HOTEL REPORT: Chamberlain West Hollywood Celebrates Grand Re-Opening With Rooftop Party

by Don Rose

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The Chamberlain Hotel held its grand (re-)opening on August 30th, hosting a super soiree with smooth sounds, savory snacks, superb sweets and self-serve snapshots! The rooftop affair brought out about 100 guests, ranging from hospitality insiders to hotel staffers, press, VIPs, and a bathing beauty in a bubble to boot (say that ten times fast). The party's savory edibles included crabcakes, bruschetta with ham, shrimp, risotto fritters, chicken bites and more, plus an item I'd never seen or tried before (fried pickles - surprisingly delicious). Delectable desserts included funnel cake bites and chocolate tarts. The view from the roof was also quite enjoyable, especially at sunset.

Lovely libations flowed as well, with champagne and other assorted drinks available for guests at two bars. Handmade specialty sno-cones proved popular with the poolside patrons, served by the Chamberlain's friendly staff.

Overall, it was a most excellent party to celebrate this "home away from home", ideal for celebs and corporate road warriors (and anyone) wishing to stay in the heart of hip Hollywood / West Hollywood while avoiding paparazzi and unwanted noise. The secluded block where the Chamberlain is located is super quiet, yet is just a couple of blocks south of the Sunset Strip, 2 blocks west of La Cienega, and a block north of Santa Monica Blvd (yes, only a one minute walk to the fantastic shopping paradise that is Trader Joes, and a Starbucks a few feet away). Staying at the luxurious Chamberlain (now with renovated rooms) is like residing in an upscale condo, and the personable personnel are a big plus as well.

So don't be shy, give it a try!

For staycation or vacation, let the Chamberlain be your destination.

(No, I wasn't paid for that slogan... but I am open to offers!)

The Chamberlain Hotel

1000 Westmount Drive
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(310) 657-7400

Summary: a luxury boutique hotel on a secluded block, ideal for Hollywood and

Los Angeles business travel, meetings, events, vacations and celeb staycations.

Newly Renovated Suites

Chamberlain West Hollywood

"Newly renovated all-suite accommodations in the heart of West Hollywood. All suites feature a private balcony, fireplace, and newly redesigned bathrooms with Neil George bath products."

(from the Chamberlain's Facebook page)

OSCARS 2010: ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion/MixMedia Luxury Lounge Recap, Part 1

Popular celeb gifting suite once again featured stars of stage and screen as well as gorgeous green swag, including jewelry box by Michelle Abogado

Event Report Posted by Don Rose

Stars, VIPs and members of the media descended on the posh London Hotel on March 5^th & 6^th , 2010 to indulge in the annual ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion/MixMedia Luxury Lounge, known worldwide as one of the most prestigious of the Academy Award week celebrity gifting suites. Once again, the various vendors (covered in more detail in Part 2) dazzled and delighted all who were lucky enough to score an invite.

One of the most popular booths featured jewelry designer to the stars, Michelle Abogado. Very much inspired by the natural beauty of the surf and sand in Laguna Beach, jewelry box designer Abogado debuted her brand new collection of magnificent, eco-friendly jewels. It’s her first line and it’s a HIT! The Mulligan Collection features original and imaginative rings, cuffs, and bracelets with bold colored stones such as chalcedony blue, rutilated quartz and pyrite quartz.

Each piece makes a statement, says Michelle. “My philosophy is simple...I hope to bring more beauty into the world through my creations by bringing something unique and timeless to the wearer.”

With barely a moment to catch her breath, Michelle hosted and styled celebrities in some lavish pieces from The Mulligan Collection. Whether a gift to keep or a little something for someone special, everyone was exceptionally impressed with the line.

Some celebrity highlights from the two day event: Diedre Hall opted for a sweet, simple pair of circle hoop earrings. “ I can wear these on the show (Days of Our Lives), they’ll be perfect,” she said. Cutie pie Ariel Winter (Modern Family) was all smiles with her new necklace. She thought it was beautiful. Alan Cummings (we still love him best from "Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion") picked out a cool chunky quartz ring set in sterling silver. Comedian Heather McDonald (Chelsea Lately) loved her new necklace, a true statement piece. True Blood stars Ashley Jones and Natasha Alam as well as the delightful and funny Kim Cole and Candice Cameron were looking extra glamorous in their new cocktail rings.

Here are a few photos featuring some of Michelle's unique and beautiful creations up close:

SUNDANCE 2010: ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion / MixMedia Luxury Lounge Hosts Galaxy of Stars

Posted by Don Rose

Event Report from Sundance, January 22nd-24th 2010 -

This year's ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion/MixMedia Luxury Lounge at Sundance kept guests warm and entertained with the hottest new green products, organic spa treatments and tasty eco treats. As the snow piled higher than usual this year it didn’t make a dent in the crowd that turned out to enjoy the Lounge.

Guests who came by - some television stars and film regulars, some very talented new stars you should have on your radar - included Jill Zarin, Laura Herring, James Kyson-Lee, AJ Buckly, Beth Stolarczyk, Clayne Crawford, Adam Scarimbolo Diego Luna, Hakeem Kae Kazime, Tom Malloy, Walter Perez, Greg Finely, Fagun Thakrar, Heather Kafka, SNL’s Rachel Dratch and more.

