The exhillarating view from the Zeppelin Eureka.

Stretching 15-feet longer than a 747 and 50-feet longer than the largest blimp, Eureka is the world’s largest airship. One of only three Zeppelins currently operating in the world, Eureka offers passengers spectacular 360-degree views of the sights on flightseeing tours above Los Angeles, as well as San Francisco Bay, Silicon Valley and Monterrey.

Unforgettable Family Memories

“As much as the holidays are about togetherness, anyone who has ever hosted a holiday knows the moment of panic when the inevitable question, ‘what am I going to do with everyone?’ crosses their mind,” remarked Airship Ventures Co-Founder and CEO Alexandra Hall. “I’ve yet to meet a passenger who didn’t get off of our airship grinning from ear-to-ear. Gathering family and friends together to experience a one-of-a-kind aerial tour aboard Eureka is a great way to entertain guests and create unforgettable memories.”

Only Female Zeppelin Pilot

The Zeppelin Eureka Airship signature grin.

Flying Eureka into the peaceful skies safely is pilot Katharine Board. Kate holds several distinctions, including being a member of an elite group even more rare than female astronauts  — female airship pilots. Kate however, holds an even more prestigious title  – -  the only female Zeppelin pilot in the world. From her first instruction flight at the age of 18, Kate has risen fast in the male-dominated world of airships. One of her first aviation positions, with Virgin Hot Air Balloon flights, led to her first airship position, with Virgin Lightships. Beginning as a ground crewman, she eventually worked her way up to pilot, and has CAA, LBA and FAA commercial airship licenses. Kate has flown extensively in Europe and America, logging more than 5,000 flight hours. At 5-feet 2-inches tall, she effortlessly commands the largest airship in the world.

The only female Zeppelin pilot in the world, Kate Board.

Holiday Savings

As part of jumpstarting the holiday season, Airship Ventures, which celebrated its one-year anniversary of service in October, will be continuing a month-long celebration of this milestone by re-offering its most popular promotion while in Long Beach. Just in time for holiday gift-giving and family outings, passengers who buy one ticket at full price will save 50 percent on a second. This promotional rate applies to all regularly priced Long Beach tours between Nov. 19-23, as well as to all gift certificates bought before Nov. 30.

“Like floating in a luxury skybox on a cloud,” as one passenger described it, Airship Ventures flightseeing tours offer passengers spectacular 360-degree views of the scenery below. In addition to popular one- and two-hour Los Angeles-area routes showcasing either the dramatic Pacific Coast, or historic L.A. landmarks and famous Tinseltown icons, Airship Ventures will for the first time offer 30-minute and night flights from Long Beach in November.

Taste of Zeppelin Tours

The 30-minute Taste of Zeppelin tours will give passengers the opportunity to experience a luxury flight in a Zeppelin airship above scenic Long Beach Harbor and to enjoy the stunning Pacific and California Coastline views stretching out before them. One-hour Night Time Tour passengers will also enjoy the leisurely luxury of airship travel while marveling at the inky black Pacific Ocean meeting the shoreline and admiring the glittering city below.

The Zeppelin Airship cockpit.

Night Tours

“By adding our Night Tour and Taste of Zeppelin flights to the roster of tours we offer passengers in Southern California, we feel like we can truly say there is an experience for everyone. Whether you’re flying on an airship to help fulfill your bucket list, looking for the ultimate romantic date, celebrating a special occasion, or just wanting to have a great time with family and friends this holiday season, you will find that on Eureka,” continued Hall.

Coastal  Tour

For those seeking the ultimate Zeppelin experience, a limited number of seats remain on our California Airship Cruises between Long Beach and the San Francisco Bay Area. Soaring above the California Coastline and Central Valley, these 8-hour cruises follow Highway 1 on Nov. 24 (northbound) as Eureka travels to-and-from Long Beach from her home base at Moffett Field near San Francisco.

About Airship Ventures, Inc.

Founded in 2007 in California, Airship Ventures, Inc., operates the only passenger airship operation in the United States, featuring Eureka, the world’s largest airship. The Zeppelin’s spacious cabin comfortably accommodates one pilot, one flight attendant, and 12 passengers, with luxury features including oversized panoramic windows, an onboard restroom with window, and a 180-degree rear observation window and “love seat” that wraps the entire aft of the cabin. Using the inert gas helium for lift, and vectored thrust engines for flight, Zeppelin NTs have been flying in Germany and Japan since 1997 with an unparalleled safety record. 

Zeppelin Airship, Eureka, ready to take you above it all.

Weather permitting, Los Angeles-area flights depart from the AirFlite FBO terminal, adjacent to the main terminal at Long Beach Airport (3250 AirFlite Way, Long Beach, CA 90807, at the corner of Cherry and Wardlow). Flights vary in duration from 30-minutes to 2-hours and range in price from $199-$990, plus tax, per person. Private charters and sunset flights are available.

For more information about Eureka, or to view a detailed flight schedule and purchase tickets, visit www.airshipventures.com, or call 650-969-8100 x111.

Koo Koo Roo ‘s Thanksgiving Specials

Original Turkey Feast includes a fresh oven roasted turkey, gravy, cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and a choice of fresh pumpkin, apple or pecan pie. Large size serves approximately16-20 people and is available for $149.99. Small size serves approximately10-12 people and is available for $99.99.

Mini Turkey Feast includes carved turkey breast, gravy and choice of two Koo Koo Roo signature sides. Serves up to 4 and is available for $20.00.

Single Serving Thanksgiving Dinner includes carved turkey breast, gravy and choice of two Koo Koo Roo signature sides. Available for $10.00.

All Koo Koo Roo locations will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Orders for the Original Turkey Feast must be placed by 5 pm on Tuesday, November 24th.

Koo Koo Roo’s Healthy Motto

Koo Koo Roo Chicken Bistro was hatched in Los Angeles in 1988 and has been clucking its message of the Life Unfried around Southern California ever since.  It is a leading fast-casual provider of “Better for You” food with wholesome and healthy menu items, including succulent rotisserie chicken, the famous bone-in, skinless charbroiled chicken breast, freshly prepared salads, savory sandwiches and seasonal side dishes including the famous “Ross Squash.” Ardent fans have long hailed Koo Koo Roo as the healthier alternative to traditionally fatty fast food and catapulted its signature dishes to cult status within the Southern California community.  Koo Koo Roo Chicken Bistro operates 15 fast casual restaurants throughout Southern California.  For more information please visit www.kookooroo.com

Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s co-production of the “Mary Poppins” musical is just what the doctor ordered in these times of economic worry and stress as the message of family before material wealth is magically conveyed by the original 2006 Broadway cast.  Perfect for a holiday gift or a way to entertain visiting guests, Mary Poppins runs through February 7th, 2010.

Mary Poppins: Practically Perfect

“Mary Poppins,” a co-production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, opened on Broadway on November 16, 2006.  Based on P.L. Travers’ cherished stories and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, “Mary Poppins” the stage play features the Academy Award®-winning music and lyrics of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman.  The stage production has been created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, who has written the book, and the Olivier Award-winning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, who have composed new songs and additional music and lyrics.

Award Winning Creative Team

Olivier Award-winning director Richard Eyre leads the award-winning creative team, with co-direction and choreography by Tony® and Olivier Award winner Matthew Bourne. “Mary Poppins” features eye-popping set and costume design by Tony Award winner Bob Crowley, co-choreography by Olivier Award winner Stephen Mear, lighting design by Howard Harrison, orchestrations by William David Brohn, and music supervision by David Caddick. The tour’s creative team includes Tour Director Anthony Lyn, Associate Choreographer Geoffrey Garrett, and Music Director James Dodgson.

Everybody Loves Mary

Consistently among the top-grossing shows on Broadway, “Mary Poppins” continues in its 3rd smash year at the New Amsterdam Theatre and recently celebrated its 1000th performance – a milestone reached by only a rare few number of shows in Broadway history. The Broadway production has grossed over $152 million to date and been seen by over 1.8 million theatregoers.

Simultaneously, the show’s popularity grows around the globe. Following a successful three year run (December 2004 – January 2008) at the Prince Edward Theatre on London’s West End, a UK tour of “Mary Poppins” commenced in summer 2008 and concluded its acclaimed run in Cardiff in April 2009. The Australian production of “Mary Poppins” will premiere in July 2010 at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Melbourne.

