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December 29, 2007

BEST OF 2007: SCI-FI ANIMATION: FUTURAMA - MARATHON DEC.26-31 ON ADULT SWIM, CARTOON NETWORK

Adult Swim has done Futurama marathons before, but this is the Mother of All Futuramarathons: every episode, ever! From Dec. 26 to Dec. 31. Then, we are told, Futurama moves from Cartoon Network to Comedy Central in 2008.

For a taste of this amazing show, which wonderfully blends comedy and science fiction in a future 1000 years from now, here is a (musical) clip: http://www.adultswim.com/video/?episodeID=8a25c39216f1dfe40116f3f09e990010
...and...
Here are some posts with more Futurama info, from the Runescape Community website:

After 5 long years, Adult Swim's contract with Futurama has ended, and for whatever reason they're not renewing it. However, to honor this amazing show, Adult Swim has decided to air every single episode from December 26-31. After this marathon, Futurama will not be aired again, at least not on Adult Swim, and they are the only channel I know that shows it. So, get your TiVos ready, an era is ending.
...
In October 2005,
Comedy Central picked up the exclusive cable syndication rights to air Futurama's 72-episode run at the start of 2008, following the expiration of Cartoon Network's contract. It was cited as the largest and most expensive acquisition in the network's history.

December 27, 2007

BEST OF 2007: FILM CLIP: DEWEY COX & BEATLES IN INDIA


For Beatles fans and mockumentary lovers, the "Dewey Cox" clip linked to below is a must-see.

The mock Lennon (Paul Rudd) and Ringo (Jason Schwartzman) are especially good.
(Rudd once again blends perfectly into his role, becoming utterly unrecognizable; see his mustached macho male in "Anchorman" for another stellar example.)

And for those who are not sure whether the new film "Dewey Cox" is one of the funniest of 2007, this should seal the deal.


http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/de1c7b5d75

December 22, 2007

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. 22: THE SICK PUPPIES PLAY ACOUSTIC FUNDRAISER AT VON DUTCH FOR DAWGS CHARITY

(from website antiMusic.com)

The Sick Puppies are playing a live acoustic fundraiser in Los Angeles this weekend for the Dalhart Animal Rescue. The benefit is sponsored by LA Rock Rest, Von Dutch, V2 and 97.1 FREE FM and will take place Saturday, December 22nd, 2007 3:00 pm at Von Dutch Headquarters - 819 N. La Brea Ave. - West Hollywood, Ca 90038.

According to the press release: The Dalhart Animal Wellness Group & Sanctuary (DAWGS) was started in March 2003 by four young ladies in the fourth grade who were upset about dogs being brutally euthanized in Dalhart, Texas. When DAWGS was created, the city of Dalhart, TX was euthanizing over 600 dogs a year- that's over 4 times the national average for dogs and cats combined. With very limited resources, DAWGS, primarily ran by children ages 9 to 12, began picking up dogs and cats from the city facility, having them checked by the local vets, vaccinated, and spaying or neutering them prior to adoption. Even while facing tremendous adversity, DAWGS has successfully rescued over 4,000 dogs to date through their no-kill sanctuary. For more information, visit: http://dawgsntexas.com

December 14, 2007

DEC. 15-16: ECO GIFT EXPO, SANTA MONICA CIVIC



Make 2007 the year your "gifts go green"! This should be a great show - get all your last minute holiday shopping done under one (large) roof. Highly recommended by The LA Report.

December 13, 2007

"THE TWELVE" THROWS NOVEL LAUNCH PARTY AT CITIZEN SMITH

(December 12, 2007: Los Angeles, CA) Tonight, "The Twelve" took over Citizen Smith, the hot hang in the heart of Hollywood. No, we don't mean the Twelve Supreme Court justices (they may have been over at Government Smith, perhaps), nor the Twelve days of Christmas (which we love, of course, but that is not Gothic enough for this riddle). We mean the book party and signing for screenwriter/filmmaker Tom Kennedy and his new debut horror novel, THE TWELVE. Everyone in attendance was graciously gifted with a copy of "The Twelve" as well as a cookie version of the book. (You know, those special order shortbread confections that feature the cover of a book or other work of art using newfangled food technology, we love those!)

We are told that "The Twelve" involves the killing of Beverly Hills billionaires (which may have Rupert Murdoch sweating), and that the novel features a suspenseful Stephenkingesque style (an accolade bestowed by Kirkus Reviews), so we look forward to reading the book. Tom told The LA Report he uses "the same program coroners use" when writing his new tome -- "Via Voice" -- the advanced natural-language dictation software that can (very accurately) translate voice into text. Coroners use it since their hands are always busy, Tom explained, and this certainly makes sense. Tom uses it in order to keep the writing flowing freer than when one's hands are tied to a typewriter (ahem, I mean, computer keyboard).

Along with many photographers and other members of the media in attendance, the VIPs and celebrities at the party (including Patrika Darbo [Hatchet], Lorielle New and others) enjoyed fine red wine plus delicious passed appetizers served up by the Citizen Smith kitchen, such as lightly-fried chicken skewers, empanadas and homemade cookies. All in all, a very fun affair. (Note: no billionaires were harmed in the making of this story.)

The official website for "The Twelve" is: www.thetwelvenovel.com. Inquiries regarding the book or author Tom Kennedy can be sent to Doris Bergman at The Berg Group: theberggroup@aol.com. Citizen Smith is located at 1600 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, CA, at the corner of Selma and Cahuenga.

December 8, 2007

DEC. 8: VON DUTCH ART AND TOY FAIR

Art and Toy Fair 2007

December 1, 2007

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/

November 27, 2007

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

Player Value $80
If you're ready to take your Napster music with you everywhere, we have a great offer to get you started.  Just sign up for a 1-year Napster To Go subscription and we'll give you an MP3 player free.    With Napster To Go, get all the great features you love, plus transfer unlimited music to your MP3 player    Get one for yourself or give one to a friend today.    Happy listening,    Napster Team

November 23, 2007

NO PUNDIT INTENDED: CLINTON & OBAMA (ANALYSIS)

by Don Rose

HILLARY CLINTON

She has frontrunner swagger, a huge national base, name recognition off the charts, the admiration of millions of women, and Bill. Not to mention the love of the pants suit industry. But she needs to overcome the obstacle Gore faced in 2000: how to come off less robotic. Until robots get the vote around 50 years from now, this is a must in our current human dominated society.

I mean, let's be real; when she told an Iowa debate audience she had been "touched" by their stories, there was not an ounce of true feeling in her voice. It may have been a sincere statement, but it sure didn't sound that way, and sound is what matters most, next to visuals. And since her visuals are just average, she better get sound down.

