ThePoliticsBar

Second Round - Trump's Many Foreign Failures

Trump’s Middle East Mess

Other Foreign Affairs

Third Round - Trump's Failed Administration

The Failed Republican Economy

Immigration Wars

Corruption Land

Fourth Round - More News To Drink About

War Over Democracy

The Fight For Health

Miscellaneous But Important

Fifth Round - Media, Entertainment & More

Media Matters

Movies, Music, & More

Sports Entertainment

Your Bar Regular Tonight

Bob Cesca, podcaster, broadcaster, journalist, artist, & host of The Bob Cesca Show, as well as co-host of the award-winning Trek Politics is back at the bar tonight. We’ll talk about Bob’s latest piece for The Banter, “Donald Trump Is Stealing Your Land” one of many stories the mainstream news media isn’t focused on much. We’ll also talk about Tuesday’s primary elections, Trump’s Middle East Mess, & more. Join us tonight!

Join us today, on any of our radio affiliates, or subscribe and listen ad-free anytime!

DOTD For Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 17:16:07 GMT

Today’s DOTD - Drink Of The Day - is a Joy Division Cocktail inspired by World Photography Day! For those who say, “What does an early post-punk band - Joy Division - have to do with photography?” Rock historians consider the band’s use of visual imagery, unique press portraits, & iconic album art to be one of the groups that helped open the worlds of rock & pop music to visual ideas that would explode in the decade after the band ended.

Origin of World Photography Day

The idea of a global day to celebrate photography was originally proposed by photography teacher O.P. Sharma of India in 1988. He pursued the idea, reaching out to different photography groups to coordinate, and as a result of his hard work, the first observance of World Photography Day happened in 1991. For a number of years, World Photography Day primarily consisted of in-person events held around India, and then slowly began to grow from there. World Photography Day first began to trend in a significant way online in August 2005. Starting in 2010, it was promoted for a time online as “World Photo Day” by entrepreneur Korske Ara of Australia, where interest in the concept continued to grow. Producer John Morzen of North America joined the effort, and through his work, oversight, and diligence over the last decade, World Photography Day has grown to how it is recognized and celebrated today. Now, every World Photography Day is marked annually around the world with events, workshops, photo walks, and most importantly, people sharing their photography and what it means to them!

A Brief History of The Origin Of Photography

Louis Daguerre was born on November 18, 1787, in Cormeilles-en-Parisis, France. His family was middle-class, though he grew up during a time of great political upheaval with the turmoil that was the French Revolution. The revolution involved the common working & poor people versus the rich bourgeoisie aristocrats. The poor wanted to improve their standard of living, and the ruling class wanted to hold onto their cheap labor & severe socioeconomic separation, that was made possible by King Louis XVI’s right-wing economic policies of pervasive economic inequality, severe debt spending, and large-scale deregulation. When the people could no longer withstand the oppression of the rich, the revolution exploded.

Historically, these kinds of events often spur young artists to create work that encapsulates the tumult of their era, and it did for young Daguerre as well, in the form of drawing.

Despite having a limited formal education, Daguerre was a natural artist. At the age of 13, he became apprenticed to an architect where he learned hands-on the mechanics of the art and the science of designing structures. This created the foundation for his understanding of how objects were built. Within a few years, Daguerre moved to Paris to apprentice in architecture, theatre design, and panoramic painting with Pierre Prévost, the first French panorama painter. Exceedingly adept at his skill of theatrical illusion, Daguerre would become a celebrated designer for the theatre, and later came to co-invent the diorama theatre with painter Charles Marie Bouton.

In the spring of 1821, Daguerre partnered with Bouton with the common goal of creating a unique kind theatrical experience. Daguerre had expertise in lighting and scenic effects, and Bouton was the more experienced painter. To create their newly named ‘diorama theatre’ the two men would take a large translucent canvas, measuring around 70 ft wide and 45 ft tall, and paint it on both sides. These paintings were vivid and detailed pictures, and were lit from different angles. The audience would first see one image, and then as the lights changed, the scene would transform, and they’d begin to see the painting on the other side of the screen.

At the same time Daguerre was inventing a new type of theatre, he was also involved in exploring photography

In 1829, Daguerre struck a partnership with fellow inventor Joseph-Nicephore Niépce to develop a method to permanently capture the fleeting images visible in a camera obscura. Niépce passed away suddenly in 1833, but Daguerre kept experimenting, finally achieving success around 1834. The process he used became known as daguerreotype. It used a polished sheet of silver-plated copper, treated with iodine to make it light-sensitive, which was exposed to an image under a lens, for several minutes or more; then that image was “fixed” to the polished sheet, using mercury vapor.

The existence of the process was first announced to the public in January of 1839—followed by an extraordinary move by the French government that would fuel the rapid growth of photography worldwide. Recognizing the enormous potential of this invention, the French government made a deal with Daguerre, acquiring the rights to the process in exchange for lifetime pensions for both Daguerre and Niépce’s son. Then the French government gave it all away. On August 19, 1839, the details of the new daguerreotype process were presented to the public as a gift to the world from France.

World Photography Day FAQs

Why is World Photography Day celebrated on August 19?

World Photo Day is celebrated on August 19 to commemorate the day in 1839 when the French government purchased the patent for the daguerreotype process. This invention, a groundbreaking photographic method, was then presented to the world as a free gift.

How many photos are taken each year?

Estimates suggest that over 1.8 trillion photos are taken globally each year, with the vast majority now captured on smartphones. This staggering number highlights photography’s pervasive role in modern communication and personal memory-keeping.

What is the origin of the word ‘photography’?

The word ‘photography’ was coined by British scientist Sir John Herschel in 1839. It comes from the Greek words ‘phōtós’ (light) and ‘graphê’ (drawing or writing), literally meaning ‘drawing with light.’

How To Celebrate World Photography Day

Take a photo of your world

World Photo Day is supposed to be about capturing your world. Take some time and really think about what exemplifies your world. Perhaps it’s something you’ve created with your hands or the love you have for your pet. Art is subjective so don’t be afraid to color outside the lines.

