MAY 31: MAC DAY LA IS BACK, ALL DAY AT CBS STUDIO CENTER, STUDIO CITY

posted by Don Rose

At the next MacDayLA on Saturday, May 31, they're offering a LOT of information in a fun atmosphere. Two optional classes to meet people's requests:
10:30 - 1:00: Creating a Brochure or Flyer in Adobe InDesign
3:30 - 6:00: Getting to Know FileMaker Pro
Each class is $50. Full info at http://www.macdayla.com/classes
NOTE: To take either class you MUST let the MacDayLA people know by NOON WEDNESDAY.

As for the MacDayLA General Schedule... they have added a few new items.

For just $15 advance ($20 cash at the door) you get a full day of varied info including:
• TWIP co-host Scott Bourne on photography
• Girls Gone Geek hostess Liana Lehua with Tips for Making Your iPhone Your Most Helpful Travel Companion
• Certified FileMaker Consultant Anton Anderson on Using a Spreadsheet vs a Database
• Expert Scott Immerman on AppleTV and it's viability for your needs
• A panel of experts on What You Should Know When You Use Wi-Fi
• Professional musician Martin Blasick showing you How to Actually Create a Song in GarageBand
• Mac author Deborah Shadovitz (who also happens to run MacDayLA) sharing insights into the MacBook Air as a possible Mac for your own use
• A lot of great laughs with The Church of Mac — Live

Additionally, they will have several breakfast discussions and at least 11 topics for lunch-time discussions. Topics include using Windows on the Mac so you may want to tell your Windows-using friends.

Radio's computer expert Jeff Levy will also be hosting a free-flowing discussion at breakfast and lunch. See http://www.macdayla.com/agenda.

They even have a party for you! 3 great bands provide the perfect atmosphere for socializing and networking. In addition to Mac users, they've invited other tech and web people for you to meet. http://www.macdayla.com/party

There is something for everyone at MacDayLA. Held at CBS Studio Center, Laurel Canyon & Ventura Blvd in Studio City. Please visit http://macdayla.com for more info and to RSVP.

HUNDREDS ENJOY STELLAR FOOD & BEVERAGE BOOTHS AT VALLEY CULTURAL CENTER'S FOOD, WINE & MICROBREW FESTIVAL; ANNUAL WOODLAND HILLS BENEFIT A BIG SUCCESS

event report by Don Rose

On May 15, 2008, the Valley Cultural Center held its 9th Annual Food, Wine & Microbrew Festival at Westfield Promenade Mall in Woodland Hills - another big success for VCC. And we mean BIG! Hundreds of happy foodies and wine/beer buffs attended, braving the raving heat to eat, drink, be merry, and bid on great live and silent auction items. Dozens of exhibits (thankfully enveloped in a giant air-conditioned tent in part of the mall's parking lot) showcased a wonderful array of food and libations, including many faves of The LA Report, such as Ruby's (super shakes and mini-burgers), Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (thank God for their Ice Blended creations, in mocha and vanilla, yum!), BJ's (excellent pizza and pasta), Trader Joes (terrific truffles and other chocolate desserts), Follow Your Heart (vegetarian food that tastes great while being good for you), Coca-Cola (giving out Cokes, water and logo-branded T-shirts), and many many more booths, all manned (or womaned) with friendly folks eager to serve. We highly recommend you attend next year. For more information about VCC and their events, visit valleycultural.org.

MAY 24: LIVE DRAW! 8 ARTISTS, 3 NUDES, 1 SUPER SCENE IN SANTA MONICA (DCA FINE ARTS GALLERY)

posted by Don Rose

DCA Fine Art announces the revival of its hugely popular "Live Draw!" art event. Live Draw! 2008 takes place at DCA's great space in Santa Monica on Sat., May 24 from 7-10pm. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit the arts program at SMASH, a neighborhood public school.

Live Draw! 2008 brings together diverse talent to draw nudes in various poses in front of a live audience. “Live Draw! gives people a rare chance to play a part in the artistic process,” says Delia Cabral, DCA's amiable owner. Art is created before guests' eyes and fine food and drink are offered, while London DJ S.I.M.O. spins hot soundtracks and the scent of pastels, oils and canvas fills the air. Artwork is priced inexpensively on the spot (ranging between $50-$200) and “bought right off the pad.”

We hear that a large number of very creative people will be attending, and the numbers summarizing the night are 8-3-1:

8 Artists: Alejandro Gehry, post pop erotica artist and son of seminal architect Frank Gehry; Katina Zinner, abstract painter, film editor and daughter of Oscar-winning film editor Peter Zinner; David Schoffman, a master and legend of life drawing; Barry Markowitz, a mixed media artist; Gus Harper, who specializes in acrylic and charcoal on canvas; Bogden Dumitrica, an expert on elegant drawings; Lynn Hanson, who creates unique ink and charcoal drawings; and Fausin Mdisa, who dazzles with latex paint and plexiglass.

3 nude models.

1 incredible live audience scene!

LIVE DRAW! May 24, 2008. Space is limited; call 310.770.2525 for tickets/reservations. DCA Fine Arts - 3107 Pico Blvd - Santa Monica, CA. 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Cost $45/pre-sale - $55/door. DCA website (for more information and to buy tickets): www.dcafineart.com

INDIANA JONES 4 UNEARTHS BOX OFFICE GOLD; SPIELBERG WEAVES AWESOME ACTION THRILL RIDE WITH A REUNITING OF PAST THEMES & CHARACTERS; FORD IN FINE FORM

film review by Don Rose

The LA Report can now recommend the two best rides of Summer 2008: the new Simpsons Ride, and "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull." The Simpsons ride opened May 19, while Indy 4 opened May 22 with expectations of boffo box office. And boffo it shall be. Why? Because Indy 4 has every element of a huge hit, from its A+ creative team (George Lucas co-wrote story, Steven Spielberg directed, top action actor Harrison Ford stars, top rising star Shia LaBoeuf co-stars, top female actress-chameleon Cate Blanchett also co-stars) to its stellar and clever action scenes. Ford is in fine form, both in delivering snappy Indianalogue and in delivering non-stop thrills -- and I can't give enough accolades to Cate's latest mesmerizing character creation, as Indy's sinister Soviet nemesis (I don't mean to be cheeky, but can you get a meaner set of cheekbones?).

To be fair, the film is not perfect. Some critics have pointed out flaws (LA's CityBeat critic and the critic on NPR's "Fresh Air", to name two), but I believe the few negatives pale in comparison with the movie's many pluses. Prediction: after viewing, you will want to return to see the action scenes again, not unlike how you go on a ride again and again. Do you quibble over the "plot" of a theme park's thrill ride? No. Think of Indy 4 in that light, and you'll feel all right, no matter what any critic says. (For more reasons why Indy 4 is a must-see, see this MSN Indy 4 story.) As for me, I also want to go back to experience Blanchett's over-the-top accent and appearance again -- and to watch closer for what I believe is the screen debut of Spielberg's daughter; listed as "Slugger" in the credits, she's in the diner scene, during which you'll see why she got that moniker.