Oral arousal (no, not that kind, the speaking kind) was a talent her hubbie was a master of; Bill Clinton could make reading the phone book sound downright meaningful and from the heart. Maybe he can teach his wife his gift of aural aura, the secret of being Master Thespian of Feeling Your Pain. It would be the best holiday gift Hill could ever hope for.

BARACK OBAMA

In many respects, he seems like another Bill Clinton: rock star status, celeb pals, firm command of facts, exemplary oratory, mega magnetism. Heck, many people referred to Clinton as "the first black President," and Obama actually is half-black, which ain't half bad. There's only
one problem with a Clinton-like candidate. There already is a Clinton candidate, and
she has the real Bill Clinton in tow to boot.

So, no Obama in the White House in 2008. What he is really doing is what many great
candidates do: get their first big campaign out of the way, build a national
infrastructure, get the kinks out and run again later as a stronger, older, wiser veteran candidate.

Face it, he's too green now, even in this golden age of Green. Obama's time will come, in 2012 or 2016. Maybe by then he can get his pal Ms. Winfrey onboard as running mate, after she retires from TV in search of a new challenge. Just imagine what Letterman could do with an Obama-Oprah ticket.

November 22, 2007

T-DAY T'S: TOP TWELVE TERRIFIC THINGS TO THANK

Here is a list (in no particular order) of the Top Twelve Things (or places or people) in or about or related to Los Angeles we wish to thank this year, just for being here and being great:

1. The Beatles

The LA Report never gets tired of their music or lore. Has there ever been a band before or since with more gems per album? Or humor? We love the liner notes by Martin "Marty" Scorcese in the delightful 2-disc DVD set of "HELP!" just released this month. Want to see what inspired The Monkees TV show and Monty Python? Get "Help!" Want to OD on Beatles every Sunday morning in LA? Try KRTH FM's two 1-hour shows back to back from 8-10am, Chris Carter's always amazing Breakfast With The Beatles on KLOS FM 9-noon, and Les Perry's Meet The Beatles show on KCSN FM 10am-2pm. Want to see the place that still puts out their albums? See the landmark Capitol Records building on Vine just north of Hollywood Boulevard (where Beatle fans gather on Beatle birthdays and other dates of note).

2. Jenny Lens

See our recent post about her show at La Luz gallery. Her punk rock archive rocks. And she's super sweet.

3. Bill Maher

He's the Lenny Bruce of our generation. Like Lenny, he has been crucified for just stating his beliefs (an act which, last I checked, was supposed to be protected by something called the Constitution). Case in point: losing his ABC show Politically Incorrect over his comment re 9/11 (about who are cowards and who aren't). Losing a show called Politically Incorrect for BEING Politically Incorrect is one of the great ironies of all time. Luckily, HBO likes irony, and Bill landed there with his show Real Time. We knew he'd wind up there, because HBO has always championed comedy of all stripes, even if too truthful for advertisers.

4. The WGA

Here's to the Writers Guild, which represents the interests of all those wordsmiths who create the scripts that power the TV shows and movies (and Internet downloads) that make our increasingly-depressing real world more bearable, and can sometimes even improve lives, start movements or both. But it all starts with that blank piece of paper (real or virtual), being stared at by a writer, until the magic spills forth.

5. Little Steven's Underground Garage

Want to hear a near perfect example of a radio show? Check out this gem on KLOS FM 95.5 every Sunday, 10pm (or just after 10) til around midnite (or just after 12). Steven Van Zandt's fun style, encyclopedic knowledge of pop music, eclectic presentation of old and new indie-garage sounds - and his Freak of the Week - makes this an unmissable weekly listening event.

6. The Paley Center for Media

Formerly the Museum of Television and Radio. Thousands of radio and TV shows at your fingertips in their amazing viewing library, and daily special showings in their theatre. Periodic lectures, panels and exhibits as well. We are so lucky to have this place in LA (the other one is way over in New York).

7. Google

I always wanted thank a noun, verb, and search engine in one go. But seriously, can any of us live without them? (Okay, Yahoo, put your hand down.) (Ironic how Yahoo put their name in an ad slogan as a verb, but "Do you Yahoo?" No, you Google.) And Google has now partnered with the X-Prize folks to offer $20 million to the first person to put a robot on the moon and post its video on YouTube. Is Google cool or what?

8. Wired Magazine

We have always loved their magazine - it is simply required reading for us every month - but they do great live events, too. They just finished a very cool series of tours of a "Wired Living Home" in the Brentwood hills (now listed for $4+ million in case you want to have your own private tour every day). Even the drive up there was futuristic, as we got to enjoy the new BMW Hydrogen powered car (which runs on either gasoline or hydrogen - the latter being the most abundant element in the universe with emissions that are basically just water). The LA Report attended on Nov. 18 and fell in love with the Ray Kappe designed home, which in some ways felt reminiscent of the Eames legacy in form while being very modern and green in function (we especially loved the 3-D desktop printer in the kids room). More info: www.wired.com/wiredlivinghome.

9. The Playboy Mansion

Do we really have to justify this one? (Not to guys, anyway.) Seriously, we are so glad this place is still alive and kicking (ass). Not just because it is a testament to the rewards that can come to you for creating a radically new kind of publication (newsworthy articles plus nudesworthy arty girls!), but because they still do amazing events there, and because they have a wonderful animal sanctuary which you must see. (Tip: buy a ticket to a daytime charity event held at the Mansion -- there are several each year -- and odds are good you can see the cool creatures, as we did). Note: our Thanks list Number 3 is often seen at the Mansion (Bill being a kind of honorary heir to Hef).

10. Shout Factory

The LA-based company produces some of the greatest DVDs and DVD boxsets we have ever seen or played. Also stellar CDs. There are too many to list! Just go to www.shoutfactory.com and see what we mean.

11. Rhino

This LA-based company ALSO produces some of the greatest DVDs and DVD boxsets we have ever seen or played. And stellar CDs. Too many to list! Just go to www.rhino.com and see what we mean. (One example we will always cherish is their 70's music boxset; the original packages they sold are covered in real shag, baby! For a more recent stellar set, run don't walk to get Rhino's new cool collection, THE McCARTNEY YEARS, 3 DVDs of Macca/Wings heaven!)

12. LACMA

Last but not least is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Their exhibits are world-class (the current Dali exhibit is one example, while King Tut and Van Gogh exhibits amazed throngs of grateful museum goers in recent years). They show great films in their Bing Theatre. They are centrally located, and have easy parking nearby. And to top it off, they do amazing events, our fave being the annual Costume Ball every year during Halloween week (or should I say Halloweek?). I think their slogan should be, "I like my LACMA." (Now let's see if they use it!)

