OCT 2-4: AMERICAN WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Returns With 3-Day Extravaganza (Featured Event)

Posted by Don Rose

The American Wine & Food Festival returns this weekend and promises to be better than ever. Three straight days of the very best in food, fun and festive entertaining enjoyment. As in previous years, the main event is Saturday night, but the days before and after will be stellar as well. AWFF is arguably the best annual wine and food event in Los Angeles, so we heartily recommend you attend... and enjoy! Details on each day follow below. For more information, see the official AWFF website at http://www.awff.org.

Red Hot Friday Kickoff Celebration

Date: Friday, October 2, 2009 - 7 p.m.
Location: Voyeur - "LA's new, exclusive nightlife destination"
7969 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles (valet parking)

Designed to whet the appetites of Festival first-timers and alums alike, this party offers chic eats by Wolfgang Puck Catering paired with terrific wines and innovative libations by Ultimat Vodka and Beam Global Spirits & Wines - all set to the sounds of a DJ playing your favorite music. The intimate lounge setting is perfect for mingling with philanthropists and foodies who are newcomers and well-knowns on the Los Angeles scene. Red Hot Kickoff Celebration tickets are available for $150 per person.

Saturday Evening American Wine & Food Festival

Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 - 5-11 p.m.
*5:00 PM Wolfgang Puck VIP Cooking Demonstration
*VIP entrance available only with tickets purchased through Festival Patron and MasterCard® promotions. (contact 1-800-964-4742 or offers@octagon.com)
6:00 PM Festival Opens
Location: Universal Studios Backlot
3900 Lankersheim Blvd., Gate 3, Universal City, CA

Staged against the backdrop of movie sets, the signature Saturday night event returns, once again, to Universal Studios Backlot. As dusk falls, a spectacularly lit movie set provides the stage for a culinary scene like none other: An unrivaled epicurean feast prepared by world-renowned chefs, superb libations including fine wines and smooth spirits, and a silent auction filled with luxury items - all set to swinging sounds of live bands. Cap the night off in “The Lounge” – an after-hours retreat featuring sparkling wines from the Loire Valley Region of France and whimsical desserts by Pastry Chefs Francois Payard and Spago's Sherry Yard. Kick back in cozy niches under the stars or dance the night away to live bands. Saturday American Wine & Food Festival tickets are available for $300 per person online or $350 at the door. Table reservations are available from $3,500.

Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner

Date: Sunday, October 4, 2009 - 6:00 p.m.
Location: Spago Beverly Hills
176 N Canon Dr., Beverly Hills, CA

Wolfgang Puck, Lee Hefter & Barbara Lazaroff with Chef de Cuisine Thomas Boyce & Executive Pastry Chef Sherry Yard welcome several of the world’s finest chefs to prepare an elegant six-course dinner at the 10th Annual Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner. This limited-seating event at Spago Beverly Hills is filled with exquisite dishes paired with select wines and a live auction featuring one-of-a-kind items and experiences. Celebrity chefs Gina DePalma of Ristorante Babbo; Dean Fearing of Fearing's at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas; Laurent Gras of L2O; Thomas Keller of Bouchon; Jereme Leung of Jereme Leung Creative Concepts Pte Ltd; and Nobu Matsuhisa of Matsuhisa & Nobu LA pair up, each preparing one course, for the grand gala dinner. Reservations for the Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner are available for $750 per person or $7,000 per table. Please contact Ellen Farentino, Spago, at (310) 385-0880.

PARIS HILTON OR NICOLE RICHIE? YOU MAKE THE CALL

by Don Rose

Okay, so some of you celeberati and fameinistas out there may think this one is easy, but I think it is suitably hard to be amusing, or at least distracting, and what higher journalistic goal can there be, I ask you. (Rhetorically, that is.) Anyway, look below and let us know if you know whether this pic is of Paris Hilton or Nicole Richie. Even if you get it right, there is no doubt that the two former reality-TV-co-stars are starting to look a heck of a lot alike. (There may even be a prize if you get it right. But I doubt it.)

Mystery Celeb out shopping in Beverly Hills CA.

(September 25, 2009 - Photo by Photo Agency)

SEP 26: EO-LA Playboy Mansion Party; High Profile Entrepreneurs & Celebs Gather to Raise Funds for Renewable Sources of Energy