Visitor favorites among the vendors included edgy and imaginative jewels filled with rich, multi-colored stones, all original designs by So. Cal native Michelle Abogado, Virtual Golf Girl designs, revitalizing spa goodies from Aubrey Organics, 30 minute fabulous facials from Dr. Susanne Bennett’s PURGLO collagen mask and serum that left their skin rejuvenated and glowing, and the cool T-Zone Vibration Machine to shake off those extra pounds. In order to recharge and satisfy some hunger pains Explorer’s Bountywas there with their much loved healthy fruit chips, delicious chocolates, coffee and tea. Just in time for happy hour, guests kicked back with Maestro Dobel Diamond Tequila.

In between gifts and refreshments, ALIVE! Expo Green Pavilion guests took time to participate in the Project Green Celebrity Photo Shoot. The Project Green non-profit 501c3 – www.projectgreenusa.org - is a new foundation that raises money for kids to attend eco-friendly summer camps. Celebs shared their “going green” thoughts and tips on camera with NVALEO Enrichment System.

Of course, everyone loved the VIP gift bags, which were filled with the fabulous products mentioned below.

Full list of sponsors: Aubrey Organics, Explorer’s Bounty, North American Herb & Spice, Chews 4 Health, Pup to Go, Tea Lab, Tuwa Design Bags (the ultimate in portable solar power...in the form of bags & backpacks), Organic Spa Magazine, Michelle Abogado Designs, Somebody’s Mother’s Chocolate Sauce, NVALEO Enrichment System (a multifaceted, personal and professional enrichment tool), Sunfusion Designs (hypoallergenic hardware: earrings, belt buckles and pendants), Virtual Golf Girl LLC designs by Lynni Megginson, Food Should Taste Good, Dr. Susanne Bennett’s PURGLO Collagen Mask & Serum, as well as mini facial services, and Maestro Dobel Diamond Tequila.

For more information on any of the above-mentioned sponsors and the lounge please visit www.aliveexpogreenpavilion.com or contact Stacy@diamondgirlpr.com.

Alive! Expo Green Pavilion is led by founders Patrycja Siewert-Towns and Kim Shimmel. As specialists in ‘green’ and in creating brand entertainment /sponsorship opportunities that surround ‘official green’ Hollywood red carpet ceremonies, their focus is on ‘earth friendly’ clients. Their goal is to bring clients into programs that build a platform that will raise awareness in a collaborative effort for all participating members. Alive! Expo Green Pavilion strives to familiarize clients with their additional brand entertainment services and build a comfort level around their capabilities as event producers and fundraisers.

Photos by Rob Fenn: 1: Reality Star Beth Stolarcyzk, 2: Jewelry box designer Michelle Abogado with James Kyson-Lee, star of Heroes, 3. Louis Lombardi.

ERIKA JAYNE MARKS RELEASE OF 'PRETTY MESS' WITH EROTIC CELEB-PACKED EVENT AT COCO DE MER

Event Report - Posted by Don Rose

On the evening of August 20th, singer, songwriter and dance pop sensation ERIKA JAYNE was feted with a very special event at Coco de Mer in honor of her newly released debut album PRETTY MESS (E1 Music) which features three #1 Billboard Dance Club Play singles including the current “Give You Everything.”

Special guests who packed the luxury erotica boutique on LA's ultra-hip Melrose Avenue included singer/songwriter Jody Watley, actor Michael Des Barres, authors Christopher Ciccone and Neil Strauss, Coco de Mer shop owner Justine Roddick, multi-Grammy Award winning producer/songwriter Val Garay, famed choreographer Mikey Minden, make-up artist and photographer Troy Jensen and music producers The Perry Twins, Dave Aude and DJ Irene.

In addition to champagne, delicious treats and provocatively dressed burlesque dancers from Michelle Carr (who embodied the store’s high-end naughty sensibility), the evening featured an erotica poetry reading from the Marquis Michael Des Barres. He included an erotic poem especially for ERIKA, the glamorous Atlanta-born, Los Angeles transplant glamorous artist whose music reels you in with her alluring vocals, catchy melodies and electro beats, not to mention an infectious taste of decadence.

Here’s a sample from Des Barres’ poem for ERIKA:

“In that glorious moment, in that true moment of connection and ecstasy
Your body shudders as she slips and slides beneath you.
Moves her hips to the rhythm of surrender.
You gasp as she performs for you,
yearns for you.
She shows you everything with no inhibition.
Such an exhibition of pure, tarnished, electric dirty beauty.”

For photos of the event, see:

WireImage
http://wireimage.com/ItemListings.aspx?igi=386030&nbc1=1

Associated Press
http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo/090821/482/072d8d8ce6804508b4d92dbd41ce35a6/
http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo/090821/482/cffe4aa112954fb08a06bc2e39fce44a/
http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo/090821/482/9908c6ba51404ea39e429509b312f84b/
http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo/090821/482/84f076e59b0f416cb52ded226b66e113/

Meanwhile, for more from ERIKA, check out this recent Q&A where she talks about PRETTY MESS:

The first sentence of your bio reads: "If disco balls, ecstasy, pearls, Studio 54, sex, crystal chandeliers, Purple Rain, and Crème Brule, could be whipped in a blender and made into a delicious pop-dance musical confection, you would have Pretty Mess, the debut CD from dance-pop s latest sensation Erika Jayne." Can you elaborate on your fascination with fantasy and decadence?