Mary Poppins Debuts in Holland

An open-ended run of “Mary Poppins” will take residence at the Circus Theatre in Scheveningen, Holland, outside of Amsterdam. The show will open in April 2010 at the Circus Theatre following “Tarzan’s” record setting run there. “Mary Poppins” will be produced in Holland by Stage Entertainment in association with Disney and Cameron Mackintosh.

Original Broadway Cast in LA

The Los Angeles engagement of “Mary Poppins” is by arrangement with Center Theatre Group and is part of CTG’s 2009-2010 season at the Ahmanson Theatre, located at the Los Angeles Music Center. The entire creative team has reunited to bring this magical story of the world’s most famous nanny to audiences across North America. Original Broadway stars, Ashley Brown and Gavin Lee, reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert, respectively. Joining Brown and Lee will be Karl Kenzler as George Banks, Megan Osterhaus as Winifred Banks, Valerie Boyle as Mrs. Brill, Andrew Keenan-Bolger as Robertson Ay, Ellen Harvey as Miss Andrew, Mary VanArsdel as The Bird Woman, and Mike O’Carroll as Admiral Boom. Performances in the role of Jane Banks will be alternated between Katie Balen and Bailey Grey. Performances in the role of Michael Banks will be alternated between Bryce Baldwin and Carter Thomas.

Mary Poppins Tickets

Ticket prices for “Mary Poppins” range from $20 to $102.  VIP/Premium Ticket Packages are also available at select performances for $135 and $150, and include premium seating and a complimentary souvenir program. Hot-Tix, priced at $20, are available and can be purchased in advance, or subject to availability, on the day of performance at the CTG box office (no checks). For the deaf community, call TDD (213) 680-4017 for tickets and information. Orders for groups of 15 or more may be placed by calling (213) 972-7231.

Tickets for “Mary Poppins” are available by calling Center Theatre Group Audience Services at (213) 972-4400, in person at the Center Theatre Group box office located the Ahmanson Theatre or online at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org.

For more information, please visit www.CenterTheatreGroup.org or www.MaryPoppinsTour.com.

KIIS FM’s Jingle Ball is presented by H&M and will feature live performances by: Taylor Swift, Keri Hilson, Fabolous, Ting Tings, 3Oh!3, LMFAO, Jay Sean and Jason Derulo.  Host of television’s top rated “American Idol,” and KIIS FM’s top rated morning radio show, Ryan Seacrest will appear live at the event along with the KIIS FM air personalities.
 
“Seeing a line up like this in a venue like Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE is going to be a great concert experience for the KIIS listeners,” states John Ivey, VP Programming for KIIS FM.  “Taylor alone just sold out two LA area arena shows in basically a few minutes.  So this is definitely a rare opportunity to not only see her live in an intimate setting, but also a great chance to see some of the best selling artists and rising stars who’ve had some of the biggest hits of the year.”
 
On October 15th, Jingle Ball went on sale first to the station’s VIP Rewards Club Members, and today tickets are on sale to the public at www.kiisfm.com.

Iraq Star, a non-profit foundation created by Maggie Lockridge, R.N. in February 2007, is dedicated to providing medical reconstructive surgeries to assist U.S. returning war veterans recovering from physical and mental injuries returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan. The foundation’s efforts are geared toward helping veterans heal from emotional trauma, develop and enhanced level of self esteem and ease their return to pre-war lives.

This is no ordinary fundraiser! This is also a day of relaxation, positive energy and healing for you! If you choose, you can relax and slip into a beautiful Spa robe when you enter. The robe is yours to keep! (Bring your own slippers).

The dynamic line up of speakers include:

Psychic Medium Cheri Mancuso

You will have the opportunity to meet and greet Celebrity Medium Cheri Mancuso, a Reiki Master: MSA, who will guide all 700 guests into a positive mediation and dazzle all as she psychically tunes into guests for fun!

Cheri is available for private readings on Sunday. Must R.S.V.P. Check out her website here. www.mediumcheri.com

Daryl L. Frazier, Professional Motivational Speaker, Certified Trainer of NLP and Hypnosis, Daryl will share how to understand the power of positive energy, create it and keep it  in our lives.

Actress & Vocal Artist, Patricia Welch, who played in the King and I as ‘Tuptim with Yul Brynner, played the role of Maria in ‘The Sound of Music’ and ‘West Side Story’, Duet’s with Robert Goulet. She was Featured Soloist with Wayne Newton’s Show and Soloist for many Orchestra Concerts. Amazing vocalist you will not forget.

Guests Arrive: 2:30, Shop and Fun Starts: 3:00, Dinner: 4:30

Raffles to include: Getaway weekends, spa treatments, vein treatments, Botox, hair treatments, dinners and the list goes on…Raffle tickets: $20.00 for 25 tickets, you choose what you want to win!

Participating resorts include Hilton PS, Hyatt PS, Hotel Andreas, Riviera Resort, Hotel Zoso, Mira Monte Resort just to name a few. All raffle proceeds will benefit Iraq Star.

A great discount card is provided to shop at their great shopping boutiques including:

LA Di Da Jewelry, Reverge Boutique, Megumi Charms, Crystal Fantasy, Instruments of Inspiration Clothing, Marimendoza.com Arts, Jewel Energetics, Arbonne, Purses Just 4 U, Tracy’s Aura Photography, Balance by Design, Healthy Times Newspaper and the list goes on…!

And of course, there are free gifts for every guest, which include: Renown Jazz Composer, Sammy Nestico CD. Mr. Nestico will be available to autograph for you, along with other great gifts to value over $140.00

Marine Veteran Octavio Sanchez, Maggie Lockridge RN, Founder (and angel!), Marine SSgt. Tony Lino, Marine GySgt. Paul McQuigg

Visit IRAQ STAR at www.iraqstar.org

Reserve your ticket/table today.

760-870-4668, Office; event coordinator, Christine Fleming

760-289-2972, Elayna Freiberg  for tickets and more information.

You can also email them at: Christine@MasterOfCeremonyEnterprise.com

Website: http://masterofceremonyenterprise.com/Events.html

Tickets are $95.00 per person. The cost of entrance includes dinner and all of the fabulous giveaways.

Office Hours; Monday through Friday – 7:00 am – 8pm

No matter your political view of the war, everyone can agree that soldiers need a good send off and warm welcome home.  Senior citizens are doing just that for our troops while finding new meaning for their life. Flight after flight of war-bound and returning GIs are met by a determined band of patriotic senior citizens. Over 900,000 to date. POV’s “The Way We Get By” tells the stories of these famous “Troop Greeters” of Bangor, Maine, on Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2009, in a special presentation on PBS.

“Unfailingly modest and profoundly humane. . . . Neither pro- nor antiwar . . . this fine, affecting film perfectly exemplifies Milton’s famous claim: ‘They also serve who only stand and wait.’” – Jeannette Catsoulis, The New York Times

National Air Date

The Way We Get By has its national broadcast premiere on the POV (Point of View) series on Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2009, at 9 p.m., in a special presentation on PBS. (Check local listings.) American television’s longest-running independent documentary series, POV is the recipient of a Special Emmy for Excellence in Television Documentary Filmmaking. The series’ 22nd season concludes on Wednesday Dec. 30, with the special presentation Patti Smith: Dream of Life.

The Film

On call 24 hours a day for the past five years, a group of senior citizens has made history by greeting more than 900,000 American troops at a tiny airport in Bangor, Maine. The Way We Get By, directed by Aron Gaudet and produced by Gita Pullapilly, is an intimate look at three of these greeters as they confront the universal losses that come with aging and rediscover their reason for living. Bill Knight, Jerry Mundy and Joan Gaudet find the strength to overcome their personal battles and transform their lives through service. This inspirational and surprising story shatters the stereotypes of today’s senior citizens as the greeters redefine the meaning of community.

The three subjects from The Way We Get By waiting at the airport. Jerry Mundy, Joan Gaudet, Bill Knight.

The Way We Get By takes a look behind the hearty smiles, handshakes, heartfelt thanks and free cookies and cell phones the greeters bring to the airport, and discovers a world in which the seniors are engaged in their own struggles with aging, disease, loneliness, memories of war and personal loss. The film reveals a remarkable symbiosis between the young soldiers’ fighting mission and the greeters’ fight to overcome infirmities and depression in making sure no soldier departs or returns without thanks. Regardless of their personal views about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the greeters, some of them veterans, turn out at all hours of the day and night to show their respect for the soldiers’ willingness to make sacrifices for the nation.

