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July 29, 2008

WOKCANO ROCKS SANTA MONICA WITH VIP GRAND OPENING PARTY; MULTI-LEVEL RESTAURANT/BAR WOWS CROWD WITH SIGNATURE DRINKS AND ASIAN CULINARY DELIGHTS

Event Review by Don Rose

(July 29, 2008: Santa Monica, CA) If you are one of those ADD Angelenos who only has time for a two word review, here it is: Wokcano rocks.

Still with me? Great. Now for more details of the grand opening party for Wokcano in Santa Monica.

Hundreds came out tonight and partook of the wonderful food and libations passed around constantly by the very attractive and friendly wait staff at Wokcano. The Wokcano chefs were really cooking (pardon the apropos pun) late into the night.

The sushi was delicious (I loved the california roll, and another variety that seemed to be spicy tuna with cream cheese), but the tray that got the most play contained scrumptious glazed shrimp, spring rolls and tempura strips.

The passed-around drinks were also popular. In addition to white and red wine, I enjoyed the liquid specialties -- unique to Wokcano -- with such enchanting names as Asian Persuasion (the lychee makes it a sweet treat) and The Last Dragon (Trump grape vodka being a prime ingredient).

Garth Trinidad, host of popular radio show "Chocolate City" on Santa Monica College's ultrahip station KCRW, kept the vibe pulsing on the 1s and 2s.

Speaking of 1 and 2, the party tonight had two official "seatings" (630 and 830), and both were extremely well attended (when they said "be early" they really meant it). But most chose not to remain seated, preferring (as I did) to stand, roam and mingle in order to take in all the energy, and increase the odds of snagging the busy servers as they roamed the tri-level establishment.

But wait, there's more! At a climax point of the party, firedancers took center stage and entranced the packed Wokcano crowd.

Before this review ends, I must give big kudos to Kim Koury (SPIN Public Relations) and Jenn Laskey (RedLight Special Events and Promotions); each of these friendly fun gals are experts in event promotion and production, who always put on excellent events and ensure eclectic attendees at cool venues. The LA Report recommends you get on their mailing lists in order to enjoy their future activities (Kim Koury: kim@spinprgroup.com ; Jenn Laskey: jenn@redlightpromotions.com).

The LA Report recommends you experience Wokcano soon - on a night not so packed, perhaps - and enjoy the many wonderful dishes and drinks that are both unique and delicious. The southeast corner of 5th and Santa Monica Boulevard is now THE place for great Asian food in the heart of Santa Monica. (Note: Wokcano SM is a great date spot, too.)

EARTHQUAKE ROCKS LA, 11:42AM, JULY 29; LATEST LA QUAKE, MAGNITUDE 5.4-5.8, LASTS SEVERAL SECONDS, SOME PHONE SERVICE OUT IN GREATER LOS ANGELES AREA

I am currently in Encino, and it felt like a rolling earthquake up here on the 4th floor on an office building near Ventura and Woodley. Not intense, more of a gentle shaking and wave-like motion. Time duration of the quake: several seconds that felt like 45 seconds, but was probably more like 15. --News flash reported by Don Rose.

//////////////

UPDATE 1:

According to KNBC.com, this late-morning quake may be an aftershock to a lighter one this morning:

Magnitude-5.6 Earthquake Strikes Los Angeles
POSTED: 6:02 am PDT July 29, 2008
UPDATED: 11:48 am PDT July 29, 2008

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif. -- A strong earthquake has shaken Los Angeles.
The quake was measured at magnitude 5.6


Live Video

San Bernardino Quake - The USGS says a 3.1 magnitude temblor registered at 5:04 a.m. Tuesday, 10 miles northeast of Barstow and Interstate 15 in San Bernardino County, about 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles.

UPDATE 2:

from LAist.com:

That was a 5.8 magnitude earthquake out of the Chino Hills area that struck at 11:42 a.m., according to the USGS. It was a nice and long one too. 10 seconds? 20 seconds? (or maybe out time perspective was skewed). CBS2 on air live is reporting that there are some cell phone tower outages and a 3.8 magnitude aftershock as already occurred.

UPDATE 3:

from CNN.com:

A magnitude-5.8 earthquake has struck just east of Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake's epicenter was about 2 miles southwest of Chino Hills and about 5 miles southeast of Diamond Bar, the USGS said. The center was about 7.6 miles deep. A 5.8 quake is considered by the USGS to be "moderate," which can cause slight damage to buildings and other structures. full story

UPDATE 4:

The week: Stories and photos from July 27 - Aug. 2
San Diego Union Tribune - Aug 03, 2008
It was felt from Los Angeles to San Diego, and as far east as Las Vegas, 230 miles away. About 30 aftershocks quickly followed, the largest at 3.8...

July 27, 2008

Plate by Plate 2008, Positively Great; Project by Project’s Annual Food/Beverage Tasting Benefit Hosts Hundreds at California Science Center Downtown

Project by Project Returns to Wallis Annenberg Building at the CSC for Annual Benefit Bash

Event Report by Don Rose

(July 26, 2008 - Los Angeles CA) After years of success in hosting its signature event, in both New York City and in Los Angeles, Project by Project hosted its Sixth Annual Tasting Benefit tonight, to a large crowd of upscale professionals, foodies, VIPs and media. As they did last year, PbP featured many food and beverage booths along with an excellent silent auction, a lively live auction (someone got a guitar signed by the Rolling Stones for just a few thousand), a VIP lounge and an early private reception for VIP ticketholders.

This year, Project by Project’s partner is the Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment (CAUSE), a non-profit, non-partisan, community-based organization whose mission is to advance the political empowerment of the Asian Pacific American community.

The PbP gala once again showcased savory food and dessert delicacies prepared by talented chefs from the best restaurants in Los Angeles (such as Bashan, above), as well as samplings from premier wineries and beverage companies. My fave libation was GuS -- as in Grownup Soda -- no high fructose corn syrup, not overly sweet, refreshing carbonated taste.

The amazing dessert assortment is one of the hallmarks of the PbP soiree every year, and 2008 was no exception. Valerie featured Petit Fours, ginger toffee and square chocolate bites with a real kick (below, left). Another popular booth featured yummy cakes (below, right), including a Vietnamese green tea coffee cake and, to satisfy your dark side, chocolate cupcakes topped with chocolate frosting. Mmmmmm...




















