Biochemist expert Dr. Barry Sears explains the answer to the widely-asked question: Why are Americans are getting fat? He describes the dangerous trend of obesity from a very scientific standpoint, which may help those struggling with weight issues to find the answer to fight the battle of the bulge and finally win.Dr. Sears:   Well, we actually have two reasons to explain this:

Either people who gain weight are either people who are morally inferior because they eat too many calories and don’t exercise enough. Or something more insidious is happening. I for one believe it is the second: The reason people are getting fatter is because of our genes in those who are genetically-pre-disposed are being turned on…turned on by very recent changes in the American diet, and that’s fueling our obesity epidemic, and that’s a very scary statistic.

The reason why? Because you don’t know whether or not you’re genetically-susceptible. And what are the two primary changes in our diet that fuel this?

1. The increase of vegetable oils. The things which are now the cheapest form of calories in the world’s diet.  Things like soybean oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, safflower oil. All these are rich in Omega 6 fatty acids. These are the fatty acids, that, if we consume too much, increase inflammation in our bodies.

2. And this inflammation can be accelerated by the increase of refined carbohydrates. What are those? Yes, they’re junk food, but basically it’s anything that’s white: white bread, white potatoes, white pasta, white rice. And you begin to see that now, if you are genetically pre-disposed, as 70% of Americans are, that if your diet is composed of more refined carbohydrates and more vegetable oils, that basically you’re setting up an inflammatory fire, that’s going to turn on these ancient genes, that will make you fat and keep you fat. It’s a very complex situation – it’s more complex than “eat less, exercise more”. That has never worked. Don’t you think every overweight person has tried that and failed? Had they failed because they were ‘morally inferior’? No. It’s because they were given the wrong advice.

And that’s what the Zone Diet does, it tries to give you a blueprint, to take the food ingredients you like to use, and put them into a dietary format that allows you to take control of your genes, and by doing so, retake control of your future.

www.ZoneDiet.com

Read more about Dr. Sears here…

LA’s The Place chief Jane Emery interviews “Fashion Star” winner, designer Kara Laricks via Skype about her win and her new designs in 3 different department stores, including Macy’s.

LA’s The Place: Kara,  after a long season of tough competition, a lot of great designs on Fashion Star, you have won the show. You proved John Vavartos indeed did have good taste – he was a big supporter of yours during this process… How does it feel, after years of hard work, and having gone through this toughest competition against other brilliant designers, to come out on top?

Kara Laricks: You know, it just feels absolutely incredible! It’s been a long time dream to be able to realize the visions, I guess, I have in my head with regards to designs and the opportunity to see them now in 3 of the most wonderful retailers is just beyond what I could have imagined for myself.

LATP: Now, if you can sum up your brand, your style that you impart to your designs in four words, what would that be?

KL: Hmm, let me think. I would say masculine inspired with a feminine fit. That might have been 5 words, but there you go.

LATP: That’s ok – you’re allowed! Very nice. Now I understand you impart an ‘androgynous look’ – can you explain a little bit about what that is behind all your designs?

KL: Yes, of course. I just love a masculine meets a feminine aesthetic so I try to create masculine-inspired details. For example, a welt pocket or a tie detail and really turn it into something that is lovely and feminine, but you know, give it that little extra special edge and uniqueness.

LATP: Amazing… Now, I don’t think I’ve seen this too much out there in the fashion world. This is really your own unique taste.

KL: That is what I love to hear. It feels so incredible to have an unique style and an unique vision in this saturated market, in the fashion market were there is so much that does look very similar. It feels incredible to be able to stand apart. It really is one of the best feeling in the world. Thank you!

LATP: Personally, I’m tired of seeing the same old styles sort of just, revamped. You know, nobody is breaking out and coming up with something new that we haven’t seen decade after decade, I congratulate you on that!

KL: Thank you, I am here for you.

LATP: Made my day! So, I understand you have some of the styles there, can we take a look at some of your designs?

KL: My favorite part! I am so thrilled to show you! What I brought with me today are three gorgeous looks for Macy’s and you know through the course of this show I really relied on Caprice to guide me in terms of what the Macy’s customers wants. So I listened very very well, hopefully, to make sure I can get the Macy’s customer’s versatility and things she can really wear to the office and then change up a little bit and wear it in the evening.

So the first look that I want to show you is kind of my signature tie blouse for Macy’s. You know, I had to get a tie in there somewhere and just because it is a tie doesn’t mean it has to be very masculine. It is really a great feminine fit, but with that masculine detail, and then just paired with a gorgeous pair of black trousers. I love it. They have really subtle pleats in front and then a great welt pocket in the back with a flattering fit for quite a few body types. That’s look number one and now, look number two…

LATP: Save one for me!

KL: Oh, my gosh. I love it! And then look number two, I love this A-line dress because again I feel it’s very flattering to many body types, but I wanted to stay very true to that Kara Laricks-aesthetic and make sure I included men’s wear detail, like the little chest pocket… And this one too has really cute welt pockets in the back and I just think it is an unique special little detail for the Macy’s customer and then with that bold plaid… so good.

LATP:  Very exciting…

KL: Thank you. And then last but not least, I love this. A one piece, a little romper and I love the fact that it look kinda slouchy and funky in the front, you know… It’s got this really great men’s wear feel, but when you turn around it has a very foxy, kind of sexy racer back and I love the pairing of the two and the fact that its just an easy single piece to pick up, is what’s most appealing. Jacket during the day, throw it off at night and you are good to go.

LATP: It’s a very exciting time for consumers, and I would advise everybody get over there as fast as possible because these are going to sell out!

KL: I love the sound of that.

LATP:  Kara, one more question: How much did your mentors have to do with the direction that you took?

KL: You know, I went into Fashion Star with the same perspective on design for me as I left with, however, my time on Fashion Star I really tried to be a sponge and I really tried to soak in every bit of expertise, both the mentors and the buyers were willing to give. It was a priceless experience and it is something I wish for any emerging designer. It really, really has helped me to be able to speak about to speak about my brand, it’s helped me to develop my brand and it’s really absolutely thrilling.

LATP: So you were flexible, you weren’t just so focused on what you wanted to do, you took what you wanted to do and you took advice and evolved it out, and… look at the result!

KL: I know, I’m so pleased. I am so pleased!

LATP: So, congratulations, we’re going to be watching you, you are definitely a name to watch over the years. I’m so happy for you.

KL: I love it. Thank you so very very much.

LA’s The Place chief Jane Emery interviewed Caprice Willard via Skype at Fashion Star‘s New York studios.


LA’s The Place: Caprice, I wanted to ask you – I’ve really enjoyed you on the show, I think you have a great discretion, and as a judge, what is the most important things that stand out when you are looking for a winning design?

Caprice Willard: Well, I think you kind of said it earlier in how much you said you enjoyed Kara [Laricks]and the fact that you have not seen her looks or her designs before. I was really looking for someone who was going to be fresh and new and can kind of, you know, really crack the code on fashion right now and be something different for the customer. We have so many brands at Macy’s and so many really great designers at Macy’s, but we also like to introduce newness and someone who’s got a totally different design esthetic and Kara absolutely has that and that is what we were looking for and that is why we decided to participate in “Fashion Star”.

LATP: Very exciting… gives me goosebumps!  For years, I mean, sometimes going shopping was a depressing situation, because you’re always looking for that something new. I think this is a new era emerging.

CW: I think Kara is the perfect example of what participating in a show like “Fashion Star” and having a huge retailer like Macy’s do that really shows, you know, how committed we are to find, you know, we both know the customer comes to us; expects for us to educate her on what she should buy and to have hottest newest thing and sometimes that is a look, sometimes that is a, you know, trend and sometimes it is a designer and in this case it is a designer and it is Kara for us right now.

LATP: OK, now Caprice, what are you seeing the designs trending toward this year; what styles do you want to see more of?

CW: I would say that one of the things I am super-excited about right now is really the reemergence of color the top and the bottom. That’s really an exciting new trend for so long we were really into neutrals and neutrals are still important, don’t get me wrong.. you know, black is still the new black. We are always looking for a new black, it’s black still, but color is super-important. Colored bottoms, printed bottoms, textured bottoms. That’s going to be very very important. And then as much as we all like to be casual and kind of comfortable, a little bit more structured jacket is becoming very important and you will see that in the Spring time and that does carry through to Fall. And the feminine blouse like what Kara has in her line, that will continue to be important as we go into the Fall season.

LATP: Well, that makes me very happy to hear because that was my next question: Do you see people starting to dress up more, or staying casual like it’s been for so many years?

CW: Well you know, I think it’s funny because we do always talk about, kinda like, that California casual look, which is always quite frankly going to be part of our dress code in Los Angeles. But a lot of people are really wanting to step it up and figure out a way to still be comfortable but pulled together. I think that Kara’s designs are a perfect example of that. The dress alone is amazingly comfortable to wear, but yet you look so pulled together. So I think we are very committed at Macy’s to finding a way to merge both of those, so people can dress things up, dress them down and feel comfortable throughout the day.

LATP: When can we see these designs in stores?

CW: Actually it is in stores now. So we have it in many stores across the country. I can personally say that we have it in many store in Los Angeles, being a LA girl myself, and we also have it at Macys.com. So you can go to Macys.com/FashionStar, put in your ZIP code and find a store near you.

LATP:  OK everybody, run, don’t walk! Caprice, thank you for entertaining all of us – you do a great job on the show and we can’t wait to see you next season!

CW: Thanks a million!

American Idol was just the beginning. Now Katharine McPhee, three albums and a TV series in its second season, she’s white hot and has the style to pair with it on Glamour’s June issue. Katharine McPhee stars in the hit show Smash which chronicles the making of a Broadway musical about legendary actress Marilyn Monroe.

Here are just a few things Katharine shared with Glamour in the June issue: 

On making your own way…
“After my third semester of school, I came to Los Angeles just in time for pilot season and had 15 to 20 extra pounds on me. I was told, ‘Just lose some weight and you’ll be golden.’ But I knew I had talent. I went on Idol because it was about finding the voice, not about looks. I didn’t know how else to get to that level.”

The truth of the reality of overnight success..
“After Idol, I met with Steven Spielberg, who had me in mind for Smash. It really does take time for projects to develop. I spent five or six years just plugging away, auditioning for so many things. Doing things like Shark Night 3D because I so badly wanted to work! The hardest part of the job is getting the job. That’s the job.”

On how glamorous her job really is..
“Being on set seems so glamorous. Sometimes it is, but at the end of the day, it’s a job. The way I keep my head wrapped around it all is to love the people I work with and know that I’m there to sing a song and say some lines. I’m just doing my job, and the rest of it is glitz.”

Photographed by Nicolas Moore, Katherine McPhee show’s off the season’s sizzling white color for summer in the pages of Glamour.

Katherine McPhee wears a Prabal Gurung dress, Zana Bayne for Prabal Gurung harness and Gianvito Rossi for Altuzarra sandals & an A.L.C dress and Araks bra. The June issue is available now on newsstands and digitally (iPad, Kindle Fire and Barnes & Noble Nook Color) nationwide.

To see her entire feature on glamour.com, click here.

www.glamour.com

The 2012 Los Angeles Film Festival, presented by Film Independent in conjunction with Los Angeles Times will be hosted at L.A. Live in downtown LA from Thursday, June 14th to Sunday, June 24th. The LA Film Fest (LAFF) has now grown up into it’s 18th year of celebrating the best in new American and international cinema. The LAFF is recognized as a world-class event and this will be the 3rd year it will hosted by L.A. Live and located in the heart of LA.

This LAFF will be screening a diverse ticket of nearly 200 feature films, short films, and music videos, representing more than 30 countries from around the world. The event will feature their signature programs like the Filmmaker Retreat, Coffee Talks, Poolside Chats, music events and more. Opening night will feature Woody Allen’s To Rome With Love in addition Ava DuVernay’s Middle of Nowhere, Benh Zeitlin’s Beasts of the Southern Wild, and Lorene Scafaria’s Seeking a Friend for the End of the World were also selected to screen throughout the festival.

To Rome With Love

“There is nothing more satisfying than shining a spotlight on so many unique films from both seasoned and emerging filmmakers. Come experience the wonder of Beasts of the Southern Wild, let Call Me Kuchu break your heart and call you to action, or simply be entertained by Channing Tatum and Matthew McConaughey in Magic Mike,” said Festival Director Stephanie Allain. “These are just a few of the diverse stories that bring us into new worlds or put a fresh twist on familiar ones. ‘Exclusively for Everyone’ isn’t just a tag line. It’s an invitation to experience both the specific and the universal, and hopefully come away entertained and enlightened. Enjoy!”

Magic Mike

Closing night will feature the World Premiere of director Steven Soderbergh’s Magic Mike created by Warner Bros. Pictures and written by Reid Carolin. Stars in the cast include Channing Tatum, Matthew McConaughey, Alex Pettyfer, Matt Bomer, Riley Keough, Cody Horn, Olivia Munn, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez, Joe Manganiello and Gabriel Iglesias. This movie is set in the world of male strippers. The dramatic comedy follows Mike (Tatum) as he takes a young dancer called The Kid (Pettyfer) under his wing and schools him in the fine arts of partying, picking up women and making easy money. Warner Bros. Pictures will release the film nationwide in theaters on Friday, June 29th, 2012.

People Like Us

Another anticipated World Premiere amongst the Summer Showcase screenings is director Alex Kurtzman’s People Like Us created by Dreamworks Pictures and written by Kurtzman, Roberto Orci and Jody Lambert. Starring in this film is Chris Pine, Elizabeth Banks, Olivia Wilde, Philip Baker Hall, Michael Hall D’Addario, Mark Duplass and Michelle Pfeiffer. A story inspired by true events, Sam (Pine), a twenty-something, fast-talking salesman, is tasked with fulfilling his estranged father’s last wishes, which is delivering an inheritance to a sister he never knew he had. Dreamworks Pictures will release the film in theaters on Friday, June 29th, 2012.