As for Spielberg the elder, Indy 4 feels in part like a return to a long lost love. While Indiana Jones reconnects with a long lost love in the film, the director's re-ignited love seems to be his formative film collection, those wide-eyed wonder-filled works about humans' place in the universe and intelligences from other worlds. Consciously or not, the DNA of Spielbergian themes and character archetypes from Indy 1-3, Close Encounters and ET seem to have undergone a bit of retroriffic recombination as they are resurrected in his new film (not the main cinematic dish, but a delicious filling that's fulfilling, especially during the climax). The result: Indy 4 delivers a double dose of nostalgia -- for Spielberg's past super-sagas, and for the nifty fifties (the era this film takes place in).

Here's hoping an Indy 5 will soon arrive, as well as other new movies that continue to integrate the wonder-filled Spielberg self with his later "more mature" self. Like Henry "Indiana" Jones, one of the director's best traits is his refusal to let growing up mean growing old.

"Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" (aka Indy 4). Opened May 22, 2008. The LA Report recommends it. 4 out of 5 stars.

MAY 22: "HOT PICKS" FOOD AND WINE EVENT, PRESENTED BY WINE & SPIRITS MAGAZINE; BENEFITS LA SURFRIDER

posted by Don Rose

Here is a "hot" event for you, especially if you are "thirsty" this Thursday (for wine, that is), and hungry for great food, all for a great cause (thanks to http://www.socialdomain.com/ for the information):

Wine & Spirits Magazine's Los Angeles HOT PICKS Event

THURSDAY, May 22, 2008; 7 to 10 PM at the MODAA Gallery in Culver City (8609 Washington Boulevard Culver City 90232)

TASTE over 70 wines hand selected by our critics.

MEET local, young wine professionals at the center of your city’s wine culture.

SAVOR food from LA’s best restaurants, including: BottleRock, Comme Ça, Grace, Katana, Michael's, Osteria Mozza, Palate Food and Wine, The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills and more.

MUSIC by Project Ethos artist DJ Lady Sha.

BENEFITS LA Surfrider. Admission is $75 and includes a one year subscription to Wine & Spirits Magazine

PURCHASE: http://www.wineandspiritsmagazine.com/hotpicks

More Info: http://la.com.socialdomain.com/info.php?id=29283

"THE ROCKER" ROCKS; RAINN WILSON SHINES IN FUN FOX FILM, A ROLLICKING ROCKOMEDY FOR ALL AGES, WITH SOLID ACTING AND SONGS

film review by Don Rose

The sun is shining on Rainn. Actor Rainn Wilson gives a fun, fierce, funny and totally captivating star-making performance in the new Fox Atomic comedy, "The Rocker." We were hooked right at the premise: drummer (Wilson) in 80s hair-metal band (with the hilariously perfect name VESUVIUS) gets 86'd just as the band is about to break big. Two decades later, the down on his luck stuck-in-lame-job drummer has a string of more bad luck (losing job and woman, moving in with unsympathetic sis) which actually brings him a ray of good luck: the chance to be musically reborn via his nephew's new band, A.D.D. (featuring actress Emma Stone of "Superbad" fame, and Teddy Geiger as the lead singer). Let the hijinx ensue.

And ensue they do. I don't want to give everything away, just trust your pals here at The LA Report that you will laugh at loud in many places along the way, and there are stellar comedy actors aplenty in the pic, in addition to main man Rainn: Christina Applegate (we loved her in "Anchorman"), SNL cast members Fred Armisen (a former rock drummer) and Jason Sudeikis, Howard "Head of the Class" Hesseman, Jane Lynch, Jeff Garlin, Will Arnett, and more. Our only (minor) complaint is that we wished these comic talents had been used more extensively, as each of them gets only a couple of minutes in the film. But there is an old saying in show biz: always leave them wanting more. Besides, these talents, as great as they are, had to make way for Rainn's reign in this pic. His exuberant performance will probably draw comparisons to fellow funnyman Jack Black, but should also catapult Mr. Wilson to the A-list of film comedy thespians.

One more point to ponder: was this script inspired by the story of Pete Best, the drummer who was kicked out of The Beatles before that band soared to superstardom, a la fictitious Vesuvius? Perhaps. In fact, Pete is IN this film (the credits say "Pete Best as Himself") -- yet we did not notice him. Being a Beatlemaniac, I was shocked to have missed him, but turns out it was a nanocameo, a real quickie, as explained on the website Beatles Unlimited:

“Rainn’s character was in this Eighties hair band, and he got kicked out right before they became famous, just like Pete Best,” [actress Emma] Stone said of the film’s plot. “So he’s sitting at a bus stop and says ‘Man, this is tough! I can’t believe this happened to me!’, and Pete says ‘I know what you mean!’. And then the bus pulls up.” Now 65 years old, Best has learned to laugh at his misfortune, and remains so famous to Beatles fans that the makers of “The Rocker” don’t even feel the need to identify him. “No, nobody ever says ‘This is Pete Best,’” Stone revealed. “[The cameo] will just be for Beatles hardcore fans.”

"The Rocker." From FOX ATOMIC. The LA Report recommends it. 4 out of 5 stars.

GET YOUR HANDS ON CONTRABAND: WE HEART THEIR HATS! COOL STYLES, AND CELEBS DIG THEM TOO

by Don Rose

I got to see the great line of Contraband hats at last weekend's FEM event (Fashion Elements' Spring Glam at the Pacific Design Center). There were many great booths to choose from, but the one I got most mesmerized by was the Contraband section (love saying that). Their hats are hot. Not only did the ones I tried fit snugly and comfortably right from the start (something rare with me), but the style is impeccable. There were caps (regular and trucker style) with cool cutting-edge edgy patterns on them (imagine if Peter Max and Ed Hardy had a love child), as well as some thin-brimmed fedoras that were fetching as well. We honestly wanted to take everything home. Speaking of everything, the owner and designer of the Contraband goods told us that Tommy Lee obtained a bunch for use on his new reality show, so stay tuned. Other celebs who like Contraband include Paulina Rubio, Jamie Foxx and Wyclef Jean. You will dig them, too.

Contraband. Check them out at www.mycontraband.com. Phone 713 419 9901 : Contact them at info@mycontraband.com .

MAY 19, 20: PARLORPALOOZA - A PLETHORA OF PERFORMERS, PROCEEDS GO TO CHARITY, PAY WHAT YOU CAN ADMISSION

From Jeannine Frank's newsletter email:

Dear Parlor Performance Patrons, Friends & Family,

I hope you'll join me for two extraordinary nights of comedy, cabaret and solo theatre this coming Monday and Tuesday. I planned these evenings at the suggestion of some east coast performing arts presenters who promised to fly to LA if I put together my best line-up of artists whose work addresses the themes of Globalization, Immigration and Environment.

All the performers (and I as producer) are donating their time and talent, and all proceeds will be given to disaster relief organizations. You can come for any contribution -- $1 to $1,000! No questions asked, everything helps -- and the evening is always better when there's a full house!