Erika Jayne: The world can be a harsh place to live in--I prefer to focus on things that allow people to use their imagination and feel better about life.

Congrats on your new hit and third #1 dance single “Give You Everything.” What do you feel is the special charm on this song—it’s connecting real fast with listeners in the dance clubs?

It’s fun and everyone has found that one person who captures their heart.

What are your favorite songs on the album? Which were the most fun to write and record?

“Beautiful” and “Pretty Mess” are my favorites--both are a little windows into my soul.

What inspires you artistically beyond music itself? Any films, books or other cultural stimuli?

Black and white movies and erotic poetry.

You have a fearless and bold quality to your persona. How did this develop?

Many hard knocks.

You love to entertain. What’s your favorite thing to serve? Do you have a signature cocktail?

Tons of caviar and the champagne flows freely.

If you were to do a private performance for anyone in the world–living or deceased–who would be in the audience?

Marlena Dietrich, Jack Kennedy and Frank Sinatra.

You have a great set of male dancers you perform with. How do you pick them out? Do you audition them yourself?

Mikey Minden hand picked the boys and I must say he did a GREAT job.

Who are some of your favorite clothing designers?

Alexander McQueen,20John Galliano.

How did you get hooked up with Sheila E. (who plays percussion on the sexually charged “Time to Realize,” one of the four songs Erika co-wrote)? What was it like working with her?

Sheila was working down the hall and I asked Peter Rafelson to introduce us because I’m such a fan and we became friends. Having her on my album is simply amazing.

You are a very well-traveled woman. What are some of the most memorable places you’ve been?

Hanoi, Vietnam was quite interesting. Tanzania was amazing and Managua, Nicaragua was the scariest.

What are your top 20 favorite songs at the moment?

1. deadmau5 “Attention Whore” - Provocative lyrics on top of a hot track.
2. Madonna “Lucky Star” - That’s my girl.
3. Frank Sinatra “My Way” - Is there any other way?
4. Eric B and Rakim “Paid in Full” - Rakim is amazing.
5. Louis Prima “Jump Jive an’ Wail” - I feel like dancin’!!!!
6. The Doors “LA Woman” - I’m an LA woman and I like it.
7. Buckcherry “Crazy Bitch” - No explanation necessary.
8. Patsy Cline “Walking After Midnight” - Tough broad, smooth voice.
9. LMFAO “I’m in Miami Bitch” - When I want to escape.
10. Isley Brothers “Between The Sheets” - My favorite place to be….
11. Teddy Bears “Cobra Style” - Make me wanna party.
12. Samuel Barber “Adagio for Strings, op. 11” - Pure harmonic genius and tragic romance at it’s finest.
13. Motley Crue “Girls, Girls, Girls” - Being bad gets a bad rap.
14. Edith Piaf “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien” - Brilliant.
15. Backstreet Boys “I Want It That Way” - Pure unadulterated pop—Love it.
16. Bon Jovi “You Give Love a Bad Name” - Love the 80’s!!!
17. Queen “Fat Bottomed Girls” - Freddy always turned it out .
18. The Rolling Stones “Honky Tonk Woman” - Brings out the trash in all of us.
19. Notorious BIG “Juicy” - Gone too soon.
20. Michael Jackson “Billie Jean” - Simply the greatest, period.

http://www.erikajayne.com/

www.myspace.com/erikajaynemusic

Posted via email from thelareport's posterous

LAFF: LAFFING, LOVING, LIVING LEGENDS ("LOUD"), LIVELY LOUNGE AT LA's LEADING LOLLAFILMFESTIVALOOZA

Festival Recap by Don Rose

LAFFING: there were comedies galore at this year's fest. "Cold Souls" was the hottest Dark SciFantasyComedy of the fest (okay, the only one), and the director said it was inspired by a dream she had in which she and Woody Allen are in a waiting room holding boxes containing their souls. (Dream analysis, anyone?) Paul Giamatti stars as himself; after undergoing a procedure to store his soul, it winds up getting smuggled out of the country and into a female actress who suddenly displays his great acting prowess. (Yes, the plot is kinda Kaufmanesque.)

LOVING: the LAFF is known for showcasing quirky tales of attraction action, and this year brought unique love stories. For example, "Paper Heart" (starring buzzworthy actors Michael Cera and Charlyne Yi) and "Paper Man" (the Jeff Daniels / Ryan Reynolds dramedy that gets The LA Report's Find of the Fest award), which kept audiences elated and enthralled.

