EVENT REPORT: PROJECT ETHOS "STARS ALIGNED" SOIREE SHINES WITH STELLAR ENTERTAINMENT, KILLER AFTERPARTY, AND EVEN TV STAR LARRY DAVID

On Leap Day 2008, "Stars Aligned" Event Merged Fashion, Music and Art at the Avalon in Hollywood; Eclectic Audience Included Star of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and Hundreds of Other Partiers for a Cause

by Don Rose

Project Ethos transformed the Avalon nightclub into a creative haven featuring a range of young, up and coming talent, and drew a packed house for the six hour event, which is now an annual tradition. Here are some of the event highlights:

Music - A range of mystical notes filled the Avalon Main Theatre space with melodic acts featuring Tyrone Wells, Meiko and Amber Rubarth. Tyrone was especially popular, it seemed; loved his medley of a range of hits that crossed many musical styles (and, come to think of it, who does medleys anymore? we miss 'em). Guests also imbibed cocktails at three full bars.

Fashion - The big fashion finale of the night started about 2 hours late, but that seems to be a standard thing with fashion shows, since their start times in LA seem to always run at least an hour behind (like clockwork, if you pardon the irony). I guess it is more dramatic that way, and when tonight's show finally began it was certainly worth the wait. A very sexy bellydancer came out first and gyrated seductively with others on stage behind her (see, I was so distracted I forget what the others were doing), followed by around 50+ celestial bodies covered in the divine creations of 8 excellent fashion designers. The nebula of fabrics, fashion and design were a fitting capper to the night's entertainment in the Main Theatre.

During the fashion show was when I spotted none other than Larry David, "Seinfeld" co-creator and star of HBO's hilarious "Curb Your Enthusiasm" - one of The LA Report's all time favorite TV programs. Although we can't confirm, from our vantage point it seemed Larry was on a date with an attractive young babe (as any single mensch worth hundreds of millions of dollars should be). Since the Avalon is a haven for young babes, and Larry is known to support worthy causes (which Project Ethos is), coming to this event was a perfect choice.

Art - We also enjoyed visiting the upper level (Spider Club) to see works by around a dozen artists, who created a wonderful array of color, imagery and form that stimulated all who came by. Very talented group indeed. The LA Report especially liked the color caricature of Prince Charles (granted, his facial features make him perhaps the easiest monarch ever to poke visual fun of), and the image of a reclining (or was it dying?) blue elephant on an American flag ("GOP RIP" might have been an apropos title).

Finally, there was the excellent Directors After Party at around 1am, where Project Ethos founders Heidi and Jason partied with VIP guests, press, designers, and other creative stars of the evening. This exclusive party featured DJ Johny Luv (www.myspace.com/djjohnyluv), free readings (from a seer of the future seated at a corner table), and delicious passed appetizers from Convivial Catering (our faves being the eel and avocado bites, Kobe burger sliders, tomato-and-cheese slices, and eggrolls). This after party was located inside Honey, the late night bistro that serves as an intimate "club within a club" for the Avalon.

All in all, The LA Report most enjoyed this Stars Aligned event. Since it is an annual affair, we recommend you attend next year. Keep it tuned here at The LA Report for future details. Special thanks to Jason at Project Ethos for his assistance.

For media who want more info on Project Ethos, please contact Jason@ProjectEthos.com. All other inquiries: contact Heidi@ProjectEthos.com. The LA Report recommends this annual event for next year, due to its multi-fun creativity and eclectic performance lineup.

FEB. 29: GALA FUNDRAISER TO LAUNCH CATHERINE BAUKNIGHT’S DOCUMENTARY, "HAWAII - A VOICE FOR SOVEREIGNTY"

*****
Award-winning photojournalist Catherine Bauknight’s stunning pilot documentary "Hawaii - A Voice for Sovereignty" will be celebrated with a gala, green-carpet event at Boulevard 3 in Hollywood, CA on Friday, February 29, 2008

"Hawaii - A Voice for Sovereignty," currently a 10-minute short, spotlights the struggle of indigenous Hawaiians to preserve their ancestral islands. The film documents the social, economic, and ecological issues that have developed in Hawaii since the takeover by the United States in 1893. In rare and moving interviews, native Hawaiians reveal their fears about the imminent loss of their culture and their land as overdevelopment threatens an ancient and environmentally sustainable way of life. Narration for the film will be supplied by the Hawaiian entertainer and humanitarian Al Harrington, star of the TV-show “Hawaii Five-O.”

Bauknight hopes to bring this film to the world stage by theatrical release, screenings at international film festivals, and television programming. "Hawaii-A Voice for Sovereignty" was selected from among 1,000 submissions to premiere at the Maui Film Festival in June 2007. It also screened at the Hana Film Festival in November 2007.

To promote these issues and raise money for the completion of a 90-minute full-length version of the documentary, the gala evening on Feb. 29 promises to be an exciting mix of live entertainment: a Hawaiian hula by Halau Keali’i O Nalani, a luau, a private screening of the documentary short, Hawaiian-themed food & drink, special celebrity attendees, and silent auction, featuring Hawaiian art. An exhibit of Catherine Bauknight’s photography entitled 20 yrs. of Rock-‘N-Roll: A Retrospect will also be on display.

“Civilizations are defined by their cultural traditions,” declares Bauknight. “I feel a sense of honor to aid these people in providing a voice for them to speak for themselves about their issues and culture.”

Bauknight’s exploration of cultural identities has its origins within her photojournalist background. A professional photographer for over two decades, Bauknight’s work has been featured in such distinguished publications as Rolling Stone, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Newsweek, USA Today, Time, and People Magazine. She was one of five international photographers who risked their lives to cover the Tiananmen Square massacre. Other notable photography projects include: “Ethiopia - Bad Water,” and “The Renaissance of the Catawba Indians.” Bauknight is a member of both the NPPA and WIPI, and was an adjunct professor of photography at Cal State University-Fullerton and California Polytechnic State University. Bauknight is the Vice President on the Board of Directors for the Visual Artists Guild, a contract photographer for Zuma Press, and resides in Pasadena, CA.

The fiscal sponsor for the film is the International Documentary Association (IDA), a non-profit organization supporting documentary filmmaking. Additional sponsors include Women in Photography International (http://www.womeninphotography.org/), Pasadena Weekly (http://www.pasadenaweekly.com/), and B.A.R. Entertainment (www.youtube.com/starmedia).

For information about the film, or to purchase tickets for the screening, please visit: www.catherinebauknight.com. For all media requests and credentials, or to schedule an interview with Catherine Bauknight, contact J.R. Savet at 805-405-0710; e-mail: jrsavet@gmail.com. You can also visit the sites below for more info.

Invitation: http://www.catherinebauknight.com
Event location: http://www.boulevard3.com/b3Gallery/
Entertainment: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zENrDhuw7hg&NR=1
Commentary: www.youtube.com/voiceforsovereignty

BUZZ FILM: "FLYING LESSONS" (COMING SOON)

The LA Report Buzz: Featured Film For February: Flying Lessons

Producers: Derek Magyar / Jenny Hinkey / Alan Loayza.
Director: Gideon Raff; Writer: Thomas J. Kuehl.
Casting Director: Steve Brooksbank; Casting Associate: Kamala Thomas.
Start Date: Mid April. Location: North Carolina.