We have 30 seats available for Monday and 50 for Tuesday -- each night is different! Please let your friends -- especially those who frequently entertain and/or plan fundraisers and special events. Take a look at the descriptions below -- I can't imagine you'd want to miss this!

Looking forward to seeing you at Steinway Hall,
Jeannine

Parlor Performances' Parlor-Palooza 2008 -- Mon. & Tues.!
8 Mini-performances nightly * Each night different!
Comedy, Cabaret, Solo Theatre & much more!
All profits to go to disaster relief organizations!
Jeannine Frank * (310) 476-6735 * Jeannine@FrankEntertainment.com
May 19,20: 7:30pm at Steinway Hall in West Los Angeles, below Fields Pianos.

Proceeds benefit disaster relief organizations! I'll have envelopes for Doctors Without Borders, UNICEF , Operation USA & Jewish World Watch -- you decide where your money goes! (Please pay cash for contibutions $20 or less - checks OK for $25 or more.)

Parlor Performances' Big Spring Showcases! 8 mini-performances nightly by comedians, cabaret artists, solo & historical shows -- all addressing themes of Immigration, Globalization & Environment!

Featured artists will include:

The Sultans of Satire (Mid-East comic relief!) - 3 different Sultans nightly!
"Sultans of Satire" features an impressive line-up of some of today's most talented comedians of Middle Eastern descent-more than a dozen men and women of Arab, Israeil, Iranian, Armenian, Greek & Turkish heritage. Sultans shows can range from 3 to 8 comedians. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001uobtXHBdSuquK3XAeHl_8zY-Uzd3BWdZKTV7WA8VFh5EADYAyJ8jenSR_L4Vq8jAQKFTVQYRdBfQI5zrwhJjTahQ-hxY1HvLfyDxHPw5g-OOG8Yc2v5xkw==

World's wittiest bass player/songwriter/singer Jay Leonhart
"Add Jay Leonhart to the small, very exclusive list of jazz humorists... ...Oscar Brown Jr., Dave Frishberg and Bob Dorough..." Don Heckman, LA Times The show begins with Leonhart attempting to give the audience its bass lesson, but sensing that maybe the audience is not so devoted to bass viol studies, his "lesson" quickly and skillfully turns into a series of funny and touching songs and vignettes about life, with or without a bass in tow. http://www.jayleonhart.com/

Award-winning monologist Jude Narita
Excerpts from Narita's award-winning dramatic and humorous one-woman plays about Asian and Asian American women celebrating our differences, while illuminating the universal similarities of us all. Narita's women are breaking stereotypes, creating true identity, surviving war, surviving internment, cherishing family, and holding onto their dreams for the future. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001uobtXHBdSuqMk2kL3l6IytzQuLnKK-fn_3qviTrgchXE6gCikltxhIJ2bjmnQgQ6lmcD6s-Sqg1A5G3IA2txoO8kbBOVlK6ZqcBcgUXSOS06mVvjC4WCbQ==

Social satirist Darryl Henriques
"Henriques reminds me of all three Marx Brothers rolled into one." LA Times ** "...Henriques is"...an amalgam of Lenny Bruce, Paul Krassner and Robin Williams: social commentary mixed with off-the-wall fantasies andphilosophical speculations, and a razor sharp wit." SF Chronicle

Brainy, Dry-witted stand-up Betsy Salkind
Comedian, writer & founding member of TERRORIST BRIDESMAIDS (4 comediennes determined to get a 2nd use out of those dresses), alumna of improv troup GUILTY CHILDREN, Salkind was staff writer for ROSEANNE and has appeared on the Tonight Show w/ Jay Leno. She graduated MIT with Master's from Sloan School of Management (thesis title: Can't You Take A Joke? A Study of Sexual Harassment Among Peers.) Preferring the security of the arts, she left her career w/ the Federal Reserve Bank to become a comedian. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=0010wzWZFWNc-CXYOkx4JwDrC6TCvP-SMtPOIonhXoOEhYmV4PZJdi5i9VuF7EpOfCgSR-rSCyXTMWT2FVyf0E7oNh1_DyckkU-ZYCMpX_HQui8utAULh0lFg==

Fred Blanco's Stories of Cesar Chavez
This one man theatrical presentation depicts the life and times of Cesar E. Chavez, one of the most inspirational and influential civil rights leaders of our time. The play offers a compelling look at the man and his struggle for equality through the eight various characters brought to life on stage. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=6nryhncab.0.mfisyicab.grcdqicab.51&ts=S0343&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.storiesofcesarchavez.com%2F

Vicki Juditz (think Sarah Vowell!) hilarious, hard-hitting new show on Going Green!
"a born storyteller... what sets her writing, and her performance, apart is her sense of humor, and an eye for the incongruous and ridiculous." L.A. Times * Frequently compared to Sarah Vowell and David Sedaris, Juditz is an Ovation Award winner (LA's Tony equivalent). "Juditz employs empathy and a self-deprecating humor that lay bare the foibles and tragedy of the human condition, causing us to reflect on our own moral choices." LA Weekly * New works feature hilarious and poignant pieces on "going green" and gun control.

Stephanie Satie's Coming to America; Refugees
"an intimate, affecting solo meditation on political and cultural persecution." Los Angeles Times "Coming to America" presents a portrait gallery of 8 women whose lives have been transformed first, by extraordinary events in their country of birth, and then by their response to America. This piece includes women from Afghanistan, Iraq, Armenia, Cambodia, El Salvador, India, Iran, Russia and the former Yugoslavia. http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=6nryhncab.0.qfisyicab.grcdqicab.51&ts=S0343&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.refugeestheplay.com%2F

ParlorPalooza. Steinway Hall, Fields Pianos 12121 W. Pico Bl. (1 door w. of Bundy, Level P2). Park free! RSVP to Jeannine Frank, (310) 476-6735 or Jeannine@FrankEntertainment.com

LOS ANGELES EVENTS FOR $1? YES (AND GOOD ONES TOO); BUCK THE TREND OF RISING PRICES FOR A BUCK OR LESS

It's a tough economy out there right now, so who wouldn't like great entertainment in LA for an mere $1 admission cost? (Then partake of Burger King's $1 value menu - Whopper Jr. for a buck ain't bad - or Taco Bell's new under-$1 menu, and you may be dubbed Dr. Wise Frugalman.) Here then are some stimulating things to do for about a buck or less in the Los Angeles area:

1. JEFF GARLIN'S COMBO PLATTER

Comedic actor and star of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" serves up his tasty comedy yukalaya (did we invent a word?). Check out this Yelp.com page for more info: Upright Citizens Brigade Theater - Hollywood - Los Angeles, CA - an excerpt: "I love Jeff Garlin's Combo Platter on Sunday nights. For $1, you see Jeff Garlin and three other ... great names in comedy, incredibly cheap admission."