Woody Allen on To Rome With Love

“We’ve got a marvelous mix this year that reflects the incredible diversity of world cinema and of Los Angeles itself. I’m excited to have such giants as Woody Allen, Steven Soderbergh and André Téchiné alongside some amazing first-time filmmakers whose names you’ll be hearing a lot in the future. We want to offer festival-goers stories and visions they haven’t seen before and a chance to meet the most creative minds working in movies. It’s going to be a fun and mind-expanding ten days,” said Festival Artistic Director David Ansen.

Dirty Dancing 25th Anniversary

The LAFF will also feature free outdoor programming for fans to crowd around. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the film Dirty Dancing there will be a Dance-A-Long at the California Plaza on June 22nd at 7:00 pm. This production is a cooperation with Dance Camera West and Grand Performances. Attendees may take a free salsa lesson by Contra-Tiempo. There will also be an interactive screening of the film with special guests and a shadow cast consisting of performers from local dance companies to dance on stage below the screening corresponding to key scenes.

The LAFF received 5,283 submissions from filmmakers around the world this year, compared to 5,025 submissions last year. From all these submissions the final selections represent 30 countries from around the world, North American and US premieres, which includes premiere status for films previously announced. There will be 19 premieres that are in the Narrative and Documentary Competition sections.

Make arrangements to attend this 10 day event. There are passes available for sale to Film Independent members and to the general public. The Festival passes give you access to screenings, events, a series of networking receptions and entry to the Filmmaker Lounge. This gives Festival pass holders opportunity to interact with Festival filmmakers and professionals in the film community at the Filmmaker Lounge.

LA Film Festival Information:

Beginning Tuesday, May 29th, general admission tickets to individual films go on sale. Contact the Ticket Office for passes, tickets and event information by calling (866) FILM-FEST, (866) 345-6337, or visit the official website at LAFilmFest.com.

This will be the seventh year the Los Angeles Times will be serving as the LAFF Presenting Media Sponsor. The LA Times will produce the Official Film Guide which is a comprehensive source for all movie information, screenings, locations and related special events. The Film Guide will be on top of their paper on Sunday, June 10th, in Los Angeles and Orange County, and will be made available throughout downtown Los Angeles during the 10 day event.

Films to be Featured at LAFF:

OPENING NIGHT:

To Rome With Love – (DIRECTOR/WRITER Woody Allen PRODUCERS Letty Aronson, Stephen Tenenbaum CAST Woody Allen, Alec Baldwin, Roberto Benigni, Penélope Cruz, Judy Davis, Jesse Eisenberg, Greta Gerwig, Ellen Page) – Written and directed by Woody Allen, To Rome With Love is a story about a number of people in Italy — some American, some Italian, some residents, some visitors — and the romances and adventures and predicaments they get into. North American Premiere

CLOSING NIGHT:

Magic Mike – (DIRECTOR Steven Soderbergh PRODUCERS Reid Carolin, Gregory Jacobs, Channing Tatum, Nick Wechsler WRITER Reid Carolin CAST Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey, Cody Horn, Olivia Munn, Matt Bomer, Riley Keough, Joe Manganiello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez, Gabriel Iglesias) – Set in the world of male strippers, the dramatic joefollows Mike (Tatum) as he takes a young dancer called The Kid (Pettyfer) under his wing and schools him in the fine arts of partying, picking up women, and making easy money. World Premiere

GALA SCREENINGS:

Beasts of the Southern Wild – (DIRECTOR Benh Zeitlin WRITERS Lucy Alibar, Benh Zeitlin PRODUCERS Michael Gottwald, Dan Janvey, Josh Penn CAST Quvenzhané Wallis, Dwight Henry) – This stunningly imaginative, boldly original film follows six-year-old Hushpuppy as she fights to protect her father and their unique way of life in a remote, dreamlike area of the Delta threatened by apocalyptic floods.

Middle of Nowhere – (DIRECTOR/WRITER Ava DuVernay PRODUCERS Howard Barish, Ava DuVernay, Paul Garnes CAST Emayatzy Corinealdi, David Oyelowo, Omari Hardwick, Lorraine Toussaint, Edwina Findley, Sharon Lawrence) – How do you maintain a marriage — and your own identity — when your husband has been sentenced to eight years in prison? Writer/director Ava DuVernay’s elegant and powerful portrait of a strong woman contending with conflicting feelings of love, guilt and desire marks the arrival of a bold new voice in independent cinema.

Seeking a Friend for the End of the World – (DIRECTOR/WRITER Lorene Scafaria PRODUCERS Steve Golin, Joy Gorman, Steven M. Rales, Mark Roybal CAST Steve Carell, Keira Knightley, Connie Britton, Rob Corddry, Gillian Jacobs, Derek Luke, Melanie Lynskey, T.J. Miller, Mark Moses, Patton Oswalt, William Petersen) – Taking audiences on a humorous, moving and intimate journey against an epic backdrop of Earth’s final days, the film is Lorene’s feature directorial debut (she previously adapted Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist). Set in a too-near future where time at once stands still and is slipping away forever, the film explores what people will do and how they will feel when humanity’s end is near. World Premiere

Narrative Competition (10): The Narrative Competition is comprised of films made by talented emerging filmmakers that compete for the Filmmaker Award. The winner is determined by a panel of jurors, and films in this section are also eligible for the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature or Best International Feature.

All Is Well, Pocas Pascoal – Portugal – NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE

Breakfast with Curtis, Laura Colella – WORLD PREMIERE

The Compass is Carried by the Dead Man, Arturo Pons – Mexico – NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE

Crazy and Thief, Cory McAbee – NORTH PREMIERE

Dead Man’s Burden, Jared Moshé – WORLD PREMIERE

Four, Joshua Sanchez – WORLD PREMIERE

A Night Too Young, Olmo Omerzu – Czech Republic – NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE

Pincus, David Fenster – WORLD PREMIERE

Red Flag, Alex Karpovsky – WORLD PREMIERE

Thursday till Sunday, Dominga Sotomayor – Chile – NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE

Documentary Competition (9): The Documentary Competition is comprised of films made by talented emerging filmmakers that compete for the Documentary Award. The winner is determined by a panel of jurors, and films in this section are also eligible for the Audience Award for Best Documentary Feature or Best International Feature.

25 to Life, Mike Brown – WORLD PREMIERE

A Band Called Death, Jeff Howlett, Mark Covino – WORLD PREMIERE

Birth Story: Ina May Gaskin and the Farm Midwives, Sara Lamm, Mary Wigmore – WORLD PREMIERE

Call Me Kuchu, Katherine Fairfax Wright, Malika Zouhali-Worrall – US PREMIERE

Drought, Everado González – Mexico – US PREMIERE

The Iran Job, Till Schauder – USA/Germany/Iran – WORLD PREMIERE

Sun Kissed, Maya Stark, Adi Lavy – WORLD PREMIERE

Vampira and Me, R. H. Greene – WORLD PREMIERE

Words of Witness, Mai Iskander – Egypt/USA – US PREMIERE

International Showcase (15): The International Showcase highlights innovative independent narrative and documentary features from outside of the United States. Films in this section are eligible for Audience Awards for Best International Feature, Best Narrative Feature, or Best Documentary Feature.

Bestiaire, Denis Côté – Canada

Bunohan: Return to Murder, Dain Said – Malaysia (Oscilloscope Pictures)

Canícula, José Álvarez – Mexico

The First Man, Gianni Amelio – France – US PREMIERE

The Last Elvis, Armando Bo – Argentina

Neighboring Sounds, Kleber Mendonça Filho – Brazil (The Cinema Guild)

On the Edge, Leila Kilani – France/Morocco/Germany

P-047, Kongdej Jaturanrasamee – Thailand

Return to Burma, Midi Z. – Taiwan/Myanmar

Sister, Ursula Meier – Switzerland (Adopt Films) – NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE

The Strawberry Tree, Simone Rapisarda Casanova – Canada/Cuba/Italy

Summer Games, Rolando Colla – Switzerland

Teddy Bear, Mads Matthiesen – Denmark (Film Movement)

Unforgivable, André Téchiné – France (Strand Releasing)

Without Gorky, Cosima Spender – UK

Summer Showcase (16): The Summer Showcase section offers an advance look at this summer’s most talked about independent film releases from the festival circuit. Films in this section are eligible for Audience Awards for Best International Feature, Best Narrative Feature, or Best Documentary Feature.

About Face, Timothy Greenfield-Sanders (HBO Films)

Beauty Is Embarrassing, Neil Berkeley

Big Easy Express, Emmett Malloy

Celeste and Jesse Forever, Lee Toland Krieger (Sony Pictures Classics)

Gayby, Jonathan Lisecki (Wolfe Releasing)

Gimme the Loot, Adam Leon (IFC Films)

The House I Live In, Eugene Jarecki

It’s a Disaster, Todd Berger – WORLD PREMIERE

La Camioneta: The Journey of One American School Bus, Mark Kendall – USA/Guatemala

Neil Young Journeys, Jonathan Demme (Sony Pictures Classics)

An Oversimplification of her Beauty, Terence Nance – USA/France

People Like Us, Alex Kurtzman (Dreamworks Pictures) – WORLD PREMIERE

The Queen of Versailles, Lauren Greenfield (Magnolia Pictures)

Reportero, Bernardo Ruiz

Robot and Frank, Jake Schreier (Samuel Goldwyn Films)

Searching for Sugar Man, Malik Bendjelloul (Sony Pictures Classics)

Community Screenings (6): These films will be presented free to the public. New films in this section are eligible for Audience Awards for Best Narrative Feature or Best Documentary Feature.

Dirty Dancing (1987), Emile Ardolino – Grand Performances Screening

E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial (1982), Steven Spielberg – FIGat7th Screening

G-Dog, Freida Mock – WORLD PREMIERE

The Invisible War, Kirby Dick (Cinedigm)

LUV, Sheldon Candis – Project Involve Screening (Indomina)

Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982), Nicholas Meyer – FIGat7th Screening

The Beyond (3): The Beyond offers films that dare to be different. Films in this section are eligible for Audience Awards for Best International Feature or Best Narrative Feature.

The History of Future Folk, J. Anderson Mitchell, Jeremy Kipp Walker – WORLD PREMIERE

Juan of the Dead, Alejandro Brugués – Cuba

Saturday Morning Massacre, Spencer Parsons – WORLD PREMIERE

Retro (3):

Ballads, Blues and Bluegrass (1961), Alan Lomax – WORLD PREMIERE

Banishment (2007), Andrey Zvyagintsev – Russia – LAFCA’s The Film That Got Away

The Breaking Point (1950), Michael Curtiz – Film Foundation Screening

Short Films (48): Shorts are shown before features and as part of four short film programs. With their diverse and complex content, these films shine brilliantly. Most short films, domestic and international, will compete for prizes in Narrative, Documentary, and Animation/Experimental categories. The winner is determined by a panel of jurors. An Audience Award for Best Short Film is also presented.

Shorts Program 1-4

Future Filmmakers Showcase: High School Shorts (31): These two programs of shorts are made by high school students from around the country, featuring work by the next generation of filmmakers.

Programs 1-2

Music Videos (40): The Music Video Showcase consists of two programs. Eclectic Mix is a visual mix tape of this year’s best independent music videos with a few innovative major label artists thrown in for good measure. As a Special Focus, DANIELS and Walter Robot go head to head in an event peppered with music videos, shorts, production secrets, feats of strength, audience challenges and possible mime. Music videos will compete for an Audience Award.

Eclectic Mix 1

Thunderdome: DANIELS vs Walter Robot

For more information visit the official website at LAFilmFest.com.

“Remodeled”, the new hit TV show on the CW Network premiered this season to huge numbers, and The CW will be airing it again this summer. The star of Remodeled, Paul Fisher, is the CEO of The Network, the world’s largest modeling agency, where his ‘network’ encompasses small agencies all over the country. One of those agencies that caught the attention of Paul Fisher and The Network is Hermosa Beach’s own, Blaze Modelz, founded by Stefanie Blase. Stefanie and Blaze Modelz were featured on an episode of “Remodeled”. In this video, LA’s The Place sat down with Stefanie Blase and Paul Fisher, as they discussed their partnership and her plan for Blaze Modelz to become the top modeling agency in the world for swimsuit models.

We also had a chance to speak one on one with Stefanie Blaze, who shared her journey in the world of modeling and owning her own successful agency.

LA’s The Place:   At what age did you become a model? When did you move to LA?

Stefanie Blasé:   I became a model at the age of 15, doing small shows and events in Ohio.

LATP:  What were your long term goals and what are some of the fun things you did as a model?

SB:   I signed with a big agency, Elite Models, and moved to Chicago when I turned 18.

LATP:   At what point did you decide to open your own agency?

SB:   I moved to LA when I was about to turn 21. I knew modeling wouldn’t last forever, and I was very successful as a model, so when I turned 25, I decided I needed to start my own modeling agency.

I wanted to help girls/boys/kids, and teach them what I knew. I didn’t want them to get into the bad scenes/drugs, and many other things that living the fast life, making fast cash can lead too. That’s why I started my agency! I want to see successful kids, healthy kids, and kids that GIVE BACK to our WORLD.

LATP:   Do you model concurrently?

SB:   I am still young, and I still get requests for special shoots, and events, when requested I sometimes will work the events, or I I will replace myself with a similar model, and still attend and chaperone That way everyone’s happy.