Here is the basic STORY LINE: With her life at a crossroads, 28 year old SOPHIE CONWAY returns home to the small town she hasn't seen since high school, to the friends and lovers she left behind, to try and make sense of her tangled relationship with her mother.

New Buzz: Currently Derek Magyar is set to star, and negotiations for other lead females are rumored to be with some VERY big actresses.

To receive more information about Flying Lessons, contact Lisa Jammal of LJAM PR at 310.490.7220 or via email: lisa@ljampr.com.

2008 OSCARS & STEVE JOBS MACWORLD KEYNOTE IN 60 SECONDS (THANKS, MAHALO DAILY!)

Mahalo Daily with Veronica Belmont presents Steve Jobs' Apple Keynote in 60 Seconds. Also recommended: Mahalo's "OSCARS in Sixty Seconds".

Some things (especially Internet inventions) have a habit of becoming instant essentials. Such is the case with Mahalo's "X in Sixty Seconds" feature (for various X's), my new fave video thingamabob! What a timesaver. And, another benefit: easier to remember the key points, since those are all you see! Think of it as a highlighter pen for video. Of course, editing is crucial for this to work, and Mahalo's editing is nearly perfect. Even humor gets injected in the mix with the Apple keynote video. First we see Apple CEO Steve Jobs hitting the main points of his 90 minute keynote (key new stuff: 1 terabyte AirPort+harddrive combo, $499, can backup all your Macs wirelessly; software upgrades for iPhone and iPod Touch; new Apple TV with no computer required to use and can rent movies in HD; iTunes movie rentals: 3 to 4 bucks each, you get 30 days to start, then 24 hours to watch; new ultrathin MacBook Air laptop, fits in manila envelope). Then we're treated to 2 seconds of Randy Newman (sings "You've Got a Friend In Me" - yes, just those words). Finally, the icing on the cake: a few seconds appending adoring Apple adjectives adjacently. Oh, if only life could be condensed like this sometimes.

FEB. 25: DR. TATTOFF OFFERS TO CLEAN UP LA WITH OPERATION INK-OFF; FREE ONE-DAY SPECIAL EVENT TAKES PLACE IN BEVERLY HILLS

Bad tatts are everywhere. And, for one day only, Southern California’s leading tattoo removal chain, Dr. TATTOFF, has made it their mission to rid Angelenos of old body graffiti by offering free tattoo removal. For the first time ever, Los Angeles’s tattooed community will congregate in one place to remove their bad body art. This is not to be missed!

On February 25, 2008, anyone who shows up between the hours of 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Dr. TATTOFF’s Beverly Hills office, located at 8500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90211 will receive free treatment. Patients will be treated on a first come first served basis and can get up to six (6) inches treated.

The idea for OPERATION INK-OFF originated with Dr. TATTOFF Medical Director, Dr. Will Kirby. As one of the country’s foremost experts on tattoo removal and current star of E!’s Dr. 90210, Dr. Kirby has met many people who have tattoos they want removed, but who lack motivation to begin the removal process. “In my business, I am constantly meeting people who want to get their tattoos taken off but for one reason or another have not started. It’s a new year, and I thought what a great way to help people by cleaning up their old graffiti and giving them a fresh start.”

Dr. Kirby will personally be on-hand that day to meet and treat patients, along with Dr. TATTOFF nurse and former “Bachelor” winner, Sarah Brice. HER Energy Drink has also graciously agreed to donate drinks to attendees. Other confirmed celebrities include Dr. TATTOFF founder “My Fair Brady” star Christopher Knight, actor Jai Rodriguez, and “Bachelor” star actor Charlie O’Connell. Dr. TATTOFF is cleaning up Los Angeles, one canvas at a time…

Dr. TATTOFF has been featured on the front page of the Sunday NY Times, the front page of the LA Times, CNN, ABC World News Tonight, LA Ink, San Francisco Chronicle, Seattle Times, Miami Herald, Houston Chronicle, The Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Dr. 90210, My Fair Brady, Fox News, Maxim, Daily News, Chicago Tribune, Us Weekly, In Touch, Life & Style, LA Confidential, Angeleno, 944, TMZ.com, TMZ (television), Adam Carolla Show, OC Weekly, OC Metro, and more.

Dr. TATTOFF Laser Tattoo Removal. 8500 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90211. Phone 323-855-9404, fax 323-658-TATT. Re-think your ink! www.DrTATTOFF.com

FEB. 25: GEORGE HARRISON BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE IN HOLLYWOOD (2 EVENTS)

On February 25th, George Harrison would have been 65. To come together in a spirit of love, reflection and remembrance, Hollywood will be the site of two events. Beatle people of all ages will be gathering at 6pm at John Lennon's star on the Walk of Fame (since George doesn't have one -- yet), on Vine near the Capitol Records building (Capitol, of course, being the Beatles' label). Then, according to Les Perry (host of the Meet The Beatles show on KCSN fm), there will be another open-to-the-public party around 730pm to celebrate George, at the famous Pig and Whistle restaurant/bar, located on Hollywood Boulevard near Highland. (The photo below shows George in the Oval Office - a crop from a larger image depicting President Ford with George Harrison and Billy Preston. Date: December 13, 1974. Credit: White House Photograph, Courtesy Gerald R. Ford Library, taken by legendary photographer David Hume Kennerly.)


George Harrison, 1974, at the White House (Full resolution)
‎Source: http://www.fordlibrarymuseum.gov/avproj/whitehouse-years-01.asp

FEB. 25: SAMANTHA MOLLEN PERFORMS LIVE AT HOTEL CAFE

Here is your chance to check out SAMANTHA MOLLEN LIVE at the hip Hollywood hang, Hotel Café. A great way to spend the day after the Academy Awards. Also performing: Tracy Spuehler, Alicia Witt, and Gaby Moreno. Samantha will be with FULL BAND, featuring NEW SONGS.

Hotel Café, 1623 1/2 N Cahuenga Blvd., Los Angeles. Monday, February 25, 2008. 8:00 PM. $8 at the door. Tickets also available presale. Check out Samantha LIVE at nonstop riot studios, online at www.youtube.com/nonstopriot.

FEB. 23-25: SPA AND RESORT EXPO RETURNS TO LA CONVENTION CENTER

Exciting show floor features include:

New Product Showcases - See the latest products in aromatherapy, clinical skin care, dental care, eye care, laser therapy, mesotherapy, microderm abrasion, robes/bathware accessories, skin care, and spa equipment.

Spa Sanctuary - Brings the spa environment right onto the Show floor, providing a brief respite and the chance to enjoy mini treatments such as facial massage, stone massage, foot exfoliation, teeth whitening freshen up, and much more in 10-15 minute “appointments".

Featured Product Area - The Featured Product Area hosts products and services for massage, skin care and medical aesthetics industries.

Green Room - Visit this oasis, located right on the show floor for daily breaks.

Spa Experience Entryway - Our thanks to spa consultants, Lexi Design, for enhancing the show entrance and appearance.

Sunday hours: 11am to 5pm. Monday: 11am to 4pm. Location: Los Angeles Convention Center, downtown LA. More information at www.spaandresortexpo.com.

FEB. 29 - MAR. 2: JEWLICIOUS FEST, LONG BEACH

The Jewlicious Festival takes place Feb 29th - Mar 2nd in Long Beach, CA. It is billed (very creatively, I might add) as a "Celebration of Jewnity." Sounds like some jewcy fun!