Learn about a famous photographer

There are so many photographers that have produced some of the most beautiful images in the world. Richard Avedon, Dorothea Lange, Gordon Parks, Ansel Adams, Annie Leibovitz, James Van Der Zee, and Robert Frank are just some of the names who have shown their expert talents with photography. Research a photographer that moves you and learn more about their history, work, & style.

Social media blitz

If you’re more of an appreciator of photos, you can check out the hashtag #WorldPhotoDay today and see the photos your fellow global citizens have taken. When you come across photos that move you, share them, as you credit & compliment the photographer. It’ll be sure to brighten their day.

5 Amazing Facts About World Photography Day

Moonshot

The first photo of the moon was taken in 1851.

Let them take pictures

Daguerre’s father named one of his daughters Marie Antoinette.

The dancing painter

When Daguerre went to Paris to apprentice, he was also an extra on the stage of Paris’ famed Opera and became known for his dancing skills.

Picture/Victoria

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had darkrooms installed at their royal residences, including Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, that they used to process their own photography.

Letter marked

The earliest known use of the abbreviated word “photo” was from Queen Victoria in an 1860 letter.

Why We Love World Photography Day

Photography is an art form

The art of taking photos isn’t just pointing and clicking. There’s so much that goes into photography that shouldn’t be overlooked. The background, the flash, color, shutter speed, and more all need to come together in just the right way to evoke a truly moving piece of art. Taking a day to really commend all those who have devoted their lives to this craft.

Great photography also helps us appreciate life

A great photographer can make the mundane appear spectacular. Everyday objects can take on a deeper meaning depending on the eye of the photographer. Today’s holiday is a chance to thank all those who see the beauty in unsuspecting things, and capture that beauty to share with the world.

In that spirit, we give you today’s Drink Of The Day, a Joy Division Cocktail

Ingredients

Here’s what you’re going to need for this drink:

Taking Control Of The Narrative

ThePoliticsBar — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 23:30:46 GMT

Between stupidity in politics & some of the news today, we’re swearing a lot more lately. So it makes sense one of our favorite foul-mouthed friends, the femme fatale of fricasseeing Trump & his freaks, Jo Carducci AKA JoJo from Jerz is dropping by to talk (& maybe swear a little off air) about all of it. Grab a drink & join us!

News On Tap For Tuesday, August 18, 2026

ThePoliticsBar — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 19:14:13 GMT

Today’s “News On Tap” may not quite be what you think - & that might not be a bad thing. We've got the news you need - and who’s misdirecting you too. First, it’s the last big primary Election Day this year, and while the Polls & Politics are flying fast, what the mainstream media thinks is important really isn’t - at least, not how they’re covering it. What is important? Trump’s failures in the Middle East, and with other nations, as well as the costs of war, and the failing U.S. economy. Meanwhile, the War Over Democracy continues, as does the War In The Courts. We’ve also got Media Matters, TV & Music news, and Sports news too. Plus, our friends Jo Carducci AKA JoJo From Jerz is back in the bar tonight! Read up, get informed, & we’ll see you here!

First Round - Primary Concerns

One More Big Primary Day

Polls & Politics

Harping & Misdirection

Second Round - Donald's Failed Foreign Affairs

Trump’s Iran Quagmire

The Costs Of War

Other Foreign Affairs

Third Round - Trump's Failed Administration

Republicans’ Failed Economy

Regime From Hell

Immigration Wars

Fourth Round - More News To Drink About

War Over Democracy

War In The Courts

Climate Crisis Continues

Miscellaneous But Important

Fifth Round - Media, Entertainment, & More

Media Matters

TV, Music, & More

Sports Entertainment

Today’s Special Guest

Jo Carducci, AKA Jo From Jerz, political commentator, firebrand, burgeoning media mogul, and friend of ours comes back to the bar tonight! We’ll talk about her prolific Substack “Are you f’ng kidding me?”, her primary podcast “Sane(ish) with Jo Carducci” & her other show with our friend BrooklynDad_Defiant! “The JoJo & BDD Show,” as well as her growing media group The Siren Network. We’ll probably talk about her latest Substack post too, “Who the Fu** Is Natalie Harp?” which is pretty spot on too. We’ll also draw a few rounds from today’s News On Tap. Join us tonight!

Join us today, on any of our radio affiliates, or subscribe and listen ad-free anytime!

DOTD For Tuesday, August 18, 2026

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 17:15:05 GMT

Today’s DOTD - Drink Of The Day - is a Velvet Revolver cocktail inspired by National Pinot Noir Day.

Origin of National Pinot Noir Day

Like many internet “holidays” today, there’s no defined person or group that officially began National Pinot Noir Day, though it began to catch on in the early-to-mid 2000s. That’s also when the movie Sideways came out, in 2004. However, the holiday is celebrated annually on August 18, while the movie Sideways wasn’t released until October of that year, so it’s unlikely the movie was the spur for the holiday. Still, the Alexander Payne movie, which starred Paul Giamatti, Virginia Madsen, Thomas Haden Church, & Sandra Oh, lifted up Pinot Noir as a better wine, while denouncing other kinds of wines like Merlot, and is often attributed with opening up wine culture to more Americans in the mid 2000s.

History of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir wine gets its name from the grape species from which it’s made, & is derived from the French words meaning ‘pine’ and ‘black.’ Records of Pinot Noir grapes, and their consumption as wine have been found in the region of Burgundy, France as far back as the First Century CE. Today, while the grape species can be found all over the world, its roots in French history are an important part of the history of Europe and the culture of wine.

When invading Romans arrived in Gaul they were impressed by the rich quality, texture, and unique flavors made from the wine that tasted of ripe red fruit, cherries, toast, and spices. The Pinot Noir grape, native to the Burgundy region of France, became a coveted item to the Romans for more than 300 years for just that reason. When the Romans established vineyards and began to farm the grape commercially, Pinot Noir wine quickly became the wine of choice among the nobility, and was soon the grape of choice grown by the Catholic Church.

