#and a hidden television san francisco

[happythebluecat]

San Francisco Home Bar Living Room

[seat-safety-switch]

When I was a kid, there was a constant male presence in my life. I learned from him. I laughed with him. I cried with him. And I endeavoured to gain his respect. No, it wasn't my father. Outside of school, my mentor was Martin Yan.

Maybe you haven't met him. He's a dude who was on public-access TV a lot in the 80s and 90s. His schtick? Cooking show. He'd bang together some insane delicacies in about twenty to thirty minutes. Bad jokes all the time. Once in awhile, you'd get to go on a field trip to figure out how to buy fresh prawns, or see what pigs look like on the inside.

Of course, he made use of all the tricks of television. Tricks like "not actually eating what you didn't cook long enough to a food-safe temperature" and "mysteriously procuring a plate of finished food from behind the counter to replace the stuff that's still frying." I never felt tricked, though. He'd always admit it, which was a step above the rest of the TV cooks. Legitimacy. That was big back then.

Every adult will tell you that you must never meet your heroes. That's advice you only learn the value of when you stow away on a Greyhound bus headed towards San Francisco to catch a taping. It was the same old story you've heard a thousand times from other once-kids: I arrived well before the show, but just in time to see my idol beating Jacques Pepin to within an inch of his life with a baseball bat. Some kind of argument over onion slicing techniques, how much of the skin was usable in the meal. Pepin went down, hard. I was frozen in fear, too scared to check if he was still alive. Didn't want to give myself away.

I stayed for the rest of the taping, though. He made chicken stewed in a fruit sauce, a really delightful and unexpected combination that still hewed close to traditional Hong Kong cooking. Jacques Pepin showed up about halfway through the episode to shake his hand, but he seemed reserved and distant. Bruises hidden from the camera by makeup. Scared, too, probably, shaking so much we could see it in the studio audience, but didn't want to break the spell of the magic of television.

Everything turned out great in the end. The sauce was a hit when I got back home, and kept Family Services out of my living room for another year or two before they figured out that my folks really weren't coming back from their last attempt to get hired as trapeze artists.

[dauntless-gothamite]

Kiss Me Under the Mistletoe

Fandom: Venom (Marvel) Pairing: Eddie Brock x Venom Summary: Eddie and Venom prepare for Christmas together, and Venom has no idea what to get Eddie. When an argument gives him a gift idea, Eddie wakes up and fears that Venom has left, he voices all the feelings he has been keeping hidden.  A/N: I wrote this yesterday and I’m hoping it will help me get out of my writing slump; let me know what you think!!

- December 20th -

Eddie rolls out of bed with a groan as Venom emerges from his shoulder, forming as a floating head. “Eddie, what are we doing today?” Venom asks, antsy after waiting hours in Eddie’s body for his host to finish sleeping. Eddie places a mug under the coffee machine, sighs, and turns around to lean against the counter and face Venom before answering. 

“I am going to schedule an interview with an artist who has been doing interactive exhibits around San Francisco, and then, maybe–just maybe–we can go get a Christmas tree.” Eddie feels Venom shuffling around in his mind for a moment and thankful when it stops, Venom quickly having found the answer he was looking for. 

“A Christmas tree would be nice, Eddie. We will get the biggest one we can!” Venom exclaims, buzzing with excitement. Eddie grabs his now-ready coffee and takes a sip, hissing as he burns his tongue. 

“Woah, woah, I said maybe!” Eddie answers as he pulls his shirt over his head and walks back towards his room, ready to get dressed for the day. The moment he finishes speaking, he feels the tough texture left behind by the burn in his mouth cool and fade, and a small smile settles on his lips. “Thanks, buddy,” he says. 

“...Now can we get the tree?” Venom asks. 

Sighing, Eddie says, “Yes, we can get the tree, just as soon as I’ve set up this interview.” Venom hums and Eddie takes that as him agreeing and continues with his morning routine. 

Venom stays silent and still as Eddie talks on the phone and schedules an interview, thoughts of Christmas filling his mind. From what he has seen in Eddie’s memories and on television, Venom has gathered that Christmas is about two things: people you love and presents. Unexpectedly, Venom starts to feel unsure about a lot of things. Eddie has some Christmas traditions; would he want Venom to be a part of them? What would he get for Eddie? Would Eddie get anything for him? Just as he starts to spiral, Eddie says, “You can come out now, V! Let me grab my wallet and put my shoes on, and then we can go.” He has a relaxed smile on his face, and Venom thinks to himself: this is when he is happy. How can I make him feel like this for Christmas?

- December 21st -

“Eddie, Eddie! Today we are going to decorate the tree!” Venom says, pulling Eddie from his sleep and extending a tentacle holding a mug of fresh coffee towards him. 

“Yeah, but not at,” Eddie pauses to look at the clock on his nightstand, “7:15 in the morning,” he grumbles. 

“That is why I made the disgusting drink you like so much,” Venom explains. Eddie just rolls his eyes and gets up, ready to get to work. 

An hour later, Eddie sits on the couch, Venom’s head floating next to him, to admire their handiwork. “You know, V, you’re pretty good at this whole tree decorating thing,” he muses. 

“Of course I am, Eddie,” Venom replies. “I do not know how you get anything done with so few arms.” Eddie chuckles and that same smile from the day before once again appeared on his face.