Posted by Don Rose

(LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire-USNewswire) - EO-LA's Board of Directors embark on an ambitious fundraising event to raise monetary support and awareness for the Intergovernmental Renewable Energy Organization (IREO), a non-profit organization promoting and delivering renewable sources of energy to help bring sustainability to underdeveloped communities while creating a better and cleaner world. Hosted by the Los Angeles chapter of Entrepreneurs Organization (EO-LA), the EO Business Entertainment Charity event will be held at the Playboy Mansion on Saturday, September 26 where Hugh Hefner will be presented with an Honorary Lifetime Membership to EO-LA for his entrepreneurial accomplishments. Over 1,500 EO members from chapters around the globe will be attending along with dignitaries, guests, Playboy Bunnies and celebrity supporters who will be walking the green carpet. Celebrity guests include: music legend Billy Idol, Debbie Matenopoulos (Daily 10), Ashley Rickards (One Tree Hill), Vanessa Lengies (Hawthorne), Prostasio (No Bad Days), NBA star Olden Polynice, Darren Moore (Planet Green), Kim Director (Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2) and Carla Ortiz (CSI Miami, Shut Up & Shoot), Jason Chambers (Human Weapon), Demian Bichir (Weeds), Frank Le Boeuf (World Cup Champion-France). EO-LA members and guests are expected to enjoy a night filled with entertainment, a silent auction and live performances by Cirque Berzerk and Ivan Kane's Forty Deuce. KCRW-FM's Raul Campos will spin tunes throughout the evening, the latest TESLA electric vehicles will be on display and Debbie Levin of the Environmental Media Association will be collecting used cell phones, iPhones and Blackberries to help promote sustainable lifestyle choices and a cleaner environment. IREO was founded in 2008 as a United Nations sponsored organization with the goals of meeting global environmental challenges posed by implementing pilot projects to educate and promote the use of renewable energies around the world. IREO's vision is to build long-term partnerships with communities, governments, the United Nations, the private sector, NGOs, IGOs, academia and think tanks. EO-LA is a non-profit organization designed to help successful business owners on their path to greater business and personal fulfillment. Membership is extended to entrepreneurs under the age of 50 who have founded and/or own a company grossing a minimum of one million dollars annually. More than 7,000 EO members in 40 countries generate over more than $81 billion annually and employ more than 742,000 employees. The LA chapter of EO is one of the most active and the fastest growing chapter in the United States. For more information on IREO, visit http://www.ireoigo.org/. For information on EO, visit www.eo-la.org. For event tickets and information, please visit http://www.eobec.com/index2.php#/text_3/2/.

SOURCE Entrepreneurs' Organization, Los Angeles Chapter

SEP 24-27: 8th Annual Italian Feast of San Gennaro Returns to Hollywood (Featured Event)

Posted by Don Rose

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8th Annual Precious® Cheese

Italian Feast of San Gennaro LA

Returns To Hollywood September 25 – 27, 2009

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Assistant Chief Sharon Papa

Los Angeles Police Department

Honored at Prima Notte 2009 on September 24

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Community festival celebrates Italian culture with three days of

music, food, wine, rides and games

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(Hollywood) – The San Gennaro Foundation kicks off October’s Italian Heritage Month, a celebration of everything it means to be Italian, with their annual street festival in honor of Italian culture. Back for its eighth year, the Precious^® Cheese Italian Feast of San Gennaro, Los Angeles will once again take over Hawthorn Ave. (between Highland and Orange) in Hollywood.

“The Feast of San Gennaro is something my family and I look forward to every year,” Jimmy Kimmel said. “I have no doubt that our eighth year will be a great one.”

Inspired by the 78-year old New York City tradition, the Feast celebrates Italian culture, entertainment and cuisine, and throughout the weekend will feature great food, music, genealogy research, a Kid’s Corner, bocce, bingo, carnival rides, games and more. Surprise celebrity guests will join the cooking team, as they demonstrate Italian recipes on the Precious^® Cheese La Cucina Italiana Cooking Stage with special guest, Precious^® Cheese’s very own Chef Marco.

“We have been bringing Italian culture to the heart of Hollywood for eight years running,” said Frankie Competelli, President of The San Gennaro Foundation, Los Angeles. “We are thrilled to, once again, celebrate tradition, family, and great food with the community.”

The fun-filled weekend commences Thursday, September 24^th with the opening night gala, “Prima Notte 2009,” which raises funds for The San Gennaro Foundation’s charitable programs benefiting underprivileged children, families and homeless in Los Angeles.

Continuing in their commitment to honor prominent Italian-Americans in the community, The San Gennaro Foundation will pay tribute to Sharon Papa, Assistant Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department. Hosted by event co-founder Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla, Prima Notte is a star-studded fund-raising gala featuring some of the city’s most prominent Italian-Americans and dignitaries joining together in support of The San Gennaro Foundation.

Sharon Papa will receive the San Gennaro Foundation "Humanitarian Award” and Master of Ceremonies Mark DeCarlo will introduce special performances during “Italian American Bandstand”, featuring Italian artist’s music from the 50’s and 60’s. The evening’s charity auction will feature: a “Kobe Bryant” (2009 NBA Champion & MVP) autographed Lakers Jersey, a “Terry Bradshaw” (4-Time Super Bowl Champion, NFL Hall of Fame) and “Ben Roethlisberger” (2006, 2008 Super Bowl Champion Quarterback) autographed Pittsburgh Steelers Pro-line Helmet, “Eagles” and “Aerosmith” autographed Guitars, various luxury vacation packages to Italy, London, Paris, Hawaii, Mexico, Chicago, and tickets to “Oprah Winfrey”, “Blue Man Group”, “Cirque de Soleil” and New York’s famous “Macy’s Day Parade”. Local auction items include Gondolier rides and a family-style dinner hosted at the “Los Angeles Fire Department” Hollywood Firehouse.

Tickets for the opening night gala are available online at http://www.feastofla.org/ and are $100 each for VIP Admission, $50 each for General Admission or $2,000 for a reserved table for ten guests.