Recent Events

The Way We Get By screened on Capitol Hill on Sept. 30. The event, introduced by Dr. Jill Biden, was sponsored by Maine Senators Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins and Maine Representatives Michael Michaud and Chellie Pingree, and presented by the USO, Operation Homefront and HandsOn Network. Filmmakers Aron Gaudet and Gita Pullapilly and the film’s three subjects, Bill Knight, Jerry Mundy and Joan Gaudet, attended. The following evening, the film played at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., for military members and their families. Then on Oct. 2, the filmmakers and greeters had a chance to meet with Vice President Joe Biden during a special tour of the White House.

Filmmaker’s Statement

“This is a very personal story to me,” says director Aron Gaudet. “Calling home to talk to my 75-year-old mom used to be easy. With few friends and fewer hobbies, she was always there, and always sitting by the phone. Then, suddenly, I called and she wasn’t home. Day after day her phone rang and rang, but she didn’t ever pick up. When I finally got her on the phone and told her I’d had difficulty reaching her, she replied, ‘Well, you should try me on my cell phone.’ When had my mom gotten a cell phone? She explained that she was greeting troops at the airport, and it meant she had to be available to go there at all hours of the day and night, seven days a week, so she needed a cell.

“Witnessing firsthand how my mother’s life changed in such positive ways, while at the same time touching the lives of troops from all over the country, convinced me this was a story that could inspire people,” he continues. “I knew it could be a way to show the everyday struggles of senior citizens and an inspirational story of how these three seniors use a simple handshake to change their lives, and the lives of the 900,000-plus troops they’ve greeted.”

The Way We Get By has become even more personal for Aron, who will wed producer Gita Pullapilly in mid-October at The Retreat at French’s Point, Maine, thanks to the pro-bono organization Real Weddings Maine. How Aron and Gita met, and the way their entirely donated dream wedding came together, is a story in itself. Visit www.realweddingsmaine.com to find out more.

About the Filmmakers

Producer Gita Pullapilly and Director Aron Gaudet

Award-winning director and editor Aron Gaudet has worked on films in the United States, Jordan and India. In 2006, he attended the Sundance Producers Conference at the Sundance Institute with producer Gita Pullapilly for The Way We Get By, and they were subsequently named 2007-2008 WGBH Boston Filmmakers in Residence, where they worked on the film’s post-production. His other credits include “India: A New Life,” a WGBH-Frontline World production and winner of three Telly Awards, and the short film “OUCH!” (on the art of eyebrow threading). He has won numerous awards in television, including a total of eight Telly Awards, two Vermont Association of Broadcasters awards, a Michigan Association of Broadcasters award and two Emmy nominations.

A member of the International Documentary Association (IDA) and the Independent Feature Project (IFP), he is a graduate of the New England School of Communications. He grew up in Maine and recently moved to Brooklyn, NY, from Boston.

Gita Pullapilly is an award-winning television journalist and film producer who has produced films in the United States, Jordan and India and whose stories have aired on CBS, CNN and ABC. In 2006, she was selected as a participant in the Sundance Producers Conference at the Sundance Institute for The Way We Get By and in 2007 she was selected as a WGBH Filmmaker in Residence for the film. She was inducted into the Royal Society of the Arts in recognition of her work in film and television.

In addition to producing “India: A New Life,” Gita produced the Fulbright-funded film “Diary of a Refugee,” and was the first filmmaker chosen as a Fulbright Senior Scholar to Jordan. She was born and raised in South Bend, Ind., and graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a bachelor’s degree in finance and from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism with a master’s degree. She worked as a television reporter before making the switch to documentary filmmaking.

Gita is the recipient of a University of Notre Dame Asian American Alumni Association Exemplar Award, two Associated Press Awards, a Michigan Association of Broadcasters Award and a Northwestern University Scholarship for Outstanding Storytelling. She is a member of IFP in Chicago and New York, the IDA, Women in Film and Video and the Color of Film Collaborative. She recently moved from Boston to Brooklyn, NY.

The Greeters

On the day Bill found out he had cancer, he was still the first one to the airport. An eccentric World War II veteran, Bill knows firsthand what a thank you means to a soldier. When troops returned from Vietnam without any recognition for serving their country, Bill made a promise to never let it happen again. So now he executes each greeting with military precision, supporting the soldiers unconditionally.

Outside the airport, Bill’s life is spiraling out of control. While battling his spreading cancer, he is also drowning in financial debt. With time running out and creditors hounding him, Bill is forced to make a decision that will change his life forever.

Joan was afraid to go out after dark. Three knee operations forced her to use a walker, leaving her fearful of falling. After spending her life caring for her eight children, Joan was left living alone in an empty nest. But five years ago everything changed. Joan discovered troop greeting, and it quickly became an addiction. What she loves the most is learning about each soldier’s family. But as a mother and grandmother, she welcomes them home, but can never say goodbye. Joan has to confront her issues of letting go when she discovers her granddaughter Amy (30), a Blackhawk helicopter pilot, will soon be deployed to Iraq.

Jerry can usually be found parked near the airport runway. Sitting in his truck with his dog and best friend, Mr. Flannigan, he watches for troop planes overhead. When he spots one, if he’s fast enough, he can be inside the airport before the wheels touch the ground. With troop greeting, Jerry’s goal is simple-put a smile on each soldier’s face. This small act helps him cope with the tragic death of his son.

Haunted by these memories and facing unexplained heart problems, Jerry must come to terms with his own mortality following the sudden death of a close friend.

Bill Knight talking with a female soldier at the airport.

POV Website

The Way We Get By companion website, www.pbs.org/pov/waywegetby, offers a streaming video trailer of the film, an interview with the filmmakers, a list of related websites, organizations and books, lesson plans, discussion guides and special features including Aron Gaudet,  Jerry Mundy, Joan Gaudet and Bill Knight answering viewers’ questions on the PBS Engage blog, www.pbs.org/engage, during the week of Nov. 9.

DVD Release

The Way We Get By will be available for sale in time for the holidays at www.thewaywegetbymovie.com beginning Nov. 3, 2009 for $19.99.

Outreach

POV works with public television stations and national and community-based groups across the country to foster community dialogue around the issues presented in the film. For a list of upcoming screening and discussion events for The Way We Get By, go to: http://www.amdoc.org/outreach_news.php.

POV also works with nationally recognized media educator Dr. Faith Rogow to develop a discussion guide with background information to help event organizers carry out discussions around the film’s content. Cari Ladd has created the lesson plan. POV partners with librarians around the country to create multimedia resource lists of related books and videos that further explore the issues. The materials are available free of charge at www.pbs.org/pov/waywegetby.

Credits

Director/Editor:              Aron Gaudet
Producer:                           Gita Pullapilly
Executive Producer:     Warren Cook
Cinematographer:          Aron Gaudet and Dan Ferrigan
Original Music:                 Zack Martin

The Way We Get By is a co-production of Dungby Productions, the Independent Television Service (ITVS) and American Documentary, Inc. | POV, WGBH, Maine Public Broadcasting Network (MPBN) with funding provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB).

Awards 2009

Special Jury Award, South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival
Best Documentary, Audience Award Winner, Newport International Film Festival
Best Documentary, Atlanta Film Festival
Best Documentary, Little Rock Film Festival
Best Documentary, Phoenix Film Festival
Audience Award, Full Frame Documentary Festival
Standing Up Competition Winner, Cleveland International Film Festival
Eric Parker Social Justice Award, Indianapolis International Film Festival
Honorable Mention, Boston Independent Film Festival

Joan Gaudet gives a hug to a returning troop.

POV

Produced by American Documentary, Inc. and now in its 22nd season on PBS, the award-winning POV series is the longest-running showcase on American television to feature the work of today’s best independent documentary filmmakers. Airing June through September with primetime specials during the year, POV has brought more than 275 acclaimed documentaries to millions nationwide, and has a Webby Award-winning online series, POV’s Borders. Since 1988, POV has pioneered the art of presentation and outreach using independent nonfiction media to build new communities in conversation about today’s most pressing social issues. More information is available at www.pbs.org/pov.

Major funding for POV is provided by PBS, The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, The Educational Foundation of America, JPMorgan Chase Foundation, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, New York State Council on the Arts, Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, The September 11th Fund and public television viewers. Funding for POV’s Diverse Voices Project is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. Special support provided by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. POV is presented by a consortium of public television stations, including KCET Los Angeles, WGBH Boston and THIRTEEN in association with WNET.ORG.

Watch the trailer and learn more at http://www.pbs.org/pov/waywegetby/ and www.pbs.org/pov/pressroom.

The event includes live holiday entertainment, free holiday hay rides, a chance to win raffle prizes and a Tree Lighting ceremony with Santa Claus, and exclusive sales and discounts at the stores.