For more information please go to: http://jewliciousfestival.wordpress.com/

FEB. 24: ERIC IDLE GUEST DJs ON KCSN's MEET THE BEATLES RADIO SHOW TO SHARE GEORGE HARRISON SONGS & MEMORIES

Since famed Beatle George Harrison would have been 65 on February 25th, LA radio will be celebrating the birth of "The Quiet Beatle." Harrison's close friend Eric Idle will be guest DJ on Les Perry's "Meet the Beatles" show on KCSN 88.5 FM. The show runs 10am to 2pm every Sunday, but Idle (who is not only famous as a member of Monty Python, but also as a member and co-founder of Beatle parody band The Rutles) should be on air around 10am. Expect some anecdotes, favorite songs, and (we hope) some cool rare Harrison material.

Regarding George being branded the Quiet One, Idle has said his Beatle pal was actually quite the opposite (that once his friend started talking, he wouldn't shut up! -- an ironic statement, since Idle once played a character in a Python sketch who literally would not stop talking). For more Idle thoughts, and some great music, tune in for what promises to be a fun show celebrating the life and humor of Brit-rock's most famous Pisces, George Harrison.

Of course, expect LA's other Beatle-radio shows to be spinning lots of Harrisongs as well. From 8am to 10am, two back-to-back Beatle shows air on KRTH 101.1 fm (K-EARTH), and Chris Carter's excellent "Breakfast with the Beatles" show airs from 9am to noon, on KLOS 95.5 fm. Finally, we're not positive, but I suspect Little Steven will also play and/or talk about Mr. Harrison on his also-excellent KLOS show, "Little Steven's Underground Garage," which has The LA Report's favorite opening segment of any radio show on the air (check it out and enjoy!). He also thanks Alan Freed every show. How cool is that!

FEB. 18-24: SHM SUITE RETURNS TO LUXE HOTEL BEVERLY HILLS DURING ACADEMY AWARDS WEEK AFTER SUCCESSFUL GOLDEN GLOBES SUITE

PRESENTED BY MAGGIE FERRARI JEWELRY, NATALIE K DIAMONDS, NICOLE BARR B.E.L.T.S. INC & JELLY BELLY GOURMET JELLY BEANS, WITH UNVEILING OF ONE OF A KIND ITEMS, THE SHM SUITE TAKES PLACE RIGHT BEFORE OSCARS, WITH MANY NOMINEES, STYLISTS, DESIGNERS, STARS AND VIPS IN ATTENDANCE

The SHM Academy Awards "Get Ready for the Red Carpet" Suite will open at 9:00am on Monday Feb 18th and run through Oscar Day on Sunday Feb 24th. The suite will be open daily from 9:00am- 7:00pm at the Luxe Hotel, 360 N. Rodeo Dr in the Rodeo Drive Penthouse Suite. Oscar Nominees and Film Stars will be in attendence daily.

As a way of helping writers affected by the recently ended strike, SHM designers will donate an item from their collection that will be worn by stars on the red carpet, or to the upcoming award shows, which will be auctioned off. All proceeds will benefit the WGA Strike Fund.

Many stars will be visiting the SHM suite and autographing a Nicole Barr belt, which will be auctioned off. They will join Garret Dillahunt from the OSCAR NOMINATED MOVIE NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN, as well as Nikki Blonsky, the star of HAIRSPRAY, in helping children across this nation. Barr just donated $50,000.00 to the Oklahoma City Food Bank.

Madonna’s Facialist Iduna Spa - which features Intraceuticals Oxygen Infusion Facials - will be giving stars oxygen facials, while Joico will have Celebrity Stylists in the Suite doing hair. Celebrity eye lash extension experts Daniel Dinh of TWIN LASHES will be giving eyelash extensions to stars that visit the suite.

Stars who come to the suite will leave with a gift bag valued at $15,000.00 which includes one of a kind items, and a stay at the exclusive Sedona Rouge Spa in Sedona, AZ - or a stay in the Caribbean or Jamaica from caribbeanescapes.com. In addition, several stars will get a stay at the Palazzo Magnani Feroni in Florence, Italy or at the Relais Villa L’Olmo in Tuscany.

SHM's unique $15,000 VIP giftbags will include: Clive Christian Est. 1872, Queen of England Perfumer, Perfume and Cologne for men and women, the world's most expensive cologne and perfume; Archipelgo Botanicals Royal Seal Candles; Dirt Candles; Edelweiss Chocolate Beverly Hills Truffles; Nuvo French Sparkling Liquer; Sedona Rouge Hotel/Spa Stays; Caribbeanescapes.com stays in Caribbean and Jamaica; Cell Phone watches and Cell Phone Flashing Protector Case from www.turtlewireless.com (the first ones in the U.S.); Nicole Barr Swarovski Belts; Rural Revolution Black Cherry Walnut Body Scrub; China Glaze Diamond Dust Nail Lacquers; Amanda Adams Couture Embellished T-shirts; Moroccanoil Olivier Napa Valley for Sonoma Williams Orange Honey Molasses Sauce; Don Francisco Specialty Coffee, Arizona Loco; Cocoa Custom Six-Pack; Fiji Water in Custom Gold Sleeve; JOICO Design Collection; Pink Dot P.I.N.K. Fusion Vodka; Tylers Fine Coffees; 2002 Summit Lake Vineyards Zinfandel Ltd. Reserve; 2002 "Emily Kestrel" Cabernet Sauvignon – Ltd Reserve; 2002 Clair Riley's Pirate Reserve Zinfandel Port Ltd. Reserve; Lilyfield Hatbox Cakes & Shortbread; Elizabeth Leitz Antique Crystal Necklaces; Red, White & Bling by License 2 Bling; Porsche Design Leather Golf Gloves, Lamps Plus Crystal Grape Clusters. (Wow!) IN ADDITION: select guests/stars will receive a 3-day, 3-night stay Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa, rated as a 5-star hotel by Conde Nast, in magnificent Sedona, Arizona, replete with luxury suite, complete spa services and dinners at their 5-star restaurant Reds. Plus, select Nominees will get a 5 night stay at the Palazzo Magnani Feroni -- which is a 1,500 yr old former Palace now a luxury hotel in Florence Italy -- as well as a 3 night stay at the Relais Villa L’Olmo in Tuscany, Itlay in a private Luxury Country Villa.

SHM Suite at the Luxe Hotel in Beverly Hills. Dates: Feb 18- 24th, 2008, 9:00 am - 7:00 pm daily. For more information, contact: Roger or Lynn Neal of Neal Public Relations, 714-883-0231, 951-797-3205 or prstarus2000@yahoo.com.

FEB. 21: FIRST NATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT JOURNALISM AWARDS TO BE ANNOUNCED BY ACTRESS MAUD ADAMS AT LA PRESS CLUB

Swedish film star Maud Adams, who holds the distinction of being the only lead actress to appear in two James Bond films, will announce the winners of the first national contest for entertainment iournalists at 7 p.m., Feb. 21, at a reception held at the Los Angeles Press Club.

The LA Press Club website says: "The cocktail celebration at the club's Hollywood Boulevard headquarters is open to all. The event is free to press club members and out of town entertainment journalists -- $10 to all others."

