FOR A PERFECT JULY FOURTH CAMERA, IT'S GENIUS! GENIUS PUTS HIGH DEFINITION VIDEO AND MORE IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND WITH NEW HD DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA

Weighing under 6-oz and priced under $150, the Genius G-Shot HD520 offers 11-megapixel stills and HD video with H.264 compression format for exceptional quality output to today’s high-resolution flat panel TVs

posted by Don Rose

Genius (http://www.geniusnetusa.com), a brand division of KYE Systems Corp., has announced a new compact, pocket-size high-definition digital video camera that excels at capturing both high-resolution stills (at 11-megapixels) and high-definition video (at 5-megapixel in MPEG-4/H.264 format) and is light enough (under 6-ozs) and portable enough to allow users to capture activities anytime, anywhere. This easy-to-use camcorder is ideal for Summer outings, July Fourth celebrations, vacations, or for anyone looking to capture life’s moments in brilliant color and detail. The recently-launched G-Shot HD520 is both Windows (Vista/XP/2000) and Mac (OS10 or higher) compatible and designed with an ultra-bright 2.5” LTPS LCD screen that can rotate up to 270-degrees to allow users to shoot videos from any angle or position.

The G-Shot HD520 comes equipped with Face Detection to track and detect faces accurately as well as Electronic Image Stabilizers (EIS) to detect and correct hand-shaking when shooting photos. The handheld camcorder has a built-in memory of 32MB and supports additional HCSD memory up to 8GB. The G-Shot easily outputs to today’s high-resolution flat-panel televisions using the included HDMI cable for theatre-like viewing or video and photos can be easily uploaded to a computer for digital editing, archiving or sharing with friends. Additionally, the Z-Lighting technology enhances brightness in low-light environments, perfect for summer sunsets on the beach.

This versatile G-Shot camera is also capable of shooting still photos (up to 11 megapixels), listening to music, reading e-books, playing voice recordings, and it can even be used as a portable media player. Truly a multimedia device, at a price that's nice (a mere $149). Although it does many tasks, this little wonder won't drag you down. It weighs under 6-ounces. But wait, there's more: the camera comes complete with a 7.1 mm lens, a 5X digital zoom, and a Li-ion rechargeable battery.

Interested shoppers can go to NewEgg.com, Amazon.com, Tiger Direct, Buy.com or other retailers and distributors listed at http://www.geniusnetusa.com/buy.php. More information on all of Genius’ headphones and products at http://www.geniusnetusa.com.

ABOUT KYE SYSTEMS CORP.

Genius was established in 1985. Genius product portfolio includes computer mice, keyboards, web and security cameras, speakers, gaming peripherals, remote controls, headphones, digital cameras, digital camcorders and digital photo frames. It also holds the U.S. patent for mouse scroll-wheel technology. In 2007 Genius announced a newly invented optical touch-controlled scroll-wheel for fast browsing of web pages and documents in eight directions. Genius expanded from computer peripherals into consumer electronic products that include mobile phone accessories, Bluetooth headsets, digital cameras, digital photo frames, iPod speakers and MP4 players.

FRED & FRIENDS: FRESH FUN FUNCTIONAL PRODUCTS, VERY COOL DESIGNS (NEW BRAND, AVAILABLE AT BLACK MARKET)

by Don Rose

Black Market (stores in West Los Angeles and Long Beach) sent a recent email about a new brand: Fred & Friends. The LA Report loves these products -- some of the funnest yet functional designs we've seen in a while (assuming funnest is an actual word). Take a look.

Top Left: ICE INVADERS™ a close encounter of the frozen kind - Did you spend a good portion of your childhood (and your allowance) blasting 2-dimensional aliens to smithereens? Now you can freeze those precious moments in time with Ice Invaders. 100% pure silicone, oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, raygun-safe! Peggable clear boxes. ©2009 FRED

Top Right: ONE MAN TRY™ Mr. P, the human tape dispenser - Mr. P is always getting himself into sticky situations. In this case, the solution is simple - just pull the end of the tape from Mr. P's mouth, and tear out what you need with his serrated shoes. Voila! One Man Try is packaged in a recyclable cardobard box. Design: Propaganda ©2006 PROPAGANDA & FRED

Middle Left: SNACK & STACK™ take along utensils - The silicone handles of these mid-size utensils lock together securely for easy storage and packing, not to mention endless amusement. Perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, your desk drawer or glove box. Each set of three is packed in a peggable recyclable clear box. Design: Winnif Pang ©2008 FRED