The silent auction, like last year, featured great items, filling a room off to the side of the main party area. 2008 seemed more focused on sports memorabilia, with one of a kind items like a signed "Apology" ball from baseball legend Pete Rose (below, left) and Joe Dimaggio photos with a signature from the Yankee great (below, right).

























And there were some very cool entertainment-related items up for bid as well, like Walt Disney photos and an actual Disney check (below, left); Shrek and Donald Duck were also present (below, right, next to a Jeter jersey).























And what LA party is complete without Jack? Nicholson, that is. The Jack Pack seen here not only had film items but even featured the actor's head (see middle bottom of photo, below). Another similar collection with pics and head bust featured fellow actor Johnny Depp. There were also guitars, one signed by the Eagles, another by Willie Nelson. The PbP gala is getting a reputation for having one of the best auctions of any LA event, one of many reasons you should plan to attend in 2009. More information at http://atb.projectbyproject.org/.

July 25, 2008

AUG 2: ERIC IDLE BRINGS HIS "NOT THE MESSIAH" PRODUCTION TO HOLLYWOOD BOWL; ADAPTATION OF MONTY PYTHON FILM "LIFE OF BRIAN" SOUNDS HILARIORATORIOUS

Will Audiences Laugh A Lot As We Did For "Spamalot"?

by Don Rose

On July 24, NPR (see their great podcast archive at http://www.npr.org/) aired a wonderful interview with Eric Idle that featured an enticing overview of his latest adaptation of Monty Python material for the stage. This time, Idle has masterminded a musical masterwork entitled "Not the Messiah (He's a Very Naughty Boy)," based on the 1979 banned-in-several-nations movie "Life of Brian" (one of The LA Report's all-time favorite films).

We in LA will be lucky enough to experience this comic oratorio on August 2nd at the Hollywood Bowl. Will we be bowled over by the Bowl production, the way Broadway patrons have been by "Spamalot" (Idle's previous adaptation, based on the film "Monty Python and the Holy Grail")? Only time will tell, but note: "Not The Messiah" is not the musical that "Spamalot" was. So will we find it hilarioratorious?

I think our favorite American Idle (who calls Los Angeles home) is taking the right approach. If you're gonna nick stuff to make new creations, it's best to follow 2 rules:
1. Stick to nicking yourself, and
2. Nick your best stuff.
Idle has now done both, twice. So has fellow comic genius Mel Brooks, first with the monster hit "The Producers" and then, speaking of monsters, "Young Frankenstein." With musicals as well as investing, the trend is your friend. Some may say redoing your own work is like How to Succeed in Musicals Without Really Trying, but who can blame them; as long as it's funny, it's sure to make money.

The story in "Not The Messiah," as in "Life of Brian," revolves around a man named Brian who lives in biblical times and, tragically, is mistaken for Jesus. Of course, given the Python treatment, this tale of mistaken Messiahhood leads to comic gold. And if you know the Christ story, you kind of know how it all ends -- but then, a twist in the midst of death: the classic Idle tune "Always Look On the Bright Side of Life." Perhaps only the theme from "The Bridge on the River Kwai" contains more irresistable whistling.

One thing we know for sure about August 2nd: no one will be able to leave the Bowl without singing "Always Look On the Bright Side of Life," which Idle proudly pointed out is one of the Top Ten most requested songs at funerals. Check out a taste of "Not The Messiah" in the excellent NPR piece, and we think you'll agree that the show sounds very promising indeed.

July 24, 2008

Nike+ Human Race Hosts Kickoff Event in Hollywood; OK Go Plays Atop Montalban Theatre Marquee To Hundreds of Runners Eager for Aug 31 Human Race in LA

(July 23, 2008: Hollywood, CA) Nike hosted a free and open-to-the-public kickoff event tonight for its upcoming Nike+ Human Race that will go to over two dozen cities worldwide, with the finale on August 31, 2008 in Los Angeles. Angelenos in attendance at tonight's event were able to register onsite for the Human Race (photo 1) and entered to win cool Nike prizes (2 gym bags full of swag and 2 sets of Nike+ gear went to some lucky guests).

Then, just before the musical climax of the night came the Grand Prize Raffle: two tickets to Australia aboard The Nike+ Human Race 10K Plane, fueled by Air New Zealand (winning ticketholder in photo 2).

After the Big Raffle concluded, rock/pop quartet OK Go performed a live set atop the marquee of The Montalbán Theatre, including their hit song titled "Here It Goes Again," which won a Grammy® for Best Short Form Music Video last year. A performance inspired by the music video with 20 dancers and 20 treadmills was also staged outside, designed by celebrity choreographer Kevan Allen (who has developed work for Kylie Minogue, Duran Duran and Sir Elton John). The whole affair was like an outdoor block party, as Vine Street was shut down between Hollywood Blvd and Selma in order to accommodate all the people attending the mini-concert and treadmill performance.

MORE ABOUT THE NIKE+ HUMAN RACE

Billed as "The World’s Largest One Day Running Event," the Nike+ Human Race will bring together the power of sport and music to inspire and connect runners from every corner of the planet on August 31st. The 10k event will span multiple continents and cover 25 cities around the globe. As the last city to host its race, Los Angeles will serve as the global Nike+ Human Race grand finale starting its race at 8:31:08 PM (how apropos, and easy to remember!) and hosting a concert by Kanye West, who spoke to attendees at tonight's launch via video, urging everyone to sign up for the race in LA. Whether you run in the race or just walk, all are encouraged to be part of the Human Race on 8/31/08, especially since that is the only way to get into the "dopest" afterparty that Kanye is headlining.

If you didn't sign up at the kickoff, you can still do so (and get useful information) by going to www.nikeplus.com/humanrace. You'll literally be one in a million if you do, as a million runners are expected to participate. Not the entire human race, perhaps, but a sizeable chunk indeed.

July 22, 2008

JUL 26: PbP AT CSC: Project by Project’s Annual Tasting Benefit (Plate by Plate 2008) Returns to California Science Center

Featured Event of the Week

After years of success in hosting its signature event, in both New York City and in Los Angeles, Project by Project is thrilled to host its Sixth Annual Tasting Benefit on July 26, 2008. This year, Project by Project’s partner is the Center for Asian Americans United for Self Empowerment (CAUSE), a non-profit, non-partisan, community-based organization whose mission is to advance the political empowerment of the Asian Pacific American community.