LATP:   What is the toughest thing about owning an agency?

SB:   The toughest thing about owing an agency is- the people organization, between the clients, the models and all around everyone. Trying to please everyone and making everyone happy!

LATP:   When did you hear about The Network?

SB:   I heard about the network through a good friend of Pauls, last summer 2011.

LATP:  How is Blaze Modelz different since you became part of The Network?

SB:   Now that we are a part of the Network, our whole agency had changed! We are now based on high fashion and real models (meaning girls 5’9′+) Before we were more just a promotional/talent agency. We have both sides now-working with the network, big big agencies, placing models worldwide, and also using our local talent to cater to the LA Market- as far as promotional modeling, and using models under 5’9”.

LATP:   Has the show Remodeled created a draw for your agency?

SB:   Remodeled was an amazing show to be on! It really changed my life and my agency. Everything that went on in the show, it what we are here doing today in our office. The changes were crucial to success and we are seeing amazing changes each and everyday!

BlazeModelz.com

Blaze Modelz Modeling Agency
200 Pier Ave #303
Hermosa Beach, CA.
1 (310) 372-5500

The Network's CEO Paul Fisher and Stefanie Blaze of Blaze Modelz in Hermosa Beach, CA

Throughout her 30-plus years as a producer, writer and director, Suzanne DeLaurentiis has been involved with over one hundred feature films and has been honored for her work with numerous prestigious awards and her dedication and support for veterans. The first thing you see when you walk into Suzanne’s office, is not her film awards, but her accommodation medal from the Oregon National Guard.  “I make movies, and the men and women of our military make it possible for me to do what I do for a living.  In the grand scheme of things, I think it’s obvious which one of us has the most harder job.”

Recently, Suzanne returned to Oregon to show her continued support for the Oregon National Guard and The Reintegration Team.  Suzanne was presented for the second time with the Oregon Commendation Plaque, a true honor, and one that she doesn’t take lightly. Her mission is to make sure the Vets know how much they are appreciated for protecting our country and make sure they all are able to find jobs upon their return home.

On Saturday March 10, Suzanne went out in less than stellar weather conditions to the tarmac to see Captain Tyler Eikenberry, commander of 7-158 Aviation, off as he left to go on his mission to Afghanistan. Watching him board the Blackhawk Helicopter was a particularly moving event for Ms. DeLaurentiis. “I can never quite comprehend the selflessness of our soldiers. It’s something you never get used to.”

“What most people don’t realize is that our Veteran’s return from horrors that most of us don’t even want to imagine and are then put in a position where they have to put their lives back together.  These are men and women who put their lives on the line every day that they are in the service, and when they come home, they can’t even get a job.”

Suzanne DeLaurentiis and Veterans

When Suzanne first heard about the Oregon National Guard and the Reintegration Team, spearheaded by Master Sgt. Vinnie Jaques, she knew that she had to get involved, and she has been ever since.  She’s hosted numerous charity events for the Organization, adds messages promoting the Military at the end of every film, and is constantly reaching out to her Hollywood colleagues both for donations and to spread the word about the lives our Veterans are coming back to.

LA’s The Place sat down with Suzanne DeLaurentiis and asked her about her dedicated involvement with veterans and how she is making a difference in their lives, even putting them to work in her film projects!

More about Suzanne DeLaurentiis: www.suzannedelaurentiisproductions.com.

"The Voice" Final Four

On May 3, 2012, The Final Four contestants of NBC’s smash singing competition show, “The Voice,” performed live at 10:30 am on Thursday at the Universal CityWalk’s “5 Towers” interactive concert venue.  Fans came by the tram load to this exclusive one-time concert to see their favorite performers sing live. Stay tuned to NBC next Tuesday, May 8th to see who will be voted winner of “The Voice” Season 2. Also, check out our interview with one of the finalist inside…

Last week was the most high-stakes episode of the show yet, when celebrity judges Christina Aguilera, CeeLo Green, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton made their toughest decisions of the season by deciding which member of their team would represent their team in the season finale.  In anticipation of the May 8th final episode, these four finalists sang a special song for their fans at the “5 Towers” stage.

Christina, Ceelo, Adam and Blake invited the fans of their show to come for free and cheer on their favorite finalist at CityWalk’s new interactive outdoor concert venue. Upon arrival, the attendees received complementary T-shirts and posters to commemorate this exclusive event showcasing the leading vocal artists from celebrity musician coaches. The artist lineup that performed at “5 Towers” included Kansas native Chris Mann for Team Christina, Florida native Juliet Simms for Team CeeLo, Connecticut native Tony Lucca for Team Adam, and New York native Jermaine Paul for Team Blake.  Each performer did their best to showcase their talent to the live audience and the world watched online streaming on Facebook, NBC.com and at the NBC Experience Store in New York. It will be exciting to see who will be named “The Voice” in Season 2 of this hit show and receive the grand prize recording contract.

Ceelo was the first to christen the “5 Towers” stage in July 2011. The “5 Towers” literally stands-out for the crowd and is the first-of-its kind outdoor concert venue with fan immersive features and state-of-the-art technology.  The Music Spotlight Series held this spring at “5 Towers” featured Billboard chart-topping talent Carly Rae Jepsen, as well as an exciting and diverse lineup of local homegrown favorites including Cherri Bomb, Midnight Red, The Thomas Nicholas Band, and many more.

“We are so excited to have the finalists from ‘The Voice’ here at the 5 Towers on CityWalk,” said Pat Donahue, Director of CityWalk Entertainment.  “While we’ve hosted established recording artists like Flo Rida, Good Charlotte and Justin Bieber, we also have a strong commitment to supporting emerging artists.  It’s a great privilege to provide up-and-coming talent with an outstanding, state of the art venue to do what they love to do – which is to play great music and entertain the masses!”

Jermaine Paul sat down to talk with LA’s The Place and relax after performing at CityWalk’s “5 Towers” stage.

LATP:         “What did you try to do in your performance today to outshine your competition?”
Jermaine:     “Today, like just right now.”  “I don’t know what I did to outshine anybody.  I just try to do the best Jermaine Paul impression I can possibly do.” Then after a chuckle, he adds. “I’m just trying to be the best me every time I hit the stage. I’m not trying to out do or compete, I mean it’s all art and artistry.  Everybody here has a gift and a talent.  It all deserves to shine. The way you see it, is the way you see it.”

LATP:         “Do you feel confident that you nailed your performance today?”
Jermaine:     “You know it’s so early singing that high @$$ song.  That song is so high, I don’t know what Bon Jovi was thinking when he wrote that song and then it has modulation on top of it.  It’s ridicules!  I just gave my heart and left it out there.  It was real relaxed, no pressure.  I tried to interact with the crowd as much as possible and just had a good time with it.”

LATP:        “You discussed trying that challenge of hitting those high notes, is there anything in particular that the judges and the audience should look for in your performance for the final?”
Jermaine:    “Coming up, I defiantly want to take the inspirational route.  I want to inspire the world.  I want to inspire every person out there that has a dream.  To help every person out there that has been trying to do something with themselves to find their way there.  I just found my way here and it feels amazing to be here!  I just want to make the best of the opportunity and inspire someone in the process.”

LATP:        “You are defiantly inspiring people all over the world.  Do you feel that you are living your dream now and is there more of that dream to come?”
Jermaine:    “You know, it seems like with this competition you go in and your thinking about the beginnings and the end.  You don’t think about all the little obstacles and victories in between.  This is one victory and everyday you try to create a new one hoping to do better things and be victorious.”

LATP:        “Is there anything you did in particular to help you prepare for today’s performance and for the final?’
Jermaine:   “I pray.  I try to keep it defiantly spiritually grounded and move forward every time from one to the next.  That’s all I can say, I can’t take credit for anything.”

"The Voice" Last 8 at Transformers: The Ride-3D

Prior to the final four contestants being announced last week the eight semi-finalists were treated to a behind-the-scenes sneak peek of Universal Studios Hollywood’s epic, new immersion thrill ride, “Transformers: The Ride-3D”. This attraction opens officially on May 25, 2012. More information on Universal CityWalk’s upcoming events is available at www.CityWalkHollywood.com.  Artist announcements and “5 Towers” concert venue events can also be found on Twitter @CityWalkLA and Facebook-Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

"The Voice" Last 8 at Transformers: The Ride-3D

“The Voice” is a vocal competition show featuring celebrity musician coaches Christina Aguilera, CeeLo Green, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton. Carson Daly hosts and serves as producer, and Christina Milian serves as social media correspondent. The show’s innovative format features three stages of competition; the first begins with the blind audition, then the competition enters into a battle phase, and finally, the live performance shows. Each vocal coach will choose one star artist to compete against the other teams’ finalists to be named “The Voice” – the winner will receive the grand prize of a recording contract.

To view the official website for NBC’s “The Voice” click HERE.

Looking even more stunning than ever before, Scarlett Johansson is featured on the cover of this May’s issue of VOGUE, appearing on newsstands April 24th.  The interview by VOGUE writer Jason Gay gets real as Scarlett explains how she has endured through  recent painful experiences in her personal life and the excitement from concurring the most difficult roles she can find.

That sweet young woman who stole America’s heart in Lost in Translation, is now jumping into action to fight with The Avengers to save the world.  Scarlett Johansson will be reprising her Iron Man 2 role as Natasha Romanoff, a.k.a. Black Widow in the highly anticipated May 4th release of The Avengers.

Scarlett’s unique spirit seems to always find the positive side of life and turns  painful or difficult situations into a pleasure.  As Chris Evans, costar on The Avengers, states, “I always say that if you were on a road trip, you’d definitely want Scarlett in your car.  She’s kind of always laughing, even when she’s in a bad mood.”

Johansson is just as courageous and unstoppable in real life as her superhero character on screen.  From a divorce with Ryan Reynolds last Summer 2011 to later then being hacked for personal intimate photos that went viral on the Internet, Scarlett has not only continued persevering but is successfully aspiring to challenge new and daring roles.

Scarlett says that she was drawn by her character’s murkiness.  “Female superheroes normally are superlame.” Natasha/Black Widow, “is kind of gray.  I like that about her.”

Since Scarlett’s breakout success in Lost in Translation and Girl with a Pearl Earring a decade ago she has been actively working with some of the best in the business.  For example, when Woody Allen decided to cast Johansson for Match Point, after Kate Winslet suddenly dropped out of the film, because, “Someone suggested Scarlett, and she was available,” Allen says. “I’ve been crazy about her ever since.”

So many fans and critics are singing praises about Johansson and her range of talent.  From blockbusters to indies and collaborating with singer-songwriter Pete Yorn to winning a Tony Award for her performance in Arthur Miller’s A View from the Bridge.  “I couldn’t get over how brave she was,” says Liev Schreiber, a stage veteran.  “Coming into that experience would be pretty intimidating for just anybody and usually cripples actors.  I was blown away by how fearless she seemed.”

Look forward to seeing more of this beauty with brains.  Scarlett will act as an alien in Under the Skin directed by Jonathan Glazer and she will play Janet Leigh in a film about the making of Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho.  Johansson is also going to direct an adapted screenplay based on Truman Capote’s debut novel, Summer Crossing.

As busy as Scarlett is, nothing stops her desire for change.  She supported Barack Obama back in 2008 and is still rallying voters for a 2012 reelection.  Johansson is also supporting Manhattan borough president Scott Stringer for the New York mayoral campaign.

Lucky for Scarlett to find a new romance and start dating again.  Recently, she has been seen with New York-based advertising creative director Nate Naylor enjoying normalcy and sending time with friends.  Scarlett still remembers herself as the kid from Greenwich Village.

Finally, Scarlett reflexes at life now saying, “Yeah, everything’s been really great now.”  Johansson continues saying, “It’s been a good time.  I’ve had peace. Relative peace.  I just want to work on things that are really hard, and when I’m not working on things that are really hard, I want to hang out with people I like to be with, and that’s it.”

Check and see this stunning starlet in elegant photography by Mario Testino and read the entire article by Jason Gay from the May VOGUE article, “Scarlett Johansson: Back in Stride”, please click HERE.

You can also learn even more about Scarlett Johansson in Voguepedia, please click HERE.

Vogue.com

http://www.vogue.com/voguepedia/Scarlett_Johansson

Summertime – Wine, Food and Song.
Set your agenda for The 6th Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival, which is back, bigger than ever!  A lavish, 14-day wine and food festival will begin on the warm beaches of Malibu on June 9, 2012, and will take attendants to the scenic hills of Calabasas where they will experience wineries from around the world, local restaurants, breweries, live cooking demonstrations by master chefs and, music! (See list of participants below)

The Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival combines two events: The Calabasas Food & Wine Festival and Malibu Food & Wine Festival. This event has been sold out 5 years in a row, so grab your tickets now! Click here to purchase tickets…

Celebrity Chef Demonstations
World-renowned Food Network Chef Alejandra Schrader, Adrian Giese of Mastro’s Steakhouse, Marcel Vigneron of Food Network, Kimmy Tang of Beverly Hills 9021PHO will be participating in live cooking demonstrations.

The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Music!
Live entertainment will include the 17-piece Fabulous Esquires big band, USO-style performances by the soulful Satin Dollz and other skilled jazz bands.

A Charitable Cause
Produced by Barcelona Enterprises, the festival will raise funds for the Children’s Tumor Foundation, hoping to remind attendants that the joy and life found in a great dish and good drink can make a difference.

So, set your agenda for the following fun schedule!