2. SWAP MEETS

For example, la.com talks about this swap meet in Torrance: "ROADIUM OPEN AIR MARKET ... 2500 Redondo Beach Blvd., Torrance. Information: (800) 833-0304, www.roadium.com. Admission: $1 per car and driver, 50 cents for each additional passenger, 50 cents for seniors Monday and Friday; 50 cents per person Tuesday and Thursday; $1.25 general, 75 cents seniors, with a $5-per-car maximum Wednesday; $1.50 per car and driver, 50 cents each additional passenger, $1 senior drivers, 50 cents if arriving by the free shuttle bus Saturday and Sunday; children under 5 are always free. Shopping guide: Formerly a drive-in movie theater, the Roadium has been in operation since 1954, making it one of the oldest flea markets in California. It's open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily - Mondays are the designated day for antiques and collectibles; the rest of the week hosts more than 500 dealers selling overstock from department stores and a mishmash of discounted designer goods (use caution here - as in downtown L.A., many are fakes). Being more than 50 years old, the Roadium naturally has a legendary history, too. Back in the mid-'80s, it was the go-to place for burgeoning DJs to get the best underground records around, and it was on these very 15 acres that Eazy-E and Dr. Dre connected and L.A. hip-hop as we know it was born."

Another one for a buck or less: the Santa Fe Springs Swap Meet - Santa Fe Springs. Location: 13963 Alondra Boulevard, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 (approximately 12 minutes from Disneyland, Anaheim). Hours: Wed: 7am - 2:30pm / Thurs: 7am - 1pm / Fri: 5pm - 10pm / Sat & Sun: 7am - 5pm. Admission Fee - Wed: 50 cents / Thurs: FREE / Fri, Sat & Sun: $1. Shops: A large variety of food, drinks, beer, ice cream, and many other different types of food items are served. 99 cent items, Auto Accessories, Beauty Supplies, Canopies & Supplies, Car Stereos, Clothes, Electronics, Gift Items and Games, Hats & T-Shirts, Home & Household, Jewelry & Watches, Locksmith - Keys, Leather, Luggage, Purses, Pets & Supplies, Pictures & Paintings, Real Estate, Plants, Records & Tapes, Shoes, Sports Cards, Sporting Goods, Sunglasses, Tools, Toys, Video Games. Nearly 600+ vendors. (562) 921-4359, or (714) 523-3014; info@sfsswapmeet.com.

3. ANTELOPE VALLEY INDIAN MUSEUM

15701 Avenue M, Lancaster, CA 93535, (661) 946-3055, http://www.avim.av.org/. Exhibits: American Indian artifacts from tribes throughout the Southwest, Utah, Nevada and California. The museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as an official State Park regional museum. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends from mid-September to mid-June. Fees: $1 for adults and free for youth up to 16.

4. GORDON HOWARD MUSEUM COMPLEX AND MENTZER HOUSE

115 N. Lomita St. (museum) and 1015 W. Olive Ave. (Mentzer house, accessible up a path from museum), Burbank, CA, (818) 841-6333. Exhibits: Toys, Victorian furniture, dolls, wedding gowns, military items and antique automobiles representing the history of Burbank. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Group tours of 10 or more need reservations. Fees: $1 donation suggested. Parking is free.

5. LOS ANGELES MARITIME MUSEUM

Berth 84 at the foot of 6th St., San Pedro, CA 90731, 3105487618, http://www.lamaritimemuseum.org/. Exhibits: Memorabilia, photographs, maritime equipment, models of all types of ships and ocean liners, and exhibits focusing on California maritime history and the Port of Los Angeles. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday (with last entry at 4:30 p.m.). Closed New Year's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fees: $1 donation suggested.

6. PAY WHAT YOU CAN PERFORMANCES

There are many of these "honor system shows" in LA during the year, and in fact there is one the week of this posting: a PARLORPALOOZA show, taking place on May 19 and May 20 in West LA, with all proceeds going to charity. Jeannine Frank, the event producer and main force behind Parlor Performances and the Parlorpalooza plethora-of-performers fests, says "You can come for any contribution -- $1 to $1,000! No questions asked, everything helps -- and the evening is always better when there's a full house!" See our separate Parlor Performances post about this great pair of Pay What You Can events.

MAY 17: LACMA ARTWALK RETURNS TO MID-WILSHIRE AREA; EXPERIENCE OVER 40 GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS (FREE SELF-GUIDED TOUR), THEN LACMA AFTERPARTY ($20-$40)

posted by Don Rose

From LACMA's official website: "ArtWalk comes home! For the first time in seven years, LACMA Muse's ArtWalk returns to the Mid-Wilshire area. Experience over forty galleries and museums in a one-mile radius while building knowledge of the local scene and enjoying live music, artist lectures, food, drinks, and much more! More information on the free self-guided tour plus program guide will be online soon, so be sure to check back for more information. When night falls, the fun continues at LACMA with the ArtWalk After Party taking place in the BP Grand Entrance. Tickets for the After Party are going fast, so get yours today! Tickets are $20 for Muse members, $30 for LACMA non-Muse members, and $40 for the general public. Tickets can be purchased at the LACMA Box Office, by calling 323 857 6010, or by clicking here and selecting ArtWalk After Party from the Quick Tix drop down menu on the right."

ArtWalk, Saturday, May 17 -- 12 pm–11 pm. At LACMA Art Museum (on Wilshire just East of Fairfax) and surrounding Mid-Wilshire area. Highly recommended by The LA Report.

MAY 17: "SPRING GLAM" FEM EVENT AT PACIFIC DESIGN CENTER; SALE FEATURES OVER 40 HOT DESIGNERS' ITEMS AT UP TO 60% OFF RETAIL

posted by Don Rose

This Saturday brings a sale that’s always a huge hit in LA: Spring Glam. This fem fashion elements event features amazing brands like Fendi, Sergio Rossi, YSL, Pucci shoes, Joe’s and Hudson jeans and more. Spring Glam lets you pick up great items from over 40 hot designers, at up to 60% off retail prices.

For VIPs, the Spring Glam event features two extra hours of early shopping, plus an open bar featuring Marani vodka, Monster Energy drink, and natural soda Izze (one of The LA Report's favorite beverages, especially their Clementine flavor).

More info at: http://www.gotofem.com/.

Saturday, May 17th, 2008 from Noon to 5 pm, Pacific Design Center – Conference Center, 8687 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069. VIP Preview - $15 - 12noon entry; General Admission - $5 ($7 at the door, cash only) - entry after 2 pm. On-site parking available; enter on San Vicente.

MAY 15: DEADLINE TO GET $25 FREE FROM REVOLUTION MONEY EXCHANGE, A NEW PAYPAL-LIKE SERVICE

Revolution Money Exchange sounds like a service very similar to PayPal, but without any fees (that is what they claim). The email I got said:

"It's free
Signing up is free. Every online transaction between accountholders is free. Online transfers to and from your bank account are free.
It's secure
Every transaction is secure, and your account is issued through First Bank & Trust, Brookings, SD, Member FDIC.
Special Bonus - Get $25
Upon approval of your account registration, we will send $25 to your account. Additional Terms and Conditions apply, click here to review."