The LA Press Club is located in the Steve Allen Theater at 4773 Hollywood Boulevard, two blocks west of Vermont Avenue, an easy walk from the Vermont/Sunset station on Metro's Red Line. For more information contact Los Angeles Press Club executive director Diana Ljungaeus at 323-669-8081 or email her at Diana@lapressclub.org; L.A. press club publicist Edward Headington can be reached at 818-720-7181.

FEB. 21-23: PRE-OSCAR SUITE COMES ALIVE AT ALIVE! EXPO GREEN PAVILION

And the Oscar goes to…..all that’s green

From February 21st to 23rd, the ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion returns to the Sofitel Hotel in LA for their pre-Academy Awards extravaganza. Owners Kim Shimmel and Patrycja Siewert-Towns in association with Diamond Girl Public Relations will present all that’s fabulous and green. ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion offers an inside look at the latest and greatest in regards to eco-friendly and eco-chic products. The producers of this Green Pavilion say that, unlike some swanky swag gifting suites, their main goal is to educate the media and celebrities as well as build awareness about improving the environment. From beauty products to delicious eats and cutting edge spa treatments, the ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion strives to stay one step ahead when it comes to making positive changes.

In addition to all that’s green, guests can indulge in their own Detox Depot with health diagnostics such as antioxidant screenings, detox footbaths, and even a hyperbaric oxygen chamber. ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion joins forces with a variety of charities, supporting those who support them. This year The Creative Coalition will benefit from proceeds from Olympic Paints “Hands of Fame” along with World Peace One and The Alaska Wilderness League.

With a nod to "Charlie Wilsons War" and "Kite Runner", ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion will promote the works of Kimberly Jackson - Kay Jay Collections at this Oscar week event. Using material hand-woven by the women of Afghanistan, Kay Jay Collections creates elegant red carpet worthy clutches here in the USA with a portion of the sales going towards Women’s Rights Organizations in Afghanistan.

Below is a list of some of the participants scheduled to exhibit at the ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion and help support the organizers' mission of seeking out the coolest new eco-friendly companies and products: Aubrey Organics ,100% Natural Hair, Skin and Body Care products since 1967; North American Herb & Spice, Organic Oregano Oil; Chi Tea, Organic Green Tea; Len & Joe Inc., natural vitamins & supplements; Olympic Paints, Zero VOC and earth-friendly celebrity "Hands Of Fame" tile painting with Forbo Marmoleum Tiles, flooring made from recycled materials; Organic Crush Eco Kid Couture is made from organic material and eco friendly processes; Dejahmi, Fair Trade jewelry with sustainable materials; Savané Silver, one-of-a-kind designs (see post comment for more details); and Danny Maltzman, celebrity artist will exhibit works using eco-friendly paint.

Don’t miss this exciting event at the height of Hollywood awards season. For more information please visit www.aliveexpogreenpavilion.com and for all press inquiries please contact Stacy Broff at stacy@diamondgirlpr.com.

BCAM (BROAD CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM) DEBUT WEEKEND FREE AT LACMA

From msnbc.com: "To celebrate BCAM (and related renovations), LACMA (5905 Wilshire Blvd.) is offering free admission February 16–18 (advance tickets required). Regular rates are $12 for adults, $8 for students and seniors and free for children 17 and younger. Visit http://www.lacma.org/ for more information."

In addition, to kickoff the weekend in an extra special way, LACMA's excellent MUSE group is celebrating the new BCAM with a party exclusively for Muse members on Feb. 14. Members are sure to have a great time, as Muse is known for a festive atmosphere as well as a creative crowd, gourmet food and delightful libations at all their events. If you are not part of Muse yet, you are encouraged to join. More details about it and how to join are available here.

For more information on LACMA's BCAM opening weekend, click here or call (323) 857-6151.

FEB. 12: HADAKA SUSHI BRINGS OUT LA'S COOL CELEB CROWD FOR DELICIOUS GRAND OPENING

Hadaka Sushi officially opened Feb. 12 on the heart of the Sunset Strip, right across from the infamous Chateau Marmont. Many celebs, VIPs and media poured in to partake of the bar (pouring Trump Vodka, among other spirits) and, of course, the killer sushi. To top it off, a topless (but covered with a giant green leaf and, atop that, sushi) model was horizontal on the main dining room table for all to try the great sushi creations from the amazing chef.

Celebs in attendance included Bill Maher, Jon Lovitz, actress Lorielle New, book author Traci Slatton (author of the new novel "Immortal") and many others. Special thanks to publicist Charmaine Blake for putting on a great event.

Make sure to make Hadaka Sushi your place to wine and dine yourself and your friends, it has a great ambiance and the food is delicious. Located on Sunset Blvd., slightly West of Crescent Heights. 8226 W Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90046. (323) 822-2601. Get directions - View map

FEB. 12: BOOK READING/SIGNING FOR NEW NOVEL "IMMORTAL"

Come to downtown LA on Feb. 12 to celebrate the novel IMMORTAL. The event begins at 7:00 p.m. Metropolis Books LA will present its author, Traci L. Slatton, who will read from and sign her new book, which was just released nationwide by Bantam/Random House.

Location: Metropolis Books, 440 Main Street, Los Angeles. For more information please contact PPMG at (310) 860-7774 or email: media@ppmg.info.

STARS COME OUT TO CELEBRATE 40th ANNIVERSARY OF "GUESS WHO'S COMING TO DINNER" AND RELEASE OF STANLEY KRAMER DVD BOXSET FROM SONY

On Feb. 11, producer/actress Karen Kramer - along with special guest Quincy Jones - hosted the 40th anniversary event for Stanley Kramer's landmark film, "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner." The event was held at the Hammer Museum in Westwood. The night began with a wonderful pre-reception featuring many celebs, members of the media and VIPs intermingling and buzzing about the film as well as this year's awards season. Following the reception came a spirited introduction of the film and its history by Ms. Kramer, the widow of the legendary director/producer, then remarks from Quincy Jones as well as producer Dean Devlin (who discussed his involvement with the organization Facing History and Ourselves). Sony then presented a $25,000 check to Facing History, after which all in attendance watched a screening of the film in the Billy Wilder Theatre.

Karen Kramer and Quincy Jones
(AP Photo/Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Dan Steinberg)

The Host Committee included Tom Brokaw, Dean Devlin, Harrison Ford, Al Gore and Steven Spielberg, along with Sony Pictures Entertainment's Co-Chairman Amy Pascal and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment's President David Bishop.

Other celebrities and VIPs in attendance at this 40th anniversary red carpet celebration included actress Katherine Kramer (daughter of Stanley and Karen Kramer), Stella Stevens, Louis Gossett Jr., Katharine Houghton (one of the stars of the film), producer Tony Bill, astronaut Buzz Aldrin, actor Harrison Held and many others.

After the screening, guests were given the DVD boxset of five Stanley Kramer films that will be released on February 12, 2008, titled "The Stanley Kramer Film Collection." In addition to "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" the set includes other Kramer classics such as "The 5000 Fingers of Dr. T," "The Wild One," "Ship of Fools" and "The Member of the Wedding." The boxset features many bonus features, including an introduction by Karen Kramer on every film, five featurettes on "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," two featurettes on each of the other four films, a Photo Gallery from every film, commentary with author and film historian Jeanine Basinger on "The Wild One" and commentary with author and biographer Professor Virginia Spencer Carr on "The Member of the Wedding."