Locations for the 14-day festival:

June 9  Malibu Beer Festival- Malibu Pier

June 16  Bubbly, Brews, Buns – Westlake Village

June 20 Calabasas Jazz Festival -  24181 Calabasas Road  Calabasas, CA 91302

June 23 Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival -  24181 Calabasas Road  Calabasas, CA 91302

June 24  Calabasas Malibu Wine & Food Festival – 24181 Calabasas Road  Calabasas, CA 91302

For more information visit  www.malibufoodandwinefestival.com & www.calabasaswineandfoodfestival.com

Wineries, Breweries, Spirits, Restaurants and Vendors!

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery
Pacific Coast Vineyards
Calabasas Vineyards
Courtage Champagne
Saintsbury
Cielo Malibu Estate Wineyards
Ahnfeldt Wines
Hidden Oak Winery
Moreno BHLV
Ampelos Cellars
Chocolate Shop Red Wine
Ritual Wine
Fresita USA
Casa Torelli Imports
Giessinger Winery
Malibu Rocky Oaks
The Naked Grape
Bridle Trail Wines – CabIn
Calstar Cellars
Urraca Winery
Katarina Wines
Sunland Vintage – Giovinazzo Wines
Millesime Cellars
Bleu Saphir
Wades Wines

Breweries
Beverly Hills Beer
Eel River Brewing Company
SoCal Beer Company
Stella Artois
Leffe
Hoegaarden
Euro Brew (Yanjing Beer- China, Mortiz – Barcelona, Hobgoblin Beer – UK, Holy Grail Ale – UK, St. Sylvester 3Monts , Xingu Black Beer – Brazil)

Spirits
Patron Tequila
Boutique Sake
Ventura Limoncello
RND Vodka
Veev
PAMA / Hpnotiq/Harmonie Liqueur
Medina Brand Spirits
VnC Cocktails

Restaurants/Food
Mastro’s Steakhouse
Fresh Brothers Pizza
9021PHO
The Hummus Bar
Randy’s Brownies & Desserts
Kind Bar
Chef Alejandra Schrader
Pacific Cheesecake Company
Kira’s Kiss Desserts
Z Confections
Jinky’s Cafe
Got Kosher? (Sun)
Gladstone’s by SBE
Gamela Brazilian Grill
Sweet Arleen’s
Maria’s Italian Kitchen (Sat)
Bolani
Academia Barilla
Nothing Bundt Cakes Thousand Oaks
Frankie’s Biscotti
Stone Oven
NEW YORK PIZZA – Tony L.
GG’s Gourmet Toffee
OM Snacks
Normandie Bakery
La Cuisine with Chef Josette
Rustico
SaraJ Pastries
Koutoubia Restaurant & Bar
Cabot

Vendors
EcoWrist West
Cutco
Danmer Custom Shutters
Gourmet Blends

The Q&A will be broadcast live from The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Austin, Texas. This event is INVITE ONLY and closed to the public, but fans can tune-in online at AintItCool.com.

“Get The Gringo”

“Get The Gringo” stars Mel Gibson as Driver, an American criminal who violently crashes his car into the border wall as he tries to outrun the U.S. Border Patrol. Driver survives the crash only to land inside a hard-core Mexican prison where he enters the strange and dangerous world of “El Pueblito.” Driver finds unlikely guidance from a 10-year-old kid who shows him the ropes.

Film Will Debut Exclusively on DIRECTV Beginning May 1st.

#GetTheGringo

NowLive
NowLive is a leading entertainment production and streaming company for live events. Comprised of a team of Hollywood studio and network digital alums, NowLive provides clients an interactive platform that allows fans an exclusive all-access pass to a wide range of live events such as red carpet premieres, awards shows, cast chats, concerts and original productions. In just over a year, NowLive has produced and livestreamed the premieres of Hollywood’s biggest events including The Hunger Games, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 and Fast Five premieres as well as concert events for Project X and Avril Lavigne. Additionally, NowLive has produced and streamed live chats with Steven Spielberg, Johnny Depp and the cast of the Academy Award winning Best Picture, The Artist as well as live shows for Macy’s Fashion’s Night out, The Oscar Red Carpet and the Independent Spirit Awards.

For more information on NowLive and upcoming events, visit: www.nowlive.com

This event is brought to you by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, Icon Productions,
Ain’t It Cool News and NowLive.

In order to prepare for the parts, Roxy conducted her own research contacting friends and acquaintances to help her better understand the complexity of each role. Contrary to popular belief, playing these roles did not always come so easily for Roxy.

Southland's Regina King, Roxy Brusso, and Tom Everett Scott

Roxy’s career path was rather a rocky road before fate took charge. Born in Peru, and later moving to North Hollywood at the age of 4, Roxy grew up searching for herself. While Roxy’s academic endeavors proved dissatisfying, she remained open to opportunity on her quest to find her true passion.

While she was attending San Diego State University, Roxy’s father experienced a severe car accident, which led her to move home to Los Angeles to care for him and attend community college. Some time after her father’s incident, Roxy decided it was necessary to regroup; she halted her studies at a local college and began waiting tables and caring for her father.

Upon starting her waitressing job in Hollywood, Roxy was surrounded by aspiring actors who discussed their exciting audition experiences. It wasn’t until she met one waitress that Roxy decided to venture into the world of show business. A shy, but ever-curious young adult, Roxy took a leap of faith and linked up with a talent agent referred to her by her coworker. From there, she began taking acting classes and found that the once unidentifiable void had finally been replaced.

Roxy landed her first role in an ampm minimart advertisement which led to a theatrical role in Melrose Place. With unrelenting dedication, Roxy began guest starring on shows like Beverly Hills 90210. Her unique, raspy voice was perfect for many of the authoritative roles, and Roxy found she was casted for these characters more and more often.

Roxy’s strong, confident voice brought equally authoritative roles, regardless of her contrasting mild demeanor. As a child, Roxy was fairly sheltered, and her life experiences limited, which she felt hindered her confidence. In her everyday life, Roxy struggled to show anger or rage, but acting soon brought her out of her shell, and the self-assured woman she portrayed on screen began to transcend her personality as she grew into her voice.

Roxy initially found inspiration in such film actors as Meryl Streep.  Although for now, the small screen is her home, she is keeping all doors open to whatever opportunities come her way. Despite her late discovery of passion, Roxy has grown to embrace every aspect of her acting career while developing her identity along the way. She now embodies an additional character—the talented, poised and successful Roxy Brusso.

Click here to view the embedded video.

The evening’s highlights of the Second Annual Night of a Billion Reality Stars:

Newly-engaged couple Ben Flajnik and Courtney Robertson enjoying some alone time while sipping specialty Freak-A-Zoid SVEDKA cocktails in the “Smush Room,” equipped with life-size cutouts of Jersey Shore cast members JWOWW and Vinny Guadagnino.

Real Housewife Teresa Giudice making her way through the crowd to blow kisses at a standee of hubby Joe Giudice.

Ben Flajnik, Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Mauricio Umansky smirking in approval while watching the very sexy animated SVEDKA_Grl’s in the premiere of her new commercial.

Former Bachelorette Ashley Hebert swapping stories with counterpart, Ali Fedotowsky, before laying a smooch on a lifesize cutout of fiance, JP Rosenbaum.

Courtney Robertson and Ali Fedotowsky

Peggy Tanous, Brandi Glanville and Kyle Richards toasting to their absent friend and recent castaway, Camille Grammar.

Maksim Chmerkovskiy

Next time your watching your favorite reality TV show, you can celebrate like the stars did with this SVEDKA Vodka cocktail featured at the party:

Freak-A-Zoid

2 parts SVEDKA Vodka
1 part Fresh Lime Juice
1 tsp Simple Syrup
Splash Lemon Juice

SVEDKA is a Gold Medal winner at the 2008 Beverage Tasting Institute, San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Monde Selection in Brussels, Belgium, and the 2002 International Wine & Spirit Competition. Wine enthusiast vodka ratings score it above Ketel One, Absolut and Skyy.

It is probably best known in the United States for the advertising campaign created by the New York-based agency Amalgamated, introduced in late 2005, with a futuristic “spokesbot” designed by Stan Winston. The ads make the claim that in the year 2033 Svedka will be the most popular vodka in the world. In 2012, Svedka is to sponsor robotics contests (“sexiest robotics” competition) at several leading U.S. engineering universities (CMU, Cal Tech, MIT, Stanford).

Mix all ingredients in a pint glass filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a martini glass.

**Photo Credit: Michael Williams/ StarTraksPhoto.com

GBK produced a celebratory  birthday-theme extravaganza in honor of the 2012 Kids Choice Awards in support of cancer survivors and the American Cancer Society, featuring birthday cake, presents from the lounge’s luxury sponsors, activities and more.

GBK, the luxury lifestyle gift lounge and special events company, along with BOP & Tiger Beat, the industry’s leading teen entertainment magazines, honored the 2012 Kids’ Choice Awards Nominees and Presenters at their annual Gift Lounge. The gifting lounge on March 29th and 30th was at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Ashley Argota, Cassie Scerbo

GBK, who is the recipient of multiple BizBash’s Award for “Best Gift Bag,” offered its exclusive list of invited celebrities, VIPs, and media an opportunity to enjoy an exciting environment with gifts, refreshments and a charitable focus. Known for their creative, cause-driven events, this year’s GBK, BOP & Tiger Beat Lounge birthday bash supported the American Cancer Society and cancer survivors everywhere.

Master cake creator, Bread Basket Cake Company, prepared special birthday cupcake invitations for the celebrity and honored guests, and has teamed up with GBK to design a 14 foot Birthday Cake- edible – press wall! This wall was an unforgettable centerpiece to the event and a fun photo opportunity for all.

As always, giving charities an opportunity to share their cause and draw attention to the work they are doing is a major focus with GBK Gift Lounge’s. The GBK, BOP & Tiger Beat Gift Lounge will also support the following charities:

The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots organization of more than three million volunteers passionately saving lives and fighting to end the suffering from cancer. They save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. To learn more about The American Cancer Society at Cancer.org or call (800) 227-2345.

Vanessa Lengies

Dream Center helps rescue people from homelessness, hunger, poverty and substance abuse problems. Founded in 1994, and now this volunteer driven organization is caring for the needs of over 40,000 people each month across LA. The Dream Center is fighting against human trafficking by opening the nation’s largest shelter for victims of human trafficking. Providing a dream solution to a nightmare situation is the goal. Learn more about Dream Center at DreamCenter.org.

Peyton List, Vanessa L

Model Citizen Fund, LLC is a charitable organization that cares for the homeless by give out backpacks stuffed with over 150 emergency supply items. Super Models are Super Heros at this nonprofit organization. Lovely ladies using their fame and fortune to helping the homeless, now thats putting sexy into giving back, backpacks that is. Learn more about Model Citizen Fund at ModelCitizenFund.com

An array of fun products and trendy gifts filled the lounge and contributed to the birthday fun.

MGA Entertainment, known for their award-winning brands such as Little Tikes, Lalaloopsy, Bratz, and Moxie Girls were on site gifting their Bratz Dolls – one packed doll of choice and an invitation to receive the new Bratz True Hope dolls when they arrive in stores in June. The new BratZ True Hope dolls features a proud bald-headed fashion to support cancer treatment survivors because courage is always in style. These fashion dolls, invented by Carter Bryant in 2001, have grown in popularity through the years. MGA Entertainment has successfully brought the BratZ dolls to movie theaters, T.V. series, music albums and video games entertaining kids over a decade.

imPRESS Press-On Manicure by Broadway Nails, the revolutionary way to apply polish. Broadway Nails is the leading value brand for all consumer artificial nail and nail accessory needs, consistently offering beginner to intermediate nail consumers latest styles and trends for a complete nail transformation. Broadway Nails delivers on products that are quick, easy, and innovative at the right price and value.

RevitaLash Advanced, was on site gifting their eyelash conditioner that lengthens and thickens eyelashes, Hair by RevitaLash and RevitaLash Mascara and Perfect Primer. This organization was well recognized last October during the Breast Cancer Awareness month. Athena Cosmetics, Inc. (owner to RevitaLash) is proud and honored to play a part in the fight against Breast Cancer. Contributions in time, energy, education and financial resources, Athena Cosmetics, Inc. will strive to help find the ultimate cure for this epidemic disease.

Toy State, an innovator and industry leader in the manufacture of highly-stylized lights and sound toy vehicles, gifted DUB DJz custom vehicles with dual mixing decks. The Toystate Dub Garage D-Jayz: Supercar is a cool DUB customized supercar with dual mixing decks that play realistic DJ scratch sounds and hip hop music lights, sounds, music and vocal phrases give each vehicle its own style.

Zachary Gordon with Toy State

Coby Electronics, gifted their spunky new Attitudz earphones which match consumers’ ever-changing style – and attitudes – with eight fun colors and designs that reflect a range of personalities. Express your individuality and style with the CVE53 Attitudz line. Each color represents whichever mood you choose to indulge: Diva(Red), Stormy(Black), Envy(Green), Charming(Orange), Moody(Blue), Flirty(Pink), Mysterious(Purple), or Daring(Silver). Accompanying the stylish and edgy design, the Attitudz earphones possess high performance dynamic drivers that deliver pure digital audio with deep bass for all your music needs.

My Pillow Inc., which manufactures and markets one of the few patented pillows exclusively made in the USA, providing the most comfortable, adjustable and healthiest pillows ever. Many kids will get a better night sleep thanks for My Pillow. www.MyPillow.com

Aubrey O'Day, Dana Wilkey

Welch’s Fruit Snacks, tasted their delicious Welch’s Fruit Snacks, Juicefulls™ Juice-filled Fruit Snacks, Sun Maid Milk Chocolate Raisins, My M&M’S Brand Chocolate Candies and more. Welch’s is sweet on their consumers, so they dream up fantastic offers to delight fans. Their secret? They appeal to the child in everyone. After all, everyone loves the kind of candy that makes you smile and tantalizes your taste buds.