November 20, 2007

BEATLES PODCAST! "HELP!" IS ON THE WAY

To hear the first ever Beatles podcast, narrated by Monty Python's Michael Palin, do the following steps (all free):

1. Go to your favorite podcast reader program -- for example, Google Reader, at:
http://reader.google.com
2. Add a new subscription/feed, using this link:
http://www.thebeatles.com/help/assets/downloads/rss.xml
3. As new episodes of the podcast are delivered to you, play them!

So far, there are 2 episodes available. Taken together, they form a nice audio documentary about "Help!" -- shedding light on the making of the Richard Lester film, the Beatles' second movie, with many of the film's participants recalling how the motion picture was merrily made. Highly recommended by The LA Report (we can't wait for episode 3, coming soon).

About "Help!"

Directed by Richard Lester, who also directed the band’s debut feature film "A Hard Day's Night," "Help!" made its theatrical debut in 1965. Two new "Help!" DVD sets were released on November 6, 2007: a 2-disc set (featuring the restored film, a disc full of bonus material, and a booklet), and a deluxe edition (with 2 discs, a book, a replica of Dick Lester's working script, and reproductions of the film's poster and theatre lobby cards). In addition, the FIRST EVER Beatles podcast is now available for free online -- a multi-part "Help!" documentary.

The film follows The Beatles as they become passive recipients of an outside plot that revolves around Ringo's possession of a sacrificial ring, which he cannot remove from his finger. As a result, he and his bandmates John, Paul and George are chased from London to the Austrian Alps and the Bahamas by religious cult members, a mad scientist and the London police. In addition to starring the Beatles, "Help!" has a witty script, a great cast of British character actors and features 7 classic Beatles tracks, including:

‘Help!’
• ‘You're Going To Lose That Girl’
• ‘You've Got To Hide Your Love Away’
• ‘Ticket To Ride’
• ‘I Need You’
• ‘The Night Before’
• ‘Another Girl’

November 19, 2007

TECH CHECK: ScanSnap S300 Color Mobile Scanner


Technology Review by Bruce Braunstein, Writer, TheLAReport.com

ScanSnap S300 Color Mobile Scanner
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.

November 18, 2007

NOV. 18: PUNK 365 AND JENNY LENS PHOTOS AT LA LUZ DE JESUS GALLERY

From Jenny Lens's website, http://www.jennylens.com/ :

The Jenny Lens Punk Archive is so pleased to be in the special punk rock photo exhibit, La Luz de Jesus Gallery, 4633 Hollywood Blvd, just east of Vermont, Nov 18, 2007, 4 to 8 pm opening, to celebrate release of “Punk 365,” by Holly George-Warren, Abrams. I had to stand up to my own publisher, Rizzoli, to be in the book. They are looking out for my highly anticipated first solo photo book, “Punk Pioneers, but it was bad timing, or else I would have have more photos in “Punk 365.” At least I have 24 hard-won shots in it!! Not my Jenny Lens classics, but some unpublished shots not in my book“Punk Pioneers. You’ll just have to get both, along with “Live at the Masque,” and then you still will only see a small fraction of my Jenny Lens Punk Archive. But better prints than in any previous publications!

Screamers, Gower Gulch, spring 1977, Jenny Lens
Photo: Screamers at Gower Gulch (Sunset and Gower), THE site for early western films, spring 1977.
A classic LA punk rock photo by Jenny Lens.

X, Exene Cervenka and John Doe, Stardust Ballroom, August 30, 1979, Jenny Lens
X, Exene Cervenka and John Doe, New Wave 1980 show, Stardust Ballroom, August 30, 1979 by Jenny Lens.

Debbie Harry, Blondie LA debut, Whisky, February 1977. Tom Petty, Ramones, Jenny Lens
Debbie Harry, Blondie’s LA debut at the Whisky, February 1977. First Blondie opened for Tom Petty (his Whisky debut too), then Blondie and Ramones a few days later. Whatta week! By Jenny Lens.

SATURDAY NIGHT DEAD? SNL STAFF SUFFERS SATURDAY NIGHT MASSACRE

by Don Rose

Here is a second-hand report that may be sad news for SNL lovers: FoxNews.com reports that The New York Post reported that the Saturday Night Live staff has been fired, without severance! This is amazing news, if true. NBC reps have not commented as of this writing.

In related news, the SNL cast performed a live show in New York over the weekend, and their long-time producer Lorne Michaels even attended. The hot ticket event, which featured double the normal number of sketches but had the same general show structure as a regular SNL show, was held at the Upright Citizens Brigade, which was founded by SNL femme fave Amy Poehler (and which has a great Los Angeles location on Franklin in Hollywood).

We should note that Saturday Night Live has survived crises before, and The LA Report predicts it will be back, eventually, better than ever. It always has. Since writers and producers are set to return to talks in a few days, let's cross our fingers that the WGA strike will soon end, and NBC's whole lineup of groundbreaking late night shows will soon be off repeats and on the air again. As far as we at The LA Report are concerned, NBC stands for No Better Comedy.

November 16, 2007

NOV. 16: CUTIES FOR CANINES BENEFIT AT 5TH AND SUNSET STUDIOS, WEST LA

For more information, please go to www.cutiesforcanines.org/events.asp - a fun time for a great cause, highly recommended by The LA Report.

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.

Mirror Label

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.

November 15, 2007

WRITERS GUILD STRIKE: NEWS HIGHLIGHTS, NOV. 15

The latest letter to Guild members from WGA West President Verrone summarizes the writers' side of things -- a counterpoint to recent ads from the producers (AMPTP):


To My Fellow Members:

As expected, the AMPTP today took out another set of full page ads making misleading statements. While we can’t meet them ad dollar for ad dollar, I would like to refute their charges here.

* They say that technology and the Internet is rapidly changing how Hollywood works. This is true, which is why we need a new formula to determine compensation.

* They say that writers are already paid residuals for digital downloads. It's true some companies are trying to pay us for downloading shows we’ve created at the abysmal DVD rate of a third of a penny per dollar earned by the companies. But we have never agreed to this formula, and we have initiated arbitration.

* They say we are asking for a 700% increase over what we currently receive for digital downloads. This is more than misleading. Again, some companies are trying to pay us the DVD rate. And we are asking to receive 2.5 cents per dollar. The only way to characterize our request as a 700% increase is if you accept as a given the low ball amount they’re trying to foist on us.

* They say they have offered to pay us a percentage of the revenue from Internet streaming of shows we’ve created. Here’s the truth about their offer. We would get no share of revenue for the first six weeks that our shows air. In other words, they’re offering us a share of revenue after there is little revenue left.