Middle Right: FEET FIRST: MANHOLE MATS™ street style for your home - Manhole Mats are clever visual puns. They're great graphic designs. They're reproductions of some of the world's great manhole covers. They're 24" diameter, nylon flocked, super durable, indoor/outdoor floor mats. Street style for your home! FEET FIRST mats are made from 100% recycled truck tires with durable nylon flocking, usable indoors or out, washable, durable, and endearing. Design: Jason Amendolara ©2005 FRED (*Black Market only has the City of Los Angeles Sanitary Sewer Manhole Mat in stores)

Bottom Left: CHOPSTICK KIDS™ chinese with ease - Having trouble taming your chopsticks? You're not alone. You could practice for a few more years or you could just call the Chopstick Kids for help. These soft, washable, food-safe hinges really keep your chopsticks in line and add an element of fun to the dining experience. And they're not just for kids either - Fred uses them himself! The assorted Boy and Girl styles stand around 2 3/4" tall, and are molded from food-grade silicone rubber, so they're dishwasher-safe. They come with a nice set of melamine chopsticks, or you can use them with your own - the openings at the bottom stretch to hold those break-wood chopsticks or even your nice ivory ones. Each set is packed in a handsome peggable clear box measuring around 7.5" x 2.5" x 1". Design: Liz Goulet Dubois ©2005 FRED

Bottom Right: 2-CARAT CUP™ ooh la latte! - Here's a great way to start the day - a graceful porcelain cup that adorns you with a sparkling solitaire diamond ring when you pick it up! But wait, here's the BEST part - we've packed the 2-Carat Cup in an elegant oversize jewelry box, so when you present it as a gift, all you see is the ring! A great cup, a terrific gift, a charming social expression -- this one's got it all. White porcelain with gold or platinum glaze and clear sparkling Swarovski crystal, individually boxed with removable wrapper. Design: Yusuke Fujinuma ©2008 FRED

Black Market LA: 2023/2025 Sawtelle Blvd. Los Angeles, California 90036, phone: 310-966-1555, fax: 310-966-1655. Black Market LB: 429 E. 1st Street. Long Beach, California 90802, phone: 562-628-2222, fax: 562-628-2236.

DAYTIME EMMY WINNERS "DAZZLED" AT BRITE SMILE’S SUPER SUITE IN BEVERLY HILLS; 2008 DAZZLING DAYTIME EMMY SUITE HOSTS TV STARS, CELEBS, VIPS AND MEDIA

Guests Treated To Luxury Services, Lifestyle Elegance and Great Gifts During Two Day Event

Event Report by Don Rose

(Beverly Hills) – On June 18-19, 2008, BriteSmile®, the world-famous and foremost leader in the teeth-whitening industry, opened its spa doors to host the 2008 Dazzling Daytime Emmy Suite to honor the television industry’s Daytime Emmy Nominated actors, presenters, major Daytime icons/personalities, film stars, producers and industry VIPs. Guests attending this intimate and unique “camera ready” suite in preparation for their red-carpet appearances enjoyed BriteSmile’s ultra-luxury new high-tech teeth whitening process, a plethora of top beauty services for him and her along with fabulous fashion, exotic trips, premium hotel stays, delectable goodies, exotic spirits and more!

Over 200 guests attended the exclusive 2-day suite including 2008 Daytime Emmy Winners, Jeanne Cooper (for Best Actress “Katherine Chancellor” Young & The Restless), Kristoff St. John (for Best Supporting Actor “Neil Winters” Young & The Restless) and Gina Tognoni (for Best Supporting Actress “Dinah Marler” Guiding Light). Adrienne Frantz, Amelia Heinle, Brandon Beemer, Nadia Bjorlin, Bryan Datillo, Crystal Chappell, Carolyn Hennesy, Christian LeBlanc, Don Diamont, Cindy Ambuehl, Darrin Brooks, Diedre Hall, Emily O’Brien, Ashley Jones, Greg Rikaart, Jason Cook, Judi Evans, Kate Linder, Kent King, Leann Hunley, Marcy Rylan, Mary Beth Evans, Melissa Archer, Melody Thomas Scott, Nicole Forrester, Patrika Darbo, Rachel Melvin, Tracey Bregman, Vail Bloom, Shawn Christian, and Tammin Sursock were among the bevy of stars who were treated to ‘the best of the best' products and services.