Spin Master, a multi-category children’s entertainment company, was on site gifting their Appfinity AppBlaster! Using dual triggers, trigger-tap technology and augmented reality applications, the AppBlaster turns any environment into a virtual gaming experience and connects securely with your iPhone/iPod Touch. Spin Master has been entertaining kids with their wide rage of products since 1994. Some of these playful products include Air Hogs, Tech Deck, Tron Legacy figures, NASCAR replica cars, and more.

Ematic, a superior technology company featuring groundbreaking innovations in portable media, provided Tablet PCs and MP3 Video Players. Ematic has been providing superior technology at a fraction of the cost since 1985. They produce over 100 different consumer electronics products, ranging from high-end headphones to MP3 video players, all competitively priced, all made to stand the rigors of everyday use.

Sweet Dream Girlz, providing their naturally made face, body and hair products made especially for girls. Sweet Dream Girlz was founded by two young, fabulous sisters, Brea and Halle out of their need for skin and fragrance sensitive beauty products. The product line includes Body Wash Smoothie, Body Frosting Moisturizer, Body Spritzer and more. Sweet Dream Girlz products are all natural with wholesome ingredients such as shea butter and natural oils. Except for the use of fragrance oil. Girls will go crazy over the scent of chocolate chip cookies, pink sugar and iced lemon cookie.

American Apparel, gave out their American-made clothing. Based in downtown Los Angeles, California. American Apparel currently employs approximately 10,000 people globally (about 5,000 in LA), and operate more than 285 retail stores in 20 countries. Within their

Vanessa Lengies

business model, knitting, dyeing, cutting, sewing, photography, marketing, distribution and design all happen in the company’s facilities in Los Angeles. The company operates the largest garment factory in the United States, at a time when most apparel production has moved offshore. With our recently opened stores in China, we are now selling Made in USA clothing in the largest consumer market in the world.

MacSlaps, slapped artistic decals on iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. MacSlaps is the original supplier of designer skins for your MacBook, iPad, and iPhone devices. MacSlaps make it simple to personalize your Apple device and express your individuality. MacSlaps are made from high quality, self-adhering vinyl that is easy to apply. When you’re ready to switch things up, simply peel off your old MacSlaps sticker and replace it with a new one.

RockaBella Jewels, gave their Hawaii inspired jewelry. Founded in 2003 Rockabella Jewels by designer Kristel Bandisch has been making each piece by hand when you order it. Every shell, tahitian pearl, gemstone etc. is one of a kind, so naturally no two same styles of jewelry will be exactly the same as your friends piece. We love that our customers are excited to know their bracelet was made just for them.

Mama Earth Rocks Publishing, has brought you Pinky the Star- motivational illustrated children’s book, Sweet Potato Mama Cookbook and Angels for Everyday Living. Happy Sunshine Publishing today introduces Pinky the Star for iOS, their new motivational eBook. Written and illustrated to include girls from all cultural backgrounds, the eBook follows Pinky in her quest to become a Star. With the help of her family and new Star friends she meets during her journey, she seeks answers to questions of her self-worth and identity. Her journey ends with a new understanding, appreciation of and love for herself.

Moshi Monsters, provided gift packs including Bobble Bots, Moshi Monsters from Innovation First International, 6” Moshi plush from Spin Master and Moshi trading cards from Topps. The world of Moshi Monsters has been created by Mind Candy, a company that loves developing games and new forms of interactive entertainment. The intention when creating Moshi Monsters was to produce a ground breaking new entertainment experience that would be fun, safe and educational for kids of all ages.

The stars of the 2012 Kids’ Choice Awards came out to support the American Cancer Society and celebrate the Awards Show included: Jennifer Stone “Nominee”, Jake Short “Winner for Favorite TV Actor”, Willow Shields “The Hunger Games”, Alex Heartman “Nominee”, Aubrey O’Day “Celebrity Apprentice”, Leon Thomas III “Victorius”, Kalia Prescott “The Hunger Games”, Nolan Gould “ABC’s Modern Family”, Amandla Stenberg “The Hunger Games”, Cody Simpson “Recording Artist” and many More.

GBK has been an extravagant gifting and special events company since 2000. Gavin B. Keilly is the founder and CEO and is well recognized for specializing in entertainment marketing integration. With five entities thriving; GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Special Events, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations the GBK name is widely known in the entertainment industry. GBK supplies the high-life to the gifting lounge environment and offers its clients a full range of marketing services. Learn more about Gavin B. Keilly (CEO), Carla Domen (VP) or GBK at GBKproductions.com

Playboy Magazine and Hugh Hefner hosted celebration in classic Hollywood fashion at the famed Playboy Mansion Tuesday night in Los Angeles, in honor of their annual “Sex & Music” issue, featuring Bruno Mars, the 10th man to grace the cover of Playboy.

Celebs including Britney Spears, Cameron Diaz and Jeremy Piven were out in force and danced and partied while Bruno and his Hooligans performed a mash-up of hits, covering everything from Michael Jackson’s “Dirty Diana,” to Police’s “Roxanne,” and even Ginuwine’s “My Pony.”

Bruno Mars is the 10th man ever to grace the cover of Playboy for their Sex and Music annual issue.

Notable Attendees Included: Britney Spears, Cameron Diaz, Chris Martin, Estelle, Raquel Pomplun – April Playmate, David Arquette, Mark Salling, Jeremy Piven, Johnny Knoxville, Brad Goreski, Laz Alonso, Naturi Naughton, Luke James, Josh Peck

PLAYBOY’S Annual “Sex & Music” issue starting Bruno Mars is on newsstands now.

Photo Credit: Cameron Duddy

Dame Julie Andrews was honored this past week with the 25th Annual Gypsy Award. An extraordinary list of previously-honored Professional Dancer Society tributees gathered to pay homage beginning in the morning at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.  Later that evening at UCLA’s Royce Hall, Grey’s Anatomy cast members joined in song for Grey’s Anatomy: The Songs Beneath The Show, and together raised record-breaking funds for the arts.

In addition to the stunning production numbers by dancers from the Joe Tremaine and Madilyn Clark Dance Studios, were  the remarkable video presentations by Lee Hale and industry elite such as Jane Withers, Jane Kean, Mary Ann Mobley, Barbara Van Orden, Margaret O’Brien, Dick Van Dyke, Carol Burnett, Carl Reiner, Florence Henderson, Rita Moreno, Bob Mackie, Marge Champion, Ann-Margaret, Joni Berry (Chairman) and PDS President, Mitzi Gaynor.

Dame Andrews’ eloquent speech regarding the Arts and their contributions to children, the public and the nation was well received by the patrons. This years sell-out raised a record-breaking amount of funds. The Professional Dancers Society, www.ProfessionalDancersSociety.org  is an affiliate of The Actors’ Fund For Everyone in Entertainment. Proceeds take care of dancers in need.

Grey's Anatomy cast in performance.

Later that evening, the Royce Hall theatre at UCLA, played host to over 1,300 fans of the ABC hit series Grey’s Anatomy, gathered as cast members joined in song for Grey’s Anatomy: The Songs Beneath The Show. Among those in attendance to support the cause were George Chakiris, Kate Linder, Ilene Graff, Ben Lazerone, Holland Taylor, Tony Hoover, Barbara Van Orden, Rip Taylor, and Sharon Lawrence, among others. It was a thunderously appreciative audience that came to their feet numerous times during the evening that starred Jessica Capshaw, Justin Chambers, Eric Dane, Sarah Drew, Kevin McKidd, Ingrid Michaelson, Sandra Oh, Jim Pickens, Jr., Sara Ramirez, Kim Raver and Chandra Wilson.

Grey's anatomy cast members - Justin Chambers, Chandra Wilson, James Pickens, Jr, Sara Ramirez and Kevin McKidd

The program produced by Michael Medico, Chris Van Dusen, Shonda Rhimes, Meg Thomas and written by Bill Harper, Mark Wilding and Jenna Bans featured the songs “Chasing Cars,” (performed by Sara Ramirez, Kevin McKidd, Chandra Wilson), “How We Operate” (McKidd), “There’s a Girl” (Sarah Drew), “Wait,” (Wilson, Drew), “Running on Sunshine” (James Pickens Jr., Justin Chambers, McKidd, Ramirez, Kim Raver, Jessica Capshaw, Drew, Wilson), “Young Folks” (Chambers and his three daughters, Eva, Mya and Kayla), “Everywhere I Go” (Wilson), “Keep Breathing” (performed by Ingrid Michaelson), “Looking at the World From a Bottom of a Well” (McKidd), “The Story,” (Ramirez) and “How to Save a Life” (Cast).

Grey's Anatomy cast Q and A

Each of the cast members shared their own plea to support the Actors Fund, with reference to the effects the Arts have on the entire community. Whether you are physically involved in the creative process or a fan of the results – whether you enjoy stage productions, going to a film, listening to music or staying at home and watching a favorite TV program, it is important … nay imperative … that you support the Arts in any way you can.

Joe Benincasa (AF Executive Dir), Kevin McKidd and Ilyanne Morden Kichaven.

The Actors Fund is a national human services organization that helps everyone-performers and those behind the scenes-who works in performing arts and entertainment, helping more than 12,800 people directly each year, and hundreds of thousands online. Serving professionals in film, theatre, television, music, opera, radio and dance, The Fund’s programs include social services and emergency assistance, health care and insurance, housing, and employment and training services.

With offices in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, The Actors Fund has-for 130 years-been a safety net for those in need, crisis or transition. For more information, please visit www.actorsfund.org.
PDS photo credit: Nathan Sternfel

Paul Fisher created The Network 2 ½  years ago, with two altruistic goals:

To bring together hundreds of small agencies around the world and using his expertise to manage them and make them a force to be reckoned with. Up until now, the local agencies find the stars and then the NYC agencies snap them up, and the local agencies lose out completely. With The Network, Fisher aims to fix this and in the process create the largest agency in the world.

His other goal is to empower models to take control of their careers and lead healthier lives.

On “Remodeled”, cameras follow him during the course of his business as he visits struggling Network companies across the U.S. and turns them around and makes them part of a bigger, more powerful entity.

On “Remodeled” we also see Fisher discovering new talent, and lauching their careers as he lands them huge modeling jobs, all the while setting them on the right path and educating them so they have a happy, healthy career as a model and learn to give back to the world.

Most recently “Remodeled” visited South Bay’s own Blaze Modelz modeling agency as an episode on the show, as Paul Fisher took it on as his only LA agency in The Network. Watch for our upcoming article and interview featuring Stephanie Blasé.

Paul Fisher is also leading the charge, and getting fashion writers, celebrities, and public health advocates worldwide, to speak out against the destructive ideal of models extremely thin bodies that has dominated the beauty industry for decades. Fisher notes that this is giving young girls the wrong example that they are not the “ideal”, and therefore are becoming anorexic and adapting unhealthy eating habits and more.

The Network promotes this blossoming new ideal of using “the average-size woman” as models. Until now, there has been no collective, industry-wide effort to transform how the modeling business identifies and promotes top talent. There has been no one vehicle for unifying the major players so that their concerns – and more importantly, their solutions – can be heard and implemented, that is, until Paul Fisher stepped up.

Star of "Remodeled" Paul Fisher

Paul Fisher

Paul Fisher has created more stars than any other agent in the history of the modeling industry.  Paul started an agency in his studio apartment with a $10,000 investment from his grandfather and built one of the most powerful modeling agencies in the world who’s client list was a who’s-who in the fashion industry.  Paul has represented such clients as Naomi Campbell, Carole Alt, Carre Otis, Stephanie Seymour, Kimora Lee Simmons, Brooke Burke, Nicky Hilton, Eva Horizigova and hundreds of other famous names. Over the past quarter-century, Fisher’s world-renowned clients have graced thousands of magazine covers, headlined shows for every major fashion house in the world, been nominated for an Academy Award and currently serve as the First Lady of a European country.

For more info and video clips on the CW’s “Remodeled” please visit www.cwtv.com/shows/remodeled.

The Network” website offers many helpful tools, resources and information. Go to www.TheNetworkTalent.com for more information.

Watch our video interview with both Paul Fisher and Stefanie Blase here…

Click here to view the embedded video.

Sundays are meant for refocusing, resting and reviving. Every Sunday, “Super Soul Sunday” on OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network, provides three hours of nourishment for the mind, body and spirit. Oprah Winfrey interviews renowned spiritual innovators and inspirational authors. Tune-in to hear more from Oprah and Gary Zukav this Sunday, March 11th, 2012 on OWN’s ‘Super Soul Sunday’ at 11 a.m. ET/PT. Watch this sneak peak of Gary Zulav and Oprah discussing the power of intention…

Sneak Preview: Finding Your Authentic Power

In an all-new interview, Oprah sits down with best-selling Seat of the Soul author Gary Zukav, and he reveals the principle he taught Oprah that guides her life. Plus, music unites us all in the groundbreaking British TV series What About Me?

The power of intention plays a vital role in Oprah’s everyday life; in fact, it cured her disease to be a people pleaser. In an all-new heart-to-heart interview, Gary talks with Oprah about owning intentions and how what you put out into the world directly affects what your outcome is. Also learn what Oprah’s most important “A-HA!” lesson was by utilizing the power of intention.

Following the Gary Zulav interview, “Super Soul Sunday” explores the complex nature of relationships with a groundbreaking episode of the hit UK series “What About Me?”. The UK series reveals how music is used as a common language to unite commonalities within us all.

The Breathing Space segment will visit Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s Judy Istock Butterfly Haven.