“Yeah, me neither,” Eddie jokes. Turning to Venom, he continues, “I don’t really have anything to do today; do you want to watch a Christmas movie?”

“I would like to watch Elf. The internet says it is very funny,” Venom says.

“Really? Because I was thinking we could watch “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” Eddie replies, fighting not to smirk.

“Why?”

“Well, you know, weirdly-colored not-human thing living far away from civilization-” Venom playfully slaps Eddie with a tentacle, causing him to break and release the laugh he’d been holding back. 

“No, we are watching Elf,” Venom insists. 

“Alright, Elf it is,” Eddie says as he begins to set the television up. 

- December 22nd -

The interview Eddie had set up the day prior has been going on for the past hour, and Venom is starting to get bored. So far, he has occupied himself by moving around in Eddie’s body, but he decides it’s time to see how much longer he’ll have to hide. “Eddie, how much longer?” he asks in Eddie’s mind. 

Eddie glances at his watch and mutters “Twenty, max,” into his shoulder. The artist across from him raises a brow and twists their lips, so Eddie plays it off as a cough to the best of his ability. The next twenty minutes are some of the slowest in Venom’s life. But, he knows how much Eddie hates it when they interrupt him when he’s working, so he remains silent. 

As they leave the coffee shop where the interview had taken place, Venom suddenly stops Eddie in his tracks. “What is that?” he asks, extending a tendril from the crook of Eddie’s neck to point at the marshmallow and whipped cream covered drink in a passing stranger’s hand. 

“Oh that? That, my friend, is hot chocolate. Anne used to make it all the time when it got cold out. It never tastes as good when I make it, so I haven’t had it much lately.” Venom hums noncommittally, a melancholic feeling washing over them as Eddie reminisces about Anne. That has been happening a lot more lately, they notice. “Tell you what, V,” Eddie says. “Why don’t we walk a few blocks to the holiday market and get some before we go home?”

Shortly thereafter, two large takeaway cups of hot chocolate in hand, Eddie ducks into an alleyway, and Venom emerges from his shoulder so they can enjoy their hot chocolate together. 

- December 23rd -

The sun is starting to dip below the horizon line, and Eddie is standing in front of the mirror with Venom fussing over his hair and outfit. “Venom, why do I have to look so nice, we aren’t trying to get Annie back or do anything funny, remember?” he scowls. 

“Don’t pout, Eddie, we like to look good for Anne! And Dan, too! Besides, she will probably want to take pictures.” Eddie sighs and nods, letting Venom pull various items out of his closet until he has decided on an acceptable outfit. In the end, Eddie is wearing a dark red sweater under his signature leather jacket and dark designer jeans with leather boots. 

“We should get going, we don’t want whatever Anne has cooked to get cold before we arrive,” Eddie says, turning away from the mirror. On the way out, Venom grabs the bottle of wine Eddie had left on the counter to take to dinner and delivers it into Eddie’s hands before disappearing back inside Eddie. “Thanks, V” Eddie smiles. 

“You are welcome,” he replies. 

“Come on in,” Anne greets when Eddie rings the doorbell after parking the motorcycle down the street. “You look nice,” she nods in approval.

“Thanks. Oh, this is for you,” he says, holding the wine bottle out to Anne, who accepts it and leads him into the kitchen, where Dan is adding garnish to a chicken dish. “Dan, nice to see you,” Eddie greets.

“Likewise!” Dan says and makes his way over to shake Eddie’s hand. “Is uh…are you-” he starts awkwardly. 

“Yeah, Venom is here,” he says at the same time that Venom forms a floating head connected to Eddie by just a few strands of gooey material at the back of his shoulder. 

“Merry Christmas, Dan! Merry Christmas, Anne!” Venom says loudly. 

“Merry Christmas, Venom,” Anne replies fondly. “Dinner is ready, let’s head into the dining room,” she says and falls into step beside Dan. At the threshold of the doorway between the kitchen and the dining room, Dan and Anne pause, and Dan leans down to kiss Anne. “Mind the mistletoe,” Anne teases over her shoulder to Eddie and Venom before looking up to the plant hanging above her. Eddie laughs and shakes his head, walking under the mistletoe without pause, and Venom makes a mental note to ask Eddie about the mysterious ceiling-plant later. 

- December 24th -

Venom has been more quiet than usual this morning, and Eddie notices. “Hey, V, everything alright?” he asks after Venom fails to comment on how disgusting coffee is by Eddie’s third sip. 

“Yes, Eddie.”

“Are you sure? Because you are being really quiet this morning.”

“I am just thinking,” they reply.

“Well that’s dangerous,” Eddie jokes. “What are you thinking about?”

Venom hesitates before answering, “Mistletoe. Why do we not have any?” 

Eddie coughs and sputters, cheeks turning rosy, and he says, “Well, mistletoe… the thing about mistletoe is that you are supposed to kiss someone if you’re standing under it together. So it works well at parties, you know, when there are a lot of people. But here, it’s just us, so it doesn’t really make any sense,” Eddie explains.

“Then why do Anne and Dan have it?”

“Because Anne and Dan have friends who come over for holiday parties,” Eddie answers quickly. He takes a breath and adds, “And because they are in a relationship.”

“If they are in a relationship, then they can kiss anytime they want. Having a plant to tell them when to kiss makes no sense!” 