“Precious^® Cheese is proud to be presenting sponsor again this year helping to bring authentic Italian culture, entertainment, food and fun to the Los Angeles area,” said Jessica Ruth, spokesperson for Precious^® Cheese. “The San Gennaro Foundation’s commitment to preserving Italian-American heritage resonates with the Precious^® Cheese brand and we look forward to continuing to raise funds for the organization and its programs.”

The festival venue is conveniently located across the street from the Hollywood and Highland complex, directly behind the Jimmy Kimmel Live Theater at 1651 N. Highland Ave. Hosted by co-founder Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla, the Feast will be held September 25-27, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. General admission is $5 and kids under 12 are free. All proceeds benefit the San Gennaro Foundation, established to provide aid to children and families in need in Los Angeles.

For more information about the Precious^® Cheese Italian Feast of San Gennaro, Los Angeles, please visit http://www.feastofla.org/ or call (818) 508-0082.

About Precious^® Cheese

Precious^® is a brand of cheese brought to you by Lactalis Retail Dairy, Inc. LDRI is part of Groupe Lactalis, one of the largest dairy companies in the world. Lactalis produces a wide array of all-natural cheese products included among the leading brands of mozzarella, ricotta, fresh mozzarella, string and stick cheese sold in the United States. Our wide variety of specialty cheese is available to retail, foodservice and industrial customers. More information on Precious^® cheese may be found at http://www.preciouscheese.com/.

About The San Gennaro Foundation

The San Gennaro Foundation is a 501(3)c non-profit created by celebrity Jimmy Kimmel and producer Douglas DeLuca, along with some of Los Angeles' most prominent Italian-American citizens, to benefit underprivileged children and homeless in Los Angeles, as well as to provide entertainment and cultural enrichment to the community through its non-profit, cultural outreach program.

The Foundation’s mission is to uphold the principles established by St. Gennaro, patron saint of Naples who worked tirelessly to help people in need. In addition to fundraising, the group seeks to perpetuate cultural identity and solidarity within the Italian American community. All events are intended to embody the attributes of generosity and goodwill that define the Italian spirit. While some efforts celebrate Italian culture, the Foundation and its programs are not limited to Italian Americans and are supported by diverse individuals.

SEP 25: Wine & Raw Food Tasting at Yogaglo (Featured Event)

Posted by Don Rose

Raw Food for Real People (The LA Report's Featured Friday Event)

From the event's Facebook page:

Join us for a Wine & Raw Food Tasting Benefit at Yogaglo Studio
Host: Whole Foods Market Santa Monica
Type: Causes - Fundraiser
Network: Global
Date: Friday September 25 2009
Time: 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Yogaglo Studio
Street: 1800 Berkley Street
City/Town: Santa Monica CA
Phone: 3106506805
Email: kelly.layne@wholefoods.com

EVENT SUMMARY:

Leaf Organic's Raw Chef & Author Rod Rotondi offers culinary treats from nature paired with Whole Foods Market's finest organic wines at the beautiful Yogaglo studio in Santa Monica. Get a sneak preview of Rod's raw food book & DVD series... eat delicious food/wine as you help support Ann Cooper's School Lunch Revolution to transform lunch meals into smart meals!

ADMISSION/RSVP:

$30 Each , $50 Couple
RSVP to Kelly at 310.650.6805 or
kelly.layne@wholefoods.com

"When the Gods get together
this is what they will be eating & drinking"

For more info contact:

Kelly Layne - Marketing Supervisor
Whole Foods Market-Santa Monica
2201 Wilshire Blvd
Phone: 310.315.0662
Kelly.Layne@wholefoods.com

Event on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=130362279108&index=1

NEW BOOK: "Art for Obama: Designing Manifest Hope and the Campaign for Change"

ART FOR OBAMA
Designing Manifest Hope and the Campaign for Change
Edited by Shepard Fairey & Jennifer Gross

NOW AVAILABLE IN STORES

(Click Book Cover to be directed to Amazon.com)

In conjunction with the themes of hope and change,

all of the authors' profits from this book will be

donated to Americans for the Arts charity.

140tc - LA Twitter Conference; Watch Live Feed Here, Now

Streaming live video by Ustream

SEP 22-23: 140 | The Twitter Conference (140tc) - Featured Event of the Week

Posted by Don Rose

It's finally here - the highest profile Twitter conference to hit LA. Nicknamed 140tc, "140 - The Twitter Conference (Tapping Into the Real Time Web)" takes place at the Skirball Cultural Center on September 22 and 23, 2009. Be there or be obsolete. 140 is the place where developers, business people, and enthusiasts converge to find innovative ways to use and benefit from Twitter, arguably the fastest growing Web phenomenon that exists today.

The two-day two-track conference focuses on professional uses of Twitter and is hosted by The Parnassus Group, which has done a stellar job attracting star speakers to the event. The A-list lineup includes Twitter co-founder Biz Stone, Tony Robbins, Dr. Drew Pinsky, actor/singer Tyrese and X Games superstar Tony Hawk as well as legendary lawyer Mark Geragos, Levar Burton, Guy Kawasaki and many more. To see who else is speaking at the event check out the 140tc speakers page.