In addition, a new SoulPancake short airs. SoulPancake is an enlightening and charming look at life from a different angle produced exclusively for “Super Soul Sunday” by the production company of “The Office’s” Rainn Wilson.

About Super Soul Sunday

Fans of “Super Soul Sunday” have likened it to their in-home church as it explores thought-provoking and life-changing issues. True to Oprah’s mission of striving for the best in herself and her viewers, Super Soul Sunday is focused on awakening the highest self and deepening relationships and connections to the world.

Regular features include “Under the Oaks,” a series of all-new conversations between Oprah Winfrey and top  thinkers, authors, and spiritual leaders in the serenity of an oak grove at her California home; plus, never-before-seen episodes of “Oprah’s Soul Series,” in-depth, one-on-ones between Oprah and some of the most fascinating authors and leaders of our time.

Happiness, personal fulfillment, health, spirituality and enlightened living is what ”Super Soul Sunday” specializes in every Sunday on OWN.

This interview between Carrie Seim and Elizabeth Moss was reposted with permission by the New York Post:

On being a feminist icon:

“As women in the workplace, we’re constantly trying to find a balance between being taken seriously and feeling sexy and good about ourselves…if you believe your ideas should be respected and if you believe you have a voice, then you’re a feminist.”

Moss lobs a post-divorce grenade at the Saturday Night Live funnyman Fred Armisen:

“One of the greatest things I heard someone say about him is, ‘He’s so great doing impersonations. But the greatest impersonation he does is that of a normal person.’ To me, that sums it up.”

About her biting remarks, she adds:

“I’m probably gonna get a slap on the wrist. But I’ve just been such a good girl. And sometimes you just want to be a bad girl for a minute.”

On posing in lingerie for Page Six Magazine’s cover:

“People will be surprised. I don’t walk around in a Burberry trench coat and bra all the time, but it’s fun to embrace that part of yourself.  I think every woman has a sexy, adventurous side.”

On what it’s like being single now:

“It’s fun to go out at night and not know what’s going to happen. I’m addicted and obsessed with my freedom in that sense. I’m having fun!”

On having kids in the future:

“I have a tremendous amount of respect for my mother, and it makes me want to be a really great mother. And sure, in an ideal world I can do it all. But I think for now I’m too young to know. You almost have to get older to understand that you’re too young to know.”

On season five of Mad Men, premiering March 25, she says:

“I am ecstatic with what happens this season.  I think the audience is going to be surprised. For me, it was very meaningful with what happens to Peggy.”

Check out the entire Page Six Magazine interview with Elisabeth Moss today online or find a hard copy free inside the New York Post.

About the New York Post

The New York Post founded by Alexander Hamilton in 1801 is the oldest continuously published daily newspaper in the United States and is one of the top ten newspapers in the country ranked by circulation. The Post offers the best news, business coverage, opinion – plus Page Six and The Best Sports in Town. The New York Post is available in print, on the web at NYPOST.com and via iPad, Android and smartphone applications.  The New York Post is owned by News Corporation.

Photo credit: The Riker Brothers/Headpress Photo for Page Six Magazine.

In honor of the 84th Annual Academy Awards, Secret Room Events produced their 2012 Academy Awards Style Lounge, held at the L’Ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills on the beautiful rooftop, where celebrities, VIPs and media indulged in products ranging the latest skin care technology and products, clothing,  jewelry and more while enjoying the beautiful view of L.A. Check out all the videos!

As always, The Secret Room always gives back and the charity of choice was The Humane Society of America.

The amazing variety of businesses and brands that attended and wowed the crowd and gifted their items included:

Pantofola d’Oro Italian stylish sport shoes from Italy began over a century ago and has been known to supply their great shoes to the world’s greatest athletes and champions. Made from quality and luxurious materials, Pantofola d’Oro is now taking the US by storm with their great styling and hot looks. www.Pantofoladorousa.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Nu Skin Enterprises Inc., the creators of the amazing Galvanic Spa, is leader in anti-aging technologies for skin care and nutritional products. They presented their new Galvanic Body Spa so now your body can look as flawless as your face.  The Galvanic Body Spa helps to minimize the appearance of cellulite and provide you with firmer looking skin. www.Nuskin.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Loudmouth Golf has an assortment of golf pants, shorts, suits, hats, belts and more that are not your average apparel! Run the range in a pair of Loudmouth pants. Loud mouth utilizes funky colors, patterns, and themes from our favorite classic tv shows! They will definitely make you be noticed stand out from the crowd. www.LoudMouthGolf.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Whitening Lightning is the at-home teeth-whitening kit to give you professional results and a bright, white smile. They also offer their Super-boost whitening pen to keep your smile bright inbetween whitening treatments. It dissolves difficult to remove stains without any damage to the tooth enamel.  The “Dial A Smile” Professional Whitening Kit provides the same results as going to a professional at fraction of the cost. www.WhiteningLightning.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Atzen Skin Care – A ‘green company” Using highly effective ingredients,  Atzen products deliver results. Using unique formulations that are composed of the highest concentrations of ingredients such as DNA, peptides, and ATP (energy), as well as ingredients direct from nature such as green tea, coconut, and olives. Atzen, is an all-natural product that will give you proven results too. www.Atzen.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Lolo Jewellry & Accessories –Glamorous Jewelry Displayed by Lolo Designs Designed by Lorena Ponis. Lolo Jewelry, is known for its glamorous, classic, and effortless style. Lolo Jewelry is created for women who have an appreciation for versatility, exclusivity, and timeless beauty.

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Tiare Hawaii Clothing  brings you the feeling of the islands. This clothing line, designed in Hawaii is women’s wear with a beach theme – dresses, Versatile day dresses become evening wear, and the line includes sundresses, tunics, bathing suit covers and more. They are now branching out into the mainland USA.  www.facebook.com/tiarehawaii, www.TiareHawaii.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Giavannas Closet is the chic boutique for high end pettiskirts and petti tops made of lace and chiffon pettiskirts, rompers, hair accessories and more. www.GiavannasCloset.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Regina Calderon Photography specializes in portraits for newborns, children, pregnancy and more. www.ReginaCalderonPhotography.com

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Blinx are beautiful necklaces that are also reading glasses. When you need to read the small print, just unfold the jewel and see what you need to see. Accented with Swarovski crystals, these were a real favorite at the suite. www.BlinksOnline.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

The Tiniest Tiger’s Cub Conservation Club is feline-friendly place for friends to gather, share and discuss their love for all cats big and small. They raise money for animal causes. The Tiniest Tiger is also charitable and helps cats in need- big cats and small. They are proud that their community has donated over $27,000 for big cat conservation.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Hylunia skin care products are organic, holistic, clinical and all-natural. At the suite they gifted several of their new products: body lotion with essentials oils, Eye cream with8  peptides, and a Beyond Complex C.  www.Hylunia.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Nordic Naturals was onhand to make sure everyone stays healthy with their all-natural Omega-3 fish oil suppliments, including Ultimate Omega, Nordic Berries multi-vitamins, prenatal supplements,  Children’s DHA and pearl-size fish oil supplements and gummy worms. www.NordicNaturals.com, Facebook.com/nordicnaturals

Click here to view the embedded video.

The Comfort Gourmet has taken an American classic, macaroni and cheese and put their gourmet spin With the addition of variety of vegetables and a combination of your favorite gourmet cheeses, they have taken this favorite dish to the next level. The Comfort Gourmet is available in the LA area such as: Gelsons, Bristol Farms, Whole Foods and more. www.comfortgourmet.com

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Jock Soap is a line developed exclusively for men. The line included products for the face, body, hair, as well as a fragrance.  Jock Soap utilizes traditional ingredients and  latest technology to create innovative formulations.  www.GetJock.com

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Shotgun Promos was onhand offering tastings of Macallan Oak Barrel Scotch, with a 7 year old and 10 year old, made in fine oak barrels, then switched to sherry barrels. www.shotgunpromos.com

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RenuAtum skincare is all natural, organic and they featured their new Youth Serum and a pain relief rub. www.RenuAtum.com

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NooSphere Studios had Oil Painted Canvas’ on display by Artist Marissa Denise. Her works are large abstract color field oil paintings. Her style is unique as she uses late 20th century post-war painting techniques. Her designs are in demand. www.noospherestudios.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

The Neocell Corporation provides premium collagen peptide-based dietary supplements,  They shared their 3-step beauty system:  Step 1 – strengthen the skin with collagen, Step 2 – hydrate the skin with Hyaluronic Acid and Step 3 –  protect the skin with Resveritrol. All three of their products to work together to help you stay young and healthy forever!  Neocell – www.neocell.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Beachy Cream Ice Cream, based in Malibu, CA, served up their delicious all-natural ice cream sandwich, Beachy Cream. A portable ice cream shoppe, they sweeten up any event. They offer an array of flavors such as strawberry surfer girl, key lime cowabunga, ginger wipe out and more. Beachy Cream – www.beachycream.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Ball Room Panic is a fun, free-spirited line of casual wear. www.BallRoomPanic.com

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Universal Angel Wings is an accessory clip designed to clip your hair, hold your beach towel, keep the pages to your book open and more. Spreading love, joy, hope, and faith, Universal Angel Wings, is the best pocket size accessory to take to a day at the beach or your everyday life. Universal Angel Wings – www.universalangelwings.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Eminence Organic Skin Care –  www.eminenceorganics.com

Turtle Island Fiji  is an all-inclusive, private island which accommodates only 14 couples at one time. The incredible views and scenera from your villa include the beautiful Blue Lagoon as well as neighboring islands. Special discounted rates were gifted. www.turtlefiji.com

Topricin is a line of pain relief products. Topricin showcased three items from its line. One for the feet, a cream for the body and a cream that can be used for children. www.topricin.com

Mujus is complete organic jewelry and accessories that uses biodegradable materials and fibers to create designs that are elegant and beautiful.  www.mujus.com

Other sponsors at the gift suite included:

Wakatobi Dive Resort, World’s Best Cat Litter,  Cat Power Tower, Dallas Prince Designs, Dominican Republic Representatives,  Sleep Couture, Suboo, and more.

The Secret Room Events hosted the 2012 Red Carpet Celebrity Lounge, honoring Academy Award nominees and benefited The Humane Society of The United States. The gift bag was featured in OK! Magazine with a photo of the gift bag and a featured giveaway.

Contact them for further information if you’d like to participate in their upcoming celebrity suites: Amy Boatwright 310-403-3384
www.secretroomevents.com
secretroomevents@yahoo.com
rsvpsecretroom@yahoo.com

Mike Koenigs is out to get his first million, and it’s not dollars, although he’s done that already. He’s out to make one million successful entrepreneurs. The ‘2009 Marketer of the Year’ winner is just one of the many titles Mike Koenigs holds including entrepreneur, filmmaker, speaker, and author and a patent holder in “Cross-Channel” Marketing Technology. Watch the LA’s the Place video interview to find out the key to Mike’s success.

Mike Koenigs has also coined the term ‘disruptive source’ marketing as “Chief Disruptasaurus” and Founder of Traffic Geyser and Instant Customer. His aim is to simplify marketing for tens of thousands of small businesses, authors, experts, speakers, coaches and consultants worldwide, thus on mark to create one million entrepreneurs.

As the dominating Disruptasauraus, Mike walks the talk, literally. Outfitted in a dinosaur costume, he delivers his message of the ‘disruption without destruction’ marketing message. He uses disruptive sourcing to change the way people think in order to create new pathways of marketing.

One major way he does this is in the story he tells. He is a firm believer that storytelling when selling is the way to go. Mike says in order to successfully sell, the format has to be 80% entertainment and only 20% information about the product or service.

Part of his service to small business owners is creating a compelling story in which to capture the targeted audience. He honed this over years of watching infomercials and TV interviews by Jay Leno, Jon Stewart and other personalities.

Turning his research in the film industry to practical knowledge, Mike Koenigs has generated over $3 million dollars in sales during a “direct to camera” live webcast. Mike’s company, Traffic Geyser, distributes video, articles and media to over 100 different social media and social networking platforms with the press of a button utilizing Instant Customer.

Instant Customer is an automated “cross-channel” marketing platform that captures leads with voice recognition, mobile, online and offline systems.

During his interview with LA’s The Place, he discussed a key marketing strategy: turning everyday clients into superstars. Jerad of the Subway commercials, who loses weight by eating a low calorie diet including Subway sandwiches, is the example he used to illustrate his point.

Although he promotes entrepreneur of the non-celebrity, he also has helped and coordinated with Paula Abdul, Tony Robbins, Tim Ferriss, Debbie Ford, John Assaraf from “The Secret”, Brian Tracy, Jorge Cruise, Dan Kennedy and Harvey MacKay.

He doesn’t stop there. Mike says he loves to start businesses. It shows as he produces 21st Century Book Marketing with his longtime friend and former Deepak Chopra publicist, Arielle Ford. He not only does books but movies too.

He executive produced “Bill’s Gun Shop”, an independent feature film that was distributed by Warner Brothers and produced a feature documentary, “Life With Tesla” about living gas-free with an electric car charged by the Sun. He’s a marketing machine, creating over 300 web sites and more than 35 products.

Mike travels the country spreading the way to become the newest hero: in one to ninety days you’re building a business that makes $100,000 yearly. You can also learn how to be an “All-Star” with his techniques. All-Stars are those who are creating a quarter of a million annually from a self-started business.

Mike Koenigs and Tony Robbins at Digital Cafe

Here are just some of the topics the online video marketing guru Mike Koenigs covers:
* How to Build Your Platform and Your List with Mobile Marketing

* How to Get More Traffic, Leads and Customers for ANY Business
Powerful Web Video Strategies to Broadcast Your Message to Billions of People with the Click of a Button!