“I guess it doesn’t,” Eddie muses. “But it’s a fun holiday tradition,” he shrugs. 

“But you did not want to kiss me under the mistletoe,” Venom points out. Eddie's cheeks go from a light pink to a deep red in just a few seconds, and Venom feels his heart rate spike. 

“Well you and I are, um, we-”

“Yes, Eddie?”

“We aren’t that, we aren’t a couple, so I can’t just kiss you, especially not in front of my ex-fiancee and her new fiancee!”

“What about when we are here?” Venom pushes. 

“Venom, I don’t want to kiss you, okay! Sometimes, I don’t even want to talk to you! Just shut up about it!” Eddie snaps, and Venom stills beside him. Without a word, Venom dissolves against his skin and settles silently inside him. 

Eddie regrets yelling at Venom almost instantly, but he knows that if he says something, he’ll have to explain, and he isn’t ready for that. How can he tell Venom that for a while now, but during the past month especially, he has felt differently towards them? That Venom’s enthusiasm to decorate the Christmas tree not only gave him hope that the holidays wouldn’t be lonely this year, even though Annie isn’t here, but also made him think that they could even be better? That the sight of Venom licking the last dregs of hot chocolate mix out of a cup made him think about that tongue in completely inappropriate ways? He couldn’t. 

Eddie and Venom don’t speak for the rest of the day. Eddie just hopes things will be okay in the morning. 

- December 25th -

Eddie is pleased to wake up on Christmas morning to the smell of coffee next to him, and he is even happier to see that it’s just after 9:00 in the morning. He smiles, ready to thank Venom, when he pauses. Venom didn’t wake him up this morning. He looks around the apartment quickly, as though that would give him some kind of reassurance that Venom hasn’t left, when he finds the note:

Dear Eddie, 

Merry Christmas. I did not know what to get you, but last night you helped me figure out the perfect gift: you have a whole day to yourself, where you will not have to hear me think or talk.

- Venom

Eddie sets the note down and stands in shock for a moment. Did Venom mean he’d left Eddie’s body and would be back, or was he still there, just silent and still? And if he’d left, where would he go? Would he be okay? Eddie is starting to freak out at this point and gets dressed and brushes his teeth and rushes out the door, turning to stuff the note in his pocket at the last moment. 

Unthinking, he speeds towards Anne’s house and once he’s there, he’s knocking frantically. She opens the door, and he shoves past her, looking around before turning to her. “Have you seen Venom?” he asks. 

“What?”

“Have you seen Venom!” he repeats as he takes the crumpled note out of his pocket and shoves it into her hands forcefully. “Look,” he says, unable to resist reading the words once again. She doesn’t answer right away, taking time to read the note.

Then she looks up, shoulders slumped downward, and asks “What did you do?”

“I yelled at them,” Eddie admits quietly, shame heating his face. “I don’t know, I freaked out, and I just–I’ve yelled at him before, maybe he finally had too much.” 

“Hold on, don’t freak out,” Anne says, pacing a few steps back and forth. 

“I’m already freaked out!” Eddie snaps back. 

“Okay, well what did you and Venom argue about?” Anne asks. “Maybe that will help us figure out how to get him to come out.”

“That’s if he’s still here in the first place!”

“They are, I can tell,” Anne says, eyeing Eddie.

“How? I can’t tell and it’s my body!” Eddie replies, patting himself down and turning around in a circle to look over his shoulder in search of Venom. 

“I just can, but that’s not important,” she sighs. “Now stop moving around and tell me what you two were arguing about.”

Eddie stills, hesitating before he speaks. “Mistletoe.”

That stops Anne in her tracks. “Mistletoe?”

“Yeah. V had all these questions and he was confused and I think maybe I offended him or something…” he trails off.

“And?” Anne prompts.

“And what?”

“I know you, so I know there’s more you’re not saying. Out with it, now.”

Eddie runs his hands down his face and takes a deep breath. “I said that I don’t want to kiss him… and that sometimes I don’t even want to talk to him.”

“Oh, Eddie,” Anne says, deflating. “You’re such an idiot.”

“Hey! Wait, what?” he asks, dropping his hands. Anne pinches the bridge of her nose and leads Eddie over to the couch and takes a seat beside him. 

“You know Venom has been looking out for you for a while, right?”

“Yeah, but I don’t see where you’re going with this,” Eddie says, furrowing his eyebrows. 

“Then why would you tell him you don’t want to kiss him?” Annie accuses. 

“Wh-because I don’t!” Eddie replies too fast and crosses his arms over his chest. 

“You do. I’ve noticed things between you two are different, and that’s okay! And you can’t seriously expect me to believe you’d rather not talk to him,” Anne adds. 

All of a sudden, Eddie’s defenses drop. “Yeah, you’re right. It has only been last night and this morning, but… I miss him,” he says. “I’m scared, Annie,” he whispers. “What if he left last night and something happened and I can’t do anything?” he confesses, unshed tears making his eyes glassy. 

“He didn’t leave, I already told you. Now, I have an idea, okay?” Anne says and rests a hand on Eddie’s shoulder.

“You’re not going to throw a knife at me or something, right?” Eddie asks, trying to lighten the mood, but the joke falls flat. 