THIS WEEK IN HISTORY: 1964: FUTURE SPOCK SITS IN FOR SICK BEATLE GEORGE HARRISON ON ED SULLIVAN SHOW

In 1964, struggling session guitarist and spoon player Leonard Nimoy was tapped by the Beatles to sit in for flu-ridden George Harrison on their famous Ed Sullivan Show debut. Nimoy had impressed Beatle manager Brian Epstein with his Harrison-like eyebrows, face, build and bangs. However, during dress rehearsal, Nimoy's "performance" was so horrible, stagehands refused to work without ear plugs and headphones, and Ed himself made a now-famous fingers-pinching-nose gesture to Epstein. Brian relayed the news to the Fab Four, direct from Ed, that "Leonardo el-stinko."

After a group huddle, Nimoy was canned and George was forced to play, despite a 103 degree fever, pasty face and pimples. Of course, the rest is history. The Beatles were a big hit and went on to fame and fortune. Nimoy took up acting, eventually landing a small role on an NBC science fiction show playing a logical alien... with a Beatle haircut.

The story might have ended there, but Nimoy could not get the Beatles out of his Vulcan mind. He soon formed his own quartet, using his Star Trek co-stars, and although their music was branded as "boldly going where no band has gone before - the sewer" and "hilariously inept" by critics, the popularity of their TV show led Capitol to sign the band, and issue their infamous debut, "Meet The Trekles."

Capitol was sure The Trekles were the next Monkees. After all, each had a hit NBC show to promote them. Yet despite Capitol's backing of the album, with its subtle design cues that this group was equal to the Beatles, the public never got caught up in Treklemania. Their first single, "Hey Hey We're the Trekles and We're Comin' to Your Sun," earned nothing but laughs, jeers and lawsuits.

Yet Nimoy was not deterred. He decided to scrap "the crappy part" of the Trekles, Scotty and Bones, and along with pal William "Kirk" Shatner, released one followup after another. "Trekarthur Park," "The Trektember of my Years," "Winchester Trekthedral" and "Trektoe Through the Tulips" were all major duds, and Capitol was fast losing patience. Even the Paul Simon penned "Mrs. Trekinson" went nowhere, at warp speed.

Then, Nimoy and Shatner had an epiphany. People loved them, not their musical "ability." They would make an album featuring their voices only, without attempting any guitar strumming, piano tinkling or spoons. It worked. The resultant album, "Spaced Out," finally gave the Trektastic Twosome the smash hit Leonard always dreamed of. Making it even sweeter was that "Spaced Out" knocked the Beatles' "We Hate Spock" out of the Number One spot on the charts. Nimoy was, at last, redeemed, all those years after being bumped out of the Beatles. The record went on to win the Grammy for Best Part-Spoken-Word-Part-Vocal Performance By A Jewish Duo or Comedy Act.

Rumor has it that Nimoy's long delayed spoons-and-slide-guitar pet project, "Trek Sounds," will finally be released from the (tightly sealed) Capitol vaults. One can only hope. But for now, here's to Leonard Nimoy, who despite of (or perhaps because of) the Beatle boot, lived long and prospered.

LACMA BCAM GALA OPENING FEB. 9 SOLIDIFIES LA REPUTATION AS ART MECCA

On February 9, art, politics, celebs and Hollywood collide in smashing style as the Broad Contemporary Art Museum (or BCAM) celebrates its birth with a gala opening at LACMA. And smack in the middle of Hollywood award season, no less. Perhaps good timing, since having an event when "important people" are already in town or on their way can't hurt the star/buzz factor.

Here is what a W Magazine online post had to say (with bold added):

The party will be as over-the-top as the invitation, with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger on hand to speak and a possible performance by Elton John. And then, of course, there’s the chance to see about 200 choice works loaned by Broad, as well as a massive new Richard Serra that LACMA bought, with the help of Broad, for its soaring ground-floor gallery. “There’s no other building like it in America,” says Broad, noting that with the opening of BCAM, Los Angeles will have more museum space devoted to contemporary art than any other city in the world. Broad is ensuring that a galaxy of art stars will attend by flying in (some on his private jet) Jasper Johns, Robert Rauschenberg, Cindy Sherman, Damien Hirst, Ellsworth Kelly, Serra, Koons and others whose work figures prominently in his collection.

RATATOUILLE SWEEPS ANNIE AWARDS ON ANIMATION'S BIGGEST NIGHT, PERFECTLY TIMED AS "THE YEAR OF THE RAT" BEGINS

report by Don Rose

The 35th Annual Annie Awards honored the best in 2007 animation on February 8, 2008. The show featured many celeb presenters and an eclectic audience filled with top talent in animation, voiceover, writing and other areas of creative production. This being The LA Report's first Annies, we were thoroughly impressed. The show was funny, well paced, never seemed to drag, and featured many touching, inspiring and downright hilarious moments. Presenter James Hong pointed out (after wishing us Happy Chinese New Year) that this is The Year of the Rat -- so apropos, as Pixar favorite "Ratatouille" won 9 Annie Awards, including Best Animated Feature.

This year the venue was moved from the Alex Theatre in Glendale to UCLA’s Royce Hall (see image), and the event was flawless and fun, hosted by the always-hysterical Tom Kenny (former top comic who has gone on to animation legendhood as the voice of Spongebob Squarepants). One of the ceremony's funniest moments came after Tom lost out in his voiceover category. Acting (mock) sad and deeply disappointed, Tom's fellow Spongebob voice actors rally to him and soon, his verve back, Kenny tells us to watch a clip that will show how big a range of voice talent he and his fellow Spongebobians can display. The resultant clips of Casablanca, Singin' in the Rain and The Godfather, as (re-)voiced by Kenny and Team Squarepants, could have won the ROTFL Kneeslapper Award of the night, on a night filled with many more magical moments and laugh-out-loud lines.

The post awards party was equally stellar, featuring much animated dialogue (pun not intended, I swear) and buffets filled with top notch gourmet food (including polenta with salmon, risotto, shrimp with mushrooms, salad, delectable desserts - and, surprisingly, no Ratatouille!). Guests also enjoyed several open bars, plus the smooth surf sounds and twangy tones of The Blue Hawaiians, sponsored by MyToons.com.

As Weird Al Yankovic (a presenter and nominee this year) was giving an autograph, I asked him something I always wondered about: on those song parodies he's famous for, can he just rely on Fair Use to get by, or does he always ask permission from the songwriters who wrote the original tunes? I expected the latter, and he confirmed that. Al said that Fair Use is a gray area, and while he might be able to rely on it (his remakes being obvious parodies), he always asks permission. (And, as I recall, he usually gets it.) As for song credit (my next question), he said the original writer gets full music credit, and splits the lyric credit (so, he pointed out, the lyrics to "Eat It" are by Michael Jackson and Weird Al Yankovic, music by Michael Jackson). Now I can't help but wonder how many wonderfully bizarre songwriting "teams" must be out there in parodysongcreditland, to discover and get a chuckle from.

While The Annie Awards is billed as a black tie optional event (and some of those classic penguinish outfits were indeed on display, perhaps a fitting nod to Sony's multi-nominated film "Surf's Up"), we expected that many folks in this creative field (this being LA after all) might laxify the attire requirement, and happily we were right (The LA Report being in the loose-definition-of-black-tie camp).