LIVING LEGENDS: several made appearances, both live and onscreen, especially those in the (artificial yet artful) category Music Legends In Documentaries. Two living Doors (Ray Manzarek and Robbie Krieger) attended a screening of the new Doors doc "When You're Strange" (my favorite film of the fest). And there was white-haired Jimmy Page and Jack White at the premiere of the doc that features Page, White and The Edge -- "It Might Get Loud" -- as well as at the afterparty held at the Hotel Palomar (a spiffy recently-opened hotel at the corner of Wilshire and Selby, with a superb restaurant that served delicious sliders and other delectables at the party). In the arena of sports, "Facing Ali" featured many legends of yesteryear; this doc showcases the select group of boxers who took on the best boxer ever, and now share what it was like to fight The Greatest.

LOUDNESS: In addition to "It Might Get Loud" there was the loud (and now lucrative) sequel of "Transformers" to transfix festivalgoers' eyes and ears. And at the Ford Amphitheatre, "Soul Power" served up some soul-shaking sounds in its tale of the superstar R&B concert that took place at the time of the 1974 Zaire Ali-Foreman fight (yes, Ali was one recurring theme of this year's fest).

LIVELY LOUNGE: The Zone Perfect lounge was the central meeting/partying point during
this year's LAFF. Loved the interactive word wall and painting area. On one especially lively night, actress/comedienne Charlyne Yi showed she is a musician too (one with many rough yet endearing edges) as she rocked the lounge with her eclectic duo Glass Beef. Matt Nathanson also rocked the Lounge, on the final evening, as part of a special VH1 Save the Music night.

LLYN's LORE: at a Reel Talk event held poolside at the W Hotel (the first of 3 such panels over 3 consecutive days), lore about days of yore came forth from artist Llyn Foulkes, who was perhaps the most passionate of the panelists at this panel on art and design in film. He talked of a pivotal point in his art career when, instead of selling out like some others did, he took a different, less-lucrative road in order to keep true to his art - and heart. Was there a tinge of regret in his voice, or was it pride in pursuing the path he ultimately forged over the path of easy money? Hard to tell, but moments like that kept the panel in high thought-provoking gear, and proved that drama is not just found in the films of a festival.

LAFF's LEADING LIST: Leaving LAFF leads some to ask, "what were LAFF's hottest films?" Hard to decide, but here is The LA Report's Excellent Eight: Paper Man, Paper Heart, Cold Souls, Soul Power, No Impact Man, When You're Strange, It Might Get Loud, Facing Ali. These got the most buzz and crowds. However, there were dozens more movies just as heartfelt at the fest and, with time, may garner just as much attention.

All in all, LAFF 2009 was a well-run and supremely entertaining film festival, and we highly recommend you attend LAFF 2010 next summer. (Our one suggestion for timely retro programming next year: a screening of "2010", the sequel to "2001"; while it may not enjoy the classic status of the original, it's still a stellar film!)

NEW "LOOKIN' TO GET OUT" ASHBY CUT SCREENS AT ALL-STAR EVENT AS JON VOIGHT, ANN-MARGRET, BURT YOUNG, HASKELL WEXLER REUNITE FOR PANEL; DVD OUT JUN 30

Event Review by Don Rose

It was the perfect coda to the just-ended LA Film Festival. Officially, the Hammer Museum event was billed as a screening of LOOKIN' TO GET OUT, the 1982 film directed by Hal Ashby. By the time it took place, the night had blossomed into an all-star tribute to the late director -- another triumph for UCLA's "Archive Treasures", which "showcases works from the UCLA Film & Television Archive's extensive collection, ... rarely screened gems presented in original and restored prints." The packed audience on June 29 enjoyed the first public screening of a director's cut of Lookin' to Get Out with never-before-seen footage put back in. Recently discovered at the Archive by Nick Dawson - author of "Being Hal Ashby: Life of a Hollywood Rebel" - this version represents Ashby's original, intended cut before Lorimar Productions took control of the film and released its own version in theaters 27 years ago. This version reveals Ashby, an Oscar-winning editor (In The Heat of the Night) and director (Coming Home), working at the top of his game, and will make its Warner Home Video DVD debut on Tuesday, June 30.

**UPDATE: NICK DAWSON INTERVIEWED ON KCRW'S "THE TREATMENT" 230pm JULY 1, 89.9 FM**

Starring Jon Voight, who co-wrote the script with Alan Schwartz, Lookin' to Get Out follows "beautiful losers" Alex (Voight) and Jerry (Burt Young), who flee New York for Las Vegas with two vicious loan sharks on their tail. After Alex scams their way into a penthouse at the MGM Grand and a stack of chips on credit -- with the unwitting help of Alex's ex-girlfriend (Ann-Margret) -- the two buddies set their sights on the big score but fate comes calling. On his fourth outing with cinematographer Haskell Wexler, Ashby revels in exposing the glittering facades of Vegas, but where his most celebrated films engage the larger zeitgeist through irony and humor, here Ashby narrows focus to burrow deep into the nature of personal loyalty and friendship. As the obsessive-compulsive gambler Alex, Voight delivers a fun, lively, energetic performance that pairs well with Young's understated Jerry. Voight says this of the discovery of the new extended version: "For various reasons, the film we released didn't really represent Hal's best work. I knew every version of the script and every cut, so I was understandably excited when I heard about this, yet I also didn't want to be disappointed. But when I saw it, I knew instantly it had Hal's touch. The way he took all the elements and made it his own, it was almost like we were working together again. When Hal Ashby cut his films himself, it was magic.