“No,” Anne smiles sadly. “Now walk over there,” she points to the mistletoe, “and talk to him. Be honest. I’ll be upstairs; I’m going to take Dan some coffee,” she says, rising and exiting the room. I hope this works, Eddie thinks to himself before striding over to the doorway and standing under the mistletoe. 

“Alright, V. I hope you’re in there and that you’re listening,” he breathes out shakily. “I’m sorry for yelling at you and for the things I said. They aren’t true. The truth is that–okay, I really hope you’re listening because this is going to be really embarrassing otherwise–I really want to kiss you under the mistletoe. And not under the mistletoe. I just want to kiss you, I have for a while now, I think. And I like that we can talk all the time, even if I shouldn’t be talking to you at a certain time, like at work or something, because I still want to. And I was, I am, nervous because well, I’ve never wanted to kiss–and maybe do some other stuff,” he adds, blushing, “with an alien that lives in my body, so it’s all a little unprecedented, so if you’re in there listening, can you please come out right now so I can kiss you under this stupid plant?” 

For a moment, nothing happens, and Eddie doesn’t know what to do. He didn’t realize he’d started crying until now, and he wipes his cheek dry only for it to be licked by what is unmistakably Venom’s tongue. Eddie looks up and finds himself pressed against the thin edge of the doorway and Venom’s hulking black figure leaning over him. Eddie searches his opal eyes for something he can’t quite name before thinking fuck it and standing up on his tiptoes to pull Venom in for a kiss. When he finally pulls back, he meets Venom’s toothy smile with one of his own and says “Merry Christmas, V.”

“Merry Christmas, Eddie,” Venom answers. “Can we do that again?”

“I’d love to,” Eddie smiles, laughing as Venom reaches up and rips the mistletoe down. 

“It is in the way, I do not like the feeling of it on the back of my head,” they explain. They both lean in for another kiss only to be interrupted by Anne, who is standing just a few feet away next to Dan, clearing her throat. Eddie groans at the mirthful glimmer in Anne’s eyes, knowing he’s about to regret ever coming here. 

“I’m glad you two figured things out,” Dan starts diplomatically, only to be interrupted by Anne.

“Me too,” Anne says with a smirk. “But why don’t you both go home; we can meet up tonight for dinner, okay?” Eddie nods and Venom morphs into his floating head form.

“That would be very nice, thank you, Anne!” he says.

“No problem, big guy,” she says, winking. “See you later. Merry Christmas!”

“Merry Christmas!” Eddie and Venom say in unison, leaving quickly, eager to continue where they left off. Eddie decides he can worry about Anne’s teasing later; for now, he just wants to enjoy the day with Venom. 

[dustedmagazine]

2023: Bryon Rides Anxiety’s Peaks and Valleys

Yo La Tengo

This year really tossed us all around like a gigantic blender, swirling everything together into a writhing mass of fine particles. It’s been quite the ride. Thankfully amidst the chaos, there was music. The vast cornucopia of exhilarating sounds wound itself around the many genres, and the dozens of releases spread across these twelve months. It provided the healing salve to combat the bedlam lying in the realm beyond our ears.

For me, live music in 2023 was about quality over quantity. The two shows that affected me most this past year were aligned along the theme of reunion. I’ve been a fan of Yo La Tengo since high school but had strayed from the band’s past few releases. This Stupid World brought me back into their universe. I jumped at the chance to see them in Toronto; it had been decades since I last saw them play live. They played two sets, one soft and one loud, and they didn’t disappoint. As an added bonus, I got to meet fellow Dusted writer Ian Mathers at the show. Toronto post-rockers Do Make Say Think played their first show in six years in March, around my birthday. I wasn’t going to miss it. They unleashed an enticing set of music, playing material from across their entire catalog with intense energy. It was hypnotic and exhilarating. They were also jovial, joking about the current career prospects of the band members. It was a fun night.

Many perennial favorite groups and artists released excellent albums this year. Yo La Tengo returned to their early Matador form with This Stupid World, while The Clientele expanded into new, lush and uncanny territory on I’m Not There Anymore. Califone’s Villagers pushed the band’s adventurous, bluesy roots-rock into an experimental wonderland. Bill Orcutt released Jump On It, revealing his softer side. The Live in Brooklyn 2011 set from Sonic Youth found the group trying out songs they rarely played live, as they wound down their decades-long existence. Joshua Abrams’ Natural Information Society showed that they’re not done unleashing mesmerizing sonic salvos with Since Time is Gravity. Finally, Daniel Bachman continued to push his singular brand of Americana toward the outer limits with When the Roses Come Again, and Intercepted Message found Osees covering Cisco Systems’ telephone hold music. It was a good year for long-beloved institutions.

New to me this year was the band Famous Mammals and their polyglot post-punk album Instant Pop Expressionism Now! I returned to it time and time again; it was the soundtrack to my late summer and my autumn. Digging deeper into the San Francisco band’s origins, I discovered a previously hidden world of Bay Area post-punk, populated by a tight-knit scene that originated with The World, which would fracture into Famous Mammals, Non Plus Temps, Blues Lawyer, Children Maybe Later and others. The LP in question blends elements of Swell Maps, Young Marble Giants and Television Personalities, aligning with those outfits’ brashness, naivete, and wry sense of humor. It was at the top of my list in 2023 and led me to explore the SF underground further. That digging led me to Will York’s encyclopedic tome Who Cares Anyway? York gives an in-depth perspective to the goings on in the Bay Area from the post-hippie origins of its punk scene to the self-destructive chaos of Flipper and the visionary artistry behind acts such as Mr. Bungle, Caroliner, Thinking Fellers Union Local 282, et cetera. He also investigates the unique personalities that comprised the scene such as Brandon Kearney, Gregg Turkington, Seymour Glass, Barbara Manning, and Joe Pop-o-Pie. The book is worth exploring if you’re at all interested in any of the names I mentioned.