But wait, there's more! As if all the celebs, keynotes and cool panels weren't enough, the hot LA band Hypnogaja (@hypnogaja) will be performing during the conference reception at the close of the first day, September 22. The party is open to conference attendees only, so there’s one more reason to register. Now that you're suitably wowed, proceed ASAP to buy a ticket. Register here!

SUMMARY OF CONFERENCE DETAILS

The conference is scheduled for September 22nd-23rd, 2009.
Location: Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, CA:


View Larger Map

Registration opens at 7:30am each day, and sessions start at 9 am.
Sessions conclude at 5:30pm both days.
Lunch is scheduled between 12:30 and 2:00 each day.
The conference hashtag is #140tc.
Beverage breaks, breakfast, and lunch are included in the cost of your ticket.

After the last sessions on day one (Sep 22nd)
there will be an open bar cocktail reception
in the Taper Courtyard, just outside the Magnin auditorium.

HOTELS

140tc arranged with Hotel Angeleno
for a discounted conference group rate
of $129.00 per night, which includes parking.

Hotel Angeleno
http://www.hotelangeleno.com/
4.0 miles from Skirball Cultural Center
170 N. Church Lane
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310.476.6411

Additional hotels near the venue (no conference rate):

Luxe Hotel
http://tinyurl.com/ldtezb
4.0 miles from Skirball Cultural Center
160 guestrooms
11461 Sunset Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA90049
(866) LUXE-411

Marriott Courtyard
http://tinyurl.com/njmbbk
2.7 miles from Skirball Cultural Center
196 guestrooms
15433 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oakes, CA 91403
818-981-5400

OFFICIAL 140tc WEBSITE:
http://parnassusgroup.com/twitterconference

If you have additional questions
contact Kim: kim@parnassusgroup.com.

SEP 20: Rapid Dating Singles Cocktail Party; Bring a Friend (2 for 1)

Posted by Don Rose

My friend Renee, who runs Rapid Dating (info@Rapiddating.com),
sent the following info on a great event she is hosting on September 20th.
Highly recommended by The LA Report. Our Featured Sunday Event.

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The master at connecting people is having a party Sunday evening!

Come have some fun! Bring a single Friend to the door & Get in 2 for 1.

That is $30 for 2 (your guest must be with you).

FALL RAPID SOCIAL NETWORKING MIXER & COCKTAIL PARTY for SINGLES
Meet and Connect with other Professional Singles for Dating, Friendship & Fun
Make new Contacts in 2009 and share your Single friends!

Date: Sunday Sep 20th
Time: 6:30pm-10:00pm
Stay after to listen to Awesome Music.
Location: DAKOTA LOUNGE
1026 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica CA 90401.
*Free parking on the Street & behind the location

Event Includes:
* Delicious Complimentary Appetizers from 6:30-7:30pm
* Drink Specials & Happy Hour Prices until 10pm
* Great Live Music * Rapid Mixer/8:00-8:45
* Raffle Prizes! AGES: 30's & 40's - Dress to Impress

$20 in Advance online Single ticket

$30 CASH at the door
Bring a single Friend to the door & Get in 2 people for $30

(your guest must be with you!)
BUY SINGLE TICKETS HERE:
http://www.reneepiane.com/rapid_dating/rapid_dating_events.html

Sponsored by: DanceDoctor.com, EliteConnections.com, RapidDating.com
*If you have a service, gift certificate or product to donate bring it along
for our Free raffle prizes to get exposure for your business

**Check out Renee's HOT SEMINARS starting this week at this link:

http://www.reneepiane.com/products_seminars/love_seminars.html#women

**SINGLE & WANT TO TRAVEL with us? Send us your email

and we will keep you posted on trips for singles. See you at the party!

**I am excited to be on TV at this link: http://tv.braveheartwomen.com

Renee Piane
President of Rapid Dating & Networking
Author of "Love Mechanics"
www.RapidDating.com
www.RapidNetworking.com
www.ReneePiane.com
Email: info@RapidDating.com
Phone: 310-827-1100
PO Box 9111
Marina Del Rey, CA 90295

SEP 19: HINDSIGHT Book Party at Book Soup

SEP 26: Benefit at Marrakesh House - high tea, cake & live performance of improvised Jane Austen novel

Benefit at Marrakesh House - Saturday September 26th at 2PM "A Very Civilized Afternoon with Jane Austen"

The Impro Theatre will be improvising a play (in the style of one of Ms. Austen's novels) in the courtyard, followed by high tea and a silent auction. Benefit tickets are $50. It's going to be a fun afternoon. This event is hosted by CHRIS PAINE, director of "Who Killed the Electric Car"! It promises to be a great time, and the house itself is an amazing space with an incredible view of Los Angeles! More Info: http://janeaustenunscripted.eventbrite.com   Firecircle Events (www.marrakeshhouse.com) --- You are invited to Marrakesh House for high tea, cake, and a live performance of an improvised Jane Austen novel on Saturday Sept 26th Date: Saturday, September 26, 2009 at 2:00 PM (PT) Location: Marrakesh House Parking at 8439 Steller Drive Culver City, CA 90232 For tickets and more information click here