But the influx of celebs didn't stop there. Actors Ernie Hudson, James Wilder, Lou Ferrigno (the ORIGINAL Hulk!) and Maria Conchita Alonzo joined in on the fun, as did Angie Everhart, Omorosa, Traci Bingham, Reichen Lehmkuhl, Erin Hamilton, Lena Yada and 'Deal or No Deal' girls Leila Milani and Katie Cleary. KTLA reporter Sam Rubin received a teeth whitening, and Fox News' Christine Devine was, well, simply divine!

“I can’t believe I’m going to Spain – I’ve never been there,” said Diedre Hall when she was gifted with a 4 night stay at the Hotel Marques de Riscal. “We’re being treated like kings here – this suite has great stuff for men, too!” declared Kristoff St. John. “This was the best suite we have ever attended!” said Don Diamont. "This generosity is overwhelming!" said Ernie Hudson.

Of course, the many services and gifts provided in the Dazzling Daytime Emmy Suite were the real stars. Spa 415 provided facials for guests, while Nailtini provided picture perfect manicures. HAI Elite gave out their signature hair products (including hair dryers and irons for straightening hair without damaging/frizzing your cuticles). Sensual Mistique Lingerie showed off beautiful corsets, some of the best designs I've ever seen.

Eton of Sweden featured their sophisticated formal shirts (ideal for the red carpet or any other night on the town), including "slim cut" styles that are very flattering and flattening to the physique. The very friendly representative from Eton explained that the cotton they use is woven in a unique way to help prevent stretching and wrinkling. Eton also featured coordinating neckwear and cufflinks.

Glo To Sleep graciously gifted guests with their unique sleep-aid product. Shaped like oversized glasses but made with a very soft Nerf-like material, you put their product on over your eyes before going to bed, and the small lights inside guide you to a deeper and more restful sleep.

Other sponsors included Nicole Barr Belts, Hotel Marques de Riscal, Caribbean Escapes, Hotel Le Petit, The Cheesecake Factory, Poleci Couture Clothing, Beautorium, Porsche Design, Tarte Enbrightenmint, Twisted Silver, Choconella, Honest Tea, Fancy Flip Flops, Syrup Swimwear, Olivier Napa Valley Orange Honey Grilling Sauce, AIRA Signature Mink Eyelashes, Liz Alpert of Jewelry of The Spirit, Electric Body Healthy Skin Care®; Twin Magic Lashes, Friar Tux, The Charlie Lapson Collection (who showed off their signature handbags and clutches for the ladies and watches, plus beautifully crafted wallets and messenger bags for gentlemen), Heavenly Sinful Jewels; Lowd Suga’ Boutique Jewelry Designs handcrafted by “Days Of Our Lives” star Arianne Zucker; The Devani Couture Footwear Line; Model In A Bottle (our pick for best named product at the Suite!), Vinomex’s super premium Tequila; PAMA Pomegranate Liquer; Hypnotique Liquer and Fred water.

Refreshments were plentiful at the Suite as well. Aroma Café Culture provided the java and BODEGA provided the sin with the amazing chocolates they are famous for (including my favorite, the Dark Bark with Almonds, which is almost addicting). The two-day affair was catered by Michael Ferradine and Raymond Sage of Sage Restaurant and Lounge.

The 2008 'Dazzling Daytime Emmy Suite' was produced by Anita Talbert and Doris Bergman. Westside Today was the media sponsor.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cyclonic Cutting Zone^® Process

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TECH CHECK: ZONET MULTIFUNCTION MOUSEPAD

Zonet's Multimedia Multifunctional Mouse Pad - Model: ZUP8020

Here is a very cool product, especially in this age where devices that do many things are "in." Optimize your work (or fun!) space and give a touch of style to your computer with the Zonet ZUP8020 – a true "Multifunctional Mouse Pad." The Mouse Pad produces an ambient blue glow around its clear acrylic base when connected to the USB port. It’s integrated with a four-port USB 2.0 Hub, allowing you to connect extra USB peripherals such as a Webcam, Flash Drive, and other USB devices. With the Stereo Speakers and Microphone, it's ideal for music listening, online chatting, and voice conferencing.

