailing and care, the dream purchase will become sluggish. Here are ten tips to keep your Porsche purring like an optimal driving machine.
No matter what make, model, or year, every car has the potential to look and feel like a more luxurious ride than it once started as, especially with the help of a few additional upgrades.
Vintage cars speak of cool nostalgia, invoking a groovy feeling reminiscent of simpler times, and for many these pristine automobiles are a future investment. Here, are a few tips to avoid when beginning a classic auto collection.
Over a four hour time period, Southern California Highway Patrol reported 365 car accidents were called in by shell-shocked LA drivers as the forecasted torrential rains disrupted the Thursday morning commute snarling the already bumper-to-bumper traffic.
Official Secrets, from IFC Films, presents a contemporary espionage thriller as Katherine Gun, a former British spy, discovers the US government is attempting to swing the UN Security Council vote by gathering dirt to leverage smaller nations.
In the final episode, the online documentary project "How the War was Filmed" presented the frontline operators by name, who at the cost of their own lives, overcoming fear and pain, tried to capture what was happening at the front.
Alan Rickman, known as a diverse and generous talent, star of stage, television and the screen from the Harry Potter series to Love Actually, passed away due complications from pancreatic cancer. He was 69.
Baryshnikov Arts Center (BAC) announces the Digital Spring 2021 season of free online presentations, featuring seven premieres of new works for online presentation commissioned by BAC and streaming free on demand at BACNYC.ORG beginning February 1, 2021.
President Obama's significant presidency is nearly one for the history books and as we inch closer to the election of a new leader the most glaring failure in Obama's many successes is Middle Eastern foreign policy.
Sicario: Day of the Soldado, from Sony Pictures Entertainment, picks up the story of the dirty deeds mercenary and his team as they weed out the strengthening Mexican cartels by instigating an inner cartel war with disastrous results.
What Men Want, from Paramount Players and BET Films, presents an hilarious, fun filled trip as super sports agent, Ali Davis becomes enabled, after a bachelorette party gone bad, with the power to hear the thoughts of men.
Contrary to popular belief, floods and droughts kill more Americans than hurricanes or earthquakes. Globally, however, earthquakes comprise some of the deadliest natural disasters in history.
Suzi Q, from Utopia Media, presents an explosive portrayal of trailblazing singer-songwriter Suzi Quatro and her rise from Detroit and an all-girl band to the first women of rock and roll, to a successful television and stage career.
Beverly Hills, CA – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences received separate $10 million gifts from Jeffrey Katzenberg and Steven Spielberg for the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
Star Wars: The Rise of the Skywalker, from Walt Disney Pictures, LucasFilm and Bad Robot, presents an epic story of wars and worlds, and desire, determination and drive verses power in the ultimate battle of good verse evil.
Bonhams Fine Jewellery reveals its top 10 lots of 2018 sold in its sales in London, Hong Kong and New York this year. With magnificent emeralds, rubies, diamonds and pink diamonds in pendants, necklaces, bracelets, solitaries leading.
The Beguiled, from American Zoetrope and Focus Features, presents the final days of the Civil War and the breakdown as solid truths and commitments become clouded by the presence of a wounded Union soldier who electrifies the home.
Reaffirming its place as the UK’s finest Concours celebration, 2017’s Chubb Insurance Concours d’Elégance saw some of the world’s rarest and most spectacular classic cars battle it out on the prestigious grounds of Blenheim Palace on Thursday 31st August.