* Make, Market, Launch It! How to Create, Market and Sell Your Own Information Products

* $125k in 5 Days with only 5 Hours of Work
The Greatest Hi-Tech Ways to Market Yourself, Product, Service or Business in the 21st Century

* How to Create a PowerTribe
Get a Perpetual, Automatic System That Captures Leads, Researches Prospects, Builds Trust, Reputation and Relationships and Sells any Product or Service on Autopilot

* How to Be a Disruptasaurus
Get Noticed, Get Seen & Get Paid More for Your Know-How and Passion

www.MikeKoenigs.com

To watch our interview with Mike Koenigs on his documentary “Life With Tesla” go here…

GBK's Gavin Keilly & Presenter Wendi McLendon Covey

GBK honored the 2012 Academy Awards Nominees and Presenters with its Annual Gift Lounge, held Feb 24 – 25, 2012 at the W Hollywood. Glistening golden, Swarovski crystal studded walls set the stage for this glamorous event celebrating the biggest night in Hollywood. Guests arrived in style excited to check out the luxury brands and charities participating in the lounge.

Each of these guest received luxurious gifts and services in the GBK fashion. Attendees included Oscar Winners Nat Faxon and Jim Rash (“The Descendants”) Melissa McCarthy (Oscar Nominee “Bridesmaids”), Wendi McLendon-Covey (Oscar Presenter “Bridesmaids”), Max von Sydow (Oscar Nominee “Incredibly Loud and Extremely Close”), Ken Davitian (“The Artist”), Dermott Mulroney (“The Grey”), Marcia Gay Harden (“Damages”), Penny Marshal, and Penelope Ann Miller (“The Artist”). The full celebrity guest list is below.

Featured Charities at GBK Gift Lounge

GBK, known for their huge efforts to give back to charity, featured the following at the Oscar lounge:

The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation – Their mission is to raise funds for research and awareness towards a cure for Juvenile diabetes. www.sugarrayleonardfoundation.com

Sugar Ray Leonard at GBK Academy Awards Gift Suite

The Worldteam Foundation – Rick and Sue Clark started the Worldteam Foundation in 2006 to combat human trafficking, starting with Thailand and the United States.

HollyRod Foundation – The HollyRod foundation is dedicated to providing compassionate cave to those living with autism and Parkinson’s disease. www.hollyrod.org One of GBK’s supporting initiatives included purchasing laptop computers, which were donated to the HollyRod Foundation, in the name of each nominee or presenter who attended the annual GBK celebrity lounge. Holly Robinson, Founder of HollyRod Foundation said of receiving the laptops, “At HollyRod we have known for years that technology has literally given non-verbal children with autism the ‘Gift of Voice’. Laptops, tablets along with revolutionary applications have made it possible for these children to communicate their feelings and needs like never before.”

Drawing for Hope – Using visual art to join sexual assault survivors from every state in the US and 150 other countries into a healing community which supports survivors to connect with their own strength, see their beauty and embrace their freedom. www.drawinghope.org

Gift Bag Health & Beauty Swag at GBK

One of the most sought after gifts at GBK’s Academy Awards Gift Lounge was a premium down pillow from the Gift Suite’s presenting sponsor My Pillow. Many of the stars were thrilled to receive their pillow including world champion boxer Sugar Ray Leonard who commented, “After all the fights I’ve had, I’m really looking forward to sleeping with My Pillow.” www.mypillow.com

Bridesmaids' Melissa McCarthy with My Pillow

Other healthy and beauty gifts included:

Ajinomoto North America, Inc. Capsiate Natura® is the first and only dietary supplement with rare, non-pungent capsinoids extracted from the natural CH-19 Sweet pepper, has been researched in nearly 50 extensive studies and substantiated to boost your metabolism* without any side effects, which can be helpful to your weight management in conjunction with diet and exercise. www.ajinomoto-usa.com

Glysom™ is a safe, effective, scientifically-proven and physician-distributed dietary supplement for deeper, sounder and more satisfying sleep without morning drowsiness* that leaves you fully refreshed for the day ahead.

Vani-T gorgeous collection of organic and natural based tanning products and mineral makeup: www.vani-t.com

Wendi McLendon-Covey with Vani-T

AMBE – a revolutionary skin care system developed by nationally recognized & board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Milind Ambe. It showcased two of its most popular products: Vitamin Veil and All-In-One Night Cream. www.ambe.net

Gilly’s Organic – Gifting blissful, organic, spa products for your skin and hair. Sugar scrub, moisturizer and cleanser.

Glymed Plus® – The GlyMed Plus FOR MEN Essentials Travel Kit & DNA Reset Face & Neck Cream. www.glymedplus.com

KiwiFox – Jar of Aqua Surge Age Defying Moisturizer, Shimmering Vitamin O2 Body Spray

Mayawater – Pure thermal source water from the Norwegian mountains, with organic antioxidants, that protects and moisturizes your skin.  www.mayawater.no

AnnaLynne McCord at GBK Academy Awards Gift Suite

MicaGem Fragrance – Two wonderful fragrances, Human Man & Human Women. For every fragrance sold we buy a mosquito net for a child in need.

RevitaLash ADVANCED – Newly formulated RevitaLash ADVANCED eyelash conditioner that lengthens and thickens eyelashes, as well as their new hair product called Hair by RevitaLash, which is conditioner that gives you thicker and fuller hair. www.revitalash.com

Sweet Roll – Sweet Roll, by Get-Set-Go, LLC, is the only hair styler that organically conditions hair while styling! www.buysweetroll.com

TEI Spa Essentials – Limited edition sonic spatula, facial mask and clutch, with 5% of proceeds to Downtown Women’s Center. www.teispa.com

Julep – Gorgeous toxin-free nail colors and cutting-edge mani and pedi products. www.julep.com

Jewelry Swag at GBK Academy Awards Gift Lounge

Lafonn – Platinum bonded sterling silver jewelry with simulated diamonds and gemstones for every woman who believes in living her dreams. www.lafonn.com

Paccioni – The Paccioni Centum is part of a new collection which has been brought to launch in the US at the Oscars 2012, the opportunity to custom design your own special edition’ quality Time piece.

Jim Rash with Customise Your Watch

Colantotte/Trion:Z – Colantotte/Trion:Z products contain axially magnetized magnets arranged in a unique Alternating North-South Polarity Orientation (ANSPO™) which increases the magnetic field flow. www.trionz.com

Chloe + Isabel – Chloe + Isabel designs its line of fashion jewelry to appeal to every woman — whether they seek the timeless elegance of a classic piece or the bold statement of the latest style. www.chloeandisabel.com

Chick Boss – Two Hand-made lei necklaces with mixed metal art pendants from the Mayalei collection, a hand-woven scarves plus a Chick Boss Tee-shirt. www.chickboss.com

Karen McClintock – Earrings from 2012 Spring Collection featuring sterling silver, Swarovski crystals and semi-precious stones. www.karenmcclintock.com

Made in Earth- Australia black tourmaline handcrafted sterling silver pendent. www.mieusa.co

Gifts to Make Life Better

Penelope Ann Miller (The Artist) with The Artisan Group

The Artisan Group – A collection of artists’ designer works, including whimsical unique handmade jewelry, bath and body products, gift for the home, stationary and more. www.theartisangroup.org

I-Wipey – I-Wipey the original peel + stick antibacterial screen cleaner. www.i-wipey.com

Ozonator – Patented Ozonator™ The Green Refrigerator Machine is the 21st Century update to your refrigerator that extends the life of your fresh and organic fruits, vegetables, and perishable foods, saving you thousands on wasted food each year. www.ozonator.com

Max Mirani – MOVE Mobile Closet is a brilliant 2-in-1 cabin-size suitcase that eliminates the need to unpack and repack in each destination. www.maxmirani.com

Holly Robinson Peete with Max Mirani suitcase.

Lumeria Maui – A Luxury Educational Retreat offering Classes & Programs in yoga, water activities, metaphysical studies, horticulture and Hawaiian history and culture. www.lumeriamaui.com

Staree by IZEA – The premier celebrity-only platform that allows its users to monetize their updates, photos, and videos while maintaining full control of their content. They gifted the 8GB iPod Touch preloaded with the Staree application. www.izea.com

Mama Earth Rocks Publishing – Pinky the Star- Motivation Illustrated Children’s Books. www.mamaearthrocks.com

FILTER 2 GO – Filter 2GO products allow you to filter water as you drink in a portable bottle with included filtration device. www.filter2go.com

Carter Kustera brought to you by AOL – Custom silhouette and text portraits.

SnapSac– SnapSac gave eco-friendly stylish totes that are reinventing reusable bags as more accessory than drab necessity. www.snapsac.co

Sweet Shoppe Candles – Gifting a 16oz Anise Biscotti Jar Candle, the aroma of sweet baked goodness! www.sweetshoppecandles.com

Milena’s Boutique – Milena`s Candles are made from exclusive organic and kosher soy wax, pure essential oils, soy oils organic wood wick and cotton wick.

Tkaro – Red Dot Award winning Tkaro, a transportable glass bottle with protective stainless steel cover: the glass you take with you.

GBK Gift Lounge Culinary Gifts

Green PolkaDot Box – A large collection of the Green PolkaDot Box’s favorite organic foods and products, and a membership to the nation’s first online buying collective that gives members up to 60% savings on natural, non-GMO, and organic foods and products. www.greenpolkadotbox.com

GOFoods – GOFoods is feeding and prospering the world by serving, saving and sharing relevant, easy-to-prepare, all natural, preservative, non-GMO meals and beverages for on-the-go-lifestyles that encourage people to eat nutritiously. www.gofoodsglobal.com

Apple Revolution – Designer Caramel Apples www.apple-revolution.com

Bread Basket Cake Company – Creamy rich dark chocolate red velvet truffles and a gift certificate for an 8 in custom cake. www.breadbasketcake.com

Ali Fedotowsky @ GBK Academy Awards Gift Suite

Gorreana Tea Estate – Organic European grown rare green & black tea collection from Europe’s only green tea Plantation. www.gorreanatea.com

Ticklebelly Desserts - Luxury cake pops with metallic jewel finishes tucked into exclusive one of a kind totes. www.ticklebellydesserts.com

Obsessive Confection Disorder – An assortment of the finest vegan confections presented in a natural cotton tote bag. www.obsessiveconfectiondisorder.com

WineChateau.com – Gifting a wide variety of wines as well as gift certificates.

California Caviar – A customized caviar collection. Their choice of four different caviars in a caviar cooler with blini and crème fraiche.

thinkThin – The nominees and presenters received a beautiful wellness package filled with thinkThin nutrition bars, swag and a special golden ticket for a year’s supply of thinkThin protein bars. www.thinkproducts.com

GBK Gift Suite Academy Award Attendees

Here are the celebrity attendees of the 2012 GBK Gift Suite:

Aisha Dee  “I Hate My Teenage Daughter”, Ali Fedotowsky  “The Bachelorette”, Allie Gonino  ” The Lying Game” (Laurel Mercer), Amara Miller  “The Descendents” (Film Nominated for Best Motion Picture of the Year), AnnaLynne McCord  “90210”, Ben Schwartz  “House of Lies” (Clyde), “Parks and Recreation”, Cheech Marin  CBS’ “Rob” (Fernando), Chelsea Rendon  “A Better Life” (Ruthie Valdez), Cloris Leachman  “Raising Hope”, Colin Egglesfield  “The Client List,” “Something Borrowed” (Dex), Cress Williams“Hart of Dixie” (Lavon Hayes), Dallas Roberts  “The Grey” (Hendrick), “The Good Wife” (Owen), Dermot Mulroney  “The Grey” (Talget), “Big Miracle”, Desmond Harrington  “Dexter” (Joey Quinn), “Gossip Girl” (Jack Bass), Eric Szmanda  “CSI” (Greg Sanders), Frankie Muniz  “Malcolm in the Middle”, Garrett Morris  “2 Broke Girls” (Earl), Gil Birmingham  “Twilight” movies (Billy Black), Glynn Turman  “House of Lies” (Jeremiah), Hector Elizondo  ABC’s “Last Man Standing” (Ed), Holly Robinson Peete  “Mike & Molly”, Iqbal Theba  “Glee”, J.K. Simmons  “The Closer” (Will Pope), Jennifer Aspen  “GCB”, Jim Rash  “The Descendants” (Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay) (Film Nominated for Best Motion Picture of the Year), Jon Bernthal  AMC’s “The Walking Dead” (Shane Walsh), Josh Sussman  “Glee”,

GBK Academy Awards Gift Bag

About GBK

GBK, formerly GBK Productions, is a luxury lifestyle gifting and special events company, specializing in entertainment marketing integration. Formed in 2000 by Gavin Keilly, the company’s Founder and CEO, GBK consists of five divisions: GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Special Events, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations. www.gbkproductions.com.

Video coming soon!

Sneak Peek! “Welcome To Sweetie Pie’s” owner Robbie Montgomery excels at turning lemons into lemonade. Robbie was one of the original backup singers to Ike and Tina Turner in the 60’s and now the star of OWN Network’s reality TV show Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s, premiering March 31, 2012. But her journey was not all mountain-top experiences.

After a collapsed lung that disabled her singing voice, she focused her creativity into cooking. Robbie took her mother’s soul food recipes and opened Sweetie Pie’s. Sweet Pie’s has become an iconic St. Louis soul food restaurant, now with two successful locations, and another one on the way with the help of her son, Tim.