* They say that no labor agreement in history has given writers, actors, or directors a portion of advertising dollars. Nowhere in any of our proposals have we ever asked for a share of ad dollars. As with every residual, we are asking for a share of the revenue the corporations receive.

While I am always eager to discuss these issues with the public and the members, I also aim to have these discussions directly with the AMPTP. Therefore, instead of spending money on advertising, I ask them to return to the negotiating table, which we never left.

We are all in this together.

Best,

Patric M. Verrone
President, WGA West

NOV. 15: ARTISTS FOR A NEW SOUTH AFRICA WILL BE “SHAKING THE BLUES” AT A GALA BENEFIT AT THE WILTERN THEATER

The November 15 event will feature performances by ERYKAH BADU, NIKKA COSTA, GEORGE LOPEZ, KEB’ MO’, TAJ MAHAL TRIO, THE ROOTS and more

Performers: Erykah Badu, The Roots, Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal Trio, Nikka Costa, Cory Chisel, Ahmir “?uestlove” Thompson.
MC’S: George Lopez, Alfre Woodard, Blair Underwood, Jurnee Smollett, Victoria Rowell, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Nicole Hill.
Attendees: JJ Abrams, Earl Billings, Norman Lear, Tony Krantz. Roma Maffia, Gloria Reuben, Dule Hill, James Pickens, Jr., Anthony Anderson.

WHAT: “Shaking The Blues,” a star-studded benefit and show hosted by Artists For A New South Africa (ANSA).
WHERE: The Wiltern Theater, 3790 Wilshire Blvd. (at Western), Los Angeles, CA.
WHEN: Thursday, November 15, 2007. VIP Reception: 6:30 PM; Show: 7:45 PM.

WHY: ANSA is a Los Angeles-based non-profit organization originally founded in 1989 by noted members of the entertainment community with an initial goal of supporting the struggle against apartheid. For many years now it has been at the vanguard of the fight against the African AIDS pandemic, and committed to the cause of advancing democracy and equality in South Africa – as well as working to further civil rights and voting rights in the U.S. ANSA operates in partnership with effective grassroots organizations on the front lines of these issues and makes a substantial difference by: providing grants; raising public awareness; galvanizing support; building coalitions; focusing on the root causes of social problems; and developing new programs that address urgent needs. In the past 10 years alone, ANSA has raised over $9 million for African non-profits, shipped over 70 tons of medical supplies and books to impoverished communities, and educated millions of people in the U.S. and Africa about HIV/AIDS and voting rights.

Tickets for the gala "Shaking the Blues" benefit event are available at www.ticketmaster.com.

November 12, 2007

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.

November 8, 2007

NOV. 8-11: 4TH ANNUAL ARTIVIST FILM FESTIVAL & AWARDS

"Merging Art & Activism For Global Consciousness" NOVEMBER 8-11, 2007

This year's Artivist is partnering with KPFK Radio and CURRENT TV, reaching more than 25 million people. Join us in celebrating the 4th ANNUAL ARTIVIST. "ARTIVIST" is the 1st international Film Festival & Awards dedicated to addressing Human Rights, Children's Advocacy, Environmental Preservation, and Animal Advocacy. Our purpose is to strengthen the voice of international activist artists - "Artivists" - while raising public awareness for social global causes.

60 FILMS * 25 COUNTRIES * 1 MISSION: GLOBAL CONSCIOUSNESS

Join filmmakers, artists, and the progressive community from around the world as we unite at the annual Artivist Film Festival to address the importance of art and activism in our global community. This year's extensive and diverse Film Program includes narrations from: the Dalai Lama, Harrison Ford, Ted Danson, Paul Newman, Kevin Costner, Kevin Spacey, Jimmy Smits, Mary Steenburgen, Val Kilmer, Ingrid Newkirk, Peter Segar, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Gene Baur, Ray Bradbury, Tommy Chong, Ralph Nader, Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Eve Ensler, Daryl Hannah, and Stuart Townsend, narrating various issues and taking us on diverse journeys that lead to the healing qualities of compassion, teamwork, preservation, and reminding all of us of the interdependence between Humanity, Animals, and the Environment.

OPENING NIGHT FILM "America the Beautiful" Nov. 8, 2007
RED CARPET: 7PM FILM SCREENING: 8PM
Los Angeles Premiere

BE THIN. BE YOUNG. BE PERFECT. BE BEAUTIFUL.
With wit, humor, and inspiration, "America the Beautiful" challenges mainstream "beauty". Images of "perfect beauty" bombard us on television, billboards and through the glossy pages of magazines. Desperately trying to achieve ideals created by companies who want ever increasing profits, we are buying cosmetics, diet pills, fashion, and plastic surgeries at an ever increasing rate. Every day, American women and girls are being directly and indirectly marketed with the notion that they are ugly, fat, old, or must be "improved", to the profitable tune of more than $150 BILLION dollars a year. So... who is actually profiting from this high-priced journey? And at what cost to your health, self-esteem and happiness? "America the Beautiful" takes us on an eye opening journey through the fashion world, the cosmetic industry, and the diet pill, pharmaceutical and plastic surgery industries. The film also addresses how these industries directly influence eating disorders, self-esteem issues, and depression among millions of American women and girls. "America the Beautiful" is the perfect Film to share with all of the women and girls you love and ultimately reminds all of us what real "beauty" is all about!

Join the Artivist Film Festival for the Los Angeles Premiere of their Opening Night Film, "America the Beautiful" on Thursday, November 8, 2007 at the Egyptian Theatre in the heart of Hollywood. The Film is followed by an evening reception featuring an "Alternative, Eco-Friendly Fashion Show" celebrating beautiful women of all shapes, sizes, colors, and ages!

WRITERS GUILD STRIKE: NEWS HIGHLIGHTS, DAY 3

Recent news regarding the Writers Guild of America strike (highlights of an email update sent to guild members by WGA West President Patric M. Verrone):

--Monday's 3,000 person turnout increased on Tuesday to nearly 3,200. Wednesday: over 3,300.

--Tom Johnson, head writer of Talkshow with Spike Feresten, was hit by an overly aggressive driver at Sunset Gower Studios on Monday and sustained minor injuries that required a trip to the emergency room.

--Over 125 showrunners picketed Wednesday at Disney and an ad featuring some 400 screenwriters (including some of the biggest names in the business) will appear in Thursday’s Variety and The Hollywood Reporter. Members have come from as far away as Amsterdam to picket.