I always highlight at least one Canadian release, and this year I really got into the self-titled debut from Toronto duo You Can Can. The pairing of sound artist Andrew Zukerman and vocalist Felicity Williams is the perfect comingling of the familiar and the otherworldly. Alien soundscapes intercept beautifully crafted song forms, with synth squiggles and abstract patterns writhing alongside folk music signifiers. Let’s hope that You Can Can have more music in store for us in 2024 and beyond.

Bryon Hayes

[filmnoirfoundation]

NOIR CITY bonus screenings have been added!

Monday 1/30: TOO LATE FOR TEARS (5:00, 8:30) and WOMAN ON THE RUN (7:00) Wednesday 2/1: WOMAN ON THE RUN (5:30, 8:45) and TOO LATE FOR TEARS (7:00) Admission will be at regular Grand Lake Theater prices: Gen Adm $13; Child/Senior $9.50; Matinee $7.50 NOIR CITY passports will be honored for all screenings. TOO LATE FOR TEARS (1949)

For many years, all 35mm prints of "Too Late for Tears" (1949) were believed lost, but through the determined efforts of the Film Noir Foundation, enough original material has been discovered to enable a restoration, performed under the auspices of the UCLA Film & Television Archive. Based on a novel by future television titan Roy Huggins, and featuring Huggins' own brilliant screenplay, the film is a neglected masterpiece of noir, awaiting rediscovery. A suburban housewife (Lizabeth Scott) decides to keep a satchel of money accidentally tossed into her convertible, against the wishes of her husband (Arthur Kennedy). Dan Duryea plays the intended recipient of the cash and he’s not into sharing. The result? Mayhem and murder. Dir. Byron Haskin WOMAN ON THE RUN (1950)

A lost gem rediscovered! Thanks to the efforts of the Film Noir Foundation, this terrific 1950 film noir, the only American print of which was burned in a 2008 fire, has been rescued and restored to its original luster. Join the wild chase around San Francisco as a man goes into hiding after witnessing a gangland execution. Police bird-dog his wife Eleanor (Ann Sheridan), certain she’ll lead them to her husband, whose testimony against the killer could bring down a crime kingpin. But Eleanor and her hubbie are Splitsville—she never wants to see him again. When roguish newspaperman Danny Leggett (Dennis O’Keefe) charms Eleanor into helping him track down the hidden husband—there are unexpected, stunning and poignant results. This nervy, shot-on-location thriller is a witty and wise look at the travails of romance and marriage, and perhaps the best cinematic depiction ever of mid-20th century San Francisco. Dir. Norman Foster

[frankieking]

@august-atwood

To my August, 

When we decided we’d be together we always sort of knew it’d be forever. I think we danced around that for a while and we danced with stars in our eyes because we had easily fallen onto cloud 9. It’s odd for me as Frankie King to make such loud declarations. I won’t say I didn’t believe in love. Coming from the closest thing to Love Island on television, love was literally everywhere. It’s hard not to believe when everyone was falling left and right. I wasn’t a product of love but I was surrounded by it. My grandparents, like yours, had fallen instantly and it was a story I begged them to tell time and time again. Love was never the factor. It was whether it would happen to me. I had accepted that perhaps in this lifetime, it wouldn’t and I thought I’d be okay with that but nothing could have prepared me for meeting the calmest yet most energetic soul I’ve ever met in my life. I guess I have Raj to thank for turning my life upside down. You’re like a beautiful accident. Now hear me out, I had already fulfilled the deep void in my heart when I found the love I came back to San Francisco with. I wasn’t entirely aware that there was room for more. A lot more. You were hidden then and now you’re bigger than the Earth that consumes us. You’re bigger than me. You are no longer hidden and I can’t bear the idea of experiencing that absence again. 

I love you forever and ever and ever and you know the rest. 

Always yours, 

Your Frankie. 

[kesavabraeger]

Kesava Braeger’s Innovative Ceiling & Wall Designs

In the bustling construction and interior design world, creating spaces that blend aesthetics with functionality has always been a challenge. Kesava Braeger, a seasoned architect and interior designer based in the San Francisco Bay Area, has built a stellar reputation for his remarkable ability to redefine ceilings and walls, turning them into stunning centerpieces of homes and commercial spaces alike. With over two decades of experience, Kesava Braeger’s work stands out for its intricate craftsmanship, innovative design, and attention to detail, offering a unique blend of artistry and technical expertise.

A Visionary in Architectural Design

Kesava Braeger’s journey into the world of construction and interior design is unconventional, starting not from formal training but from a deep passion for DIY projects he encountered on television. What began as a hobby quickly blossomed into a full-fledged career, and today, Kesava is known for his exceptional ability to turn ceilings and walls into works of art. His clients, many of whom are high-profile individuals and businesses, seek him out for his distinctive approach to architecture and interior design.