VIP tickets for $10 each are also available with 100% of the ticket sale proceeds going directly to participating charities including The Wellness Community, Walk with Sally, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Tree Musketeers, South Bay Police and Fire Memorial Foundation and many more.

VIP ticket holders receive extra perks including a free children’s craft activity, one free photo with Santa, a free cup of coffee or hot cocoa and one free raffle ticket.

Call in advance to purchase VIP $10 tickets: 310-647-3431, or purchase at the event.

Date: Friday, November 20, 2009 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

-  Tree Lighting with Santa is at 7:00pm

Location:  Plaza El Segundo

At Plaza El Segundo, shoppers experience inspiring fashion retailers like Anthropologie, BCBGMAXAZRIA and bebe.

Specialty boutiques including m. frederic Women, Claudia Milan, Happy Six and Varga entice imaginations, while  i Medspa, Temptress, Vicara Aveda Salonspa and MAC Cosmetics offer the most sought-after beauty products and services.

Some of L.A.’s best-noted restaurants are right in the shopping center — The Counter, La Sirena Grill & Cantina, Marmalade Café, Salt Greek Grille, and The Veggie Grill – and offer celebrated menus.

The center’s popular treat hot spots — pinkberry, Melt Gelato & Crepe Café, and Starbucks – give customers quick pick-me-ups.

And even the most discerning shoppers can shop smart at super retailers including Whole Foods Market, Cost Plus World Market, Borders, Best Buy and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Located on Sepulveda Blvd. just north Rosecrans in Manhattan Beach,  in El Segundo, CA.

THRILLER NIGHT- The Official “Thriller” Tribute Halloween Party Featuring Frightening Haunted Displays From Oscar-Winning, Special Effects Studio, Drac Studios, Saturday, October 31, at Dakota Lounge in Santa Monica

Also Featuring Celebrity DJ Casey Connor Spinning The Hottest Music And Michael Jackson Tributes Throughout The Night

THRILLER NIGHT- The Official “Thriller” Halloween Party featuring spooky haunted displays by Oscar- winning special effects studio, Drac Studios on Saturday, October 31st  at Dakota Lounge in Santa Monica. Guests are invited to dress in their best costumes, drink bloody concoctions and dance the night away to the sounds of celebrity DJ Casey Connor spinning the hottest music and MJ tributes throughout the night. The evening will also include MJ Dance -Offs, Costume Contests, Huge Prizes, and Bloody Drink Specials. $3 Drink Specials from 9-10pm. Costume contests include Best Michael, Best Zombie, Sexiest, Scariest and Most Original.

Location:

Dakota Live Music Lounge, 1026 Wilshire Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Cross  Street is 11th) Phone: 310-393-8200 www.dakotalounge.com            

Saturday, October 31st, 2009  9pm-2am

$10.00 with costume, $15.00 without costume.

(21 +) Dinner and group reservations available. Call 310-393-8200 to request a list of table/bottle packages and reserve a VIP table.

CASEY CONNOR

Casey Connor is an internationally recognized celebrity DJ/Entertainer, highly sought after by an impressive collection of A-list clientele. Her dynamic approach to the turntables has given her a coveted celebrity following. Casey brings a fresh, feminine perspective to the events she DJ’s for. Her A-list clientele including Madonna, Britney Spears, Donald Trump, Paris Hilton, Kanye West, P. Diddy, Robert Deniro, Jennifer Lopez and a never ending list of  brands such as MAC cosmetics, Playboy, Maxim and Apple has vaulted Casey into exclusive company within the industry. Her innovative and self-styled manner of DJing constitutes more than spinning records. It is an all inclusive performance in which Casey showcases her talents as an entertainer in a fashion that goes beyond her skills at the turntables and takes pride of being one of the industry’s most sought after “performance DJ’s”. For more info go to www.caseyconnor.com.

DAKOTA LOUNGE

In less than a year, Dakota Live Music Lounge has made its mark on this legendary location becoming the premiere live music venue and entertainment facility on the Westside. Voted the “Best Happy Hour” by LA Weekly, Dakota hosts live music and DJ entertainment nightly. Dakota is home to the best in rock, indie, acoustic, Latin, hip-hop and dance music with national recording artists such as GRAMMY®-award winning R&B/soul songstress Janelle Monae, Shooter Jennings and Matisyahu as well as underground DJs ?uestlove, Flying Lotus, Peanut Butter Wolf having already graced the stage. Head chef, Dave Hutcheon, caters to all-types of diners with his American-Hawaiian style tapas served until 1AM . A brand new décor, a rockin’ music lineup, stiff drinks and late night menu, make Dakota Lounge home to live music lovers, foodies, and neighborhood friends looking for a place to chill, listen to great music, dine or dance. For more information, to book your band or host your next event visit www.dakotalounge.com.

DRAC STUDIOS

The Academy Award-winning make up and special effects company that features the incredible work of Todd Tucker, Harvey Lowry, Greg Cannom, and the other creative artists. Drac is responsible for changing Gary Oldman into Dracula, turning Robin Williams into a grandmotherly matron, aging Russell Crowe into a senior citizen, and changing the Wayans Brothers into hot white woman. As Hollywood’s largest effects studio, Drac Studios biggest accomplishments include The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Mrs. Doubtfire, Hannibal, Ocean’s 11-13, Pirates of the Caribean, The Passion of The Christ, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Titanic, Ali, Scary Movie, Batman, Batman Returns, Van Helsing, and Night at the Museum 2 to name a few. For more info go to www.dracstudios.com. Check out more info here…

Master Chef Roy

Roy Yamaguchi, winner of the prestigious James Beard Award and former contestant on Top Chef Masters and Iron Chef, and Moët & Chandon have collaborated to bring foodies and bubble lovers alike a one-night only dining experience available at all 27 Roy’s mainland locations.

Bubbly Fun

The complementary pairing of sushi and champagne, a deliciously kept secret in the culinary world, is now available in a sensual dining experience which includes three courses of sushi, a Waygu beef entrée and dessert. Moët champagnes, including Moët Impérial, Moët Rosé Impérial, Moët Nectar Impérial and Moët Grand Vintage 2000, have been expertly paired to complement each course. The evening will begin with the Moët & Chandon Impérial “POG” Cocktail – a delicious passion fruit, orange and guava mimosa. The limited dining experience is available by reservation only for $75 plus tax & gratuity, which includes Moet & Chandon champagnes.

The sushi and champagne pairing is available at these four locations throughout Los Angeles:

Roy’s Los Angeles
800 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017

Roy’s Pasadena
641 East Colorado Boulevard
Pasadena, CA 91101

Roy’s Woodland Hills
6363 Topanga Canyon Boulevard
Woodland Hills, CA 91367

Roy’s Anaheim
321 West Katella Avenue
Anaheim, CA 92802

For reservations for this fantastic foodie evening: Los Angeles – (213) 488-4994 or Pasadena – (626) 356-4066, Woodland Hills – (818) 888-4801, Anaheim – (714) 776-7697

For more info visit:  http://www.roysrestaurant.com/

Run 4 Her Life 5k / 10k for Breast Cancer Research will take place on Sunday, October 18, 2009 at 8:00 a.m. and feature a live musical performance by GRAMMY® award-winning recording artist and “Dancing With The Stars” contestant, Mýa. Registration fee is $35 in advance and $45 day of and includes a custom designed Affliction/Run 4 Her Life t-shirt ($82 value), gift bag and all event festivities, including entrance to the concert.  Team and Groups are also encouraged to participate.  Please visit www.Run4HerLife.com for additional details and to register.

The Americana at Brand, located in the heart of downtown Glendale, will offer entrants and guests a variety of live entertainment, expo and post-event party. In addition to the competitive 5k / 10k races the event also offers a 5k Family Fun Run / Walk. “Caruso Affiliated is honored to support this inaugural event and its critical mission of funding for breast cancer research. Our team is working hard to ensure that it also will be a delightful day for the entire family,” said Rick Caruso, president and CEO, Caruso Affiliated.

To get in shape for the October 2009 Race, lululemon athletica Glendale will conduct complimentary Sunday morning fitness classes at The Americana at Brand designed to improve your running while offering tips, motivation and camaraderie.  Located on two acres in downtown Glendale, The Americana at Brand is LAs newest shopping and dining destination developed by Caruso Affiliated. With residences built atop the shops and restaurants, race entrants will have a built in audience and cheering section at the start and finish lines.