--John Edwards sent a statement of support and Rev. Jesse Jackson will be walking the picket lines at Paramount on Thursday. Encouragement, support, and even refreshments continue to be provided on the picket lines from SAG members while ACTRA (the Canadian actors union) has issued a letter of support.

--Talent agencies have also been sending food to the lines and Paradigm picked up the check for lunch for over a hundred showrunners at the Smokehouse in Burbank.

--The WGA is not currently at the bargaining table ... it was nearly four months between the time we put our proposals on the table in July and the first time we had a single counter proposal from the AMPTP on new media issues. ... The last move made on Sunday was our presentation of a comprehensive package. It is up to the companies to respond to that package. When they indicate that they are ready to do so, we will return to the bargaining table as soon as possible.

November 7, 2007

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

November 5, 2007

NOV. 8: FRESH & EASY MARKET OPENINGS IN LA

Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market Announces Date for First Store Openings

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Oct. 9 (PRNewswire) — Tesco, one of the top three retailers in the world, announced the grand opening date for its U.S. venture, Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market. Six grocery stores in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties are scheduled to open on Thursday, November 8, 2007.

The store openings mark a major milestone for the company, which has spent years researching and planning the Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market format. This innovative format is the result of extensive customer research in local U.S. markets where Fresh & Easy researchers spent time in the homes of consumers looking at shopping and cooking patterns.


"After great anticipation, we are thrilled to open our doors to neighborhoods in Southern California and offer them fresh, wholesome food at affordable prices," said Tim Mason, Fresh & Easy's CEO. "We are also excited to demonstrate our strong commitment to being a good neighbor and a great place to work."

At roughly 10,000 square feet, these neighborhood markets will be smaller than the typical supermarket to give customers a faster, easier shopping experience. In addition to offering a range of Fresh & Easy private label and national brand name products at low prices, Fresh & Easy will also offer customers a selection of fresh, prepared meals.

Fresh & Easy has gone to great lengths to ensure all its private label products contain no added trans fats, artificial colors or flavors, and have limited amounts of preservatives. Deliveries will be made daily to each store to ensure all products are as fresh as possible.

Each Fresh & Easy store will employ approximately 20 to 30 people. The company interviews on-site at each store location, aiming to hire from the local neighborhood. Fresh & Easy intends all store employees will work 20 hours a week or more, and be eligible for comprehensive health care and other benefits. Entry-level positions will pay well over the minimum wage, starting at $10 an hour in California, and offer a potential bonus of up to 10% on top.

As part of the company's promise to be a good neighbor and steward of the environment, Fresh & Easy has committed to build LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified buildings, recycle or reuse all shipping and display materials and use environmentally friendly trailers to transport food. The company also invested in California's largest solar roof installation on its distribution center in Riverside.

In addition to these six locations, Fresh & Easy will also open stores in San Diego, Phoenix and Las Vegas by the end of the year.

About Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market

Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market is a local, neighborhood store committed to providing customers with fresh, wholesome food at affordable prices. Fresh & Easy is a company of Tesco, the UK's largest retailer and one of the world's leading international retailers. Tesco operates over 3,200 stores across 12 countries and employing more than 400,000 people. Tesco's success is due in part to delivering a consistently strong customer offering on every visit and every transaction, and by focusing on the company's core purpose: to create value for customers to earn their lifetime loyalty.

More information regarding Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market can be found at http://www.freshandeasy.com. (SOURCE Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market.)

FEB. 10: 2008 WILL BRING SPIELBERG ONE AWARD FOR SURE: VISUAL EFFECTS SOCIETY'S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AT ANNUAL VES CEREMONY

From "Cynopsis: DIGITAL" 11/05/07:

Steven Spielberg has been chosen to receive the Visual Effects Society's Lifetime Achievement Award at the group's 6th annual awards ceremony at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood on Feb. 10, 2008. Previous recipients include George Lucas, Robert Zemeckis and Dennis Muren.

OPRAH CHANNEL COMES TO YOUTUBE; WINFREY TO BE GUEST EDITOR AND VIDEO PICKER

From "Cynopsis: DIGITAL" 11/05/07:

...Here are two great brands that should go great together. Harpo Productions launched an Oprah channel on YouTube featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes and backstage footage. YouTube founders Chad Hurley and Steve Chen will make appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show tomorrow to help promote the launch, along with a selection of YouTube amateur "stars." Oprah will also serve as guest editor for the site over the next couple of days; look for some of her favorite video picks on the YouTube homepage...

November 3, 2007

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.

November 2, 2007

NOV. 2: DEAL: WALMART $348 ACER LAPTOP WITH 1 GB RAM

Google shows sites to read more about the sub-$350 notebook computer deal:

Wal-Mart to Sell Acer Laptop for 8 This Friday notebooks.com
Wal-Mart is getting a jump start on the holidays, teasing customers with a $348 laptop that will be available this Friday. Those of you who've been waiting ...www.notebooks.com/2007/10/31/wal-mart-to-sell-acer-laptop-for-348-this-friday/ - 30k - Cached - Similar pages

Acer 1GB Laptop Walmart $348 Friday - dslreports.com
Toshiba Satellite widescreen notebook from Office Depot » · « Somerset Entertainment $29.99 In ... This Friday Walmart has an Acer 1GB Laptop for $348. ...www.broadbandreports.com/forum/r19357012-Acer-1GB-Laptop-Walmart-348-Friday - Similar pages

UPDATE: Now starting Friday at 8 a.m. $348 OTD Acer Celeron 530 ...
UPDATE: Now starting Friday at 8 am $348 OTD Acer Celeron 530 Laptop 15.4"/1GB RAM/80GB HD/DVD Burner at Wal-Mart B&M Hot Deals.forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&p=8519125 - 84k - Cached - Similar pages

But beware: low prices can bring out the beast in buyers:

Digg - Video of Crowds Fighting During Black Friday
Fight Breaks out at an Orlando Walmart As Man Races to Get $378 Notebook. .... Frys had a laptop for 348 and I grabbed one but when I opened it there was no ...digg.com/security/Video_of_Crowds_Fighting_During_Black_Friday - 70k - Cached - Similar pages

October 31, 2007

HALLOWEEN COSTUMES 75 PERCENT OFF AT BUFFALO EXCHANGE

The Buffalo Exchange store on La Brea, just south of Beverly Blvd. -- which features vintage/used clothing and accessories -- has Halloween costumes for you trick or treaters at 75 percent off, according to a sign on their front door.

NOV. 1: H&M STORE OPENS ON SUNSET BOULEVARD

From Splendora:

H&M OPENS ON SUNSET BOULEVARD: Roll out the red carpet and get ready to add some star quality to your closet. H&M opens their newest store this Thursday, November 1st at high noon! There's always a flurry of excitement around H&M openings so come early and line up. The first 100 in line receive a mystery gift card (values range from $10-$200) and a complimentary H&M tee.