May 15, 2008 is apparently the deadline to get the free $25 bonus for signing up (not confirmed whether they may extend the offer, so look into it right away if interested). We have not signed up yet, but are seriously considering it. Again, here is the link to the signup bonus.

MAY 16: JETBLUE DEADLINE FOR $50 OFF FUTURE TRAVEL IF YOU BUY A TICKET NOW

Here is the JetBlue $50-off-future-travel offer's fine print:


Offer expires 11:59 p.m. MDT May 16, 2008. TrueBlue Members who register for this promotion at jetblue.com/50 and purchase roundtrip travel on JetBlue between May 5 and May 16, 2008 for travel between May 5 and June 11, 2008 ("Qualifying Travel") are eligible to receive a $50 Voucher toward future JetBlue travel between September 3 and October 31, 2008. Registration must be done prior to travel or you will not qualify for the Voucher. Booker and traveler must be the same person. If booker and traveler are different, Voucher will not be awarded. Voucher will be awarded only upon completion of the return portion of the Qualifying Travel. Qualifying travel must be completed by June 11, 2008. Redemption of TrueBlue Award Flights, Travel Certificates, or other non-revenue travel is not eligible for this Offer. If Qualifying Travel is cancelled, changed outside the eligible travel window, or is not flown, Voucher will not be awarded or, as applicable, forfeited. Voucher(s) will be awarded electronically on or after June 22, 2008. If a single itinerary has more than one instance of Qualifying Travel, only one Voucher will be awarded. If booker is not a TrueBlue Member or has not registered for this promotion prior to travel, Voucher will not be awarded. Offer may not be combined with other special offers and is available only for newly-booked travel; changes to existing travel are not eligible. Voucher may be applied only to future JetBlue travel that takes place between September 3 and October 31, 2008. If Voucher travel is changed outside of this window, Voucher will be forfeited and you will be responsible fare difference. Voucher may be used only toward newly-booked travel and may not be applied to existing travel or changes to travel. Voucher will be deducted off of total fare. Any amount that may remain on Voucher will be forfeited. Voucher may be used on roundtrip or one-way flights. Voucher is non-transferable and may not be combined with other offers.

MAY 29: HEAL THE BAY ANNUAL "BRING BACK THE BEACH" DINNER BASH, SANTA MONICA

Join us (us being the fine folks at Heal The Bay) on May 29, 2008, for Heal the Bay's “Bring Back the Beach” Dinner. The annual event begins at 5:00pm with a cocktail reception and silent auction. Dinner, live auction and musical entertainment will follow. Location: Barker Hangar (or is it Barkar? I have seen both spellings in print), on Airport in lovely Santa Monica (from the 10 freeway, take Bundy south, pass Ocean Park, go Right on Airport, then look for the signs and all the pretty people; the Hangar is on the right side).

Brian Wilson, a fave of The LA Report, was one of last year's dinner Honorees, and actresses Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Amy Smart both enjoyed last year's dinner. 2008 promises to be just as fun and rewarding. We recommend you attend.

MAY 15: VALLEY CULTURAL CENTER'S ANNUAL FOOD, WINE & MICROBREW FESTIVAL, WOODLAND HILLS

Summer fun has officially begun when the VCC's excellent epicurean event spotlights dozens of Food, Wine and Microbrew vendors and a great silent auction in a festive atmosphere

posted by Don Rose

This Thursday, one of The LA Report's favorite annual events returns to Woodland Hills. Experience the ultimate in dining indulgence at Valley Cultural Center's 89th Annual Summer Food, Wine & Microbrew Festival. The event will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2008 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Westfield Promenade (corner of Erwin St. and Topanga Canyon Blvd.) in Woodland Hills. This year’s festivities will take place under a 25,000 square-foot luxurious venue which is now climate controlled for your enjoyment.

Guests will have the opportunity to sample delectable and taste-tempting items from over 27 food vendors including; BJ’s Restaurant, Breeze (An American CafÈ at Warner Center Marriott), Calitalia Italian and California Cuisine, Cena to Go, Charlie G’s Prime Steak House, Cornucopia Caterers, Dandy Don’s Homemade Ice Cream, Fleming’s Prime Steak House and Wine Bar, Follow Your Heart, Gyu Kaku Japanese BBQ, Holiday Inn – Woodland Hills, Kate Mantilini – Woodland Hills, La Finestra, Maggiano’s Little Italy, Nicola’s Kitchen, Nothing bundt Cakes, Pomodoro Cucina Italiana, Poquito Mas, Red Fish, Ruby’s Diner, Ruth’ Chris Steak House, Sierra’s Restaurant & Mission Burrito, Spark Woodfire Grill, The El Paso BBQ Company, The Rack – Woodland Hills Promenade, Trader Joes – West Hills/Woodland Hills and Whole Foods Market.

For wine and other beverages there will be over 24 vendors including Caymus Vineyards, Duckhorn Vineyards, Duke of Bourbon, Giessinger Winery, Henry Wine Group – Wines from Spain and Argentina, John Alan Winery, Krupp Brothers Estates, Louis M. Martini Winery, Lucas and Lewellen Vineyards, Inc., Maddelena Vineyard Brands, Riedel Crystal, Robert Talbott Vineyards, Schramsberg Vineyards, Silver Oak Cellars & Twomey Cellars, Villa Spalla Vineyards/Winery, Anheuser Busch, Fireman’s Brew, Firestone-Walker Brewing Company, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, The Great Beer Company Inc., Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Company, Coca-Cola, Maui Wowi Hawiian Coffee & Smoothies and Rocky Roaster Coffee.

“Each year since 2000 our Food, Wine & Microbrew Festival has continued to expand and grow beyond our expectations. We anticipate another very successful fun-filled evening this year of experiencing the ultimate in dining indulgence including the tasting of fine wine, great beer and a mix of virgin beverages. Live music will be on hand with a wonderful live & silent auction. This pinnacle was achieved because of the incredible support of our board members, event committee, volunteers and the contributions made by our sponsors and auction donors. We would also like to thank local business leaders, families and friends who attend this event,” said Lois Curran-Klein, Chair of this year’s event.

Said Sarah Richardson, Marketing Director of Westfield Topanga and Promenade: “Westfield is a proud supporter of Valley Cultural Center and we are delighted to host VCC’s Food & Wine Festival at Westfield Promenade each year. The strong partnership between Westfield and Valley Cultural Center has always been a natural fit as we are both consistently seeking to identify opportunities to enrich our local communities. The Food & Wine Festival
is a phenomenal event that gets better every year. It is an evening of food, drink, auctions, raffles, entertainment and networking that we look forward to sharing with VCC and our neighbors in the San Fernando Valley.”

Westfield returns as the event’s Presenting Sponsor in addition to A-Rental Connection, Coca-Cola, Duke of Bourbon, Universal Services of America and Valley News Group as sponsors of the event. Net proceeds directly benefit the Valley Cultural Center, which produces FREE community programming such as Concerts in the Park, Movies in the Park, Dennis P. Zine’s July 4th Extravaganza and Monday Morning Concerts for children, just to name a few.