SEP 20-26: DINE OUT in LA and Help End Childhood Hunger

36.2 million Americans—including 12.4 million children—face hunger, and it's no surprise that last week's release of census data on poverty shows that number on the rise. To respond to the growing need, Share Our Strength is hosting The Great American Dine Out, a weeklong opportunity to dine out at your favorite restaurants and help raise money to fight childhood hunger. By dining out at participating restaurants September 20-26, you can help raise funds to end chi ldhood hunger in America. Families have cut back on eating out this year, but I hope you'll agree that the Great American Dine Out offers an excuse to take a night off and treat yourself to a great meal—one that will help fight childhood hunger. Some of your favorite restaurants are participating in the Great American Dine Out next week. So skip the dirty dishes, and find a participating restaurant near you. Make plans now to dine out next week and help us make this year's Dine Out better than the last. In just one week last year, you helped raise enough money to provide more than 4.5 million meals and teach nearly 13,000 nutrition classes to low-income families. Last week you helped us to spread awareness by telling a friend about our work. This week, we hope you'll call those friends and invite them to join you for the Great American Dine Out. Will you join us for the Great American Dine Out this year? Sincerely, Billy Shore Founder & Executive Director Share Our Strength P.S. Every dine r makes a difference. We hope to see you there. © Share Our Strength, Contact: info@strength.org

Extra Food + Hungry People = Problem Solved Thanks to "Feed His People"

Recording Artist Norwood Young, Founder of ‘Feed His People’, Declares Outrage Over Wasted Food - And Does Something About It

Posted by Don Rose

“During a time when record numbers of people are losing their homes, unemployment is rising and a growing number of families are in need, California caterers, hotels and restaurants throw out roughly 1.5 million tons of perfectly good food every year," says Norwood Young, founder of ‘Feed His People’, a faith-based non-profit organization committed to ending hunger in America, beginning with Los Angeles County. “If you include food stores, medical/health facilities, schools, county facilities and businesses, over 5.8 million tons of food is discarded annually, according to a study published by the California Environmental Protection Agency in December 2004."

The UCLA Center for Health Policy and Research found that over 3 million adults in California could not put food on the table and 1.3 million children are going to bed hungry. In Los Angeles County alone, it is estimated that close to 1 million households are experiencing low food security. It's not just the homeless who are flocking to food banks and soup kitchens -- the worsening economy is forcing many working families to seek assistance just to put food on the table.

“Most people don’t know that if you are the one paying for that hotel banquet, wedding party or corporate event, you have the right to insist that any leftovers be donated to charity. And, when you are dining out, ask the restaurant what they do with their leftover food and let them know about the Good Samaritan Act,” says Norwood. The Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act, signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996, protects the donor and the recipient agency against any liability, excepting only gross negligence and/or intentional misconduct. According to Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code, “ . . . wholesome food that is properly saved, donated to an approved agency and properly receipted is eligible for an enhanced tax deduction equal to ½ of the donated food’s appreciated value . . ."

So why is so much food ending up in the dumpster? “Simply put, it's often too much hassle for restaurants, caterers and hotels to arrange for leftover food to be given to a homeless shelter or soup kitchen. So they toss it in the trash,” says Mr. Young. “However, the good news is that The Cheesecake Factory, The Olive Garden, Red Lobster, A&W Restaurants, KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Long John Silver’s have stepped up to the plate and are harvesting their leftover food, but where are the rest of the national chains ... and why isn’t every hotel, caterer and restaurant doing the same?”

To augment food rescue in Los Angeles County, ‘Feed His People’ is now working in conjunction with a Southern California food bank whose facility includes a 24,000 square foot warehouse with freezer and refrigeration space which can hold 4.5 million pounds of food at any given time. “We will pick up the food, transport it and deliver it to the hungry. All we need is your leftover food,” says Norwood, “and hopefully, together, we can end hunger in America."

To volunteer, donate food, or for more information, contact Feed His People at (323) 549-0876 or info@wefeedhispeople.org. The organization's website is located at www.wefeedhispeople.org/index02.htm.

ABOUT NORWOOD YOUNG

With a heart for the less fortunate, Norwood founded “Feed His People,” a non-profit organization to feed the hungry, in 2005. As the former lead singer for the legendary jazz group “Pieces of a Dream,” Norwood Young recorded the album entitled ‘Bout Dat Time’ and received a Gold Record for the hit single “What Can I Do?” Norwood has appeared weekly on television, starring on E! Network Television’s hit reality series “High Maintenance 90210.”

In the mid-1990’s, the New Jersey native purchased an estate in Hancock Park and was immediately plagued with controversy when he decorated his front lawn with seventeen statues modeled on Michelangelo's David. Norwood would spend the next thirteen years fighting for his freedom of expression as uptight neighbors tried to get him to take the statues down or move out! Today the infamous Youngwood Court Estate is both a landmark and tourist attraction, and in November 2008 Norwood Young was inducted as ‘King of Hancock Park’ by the prestigious LA City Beat magazine. Norwood has recently completed his autobiography, "Getting Back To My Me," written with Pulitzer Prize winner Karen Hunter. The memoir chronicles his life, from sexual and drug abuse to the perils of Hollywood. The book is due out in Spring 2010, and is published by Simon and Schuster.