In the second season of Welcome To Sweetie Pie’s, we see a miracle take place:  Tim and his fiancee, Jenae, during a visit to the doctor, discover there is a problem with the pregnancy and that they must do an emergency c-section at 6 months; viewers get to witness a miracle through pray and love, see the baby through the next 3 months and the day they take the baby home.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Tim and Jenae move into Robbie’s home,  tend to their newborn son, who is as precious as can be, and plan their wedding.  But her life is not dull as although she loves having her grandson there, she let’s Tim know she is not his live in babysitter! Miss Robbie keeps the family in line, including her wise-cracking nephew Lil’ Charles, while she struggle with the demands of expanding their family-owned business.

Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s follows the loud, loving and still very musical Montgomery family. The show is heartfelt, authentic and has a whole lotta soul…this show will warm your heart and make you laugh. Watch for yourself when Welcome To Sweetie Pie’s  premieres March 31st and runs to June 18th on OWN TV.

Tim Norman
Tim Norman was born and raised in St. Louis, MO by his single mother Robbie Montgomery. His father passed away before he was born, so Tim and his mother remain close. At the age of 17, Tim was arrested for armed robbery and sentenced to serve 10 years in prison. Upon his release he vowed to make something positive out of his life and joined the family business, where he now helps to manage his mother’s two successful restaurants: Sweetie Pie’s, and Sweetie Pie’s at the Mangrove.

Tim also gives back to the community by creating jobs for newly paroled and homeless residents and providing food to those in need. He also participates in several youth-oriented organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, where he works with at-risk youth to help inspire self-confidence and guide them down a positive life path. He has received numerous awards recognizing his community service.

www.oprah.com/own-sweetie-pies/Welcome-to-Sweetie-Pies
#SweetiePies

Welcome to

LA’s The Place attended the annual WOW! Creations Lifestyle OSCAR Gifting Suite, which took place on the rooftop of the L’Ermatage Hotel in Beverly Hills, leading up to the Academy Awards. Watch the video above to see all the vendors who presented their brands and products to Hollywood!

WOW Creation's Mark and Matt Harris with Gary Busey.

Stars and luminaries were overflowing at the exciting event, which featured new and exciting and brands and businesses from across the country and around the world that came to Hollywood and converged with stars and media.

Matt and Mark Harris with Lou Ferrigno

These companies had the opportunity to mingle with the stars and share their brands with Hollywood:

Khanna Institute of LASIK (www.khannainstitute.com) are true innovators in the field of laser vision correction. Dr. Rajesh Khanna is a certified Master of Surgery and an internationally recognized top LASIK and refractive vision care specialist. His treatments cover a variety of eye concerns including blended vision and monovision, and Dr. Khanna also performs reflective lens exchange and cataract surgery. Specializing in the safest and most advanced types of refractive laser surgery, Dr. Khanna’s cutting- edge vision correction techniques include the ultra-precise WavePrint eye tracking software, 3D ActiveTrak and Variable Spot Scanning. Dr. Khanna has done numerous procedures on many celebrities, all with excellent results.  Now in Beverly Hills! 1-888-LASIK-19

Do All Outdoors: Provides outdoor shooting equipment for many films and tv shows in Hollywood. www.doalloutdoors.com

Hollywood Eye Magic: Just what we love – instantaneous results! Hollywood Eye Magic is just that. This instant under eye tuck serum will eliminate the need to ever think about getting under eye surgery for bags, dark circles and wrinkles. Just like magic. This product proves itself with the first application. And they offer business opportunities! www.HollywoodEyeMagic.com

Visable Treasures is a collection of beautiful silver, gemstones and fashion jewelry. This company was develop to provide a vehicle through which all women have an opportunity to achieve their financial independence and personal aspirations. Their greatest treasures are the wonderful women who inspire, guide and lead other women to believe in their dreams, and know in their hearts that, together, anything is possible! Go to visabletreasures.com to find out how you can become a reseller of this gorgeous jewelry. Their Motto: Visibly Beautiful TM

‘Glo to Sleep’ is a simple solution to fall asleep naturally and staying asleep. The GLOtoSLEEP™mask is produced by Sound Oasis, the company that specializes in healthy solutions for today’s busy world. It helps you fall asleep by utilizing an Eastern relaxation technique of ‘looking up,’ which converts the brain’s active Beta waves to calming Alpha waves. With four rows of photo luminescent bars inside the eye cavities, which glow blue when charged with a light bulb or sunlight, nagging thoughts disappear when the wearer glances up and down the rows of ‘glo;’ allowing sleep to follow. www.GLOtoSLEEP.us

Gary Busey and girlfriend with GLO to SLEEP

BeautiControl:  Yahrasiel Colbert was on hand at the suite with the company she respresents, called Beauti Control. One of the items she was gifting was an amazing serum called “Extreme Tight Firm and Fill ”, which gives you instantaneous results, and lives up to its name! BeautiControl specializes in scientifically advanced skin care and beauty products and along with life-changing opportunities to create your own business. www.bcglam.com

Dr. Cathy Gohar, plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. She offers Botox, fillers, peels, velashape, and all type of plastic surgery procedures. www.Facebook.com/beverlyhillsmedispa 310.591.0082

Arctic Ease® wraps and pads are a simple yet effective alternative to traditional cold therapy. It is a clinically-studied reliable and effective treatment for mild to moderate aches, pains and inflammation from the pain associated with arthritis and back, joint and muscle pains and sprains, along with repetitive motion injuries, minor burns and bruises. The Arctic Ease products provide hours of odorless relief from pain and inflammation without the hazards and discomfort of ice or frozen gel packs or irritating menthol patches. www.ArcticEase.com

Sculptures by Stella – Stella Singleton-Jones is an abstract stone sculptor.  Her stone sculptures takes anywhere from 2 to 6 months to make. All of her sculptures are made completely by hand, and she does not use any electric tools.  All sculptures are one of a kind in the world; and Stella does not draw any pictures so all sculptures are made by the feel which she gets from each individual stone.  A lot of the time she does not know what the stone sculpture will be until it completion. Stella also has a stone sculpture in the White House, called (Unity).  You can view her stone sculptures on her website at:  www.sculpturesbystella.com

Made Up By Kat – Kat Rollins is a celebrity make up article who is available for print, runway, briday and special occastions. www.MadeUpByKat.com

Creative Styles by Charlene – Charlene Brown is a celebrity hairstylist, available for print, runway and special occasions. She has styled celebrities such as Starr Jones, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Korto M from Project Runway, Atlanta Housewives NeNe, shows such as Top Model, BET Specials, and much more. www.sophizticatedladyz.viewbook.com

Chocolate Shop Wine – Fusing chocolate with red wine, two favorite flavors was a winner. www.ChocolateShopWine.com

C-Zen Neck Pillow. Portable, memory foam head cradle pillow that heals the tension from your neck, head and shoulder while you rest or sleep at the WOW! Creation gift lounge for the Oscars. www. simply-my-comfort.com and www.c-zen.com

Baby Butz Cream – diaper rash cream, also known to help ezema and rashes. All natural. www.babybutz.com

Gnarly Head Wines – Grapes from 35 to 80 year-old gnarled, head trained vines, that over decades, have produced exceptionally full-flavored grapes. They say “Old vines make bold wines”. www.gnarlyhead.com

Mary Louise Butter’s Brownies –  from Texas, 20 different flavors, all natural, no preservatives. www.butterbrownies.com

‎Bfoxy.com brought a sampling of their sassy, sexy eye-catching high-quality fashion accessories and celebs at the Oscar gifting lounge loved them! BFoxy.com is the retailer for the Fashionably Obsessed Woman, who is in search of Unique and Savvy items to Spice up the wardrobe. www. Bfoxy.com

Fantasy and Surreal artist Shawna Erback presented prints from her DreamWorks Animation Fine Art Collection to celebrities in Hollywood at the WOW! Creations 2012 Oscar Gifting Lounge. www.ShawnaErback.com
mindysmunchies.com

Elektra Cosmetics is a premium glitter cosmetics that stay on all day; glitter eyeliner that stays on 10 hours. they distribute the hottest beauty, fashion and lifestyle products that they scout from around the world. They discover the latest trends and hunt down the newest “it” items before they become mainstream. Their products are great finds that are unique, playful and have that little something-something that, they say,”is hard to describe.” www.elektracosmetics.com

Hard Luck Candy Vodka served cocktails with their delicious new flavors of vodka to celebrities and vip’s. Although there are many companies that make flavored vodkas, few that make them well. Hard Luck Candy vodka is as true as its advertising; when they say it’s root beer vodka, it tastes like root beer. Their 70 proof candy-flavored vodka are available in four honestly delicious flavors: Red Fish, Root Beer Barrel, Orange Dream, and Lemon Drop. hardluckvodka.com

Purple Tiger is an all natural dietary supplement designed to increase energy and metabolism resulting in amazing weight loss! www.purpletigerpills.com

Udderly Smooth® products contain rich moisturizing ingredients. Not your average moisturizing lotion- Udderly Smooth® can be used on Dry Skin, Cracked Skin, forDiabetes Foot Care, as a Facial Moisturizer, as a General Moisturizing Lotion and many other uses.uddercream.com

Lather And Luxury:  Luxury bath and body products, many made in Italy and France, feature beautiful, natural fragrances and are free of Parabens, Ethyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, and DEA. www. LatherAndLuxury.com

Brincatti – Kenny Brincat, was a seasoned traveler and realized there wasn’t an easy way to travel with favorite brands. He wondered if there was a better way to refill bottles with preferred brands, rather than fussing with traditional travel bottles. The concept for the wide-mouth refillable was born. www.brincatti.com
elektracosmetics.com

Yumi Katsura is one of Japan’s and the world’s most prolific designers, whose wedding dresses are considered modern masterpieces. Katsura will showcase the most expensive wedding dress to date, valued at one billion Japanese yen (US $8.5 million). Made from silk-satin and embellished with zari-embroidery handiwork, the dress is decorated with 1,000 pearls, a green 8.8 carat diamond emblem, and a 5 carat white gold diamond, one of the two existing in the world. www.yumikatsuracouture.com

Hollywood Eye Magic – In Hollywood, your cosmetics must work and work well. This serum works instantly to take away the bags and wrinkles under your eye, just like magic. www.hollywoodeyemagic.com

The indiExhibit is an organization that represents independent artisans and creatives at the best celebrity gift lounges in Hollywood. If you are looking to elevate your indie brand through celebrity gifting, they can help. Their group consists of artisans and creatives from around the globe who have come together to promote their work collectively. www.theindiexhibit.org

Tear Drop Weddings will turn your favorite picture into a caricature. On display at the gift suite was stationary and buttons of all the nominees. www.teardropweddings.com

Fantasy and Surreal artist Shawna Erback presented prints from her DreamWorks Animation Fine Art Collection. www.ShawnaErback.com

Big Feet Pajamas snuggle you in the same footed pj’s you loved as a child, but in an adult size. Cozy and comfortable, the pajamas are available in fabrics such as shirting flannel, cotton knit, micro-polar fleece, and wool cashmere. They are sized to fit most any shape. For men, women and juniors. Soon Valerie Johnson will be presenting zippered pj’s with hoodies. www.BigFeetPJs.com

Ron Greig is a Canadian artist who with background in hand-painting photo-realistic billboards, and draws and paints quality caricatures, portraits and fine art. www.rongreig.ca

Saint James Cosmetics is an opulent line of products designed especially for women of color by Patricia Saint James of Beverly Hills. www.saintjamescosmetics.com

Precept Wine presents a portfolio of premium wines from some of the most premier wine regions in the world, including Washington State, Oregon, Idaho, Australia and Germany. They are the largest family-owned wine company in the Northwest. www.preceptwinebrands.com.

The Sweteez antimicrobial fitness towel protects you from germs. It is treated with a patented, EPA registered silicon-based protectant that inhibits germs, including MRSA and staph, keeping your fitness center, pilates or yoga workout cleaner and safer. www.sweteez.com

Jody Vial Jewelry – Vintage Couture Costume and Contemporary Jewelry Collection. www.jodyvialyjewelry.com

Aromatherapy products by www.bodyfood.ca

Glitzy Lips – Eye-popping lip foil designs in your favorite colors or multi-colors. Stand out in a crowd! www.glitzylips.com

Matt and Mark Harris with Maria Conchito Alonso

WOW! Creations is a Los Angeles-based celebrity marketing / public relations marketing agency. Since 2004 they have been providing celebrity gift bags and hosting celebrity gift lounges around the world. Sundance Film Festival , Oscars, Emmys, Kentucky Derby, Miss America, Miss Universe, Miss USA, TV Land Awards, TBS Comedy Festival and many more events.

www.wowcreationsmedia.com

www.youtube.com/wowcreations

www.flickr.com/photos/wowcreations

www.twitter.com/wowhollywood

http://www.facebook.com/wowcreations

Kendra Wilkinson and Hank Baskett offer their views and thoughts with “THE DOCTORS” to dispel some of the most common sex myths. In this clip, Hank reveals whether sex is allowed in his pre-game ritual. Tune-in for tomorrow’s episode of the Emmy Award-winning syndicated talk show THE DOCTORS.Kendra shares her “Love Candy” romance kit with the co-hosts of “The Doctors.” Watch to also find out which gender needs more foreplay as THE DOCTORS hook a couple up to brain sensors to monitor who gets aroused the quickest! Watch this sneak peak from tomorrow’s show.

Photos and clips are Courtesy of CBS Television Distribution / Stage 29 Productions LLC

(From L to R) Dr. Andrew Ordon, Kendra Wilkinson, Hank Baskett, Dr. Lisa Masterson, Dr. Travis Stork on set of “The Doctors”

(From L to R) Kendra Wilkinson, Hank Baskett, Dr. Lisa Masterson on set of “The Doctors”

 Dr. Andrew Ordon is part of the RoxSpa Aesthetics Plastic Surgury practice in Beverly Hills, with Dr. Jay Calvert.