His philosophy is rooted in the idea that every space has untapped potential—particularly in areas like ceilings and walls, which are often overlooked. Kesava Braeger has reimagined these surfaces, turning them into visual masterpieces that enhance the overall ambiance of the room while complementing the architectural style of the building. Whether it’s a high-end residential property or a commercial space, Kesava’s designs elevate the environment, making each project truly one-of-a-kind.

Innovative Ceilings: A Signature Style

One of Kesava Braeger’s most notable contributions to the design world is his approach to ceilings. While most designers focus on walls or flooring, Kesava realized early in his career that ceilings offer a unique canvas for creativity. His innovative ceiling designs are not only visually striking but also functional, incorporating lighting, acoustics, and ventilation systems seamlessly into the structure.

For example, in a recent luxury home renovation project in the Bay Area, Kesava designed a multi-level ceiling that played with height and depth, creating a layered effect that gave the room an airy and expansive feel. Integrated LED lighting was subtly placed within the design, enhancing the room’s ambiance without drawing attention to the light sources. His ceiling designs often incorporate natural elements, such as wood or stone, adding warmth and texture to modern spaces.

Kesava Braeger’s expertise also extends to acoustic ceilings, where his designs help improve sound quality in large, open spaces like conference rooms and auditoriums. By combining his understanding of materials with a deep knowledge of acoustics, he ensures that these spaces are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Wall Designs that Tell a Story

In addition to his ceiling work, Kesava Braeger’s wall designs are equally captivating. His approach goes beyond simple surface decoration; instead, he treats walls as narrative spaces that can convey a sense of history, luxury, or tranquility, depending on the client’s needs. For one of his projects, he created an entire wall design using reclaimed wood, preserving the material’s natural imperfections and textures to evoke a rustic, yet elegant atmosphere. This concept was particularly popular among clients looking for sustainable and eco-friendly design solutions.

His work often incorporates geometric patterns, intricate moldings, and custom textures that add depth and character to the walls, transforming them into focal points rather than mere backdrops. In some cases, Kesava integrates technology into his wall designs, such as hidden panels for entertainment systems or smart home controls, combining the old-world craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation.

Client-Centered Design Approach

Kesava Braeger’s success is not only due to his technical skill but also his ability to connect with his clients. He is known for his generosity and kindness, which extends to his client relationships. He takes the time to understand their vision, lifestyle, and needs before embarking on a project. This client-centered approach ensures that every design is personalized and tailored to the specific requirements of each project.

Collaboration is at the heart of his design philosophy. Kesava works closely with his clients to incorporate their ideas, providing them with detailed visual plans and 3D renderings so they can see the potential of their space before construction begins. This transparency and commitment to client satisfaction have earned him a loyal following, with many clients returning for multiple projects or referring him to others.

Beyond Aesthetics: The Future of Sustainable Design

As sustainability becomes an increasingly important aspect of modern architecture, Kesava Braeger is at the forefront of integrating eco-friendly materials and practices into his designs. He is constantly researching new technologies and sustainable materials that can be used in ceiling and wall construction, such as recycled wood, low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient lighting systems. His designs prioritize both beauty and environmental responsibility, making him a sought-after designer for those looking to build or renovate with sustainability in mind.

The Legacy of Kesava Braeger

Kesava Braeger continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in ceiling and wall design. His unique blend of ambition, creativity, and dedication has set him apart in the industry, and his work is a testament to his belief that every surface in a building has the potential to inspire. With a background in accountancy and a passion for design, Kesava’s journey from DIY enthusiast to a master craftsman is nothing short of inspirational.

For anyone looking to create spaces that are both functional and beautiful, Kesava Braeger is a name to watch. His innovative approach to ceilings and walls will continue to shape the future of architectural design, one breathtaking project at a time.

[best-losangele-ca]

Discover the Ultimate Urban Living at The Met Apartments in South Park, Downtown LA

If you're in search of luxurious apartments in Downtown LA, look no further than The Met Apartments. Situated at 950 Flower St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, this prime location offers the epitome of urban living, right in the heart of South Park's Arts and Entertainment District. Whether you're looking for a studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom apartment, The Met Apartments has something to offer for everyone.

The Met Apartments are strategically located just a stone's throw away from LA Live, Crypto.com Arena, and Regal Premiere Cinemas. This means that entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences are never far from your doorstep. Beyond the incredible nearby attractions, residents also enjoy proximity to locally loved cafes and restaurants, the Financial District, and prestigious institutions like FIDM. The South Park Business Improvement District (BID) keeps the community engaged with "Meet Your Neighbors" mixers and other locally curated events, making it an ideal place for those seeking both convenience and a vibrant social scene.

The apartments at The Met boast a range of attractive features, from balconies and patios to keyless entry and in-home washer/dryer facilities. With premium fixtures and reimagined interiors, you'll find yourself in a stylish and comfortable urban oasis. The building amenities include a pool, a smoke-free community, beautifully landscaped grounds, a fitness center, and much more. Don't miss the chance to experience the ultimate urban lifestyle in the heart of Downtown LA. Visit their website https://rent.brookfieldproperties.com/properties/the-met.html or call them at 213-224-3571 for more information. Make The Met Apartments your new home today and enjoy all the perks of living in the vibrant South Park neighborhood.