The favored grape species and wine, Pinot Noir, became a mainstay wine for the Catholic Church for centuries to come. Pinot Noir vineyards owned by the Catholic Church remained under the control of the Catholic Church, in France, until the French Revolution in 1789, which brought an end to the aristocratic-only access to the wine. Since then, the grape has been exported far and wide, however, it is an extremely difficult grape to cultivate successfully. Climate & weather conditions have to be perfect, and while there is a population of Pinot Noir grapes grown on every continent in the world, the French variant seems to attract the most prestige and admiration, though since the early 2000s, California-grown Pinot has also gained great favor.

National Pinot Noir Day Hero

André Tchelistcheff

Known as the ‘Dean of American Winemaking,’ André Tchelistcheff (1901–1994) was a Russian-born oenologist (an expert in the study of wine & winemaking) who profoundly influenced California’s wine industry. His expertise in viticulture and winemaking techniques, particularly with varietals like Pinot Noir, helped establish California as a premier wine region and brought a new level of sophistication to American wines.

National Pinot Noir Day FAQs

How popular is Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir consistently ranks among the top ten most popular red wines globally, celebrated for its versatility and food-friendliness. Its delicate flavor profile appeals to a broad range of palates.

Where is Pinot Noir primarily grown?

Pinot Noir’s ancestral home is Burgundy, France, where it produces some of the world’s most expensive wines. However, it thrives in cooler climates globally, including Oregon, California (Sonoma Coast), New Zealand, and Germany.

What makes Pinot Noir unique among red wines?

Pinot Noir is unique due to its thin skin, which contributes to its lighter color, lower tannin, and delicate, nuanced flavors of red fruit, earth, and spice. It’s often described as the ‘heartbreak grape’ because it’s notoriously difficult to grow.

National Pinot Noir Day Activities

Have a glass of Pinot Noir

Pour yourself a healthy glass, this is the way to start. Sit back, savor and relax.

Host a wine tasting

A great way to have friends over, we suggest that each person brings a different bottle of their favorite wine, and that way, you can “taste” all night long. Pinot Noir pairs well with grilled salmon or tuna.

Give a bottle as a gift

Remind someone special that they are important to you. Let them celebrate today however they choose to, but make sure you buy a great bottle of Pinot Noir for them.

Five Things About Pinot Noir That You Might Not Know

There are many variants

Today, over 40 variants of Pinot Noir exist, globally.

One Pope wouldn’t return home to Italy without it

Pope Urban V refused to return to Rome in the Middle Ages, where you just couldn’t get the wine of the same quality as that found in Burgundy.

It can’t take the heat

Pinot Noir grows comfortably in cooler climates — the grape is “overcooked” when its thin skin is exposed to too much heat and sun.

France grows the most

Throughout the entire world, France has the most hectares of Pinot Noir Vineyards — 29,738 hectares.

It’s known as the “heartbreak grape”

Yes, it has been popularly referred to as such, but not for the reason that you may think. Sure many people have turned to a good pinot during a breakup, but it’s actually because of how difficult it is to harvest a successful crop, leaving many vintners heartbroken because of a failed yield.

Reasons To Love National Pinot Noir Day

It’s a great reason to absorb antioxidants

Antioxidants are great for you, and Pinot Noir is jam-packed with them. A single glass has been proven to provide you with a much-needed supply of antioxidants.

It’s a chance to bring history & culture into people’s lives

Wine culture, like poetry, often seems strange and peculiar when looked at by outsiders. Today gives everyone a chance to enjoy a good bottle of wine, regardless of how astute they may be in the world of fine wine, as Pinot Noir is one of the most accessible wines. And as famed poet Robert Louis Stevenson wrote in his 1883 book The Silverado Squatters, which details his honeymoon experience in California’s Napa Valley, “Wine is bottled poetry.”

Pinot Noir can also be part of a great cocktail

As Pinot Noir is accessible, as a wine, it mixes well with other types of spirits, like in today’s Drink Of The Day, a Velvet Revolver cocktail.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’re going to need for this drink:

The Politics Bar After Hours - Don't Be An A-Hole

ThePoliticsBar — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 00:02:14 GMT

It’s another After Hours with And we’re talking a LOT about entertainment. From the new DC show ‘Lanterns,’ to Disney’s flood of announcements at D23, including the new Avengers movie, and more - we’re talking about about entertainment tonight - & about villains. Grab one more round with us!

Communications Breakdown

ThePoliticsBar — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 23:30:13 GMT

It was a busy political news weekend, so today’s “News On Tap” is swirling with lies, corruption, & fumbled opportunities from Trump's Middle East mess, through his regime of corruption, & even into Democratic elected leaders. Thankfully, we’ve got Brooklyn Dad Defiant to help us draw clarity from the confusion. Grab a drink & join us now!

News On Tap For Monday, August 17, 2026

ThePoliticsBar — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 19:01:23 GMT

Today’s “News On Tap” is swirling with lies, corruption, & fumbled opportunities from some in Democratic leadership. We’ve got the news stories here to help draw clarity from that confusion. We start today with Trump’s failed Iran war & the Cost Of Trump’s Lies During Wartime. We’ve also got an update on Trump’s other Middle East Messes, & his new loss in Southeast Asia too. Plus, Republican Economics has Failed, while Trump’s Corruption Land just keeps growing. Meanwhile, there’s another se of Primary Elections Tomorrow, & frustratingly some Democratic Leaders Are Still Making Own Goals. Also, a sad goodbye to an actress most of America felt they knew, as superheroes dominate the entertainment space - except for sports, where real heroes sometimes fail. And our friend Majid Padellan AKA Brookyln Dad Defiant will stop by for another rind of Monday’s With Majid! Read up, get informed, and we’ll see you here tonight.