This signature gala will once again showcase savory food and dessert delicacies prepared by talented chefs from the best restaurants in Los Angeles, as well as samplings from premiere wineries and beverage companies.

Purchase your tickets now!
$150 Pre-sale discount ends Wednesday, July 23!
Tickets will be $200 at the door.

Plate by Plate 2008 is sure to be great, so don't be late! The LA Report was very impressed with the PbP party last year, with its high caliber of food and libations, the friendly people, and the grand spacious venue. We highly recommend you attend this year.
When: Saturday, July 26, 2008. 6:00-7:00 PM VIP reception, 7:00-10:30 PM main event.
Where: Wallis Annenberg Building at the California Science Center, 700 State Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90037.

July 21, 2008

JUL 24: LA's LARGEST MIXER RETURNS TO SHRINE; GIGANTIC NETWORKING EVENT EXPECTS OVER 3000 ATTENDEES, OVER 250 EXHIBITORS (A TLR TOP TEN ANNUAL EVENT)

Featured Event of the Week

The 10th Annual L.A.'s Largest Mixer is this Thursday, and if you don't yet have a ticket, drop everything and get one now. (I, for one, cannot wait, since this is one of The LA Report's Top Ten annual events!) July 24 at the Shrine Auditorium Expo Center, Dave Linden and his team bring this amazing annual event back to LA (it now has similar fests in Las Vegas, the Inland Empire and Orange County), combining the networking power of 30 L.A. area chambers of commerce and business organizations with the best networkers from all over Southern California, providing you with the ultimate business networking experience. If you go to only ONE networking event this year, make sure it is this one.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS:

1. Over 3000 Attendees: Mix and mingle with hundreds and hundreds of business professionals from around Southern California. Don't forget to bring lots of business cards!
2. Visit over 250 Exhibitor Booths: From small to large companies and almost every industry in between, visit the exhibitors of the L.A. Mixer on both levels of the Shrine Auditorium Expo Center.
3. TalkRadio 790 KABC Live Broadcast: Check out KABC Radio's Al Rantel broadcasting live starting at 7 p.m.
4. Mix & Mingle in the Diamonds & Cream Lounge: Network in the "Official Networking Lounge of the LA Mixer" -- sponsored by Diamonds & Cream Events! A jazz bar-type lounge, this will be a great place to grab a drink while mixing and mingling with potential clients.
5. Hotel Stay Giveaways: Drop your business card at our admissions area for a chance to win one of four fantastic getaways!
6. Learn About the Benefits of Being a Chamber Member: Visit the booths of our participating 30 chambers and business organizations located throughout the event to learn how becoming a member can make your business grow.

Become an attendee today by registering online: http://www.largestmixer.com/lamixer/tickets.php

ADMISSION: $20 (No checks.)

L.A.'s Largest Mixer X. Thursday, July 24, 2008. 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Shrine Auditorium, 700 W. 32nd St., Los Angeles, CA 90007, Parking: $5. Visit www.lamixer.com or call 323.230.5656 for more information. Tell them The LA Report sent you. (Event posted by Don Rose.)

July 20, 2008

TWAIN AND OBAMA: SATIRE RULES THE MAGAZINE COVERS (FROM TLR's "IT'S ALL CONNECTED" DEPT.)

Commentary by Don Rose

Holy coincidence, Batman! What are the odds that the master of satire, Mark Twain, would be featured on a popular magazine's cover this past week (TIME) while an example of controversial satire graces the cover of another popular magazine (The New Yorker - which of course is even MORE popular now, at least with supporters of the Freedom of Speech).

But riddle me this: perhaps this is NOT a coincidence, but rather indicates that critical thinking via satirical content is coming back into vogue. (Hear that, Vogue? Get with it with your covers, baby! Doncha wanna increase sales, too?)

Yes, dear reader, I believe that maybe, just maybe, we as a people are smarter than the MainStream Media makes us out to be. After all, one thing we know for sure about next January is that our next President will be coming into office direct from that intellectual body known as the Senate, for the first time since John F. Kennedy. If Obama wins, his Kennedyesque qualities (young, smart, handsome, 2 young kids) means that comparisons to JFK's Camelot will come a lot out of MSM mouths. And hey, there's a popular musical currently on Broadway called Spamalot. Coincidence?

See... it's all connected.

Of course, satire on magazine covers is nothing new. And you never know when readers will, or won't, get offended by attempted humor. For example, this Bush cover. Now, why didn't this get people upset at People?

July 19, 2008

THE JUSTICE BALL RETURNS TO "THE LOT" FOR ANNUAL EVENT BENEFITING BET TZEDEK; HEADLINING BAND "THE PSYCHEDELIC FURS" ROCKS NEARLY 4000 PARTYGOERS

Event Report by Don Rose


(July 19, 2008 - West Hollywood, CA) Touted as one of the "Top 10 Coolest Things To Do In July" by Los Angeles Magazine, The Justice Ball® proved once again to be THE party of the summer, featuring (as they always do) a legendary pop/rock band -- performing for over 3700 enthusiastic revelers this year -- plus excellent cuisine, VIP amenities, chances to win super items in the Silent Auction and the Opportunity Drawing, and more.

The 2008 headline act was The Psychedelic Furs! The Furs (photo, left) were in fine form, performing all of their big hits from their 80's post-punk, new wave days, including chart-topping singles like "Love My Way," "Heaven" and the iconic "Pretty In Pink," which we all know and love from the legendary 1986 John Hughes film.

All proceeds from The Justice Ball went, as always, to a great charity called Bet Tzedek - The House of Justice. Bet Tzedek is one of the nation’s premiere legal services organizations, providing free assistance to more than 10,000 people of every racial and religious background every year. Bet Tzedek makes a crucial difference in the lives of the most vulnerable members of our Los Angeles community. As a leading poverty law center, Bet Tzedek’s mission is to pursue equal justice for ALL low-income Angelenos, protecting the legal rights of the poor and forging new pathways out of poverty.