All in all, this was one wonderful event. I give a very strong recommendation to our readers to attend the Annie Awards next year, especially if you work in animation, love watching animation, or just want to see the coolest award statue ever (with an actual working zoetrope -- in gold, of course -- that spins and has a little movie inside!). Special thanks to ASIFA-Hollywood, Melanie Crandall, and Gretchen Dixon for their assistance on this event.

"Ratatouille," Pixar Animation's tale of a rat who wants to be a chef, won the award for best feature production. Other nominees in that category: DreamWorks' "Bee Movie," Sony Pictures' "Surf's Up," Sony Pictures Classics' "Persepolis" and Fox's "The Simpsons Movie." "Ratatouille" also won writing and directing for Brad Bird, best voice acting for Ian Holm, best character animation, music, storyboarding, and production design. "Surf's Up," Sony's story about surfing penguins, won for animated effects and animation production artist. In the TV arena, Nickelodeon's "El Tigre" won best animated production for children and character design, while ShadowMachine's "Robot Chicken" won for character animation and directing. For a list of all winners and nominees, click here.

FEB. 8: BOB DYLAN'S AMERICAN JOURNEY EXHIBIT OPENS AT SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER

Stellar new exhibit, organized by Experience Music Project, showcases Bob Dylan material and media between 1956 and 1966, his formative years as an artist, poet, prophet and pop/folk/rock/blues chameleon

Photo by Barry Feinstein

To critics and fans the world over, the distinctly American body of work of Bob Dylan matches the legacies of Walt Whitman, Louis Armstrong and his own early hero, Woody Guthrie. Don't miss the Los Angeles presentation - and final stop - of this acclaimed exhibition, organized by Seattle's Experience Music Project.

The LA Report attended the opening party for this new Skirball exhibit, and we can say hands down that you will love it - even more so if you are a Bob Dylan fan. At the opening party, a large crowd came to get the first glimpse at all the artifacts, as well as enjoy a wonderful assortment of food (amazing tomato soup, tuna casserole, pizza, broccoli and mushrooms for a fondue cheese dip, brownies and a chocolate dipping area, and more), libations, and even a great Dylan cover band called Highway 61 Revisited.

The exhibit itself is excellent -- thrilling, fun, inspiring and enlightening. Featuring more than 160 artifacts, including Dylan's handwritten drafts of classic songs, rare posters and a recording of his first concert, which has never been commercially released, Bob Dylan's American Journey, 1956-1966 focuses on the first (and some say best) decade of his long career. From his beginnings as Robert Zimmerman in the post-war industrial town of Hibbing, Minnesota, to his debut on the Greenwich Village folk scene, to his rise to unprecedented fame as the rockstar/poet who "electrified" contemporary songwriting, the exhibit chronicles Dylan's first ten years as a public figure, artistic innovator, and compelling voice of social conscience.

There are many booths and walls full of media to explore - photos, mementos, guitars, notes, videos, booths where you can hear every track of his first few albums at the push of a button, even an entire interactive-music section where you can remix Dylan ditties, play drums along with Dylan tunes, and even sing along with Bob. (I heard one attendee doing a not-bad Bob as he bobbed his head with high levels of enjoyment - a kind of personal grok concert, if you will.) And, when you first walk in the exhibit, there is the Wall of Covers - an eclectic international record collection of cover versions of one Dylan classic (Blowin' in the Wind) all mounted on the welcoming wall.

Bob Dylan's American Journey, 1956-1966. Skirball Cultural Center, on Sepulveda just off the 405 near Mulholland (just south of Mulholland, technically). Open til 9 on Thursdays. Exhibit runs Feb. 8 to June 8, 2008. The LA Report highly recommends it. Don't forget to see the Gift Shop, which has several cool Dylan items to buy; some are unique to the Skirball. ADMISSION: $10 General $7 Seniors and Full-Time Students $5 Children 2-12. Free to Members and kids under 2; Free to all on Thursdays. Includes admission to all other exhibits.

RELATED PROGRAMS:

• Brett Dennen (Friday, February 15, 8:00 pm)
• Bob Dylan's American Journey - Orientation Talks (Friday, February 8, 1:00 pm)
• East of Eden (Tuesday, February 12, 1:30 pm)
• Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (Thursday, February 28, 8:00 pm)
• Making Music: Shelter From the Storm (Sunday, February 24, 11:30 am)
• Dylan's Image and Identity (Sunday, February 10, 2:00 pm)
• Rebel Without a Cause (Tuesday, February 19, 1:30 pm)
• Bob Dylan's American Journey - Members Only Docent Orientations (Wednesday, February 6, 1:00 pm)
• Bob Dylan's American Journey - Members Only Exhibition Preview (Wednesday, February 6, 12:00 pm)
• Defining Dylan: A Bob Dylan Symposium (Sunday, March 30, 9:30 am)
• Kiosk (Friday, March 7, 8:00 pm)
• Bob Dylan's American Journey - Members Only Dinner Buffet (Thursday, February 7, 5:45 pm)

MAR. 4: ANNUAL HOLLYWOOD BUSINESS & TOURISM EXPO, UNIVERSAL HILTON HOTEL

RIP, GOP CONSERVATIVES; HELLO, CONVERSATILES!

essay by Don Rose

McCain Train Gains, Mitt quits. But the rise of John McCain and descent of Mitt Romney is just one aspect of a larger political shift. The soaring ascendancy of Barack Obama is another part of it. What is "it"? The end of the "conservative revolution" that began circa 1980 with Ronald Reagan, and now ends in 2008 with the man who loves to emulate and be thought of as another Reagan, George W. Bush. A 28-year run -- not bad -- one which saw but one Democratic name in the White House amidst a sea of GOP. Imagine, only Bill Clinton broke the string of Republican Presidents from 1980 to 2008. The reason for this GOP domination: the rise, acceleration and expansion of the Conservative Wave.

Now that wave is crashing down, and riding in on the new wave is John McCain, the man who prides himself on being able to reach across the aisle to (God forbid!) Democrats, who does not mind bucking "conservative wisdom", whatever that is. (A contradiction, perhaps.) Mitt Romney made a whole campaign out of begging GOP "believers" to see the light and seek him out since only he preached the true conservative gospel. But it was in vain versus McCain.

Why? Because, somewhere along the line, GOP voters freed themselves, woke up and wised up. They realized that their party originally became dominated by "Conservatives" when Reagan rode into power on a one Trickle Down pony, yet these same GOP folks ran record deficits, which was never a tenet of true conservatism. Then the party became dominated by Religious Right Conservatives (the Falwell Farewell to GOP moderates), which finally led to a Born Again Religious Right Conservative (Dubya). Yet behind the "conservative" verbage lies a liberal amount of spending (pun possibly intended). Yep, Dubya has full blown Big Spendingitis, now drawing up the first-ever 3 trillion dollar budget, and even higher record deficits.

As the Dubya Decade decayed, Big Spendingitis and Big Religion had fully infected the Conservative "mold", and after almost 3 decades, the term "Conservative" is now downRight moldy. Who ever said being "conservative" was about Big Government (record spending and deficits)? Who ever said being Republican was about Big Religion? The GOP got so lopsided to the Right, it couldn't right itself, and finally fell over. And the main man standing is McCain.