First Round - Trump's Many Foreign Failures

The Costs Of Lies During Wartime

Trump’s Middle East Mess Continues

Trump’s Losing Southeast Asia Too

Other Foreign Affairs

Second Round - A Corrupt & Failing Regime

Republican Economics Has Failed

Corruption Land

Immigration Wars

Third Round - Elections, Polls, & Politics

Another Primary Day Tomorrow

Poll Positions

Other Politics Of Note

Fourth Round - More News To Drink About

War Over Democracy

Miscellaneous But Important

Fifth Round - Media, Entertainment & More

Rest In Peace

Movies & More

Sports Entertainment

Bar Regular For Tonight

Brooklyn Dad Defiant, AKA Majid Padellan, is an author, activist, blogger, and host / co-host of TWO online shows – ‘The Defiant Weekly’ on Wednesdays, and ‘The JoJo & BDD Show’ with Jo Carducci on Thursdays. Tonight, we’ll recap the weekend, get his take on everything announced at D23, talk about the latest political news, and this week’s primary elections. We’ll also draw a few more rounds from the News On Tap. Grab a drink & join us tonight!

Join us today, on any of our radio affiliates, or subscribe and listen ad-free anytime!

DOTD For Monday, August 17, 2026

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 17:15:39 GMT

Today’s DOTD - Drink Of The Day - is a Mae West Cocktail inspired by legendary 1930’s Hollywood screen actress Mae West, who was born on this date in 1893.

Who Was Mae West?

Mae West 1893-1980

Mae West hit her Hollywood stride in her late 30s when she might have been considered in her “advanced years” for playing sexy harlots, but her persona and physical beauty overcame any doubt. The blunt sexuality of her films aroused the wrath and moral indignation of several groups, but this sexuality is what she’s remembered for today.

Mae West’s Early Life

Born Mary Jane West on August 17, 1893, in Brooklyn, New York, to Matilda and John West, family members called her Mae (spelled May at the time) from an early age. Her mother Matilda, also known as “Tillie,” was a German immigrant & aspiring actress. But Tillie’s parents’ disapproval in her career choices brought her dreams down to a more realistic profession as a garment worker - at first. Later, Tillie clandestinely abandoned her seamstress work for less respectable & far more glamorous work as a fashion model, and she never totally gave up the prospect of having some career in show business.

West’s father was a prizefighter known around the Brooklyn area as “Battlin’ Jack” West, known not so much for this success in the ring as for his reputation for street brawling. When he wasn’t fighting in authorized boxing matches, he was fighting in underground street fights or exhibiting his boxing prowess in pick up fights at Coney Island Amusement Park. Later, after he met Tillie, he worked as a “special policeman” (most likely as muscle for local business and crime bosses), and then later as a private detective.

Mae was the oldest of three children, but she was her mother’s favorite from the beginning. With Mae, Tillie’s childrearing was out of step with more the traditional Victorian methods of “children should be seen and not heard.” Instead, she preferred to humor and coax Mae, rather than harshly discipline her. Mae quickly obliged with precocious and, at times, obstinate behavior.

Mae started to show signs of talent at the age of 3, mimicking family members and friends, much to the delight of her father and mother. While she was too young to understand the art of impersonation, she learned quickly about the power of commanding an audience. Tillie soon took Mae to plays and vaudeville performances where she was enthralled with the make-believe world of characters, dance, and musical acts. Throughout West’s life, she would reminisce about the many legendary performers she saw in her youth, but one artist always stood out for her: African American entertainer Bert Williams, whom she credits as her earliest influence. It was from Williams’ performances that she learned the art of innuendo and double entendre, which he used in his act to mask his satire on race relations.

Mae made her first stage appearance at the age of 5 at a church social. While her home performances made her father proud, he wasn’t too keen on her performing for the public. Tillie blithely ignored his concerns and enrolled her in dance school at the age of 7. Soon she was appearing at amateur night at the local burlesque theaters under the stage name “Baby May.” After winning First Place and a $10 prize, her father became an ardent supporter, dragging her costume case to performances and sitting in the audience as her No. 1 fan.

Mae West’s Professional Vaudeville Career

In 1907, 14-year-old Mae began performing professionally in Vaudeville in the Hal Claredon Stock Company. Her mother made all her costumes, drilled her on rehearsals, and managed her bookings and contracts. Tillie was finally in show business, albeit as her daughter’s manager. Mae’s act was a subtle spoof on Victorian innocence and sentimentality. She portrayed a young girl dressed in a pink and green satin dress, a large white hat and pink satin ribbons. But she impersonated adult Vaudeville and burlesque performers, and danced and sang popular songs inflecting sexual overtones.

West spent the next few years on the vaudeville circuit with William Hogan, a small time performer and family friend. Mae played Hogan’s young girlfriend in a takeoff of a Tom Sawyer theme. But it’s likely that the strong-willed West had a hand in revising her soft spoken Becky Thatcher character into a more assertive and spunky foil for Hogan. When work was slow, which it often was for many performers in Vaudeville, she would go on the burlesque circuit playing before a predominantly male working-class audience. Social conventions did not allow such a young girl to be even present in such surroundings, let alone performing, but Mae West thrived and honed her performance skills.

Sometime between 1909 and 1910, Mae West met Frank Wallace, an up-and-coming vaudeville song-and-dance man. The story goes that Wallace was introduced to West by her mother, Tillie, who saw an opportunity to have her team up with a performer who was going places. After a few weeks of intense rehearsal, they formed an act and went out on the burlesque circuit. The tour went deep into the Midwest, far from the protective supervision of West’s mother. According to her biographers, Wallace proposed marriage to her several times, but she refused, instead having affairs with several other male cast members. She was counseled by an older cast member, Etta Wood, about her “wicked ways” and stressed that marriage would offer her protection against being alone and pregnant.

From this, West seemed to have a change of heart and on April 11, 1911, she and Frank Wallace were married by a justice of the peace in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Only 17, she lied about her age on her marriage certificate (18 was the legal age for marriage in Wisconsin at the time) and both newlyweds promised to keep the marriage a secret from the public and her parents. The union remained a secret until 1935, when West was well into her movie career and a publicity staff person found the marriage certificate in some old papers. For many years, Mae claimed she and Wallace had never lived as husband and wife, and in fact, she broke up the act soon after they arrived back in New York in the summer of 1911.