The trajectory of Ashby's career turns sharply from the phenomenal promise and success of the 1970s -- The Landlord, Harold and Maude, The Last Detail, Coming Home, Being There -- to the self-destruction and decline of the 1980s. The special screening on June 29 presented a version of Lookin' to Get Out that adds a wrinkle to this critical divide between Ashby's early and later works. The film also has the distinction of featuring a very young Angelina Jolie, Voight's daughter, in her acting debut - as the daughter of Voight's character.

The Ashby evening at the Hammer was wonderful all around. It began with a reception and book signing by Ashby biographer Dawson in the courtyard. Then everyone moved to the Billy Wilder Theatre, where Voight shared a few heartfelt comments before the film. After the screening, one of the best panels ever gathered at the Hammer took the stage, an all-star reunion of the film's primary creative forces: actor/screenwriter Voight; co-screenwriter Schwartz; actress Ann-Margret; actor Young; and cinematographer Wexler. Dawson also joined the panel, which was moderated by screenwriter-director Curtis Hanson. Other actors and creatives involved with this film and other Ashby works were in attendance, and Voight asked them to stand up and receive recognition; to my surprise, it seemed like half the audience stood up. Legendary casting director Lynn Stalmaster was there, who said a few words, as did Ashby's daughter; three other main actors from Lookin' to Get Out (the loan sharks and the casino owner) were also in the audience, as was Voight's son.

LOOKIN' TO GET OUT (1982). Directed by Hal Ashby. Lorimar Productions. Producer: Robert Schaffel, Edward Teets. Screenplay: Al Schwartz, Jon Voight. Cinematographer: Haskell Wexler. Cast: Jon Voight, Ann-Margret , Burt Young, Bert Remsen, Jude Farese. HDcam, 105 min. Extended version released by Warner Home Video on DVD Tuesday, June 30, 2009.

TLR BEST BET: "FUEL"; DOCUMENTARY, OPENING FEB 13, IS A MUST-SEE OSCAR-WORTHY JOY THAT INSPIRES, EDUCATES AND MAY JUST "FUEL" A REVOLUTION

Event/Film Review by Don Rose

Go see "Fuel"! In theatres! This weekend if possible! Spread the word!
Why am I so excited? Read on...

The new documentary "Fuel" was screened at a special VIP event February 11th to a lively crowd of folks who, after braving the cold temps to watch the film, gave it rousing cheers. A panel discussion followed, moderated by the host of Air America's "Hollywood Clout" talk show, Richard Greene, featuring the film's director, Josh Tickell, as well as actor Peter Fonda. The event was held in the perfect spot (Brentwood's Conserv Fuel station, which sells both old-school gasoline and its better-for-environment cousin featured in "Fuel", Bio Diesel). During the evening, libations were served (including drinks from one of The LA Report's favorite companies, Steaz - love their Peach Ice Tea!), as well as samplings of hot tea, healthy savory snacks and sweet treats. Other celebs and notables in attendance, in addition to Greene and Fonda, included actor James Cromwell, and Lisa Garr, host of KPFK's excellent program, The Aware Show (http://www.theawareshow.com/).

The LA Report highly recommends that everyone go see this film, and tell ten others to do the same. This weekend is the best time to go, for at least 3 reasons: (1) the director will be appearing here in LA, and it is inspiring to hear Josh speak; (2) a strong opening weekend box office will help keep the film in theatres, and (3) big tix sales will show Hollywood that audiences are hungering for this kind of movie experience: enlightening while entertaining, informative while inspirational.

To convey a sense of this film's importance and quality, I consider "Fuel" to be a cinematic soul-brother to "An Inconvenient Truth" and every bit its equal (one of that film's producers, Laurie David, even appears in "Fuel"). Tickell's film also deserves to follow the same path as "...Truth" to win the Oscar for Best Documentary. To go a bit further with this analogy, "Fuel" could be considered the intellectual heir of "An Inconvenient Truth" and "Fahrenheit 911", integrating and inheriting some of the techniques, controversies and narrative power of both films into a new whole. I think we will look back at these three films as this decade's daringest documentaries, and its most politically potent. The top trio of the "Oh-Oh" years.

While all three of these docs are highly entertaining while conveying important information, "Fuel" strikes me as a bit more concrete and hopeful. It not only packs Bio-Diesel-truckloads of information for us to learn, but masterfully illustrates concrete steps that we the people, as well as cutting edge companies, can take and are already taking to solve the immense problems we face in the arena of power generation and consumption. BioDiesel, BioMass, Solar, Plugin Hybrids, Wind, even a kind of "Algae Energy" -- all these technologies are presented and shown to be viable options NOW, TODAY, not in some nebulous future. Even the end credits are packed with specific steps we can take to make a better world. By film's end, I felt for the first time that, my God, these persistent questions of can-we-get-off-polluting-fuels and what-ways-work actually have a positive answer: a combination of existing technologies that bright minds are already putting to work. It's not pie-in-the-sky Polly-Anna pipe dreams, it's real working solutions that come together to show how we can get off polluting power for good and get on with the green memes -- solutions already proven to be an economically plausible path to a sustainable world.