Funds raised will support local California research at USC/Norris Lee Breast Center, USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Michael Press, MD. PhD. and National Research. Grants are awarded as deemed by our Medical Advisory Board to have the most significance in the etiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer.

“We are grateful to be a part of this event to raise funds for breast cancer research,” said Michael Press, M.D., Ph.D., professor of pathology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and the Harold E. Lee Chair for Cancer Research at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. “As we learn more about the molecular and genetic causes of breast cancer, we are positioned to attack this deadly disease at its origin and to prevent its development in thousands of women.”

Run 4 Her Life is green, breaking new ground with the worlds-first Eco-friendly Running Bib. The focus of Karin Purvis, Race Director, and Founder of ‘Run 4 Her Life’ and ‘Cure in the Canyons’ is to facilitate a healthy, eco-friendly race, allowing runners to participate in a “green” event. As a tribute to breast cancer research, emediagroup is providing bib numbers made from seed paper, which entrants can plant after the event and will bloom Black-Eyed Susan’s creating a lasting memory.  By combining breast cancer research awareness and environmentally friendly materials, emediagroup is proud to participate in this unique event.

Run 4 Her Life will feature live musical performances by Mýa, The Quiet, Lili Haydn, Jordan Johnson, and Margie Hauser and an interactive family friendly expo with 15 cabanas including Glendale Hospital offering orthopedic therapy consultations, and Katsuya and ONEHOPE Wine who will be hosting the VIP celebrity lounge.  The Nesquik Bunny will be greeting runners at the expo and plans to run the 5k as well!

Grammy Award® winning multi-platinum artist Mýa, became a star at the age of 18 with her eponymous debut album which yielded three Top-10 singles. In addition to releasing five full length albums, one of which went platinum and another, gold, she tangoed her way into our hearts in the acclaimed film Chicago. Mýa is currently a popular contestant on the hit TV show “Dancing With The Stars”!

As a philanthropist, Mýa continues to devote her time and resources to various causes. From 1998 to 2001, she became the spokesperson for Secret to Self Esteem. In 2005, Mýa founded TMATF: The Mya Arts & Tech Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing disadvantaged youth growth and opportunity through arts & technology education, where she serves as both executive director and teacher. Mýa is also an advocate of breast cancer as her mother is a 10 year survivor. In 2006 & 2007 she collaborated with the Lifetime Television Network in the Stop Breast Cancer for Life campaign, recording “My Bra” a song sold on iTunes donating 100% of proceeds to breast cancer research.

Sponsors include Affliction, ONEHOPE Wine, lululemon, Luna Bars, Katsuya, Paul Mitchell, Icy Hot, Gold Bond, Lange Productions, Alacer, Pop Chips, Power Bars, Powerade, Glaceau Smart Water, Emergen- C, Nesquik, Queasy Pops, Capco Labs Foot Cream, Hypoxy and Dole.

Your favorite online sample sale, Billion Dollar Babes, returns to its hometown roots. Come early, this gets very busy!

Dates/Times:

Friday November 6 (VIP – noon-9pm)

Saturday November 7 (9am-5pm)

Billion Dollar Babes, the world’s premier designer sale, returns to Los Angeles. Shop over 40 fashion and beauty brands with savings of up to 85% — as well as cocktails, DJs and a Beauty Bar with complimentary treatments.

Location:

Petersen Automotive Museum

6060 Wilshire Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90036

RSVP

http://www.billiondollarbabes.com/events.html

On Thursday, October 22, Velvet Grip Family tattoo studio (www.velvetgripfamily.com) and owner, Todd Sorensen, will play host to Los Angeles’ tattoo industry elite, art lovers and fashionistas, at an exclusive art opening reception for what will be a month-long group showing of multiple Los Angeles artists. The event, which sits right in the midst of Los Angeles Fashion “Month”, will also feature an innovative fashion installation by Junker Designs. A portion of the proceeds of sales of the artwork will benefit local charity, Art Share LA.

The month-long art exhibit, to be housed in the Velvet Grip Family tattoo studio space through November 18, will feature pieces by eight local artists: Velvet Grip Family owner, Todd Sorensen; AXIS; Joby Cummings; Konstantin; Kilby Rodell; Mike Nite; Mike Bowman; and a skateboard installation by Sector 9 pro-skater, Dave Hatton.

The Junker Designs fashion installation will be on view during the October 22 opening reception, and will feature “live mannequins” spaced throughout the studio. This installation will be Junker Designs’ only Los Angeles Fashion “Month” event.

“I’m all for promoting local talent – be it fashion design, art or music – and I’m thrilled to be able to support the future Los Angeles artist community,” says Todd Sorensen, Velvet Grip Family owner and tattoo industry veteran, of the partnership with Art Share LA.

Guests at the October 22 exhibit opening event will also enjoy live performances by local, cult-favorite DJs McEscher and jMotion, as well as a fully-hosted bar, and appetizers courtesy of Jones Hollywood. Media coverage of the event will be provided by Tattoo:Savage Magazine, who will be on-hand to shoot the art on the walls, as well as the art on event guests. The October 22 event is sponsored in part by Industrial Strength and Brandon Bond.

Velvet Grip Family tattoo studio is located at 7213½ Santa Monica Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA, 90046. Appointments can be made by calling (323) 876-5048. More information on each of the exhibit’s artists, can be found at: www.velvetgripfamily.com. To RSVP for the October 22 art opening and Junker Designs fashion installation, please email: info@stilettomarketing.com.

About Velvet Grip Family

Known for his excellent customer care and the bond that he forms with his clients – which keeps them coming back, time and time again – Velvet Grip Family owner, Todd Sorensen, has been able to establish quite the famous following. With the newest remodel of his 1,700 s.f. West Hollywood studio, he has created an amazing space with a vibe unlike most tattoo shops. The paint scheme, exposed brick, leather and wood furnishings, ambient lighting, tranquil Koi fish pond and artsy architecture were thought out to the very last detail, all by none other than Sorensen, himself.

Velvet Grip Family counts amongst its fans and clients the likes of Kiefer Sutherland, Hugh Laurie (”House”), Drew Barrymore, Mark McGrath, Tommy Lee, “Young Hollywood” celeb offspring such as Al Pacino’s daughter, and many more famous faces (and bodies).Sorensen’s fans and following are so devoted to Velvet Grip Family that in a recent, more intimate five-year anniversary celebration, more than 30 of his clients opted to have the Velvet Grip Family logo permanently tattooed onto their bodies.

Sorensen, known in the tattoo industry as “The Todd”, is an industry veteran and an unmistakable talent, in and of himself. Sorensen, as well as his and his talented staff’s work, has been featured on numerous TV shows and has been covered by the media many times, including appearances on/in: “Fear Factor”, “Freaks & Geeks”, “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!”, MTV, G4tv, the Discovery Channel, TNN, the “Oblivious” show, “Guinness Book of World Records”, Tattoo Magazine, Savage Magazine, Tattoo Revue, International Tattoo Art, Skin Art Magazine, Varla Magazine and Bizarre Magazine.

Velvet Grip Family Owner, Todd Sorensen, is available for interviews and/or comment, as well as public appearances, as an expert in the art of tattooing and body modification. For more information on Sorensen and his studio, visit: www.velvetgripfamily.com.

About Junker Designs

Los Angeles-based Junker Designs makes one-of-a-kind, hand-made clothing from denim, leather, and pretty much anything else that the label’s designers – who hail from Texas and Florida – can acquire. They overdye, paint, mutate, bury, or otherwise ravage each and every edgy, rocker-chic piece.

Junker Designs’ fans and clients include the likes of Alice Cooper, Nikki Sixx, Dave Navarro, Tommy Lee, Billy Morrison, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Richie Sambora, Prince, Lenny Kravitz, Bon Jovi, Buckcherry, Motley Crue, Pink, Paris Hilton, Christina Aguilera, John Cusack, Puddle of Mudd, Shakira, Poison, Johnny Depp, Carmen Electra, Britney Spears, Steven Tyler, Weezer and Insane Clown Posse, to name just a few. For more information on Junker Designs, please visit: www.junkerdesigns.com.

About Art Share LA

Boasting a 90% high school graduation rate, Art Share Los Angeles offers a free, multi-disciplinary art program, changing the lives of underserved teens. Through the collaborative work of instructors, social workers, and volunteers, the center operates during peak violence hours. It not only provides a safe haven for creative expression, but also offers a starting point for emerging artists, space for gallery shows, and low-income housing for artists. With 30,000 square feet of renovated warehouse space in the Downtown Artist District, Art Share Los Angeles serves as a community arts incubator, promoting cultural excellence and shaping lives through, art, education and community action. For more information on Art Share LA, please visit: www.artsharela.org.