Later that year, West auditioned for and got a part in her first Broadway show, A La Broadway, a comedy review. The show folded after only eight performances, but West was a hit. In the audience on opening night were two successful Broadway impresarios, Lee and J.J. Shubert, and they cast her in the production of Vera Violetta, also featuring Al Jolson. She was with the show only a short time due to conflicts with the show’s female star, Gaby Deslys, but the experience paid off. She continued to perform in Vaudeville and off-Broadway in New York. It was during this time that she met Guido Deiro, another Vaudeville headliner. A passionate relationship resulted, and the two tried to be together as much as possible, often arranging for joint bookings. They both expressed their love, lust, and jealously openly, and were known for their outward displays of love, as well as their raging arguments.

For a short time, the couple contemplated marriage, and Deiro even asked West’s parents for her hand in marriage (they still didn’t know about her earlier marriage to Frank Wallace, of which she finally obtained a divorce in 1920). Mae’s mother Tillie strongly refused, reminding her daughter of the pitfalls of married couples in show business. West complied with her mother’s wishes, but continued to see Deiro, while her mother continued to undermine their relationship. Finally, Tillie directly expressed disapproval in Deiro, telling West that he wasn’t good enough for her. Reluctantly, she complied, and over a brief period of time ended the relationship with Deiro.

West got her big professional break in 1918 in the Shubert Brothers revue Sometime, playing opposite Ed Wynn. Her character, Mayme, danced the shimmy, a brazen dance move that involved shaking the shoulders back and forth and pushing the chest out. As more parts came her way, West began to shape her characters, often rewriting dialogue or character descriptions to better suit her persona. She eventually began writing her own plays, initially using the pen name Jane Mast.

Mae West’s Playwriting and Controversy

In 1926, West got her first starring role in a Broadway play entitled Sex, which she wrote, produced, and directed. Though the play was a hit at the box office, the “more respectable” Broadway critics panned it for its explicit sexual content. The production also did not go over well with city officials, who raided the show and arrested West along with much of the cast. She was prosecuted on morals charges and on April 19, 1927, sentenced to 10 days in jail on Welfare Island (now known as Roosevelt Island) in New York. The incarceration was cordial, as West reportedly dined with the warden and his wife on a few occasions. She served eight days, with two off for good behavior. The media attention of the entire affair did nothing but enhance her career.

Undaunted by any impression of impropriety, West wrote and directed her next play, Drag, which dealt with homosexuality. The play did well in Connecticut and was a smash hit in Paterson, New Jersey. But when West announced the play would open on Broadway, the Society for the Prevention of Vice intervened and vowed to ban it. The Society was a state-chartered organization, originally started by supporters of the YMCA in 1873. The group was dedicated to supervising the morality of the public, and monitoring compliance with state laws. West decided not to tempt fate again, and kept the play out of New York.

West continued to write plays over the next several years, including The Wicked Age, Pleasure Man, and The Constant Sinner. In some, she was given credit as writer and/or producer, but did not play a part. The plays dealt with what today would be called “adult subject matter” with tryst plots and sexual innuendos. Her productions were not easy ones to bring to the stage for a myriad of reasons, primarily the constant changes needed to bring the dialogue and plot lines more in line with the moral codes of the day. On several occasions the actors learned two scripts, one for the general audience and a “more refined” version for the times when they were tipped off that vice agents might be in the audience. Of course, all this only brought more publicity to her productions, and resulted in packed performances.

By 1932, Hollywood began to take notice of West’s performances and talent. That year, she was offered a motion picture contract by Paramount Pictures. At 38 years old, she might have been considered in her “advanced years” for playing sexy harlots, but her persona and physical beauty seemed to overcome any doubt. The first film she appeared in was Night after Night, starring George Raft. At first, she balked at her small role, but was appeased when allowed to rewrite her scenes in order to conform more to her performance style.

In the 1933 film She Done Him Wrong, West was able to bring her “Diamond Lil” character to the silver screen in her first starring film role. The “Lil” character was renamed “Lady Lou,” and contained the famous West line, “Why don’t you come up and see me?” The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture, and also starred new comer Cary Grant in one of his first major roles. The film did tremendously well at the box office, and is attributed to saving Paramount Pictures from bankruptcy. In her next movie, I’m No Angel, she was again paired with Grant. This film, too, was a financial blockbuster giving West the honor of being the eighth-largest box office draw in the United States. By 1935, West was the second-highest paid person in the United States, behind publisher William Randolph Hearst.

However, the blunt sexuality and steamy settings of her films aroused the wrath and moral indignation of several groups. One of these was the Motion Picture Production Code, also known as the Hays Code for its creator, William H. Hays. The organization had the power to pre-approve films’ productions and change scripts. On July 1, 1934, the organization began to seriously and meticulously enforce the code on West’s screenplays, and heavily edited them. West responded in her typical fashion by increasing the number of innuendos and double entendres, fully expecting to confuse the censors, which she did for the most part.

In 1936, West starred in the film Klondike Annie, which concerned itself with religion and hypocrisy. Hearst disagreed so vehemently with the film’s context, and West’s portrayal of a Salvation Army worker, that he personally forbade any stories or advertisements of the film to be published in any of his publications. The film did well at the box office anyway, and is considered the high-point of Mae West’s film career.

As the decade wound down, West’s film career seemed to wane somewhat. The few other films she did for Paramount — Go West, Young Man and Everyday’s a Holiday — did not do well at the box office, and she found censorship was severely limiting her creativity. On December 12, 1937, she appeared as herself on ventriloquist Edgar Bergen’s radio show The Chase and Sanborn Hour in two comedy sketches. The dialogue between West and the show’s hosts, Bergen and his dummy Charlie McCarthy, was her usual brand of wit and risqué humor. But days after the broadcast, NBC received letters calling the show “immoral” and “obscene.” Moral groups went after sponsor Chase and Sanborn Coffee Company for allowing such “impurity” on their show. Even the FCC weighed in, calling the broadcast “vulgar and indecent” and far below the minimum standard for broadcast programs. NBC personally blamed West for the debacle, and banned her from appearing on any of their other broadcasts.