All guests got to indulge in a great Silent Auction, featuring several sections chock full of a wide variety of items, with many great deals to be had (and all for a great cause to boot). The sports section was especially popular, including many LA-related framed items -- like LA Dodgers photos, a John Wooden memento collection (photo, below left), "Jewish Baseball Legends" such as Dodger great Sandy Koufax (photo above) and much more.
VIPs at the party (including actress, comedienne and all-around super gal Alison Arngrim) enjoyed an early cocktail reception with hosted bar and hors d’oeuvres, plus all-night access to an exclusive VIP Lounge, a hosted Vodka Bar, free on-site parking and swag bags.

Also included in everyone's Justice Ball admission were delicious desserts and coffee, a popular Casino section (photo, above right), the amazing walkaround close-up magician Paul Fegen (photo, left), and the hit area of the party -- the Karaoke Lounge, where singers both good and bad entertained the enthusiastic crowd. Overall, The Justice Ball 2008 was another big hit. A funner summer soiree is hard to find.

This annual benefit is highly recommended by The LA Report, so make sure to get your tickets early in 2009. Every year, nearly 4000 young professionals gather at The Justice Ball®. It's a phenomenal evening of music, dance, food and fun that has grown to become one of the premiere events of the summer. Top musical entertainment has performed in front of sold out crowds since the event’s inception in 1997, including The Go-Go's, The B-52's, The Violent Femmes and The Psychedelic Furs. You can keep tabs on Justice Ball news via
MYSPACE.COM or visit their main website at www.thejusticeball.org.

JUL 20: BICYCLE FILM FESTIVAL THROWS ALL-DAY STREET PARTY IN HOLLYWOOD

from the website PPOLnews.com:

"The International Bicycle Film Festival continues its sold-out string of movie screenings, after-parties, and bicycle-themed street happenings this weekend in Hollywood, and next weekend in San Francisco. These events put the 2008 Festival about a quarter of the way through it's seventeen global stops. Starting in New York City, and winding it's way through the United States, Japan, Europe and more, the eighth annual Bicycle Film Festival has preceded and fueled the current urban cycling craze. Movies feature in the festival include track, road, mountain and BMX films, as well as films that feature cycling as a lifestyle. The showings and audiences are wide and varied, with one common denominator - the bicycle. ... The Los Angeles visit of the festival kicked off ... with a Bikes Rock! party held at "A Club Called Rhonda" on Hollywood Boulevard. ... At the end of each night is an afterparty at a bike-friendly club in LA, and Sunday features an all-day street party at Heliotrope and Melrose, in front of World-Famous urban bike shop Orange 20."

www.bicyclefilmfestival.com

JUL 19: EXTRAVAGANZA FOR THE SENSES RETURNS TO FOX; ANNUAL CULINARY EVENT RAISES MONEY FOR SABAN FREE CLINIC; TIX STILL AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR


July 18, 2008

JUL 18: SUMMER MASH LA BRINGS MASHABLE.COM PARTY TOUR TO RUBICON IN SANTA MONICA (COOL EVENT OF THE DAY)

SummerMash LA is The LA Report's COOL EVENT OF THE DAY for July 18, 2008...

...and with good reason! It will be a blast and a half. Catering by renowned PartyCharlie, a great location (the Rubicon Project HQ in Santa Monica, a huge office space with plenty of room for digerati partying both inside and on their patio), and no work tomorrow. Taking place the day after the amazing Twiistup 4 (review coming shortly), SummerMash LA will be the perfect way to keep the SocialMedia-Tech-Web2.0-Party vibe going. All the cool kids will be there.

Mashable.com (the number one blog in the area of Web 2.0 and social media) takes their Summer Mash show on the road for their U.S. Summer Tour, and stop number three is Los Angeles (actually, Santa Monica, but who's GPSing). This is Mashable’s third time in L.A. so they admit having some big shoes to fill, as past times have produced great stories. Paparazzi be warned: celebrities will be on hand, including Mashable's own Pete Cashmore, Adam Hirsch and Karen Hartline. Food, drinks and good times are on the agenda as well, and your name is on the guest list. Just go to http://summermashla.eventbrite.com/ for details and to reserve your spot!

July 15, 2008

THE WHO's ROGER DALTREY: QUIPS QUOTED FROM AP INTERVIEW; VH1 ROCK HONORS TRIBUTE TO THE WHO AIRS JUL 17 IN 2-HOUR SHOW TAPED AT UCLA's PAULEY PAVILION

Sfgate.com has a fine AP article about The Who, centered around singer Roger Daltrey (see here). The occasion: VH1's recent Rock Honors tribute to The Who, which featured not only musical icons Daltrey and guitar shredmaster extraordinaire Pete Townshend, but also Pearl Jam, The Flaming Lips, Incubus, Foo Fighters, and that Jack Black - Kyle Gass dynamic duo Tenacious D. VH1 Rock Honors, taped live at UCLA Pauley Pavilion last Saturday, airs this Thursday July 17 in a two-hour special.

The AP story features some choice Daltrey quotes. For example, he offered his opinion that Jack Black "should've been a rock star":

"When you look at Jack Black, whatever he's doing ... it just always reminds me of that first initial feeling I had when I heard Elvis Presley singing 'Heartbreak Hotel,'" Daltrey said, delivering a guttural growl. "Haah! What's that noise! Graaaawr! Yeah, just that enthusiasm."

On Daltrey's late bandmates, drummer Keith Moon and bass player John Entwistle:

"We're left with ... the way they played, the way we reacted to the way they played. So that kind of stays in our subconscious forever ... But the communication on the sublevel between Pete and I is the same as ever. ... And that's the bit that I get off on. Not particularly the formatted stuff that's written. It's just when it flies off at an angle and you're jamming. Because when it comes out of the air, it's wonderful, man."

On how The Who's tunes still hold up:

"You listen to 'Won't Get Fooled Again,' it still could be a new band ... It's almost as old as The Platters. They still sound great, but it sounds dated. There are still young bands making our kinds of music. And our music holds up well with those young bands."

Regarding this year's U.S. election, Barack Obama is the "obvious winner" to Roger:

"Let's just hope to God he wins... Let's be honest, with the standing in the rest of the world of America today, with what George Bush has done to your country, it is inconceivable to me that Americans would vote in another Republican. It would be kind of really, really weird if they win again. You just sometimes wonder, what if, just what if (John) McCain did win. The signals that would send to the rest of the world!"