What: H&M opens on Sunset Boulevard.
When: Thursday, November 1st at Noon.
Where: 8580 W. Sunset Boulevard.
H&M Store Locator

"REDACTED" FILM TO PREMIERE ON HDNET ULTRA VOD, BEFORE THEATRES

Critically acclaimed Brian De Palma film will be the first movie available to cable and satellite subscribers prior to its theatrical release as part of the new HDNet Ultra VOD platform

DALLAS (October 29, 2007) - When the Brian De Palma film REDACTED premiered to audiences at the Venice International Film Festival, critics raved, calling it "outstanding," "sensational" and "unflinching." Ray Bennett of The Hollywood Reporter called REDACTED a "shocking and deeply moving" film. Now the film will be the first offering on the HDNet Ultra Video On Demand platform, which will allow viewers access to movies PRIOR to the movie's theatrical premiere.

HDNet Ultra VOD allows consumers to watch specially selected theatrical releases from their cable or satellite provider's (as well as selected hotels') selection of On Demand Movies starting as early as three weeks prior to their premiere in theaters. Watching an HDNet Ultra VOD release is as easy as calling your cable or satellite provider and asking them to add it to your programming guide. You do not need to be an HDNet subscriber to participate.

In addition to the On Demand access, HDNet Ultra VOD offers a special free Sneak Preview showing on HDNet Movies two days prior to the movies premiere in theaters.

"HDNet once again is breaking new ground with theatrical release windows," said Mark Cuban. "With HDNet Ultra VOD, we have once again expanded consumer choice and allowed them to see movies how, where and when they want to see them. Hopefully this will change the landscape of independent film allowing movies to gain awareness and momentum going into their theatrical release."

Site Link: http://www.redactedmovie.com

October 27, 2007

1965 BEATLE FLASHBACK: GEORGE GETS GUITAR!

024-GH3-Large.jpg
Beatle fans, get thee to the cool website of Bill Carlson. Bill was there way back when to cover the Beatles' tour as it steamrolled across America and into the upper Midwest, where Bill captured images that are just now getting exposure, pardon the pun. The LA Report just caught Bill on one of the fine Los Angeles Beatle shows (KRTH 101.1 FM, which broadcasts two shows back to back on Sundays, 8am to 10am). Mr. Carlson told his tale of the Fab Four in Minnesota, where among other things, lead guitarist George Harrison received a brand new Rickenbacker guitar (see photo above).

Bill also referred fellow Beatlemaniacs to his website, where he sells his fine photos. In the case of the George guitar gift, Bill gives some context to the above photo with this quote:

“...Yeah, I got number two. This friend in England who takes care of guitars, Alan Rogan, found out that that Rickenbacker 12-string of mine is the second one made. The first they gave to a woman, and the second one I got. I got another one with the rounded cutaways, but I’m glad to say that the one that went missing - I got a lot of stuff stolen or lost - wasn’t the original one.” --George Harrison in “Guitar Player” interview

October 26, 2007

OCT. 27: BURTON MORRIS POP ART OPENING AT HAMILTON-SELWAY GALLERY

OCT. 26: THE GOOD LIFE PARTY AT ELEVATE, DOWNTOWN LA (944)

http://app.bronto.com/public/?q=

BEST BET: FOOD FETISH; FETES FEATURE FABULOUS FEASTS

The LA Report is fortunate enough to go to many LA area events, and thus we tend to notice when one service or another is popular around town. Such is the case with FOOD FETISH. This catering company always serves excellent food; not only do we love it, but we always hear others in attendance praising their cuisine.

Case in point: last night's open house at the new RFX facility (748 Seward St., just north of Melrose). Food Fetish's fabulous feast included scrumptuous crabcakes, BBQ tri-tip, dreamy creamy scalloped potatoes, chicken, salad, and a range of tangy sauces (a hallmark of Food Fetish fetes). Desserts included three flavors of ice cream in copious quantities, several toppings, plus brownies. The Food Fetish staff is always extremely pleasant as well, and if you ever get the pleasure of talking with Joel, the amiable owner of Food Fetish, he may just engage you in a spirited conversation about his other love, baseball.

Food Fetish: a Best Bet of The LA Report. One of the top caterers in Los Angeles. If you are a party planner, contact them well in advance as we have firsthand knowledge of how busy their party schedule is! More info at: www.foodfetishcatering.com. Joel Boardman, Owner: 818-762-7850 • send email ; Harvey Slater, VP Sales & Marketing: 213-381-1766 • send email.

CENTURY HOUSING TO BUILD AFFORDABLE 4-BDRM TOWNHOMES FOR LOW INCOME FAMILIES

13 Townhomes Affordable to Working Families to be Built in Pico-Union

Century Housing (http://www.centuryhousing.org/) has closed a $2.6 million construction loan for the creation of four-bedroom homes for families earning less than $35,000 per year. Read more…

SOCAL FIRES: UCLA HILLEL MESSAGE, DONATION/VOLUNTEER INFO

A message from Rabbi Chaim Seidler-Feller and the staff at Hillel at UCLA:

This week has been a tragic one in Southern California. Our hearts go out to all those who have lost their homes, their memories, and their possessions and to all those who have experienced the trauma and threat of displacement. Please accept Hillel's extended hand of love and care. If there is anything we can do for you please do not hesitate to contact us.

We are now involved in a campaign to raise funds for the victims of the fire and to give students the opportunity to take part in local Red Cross efforts:

Monetary donations are needed and welcome. To donate to the Fire Emergency Relief Fund: call (323) 761-8200 or send a check to The Jewish Federation, 6505 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles CA 90048, made payable to The Jewish Federation with the words “Fire Relief Fund” in the memo line. You can also make an emergency donation online by clicking here.

The Red Cross will need volunteers all day on Sunday helping clean rescue equipment that has been used in San Diego and Malibu. The address of the Red Cross is: 11355 Ohio Ave, Los Angeles, CA. (213) 739-5200. You can just stop by and pitch in.

Tomorrow night at Shabbat we are opening up our doors to students from San Diego who have evacuated to Los Angeles. Please join us as we welcome them.