THE JENNIFER DIAMOND CANCER FOUNDATION 7TH ANNUAL GALA HONORS FREDERICK FRANK, BEVERLYE HYMAN FEAD AND AMGEN
 
On October 25, 2009, the Jennifer Diamond Cancer Foundation will pay tribute to two distinguished people who have positively impacted those who live in a world changed by cancer, and a company whose strides are making a very important difference in cancer research
 
Frederick Frank is arguably one of the most influential people in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. He is credited as the leading investment banker worldwide for pharmaceutical company mergers, acquisitions and equity fund raising. Currently on the Board of Directors of PDL BioPharma and a consultant to Sinapsis Pharma, Inc., he is simultaneously Vice Chairman of Peter J. Solomon Company, forging some of the most innovative and vital financing, strategic alliances and acquisitions in the pharma and healthcare arenas. His credits are too many to mention, however he is a Chartered Financial Analyst, member of The New York Society of Security Analysts and a past President of the Chemical Processing Industry Analysts. He serves as Director and Chairman of the Board of Epix Pharmaceuticals, Chairman of the Board of the Irvington Institute for Immunological Research and sits on the Advisory Boards of The Harvard School of Public Health, the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Center for Biomedical Innovation, to name a few.  With the help of his expertise, there have been dramatic advances in cancer research. The Jennifer Diamond Cancer Foundation is honored to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr. Frank at the Gala.
 
Amgen discovers, develops and delivers innovative human therapeutics. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen was one of the first companies to realize the new science’s promise.  Amgen therapeutics have changed the practice of medicine, helping millions of people in the fight against cancer, amongst other serious illnesses with a broad and deep pipeline of potential new medicines. The company’s state-of-the-art complex biotechnology manufacturing and development processes using living organisms help them to realize the potential of their biotechnological medicines and have made them a leader in the field.
 
Their outstanding track record of regulatory compliance, thanks to stringent controls and a superior quality system, allows them to continue to innovate newer and more efficient ways to produce therapies using biotechnology. Most importantly, Amgen has a track record of safely and reliably delivering medicines to patients who need them. For that reason,  Amgen will  receive the “Triumph Award.”
 
As an author and activist, cancer survivor Beverlye Hyman Fead has been an inspiration to tens of thousands of people who have read I Can Do This: Living with Cancer, Tracing a Year of Hope and Nana, What’s Cancer? In 2002 she was given two months to live. A survivor of Stage IV cancer as a result of experimental treatment, she shares her story of hope in many ways. She is an ambassador for the American Cancer Society’s Celebration on the Hill, and participated in the educational DVD Breast Cancer: The Path to Wellness and Healing. She has personally raised in excess of $1 million for cancer research. Beverlye will receive the “Gift of Life Award” from the Jennifer Diamond Foundation.
 
In the same year as Beverlye was diagnosed, Jennifer Diamond was not as fortunate. She succumbed to a rare untreatable form of cancer at only 30 years old. Knowing her fate, she still found it necessary to help others by encouraging her parents to provide needed information that was otherwise unavailable or simply too difficult to find. A few days before Jenn passed away, she signed the papers forming The Jennifer Diamond Foundation. The mission statement reads: “The Jennifer Diamond Foundation is dedicated to helping people win the fight against all forms of cancer. We are focused on empowering people with knowledge, as well as supporting research and healing programs that provide the tools to help treat the mind and body as one.”
 
In the short time since the Foundation was formed, under the passionate guidance of Alice and Harvey, seven Jennifer Diamond Cancer Resource Libraries have been donated to facilities in southern and central California: The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura, weSpark Cancer Support Center, Gilda’s Club Desert Cities, St John’s Hospital in Camarillo, The Wellness Community Santa Monica, the Hearst Cancer Research Center at French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo and USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, with more planned over the next year and hopes of expanding to other geographical areas in time. In addition to the libraries, the Foundation has funded children’s programs including The Wellness Center’s Kids Circle Program.
 
The Annual Gala is the Jennifer Diamond Foundation’s largest fundraising effort of the year. It takes place this year on October 25 at the Skirball Center in Los Angeles, with Master of Ceremonies Chris Schauble, NBC News anchor.  The evening will be hosted by Lee Marshall, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Disc Jockey.  The honorary committee includes Neil Diamond, Lainie Kazan, Peter Greenberg, Telma Hopkins, Ed Begley,Jr., Mare Winningham, Norm Crosby and Mindy Sterling. The event, featuring the “Walk Like a Man” musical review, is open to the public. Tickets are $250 each.
 
For information: (818) 700-6900 or alice@jenniferdiamondfoundation.com.

Master of Ceremonies:  Chris Schauble, “Today in LA” (NBC) co-anchor and Hosted by Lee Marshall, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Disk Jockey.

The honorary committee includes Neil Diamond, Scott Hamilton,  Lainie Kazan, Peter Greenberg, Telma Hopkins, Ed Begley, Jr., Mare Winningham, Norm Crosby and Mindy Sterling.  Honorees are author, cancer activist, motivational speaker Beverly Hyman Fead, renowned biotech giant Frederick Frank and Amgen for its strides in the treatment of cancer.

Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles

Open to public — $250 per person includes dinner, and entertainment by WALK LIKE A MAN

For ticket information, (818) 700-6900 or alice@jenniferdiamondfoundation.org.

10 a.m. – Welcome and Cast Introductions

10:30 a.m. – “Meet & Greet” with the Stars

12:30 p.m. – Lunch Break

1:45 p.m. – “Meet & Greet” with the Stars

4:15 p.m. – Q&A Panel with the Stars

Meet all your favorite Days of our Lives stars, including:

Kristian Alfonso, John Aniston, Nadia Bjorlin , Molly Burnett , Shawn Christian , Bryan Dattilo, Casey Deidrick, Galen Gering, Mark Hapka, Lindsay Hartley Shelley Hennig, Jay Kenneth Johnson, Renee Jones, Lauren Koslow, Eric Martsolf, Joe Mascolo, Peggy McCay, Dylan Patton, Peter Reckell, Jim Reynolds Suzanne Rogers, James Scott, Taylor Spreitler, Alison Sweeney, Josh Taylor Arianne Zucker.

For more information on the event please visit them here..

Shrills, chills and thrills were had at the Chiller Eyegore Awards and opening night at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights.  Hosted by actor Cory Feldman, the awards show honored the people who scare us the best. The opening night event at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights kicked off its 16-night run on Friday, October 2.

Actors Tobin Bell and Noah Segan joined Oscar®-winning special effects makeup artist Rick Baker as honorees at Chiller Eyegore Awards. Tanedra Howard, co-star of “Saw VI”, an actress who won her role as part of a TV “Scream Queen” competition, presented a “Best Villain” trophy to the “Saw” series’ veteran star Tobin Bell.  Actress Danielle Harrison presented Rob Zombie with his “Filmmaker of the Year” award.

Director Rob Zombie celebrating with presenter Danielle Harrison.

Director Rob Zombie,

Eyegore Awards

Rob Zombie has emerged as the horror genre’s leading auteur with such films as his recent “Halloween II.” Tobin Bell’s character, Jigsaw, has gathered a huge audience for the “Saw” franchise and Noah Segan’s performance in “Deadgirl” has become a cult favorite. They will be honored in the categories of “Filmmaker of the Year,” “Best Villain” and “Best Villain in a Film Series” at the ceremony, was hosted by the silver pin-striped suit clad Corey Feldman and televised as interstitial programming by Chiller.

Tanedra Howard from Saw VI and Tobin Bell as Saw's Jigsaw.

Rick Baker recently worked on Universal Pictures’ “The Wolfman,” which opens nationwide on February 12, 2010.  Baker was responsible for the incredible transformation of Michael Jackson in his smash hit video, “Thriller”, along with a long history of masterful makeup accomplishments in film and TV. Baker will be honored with the “Jack Pierce – Lifetime Achievement Award.”

This year, Universal Studios Hollywood partnered with Chiller in the presentation of the newly expanded Chiller-Eyegore Awards, which will be broadcast on Chiller later in October. Previous Eyegore Award recipients have included Alice Cooper, Patricia Arquette, Janet Leigh, Roger Corman, Jennifer Tilly, Joss Whedon, Rob Zombie, Karen Black, Clive Barker, Julie Benz, Shawnee Smith, Sherri Moon Zombie, Tobe Hooper, Bill Moseley and Corey Feldman.