The singer/actor also discussed (or is it dissed) music listening technology. Daltrey disses digital and misses vinyl's heyday:

"They've destroyed the form, as soon's it went digital. The CD was a confidence trick... It wasn't just music that people used to buy, it was a total art form... I think that's what people like. They like it personal. They like vinyl because if you scratch vinyl, it'll be scratched, but it'll be your scratch. It will only be on your record... Now for people, (music) is just not a big part of their lives. It's like background noise. There's just so much else going on, isn't there?"

July 14, 2008

JUL 18: BEATLES INSIDER KEN MANSFIELD DISCUSSES HIS LIFE WITH THE FAB FOUR; FREE EVENT INCLUDES "THE BACKBEATS" TRIBUTE BAND, BOOK SIGNING, VIDEO DOC

Former Beatles Label Manager Ken Mansfield will speak and sign his book at Rolling Hills Covenant Church after "The Backbeats" band opens the event with live Beatles tunes

It sure is shaping up to be one of the biggest weeks ever for SoCal Beatle activities. There was Sir George Martin taking part in a look back at the making of Sgt. Pepper last Friday at USC, and the Grammy Foundation's Starry Night gala in his honor on Saturday. The Museum of Making Music in Carlsbad currently has an exhibit focusing on Beatles recordings. Now, The LA Report has learned (via KRTH 101.1 FM) that on Friday, July 18 at 7 p.m., Rolling Hills Covenant Church (RHCC) will host a special event in their Worship Center, entitled “The Beatles, the Bible and Beyond: A Long and Winding Road,” featuring Ken Mansfield, Apple Records label manager for the world-renowned rock band. Mansfield will speak authoritatively about the music business of the sixties and his life touring with the Fab Four.

Mansfield became the Beatles’ personal liaison between the U.K. and the U.S. – an association that thrust him into a world that changed his life forever. Mansfield will share his personal journey of being the record executive for the Beatles and working side by side with them in their rise to stratospheric stardom.

This free event will consist of a beautifully produced 20-minute video documentary on the Beatles and Mansfield's life, his personal testimony of his experience, and a Q&A session. A Beatles tribute band, “The BackBeats,” will open the evening by playing some Beatles crowd-pleasing favorites. Following the event, Mansfield will sign copies of his book, The Beatles, The Bible and Bodega Bay (Broadman & Holman), which will be available for purchase. Dessert will be served at the conclusion.

Download promotional flyer
Listen to K-Earth 101 radio spot here

The Beatles, the Bible and Beyond. July 18, 7-9:30 pm, Rolling Hills Covenant Church, Worship Center, Main Campus, 2222 Palos Verdes Drive North, Rolling Hills Estates CA 90274. Email: webmail@rhcc.net. Telephone: 310.519.9406. Organizer: Andy Noch (anoch@rhcc.net).

July 13, 2008

JUL 13: ONE BBQ CLOSES, ANOTHER OPENS; TOMMYRAYS SAYS GOODBYE IN STUDIO CITY, WHILE POMONA BBQ HAS "BRAVO" GRAND OPENING

At noon on July 13, there will be a high profile restaurant opening as Chef Brian from the Bravo TV show "Top Chef" opens his new eatery MATCH BBQ and Grill with, what else, a BBQ kickoff event. MATCH BBQ and Grill, 50 Rio Rancho Road, Pomona.

Alas, today also marks the last day for an excellent BBQ restaurant in Studio City called TommyRays. Here is the email they sent out:

We are sorry to announce that Tommy Rays is closing at 4PM on July 13th after two years in business. We have appreciated the patronage of all customers for the last two years especially the Studio City residents and regulars. The good news is that we have sold the business to a local restauranteur. In about 2-3 months, a new restaurant will open for all of us and the neighborhood to enjoy. As good neighbors, we wanted to make sure everyone knew of the change ..... Thanks again for your support and friendship.
---Tommy Rays
Ray Franco, Gary Blackwell, and Tommy LeVasseur.

July 12, 2008

JUL 12: VH1 ROCK HONORS & STARRY NIGHT GALA: MUSICAL ROYALTY DESCENDS ON LOS ANGELES IN GREATEST 1 DAY LINEUP OF ROCK/POP PERFORMANCES IN LA HISTORY

LA music fans, today is your lucky day. The number of A-list rock/pop bands playing on this date could be the greatest single-day collection in Los Angeles history.

For starters, The Who will get their due. VH1 is dedicating their annual tributefest to the seminal UK rock band. VH1 pays homage to the band in the network's third annual "VH1 Rock Honors" -- a celebration of artists who now represent the pinnacle of rock music. As a result of The Who's revolutionary influence on rock music, this will be the first "VH1 Rock Honors" that salutes just one band.

The event tapes in Los Angeles today at Pauley Pavilion on the UCLA campus (301 Westwood Plaza). Starting around 8pm, the lineup of bands paying their musical respects is incredible: PEARL JAM, FOO FIGHTERS, THE FLAMING LIPS, TENACIOUS D, INCUBUS and THE WHO themselves are all scheduled to be there. The "VH1 Rock Honors" show will then premiere July 17 at 9pm on VH1, VH1 Classic and MHD. The Who will be celebrated with a two hour tribute that will salute their music and lasting impact. Their influence will be felt through spoken tributes, filmed packages and performances. More info on the VH1 website.

But that's not all, folks. There is ANOTHER incredible musical event that takes place today, July 12th, as the Grammy Foundation presents their annual Starry Night gala starting at 6pm on the USC campus (McCarthy Quad). The tribute dinner and concert honors famed Beatles producer George Martin, with an amazing roster of musical legends set to perform, including America (the other huge band that Sir George produced), Tom Jones, Jimmy Webb (singer/songwriter extraordinaire), Burt Bacharach, Michael McDonald, Natalie Cole, Jeff Beck and more. VIP arrivals begin at 6pm, with dinner at 730, followed by award presentation and performances around 9pm.

I know some of you may be asking: can I do both events? Catch all of these stellar acts? Well, that may be tough to do, since the concert times are not far apart. If you simply must try, and you somehow got tix to both events, we suggest going to UCLA first for the first few VH1 Rock Honors bands starting at 8pm, then hightail it to USC since that musical show will probably not start until 915 or 930 -- and with so many acts scheduled to pay tribute to George Martin, you could still catch quite a few. But the better advice is to pick only one event. Tickets to VH1 Rock Honors were still for sale on Craigslist as of Saturday afternoon, and Starry Night is almost certainly the tougher ticket to obtain at this point. If you like your rock/pop a little harder edged, and want a better chance of getting a last minute ticket, the VH1 event seems the one to choose. (Perhaps Pauley Pavilion patrons can possibly provide a pass for purchase? Perfect!)