Features:
• Illuminated acrylic base mouse pad with smooth surface
• Built-in 4-Port USB Hub, fully compliant with USB 1.1 and USB 2.0
• Built-in Stereo Speakers
• Built-In Headset and Audio connectors
• Microphone On/Off Switch
• Included Mini-microphone for voice conference and online chatting
• Plug & play, no driver needed
• Dimension: W248 x D123 x H18mm
• Cable length: 120cm

This Zonet product comes with a one year Manufacturer Warranty. We like the fact that, in addition to the ZUP8020 mousepad, you also get the Mini Microphone (or, if you're a fan of Austin Powers, a Mini-Mike!). We dig it at The LA report, and we think you will too.

TB HD: THE TERABYTE HARDDRIVE ERA IS HERE

Western Digital® 1TB 3.5" My Book™ World Edition Ethernet External Hard Drive.

Just one of many new "Terabyte Drives" that are here, or coming -- and coming down in price (generally in the $200-500 range, depending on size and brand).

Get used to seeing TB instead of GB, just as GB replaced MB as the HD (hard drive) standard.

A TeraByte is a thousand GigaBytes, or a million MegaBytes! That's a Mega-MegaByte!

In other words: 1000 MB = 1 GB, and 1000 GB = 1 TB. Yep, TB is the new GB.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2007, Part 3: EPOXYBOX ECO-CONSCIOUS GIFTS (SOLIO MINI SOLAR CHARGERS AND MORE, 10% OFF)

Email from Epoxybox:

Eco-GIFTS additional 10% off @ EPOXYBOX, open thru Monday afternoon!

We have collected an array of green and conscious gift giving that will fit any budget and any age. Open Every Day 'til Xmas! Many artists. Solar Flashlights (this company will send one flashlight to Refuge camps for EVERY flashlight purchased!); Surf Monks Amazing Turkish Eco-Fiber Robes; Solio Mini Chargers on Holiday Sale! Water Filtration Systems; Organic Cashmire Rugs; Electric Retro Scooters. Many more stocking stuffers and fashion items...check out our holiday blog! www.epoxybox.blogspot.com

Epoxybox is located on the SE corner of Abbot Kinney and Venice Blvd. in Venice, CA. 310-578-2100 -- www.epoxybox.com

DEC. 8: VON DUTCH ART AND TOY FAIR

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2007, Part 2: OOPSIE BABY CLEANER

This is one of The LA Report's favorite online ads of the 2007 holiday season. Makes you wonder how they got this picture, doesn't it? More info at: http://www.oopsiebabycleaner.com/

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2007, Part 1: NAPSTER HOLIDAY OFFER: FREE 1GB MP3 PLAYER W/ 1 YEAR NAPSTER-TO-GO SIGNUP

TECH CHECK: ScanSnap S300 Color Mobile Scanner

Technology Review by Bruce Braunstein, Writer, TheLAReport.com


Easy to use "one button" scanning. Just press the "SCAN" button and the ScanSnap S300 quickly captures both sides of documents, presenting images as they are meant to be seen.

The Fujitsu ScanSnap S300 provides a host of automatic image correction features to ensure great scanning results. Simply load a stack of documents into the hopper and press the "SCAN" button. The S300 automatically recognizes the size of each document, detects and corrects for skew, and shows images in their proper orientation with blank pages removed.

Instantly creates scans that can be searched by their content.

The ScanSnap S300 automatically converts scanned data into searchable PDF files that let you quickly and easily locate your images and find informa-tion contained within your documents using keyword searches.

A compact Mobile Scanning Solution.

At half the size of other ScanSnap scanners, the S300 is designed to be the smallest Fujitsu ADF scanner. As a mobile alternative, the ScanSnap S300 is compact enough to carry around and you will never have to worry about finding a spot to put it.

Holds up to 10 letter sheets at a time.

Double Sided Multi-Sheet Feeding. The ScanSnap S300 holds up to 10 sheets of paper in the automatic document feeder and scans up to 8 pages per minute.

Operates on USB bus power.

For added mobile convenience, the Fujitsu ScanSnap S300 can be powered though the PC’s USB port* when an AC power source is not available.
*When using the USB bus power cable, the PC must have two USB ports; one for power feeding and the other for USB cable connection.

Scans anything from thick business cards and postcards to legal size documents.

In addition to automatically recognizing document size, the ScanSnap S300 de-skews images, removes blank pages and shows them in their proper orientation. The ScanSnap S300 is also able to scan business cards and postcards that are thicker than normal (Up to 56 lb.)

Efficiently manage business cards and contact information.