SEP 16: See Megan Fox & Panic At the Disco live at H&H

See Megan Fox and Panic At The Disco Live September 16 at the central courtyard at Hollywood & Highland! To promote the release of JENNIFER'S BODY, join Megan Fox, Adam Brody, Amanda Seyfried and writer/producer Diablo Cody for a Q&A appearance followed by a performance by PANIC AT THE DISCO Where: Hollywood & Highland 6801 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028-6128 Event time: 5:00pm A cheerleader with the perfect life becomes the girl from hell when she gets possessed and begins killing boys in a small town. Starring Megan Fox, Amanda Seyfried, Johnny Simmons, J.K. Simmons and Amy Sedaris. Written by Diablo Cody, Oscar winner for Juno. In theaters September 18!

SEP 20: Visionary Celebrates Peace Day at Santa Monica Pier + Golden Earth Giveaway + 20% Off All Items

Join Visionary Mobile this Weekend at Peace Day Celebration Enter the Golden Earth GIveaway Celebrate International Peace Day! International Peace Day is September 21st. Visionary will participate in The Peace Day Celebration with Roots & Shots at Santa Monica Pier. Visionary values companies that hold a high standard and commitment to safety in personal care products. That's why they're excited to welcome their newest skin care line, Duchess Marden! And they can bring the mobile to you for an eco makeover event! Just shoot them an email and they can go over all the details with you. Below is more info from their latest newsletter. Join Visionary Mobile this Sunday, September 20th from 11-4 for a Peace Day Celebration at the Santa Monica Pier. Bring the kids and learn how we can all work together to create a peaceful planet! You can RSVP on our facebook invite. Visionary is proud to announce the Golden Earth Give Away!!! 3 lucky winners will get to choose the botanical essence of their choice! Rules: Submit your "Wish for the World" on our website HERE Make sure to leave your email active so we can contact you. 3 winners will be chosen at random,and contacted via email the first week of October. Prizes can be claimed in store at our Pico address or be mailed . Golden Earth Perfumes from nature are made with 100% pure organic and wild crafted essential oils. They smell wonderful! They are healthy, green and good for you! They come from real plants that have their own unique vibrations to lift your spirit, balance your senses and much more... Precious essential oils such as sandalwood, rose, jasmine, neroli and tuberose before September 30th. With summer nearly behind us,Visionary Mobile is now available to come to you! Book Visionary Mobile for a custom eco makeover party. You bring the posse and we'll bring the non toxic make up artist,mobile boutique stocked with green goodies,and a host of other a la carte options to cater the party to your specific desires! We'll also bring her to your TV or movie set, all stocked with eco fabulous goodies! Just shoot us an email and we'll get you details! Join Our Mailing List! Visit our website!!!! visionaryboutique.com Store Locations FLAGSHIP 5285 West Pico Avenue Los Angeles,CA 90019 MAP 310-659-1177 NEWLY OPENED!!! COSTA MESA SEED People's Market 2937 Bristol St. #C100 Costa Mesa,CA 92626 714-708-2277 MAP Check out our blog! 20% OFF all store items inspired by PEACE! Offer Expires: Septemeber 20, 2009 Visionary Boutique | 5285 West Pico Blvd. | Los Angeles | CA | 90019

BORDERS: 40% Off Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol, Available Sep 15

SEP 12: Woodstock closing reception at Duncan Miller Gallery

Woodstock: The 40th Anniversary in Pictures Woodstock in Pictures features the four original photographers at this historic event: Baron Wolman, Jim Marshall, Henry Diltz and Lisa Law.   Join Duncan Miller Gallery this Saturday, September 12th, 7-10 pm for the closing reception for Woodstock: The 40th Anniversary in Pictures. Baron Wolman will be signing books and DMG's original Woodstock art print. This photography exhibition documents the experience, and journals the feeling and spirit, of the world's most famous music festival. This show has received critical acclaim and has been featured on CNN, NBC, CBS, the LA Times and LA Weekly. It will be on display until September 26th.

Duncan Miller Gallery 10959 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90034

Thursday-Saturday 11-6 and by appointment

310-838-2440   email: dmg@duncanmillergallery.com

web: www.duncanmillergallery.com

join DMG on Facebook

Posted via email from thelareport's posterous

SEP 12: Andrew Bush at M+B: Artist Opening Reception & Book Signing

Join M+B Saturday, September 12 from 7 to 9 pm for the artist's opening reception and book signing for ANDREW BUSH: VECTOR PORTRAITS at 612 N. Almont Drive in West Hollywood