Who’s the Scariest?

Chiller and Universal Studios Hollywood have also partnered to sponsor the “Halloween Horror Nights-Chiller Scary Good Film Competition,” offering filmmakers an opportunity to have their scariest short film rewarded with a broadcast on Chiller of their work, a $1,000 cash prize and a trip for two to the Chiller Eyegore Awards ceremony, where their film will be honored as part of the event.  The ten finalist films can be viewed at http://www.halloweenhorrornights.com/Chiller.

Best Halloween Frights

Sure to scare the living daylights out of you…this year’s all-new “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood features four new maze experiences including “Saw: Game Over”,  “Halloween: The Life and Crimes of Michael Myers”, “My Bloody Valentine: Be Mine 4 Ever,” and “Chucky’s Funhouse,” six new “scare zones,” a new live stage performance of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show:  A Tribute”, as well as a fully re-imagined “Terror Tram” backlot studio experience complete with a real airplane wreckage, Norman Bates’ house and a neighborhood that looks like a bomb just went off with “Night of the Living Dead” type characters jumping out of the dark every step of the way.  The all-new “Halloween Horror Nights” for 2009 is the most terrifying “live” horror event ever to be presented in a theme park environment.

Around every corner at Universal's Horror Nights is a ghoul waiting to get you!

Universal’s Horror Nights

“Halloween Horror Nights” will continue on consecutive weekends and selected weekday nights through Halloween, Saturday, October 31.  Event dates are: October 9-11, 15-18, 23-25, 28-31.  The event will begin nightly at 7:00 p.m.; closing hours vary by night throughout the event.  Tickets are now on sale at www.universalstudioshollywood.com/hhn.

Just one of the things you have to survive in the Halloween mazes at Universal.

New Chiller Channel

Chiller, the recently-launched channel from NBC Universal, is the only network devoted to delivering viewers round-the-clock scares.  Chiller’s eclectic slate of adrenaline-fueled, soul-stirring entertainment includes classic drama and anthology series (“Tales from the Darkside,” “Twin Peaks,” “Nightmare Café”), international programming (“Spine Chillers,”  “Strange”) and a broad offering of films, including feature-length premieres on the first Friday of each month.  Chiller is currently available in nearly 34 million homes.  To learn more, visit: http://www.chillertv.com/.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is a unit of Universal Parks & Resorts, a division of NBC Universal. NBC Universal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience.  Formed in May of 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks.  NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric, with 20% controlled by Vivendi.

Photos by: Joel Lugavere (Universal Studios Hollywood)

Written by Henry Jaglom. Directed by Gary Imhoff. Stars Tanna Frederick; also starring Julie Davis, David Garver, Jack Heller, David Proval, Diane Louise Salinger, and Harriet Schock. Produced by Alexandra Guarnieri.
                 
The Isaacs are a mostly Jewish extended family (there’s a little Irish, Italian and some Chickasaw thrown into the mix) of actors. George Isaacs (AKA Grisha), the patriarch, had been a third-generation star of the Yiddish theatre in his youth, before “crossing over” into English-speaking theatre as he grew up. His wife, Vivien Cooper, had also been a successful stage actress, but now mostly stays at home and looks after George. Vivien’s brother, Larry Cooper, is in a nearby dinner-theatre production of “Guys and Dolls” and therefore staying at the Isaacs’ house as well. Times are tough and theatre jobs are few, so they’ve also taken in a boarder, Sally Brooks, a fading character actress.
                 
George and Vivien have two grown daughters. Pandora (Panda), the younger, is happy she was born in a trunk and has gotten to live the actor’s life. But she has moved back into her parents’ crumbling home, just 45 minutes from Broadway, after a long-term romance collapses, the latest of several failed love affairs. Betsy hates showbiz and is uncomfortable with its inhabitants, and moved away to become successful as a “civilian”. She brings home her fiancé, Jimmy Halkin, to meet the family. Also a successful businessman (”mostly in real estate”), Jimmy is as seemingly normal as her family members are “weird”. That’s how Betsy sees them. She’s in for a surprise.
                 
They are all in for surprises. Betsy has been making plans that will affect all their lives, and not with their consent. Jimmy is not who he seems to be. He is surprised to find himself drawn to Panda’s genuineness and her determination to live life on her own terms. She’s also a ravishingly beautiful redhead. Uh oh!

Playwright Henry Jaglom’s other plays include the award-winning “Room 322″, “A Safe Place” — his debut theatre piece first written for the Actors’ Studio, later made into a film with Jack Nicholson, Tuesday Weld and Orson Welles—and “Always…But Not Forever,” his adaptation of his 1985 film of the same name (which premiered last year at the Edgemar). He is most known as a celebrated auteur of films that put women front and center (bucking the Hollywood trend) and that contain many scenes of people engaging in intelligent conversation (also defying Hollywood fashion). His movies as a writer and director include the current “Irene in Time,” “Hollywood Dreams,” “Deja Vu,” “Last Summer in the Hamptons,” “Someone to Love,” “Venice/Venice,” “Festival in Cannes,” and “Eating.”

Tanna Frederick stars as Panda. She is also the star of two Jaglom films, “Hollywood Dreams” and “Irene in Time” for which she has won rave reviews. She recently completed principal photography on Jaglom’s “Queen of the Lot” opposite Noah Wyle and Chris Rydell, which will be released next year.

Her stage credits include roles in “Always… But Not Forever” (last year at the Edgemar Center for the Arts), “A Safe Place” N. Richard Nash’s “Echoes,” “Toussaint: For The Love Of Freedom,” “Why We Have A Body,” “The Maids,” and more. Tanna was awarded the 2009 Maverick Award by the Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival. Also engaged in philanthropic pursuits, she is co-founder of “Project Save Our Surf” and founder of the Iowa Independent Film Festival.

Co-starring with Ms. Frederick in “Just 45 Minutes From Broadway” are an extraordinary roster of theatre artists: Julie Davis, David Garver, Jack Heller, David Proval, Diane Salinger and Harriet Schock, each boasting extraordinary credits of his or her own.

Gary Imhoff directs the new play. His other directing credits include the plays “Always….But Not Forever,” “The Devil and Daniel Webster” and  “The Dearly Departed,” as well as the upcoming films “Break,” “Scottish Dreams,” and “Wildflower.”

Also an actor, he portrayed Charlie Brown in the original production of “Snoopy!,” starred in “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” (L.A. and N.Y.), “Assassins” (West Coast Premiere), often appeared in films and frequently in television episodes of “Falcon Crest” and “Eight Is Enough.”

Edgemar Center For the Arts, on the Main Stage, 2437 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90405. Parking is available (fee charged) in an onsite structure, and metered parking is available in nearby Lot 11, across the street from Peet’s Coffee.

Dates and Times

Show times:  Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 5 p.m.

Dark Thanksgiving Weekend, November 26 – 29.

Closes Sunday, December 20.

Admission: $25.
Reservations: (310) 392-7327.
Online ticketing: www.edgemarcenter.org

Legions of Hollywood insiders and fans will flood the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel Saturday, October 10 through Monday, October 12 for The Hollywood Studio Collection’s movie studio clothing sample sale of the year.  Thousands of wardrobe pieces from various movie sets will be sold during the three-day event that consists of both vintage and contemporary clothing, shoes, décor, accessories and props that have been used by some of today and yesteryear’s hottest and most influential movie stars and blockbuster films.

President of The Hollywood Studio Collection and Emmy-Award winning producer and filmmaker James Ronald Whitney is opening this extensive collection to the public for a one-time offering during the three-day sale.  Many of the spectacular collectible items will be available at an incredible price.  The Hollywood Studio Collection will donate a portion of the proceeds to Childhelp USA, one of the world’s largest organizations that aid victims of child abuse and neglect, as well as a number of other child advocacy charities that are in need of funding.

“Childhelp USA is a tremendous foundation,” said Whitney.  “I have championed their efforts since they sponsored my first film ‘Just, Melvin’ at the Sundance Film Festival.  I am thrilled to be working hand-in-hand with them once again.”

“We are very grateful for the continuing support of Mr. Whitney and The Hollywood Studio Collection,” according to John Reid, Executive Director of Childhelp USA.  “Through wonderful organizations such as this, Childhelp USA can continue to help the many victims of child abuse and neglect.”

The sample sale will offer rare and one-of-a-kind items that would normally be sold for thousands of dollars, for as little as $10.  The pieces included in the sample sale are considered to be “unidentified,” which means that neither the film nor the actor associated with the motion picture has yet been researched and identified.