Quickly scan business cards for fast and easy reference. Capture both sides of a business card in a single pass. Information on the business card is captured and can be exported to Outlook, CSV (Excel), and others.

BLONDE BOMBSHELL & FILM LEGEND MAMIE VAN DOREN LAUNCHES FINE WINE LINE IN LOS ANGELES

Screen Queen Van Doren Teams with Wine Country Cellars and the L.A. Press Club to Launch First Limited Edition of Collectible Mamietage® Wine Bottles at Boffo VIP/Press Reception at Elegant Eleven Restaurant

by Don Rose

(November 14, 2007 : West Hollywood - Los Angeles, CA) Mamie Van Doren held court tonight as a bevy of beauties - including actresses Rena Reffel (Showgirls), Lorielle New (Grindhouse), and former Playboy Playmate Carol Vitale - joined other celebs, VIPs and media to celebrate the release of a new series of wine bottles with a unique feature: each label on the 1.5 liter bottles feature one of three images of Mamie. Two of the images are of Mamie today, and the third image is from Mamie at age 21. The wine labels are unique in that they all feature nude poses of Mamie covered up by a top, clear "peel away" label that has stars strategically placed. Peel the label away, and there is Mamie nude. The peel away portion is attached, and can be replaced to its original position.

The wine is called Mamietage®, a Bordeaux blend from Sonoma County's Armida Winery, chosen by Mamie herself, with a limited production of only 2000 bottles of each image. Each of the 2000 bottles will be individually numbered.

"The delicious Bordeaux blend of Cabernet sauvignon, petite verdot, syrah and malbec was made and bottled by Armida Winery. This is a beautiful, rich wine with flavors of black cherry, vanilla, and a touch of chocolate. The light tannins and medium body give way to a long, fruit filled finish." SX Magazine Australia

Mamie Van Doren's early roles as a free-spirited teenager and, later, as a woman of the world, signaled the advent of the sexual revolution. The only surviving member of the trio of fifties blonde bombshells known as The Three M's — "Mamie, Monroe and Mansfield" — Mamie Van Doren carved a special niche for herself in cinema history, one which was very different from her peers. Though Mamie embodies Hollywood's Golden Age of the 50's, she refuses to live in the past and is as vivacious as ever, as her images above will clearly testify.

The L.A. Press Club, http://www.lapressclub.org/ - the oldest and most prestigious media membership organization in Southern California - recognized Mamie Van Doren once before, as their Miss Eightball in 1950. "I am so pleased to have the LA Press Club recognize me once again with my new wine venture. It seems like yesterday when I wore their Miss Eightball crown, when my studio career launched in the fabulous fifties," states Van Doren.

Armida Winery produced and bottled Mamietage® wine, and Armida wines were featured at the November 14th launch event, which took place at the beautiful West Hollywood eatery and bar called Eleven. Malkie, the charming Israeli woman who runs events at Eleven, encourages folks to consider their location for upcoming parties, and The LA Report recommends it, as the upstairs area Mamie used for her party is perfect for fun functions (we loved the fireplace, the open feel in front and the intimate back section perfect for creating a private VIP area).

A final note: one of the VIP guests at Mamie's wine launch party was popular Hollywood actor Harrison Held, who serves as host and producer of "The Ultimate Marilyn Trilogy," which celebrates that other famous fabulous fifties blonde bombshell! You can learn more about The Ultimate Marilyn Trilogy at http://www.harrisonheldstarmedia.com/.

Mamietage® is distributed exclusively by Armida Winery and Wine Country Cellars. A percentage of proceeds from the sale of the Mamietage® collection will benefit Mamie's favorite charity, the Aids Healthcare Foundation. For more information and images regarding the wine and Mamie Van Doren, please visit the web site at www.mamiewine.com. Eleven Restaurant is located in West Hollywood at 8811 Santa Monica Boulevard, corner of Larrabee - former site of the studio where music legend Prince recorded Purple Rain.

NOV. 12: 4TH ANNUAL TV DVD AWARDS

For 2007, Home Media Magazine presents its highly-anticipated awards ceremony and cocktail reception as a standalone event, honoring the best DVD releases of TV shows past and present

posted by Don Rose

Home Media Magazine's Fourth Annual TV DVD awards takes place this year on November 12, 2007. The best TV DVD releases of the past year, as selected by a national consumer vote, will be honored at a gala dinner and cocktail party, with surprise guests drawn from the ranks of legendary TV stars. HMM's event honors TV DVD releases that came to market between Sept. 1, 2006, and Sept. 30, 2007, focusing on the entire DVD treatment — transfer quality, sound and picture, menu design, ease of use, navigation, packaging and other elements relevant to the DVD.