A Handful Of Famous Mae West Quotes

It is better to be looked over than overlooked.
Between two evils, I always pick the one I never tried before.
There are no good girls gone wrong—just bad girls found out.
“Good sex is like good bridge. If you don't have a good partner, you'd better have a good hand.”
“When I'm good, I'm very good, but when I'm bad, I'm better. ”
“Good girls go to heaven, bad girls go everywhere.”
“Those who are easily shocked should be shocked more often.”
“I never said it would be easy, I only said it would be worth it.”

In 1939, Universal Pictures approached West to star in a film opposite comedian W.C. Fields. The studio wanted to duplicate the success they had with another film, Destry Rides Again, a Western morality tale starring Marlene Dietrich and James Stewart. West, looking for a vehicle to make a comeback in films, accepted the part, demanding creative control over the film. Using the same Western genre, My Little Chickedee‘s screenplay was written by West. Despite tension on the set between West and Fields (she was a teetotaler and he drank), the film was a box-office success, out-grossing Fields’ previous two films.

By 1943, West was 50 years old and considering retiring from films to concentrate on her Broadway stage career. Columbia Pictures’ director Gregory Ratoff, a friend of hers, needed to have a successful film to avoid bankruptcy, and pleaded with West to help him avoid financial ruin. She agreed. But the film lacked her double-entendre lines and sly delivery, not to mention its weak plot and lack of a top-rated romantic lead for West to play off. The film opened to bad reviews and suffered at the box office. West would not return to films until 1970.

Late Career

In 1954, Mae West formed a nightclub act which revived some of her earlier stage work, featuring her in song-and-dance numbers and surrounded by musclemen fawning over her for attention. The show ran for three years and was a great success. With this victory, she felt it was a good time to retire. In 1959, West released her bestselling autobiography, Goodness Had Nothing To Do With It, recounting her life in show business. She made a few guest appearances on the 1960s television comedy/variety shows like The Red Skelton Show and some situation comedies like Mister Ed. She also recorded a few albums in different genres including rock ‘n’ roll and a Christmas album which, of course, was more parody and innuendo than religious celebration.

In the 1970s she appeared in her two last films, Gore Vidal’s Myra Breckenridge, in which she had a small part, and her own Sextette (1978). Though Myra Breckenridge was a box office and critical failure, it did find an audience on the cult film circuit and served to revitalize many of her other movies at film festivals. In 1976, West began work on her final film, Sextette. The picture was adapted from a script she wrote for the stage, but the production suffered from several problems including daily script revisions, creative disagreements, and West’s difficulty remembering her lines and following set direction. Yet, being the professional she was, she persevered and the film was completed. The critics were devastating in their reviews but, like Myra Breckenridge, the movie has endured as a cult-film classic.

Mae West’s Death

In August 1980, West had a severe fall while getting out of bed. She was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles, California, where tests confirmed she had suffered a stroke. The rehabilitation was complicated, with a diabetic reaction to the formula in her feeding tube. On September 18, 1980, she suffered a second stroke that left much of her right side paralyzed. She then developed pneumonia. Her condition showed some signs of stabilizing, but the overall prognosis was good, and she was released to her home for her convalescence. On November 22, 1980, West died at the age of 88. She was entombed in Brooklyn, New York.

Clearly, Mae West was ahead of her time in many ways. Yet today’s Drink Of The Day still has a classic style with a bit of a kick, the aptly named Mae West Cocktail.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’re going to need for this drink:

The Politics Bar After Hours - Sausage Making

ThePoliticsBar — Sat, 15 Aug 2026 00:03:23 GMT

It’s another round of After Hours with Karen & Anita from Tru Blu Politics podcast (and on Patreon too)! Tonight, we talk a little more about those Democratic primaries, data centers, how you can stay better informed (with the News On Tap), & more about milk bottles & how the political sausage is made. Grab one more drink & join us now.

Milk Bottles

ThePoliticsBar — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 23:30:52 GMT

It’s Friday night & today’s “News On Tap” is full of stories about Trump & Republicans betraying our troops, & their corruption too. But there’s been some good news this week too! And our friends Karen & Anita from Tru Blu Politics podcast (and on Patreon too) will be here to talk about all of it. Grab a drink & join us!

News On Tap For Friday, August 14, 2026

ThePoliticsBar — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 19:04:04 GMT

Today’s “News On Tap” is full of Trump & Republican halfascism, betrayal, & corruption - but there’s some good news too! We’ve got news on Trump & Hegseth Betraying Our Military, and Trump’s Continuing Middle East Mess. We’ve also get news on Republicans’ Failed Economy, Trump’s Weaponized Govt., and a pile of stories in Corruption Land today. There’s also news in our Justice & Injustice section, and some good news in our Polls & Politics section. We’ve also got Media Matters, Movie & TV news, & Sports news too. Plus, Karen & Anita of The Tru Blu Politics podcast are back tonight to go over today’s news & recap this crazy week of news. Read up, get informed, and we’ll see you here tonight!

First Round - Betraying Our Military

Second Round - Trump's Failing Foreign Affairs

Donald’s Middle East Mess

Other Foreign Affairs

Third Round - Trump's Failed Regime

Republicans’ Failed Economy

Immigration Wars

Trump’s Weaponized Govt.

Corruption Land

Fourth Round - More News To Drink About

Justice & Injustice

Polls & Politics

Miscellaneous But Important

Fifth Round - Media, Entertainment. & More

Media Matters

Movies & TV News

Sports Entertainment

Your Bar Regulars Tonight

Our friends Karen from Chicago, & Anita From San Antonio, co-hosts of Tru Blu Politics (and on Patreon too) are back in the bar tonight and as usual, there’s a lot to talk about. From Food Truck Trump’s Great Escape, to more Democratic primary election wins, and Democratic unity, to Trump & Kegbreath’s betrayal of the troops, we’ll talk about all that and more - & we’ll talk about The Tru Blu Politics daily podcast at Resistance Journal too. Grab a drink & join us tonight!

Join us today, on any of our radio affiliates, or subscribe and listen ad-free anytime!

DOTD For Friday, August 14, 2026

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 17:15:31 GMT

Today’s DOTD - Drink Of The Day - is a Chinese Whisper Cocktail inspired by The Hungry Ghost Festival.