The Iconic Sights and Hidden Delights of Los Angeles

Los Angeles, often referred to simply as LA, is a city that beckons to the dreamers, the adventurers, and the curious souls. It's a city of boundless possibilities, where the iconic sights and hidden delights intertwine to create a unique urban experience.

One of the most iconic sights in Los Angeles is the Hollywood Sign, perched high in the Santa Monica Mountains. This legendary symbol of the entertainment industry is an embodiment of dreams and aspirations. Visitors from around the world hike the nearby trails or snap pictures as they explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where over 2,600 brass stars honor celebrities from the world of film, television, music, and more. But beyond the glitz and glamour, there's a hidden LA to discover. For example, the Griffith Observatory offers not only awe-inspiring views of the city but also a chance to explore the universe through its impressive exhibits and public telescopes. Downtown Los Angeles, often overlooked, is a treasure trove of cultural gems. The revitalized Arts District, with its street art and galleries, and the historic Olvera Street, a taste of old Los Angeles, offer unique and often overlooked experiences.

Los Angeles is a city of dreams and diversity, where the iconic and the hidden seamlessly coexist. From its world-renowned landmarks to its off-the-beaten-path gems, LA offers an endless array of experiences for those willing to explore. Whether you're a movie buff, a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or an art lover, Los Angeles has something unique and delightful waiting for you around every corner.

Exploring the Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco's Iconic Landmark

The Golden Gate Bridge, completed in 1937, is a suspension bridge that spans a breathtaking 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers). Its vivid orange-red color, known as "International Orange," makes it instantly recognizable and adds to its allure. The bridge connects San Francisco to Marin County, and its two towering Art Deco-style towers rise 746 feet (227 meters) above the bay. The bridge is not only an essential transportation link but also a stunning work of art that enhances the city's skyline.

One of the best ways to experience the Golden Gate Bridge's splendor is by strolling or biking along its pedestrian walkways. You can capture panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the Marin Headlands while breathing in the fresh sea air. Additionally, there are designated viewpoints like Battery Spencer and Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point, which offer perfect photo opportunities to capture the bridge's magnificence. The Golden Gate Bridge is not just a landmark but a symbol of innovation, resilience, and the enduring spirit of San Francisco. Whether you're driving across it, cycling under its colossal towers, or simply admiring it from a distance, this iconic structure is a testament to human achievement and a reminder of the city's unique beauty.

California: The Golden State of Diversity and Innovation

California, often referred to as "The Golden State," is a diverse and dynamic region on the western coast of the United States. With a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a reputation as a global leader in innovation, California is a state of many facets.

From the towering Redwood forests in the north to the sun-soaked beaches of the south, California's geography is as diverse as its population. The state's expansive coastline stretches over 800 miles along the Pacific Ocean, making it a haven for surfers, sun-seekers, and nature enthusiasts. The state's striking topography includes Death Valley, the hottest place on Earth, and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range, which offers pristine wilderness and world-class skiing. With such geographical variety, California offers something for everyone, whether you're exploring the deserts of Joshua Tree National Park, hiking in the rugged terrain of Big Sur, or driving along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway.

California's diversity extends beyond its landscapes to its people and culture. It is a melting pot of different ethnicities and backgrounds, with a thriving immigrant population. The state's cultural tapestry is woven with influences from around the world, resulting in a vibrant arts and culinary scene. California is also a global leader in technology and innovation, home to Silicon Valley, the birthplace of companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook. The state's commitment to sustainability and green initiatives is another noteworthy aspect, with renewable energy projects and environmental policies leading the way in the fight against climate change.

[tga-ines-soares]

Hell Comic Book From Hell takes as its premise Stephen Knight's theory that the Jack the Ripper murders were part of a conspiracy to conceal the birth of an illegitimate royal baby fathered by Prince Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence, slightly modified,the involvement of Walter Sickert is reduced, and Knight's allegation that the child's mother was a Catholic has been dropped. Knight's theories have been described as a good fictional read" whose "conclusions have been disproved numerous time.

I like the are work because is very realistic and you can actually see what going on and i love all the detail within the comic. The comic has extraordinary detail and the details so little and its so impressing.

Locke and Key comics Locke & Key is a series of comic books written by Joe Hill and illustrated by Gabriel Rodriguez, which have gotten collected as graphic novels. Seven volumes of the novels have appeared so far, including a collection of one-shots. The original series, which takes place in the early 2010s, though the first issue appeared in 2008, revolves around the three Locke children, Tyler (eldest brother), Kinsey, his sister, a year younger than him and Bode, by far the youngest. When the children's father is murdered, they and their deeply traumatized mother move from their home in San Francisco to Lovecraft, Massachusetts, into a manor known as "The Keyhouse"; their dad's childhood home, who he always swore would protect them if anything happened to him. Turns out, he wasn't far off the mark — for hidden within the Keyhouse and its grounds are dozens of magical keys, each with a fantastic power, from becoming a ghost to summoning shadows to do your bidding. But their father's death was no random killing; a dark, malevolent force was behind it, and it will stop at nothing to claim the most terrible key of all. A failed television pilot of Locke & Key was made in 2011 for Fox. A trailer can be viewed here. A second and more successful adaptation, directed by Andy Muschietti was picked up by Netflix and premiered in 2020 - see Locke & Key 2020.