Studios nominated entries in 16 categories:
Best 2000s Series
Best 1990s Series
Best 1980s Series
Best 1970s Series
Best 1960s Series
Best 1950s Series
Best Animated Series
Best Children’s Series
Best Reality Series
Best Variety Series
Best One-Season Wonder
Best Miniseries/Made-for-TV Movie
Best Foreign TV Release
Best Made-for-TV Documentary
Best Bonus Materials
Best Complete-Series Set.

A panel of DVD and film critics nominated three titles in each category. Voting was done by retailers and consumers through www.homemediamagazine.com and www.tvshowsondvd.com from Oct. 15 through Oct. 26, 2007. Winners will be announced at the TV DVD Awards celebration November 12th. The LA Report highly recommends this event, as it is not only a fun affair but also an intriguing look into the current and future trends in TV DVD -- one of the most popular segments of the DVD industry.

For more information on the TV DVD awards, please see www.dvdconferences.com.

HELP!, SEINFELD SEASON 9 DVDs RELEASED

HELP! was released Nov. 6, 2007 on DVD.
Trivia: the film's original title was "Eight Arms to Hold You."
Yep, the Beatles always knew how to hone and improve their material, even titles.
www.thebeatles.com

SEINFELD Season 9 was also released Nov. 6, 2007 on DVD!
With Exclusive Never-Before-Seen Bonus Footage.
www.sonypictures.com/seinfelddvd

GUITAR CENTER OPENS IN WEST LA WITH PACKED PARTY; GREAT DEALS ALL WEEKEND LONG

Guitar Center knows how to throw an opening party, as evidenced by its boffo bash November 1st, 2007 at its new store on the corner of Pico and Westwood Blvds. Hundreds lined Westwood Boulevard waiting for entry into the store. All got in, since the event was run in a refreshingly organized manner. Plus, everyone in the multi-age crowd got cool Guitar Center opening-day commemorative T-shirts.

Then there were the fun contests, raffles and bands (including the headliners, a band called The Graduate). Five lucky attendees (number 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 in line) got to compete for the chance to win prizes worth up to, get this, 100 grand! Yes, that is not a typo; it was possible for one of the lucky five onstage to walk away with $100,000 in a gameshow-style competition. Like Deal or No Deal, it was a luck-based contest, no trivia skill required - just pull envelopes off a gameboard and open, see if you win a giftcertificate for the store OR the chance to keep playing and win even more. Eventually, one man remained onstage, who pulled three envelopes from a final group of 12; if all three had the special Guitar Center symbol, he would win $100,000! Alas, he didn't, but the hundreds in gift certificates he won was a nice consolation prize.

On top of all this, many in the audience won prizes during two fun raffles (an amazing assortment of prizes that included iPods, Playstations, DVDs, Led Zeppelin and Dylan boxsets, home theatre systems, Cambridge Soundworks and Bose Wave radios, TVs and more), as well as random awarding of killer gear to various attendees. All in all, there were winners galore, and lots of Rockstar energy drinks for happy music lovers and musicians.

Now for the stuff in store for you in the store. Opening weekend deals include $99 blowout prices on three great products (Ibanez electric guitar, Yamaha acoustic guitar, Peavey trans-tube amplifier), $49 for a portable electric keyboard with built-in speakers, $9.99 for a keyboard stand, and $49 for THREE (yes, I said three) microphones. There are many more deals too numerous to list here, just head down to Pico and Westwood, across from the Westside Pavilion, and you will not be disappointed.

Among those in attendance on opening night were reps from Guitar Center, LA Weekly, Wahoo Tacos (serving tasty food to the hundreds on line to get in the store), Rockstar energy drinks (serving, among other flavors, its delicious JUICED drinks, a favorite of The LA Report), and KROQ. We also chatted with KCRW DJ (and head music guru of the KCRW music library) Erik J. Lawrence, host of KCRW's "Dragnet" show (midnight to 3am Monday nights / Tuesday mornings, 89.9 FM). EJL, who was attending not spinning, told us that the digitization of the incredible music library of the Santa Monica College station is proceeding nicely, thanks in part to some nifty robotic equipment.