In short, "Fuel" shows us what our best and brightest future can be. We just have to claim it. Other countries are doing it (Sweden, for one, plans to be totally off fossil fuels by 2020 -- talk about 20/20 vision), and we can join the conscious caravan too. "Fuel" shows us the roadmap, and inspires us by showing we can get to the desired destination, powered by a combination of private investment plus more intelligent use of government resources (like, say, no more $300 million per day for an Iraq war that only gives us access to foolish fuels that kill us, for instance).

So, big kudos to director Josh Tickell for a stellar achievement, one which may just "Fuel" a revolution in our thinking about how we can solve our energy woes while also saving the planet -- and ourselves. Everyone should see this film. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

In fact, Peter Fonda proposed a great idea during the post-screening panel. He plans to buy lots of tickets and give them to friends so they can see this great movie. Smart idea. By pre-buying packs of passes, he can boost ticket sales opening weekend while making it easier for his friends to see the film. Just the kind of win-win idea this film is filled with. And with Valentine's Day arriving the day after "Fuel" opens, I can't think of a better gift for one's loved ones.

Special thanks to Dawna Shuman and Nicole Landers, who put on a great event, as they always do; they have earned a well-deserved reputation as the preeminent PR team for green-oriented eco-conscious events in Los Angeles.

Feb. 13, 2009: opening day for documentary "Fuel". Check local listings for times and locations. Website: www.theFUELfilm.com. Film features director Josh Tickell as well as Woody Harrelson, Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, Neil Young, Julia Roberts, Richard Branson, Larry Hagman and more in an intellectual and emotional powerhouse that is a cinematic cousin to "An Inconvenient Truth," "Fahrenheit 911" and "Who Killed the Electric Car." A TLR BEST BET.

EVENT REPORT: ECO GIFT FESTIVAL 2008 (BEST BET FOR 2009)

Posted by Don Rose

Once again, the Eco Gift Festival was held mid-December at the Santa Monica Civic and was a huge success. Over 9800 attendees soaked up the sights and sounds, partaking in organic culinary delights, learning about green products, buying ecofriendly gifts, and meeting like-minded caring eco-individuals. Tommy Rosen and Eco Gift LLC presented the groundbreaking event, offering consumers one-stop shopping with over 150+ leading green companies presenting innovative green gifts, plus an Organic Food Court, Children's Stage, live music and a Speaker Series with leading Eco-Preneurs and Visionaries.

Many celebs came by and/or performed during the weekend of the fest, including Jackson Browne, Lisa Ling, Arianna Huffington, Daphne Zuniga, Val Kilmer, Stephen Collins, Faye Grant and more. Jackson appeared unexpectedly to perform with Tom Freund. Lisa is building an eco-friendly, solar-paneled home and attended to check out new alternative products to enhance an eco-living lifestyle.

Speakers included: Arianna Huffington (Founder-Huffington Post), Michael Brune (Executive Director-Rainforest Action Network), Josh Tickell (award-winning filmmaker "Fuel"), Shallom Berkman (Founder-Urth Caffe), Blake Mycoskie (Founder, Tom's Shoes), Eco-designer Linda Loudermilk, Tom Szaky (Co-Founder TerraCycle), Susan Olsen, aka Cindy Brady on the Children's stage. John Marshall Roberts ("Igniting Inspiration, A Persuasion Manual for Visionaries") Mallika Chopra "The Power of Intent to Affect Global Wellness" plus more.
Musical performances included: Tom Freund, Chris Pierce, Jillian Speer and The Luminaries.

Some of the many wonderful vendors Included:

- Tom’s Shoes - Toms shoes was born in 2006. The concept being simple: You buy a pair of shoes from Toms- they donate a pair to a child in need. In November, 2007, Tom's Shoes hand placed 50,000 pair of shoes on children in South Africa.

- Terracycle – Tom Szaky, Founder, coined the term “Upcycling.” Takes garbage and “upcycles it” into products.

- Cool Planet Jewelry – Founder Jerry Cope has created a line of Jewelry (Recycled Silver,
Gold and Platinum) and gives 100% of his profits to stopglobalwarming.org.

- Solio – Solar Powered Chargers that power your handheld devices and computers.

- To-Go Ware - Ever go to a deli and need a plastic fork, knife spoon? To-Go Ware founder has stylish and beautiful bamboo flatware that you take with you wherever you go. NEVER USE PLASTIC AGAIN!

- Lucky Earth Waterless Carwash – Just like it sounds. Wash your car without water. The LA Report especially loves this product and concept.

- New Leaf Paper – Saving trees with every sheet.

- Linda Loudermilk – Eco Fashion Pioneer with a significant brand awareness.

- Mr. Ellie Pooh – Paper Products made out of Elephant Poop in order to protect the
endangered Elephant Population.

And, by the way, the Festival was a 'zero waste' event, meaning they truly practice what they preach. 10% of the profits from the show will be donated to select Los Angeles charities, including GLOBAL GREEN USA.

The LA Report gives the Eco Gift Festival a Best Bet rating (in other words, don't miss it when it returns in December 2009!).