October 25, 2007

OCT. 26: HALLOWEEN PARTY AT THE SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER

On the Friday before Halloween, the SKIRBALL CULTURAL CENTER will be transformed into a huge party space to accommodate hundreds of revelers in a five hour blowout bash

Friday, October 26, 2007 is the big date! Plan to party from 8:00 pm - 1:00 am. Hundreds of partygoers (and great costumes) are expected. Get your party information and tickets today at:
www.dateinla.com

This event is designed to include everyone -- Singles, Couples, Friends and Groups -- featuring DJ, Dancing all Night, Snacks, Costume Contests, Raffles, Great Prizes, Free Parking, Great Halloween Decor, Costume Discounts, Party Favors, Pool Tables, Air-Hockey, Foosball, Video Games, Lounge Furniture and more. As for music, expect Pop, Top 40, Funk, Hip-Hop, Motown, R&B, Disco. The LA Report plans to be there, and you should be too!

October 24, 2007

OCT. 27: LACMA COSTUME BALL AND AFTERPARTY

"Spooky Meets Surreal" Costume Ball takes place October 27, 2007 at LACMA's Los Angeles Times Central Court, followed by an afterparty at the LACMA West Penthouse

Kick off the Halloween season with Muse and a spellbinding after-hours viewing of "Dalí: Painting & Film" and "The Arts in Latin America, 1492–1820." Witness the museum's metamorphosis into a surreal environment while enjoying live music, tasty treats, and special Halloween-inspired cocktails. Start your night with live music on the Los Angeles Times Central Court from 8–10 pm. Then continue the party until the stroke of midnight in the LACMA West Penthouse with DJ sets by the Dublab Sound System and dancing for the first ever Costume Ball After-Party! Fabulous prizes — including a trip for two courtesy of JetBlue, all-access passes to the American Film Institute festival, gift certificates to Theory, Ciudad and Border Grill, along with other great items — will be awarded for the Most Creative Costume, Best Art-Inspired Costume, and Best Halloween Costume.

Tickets are on sale now. Purchase them by clicking here, visiting the box office, or calling 323 857-6010. Ticket price includes admission to the "Dalí: Painting & Film" exhibit, plus complimentary cocktails and appetizers. Purchase tickets early, as this event normally sells out. A $2 service and handling fee applies to tickets ordered online or over the phone. Free parking for this event is available at LACMA’s lot on the corner of Wilshire Blvd. and Spaulding Ave. Tickets are required. Price: Muse member, $30/individual, $50/pair; Non-Muse $40/individual, $70/pair.

October 23, 2007

JOBS: PLAYBOY RADIO: ASSOCIATE PRODUCER AND PAID INTERN (INFOLIST); NOV. 1 DEADLINE

The following is from Jeff Gund and his excellent website, INFOLIST:

My friends at Playboy Radio have asked me to get the word out they're hiring for two positions – an Associate Producer, as well as an Intern position (some pay) - this is an INFOLIST.com exclusive! As always, feel free to forward this if you know someone that would be interested...
-Jeffrey R. Gund
INFOLIST.com
Jeffrey R. Gund Music and Sound Design
www.myspace.com/JeffGund

PLAYBOY RADIO HIRING TWO POSITIONS: ASSOCIATE PRODUCER AND PAID INTERN

ASSOCIATE PRODUCER

Playboy Radio (Sirius) is looking for a new Associate Producer for our nationally broadcast morning radio show. This is the right position for someone who has a passion for, and a history in, RADIO. We’re looking for a person with incredible organizational skills and a track record of booking celebrities and a head for creative ideas. Reliability is paramount because this is a job of long days that start with early mornings. We’re looking for someone to get involved with every single aspect of production. However, if you’re calling is to be “talent” DO NOT APPLY. You’d be wasting your time and ours. If you have no radio/production experience, DO NOT APPLY. But if your dream is to work behind the scenes of a smart, edgy, creative show that reaches almost four million people every day and you’ve paid your dues, then this might be a fit.

TO APPLY for Associate Producer position: Be sure to mention you heard about this from Jeff Gund at INFOLIST.com for priority consideration, and qualified candidates should email a COVER LETTER and RESUME no later than November 1st, 2007 to: radio@playboy.com

INTERN

Playboy Radio (Sirius) is looking for an INTERN to work here at the station. While experience is a plus, the most important attributes should be enthusiasm for hard work in general, and radio in particular. This is an incredible chance for a motivated individual to learn every aspect of radio from the ground up, and to learn it from top notch professionals at a nationally broadcast station. There is some limited pay for this position, and we do not care whether you are currently enrolled in school or not. We care that you have a hunger to learn and an ambition to be great.

TO APPLY for Intern position: Be sure to mention you heard about this from Jeff Gund at INFOLIST.com for priority consideration, and email a COVER LETTER and RESUME no later than November 1st, 2007 to: radio@playboy.com

OCT. 23: FASHION FOR THE CURE BENEFIT AT 2 RODEO

Fashion for the Cure takes place October 23, 2007 on the world-famous European-style cobblestone street of Two Rodeo in Beverly Hills, which will turn pink to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure

The 7th Annual “Fashion for the Cure,” a fashion and entertainment gala, takes place on Tuesday, October 23 at 7:30 pm. The gala’s special fashion segment, “Think Pink and Green,” will feature eco-friendly “green” designer's fashions. The runway will wind thru a wash of pink-lit buildings. Breast Cancer survivors, the real stars of the night, will model designs by Sash, Eco-Centric, Stacia and Not Your Daughter's Jeans. All proceeds from the evening will benefit Komen for the Cure Los Angeles County Affiliate.

Special guest Mariel Hemingway, author of the newly published book, "Healthy Living from the Inside Out: Every Woman's Guide to Beauty, Renewed Energy and Radiant Life," is one of the leading voices of women's health. Hemingway's daughter will fashionably participate as a "green" model on the runway. Lizanne Falsetto, international fashion model and CEO of Think Products will be guest emcee. The evening will be highlighted by a fashion show featuring Uber's models and the new couture collection of Los Angeles’ celebrity eco designer Deborah Lindquist. A surprise celebrity model will wear the all “ThinkThinPink Wrapper” dress designed by Lindquist, made from natural nutrition bar wrappers.

Venue

The 7th Annual "Fashion for the Cure," a fashion and entertainment gala will be held on Two Rodeo in Beverly Hills from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Click here to view a map.

Designer

The evening will be highlighted by a fashion show featuring L.A. Models and the new couture collection of Los Angeles-based designer Deborah Lindquist. Eco-friendly designer Deborah Lindquist first launched her couture-inspired collection in 2004 and has since shown at L.A. Fashion week, the Pret a Porter in Paris and for numerous eco-conscious benefit events. Deborah’s women’s collection combines environmental responsibility with a cutting-edge aesthetic. She works her fashion magic with a mixture of environmentally-friendly fabrications, including recycled cashmere, repurposed kimonos and saris, vintage silk scarves, and sustainable materials such as hemp, soy, and bamboo. The resulting designs are as striking as they are ecologically sensitive. As a trailblazer at the forefront of the stylish green clothing movement, Deborah is making an impact in the fashion world while remaining true to her love for the environment. Celebrity fans include Sharon Stone, Hayden Panetierre, Jessica Alba, Christina Aguilera, Carmen Electra and many more.