Kudos to Guitar Center for a most memorable night featuring a healthy dose of fun and generosity. As store launches go, it was top of the line. Get yourself down to the new store and save some serious dough all this weekend. Saturday afternoon would be an especially good time, as you can meet KLOS FM host Cynthia Fox while you shop.

OCT. 30: BOB DYLAN LIVE AT NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL, DVD RELEASE

COLUMBIA/LEGACY ANNOUNCES THE EXCLUSIVE DVD RELEASE OF "THE OTHER SIDE OF THE MIRROR - BOB DYLAN LIVE AT THE NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL 1963 - 1965," PRODUCED & DIRECTED BY MURRAY LERNER

Columbia Records and Legacy Recordings will release on DVD, for the first time in any format, The Other Side Of The Mirror - Bob Dylan Live At The Newport Folk Festival 1963 - 1965, on Tuesday, October 30th. A long-awaited event for Bob Dylan aficionados, The Other Side Of The Mirror brings together more than 80 minutes of exquisitely filmed performances, 70% available here for the first time, drawn from three seminal years in the artist's ever-evolving career.

Produced and directed by Academy Award winner Murray Lerner (From Mao To Mozart: Isaac Stern In China), The Other Side Of The Mirror - Bob Dylan Live At The Newport Folk Festival 1963 - 1965 opens a window into a critical epoch in American cultural history as reflected in the musical transformations of Bob Dylan's galvanizing watershed performances at the Newport Folk Festival in 1963, 1964, and 1965.

"This is a different kind of film, in a sense, from what I usually make," said Murray Lerner. "We decided on no narration, no pundit interviews, no interviews with Dylan. Nothing except the experience of seeing him... . That to me is exciting. Just the clear experience gives you everything you need." The DVD includes liner notes from Grammy-winning author Tom Piazza.

Clip of Bob Dylan at the Newport Folk Festival in 1964
playing "Mr. Tambourine Man"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XRbeUnn-AUA

* * * * *
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE MIRROR
BOB DYLAN LIVE AT THE NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL 1963 - 1965
All I Really Want To Do (7/24/1965 - afternoon workshop)
1963
North Country Blues (7/26 afternoon workshop)
With God On Our Side (with Joan Baez - 7/26 afternoon workshop and 7/28 night performance)
Talkin' World War III Blues (7/26 night performance)
Who Killed Davey Moore? (7/27 afternoon workshop)
Only A Pawn In Their Game (7/26 night performance)
Blowin' In The Wind (with The Freedom Singers, Joan Baez, and Peter, Paul and Mary - 7/26 night performance)
1964
Mr. Tambourine Man (7/24 afternoon workshop)
It Ain't Me, Babe (with Joan Baez - 7/24 night performance)
With God On Our Side (with Joan Baez - 7/26 night performance)
Chimes Of Freedom (7/26 night performance)
1965
If You Gotta Go, Go Now (7/24 afternoon workshop)
Love Minus Zero/No Limit (7/24 afternoon workshop)
Daytime Rehearsal with his electric band
Maggie's Farm (with his electric band - 7/25 night performance)
Like A Rolling Stone (with his electric band - 7/25 night performance)
Mr. Tambourine Man (7/25 night performance)
It's All Over Now, Baby Blue (7/25 night performance)
Bonus Feature: Interview with director Murray Lerner

http://www.dylan07.com
http://www.bobdylan.com

EVENT REPORT: MILUS STORE OPENING AND LAUNCH PARTY

(October 21, 2007: Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA) Event Report by Don Rose

Milus opened its first US boutique today, in the heart of one of the most famous shopping destinations in the world, where celebrity sightings are an everyday occurrence. The Swiss watch brand's elegant shiny-white showroom is located at 342 N. Rodeo Drive, Suite 202. Milus USA is headed by President and CEO Doron Basha, who invited guests to a classy afterparty at nearby eatery/bar Aqua for an evening of live jazz (featuring famed singer and Milus Brand Ambassador Jane Monheit), as well as passed appetizers (mini Kobe burgers, chicken skewers with peanut sauce, tuna tacos), open bar and desserts (fruit-and-cream tarts and a chocolate confection).


Jan Edöcs, CEO and President of Milus International; Jane Monheit, US jazz singer from New York; Barbara Becker, designer from Germany; and Doron Basha, CEO of Milus USA (from New York launch event)


The amiable head of Milus USA told The LA Report that current plans for the company, founded in 1919, include reinvigorating the brand for the 21st century, and today's opening launch certainly made a splash among the packed crowd, which included Hollywood celebs, watch lovers, media and other VIPs, who were able to view and try on the dazzling watches on display at the store and at the afterparty. All in all, the 5+ hour multi-venue event made it clear that Milus knows a thing or two about attractive luxury for the upscale trendsetter. For more information on Milus, visit www.milus.com.