M+B is proud to present an exhibition of color photographs by ANDREW BUSH titled VECTOR PORTRAITS, opening on September 12 and running through October 17, with a reception and book signing by the artist on Saturday, September 12 from 7 – 9pm. Vector Portraits is Andrew Bush’s series from 1989 to 1997, shot in and around Los Angeles using his car as a tripod and capturing Angelenos vis-à-vis their unique relationships with their automobiles.  The series began in 1989 after Bush graduated from Yale with an MFA in Photography and moved to Los Angeles. Struck by the city’s “great relationship between people and their car,” Bush attached a medium format camera to his passenger seat with a strobe light and a shutter release cable and drove the city streets and freeways. Either stopped in traffic or moving at speeds of 20 to 70 miles an hour, Bush’s method included “moving in parallel with the person next to [him], as a way of coming into their world” and then releasing the shutter. The essence of what makes these images appealing is that they are a prolonged version of the awkward eye contact frequently made while driving. It is undeniably voyeuristic and satisfying, and now one has the leisure to examine minutely while remaining anonymous. Bush offers up a slice of Los Angeles life at its most mundane and telling. The work has been exhibited in solo and group shows, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York), Walker Art Center (Minneapolis), Davis Museum and Cultural Center at Wellesley College (Wellesley, Massachusetts) and Staatliche Kunsthalle (Baden-Baden, Germany).

ANDREW BUSH: VECTOR PORTRAITS runs from September 12  - October 15, 2009. http://www.mbfala.com (Press Release). The artist will be available to sign copies of his new book Andrew Bush: Vector Portraits published by Yale University Press.

SEP 11: Rock & Roll Wine Event, House Of Blues Foundation Room; All You Can Drink Wine Tastings & Live Music

Posted by Don Rose

Las Vegas’ phenomenon Rock ‘n Roll® Wine returns to Los Angeles on Fri. Sept 11 at 7pm with their monthly live music & wine pairing event at the House of Blues VIP Membership Only Club Foundation Room. Rock n Roll Wine® asks the question: “What style of music goes with each particular wine?" You decide for yourself on Fri. Sep 11 from 7-10pm at the Foundation Room. Tickets are $35 in advance/$40 at the door and include light apps, live music and all-you-can-drink wine tastings. Also celebrating the Birthday of KIM KOURY of SPIN PR! Pre-order tickets online at www.rocknrollwine.com. Enter CODE: REDLIGHT and receive $5 OFF.

ROCK ‘N ROLL WINE BRINGS BACK ITS POPULAR LIVE MUSIC AND WINE TASTING EVENT TO FOUNDATION ROOM ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2009

Featuring Live Musical Performance By Cofféy

Rock ‘n Roll Wine will host their next monthly event at the House of Blues member’s only VIP club Foundation Room on Friday, September, 11, 2009 and feature the live acoustic rock stylings of singer/songwriter Cofféy. The Vegas-famed wine party will feature 15 plus hand-selected, mouth-watering wines from around the world, including Rock 'n Roll Wine's own award-winning blends: “Reggae Rhapsody,” and “The Grotto”. Rock 'n Roll Wine invites LA to “Rock Out With Your Cork Out®” on Friday, Sept. 11 at the Foundation Room!

Doors open at 7:00 p.m. The festivities will conclude at 10:00 p.m. though patrons will be able to remain in Foundation Room for the remainder of the night. Tickets for this event are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. Ticket price includes all live entertainment, wine tasting, and light hors d'oeuvres. To purchase your tickets in advance, visit www.rocknrollwine.com or call 702-240-3066. Enter code: SPINPR when ordering tickets online and receive $5 OFF addmission. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend.

“We’re excited to continue to bring our signature, high-energy wine tasting concept to Los Angeles exposing new fans to delicious wines and cutting edge live entertainment all in one package,” says Founder Chris Hammond. Co-founder Sonny Barton agreed, “We pride ourselves on the wine experience and combining our concept with the eclectic setting of the Foundation Room makes for a truly memorable evening.”

For press inquiries, please contact Kim Koury at Spin Public Relations kim@spinprgroup.com or (323) 330-9559.

ABOUT COFFEY
Growing up in Texas, Coffey has built up his career from singing in the bed of his dad’s farm truck for passing cars, to performing over 100 dates in 7 months and releasing 4 albums all over the nation. Shortly after moving to LA to pursue his love for music, Cofféy started crashing auditions, movie shoots, and singing in malls until security came. He made an 8 song demo and started street performing to sell it. Crowds would fill the street and the police would shut the concerts down. His talent now ranges from street performing in Santa Monica, rodeos in Texas, to exclusive parties in the Hamptons. Coffey is well known for his appearance on NBC’s hit reality competition show “Nashville Star,” where he finished 3rd place. This southern man’s music is almost as dynamic as his personality. For more info, go to www.myspace.com/coffeyanderson

ABOUT ROCK ‘N ROLL WINE
Founded by Sommelier Chris Hammond and business partner Sonny Barton, Rock ‘n Roll Wine is a wine events, marketing and promotions company dedicated to revolutionizing the way people approach, perceive, and enjoy wine. Rock ‘n Roll Win e produces monthly high-energy wine events in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Ann Arbor, in addition to making their own music-themed line of wines. The company has expansion plans for Austin, Phoenix, and Chicago in 2009. Past events have been held at some of the best venues in Las Vegas including Mandalay Bay, Hard Rock, Tao Beach, Bellagio, Foundation Room and Studio 54 and have featured well-known artists such as Dashboard Confessional, Everclear, Ingrid Michaelson, Pat Monahan of Train, Low vs. Diamond, The Script, Gin Blossoms, Sugar Ray and more. Rock ‘n Roll Wine believes the wine experience is just as important as the quality of the wine. Combining the right atmosphere, with the right music, and the right people is when “the juice” truly shines. As the company grows, so does the quality of events bringing the best live music and most delicious wine to one place at one time. For more information, go to www.rocknrollwine.com.