Honoring dead ancestors is a tradition found across cultures—think Mexico’s Día de los Muertos or Japan’s Obon festival. But few observances are as vivid as the Hungry Ghost Festival, which originated in China but has spread widely to Chinese-speaking communities across much of Asia and the wider global Chinese diaspora.

Floating lanterns guide the way for restive spirits to return to earth at night during the celebration of the Hungry Ghost Festival in Guilin, China, on Aug. 16, 2016. Courtesy of Visual China Group/Getty Images

During the Hungry Ghost Festival, it’s believed that the gates of the underworld swing open for a month, letting restless spirits wander among the living. Families and communities pull out the stops to welcome, feed, and comfort the spirits. Equal parts reverent and eerie, the festival offers a striking glimpse into how Taoist and Buddhist communities throughout Asia view death, the afterlife, and how best to honor and commemorate the departed.

What Is The Hungry Ghost Festival?

The Hungry Ghost Festival is one of Asia’s most dramatic ways of honoring the dead. For those who celebrate, it’s a time when hungry—and sometimes angry—spirits return to the earthly realm in search of solace. To appease them, the living perform rituals meant to show respect and provide comfort. People leave offerings of food and incense and burnt paper effigies of money, cars, TVs and other valuables. Neighborhoods come alive with a wide range of performances and events that turn remembrance into a shared spectacle.

The festival peaks on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, usually falling in August or September on the western calendar. But the entire seventh lunar month—often called “Ghost Month”— is believed to be a time when spirits roam freely, with rituals and gatherings happening all month.

Widely celebrated in China and other Chinese-speaking countries like Singapore and Taiwan, the Hungry Ghost Festival is also observed in Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia, where there are significant Chinese populations. Related festivals happen in Vietnam—where it’s known as the Vu Lan festival—and Thailand, where it is called Phi Ta Khon and held earlier in the year. The tradition has also traveled around the world through the Chinese diaspora. In San Francisco for example, the Chinese Culture Center notes that such festivals once offered “a sense of peace” to early immigrants “grappling with grief, generational traumas and the ache of familial separation” amid migrations, wrongful deaths and exclusions.

Where Did The Hungry Ghost Festival Originate?

The festival has roots in China, in both Taoism and Buddhism—with each faith offering its own interpretation—often mixed with Chinese folklore. Taoist beliefs center on appeasing spirits and honoring the three deities said to govern human fate: the rulers of heaven, earth and water. During Ghost Month, Taoist priests perform rituals and offer food to the ghosts, while worshippers flock to temples to repent and pray for happiness and freedom from misfortune.

Buddhist tradition emphasizes filial piety—the duty to honor and care for elders and ancestors. A well-known Buddhist legend explains the origin of the holiday, from the Buddhist perspective. The legend tells of a monk named Mu Lian, who ventured into the underworld to save his suffering mother, who had been sent to hell for consuming meat as a vegetarian. Only through prayers and food offerings was he able to help ease her torment. The story helped enshrine the practice of feeding hungry ghosts as an act of compassion and devotion.

How To Honor & Celebrate The Hungry Ghost Festival

To honor the Hungry Ghosts, people set up food feasts on outdoor altars, light incense, float water lanterns, and burn spirit money - a type of ceremonial paper burned in traditional Chinese and East Asian spiritual practices to send wealth and material goods to deceased ancestors & deities in the afterlife. It’s also recommended to follow protective taboos to respect wandering spirits. Those taboos include refraining from starting major life events like moving houses, changing jobs, or marrying. It’s also recommended not to swim in deep water, or step on food offerings left on the ground.

Thankfully, the spirits say nothing about refraining from a good cocktail. So we’re going to make today’s Drink Of The Day, a Chinese Whisper Cocktail, to celebrate.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’re going to need for this drink:

Dr. Annie Andrews Drops By The Politics Bar

ThePoliticsBar — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 13:09:44 GMT

Almost everyone in the U.S., and many around the world, can see that our nation is ill. Thankfully, one of the people who wants to help heal the United States is Dr. Annie Andrews, an experienced doctor, mom, and proud South Carolinian. She stopped by the bar t his week to talk with us about her prescriptions to heal America, & her work to try to win the open U.S. Senate seat in South Carolina. Grab a drink & listen in - and if you want to know more about her or donate, you can go to her campaign website at drannieandrews.com

Great Minds Think Alike

ThePoliticsBar — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 23:30:31 GMT

Unlike how Trump & Hegseth are treating our service members, we’ve made sure today’s “News On Tap” is fresh & fully stocked. We’ll talk about Trump & Hegseth’s abuse of our veterans, more on Food Truck Trump, health care & more with Dr. Annie Andrews & John Fugelsang tonight. Grab a drink & join us!

News On Tap For Thursday, August 13, 2026

ThePoliticsBar — Thu, 13 Aug 2026 18:47:43 GMT

Unlike how Trump & Hegseth treat our service members, we’ve made sure today’s “News On Tap” is fresh & fully stocked. We’ve got your news on Trump’s Betrayal Of The Troops, his ongoing Iran quagmire, & some of his Other Governing Failures. We’ve also got more on the Plane Crazy #FoodTruckTrump story, how Trump’s regime keeps Weaponizing The Govt., and even more betrayal in Corruption Land. Plus, we’ve got Media Matters, Movie TV & Music news, & Sports news too. Plus, we’re welcoming Dr. Annie Andrews to the bar, & our friend John Fugelsang is back. Read up, get informed, and we’ll see you here at the bar tonight!

First Round - Trump’s Betrayal Of The Troops

Second Round - Trump's Other Foreign Failures

Donald’s Iran War Quagmire

Other Foreign Affairs

Third Round - Trump's Failed Regime

Plane Crazy

Other Governing Failures

Weaponizing The Govt.