MBTs ROCK (SNEAKERS? SHOES? FITNESS/EXERCISE EQUIPMENT? ALL OF THE ABOVE!)

Product Review by Don Rose

You know you have something special when your new sneakers/shoes come with their own instructional/informational DVD, and even a mini-guide booklet tethered to a lace hole! As the booklet says, "Strictly speaking, MBTs are not shoes at all." Whoa. What a statement! They sure look like shoes! But read on: "MBTs are highly effective pieces of fitness and exercise equipment. And this is also their main benefit." In other words, they may appear to be just a pair of sneakers/shoes, and they do achieve that basic function (getting you around while encasing your feet in cushy comfort), but they also achieve other useful functions, namely helping your posture and (according to others' testimonials) alleviating back/leg/foot problems.



When I say MBTs rock, I don't just mean I like them a lot and think they "really rock, dude!" -- I also mean it literally. The curved sole is reminiscent of the curved bottom of a rocking chair; as with a rocking chair, you can balance easily atop your MBTs, or you can rock back and forth a little. Wearing the MBTs on the first day also reminded me of my first day trying another piece of cool technology -- the Segway; it too takes a little getting used to, but in a very short time you find yourself balancing easily, and enjoying it immensely, and it's very easy to use.

My first reaction when I opened the MBT box: cool look, great smell. (Ah, that new shoe aroma!) I chose black, size 11 (a half size bigger than my usual 10.5, but I was advised to go a bit big, and they were right; the fit felt perfect). I was so pleased at the great fit right out of the box, something that rarely happens for me. It may be the best feeling of immediate comfort I have ever experienced in a new shoe or sneaker. It just felt right away like a favorite snug glove you love, even though it's new. I also noticed the thick soles; I felt like I was taller, and standing straighter.

I wore my MBTs all day today, even ran a little with them, and I never really felt any loss of balance, even though I was wearing a new piece of technology and never spent a day wearing curved soles before. I did, however, feel like the shoes were a tad heavy when running; my guess is that it just takes getting used to, since MBTs do after all feature thicker soles than most shoes I have seen. Also, keep in mind that I spent my Day One going on intuition, without reading the manual (something I don't recommend you do, since the manual does have useful instructions and information); I wanted to see how intuitive the MBTs were to use. I am sure reading the manual will make future days with the MBTs even more fun and rewarding, as I will better understand how to "operate" them for maximum benefits.

To summarize my Day One experience: I like them, I really like them! More specifically, I believe MBT's makers (Swiss Masai, www.swissmasai.com) are on to something unique, and potentially groundbreaking, in the fitness footwear industry. MBTs strike me as a unique piece of technology that, at the very least, combines great comfort, support, sleek style, and improvement in posture. Other MBT owners also report experiencing health benefits that include pain relief, stronger muscles, etc. The MBT shoes may cost a bit more than some other shoes, but for all the benefits and quality you get, it sure seems worth it. It's also nice to know that MBT unconditionally guarantees their footwear against defects for six months (although, judging by how solid these shoes feel, I highly doubt that will ever be an issue).

Special kudos to Melanie Segal of Platinum Publicity, who featured MBTs this year at her always-excellent Platinum Pre-Emmy Suites, held at the Luxe Hotel on Rodeo Drive; many celebrities and VIPs attending the rooftop penthouse event stopped by MBT's packed booth to try them on. The LA Report has heard that several celebs wear MBTs regularly, which is not surprising, since they are often the first to hear about and investigate cutting-edge trends in health and fitness. Our advice to you, dear reader: read more about MBTs, visit their website, try a pair on, and I bet you'll soon be saying, "I want my MBT."

NEW PRESLEY CD "ELVIS: VIVA LAS VEGAS" SHOWCASES GREAT LATER-YEARS LIVE TRACKS

ELVIS PRESLEY died 30 years ago today. Honor him (and get some cool concert cuts) by picking up the new CD, "ELVIS: VIVA LAS VEGAS". 16 of his best "later years" tracks; The LA Report especially digs his Polk Salad Annie, You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling and The Wonder of You. And An American Trilogy is pure music magic.