I like this art work because some are very realistic and the other aren't. All the fonts are similar in a way the "O" title is like a key hole and half of the title looks like a key. All 4 comics has shading the drawing to make more realistic and to make it standout. I love some of the covers are with angle wings. The size different of the character, if the character small which means its further away form the bigger which means its closer. The hair on the character some of them is blocked and some has highlight.

[youmakemelikecharity]

Living Room in San Francisco Large trendy open concept living room library image with white walls, a metal fireplace, a ribbon fireplace, and a hidden television.

[cleoenfaserum]

SAN FRANCISCO HIDDEN BODY.

Let's get into Marcus Sakey in situ research for his crime novels into the lurid transgressions carried out in San Francisco. Marcus examines the infamous murder of Harvey Milk, rides along with the San Jose police to uncover the fear and greed which created the Vigilance Committee during the gold rush, and tries to get inside the mind of the Zodiac killer.

There is a Spanish saying that proclaims in its savvynest that "All that glitters is not gold". Let's jump right in...

(743-1 VID) LINK: https://ok.ru/video/4400404826671

There are two movies that stick out in my mind off hand which have San Francisco as protagonist. They are a trolley crash (The Rock) and the other a car chase (Bullitt). Both are really mind boggling fantastic scenes and I wouldn't want you to miss it for anything in the world.

(743-2 VID) LINK: https://youtu.be/JE8tV1_7SVM

Watch the film THE ROCK (1996) by clicking on the (743- VID) LINK: https://ok.ru/video/3643042105858

Marcus first story deals with the Harvey Milk murder.

I thought Marcus gave an excellent resume and I will leave it at that. More information at: Moscone–Milk assassinations - Wikipedia

Bullitt (1968)- Wikipedia, la enciclopedia libre

(743-3 vid) LINK: https://youtu.be/FJZ-BHBKyos

Watch film at the following link: https://ok.ru/video/4321975470798

Zodiac Killer - Wikipedia Zodiac (film) - Wikipedia

Zodiac is a 2007 American neo-noir mystery thriller film directed by David Fincher from a screenplay by James Vanderbilt, based on the non-fiction books by Robert Graysmith, Zodiac (1986) and Zodiac Unmasked (2002).

The film tells the story of the manhunt for the Zodiac Killer, a serial murderer who terrorized the San Francisco Bay Area during the late 1960s and early 1970s, taunting police with letters, bloodstained clothing, and ciphers mailed to newspapers. The case remains one of the United States' most infamous unsolved crimes.

(743-4 VID) LINK: https://ok.ru/video/6307332557553

I found this little bit of history, well, a cute Californian vigilante series TV programe and the title could not suite better my argument.

The Californians: Season 1 Episode 1: The Vigilantes Begin 

The Californians is a half-hour Western television series, set during the California Gold Rush of the 1850s, which broadcast  from September 24, 1957, to May 26, 1959, during two seasons composed of 69 episodes

(743-4 VID) https://youtu.be/j0najZpoLCQ

READ MORE: The Californians (TV series) - Wikipedia

Some mining history, interesting...

(743-5 VID) LINK: https://youtu.be/niAThj8qaSg

REF: 743

[legohlas]

Open Living Room San Francisco A large farmhouse living room with an open concept, beige floor, slate floor, white walls, and a hidden television is an example.

[cathtatedaily]

Living Room San Francisco Ideas for a large, open-concept living room remodel with white walls, a traditional fireplace, a stone fireplace, and a hidden television

[bea-lele-carmen]

Interesting essays about Unconventional hippies resistence against the conformist society

The following research project will discuss how exactly the hippie counterculture movement believed the dominant mainstream culture was corrupt, inherently flawed and how Hippies therefore challenged these values by striving for their own utopia. During the 1950s, a sense of uniformity and conformity was prevalent in the American society, as the young and old alike followed the mainstreams norms rather than striking out on their own. The 1950s was a time of unprecedented wealth for many Americans. Many people enjoyed lives of comfort and convenience. By the end of the decade, however, some of the young people in America began to become dissatisfied with the dullness of their everyday lives. They started searching for something more meaningful.…show more content… The hippie counterculture began as a result of young people who decided to go against and seek freedom from the strict and conservative education that their parents were inflicting on them, the principles of the Cold War, and the violence of the Vietnam War - they were generally dissatisfied with the consensus culture that had developed and wanted to distance themselves from the mainstream middle class…show more content… Like the Beats before them, the Hippies came to believe that could expand their minds and help them to discover hidden truths and be more creative. One of the largest events for promoting music and alternative ways of thinking occurred in 1967 at the Human Be-In at San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Hippies went against the values of the middle class society as they encouraged the experimental Music Festivals An important factor that was part of the counterculture was music; Music was a way of expressing thoughts and this was what the counter culture was all about, people started listening to songs that talked about poverty, war, and everyday issues that hippies wanted to

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[mortalclace]

Craftsman Living Room San Francisco Remodeling ideas for a craftsman-style living room with a medium-tone wood floor, a bar, brown walls, and a hidden television

[confronttheconfidencegap]

San Francisco Family Room Mid-sized contemporary enclosed game room idea with a beige floor and walls, a stone fireplace, a hidden television, and a standard fireplace.