July 11, 2008

JUL 11-12: SIR GEORGE MARTIN WEEKEND AT USC; MAKING-OF SGT PEPPER PRESENTATION FRIDAY, STARRY NIGHT GALA SATURDAY

The fifth Beatle was not Murray the K, it was their producer, Sir George Martin. The legendary musical genius (Martin, not Murray) will be at USC today July 11, at Bovard Auditorium, where a multimedia presentation is scheduled to take place on the making of the classic (some say best of all time) Sgt. Pepper album.

Then, tomorrow July 12th, the Grammy Foundation presents their annual Starry Night gala. The tribute dinner and concert honors, you guessed it, George Martin, with many musical celebs set to attend and perform, including Tom Jones (I wonder what Beatle song he might sing? Perhaps "My Pants Too Tight"? Wait, did the Beatles do that one?). Of course, everyone is wondering whether Paul and/or Ringo might show up. Especially Ringo, since he lives in LA. The LA Report does not know at this time, but if you get a ticket and go, please let us know.

Finally, let's hope Chris Carter can get Sir George live or on tape for his always-entertaining Sunday morning radio show, Breakfast with the Beatles. (The show is currently celebrating its 25th year on the LA airwaves.) KLOS 95.5 FM, Sundays 9am to noon.

For more information on both live George Martin events at USC, see this BMI webpage:
http://www.bmi.com/news/entry/536880

JUL 18: THAT BEATLES SOUND - EXHIBIT RECEPTION AT MUSEUM OF MAKING MUSIC

On July 18 at 7 PM, the Museum of Making Music in Carlsbad, California will host a very special exhibition celebration reception with Kevin Ryan and Brian Kehew, co-authors of the comprehensive tome Recording the Beatles, as the Museum celebrates their special exhibition "That Beatles Sound: Recording @ Abbey Road," which highlights the technology and equipment behind the Fab Four's era-altering music.

Tickets for this event are $10; $7 for students and FREE for museum members (see below). Non-members can purchase tickets by calling (760) 438-5996, ext. 212. Members can call Jillian Jepsen at (760) 438-5996, ext. 212 to make your FREE reservation for this event.

The exhibition samples behind-the-scenes artifacts from daily life at Abbey Road during the Beatles era. Items represented range from tape recorders, microphones and speakers to session documents from the 1960s. Click to learn more about the exhibition. Not a member yet? Click here to JOIN TODAY!

MORE JULY BEATLES NEWS: the Fabs' legendary producer, Sir George Martin, will be at USC July 11; a multimedia presentation is scheduled to take place on the making of the Sgt. Pepper album. Then, July 12th is the Grammy organization's Starry Night gala honoring Mr. Martin, with many musical celebs set to attend and perform. http://www.usc.edu/

July 8, 2008

JUL 10: PMA LA's ANNUAL SCHMOOZE-A-RAMA GETS SIMPSONIZED FOR 2008 AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

Here is the scoop on this year's Schmooze-A-Rama, an always-excellent event for marketing and promotion professionals produced annually by PMA LA (the Promotion Marketing Association of Los Angeles):

Hear why & how smart brands are teaming up with The Simpsons. Get the inside scoop why America's favorite family from Springfield has been a key player in several of the most successful marketing campaigns in the last 15 years -an amazing success story told by the people behind the Simpsons campaign. Then eat, drink & mingle at the industry's top annual networking party, Schmooze-A-Rama! After you are all 'Simpsonized', we’ll take you to Krustyland - for a ride at Universal’s hottest new attraction … Grab your milk bottle and get ready to scream, laugh and schmooze!

AGENDA:
5:45 PM (SHARP) - Welcome
6:10 PM - Anatomy of a Super REGGIE - Simpsons/7-Eleven - Rita Drucker, SVP Feature Film Promotions, Twentieth Century Fox Feature Film - Bonnie Carlson, President, PMA - Tom Baer, SVP Agency & Client Services, Launch Creative Marketing
6:30 PM - Simpsons Movie Partnerships - Rachel Spiegelman, VP Marketing, The Pitch Agency (Burger King)
6:50 PM - Break
7:05 PM - Sponsor Presentation by TellX
7:25 - 7:50 PM - Fox/Universal Relationship - The Simpsons Ride - Howard Nelson, Vice President Worldwide Promotion, Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising - Donna Mirus Bates, VP Brand Marketing, Universal Orlando Resort
8:00 - 10:00 PM - Schmooze-A-Rama®, The Simpsons Ride, Cocktails and Hors d'oeuvres

COST: PMA Members: $195 ; Additional PMA Member: $175; Non-Members: $255.

For more info, please visit this PMA webpage: https://www.pmalink.org/shop/pmala_0710.aspx

July 7, 2008

"UNDERSTANDING AGING" CONFERENCE BRINGS RESEARCHERS AND POLICYMAKERS TO UCLA TO DISCUSS STRATEGIES FOR INCREASING HUMAN LIFESPAN & DELAYING "OLD AGE"

Event Report by Don Rose

From June 27 to 29, 2008, researchers, policymakers and experts in the area of extending lifespan gathered to participate in the scientific conference "Understanding Aging: Biomedical and Bioengineering Approaches," held at UCLA. The conference included a free symposium for the general public on June 27th focused on public policy implications of successfully postponing aging. The scientific conference, on June 28th and 29th, focused on the science and technology of aging and its postponement.

Many illustrious speakers presented stimulating talks, spotlighting state of the art research into how science is attacking the process of aging as if it is a disease itself. This seemed to be the main overarching point of the conference. Imagine if the "natural process of aging" is in fact not something we have to accept as inevitable, but rather a disease, distinct from diseases like cancer that are associated with advancing age. A model of aging as a disease with causative conditions would mean there are potential treatments or even cures. In other words, if growing old, on a cellular level, is a disease, then it may eventually be mitigated or eliminated with proper treatment or prevention strategies.