Ticket Info

Tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door. Group rates are $45 per ticket when purchasing 10 tickets or more. Tickets can be purchased at the Duke of Bourbon (20908 Roscoe Blvd, Canoga Park) Valley Cultural Center (21550 Oxnard St., Suite #470, Woodland Hills), and at Westfield Topanga or Promenade (6100 or 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd.) at the Concierge Desk. You may also order tickets via the telephone with your credit card by calling (818) 704-1358 or by visiting us on the internet at www.valleycultural.org.

About Valley Cultural Center

Founded in 1975, the Valley Cultural Center serves the greater San Fernando Valley as the prominent resource in promoting the performing and visual arts. With the active support and participation of the community, our mission is to entertain, enrich and educate current and future generations. We offer diverse programs and events as well as recognize outstanding achievements in the arts. For more information, please call (818) 704-1358 or visit www.valleycultural.org. If you enjoy the VCC's programs and special events, you may want to explore the perks of becoming a member.

Valley Cultural Center, 21550 Oxnard Street, Suite #470, Woodland Hills, CA 91367. 818-704-1358. www.valleycultural.org ; vcultural@sbcglobal.net .

MAY 14: METALLICA & SCARS ON BROADWAY IN CONCERT TO BENEFIT THE SILVERLAKE CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC

posted by Don Rose

Silverlake Conservatory of Music will be celebrated with an extraordinary evening of musical entertainment taking place Wednesday, May 14 at The Wiltern (3790 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90010). Metallica will appear with Scars On Broadway, the opening band fronted by Daron Malakian and drummer John Dolmayan from the band System of a Down.

Silverlake Conservatory of Music (SCM) was founded by Flea, bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Keith Barry, dean of the nonprofit. This unprecedented benefit will raise funds for the SCM. Money raised will go toward programs, operations and scholarships for low-income students whose families would otherwise be unable to afford instruments and/or lessons. The school’s summer camp program and new building initiative will also benefit from the proceeds.

General Admission Tickets will go on sale Sunday, May 11th at 10:00am through www.ticketmaster.com at a price of $200 per ticket.

Limited VIP tickets at $500 each will be available only for purchase at Silverlake Conservatory of Music (3920 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. 90039) or by calling 323-665-3363. The VIP tickets will include Loge special assigned seating, giftbag, two drink tickets, and entry into the Silverlake Conservatory hosted afterparty to be held at the Wiltern.

100% of all ticket sales will go directly to the support of the Silverlake Conservatory of Music and attendance is limited to only 2,200 guests.

About Silverlake Conservatory of Music

Born of the resolve of Flea and long-time friend and fellow musician Barry to fill the void left by music education program cuts in public schools, SCM's focus is on the youth of Silverlake. Children and adults from all over Los Angeles are welcome and encouraged to participate. Flea and Barry, who met at Fairfax High School, share a love for music that was nurtured in Fairfax's music program. Passionate about the benefits of music education, their desire to give something back resulted in the Silverlake Conservatory of Music. "We believe," say the founders, "that the study of music enriches not only the life of the musician, but the community and society as well." The Conservatory's eight classrooms are filled with instruments, teachers and students, with instruction, discussion, laughter and, of course, lots of music. To these students, the SCM represents a future full of the joy of music and the sense of accomplishment felt by those who make it.

DIGITAL TV TUNERS, $40 OFF THANKS TO UNCLE SAM; TRANSITION BEFORE FEB. 2009 DEADLINE TO ENJOY LOCAL & NEW PROGRAMMING IN HD QUALITY ON YOUR ANALOG TV

As you may know, FEB. 2009 is the month when analog TV broadcasts are officially scheduled to switch over to digital transmission. But what if you still have an analog TV set? Never fear, the government is here, to help you make the transition. How? They offer a $40 gift card/coupon to be used toward the purchase of a new digital TV tuner (most cost between $40 and 80, depending on brand, so a new tuner can be free or close to it). A friend of mine paid $20 net (after the $40 savings) and loves his new tuner, since he not only gets crystal clear local stations, but other stations he could never access before (for example, PBS has four to explore). Plus, they come in with HD quality.

Think of a new digital tuner as HD Radio for TV. As for the $40 gift from the government, you can get more information at www.dtv2009.gov or click the links below; think of this gift as Stimulus Check, Jr.

Tell me more about the digital TV transition
What are my options?
Apply for a Coupon
Locate a TV Converter Box Retailer near you
Check out Frequently Asked Questions
Our Partners
Questions about Low Power/Translator Stations?

FINAL DRAFT & INKTIP: WRITER TOOLS TIMES TWO (FROM MOVIEMAKER MAGAZINE EMAIL)

FINAL DRAFT, INC. provides filmmakers the tools they need to develop, write, format and sell their scripts. Final Draft software automatically formats to Hollywood's stringent rules and offers filmmakers tools like Tagger to help them break down, or Tag their scripts. Script magazine, a Final Draft publication, provides in-depth coverage on the craft and business for writing for film and TV, and Final Draft's events and services help writers gain industry access and provide feedback on their screenplays. Visit http://www.finaldraft.com/ to learn more about Final Draft software, Script magazine, Take A Meeting, Big Break and ScriptXpert.

Do what works! Showcase your scripts on INKTIP — the only site where scripts and writers are consistently acquired. From the scripts/writers that have been found through the InkTip network, 48 movies have been produced. For details, see http://www.inktip.com/prod.php. Through the Preferred Newsletter, writers have optioned their scripts and been hired to write. Additionally, InkTip sends out a printed magazine to industry professionals with loglines from writers on the Website. Get your scripts seen at http://www.inktip.com/.

TESLA MOTORS GRAND OPENING: EVs FOR THE UPPER CRUST COMBINE LOTUS-LIKE LOOKS WITH SUSTAINABILITY; LET YOUR WILD SIDE SHINE, WESTSIDE RIDE IN STYLE!

Event Report

Ready to drop six figures on a clean ride? Want to see how the rich and famous roll green? Check out the Tesla EV. Showroom now open at 11163 Santa Monica Blvd, in West LA; to schedule a test drive, call 310.473.8337. The very-high-performance (and high expectation-laden) electric car is ready to drive. It looks like a Lotus with fast acceleration (0-60 in 3.9 seconds) and superb sound system. More info at www.teslamotors.com. Below is a report from the showroom opening party, excerpted from the Sustainable Transport Club newsletter produced by Speakers Press:

Wow! I just got home from Tesla's grand opening of their first ever store located on the west side of LA, hard against the 405 freeway on Santa Monica Blvd. We've been anticipating this moment for some time, and we were not disappointed. As it was rush hour on the west side, which means driving is not any faster than walking, I chose to leave my beautiful wife the RAV while I drove the Vectrix. The Vectrix being a motorcycle, I was able to lane split and so I was there in about 10 minutes.