EVENT REPORT: GENART FASHIONABLY NATURAL & FRESH FACES IN FASHION 2008; TWO BACK-TO-BACK NIGHTS OF FASHION SHOWS AND AFTERPARTIES ROCK THE PETERSEN

by Harrison Held

At Genart's Fashionably Natural event (held on October 9, 2008), Maggie Gyllenhaal and SOYJOY definitely brought this boy joy -- as did Mandy Moore the following night when she was the celebrity host of the 11th Annual Fresh Faces in Fashion, another stellar Genart event always held at the start of LA Fashion Week. Both happenings were held at the beautiful Petersen Auto Museum in Los Angeles, always a great place for A-List events.

During the October 9 event, the effervesecent, lovely and talented "Ms. G." had the honor of introducing the eco-friendly spring '09 beautiful collections of Velvet Leaf, Brigid Catiis, Popomomo and The Battalion. The show was great, the event was fun and upbeat with great music by DJ Pesce, the eats and drinks were good and there was a kind of almost wholesome, organic vibe in the air as the beautiful models walked the catwalk. And those SOYJOY bars are good -- healthy, delicious and low calorie!

"Ms. M" (photo left) was equally as lovely the next night as she introduced, for women, the dynamic fashions of LAEKEN, Maxine Dillon, Nanushka, PEONIE, Quail and WAYF -- and for men, K.Z.O. and Wayne Hadly.

Both shows were great successes. Fashionably Natural brought out celebs like Willa Holland, Vanessa Brand, tennis player Katya Decker-Sadowski, Miss USA 2007 Rachel Smith, Christine Lakin, Katie Chonacas, Andrew Roach and Krysten Ritter to name a few. On the red carpet I pondered if Ms. Ritter was a relative of the late great John Ritter; "No" I was told... and coicidentally, seated near me at the show was lovely British Vogue writer Davida Deutsch Hall who I found out used to go to school with Jason Ritter and knew John too. Small world...

Celebs attending the FFiF event on October 10 included the Pussycat Dolls' Carmit Bachar, designer Katie Rodriguez (who received a special award to kick off the evening), Carly Craig, George Blodwell, The Rad Girls, Lloyd Klein, Tony Alva, Hope Dworayck and back for a second night Katja Decker-Sadowski looking gorgeous in black with her pal Jason Wahler. Rockin' music was provided by DJ Jasepi and cute hats supplied by Goorin Bros.

It was a total surprise and a blast to see my pal model Gaston Willig up on the runway and always great running into celeb photog Byron Purvis, a very talented host, actor and voice over artist as well. Thanks to Genart for the great event, and thanks to Carl Lindstrom for the nice photos on 944.com.

Event Report courtesy of Harrison Held; see his website at HarrisonHeldStarMedia.com. Story edited by Don Rose. Special thanks to EMG PR (Evolutionary Media Group) for their assistance on these and many other excellent events.

SEP18-20: Debbie Durkin's MAIN EVENT RED CARPET LOUNGE, PLATFORM MEDIA GROUP and LOS ANGELES CONFIDENTIAL present the Celebrity Green Gifting Chateau

The three day Chateau welcomes celebrities, VIPs and media to celebrate Sunday's Primetime Emmys, while benefiting the Environmental Media Association and The Creative Coalition

Featured Event Listing compiled by Don Rose

Durkin Entertainment Group continues its successful series of events co-located with major awards and festivals (for example, the Oscars and Sundance) with its Celebrity Green Gifting Chateau, which celebrates the 60th Primetime Emmys being held Sunday in Los Angeles. Honoring the 2008 Emmy nominees, presenters, and past winners on September 18-20 at a private, multimillion dollar Beverly Hills Estate, the Celebrity Green Gifting Chateau partners with Los Angeles Confidential magazine and Platform Media Group to produce a 100% sustainable, private, charity event that keeps on giving.

Some of the companies/services featured at the three day Chateau event include:

Brazilian Best Hotels/Kiaroa Eco Luxury Resort trips
Organic To Go Chefs
Solar/Hybrid Cruise Cars shuttling Celebrities/Media/VIP guests
PURE Eco-Designer furniture
Salah of Beverly Hills designer gowns
Global Health and wellness products
Lamborghini jewelry, sunglasses, and watches
Dick DeLaCruz designer golf putters
Good Attitude environmental cleaning products
Day Spa beauty services with organic skincare products
Bronzetique spray tanning, which will pamper guests each day
Eco-fashions
Eldergods Organic Skin Care line (see full story below)
and
Celebrity Portraiture Studio by Wire Image photographer Michael Bezjian where guests can sit for a portrait while learning more about Going Green.

Another highlight of the event involves the Environmental Media Association (EMA), which will be collecting cell phones for recycling. Cell phones contain toxic parts and must be properly recycled. A portion of the proceeds from recycling will go to help fund EMA's programs. Eco-conscious guests can bring in old cell phones and help raise money for the environment. A percentage of Sponsor proceeds will be donated to the EMA.

Another charity element of the Chateau is the Celebrity Poker Challenge hosted by NewPoker.com to benefit The Creative Coalition, which will take place on Friday, Sep. 19 from 9PM -1AM, dealt by The Dealer Dolls. Fabulous prizes await some lucky players.