Yes, 6 years and 6 months after 9/11, 28 years after Reagan's rise, the American People are waking up and shaking things up. They realize that today's "conservative", the Neo-Conservative, and other brands of current conservatives are not really the real thing. The current shift in the political current is about allowing the GOP, the Grand Old Party, to have more just the "conservative" brand. To be truly appealing and truly Grand, a Party needs more than one brand. The Grand Old Party was like that before. And it can be again, perhaps with McCain.

In other words, Republicans are starting to realize their party was hijacked, on a flight path that kept banking Right. But now, just maybe, they realize that "GOP" can mean many things. It can be other-than-Conservative. It can be maverick. It can tell the truth. It can take the Constitution out of the garbage can. It can befriend Democrats. It can embrace eco green values. It can go for Finance Reform. It can be Arnold. It can be McCain.

But what term can succinctly sum up this shift? "Anti-Conservative" sounds so negative, but that's getting warm. RepubliCAN sounds too, well, Up-With-People-ish, and frankly, who likes multi-case font. Still, we need a word here. It's about a resurgence of open-minded Republicans who go with what's Right (as in engaging in conversation with other points of view) over what's Right (as in insulated, "I'm always right" Right-of-center conservative). It is about the "free interchange of thoughts or views", with the emphasis on free -- and that, my friends, is the definition of "converse." Hence, I propose we say that McCain is the new leader of the "Conversatiles" - converts to conversation and converse versatile thinking - who are finally replacing the old King of the (Capitol) Hill, the Conservatives.

Heck, the new (or reborn again?) GOP is so free, it can even be a Democratic supporter. Yep, hard as it is to believe, some rightwing talk show hosts and authors are so in an uproar over McCain's Gain, they are even jumping to the other side. Ann Coulter said she would vote for Hillary Clinton over McCain, and Rush Limbaugh pretty much said ditto. And they were serious. Yep, signs are that the GOP party hijacking is ending, and the party's hostages are flaunting their freedom. Feeling free to converse and vote any way they wish. To think freely. To let religion stay out of the fray, and obey that little thing called "separation of Church and State". Some "conversatiles" have even become free enough to express support for a free thinking libertarian like Ron Paul. Some even go so far as to support Barack Obama. I saw it online, and they were serious. Who woulda thunk it.

Heck, it's almost as if common sense, good ideas and intellectual freedom are coming back in vogue, after years of religious and political dogma. God and dogma used to be Good, Right, and required for GOP candidates. Now, the formula has grown stale, and was in vain versus McCain.

One more note as the nation races toward making Presidential history. Only 15 Senators have ever been President, and only two Senators (Warren Harding and John F. Kennedy) were sitting Senators when they won the top job, going directly from Senate seat to Oval Office. Yet in 2008, all three remaining frontrunners for the Presidency are Senators. One will surely win. Showing that another Great Age is ending: the Age of Governors. Twas exactly 40 years ago that the last (ex-)Senator won the White House: then-Vice President Richard Nixon. And guess what: he was a Republican, and he was NOT a Conservative (which of course every student knows thanks to his nickname, Moderate Dick).

So then: who will win the Presidency this time around, in November 2008? Another Clinton? Obama? McCain? No matter what name gets the Prez prize, the American people are the clear winners.

FEB. 7: HAMMER MUSEUM & FILTER MAGAZINE PRESENT BIG TIME, FEATURING THE FILM "CHICAGO 10"

Filter magazine and the Hammer continue their bi-monthly late night happenings with another culture-filled evening featuring extended gallery hours, film screenings, and music in the courtyard by guest DJs. The latest Late-night Party is on Thursday, Feb 7 from 7 to 11pm.

From the Hammer Museum website:

Big Time Screening of Chicago 10 -- Filter magazine and the Hammer continue our bi-monthly late night happenings with another culture-filled evening featuring extended gallery hours, music in the courtyard by guest DJs, and a special screening of Chicago 10 (2007) which features archival footage, animation, and music to look back at the eight anti-war protesters who were put on trial following the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Written and directed by Brett Morgen. Running time: 103 minutes.RSVPs required for entry: rsvpla@filtermmm.com. Please note, RSVP does not guarantee seating. This event is free and open to all, but screening is limited to the first 250 people. Box office opens at 6pm.

And a coming attraction:

Thursday, Apr 17 - 7pm. Big Time. Filter magazine and the Hammer continue our bi-monthly late night happenings with another culture-filled evening featuring extended gallery hours and music in the courtyard by guest DJs.RSVPs required for entry: rsvpla@filtermmm.com. Please note, RSVP does not guarantee seating.

Live Report from the Obama campaign LA party at the Avalon Club in Hollywood

The Avalon club is very crowded, with the expected throngs of young supporters, and a fun vibe with several top DJs spinning -- but it is not the over the top energetic vibe that one might expect. Of course, that is understandable since it looks like he is not going to win California. The many cool folks here include the director of "Who Killed The Electric Car," Chris Paine. Many TV screens everywhere with pundits and polls galore. I get the sense that they are happy but not ecstatic with the Super Tuesday results, and are looking ahead to the next round of state primaries, where Obama is expected to do better than Clinton overall.

TOP PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES: WHEN THEY WERE YOUNG

(from an American Apparel email endorsing Obama for the Dems,
McCain for the GOP
on Super Tuesday
primary day)

FEB. 4: VILLAGE PIZZERIA OPENING NEW HOLLYWOOD LOCATION

VILLAGE PIZZERIA is opening a new Hollywood location on Monday Feb. 4, at 6363 Yucca, right around the corner from the Capitol Records building. Their motto, which Beatle/Lennon fans will get a kick out of, is "Give a piece a chance". They will have free delivery, and will be open every day (which I guess is "Eight Days a Week"). Phone: 323-790-0763.

You can also visit their ORIGINAL location, in Larchmont Village. 131 N Larchmont Blvd. Open every day. Phone: 323-465-5566.

FEB. 4 IS ACROSS THE UNIVERSE DAY AS NASA BEAMS BEATLE SONG INTO SPACE ON ITS 40TH ANNIVERSARY; ACROSS THE UNIVERSE DVD BEAMS INTO STORES FEB. 5

Big Beatle news for Feb. 4, 2008: this will be the day that the classic Beatle tune "Across the Universe" (recorded 40 years ago to the day, and mainly a John Lennon song, if you're keeping score) will be beamed toward the North Star by NASA. Anyone interested in learning more about "Across the Universe Day" can visit acrosstheuniverseday.com. According to the website, "NASA is going to transmit the Beatles tune from a satellite antenna directly into outer space! And it will do this at the exact same time as fans Across The World are playing 'Across The Universe'!" Fans can actually watch the launch of the music into space on this site.

The organizer of Across the Universe Day is the irrepressible impresario Martin Lewis (who also happens to be the force behind one of The LA Report's fave fests, the Mods and Rockers Festival). Martin told Chris Carter on "Breakfast with the Beatles" that he is encouraging Beatle fans everywhere to gather at 4pm PST on Monday and play "Across the Universe" at the same time. Mr. Lewis (who was mentored by Beatle PR legend Derek Taylor) said that Paul and Yoko are really into this event (and The LA Report assumes Ringo must be as well, although I bet he wishes NASA was beaming his new "Liverpool 8" instead).