I pulled up just as three beautiful Tesla Roadsters took off with excited passengers. Stefano Paris, Plug In America's resident documentarian, was shooting tape as I grabbed one of the Tesla parking spots, this being a very tough neighborhood in which to find parking. The party was just getting underway as I saw many friends including Chris Paine, Director of "Who Killed the Electric Car?" and Chelsea Sexton, Linda Nicholes and many more.

Lots of free drinks and food got folks in a great mood, but the rides in the Tesla were the real hit. It had been almost two full years since I rode in one of those phenomenal cars, so I was ready for another turn. The driver behaved himself on the side streets until he was able to get out on Sepulveda with no one in front of us for a couple of blocks. Bam! he hit the accelerator and the adrenaline shot through my body providing me with a jolt that my first martini couldn't begin to dampen. Time for a second. I spent a lot of time just bringing people to the Tesla line for a ride. It was so much fun watching them as they got out with that big grin on their faces. My favorite was Marvin Campbell's son. This kid was beside himself with glee as he got in, and even more so when he got out.

It was fun talking to Elon Musk, chair of Tesla and the president, Ze'ev Driori and his lovely wife, Carolyn. The new Tesla sales manager for SoCal, Jeremy seemed as pleased as you can imagine someone would be who just landed the plum job of selling these incredible machines. The ride home on the Vectrix was fun, but all I could think about was how can I get my hands on one of those Roadsters. Time to go to bed and sleep on it.

Paul Scott

******

Note: You can sign up to receive the Sustainable Transport Club newsletter by going to www.sustainableclub.org or calling 310-450-7419 or by emailing to main@sustainableclub.org. They also have a group discussion area at http://groups.google.com/group/sustainableclub?lnk=srg. Speakers Press produces this newsletter for the Sustainable Transport Club. You are encouraged to contribute articles that support developing sustainable transportation. Authors contribute electronic first serial rights only and retain all other rights. The newsletter is Copyright Speakers Press May 2008 - All rights reserved. You are authorized to electronically forward all or part provided this copyright notice is included.

CHARLIE SCOLA THROWS BOFFO BORDERS BOOKSTORE BASH FOR HIS NEW BOOK "PARTY PLANNING SECRETS;" NET PROCEEDS BENEFIT MAKE A WISH

Event Report by Don Rose, Los Angeles, CA : May 8, 2008

Wow. For a book signing, it was quite a party. Best Borders Books bash, bar none.

At today's creative colorful colossal circus-like event at Borders Books in the Westfield Century City mall, Charlie Scola proved he not only knows how to throw a party for celebrities and VIPs, but also for himself. "Party Charlie" was the man of the hour, center of attention, signing his new book "Party Planning Secrets."

Never had I seen a booksigning event totally take over a bookstore, with activities in every corner. For example, there was the closeup magic of Paul "Fig" Fegen; speaking of parties, Fig's New Years shindigs were legendary - his being the last place I saw Wilt the Stilt Chamberlain (as well as the only place). Speaking of tall, Charlie's party also featured stiltwalkers. Then there were the fortune tellers foretelling people's futures under a mini tent, plus old style upright videogames being played by happy kids, a spinning prize wheel for winning Party Charlie mugs, two bubbly blonde babes from Charlie's "Naked Catering" company passing out giftbags (yes, wearing clothes), excellent food (featuring Chinese Chicken Salad and other tasty bites), a couple of open bars featuring Absolut Vodka, a raffle of cool prizes... and, of course, a line of folks waiting for the chance to get Charlie's John Hancock on their books (all net proceeds being donated to the charity Make A Wish).

Judging by all the celebs in the video montage playing on TVs throughout the store, Charlie is a very well connected guy, but he is also the nicest and humblest person to talk with, as I had the privilege of doing a few days ago. We recommend you buy Mr. Scola's book, which will not only help you throw killer parties but will be sending money to a great cause, too. I just hope Charlie will pen his autobiography next, because the brief highlights of his life that he relayed to me (full of peaks and valleys that ultimately led to great success) sounds like it would make a great read.

Special thanks to publicist Teri Danz for her assistance, and to Charlie for being such a gracious guy. Kudos to both for throwing a very cool affair.

MAY 8: CELEBRITY PARTY PLANNER AND CATERER, CHARLIE SCOLA, PREMIERES NEW BOOK AT BORDERS BOOK SIGNING AND BENEFIT EVENT

Charlie Scola, Party Planner and Caterer To The Stars, Turns Author with New Book Release

Charlie Scola (aka “PartyCharlie”), Celebrity Party Planner, Caterer, and Columnist, premieres his new book “Party Planning Secrets: The Ultimate Guide To A Successful Party” at a book signing event on Thursday, May 8 at Border’s Westfield Century City Mall from 5:30-8pm. All net proceeds from the book sales benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Greater Los Angeles. The exciting event will feature food, drinks, entertainment, and offer partygoers the opportunity to purchase the book for a good cause.

A leading innovator in party planning and catering for the last 30 years, Mr. Scola shares his secrets to creating successful parties and celebrations that have a life of their own. “Charlie’s Five Steps make it clear how to create the energy for any party or celebration and make it a success, “says Steven McPherson, President, ABC Entertainment. Notes Will & Grace star, Eric McCormack, “it’s about time the world learned the secret of those little burgers.” A labor of love, “the book is my way of sharing my experience,” says Mr. Scola, “and being a guide through the world of great entertaining.”

Affectionately known as “PartyCharlie”, Mr. Scola has catered events and planned parties with, for, and in honor of, a large roster of famous celebrities including: Jennifer Aniston (two events honoring her with Brad Pitt attending), Elton John, Tom Cruise, John Travolta, Jon Lovitz, Bill Maher, Dana Carvey, Bob Saget, and more. His credits include the grand opening of Universal Hollywood’s Citywalk for 7,000 guests, Hugh Hefner’s Millennium Christmas Party at the Playboy Mansion, Rod Stewart’s birthday party, and many more. He is an award winning Toastmaster, speaker, and columnist on party planning and catering, and also, the Chair of The Sherry Lansing Humanitarian of the Year Award, and on the Board of the Century City Rotary. A dedicated philanthropist, Mr. Scola has appeared live on the Jerry Telethon and donates to countless charities.

MAY IN LA: GETTY'S "EMERGENCE", GEFFEN'S "EMERGENCY"

Being wordsmiths with a word jones, we couldn't resist two current events that are not only high caliber but highly similar in venue name and work title: Emergence at the Getty and Emergency at the Geffen.

Bill Viola's Emergence is at the Getty Center until June 15th. Getty Museum - 1200 Getty Center Drive - Los Angeles (Brentwood area) - Bill Viola's video installation Emergence (source: Metromix).