Celebrities

Mariel Hemingway Academy Award Nominated actress and author. Olivia Hussey best known for Franco Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet (1968) and her husband David Glen Eisley (Seventh Heaven, actor, singer). Lizanne Falsetto, international fashion model and CEO of Think Products will be guest emcee. The evening will include live entertainment featuring music provided by the Jones Band. The DJ for the event will be C-Note. He performs an ecclectic mix of R&B, latin jazz, world music and rare grooves. C-Note's time and effort at this event is dedicated to his late grandmother who survived breast cancer and lived a full joyful life.

Pink Honorees

This year, for the first time we will be honoring those researchers who have received grants from our Komen National organization, at our Fashon for the Cure. Click here to view the six researchers who are our honorees along with a brief description of the research that was funded. It is with great pleasure that we present them with this Pink Honoree Award.

Menu

In celebration of National Seafood Month, Chef David Iino will prepare many organic items that are fresh and sustainable. Please click here to see the menu for the evening provided by McCormick & Schmick’s ~ A Pacific Seafood Grill.

Purchase Tickets

Tickets are $100 per person. VIP tickets are $150 per person and feature a VIP room and gift bag. McCormick & Schmick’s ~ A Pacific Seafood Grill is located at 206 N. Rodeo Drive, atop the Spanish Steps along Two Rodeo, Beverly Hills 90210, 310-859-0434. Valet parking will be available at Dayton Way entrance. Please call 626-577-2700 for information on how to purchase tickets or click here to buy online.

Sponsors

The event's generous sponsors:
McCormick & Schmick’s ~ A Pacific Seafood Grill
Two Rodeo
Clear Channel Communications
Think Products
Agua Dulce Winery
Deborah Lindquist


Featured Art Auction

Losing his grandmother to breast cancer several years ago, artist Phil Barnes of Northridge chose to be involved in Fashion for the Cure as a personal statement to the love of his family member. "I express deeply through my art where designing a piece for the branding and fundraising of the event is truly quite an honor and act of my compassion," comments Phil. His acrylic painting dedicated to the event, "One Love" which will be auctioned off at the event, represents the victorious, healing, yet feminine essence of those affected by breast cancer.
"One Love"6'6" x 6'2"Acrylic on canvasPhil Barnes ©2007
Click here to view a larger image

Auction Items

Plan to spend time looking through a wonderful array of items we have for you to bid on at our auction. Here is a sample of what will be offered:
Vacation Packages:
Fairmont Kea Lani (First Class round-trip airfare for two and a seven night stay at the Fairmont Kea Lani Maui.)
Wynn Las Vegas. (Package includes two VIP tickets to Cirque du Soleil and Barry Manilow.)
Colorado Ski Package: Roundtrip airfare for two and three-night ski package at Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa in Colorado.
Pebble Beach Golf Experience: First Class round-trip airfare for two and five nights at The Lodge at Pebble Beach. Includes golf for two at three world-class golf courses.
Handcrafted Solar Lighthouse:
This unique and original Garden Art is a one-of-a-kind piece and is signed and numbered by the artist. 48" TALL WITH A WORKING SOLAR LIGHT AND CLOCK *SWAROVSKI CRYSTAL ACCENTS Made by Cancer Survivor, ROBIN SMITH, in Keizer, OregonClick here to see photos of this stunning piece.
"Ghost Whisperer" Wardrobe Item:
A night gown with matching robe. This lingerie ensemble was worn in Episode 2 (Bloody Mary) of this season’s show by Jennifer Love Hewitt.

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

October 21, 2007

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.

KCSN FM PLEDGE DRIVE ON NOW TIL OCT. 28

The LA Report is a proud member of KCSN FM (88.5), and you should be too. Not just because Los Angeles Magazine gave them Best of LA honors, but because you can really get an amazing education in modern popular music by listening to their many themed shows (hence it's fitting this station's HQ is a university -- Cal State Northridge). Here are some of the programs we find to be Best Bets here at The LA Report:

THURSDAY night, late, is a show devoted to Broadway classics.

FRIDAY night there is Madly Cocktail, to get your fix of great standards in that loungey style that always makes me think of the movie Swingers, and of late great Mel Torme - especially his version of "Sunshine Superman," which is both bizarre and beautiful at the same time. After this cool show is a great program featuring all Surf classics (think Beach Boys, Jan and Dean, Ventures and other instrumental hits, and some Hawaiian/Island ditties thrown in), hosted by The Great Kahuna (aka Les Perry) and his ever-giggling Gidget-like sidekick, Surfer Girl.

SATURDAY we love the British Invasion, hosted by Les Perry from 2pm--5pm, with lots of the non-Beatles Brit hits circa 1964-1967, including the Who, Kinks, Animals, Moody Blues, Rod Stewart, Faces, Manfred Mann, and sometimes later hits like T.Rex, Badfinger, and more. The 4pm hour is a theme within a theme - Stone City, featuring nothing by Rolling Stones tunes. 5pm brings a bucket of Blues from Ann the Raven.

SUNDAY from 10am--2pm is the show MEET THE BEATLES with host Les Perry, featuring many rarities as well as hits, from both group and solo work (Les has even played an entire live show by the Beatles, from raw footage recorded at the Hollywood Bowl). Following Les on Sunday from 2pm--5pm is Charmin' Larmin's great roots-of-rock-and-roll show, with "salacious" rock plus interspersed trailers from classic B-movies from the 50s and 60s that will have you howling with laughter. Later, at 7pm, comes The Dylan Hour, an entire hour devoted to folk/rock/country/legend Bob Dylan.

There are many other shows we have heard of but not yet heard, like a Grateful Dead show, and Classical music weekday mornings, but the main thing is that this station needs to be discovered by those who have not yet found this gem, and funded by those who have. KCSN employs signal-strengtheners for those on the Westside and beyond, so they really service a lot of LA. Memberships start at $50, on par with other public radio stations here in Los Angeles, and you get great premiums (we got a $40 giftcard to Maria's Italian Kitchen for our $50, for example), as well as entry into a sweepstakes to win a cruise to Mexico. Membership also allows you to win all the numerous tickets and other prizes they give away all year long on all their shows. So listen, enjoy, and call them to pledge your support today -- 1-800-795-KCSN.

October 20, 2007

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."