But which of the many versions of "Across the Universe" will be beamed toward Polaris? Martin said the tune being sent into space will be the "most poignant" version, in his opinion -- originally recorded on February 4, 1968 which features the voices of 2 female fans (Lizzie and Gail) who happened to be at Abbey Road on that day, way back in the day. The legend goes like this, said Martin: the duo were standing outside Abbey Road Studios when, late that night, Paul came out and asked if any of the girls he saw standing there could hold a high note. One of the girls, 17 at the time, who was from Brazil, volunteered and took her friend in with her. In the studio, they sang on the same mike with John and Paul, doing backing vocals!

And now, courtesy of NASA and the Deep Space Network, they are all going into space: John, Paul, George, Ringo, Lizzie and Gail.

It will take a very very long time to reach Polaris, even at the speed of light. But just Imagine, all those years from now, what might be beamed back? (Related notes: the film "Across The Universe" will be released on DVD on Feb. 5, and we hear NASA will be beaming that film into space as well, at a future date. Yes, it will soon be a great day around Polaris for Beatle fans -- if you define soon as 431 years, which is how long it will take the transmission to reach the North Star. By the way, Northern Songs was the company formed to publish Lennon/McCartney songs, so sending one to the North Star seems apropos. Finally, this summer marks NASA's 50th anniversary. Happy birthday, US Space Agency!)

SUPERBOWL GADGET YOU GOTTA GET: THE MAGIC BULLET PLATINUM PRO & BULLET TO GO

The Must-Have Superbowl Supergadget is Perfect for Tailgating or Home Partymaking

It's Super Bowl 2008 -- do you know where your supergadgets are? We do. This is THE one that can make your life easier, and more fun to boot. The MAGIC BULLET, which comes in two varieties: the PLATINUM PRO and the BULLET TO GO.

Serve up your favorite Superbowl recipes from frozen drinks to fabulous dips. Whether you’re entertaining at home or heading to the game, there’s a Magic Bullet for all occasions! The Magic Bullet Platinum Pro is an entirely new concept in labor-saving devices. Unlike bulky blenders and unwieldy food processors that most of us only pull out of storage for specific recipes and special occasions, the Magic Bullet Platinum Pro is so handy, so versatile and easy to use that you'll put it to work EVERY single day (probably several times a day). Best of all, it saves you time because it does almost any job in the kitchen in 10 seconds or less!

The Cyclonic Cutting Zone^® Process

The secret to the Magic Bullet Platinum Pro's time-saving efficiency is the specially designed blade and unique bullet-shaped design that automatically circulates food back into the Cyclonic Cutting Zone^® region with so much force and speed that it can do virtually any job in 10 seconds or less.

Using the Magic Bullet^® Platinum Pro^TM blender couldn't be easier. There are no buttons to press, no complicated manuals to read. Simply place one of THE BULLET^™ Cups or Party Mugs on to the High-Torque Power Base and press...it's a snap! With the easy-to-use Magic Bullet Platinum Pro, you can make delicious party dips like salsa, guacamole and bean dip, refreshing frozen margaritas and pina coladas, a variety of tantalizing pasta sauces, decadent desserts such as creamy chocolate mousse or frosty milkshakes and more. All with virtually no effort and no clean up. And all in 10 seconds or less.

Using the Magic Bullet^® Platinum Pro^TM Blender is as easy as 1, 2, 3:
1. Load the ingredients into the Short Cup, Tall Cup, or Party Mug.
2. Twist on the Cross Blade or Flat Blade until the blade and cup have a tight seal.
3. Line up the tabs, place THE BULLET^™ on the Power Base and press down on the cup to turn it on.

Here's how it works: As long as you're holding it down, the Magic Bullet Platinum Pro is on. When you want the blades to stop, simply let go. Or, for hands-free operation: Press down and gently turn the cup clockwise until the tabs lock under the lip of the Power Base. Now the Magic Bullet Platinum Pro is in Lock On mode where the motor runs continually. To turn it off, simply twist the cup back counterclockwise and release the cup.

Mastering the Magic Bullet^® Platinum Pro^TM blender "Mixing" techniques is a snap. Lock On Mode is the hands free mode you use to blend foods until they achieve a smooth consistency. This is the technique for preparing creamy dishes like chocolate mousse, smoothies and frozen cocktails.

And here is one stat that any sports-party host will love: The Bullet to Go runs on batteries and serves up to 25 cups before needing to be recharged!

The Magic Bullet® Platinum Pro and Bullet to Go. Available at magicbulletplatinumpro.com for $99.99, or bullettogo.com for $99.99. The LA Report highly recommends it.

LOVELY LADY OF LA: ANDREA HARRISON, ACTRESS/MODEL

The LA Report always loves running into Andrea E. Harrison, as we've done twice at the cool clothing store EM & Co on trendy West Third (7940 W. 3rd St, to be exact) - most recently on Feb. 1st for the Zachariah Bryant private showing of his new clothing line for women. Ms. Harrison, a creative triple threat (actress, producer and model), always exudes class, charm and a warm smile for those who engage her. (Not that she's engaged, as far as we know - don't get those rumor mills going just yet.)



Down-to-earth Andrea hails from Florida (we're sure Jacksonville misses her), and now resides in trendy Brentwood (okay, maybe we meant pricey Brentwood). We at The LA Report think this tall thin terrific talent is going places. She has been very busy this past year; you may have seen her in Starting from Scratch , Grindin' and Perfect Red (all in 2007).

Jean Baptiste Lacroix/WireImage.com

You can check out Andrea's credits on her IMDB page and visit her official website at andreaeharrison.com. (For those intrigued with mane matters, this 5'10" beauty is currently a blonde. Va va voom.)



Oh, and you are probably asking, what's the "E" stand for? We think it may be Exciting.

(Jott from Don Rose) This is a test message to see if the Jott service will transcribe this message a...

"This is a test message to see if the Jott service will transcribe this message and post it on my blog called the LA report blog. If hopefully will work if you are reading this now." Listen to Don's message Brought to you by Jott.com - 1-866-JOTT-123 300 East Pike Street, Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98122

Interested in joining Jott? Jott is a free service that turns your voice into tasks, e-mail and text messages. Go to www.jott.com or just call (866) JOTT 123

FEB. 1: 2008 MARDI GRAS PARTY, SKIRBALL

$25 Ticket Special Till 1/1/08

The Date in L.A. Mardi Gras Party will take place Friday, February 1, 2008 at the Skirball Cultural Center, and will benefit California Fire Victims and Katrina Relief. There will be a great live band, DJ and much more. Ticket prices go up on January 1, 2008 to $35 so this is your last chance for the lower price. BONUS: Get $5.00 off if you use the code lareport at checkout, so your ticket will be only $25 till January 1st. Please see the website for details: http://www.dateinla.com/

The LA Report loved Date in LA's 2007 Halloween bash, and we expect their Mardi Gras party will be just as good, if not better. We hear that guests will feel like they are on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. The KIIS FM STREET TEAM WILL BE THERE. Plus, you will experience: Live Band & DJ / Dancing All Night Long / Dance Contest / Free Parking / Cheese & Crackers & Veggies for Cocktail Hour 8-9 / Snacks All Night / Chocolate Fountain / Beads Galore, Hats, Tiaras, Boas, Party Favors / Give-a-Ways / Raffles / Prizes and More! Remember: the party benefits California Fire Victims and Katrina Relief! Attire: festive, colorful, fashionable, cool and fun -- just like Mardi Gras. Everybody gets beads!! http://www.dateinla.com/