RELATED STORY: Eldergods Inc. Launches Organic Skin Care Line at Celebrity Green Gifting Chateau

Make-up Artist creates liquid moisturizers with matte finish for face and body

Eldergods Inc.'s new line of liquid moisturizers, including Nectar and Etiquette, will be featured products at this year's Emmy Awards at Debbie Durkin's Main Event Red Carpet Lounge and Green Suite/Celebrity Green Gifting Chateau produced by Durkin Entertainment.

In 2005, while working as a make-up artist on a TV series, Susan Hayward, Founder and President of Eldergods Inc., confronted the challenge that led to the creation of her new skin care line. "One of the actresses was suffering from severely dry skin because of acne medication," says Hayward. "She was hesitant to use a moisturizer because it felt heavy on her skin and she was concerned about breakouts. I had to get creative to cover the issue and make her HD camera ready."

That's when she began concept and production of Nectar and Etiquette -- lightweight, fast absorbing, spray on face and body moisturizers that dry matte. Since then, Hayward has used the line on various film, television and advertising shoots.

Julia Valente, a 20-year industry make-up veteran is currently using the line on the set of the TV series Going South. "We're shooting in HD, and the first day that I used Nectar on the lead actress, who has mature skin, the director noticed a difference in the smoothness and suppleness of her skin. With the volume of products available, it's great to have one created by someone who understands the industry, that's natural and organic and that preps the skin as beautifully as Nectar does."

Nectar is for normal to slightly dry skin, with a textured scent. Etiquette is for normal to oily skin, with a lighter, more citrus fragrance. All product ingredients are certified organic, organic or wild harvested. Alcohol, solvent and nut-free, the products are also not tested on animals.
"The majority of face and body moisturizers are either cream or oil-based," says Hayward. "Liquid with a matte finish is a whole new concept in moisturizing. You can use this product and avoid feeling greasy or coated. So it's great for both the industry and the discerning woman who wants one high end yet versatile product."

Nectar and Etiquette can be purchased online at www.eldergodsinc.com or at selected retailers. Make-up artists, hair stylists and wardrobe stylists can apply online for an industry discount card, offering 40% off of online purchases. For more information, please contact Susan Hayward at susan @ eldergodsinc.com or 416-828-2782 .

CONTACT INFORMATION for the Celebrity Green Gifting Chateau

Event Sponsorship/Poker Players: Debbie Durkin, producer: maineventlounge @ gmail.com or call 310-403-8834

Celebrity RSVP/Spa Appts: Carlos Mata, assistant to the producer: josec.mata @ gmail.com

Media/Celebrity Appts: (By invitation only) Henry Eshelman: heshelman @ platformgrp.com

ABOUT DEBBIE DURKIN

Debbie Durkin is a TV/Film Brand Integration Producer whose recent credits include Nat'l Lampoon's Cattle Call, Blades of Glory, Rocky Balboa, The Bonnie Hunt Show, and Sundance Celebrity Swag Hunt. Debbie has been producing live events since 1975 when doing Public Relations for the NFL/ Chicago Bears as the owner of one of the top Modeling & Talent Agencies in Chicago/Beverly Hills for over 20 years. Debbie received the 2007 Appreciation Award from spcaLA Friends for Life where she and her dog are an Animal Assist -Therapy Team. Main Event Red Carpet Lounges and Green Suites have raised over $13K for Charities since 2007. For more information about Debbie Durkin and the events she produces, please visit www.durkinentertainmentgroup.com.

ABOUT EMA

Environmental Media Association is a non-profit 501(c)3 founded in 1989 by Cindy and Alan Horn and Lyn and Norman Lear. EMA's network of environmentally-conscious celebrities, tastemakers, not-for-profit organizations and corporations continues to be one of our greatest assets. From Hollywood royalty to the hottest new celebrities to cutting-edge businesses that work towards environmental change every day, EMA is a powerful force that brings powerful people together on the path to a healthier planet. EMA puts the public in touch with Hollywood's most in-demand environmentalists. www.ema-online.org

ABOUT TCC

The Creative Coalition ( TCC ) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity organized by prominent figures in the creative community for the purpose of bringing together people in the arts and letters in order to learn about pressing issues so they can better inform the community and nation. www.thecreativecoalition.org.

PUNK ROCK BBQ, LIQUID KITTY, WEST LA, AUG 17 2008 (EVENT REPORT)

by Don Rose

Punk rock ain't dead, it just moved to West LA.

The annual Punk Rock BBQ returned to Liquid Kitty on August 17, 2008. Once again, the small-but-popular Westside eatery/bar provided grub for guests (hot dogs, steak, buns, tortillas and fixins), plus (as the poster says) "cheap beer." Bands aplenty kept the punk popping and pumping all day and into the early eve.

We especially dug the "Punk Sucks" T-shirt one dog-downing dude donned for the party, and the perambulations of the headlining band's lead singer, who repeatedly ventured into the audience to shower (or is it spit and spew?) his vocal stylings on the packed crowd. The pics below capture both dudes, and more. Note that the singer moved so fast, a strange blur-image resulted (after my Nokia 6263 cell cam gave a valiant effort to keep up), but we think the overall final effect is kinda cool.

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.)

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/.