This exciting proposition seemed to be the undercurrent of the entire conference, as the talks presented at the conference showed over and over again how researchers are isolating the various mechanisms that cause cells to die or develop problems, and what is being done to correct such problems. The promise is that if enough of these cellular self-destruction mechanisms can be identified and treated, the higher-level phenomenon we call aging may be delayed or eventually eliminated. The possibilities, of course, are mind-boggling. Luckily, the conference also included many lively break periods during which we could compare notes with fellow attendees and process all the information being presented. Each day of the scientific portion of the conference also included a reception period that featured excellent posters, presenting even more research that complemented and expanded on material covered in the main talks.

The organizers of the Aging 2008 conference were Aubrey de Grey (photo), Irina Conboy and Amy Wagers. Dr. de Grey was the driving force behind the weekend gathering, keeping the proceedings on schedule and generously providing each attendee with a free copy of his ambitious, thought-provoking book, "Ending Aging." His work has faced some controversy during the past few years, but it struck me as extremely exciting and has the potential to not only save or extend the lives of millions of people in the coming decades, but also save governments billions by postponing the ravages of aging. After all, it is illness that costs money to treat, not the number of years one has been alive on Earth. If age-related illness can be postponed years into the future, or if the period of illness can be compressed into a short period at the very end of life, the potential benefits could be enormous.

Many themes and ideas came across during the three stimulating days of the conference. Here are just a few that came up again and again:

Cancer and Life Extension: two sides of the coin of life. In life extension, one goal is to find out why cells seemed programmed to die (after a few dozen divisions, cells reach the "Hayflick limit" and can no longer divide), and find ways to alter our programming so that cells can divide for longer periods of time, or even forever. However, cancer cells already exhibit this property. Hence, solving one problem (programmed cell death) may cause another (unchecked cancerous growth). Yet this also presents a great opportunity; since they are so interrelated, solving one of these broad challenges may lead to a solution to the other.

The Immune System and Cancer: one researcher showed White Blood Cells attacking and killing cancer cells, and showed evidence of how seasonal changes and climate affects the ability of our immune systems to combat cancer (greater incidence of cancer in winter months as you move away from the equator). The implication: healthy immune systems should in theory be able to stave off cancer as it does colds and flu. One may then wonder if perhaps a cancer vaccine is in our future.

Telomeres and Telomerase: one of the reasons researchers think cells stop dividing is because the ends of our chromosomes ("extra" DNA material known as telomeres) grow shorter with each division, like a cigarette shortening as it burns. Finding ways to keep telomeres long may solve this problem, and the enzyme telomerase does just that. Hence, telomerase therapy may be one piece of the aging-solution puzzle.

Learn From Immortals: one poster discussed fish that do not seem to age. Why does this occur? If we can identify the mechanisms at work in such fish, and other creatures that exhibit little or no aging, we may be able to replicate this desirable trait in us.

Calorie Restriction: also known as CR, this strategy has been shown to dramatically increase lifespan in rats, and CR does have many followers of the human variety. However, as one attendee said to me, CR may not be the best strategy to follow. After all, would you want to live forever in a state of perpetual hunger and irritability? Let alone possible health detriments that may outweigh the long-life benefits.

Use Evolution: the process of natural selection may be a blind watchmaker, but it is also very wise. Presumably, aging mechanisms evolved for a reason (for example, shortened telomeres that cause cell death also help prevent cancerous growths). Using the logic of evolution may help researchers decide where to look for the mechanisms that cause aging -- and to develop methods to counteract them.

This is just the tip of the iceberg of what was covered, and I left the conference fully stimulated and excited, eager to learn more, and to apply what was learned to my own life (where possible). I recommend this conference highly, although the first day was best for those folks (including yours truly) whose scientific knowledge of gerontology, biology and chemistry is not at the intermediate-to-expert level. Certainly I would have gotten even more out of the conference had my knowledge been greater, but in the age of the Internet, that can always be improved, and I am excited to embark on that journey. The LA Report encourages you to do so as well. After all, who doesn't want to Live Long and Prosper?

Overall, the Aging 2008 conference was a big success. Dr. de Grey and all the volunteers deserve kudos for their hard work, as well as their helpfulness and enthusiasm. One of the volunteers said that video of various portions of this year's conference will eventually be put online, so those of you who could not be there personally can soon be there virtually.

If you would like to learn more about the ending aging movement, life extension and related topics, here are some websites to explore:

www.mfoundation.org - Homepage of the Methuselah Foundation.
MFoundation-The SENS Platform - This “engineering” approach forms the broad basis for Strategies for Engineered Negligible Senescence (SENS), a detailed plan for curing human aging.
The Mprize-Welcome to the Methuselah Mouse Prize!
Aging 2008 and Aubrey de Grey at Wired
Unofficial Video From Aging 2008
www.lef.org - A related organization, the Life Extension Foundation.

July 6, 2008

JUL 6: ROYAL/T & EENIE MEENIE RECORDS PRESENT INSTANT COUTURE EVENT AT CULVER CITY'S ECLECTIC ART SPACE; JEAN PAUL YAMAMOTO BAND MEMBERS TO APPEAR

Do you like performances? Do you like art? Do you like performance art? Do you like a lot of questions? Okay, skip that last one, but DON'T skip INSTANT COUTURE at Royal/T today, Sunday July 6. Not only will it be fun and a half, but there ain't much else going on today, except for the last day of the Anime Expo downtown at the LA Convention Center. And Royal/T is in Culver City, with much easier parking, plus this event is FREE, open to the public.

So get thee to Royal/T. Even if there were no special event there today, you should go and check out Culver City's most eclectic "artery" (art and eatery in one); the place is cool with multiple areas and activities to explore, including refreshments and servers dressed in French Maid outfits. Free street parking, or park in the lot behind Royal/T.

Here is the official release:

Royal/T and eenie meenie records present
"Instant Couture - Improvising Sewing" by Jean Paul Yamamoto. Sunday, July 6th, 3pm -5pm


Royal/T and eenie meenie records present a special appearance by the members of the L.A. based band, Jean Paul Yamamoto. The group was started by fashion designer/artist/musician Lun*na Menoh, who also designed the adorable maid outfits worn by Royal/T's servers, the uniforms at the opening party for the Takashi Murakami exhibition at MOCA and has a dress in the permanent collection of the Victoria & Albert museum in London. Jean Paul Yamamoto is known for combining high fashion, art performance and rock n' roll theatrics.