Corruption Land

Fourth Round - More News To Drink About

Aborting The Right’s Lies

Miscellaneous But Important

Fifth Round - Media, Entertainment, & More

Media Matters

Movies, TV, Music, & More

Sports Entertainment

Tonight’s Special Guest

Dr. Annie Andrews is a mom, an experienced pediatrician - and an experienced campaigner, having run for office before. For nearly two decades, Dr. Andrews has diagnosed patients, and diagnosed our increasingly complicated health care & health insurance systems, and today she agrees with most Americans - the systems we’ve got currently don’t work for most Americans anymore. So instead of just complaining, she’s done what doctors do: Checked the symptoms, researched what can be done to make things work efficiently & effectively, & now she wants to take her prescriptions to Congress to help our government work better for South Carolinians, & all Americans. We’ll talk with her tonight about what those prescriptions for change are, what her experiences have taught her, and what she’s been hearing from South Carolinians about what they need and want in a U.S. Senator. If you want more info about her and what she’s fighting for, or to donate, go to drannieandrews.com

Tonight’s Bar Regular:

John Fugelsang, our friend, broadcaster, podcaster, Substacker, comedian, author of the bestselling book “Separation of Church and Hate” , & host of his own show on SiriusXM is back tonight to cover all the craziness in the news! He’s also got a NEW BOOK coming soon, “Fake Christians: A Biblically Correct Guide to Breaking the Grip of Holy Hypocrites, Gospel Grifters, and Theocratic Thugs” that you can pre-order HERE. We’ll talk about John’s latest Substack post, #FoodTruckTrump, how Democrats are uniting as Republicans flounder, & more. Join us tonight!

Join us today, on any of our radio affiliates, or subscribe and listen ad-free anytime!

DOTD For Thursday, August 13, 2026

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 17:15:05 GMT

Today’s DOTD - Drink Of The Day - is a Luau Cocktail inspired by birthday of legendary Hawaiian musician & entertainer, Don Ho. As we say in Hawaii,
”Me Ke Aloha Pumehana” - a Hawaiian phrase that translates to “with warm aloha” or “with warm regards.”

Don Ho was Hawaii’s Ambassador of Aloha to the world. A favorite son of Hawaii, he brought people together with his charismatic personality, Hawaiian values, and music. Don Ho is Hawaii’s icon and a personification of the Aloha Spirit.

He was big time. But to Don, it “ain’t no big thing.”

Whether a lifelong friend, an aspiring performer looking for a break, a grandmother from Peoria, or a member of the military, you mattered to Don Ho. In a one-on-one encounter or an appearance before hundreds on his stage, he made you feel special in his genuine “local boy” style.

There was so much more to Don Ho than “Tiny Bubbles” and “Pearly Shells.”

Career milestones:

Five decades (1960-2007) of entertaining audiences, starting with a homegrown band at his parents’ club Honey’s in Kaneohe, to headlining Waikiki’s most popular and longest running show.
Guest appearances on every major TV talk and variety show during that time, including the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, Laugh-In, The Andy Williams Show, The Johnny Cash Show, Kraft Music Hall (seven appearances), Grand Ole Opry, and more.
Star of his own ABC-TV show (1976-77), many TV specials, and numerous Las Vegas headlining appearances.
Over 15 best-selling recordings, featuring songs by local composers such as Kui Lee (”I’ll Remember You,” and “Days of My Youth”).
Provided a showcase for young, local Hawaiian talent in his shows and inspired them to reach for greatness.

That’s the legacy of Don Ho, whose indelible memories and contributions during his lifetime provide an inspired foundation for the future.

Don’s music is the cornerstone on which he built his extraordinary entertainment career and that he used so effectively to communicate with people on all levels. It is the language through which he spoke from his heart to the world.

And, as he expressed in song, “If I had to do it all over again, every scene and every dream I’d relive. For this masquerading soul has played out every role. And I’d do it all over again.’

Don Ho had ten kids, and several of them followed in his footsteps in the music and entertainment industry, though none achieved his specific level of lifelong, global fame. throughout his years performing & recording, he actively raised his kids in the family business, frequently bringing them onstage, backstage, or involving them in his production management.

From left to right Jackie Lei a.k.a. “Tiny Bubbles”, Hoku and Haumea Ho carry on the Ho Show Tradition

His most publicly recognized musical successor, Hōkū Ho performed in her father’s Waikiki shows during her youth. In 2000, she launched a successful mainstream pop music career, charting nationally with hits like “Another Dumb Blonde” (from Snow Day) and “Perfect Day” (the theme song for Legally Blonde).

Kea Ho, his eighth child, grew up singing and dancing on stage with her father. She carried on the entertainment tradition by pursuing a multi-faceted career as an actress, singer, model, and designer.

Don Ho’s eldest son, Donald “Donnie” Ho Jr., chose to carry on the family tradition on the technical side of showbiz. He spent nearly his entire career working as a vital light and sound technician for Don Ho Enterprises and the Magic of Polynesia show, dedicating his life to making his father and other local acts look and sound great on stage.

Whether you’re a Hawaii kamaaina (oldtimer) or malihini (newcomer), may you find that special connection with the Islands that was the essence of Don Ho, with today’s Drink Of The Day, a Luau Cocktail.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’re going to need for this drink:

It's A GTFO Election

ThePoliticsBar — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 23:30:29 GMT

Today's 'News On Tap' is filled to the brim with election news, because it’s an election recap Wednesday! Bob Cesca beams back to our bar from the Star Trek convention in Las Vegas to talk about the election returns, #FoodTruckTrump, & more. Grab a drink and join us now!

News On Tap For Wednesday, August 12, 2026

ThePoliticsBar — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 19:05:18 GMT

Today’s “News On Tap” is full up with election news, #FoodTruckTrump news, and more. Plus, Bob Cesca is back tonight. Read up & get informed!

First Round - Election Returns

Wins And Losses

Poll Positions

Second Round - Trump's Failing Foreign Affairs

Trump’s Middle East Mess

Other Foreign Affairs

Third Round - Cowardice & Corruption

Coward In A Catering Truck

Corruption Land

Fourth Round - Trump's Failed Regime

Republicans’ Failed Economics

Administration From Hell

ICE Monsters & Immigration Wars

Fifth Round - More News To Drink About

The Court Of Injustice

War Over Democracy

Sixth Round - Media, Entertainment, & More

Media Matters

Movies, TV, & Music

Sports Entertainment