Meanwhile, at the Geffen Playhouse, the one man show Emergency is having its West Coast Premiere and runs until May 25th. Award-winning artist Daniel Beaty portrays a cast of 40 characters who all respond to a stunning phenomenon. A slave ship rises out of the Hudson River in front of the Statue of Liberty sending the nation into a whirlwind of emotion and exploration in this solo tour de force featuring slam poetry, multi-character transformation and song. In his critically acclaimed one-man show, Beaty takes us on our own 400-year journey in order to see a clear picture of where we stand now. Through the character's various testimonies on identity and personal freedom, Emergency weaves a stirring commentary on modern black life. Performance Schedule: Tuesday – Thursday: 7:30 pm, Friday: 8:00 pm, Saturday: 4:00 pm & 8:30pm, Sunday: 2:00 pm & 7:00pm. Ticket Price $35.00-$74.00. (source: Geffen Playhouse website).

MAY 7: KIDS IN THE HALL, LIVE! FREE! "SECRET" SHOW AT STEVE ALLEN THEATRE, HOLLYWOOD

Kids In The Hall show tonight for Free! Yep, tis true. May 7 : 10 p.m. start time (or whenever they get the expected huge crowd seated). Price: yes, it is not a typo, it is Free -- but first come first served for tickets, so try to be early for best chances at a seat (and hopefully they will let latecomers stand in the back... or, perhaps, In The Hall).

In case you actually need an explanation of who KITH are, they are five men who do cutting edge sketch comedy, used to be on HBO, made a film, tour on occasion, are from Canada, sometimes dress as women, and are always hilarious while frequently thought provoking.

Thanks to METROMIX for listing this event on their website (and to us for reading it).

KITH, aka Kids in the Hall. Live show. Free. 10pm, Steve Allen Theatre (in East Hollywood), 4773 Hollywood Boulevard, just West of Vermont, Los Angeles, CA 90027. Event Phone Number: 323-666-4268. http://www.steveallentheater.com

MAY 2-4: PAM ANDERSON ESTATE SALE (FROM URBANDADDY EMAIL)

We at The LA Report love UrbanDaddy and Thrillist, the two emailing services that always send out the coolest LA happenings and, in many ways, are the male-oriented version of DailyCandy. (We also love FlavorPill, so there are your top 4 email services you should definitely subscribe to!) This weekend, we give UrbanDaddy the prize for coolest-and-oddest happening. Here is their description of the Pam Anderson Estate Sale:

After a long, hard week, sometimes you have things you need to get off your chest.

Which explains why, in this beachside city like no other in the world, you might be boarding a bus this weekend to rifle through the personal belongings of Baywatch's most famously buoyant alum—welcome to Pamela Anderson's Estate Sale. (Yes, really.)

Since the actress-activist-lifeguarding legend isn't making the address public (wonder why), you'll have to board a shuttle from a Malibu market...or a high-school parking lot. Once it has deposited you on the property, you're free to peruse 5,000 square feet of poolside furniture, bicycles, tools, French country furniture, chandeliers and even an electric car—all with a history that will enliven your own enclave with a regal nod to eras past. (Like the '90s.)

You'll also find a new Jacuzzi (which might be tricky getting back on the shuttle) and a lot of Miss Anderson's designer shoes and clothes that'll make great gifts for your lady...well, maybe. No word on any red swimsuits. Pamela Anderson's Estate Sale, May 2-4, see website for shuttle pickup locations.

MAY 2: 12th ANNUAL CINCO DE MAYO EVENT AT HISTORIC GILMORE ADOBE TO BENEFIT PARA LOS NINOS

Tony Plana (Ugly Betty), Adam Rodriguez (CSI Miami), Actor Benicio Del Toro Invite You to “Bailemos – Let’s Dance!”

posted by Don Rose

This is another annual event that is highly recommended by The LA Report for its huge turnout of eclectic Angelenos -- from professional types to hipsters and fashionistas -- and we encourage you to check it out. Also, you will be helping a great cause. Here are the details:

Who:

Event Honorary Co-Chair Tony Plana (Ugly Betty)
Event Honorary Co-Chair Adam Rodriguez (CSI Miami)
Event Honorary Co-Chair Benicio Del Toro (Sin City, 21 Grams, Traffic)
Shalim Ortiz (Heroes)
Kimberly Kevon Williams (Days of Our Lives)
Diana Maria Riva (Lifetime’s Side Order of Life)
600 cool people!

What:

12th annual Para Los Niños Cinco de Mayo Celebration, “Bailemos – Let’s Dance!”

When:

Friday, May 2, 2008
6:30 p.m. – Midnight

Where:

The Gilmore Adobe (behind The Grove shopping mall)
6301 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Why:

This historic private adobe home and garden built in 1852 is transformed annually for this event into a hip nightclub setting complete with VIP cabañas. The event will include silent and live auctions, catering by Casablanca Restaurant, live Latin music, a DJ, and tours of the old homestead. The live auction will also take place simultaneously in an online forum, allowing bidders who cannot attend the party to participate. Prizes that will be auctioned off include:
· The ultimate Juanes Fan Package – concert tickets, meet-and-greets, a signed guitar, and a collection of CDs
· VIP tickets, backstage passes to the upcoming Pepe Aguilar concert
· Weekend getaways to Cabo San Lucas and Taos, New Mexico
· Lunch with State Assembly Speaker-Elect Karen Bass or City Controller Laura Chick
· Over 70 other extraordinary items, including dazzling estate jewelry, helicopter fly-along, meal with a private chef, a David Hockney painting, a Bentley car rental, makeovers, and baseball, soccer, miniature golf and bowling packages

All proceeds support Para Los Niños programs, which serve thousands of children, youth, and families living in poverty in Southern California. Last year the event raised $650,000 – making it the organization’s largest fundraiser in its nearly thirty year history!

Para Los Niños opened its doors in 1980 in response to the plight of children living in Skid Row hotels. Initially, 45 children received care at the agency; today, in its 28th year of operation, Para Los Niños assists 3,500 low-income children each week and 5,000 families every year from 24 sites in some of Southern California’s most economically challenged neighborhoods.

The organization’s core services include early child development and education, a Charter School (K-5), after-school enrichment, youth diversion and delinquency prevention, youth workforce services, and a life skills training and academic assistance program for transitioning foster youth. In addition, Para Los Niños offers support to at-risk families, including child abuse prevention and intervention, mental health services and comprehensive family support. For more information, visit www.paralosninos.org.

MAY 2-4: LOS ANGELES MODERNISM SHOW AND SALE RETURNS TO SANTA MONICA CIVIC AUDITORIUM

The Los Angeles Modernism Show is one of The LA Report's favorite events every year, featuring a fascinating collection of exhibit booths and a lively upscale crowd of attendees. A three-day event that kicks off with a benefit opening on May 2nd from 6--9pm, the LA Modernism Show combines an expo and sale, and is especially geared to those who appreciate the decorative, functional, fine and applied arts of the 20th century (although mid-century might be more accurate -- that magical era circa the 1950s seems to most embody what Modernism is about). Lovers of nostalgia and the coolest furniture imaginable will also greatly enjoy the show, which takes place at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (corner Main and Pico).

More information at: http://www.lamodernism.com/ (note: their links are a bit small on this page, so make sure to look near the bottom, in the middle; use these links to get more information).