For this special event Jean Paul Yamamoto will do a two-hour fashion, costume and improvised sewing performance at Royal/T. During this lively show, Jean Paul Yamamoto will design and make 12 one-of-a-kind T-shirts (100% white cotton) that will be sold for $50 each (cash only).

If you would like to have a one-of-a-kind shirt made, please come early to have your name on the list. Due to time constraints there will be a limit of only 12 T-shirts completed during the art performance.

Royal/T is located at 8910 Washington Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232. Event today: 3-5pm. Regular hours: 10am - 6pm (Tue- Sun). http://www.royal-t.org . Event Admission: Free, and there will be no reservations either through phone or e-mail for this specific event. If street parking is not available, there is free 2 hour parking in the Ince lot or the Toyota/Honda Miller car dealership (9290 Culver Blvd) between Culver Blvd and Washington Blvd. More Info: eenie meenie records: http://www.eeniemeenie.com... Jean Paul Yamamoto: http://www.myspace.com/jeanpaulyamamoto .

July 3, 2008

BERRY ELEGANCE: THE PERFECT SWEET TOUCH FOR YOUR FOURTH OF JULY

Food Review by Don Rose

One of our favorite stores in all of Southern California is Berry Elegance, which offers chocolate dipped strawberries, cookies, pretzel, rice crispy treats and just about anything else you could think of. In order to have the sweetest July 4th, The LA Report recommends their choco-riffic products; they’re worth every calorie filled bite!

The BE offerings come in milk, dark, and white chocolate, and of course all three can be mixed. The Studio City store, which opened in 2006, recently underwent a makeover thanks to the new A&E show "WE MEAN BUSINESS." The founders of the company, Amy Stipa and Todd Jones, worked side by side with the original apprentice, Bill Rancic, as well as design expert Peter Gursky and technology expert Katie Linendoll. The product hasn't changed (it still is the creme de la creme -- pun intended), but now the store looks as good as their berries and other treats taste.

Berry Elegance shared the sweetness of their grand reopening with a celebration on July 1, 2008. Guests enjoyed free samples, discounts and other surprises. But you can enjoy the same delicious products anytime, anywhere, by placing an internet order on their website, http://www.berryelegance.com/.

Berry Elegance is the leading provider of chocolate covered strawberries and other chocolate dipped goodies serving the greater Los Angeles area and the rest of the country via their website BerryElegance.com. The BE brand has quickly become one of the most sought after gifts for some of the biggest names in Hollywood including Justin Timberlake, Megan Fox, Ryan Seacrest, Chelsea Handler, Steven Speilberg and many more. Their LA shop is located at 12265 Ventura Blvd #105, Studio City, CA, 91604. Telephone: 818.762.4797. Not only do they deliver in Los Angeles (they have a special webpage just for LA orders), but they deliver nationwide as well. (To get a delectable collection like the one shown in the photo above, the 12 berry box is $49.95, and the 9 berry box is $37.95.) Visit their sweet website to see all their offerings: www.berryelegance.com. Tell them The LA Report sent you.

JUL 4: TWILIGHT ZONE MARATHON CONTINUES ON SCI FI CHANNEL; MUST SEE TZ TV INCLUDES CLASSIC EPISODES "TO SERVE MAN", "THE HOWLING MAN" AND MANY MORE

What do Robert Redford, William Shatner, Burt Reynolds, Dennis Hopper, Burgess Meredith, Jack Klugman, Peter Falk, Billy Mumy, Mickey Rooney, Lee Marvin, Robert Duvall and Dean Stockwell have in common? No, they are not all attending an LA autograph show this weekend -- they are all classic actors who starred in episodes of the greatest TV anthology series in the history of the medium: Rod Serling's "The Twilight Zone". And the Sci Fi Channel puts on a marathon of these amazing shows every now and then, usually on or near holidays. And guess what: there is a marathon going on for the holiday weekend, which continues all day and night July 4th, 2008!

Below is a
schedule for you -- all times shown are Pacific time. (If you have never seen "To Serve Man," don't miss this classic episode, which has one of the best twist endings ever in a series known for its many surprising summarizing scenes.)

SCI FI CHANNEL Jul. 4, 2008

NOW PLAYING TWILIGHT ZONE, THE
TIME
PROGRAM
TITLE
STEREO
CC
3:00 AM
PAID PROGRAMMING



5:00 AM
STOPOVER IN A QUIET TOWN


5:30 AM
THE SHELTER


6:00 AM
THE CHASER


6:30 AM
NERVOUS MAN IN A FOUR DOLLAR ROOM


7:00 AM
TO SERVE MAN

7:30 AM
THE WHOLE TRUTH

8:00 AM
A MAN IN THE BOTTLE


8:30 AM
WILL THE REAL MARTIAN PLEASE STAND UP?


9:00 PM
LONG DISTANCE CALL


9:30 PM
THE ODYSSEY OF FLIGHT 33

10:00 AM
KING NINE WILL NOT RETURN

10:30 AM
TWENTY-TWO


11:00 AM
A NICE PLACE TO VISIT


11:30 AM
A MOST UNUSUAL CAMERA


12:00 PM
MR. BEVIS

12:30 PM
THE HOWLING MAN


1:00 PM
MIRROR IMAGE

1:30 PM
THE HITCH-HIKER

2:00 PM
FIVE CHARACTERS IN SEARCH OF AN EXIT


2:30 PM
THE MIDNIGHT SUN


3:00 PM
SHOWDOWN WITH RANCE MCGREW

3:30 PM
THE LAST NIGHT OF A JOCKEY

4:00 PM
IT'S A GOOD LIFE


4:30 PM
ONCE UPON A TIME


5:00 PM
A PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS


5:30 PM
TWO


6:00 PM
THE PURPLE TESTAMENT


6:30 PM
THE MIRROR


7:00 PM
CAVENDER IS COMING

7:30 PM
THE PRIME MOVERS


8:00 PM
A PASSAGE FOR TRUMPET

8:30 PM
THE LONELY

9:00 AM
A HUNDRED YARDS OVER THE RIM


9:30 AM
THE RIP VAN WINKLE CAPER

10:00 PM
DEATH SHIP

11:00 PM
OF LATE I THINK OF CLIFFORDVILLE

12:00 AM
PRINTER'S DEVIL


1:00 AM
MUTE

2:00 AM
ON THURSDAY WE LEAVE FOR HOME