ABOUT FOUNDATION ROOM
The Sunset Strip Foundation Room pr ovides a unique setting for entertaining. The walls are covered with woven panels of Gujarat fabric and members enjoy a fireside lounge, sacred Prayer Rooms, skyline views, elegant dining, and live entertainment for an unrivaled experience in Los Angeles. For more information, go to www.houseofblues.com.

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Friday Sept 11th :: Rock n Roll Wine Event at House of Blues Foundation Room
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SEP 13: Taste of Santa Monica - Featured Event of the Weekend

Posted by Don Rose

  8TH ANNUAL TASTE OF SANTA MONICA: BIGGER, BETTER, TASTIER!

  The Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce in partnership with “KOOZA” Cirque du Soleil is taking TASTE OF SANTA MONICA to new heights for its 8th annual food festival at Santa Monica Pier on Sunday, September 13th from 1:00 – 5:00pm. This year’s TASTE OF SANTA MONICA will offer an extended live music performance and Sunset Happy Hour from 5:00 – 7:00pm. Your entrance fee includes live music, giveaways, a chance to win “KOOZA” tickets, preferred prices to see “KOOZA” (www.cirquedusoleil.com/tasteSM), an International pizza tent, and you can even meet and mingle with the “KOOZA” street team. For kids there’s an interactive kids corner, cook with the Chefs, and discounts to Pacific Park.

  TASTE will also feature the inspirational work of Upward Bound House, WISE & Healthy Aging, Westside Food Bank, and OPCC. The Santa Monica Chamber’s “PeBL Gives Back” campaign is proud to partner with such inspirational community organizations. Enjoy the many flavors around town all in one spot and don’t forget to sample the many different varieties of wine and beer at the wine booths and beer garden.

  This Year’s Participants
Acadie Crepes, Angelato Café, Barney’s Beanery, Beachcomber Café, Bombay Café, Bon Melange Catering, Border Grill & Ciudad Catering, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Buddha’s Belly, Caffe Bellagio, Cezanne Restaurant – Le Merigot Hotel & Spa, Chart House, Chez Jay, Duke’s Malibu, Edible Arrangements, El Cholo Restaurant, Enterprise Fish Co., Farm Fresh To You, FIG Restaurant – Fairmont Miramar Hotel, Gardens of Santa Monica, Hooters, I Cugini Restaurant, Il Fornaio, La Grande Orange, La Vecchia Cucina, Leaf Organics, Library Alehouse, The Lobster, Locanda Del Lago, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, LU Cookie/Biscuits, Mahatma Rice, Mariasol Restaurant, Maui Wowi Hawaiian, Monsoon Café, Nawab of India, Ocean Avenue Seafood, The Organic Panificio, Panera Bread, Real Food Daily, Ruby’s Shake Shack, Rusty’s Surf Ranch, Shangri-La Hotel, Sheraton Delfina Santa Monica, Swingers Diner, Vienna Pastry, Whole Foods, Wokcano, Xooro, The Yard.

 Ticket Information
Entrance fee is $10, children 2-10 are $5, free for children under 2 years old. Upon entrance PURCHASE YOUR TASTE BUCKS in $1 increments to use for sampling items at all the booths. OR better yet - beat the lines and reserve your VIP pass for only $65 per person which gets you early VIP entrance to event at 12:30pm, unlimited food & drinks (wine booths and bottled water included). For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.tasteofsantamonica.com or call 310-393-9825 ext. 10.

  Supporting Our Event
Sponsors are an important part in making this event happen each year. This year we give thanks to Buick Lacrosse, Albertson, Bud Light, Red Bull, Y Water, O.N.E. Drinks, The Art Institute of California – Los Angeles, Santa Monica Convention and Visitors Bureau, Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corporation, The Lobster, Bossa Nova, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, US Bank, LU Cookies/Bisquits, Botham Plumbing & Heating, Whole Foods Santa Monica, Gardens of Santa Monica, Georgian Hotel, Le Merigot Beach Hotel & Spa, Fairmont Miramar Hotel – Fig Restaurant, ISU Bob Gabriel Co. Insurance, JSM Management Inc. Media sponsors include Los Angeles Business TV, Neptune Local, Santa Monica Daily Press and Santa Monica Mirror.

  About The Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce
The Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce (smchamber.com) advocates and represents businesses' interests and issues affecting the community. We provide an environment to help our members prosper and succeed through a proactive working partnership with all levels of government and community organizations to achieve a healthy local economy and quality of life. The Chamber seeks to constantly develop new services for its members. These services include the Santa Monica Magazine Business Directory and Buyers Guide, membership maps, free consulting sessions, resource lists, etc. The Chamber has more than 15 committees and action groups that both inform the community to effect legislative action as well as develop programs to enhance member benefits.

   

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