“This is part of the excitement,” continued Whitney.  “For the first time ever, both the fans and the general public can play researcher.  Maybe they’ll find the dress shirt worn by Tom Cruise in the infamous scene in ‘Risky Business’ or the sneakers Kevin Bacon debuted in ‘Footloose.’ The thrill is to purchase an item at a great price, only to later discover that it’s worth significantly more!”

The Hollywood Studio Collection movie wardrobe sale takes place Saturday, October 10 through Monday, October 12 over the Columbus Day Weekend from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the appropriately chosen Oscar Room on the second level of the famed Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, located at 7000 Hollywood Blvd., across from the world-famous Grauman’s Chinese Theater. Admission to this once-in-a-lifetime event is only $5, which includes a red-carpet sneak peek at some of the prized possessions in Vault  #4 of The Hollywood Studio Collection. Guests who purchase items that are $15 or more can present their receipt for validation and refund of entry fee.  For more information, visit www.TheHollywoodStudioCollection.com or call (818) 812-6068.

The best of the best come together. Participating Chefs from last year.

Spearheaded by top sponsors Audi (www.audiusa.com) and MasterCard (www.mastercard.com), The American Wine & Food Festival is an exercise in culinary expertise that promises a riveting weekend full of feasting and fundraising.

Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation

Since its inception in 1982, the Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation has supported the American Wine & Food Festival, raising more than $15 million for Los Angeles Chapters of Meals On Wheels. Meals On Wheels serves thousands of meals each day to Los Angeles’ homebound senior and disabled citizens.

On Tap for the Weekend

The Festival features a spectacular spread of delectable dishes, superb libations, fantasy auction items and amazing entertainment in three events, each offering a different level of participation for culinary connoisseurs to contribute to the cause.

Friday’s Red Hot @ Red Seven Kickoff Event

Leading off the festivities is the Red Hot @ Red Seven Kickoff Event, which begins on Friday, October 2nd at 7 p.m. Red Seven by Wolfgang Puck at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood will host the activities as festival newcomers and veterans will be treated to chic eats and innovative libations in an intimate lounge setting. Red Hot @ Red Seven Kickoff Event offers the chance to mingle with a virtual cornucopia of Angelenos; from philanthropists to foodies and unknowns to unmistakable personalities.

Friday Evening Event tickets are available for $150 per person. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.AWFF.org. Please call (310) 777-3707 for location and directions after September 4.

Saturday at Universal Studios

Like a seven course meal, The 2009 American Wine & Food Festival gets more delicious with every serving of fun. On Saturday, the action begins at 5:00 pm with the Wolfgang Puck VIP Cooking Demonstration. It’s a VIP entrance only event and is available by purchasing tickets through Festival Patron and MasterCard Promotions.

The AWFF opens at 6:00 p.m., staged against the backdrop of the famous movie sets in the Universal Studios Back Lot. Events include an unrivaled epicurean feast prepared by world-renowned chefs, superb libations including fine wines and smooth spirits, and a silent auction filled with luxury items. For those who like to eat to a beat, all of the festivities will be accompanied by the swinging sounds of live bands.

Saturday Evening Event tickets are available for $300 per person. Table reservations are available from $3,500. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.AWFF.org.

Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner

Spago Beverly Hills is the locale for Sunday’s finale, with events beginning on October 4th at 6:00 p.m. Wolfgang Puck, Lee Hefter & Barbara Lazaroff with Chef de Cuisine Thomas Boyce & Executive Pastry Chef Sherry Yard welcome several of the world’s finest chefs to prepare an elegant six-course dinner at the 10th Annual Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner. This limited-seating event at Spago Beverly Hills is filled with exquisite dishes paired with select wines and a live auction featuring one-of-a-kind items and experiences.

Celebrity chefs Thomas Keller of Bouchon; Dean Fearing of Fearing’s at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas; Jereme Leung of Jereme Leung Creative Concepts Pte Ltd; Laurent Gras of L2O; Nobu Matsuhisa of Matsuhisa & Nobu LA; Gina DePalma of Ristorante Babbo pair up, each preparing one course, for the grand gala dinner.

Reservations for the Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner are available for $750 per person or $7,000 per table. To purchase tickets, contact Ellen Farentino with Spago at (310) 385-0880.

Additional Events

The American Wine & Food Festival has also announced additional special events and perks. Audi will host a special wine tasting in the month of September featuring distinguished sommelier Christopher Miller of Spago Beverly Hills. Sommelier Miller has been dubbed “2008 Best Young Sommelier in the World,” “2007 Best Young Sommelier in the U.S.” (both Chaine des Rotisseurs International and National Competitions), and Wine & Spirits magazine’s “Best New Sommelier of 2008.”

MasterCard® returns for its third year of sponsoring the festival as the preferred card of the American Wine & Food Festival. In addition to its philanthropic presence, World and World Elite MasterCard cardholders may maximize their experience by purchasing VIP packages and enjoying additional benefits from ticket purchases.

To find out more, contact MasterCard at (800) 964-4742 or offers@octagon.com. Reservations are limited in number and subject to availability, and are only valid if purchased via MasterCard using your World and World Elite MasterCard.

Saturday Participating Chefs & Restaurants (to date):

Saturday Participating Chefs & Restaurants (to date):
Alan Wong of Alan Wong’s; Alex Stratta of ALEX, Wynn Las Vegas; Mark Gaier and Clark Frasier of Arrows Restaurant; Jonathan Waxman of Barbuto; Paul Bartolotta of BARTOLOTTA Ristorante di Mare; Laurent Tourondel of BLT; Thomas Keller of Bouchon; Robert Del Grande of Café Annie; Mark Peel of Campanile; Rene Mata of Chinois; Walter Manzke of Church & State; Mark Miller of Coyote Café; Ken Oringer of Clio; Tom Colicchio of Craftsteak Restaurants; Ari Rosenson & Matt Hurley  of CUT Las Vegas and Beverly Hills; Roger Stettler of Four Seasons Resort Maui, Hawaii; Ilan Hall of Gorbals; Frank Ostini of The Hitching Post; Joe Miller of Joe’s Restaurant, Venice; Richard Sandoval of Ketsi, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita; Lydia Shire, Mario Capone & Simon Restrepo of Scampo; Traci Des Jardins of Manzanita Lake Tahoe; Cal Stamenov of Marinus Restaurant at Bernardus Lodge; Nobu Matsuhisa of Matsuhisa & Nobu LA; Gino Angelini of Minestraio Trattoria; John Cuevas of Montage Beverly Hills; Nancy Silverton of Mozza; Norman Van Aken of NORMAN’S; Octavio Becerra of Palate Food + Wine; Joachim Splichal of Patina; Francois Payard of Payard Patisserie & Bistro; Julian Serrano of Picasso; Jimmy Schmidt of Rattlesnake Club; Richard Reddington of Redd; Sam Choy of Sam Choy’s; Charles Phan of Slanted Door; Kerry Heffernan of South Gate; Mark Ferguson of Spago Bachelor Gulch; Wolfgang Puck of Spago Beverly Hills; Sherry Yard of Spago Beverly Hills; Lee Hefter and Thomas Boyce of Spago Beverly Hills; David Robins and Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas; Cameron Lewark of Spago Maui; Stephan Pyles of Stephan Pyles Restaurant; Lissa Doumani and Hiro Sone of Terra, St. Helena, and AME, San Francisco; David Walzog of SW Steakhouse, Wynn Las Vegas; Tommaso Tarantino, Luciano Pellegrini and Nicola Chessa of The Valentino Restaurant Group: Santa Monica, Las Vegas and Houston; Yuji Wakiya of Wakiya Ichiemicharo, Tokyo; Marc Djozlija, Aram Mardigian, John Lechleidner and Dustin Lewandowski of WP Bar & Grill; Mat Bencivenga, Yoshi Kojima, Scott Drewno Ben Hong & Sara Johannes of Red Seven, Source, Jai and Five Sixty.

Sunday Participating Chefs & Restaurants (to date):

Gina DePalma of Ristorante Babbo; Dean Fearing of Fearing’s at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas; Laurent Gras of L2O; Thomas Keller of Bouchon; Jereme Leung of Jereme Leung Creative Concepts Pte Ltd; Nobu Matsuhisa of Matsuhisa & Nobu LA.

Participating Vintners (to date):

Baker Lane Vineyards; Beaulieu Vineyard; Beckmen Vineyards; Beringer Vineyards; Bernardus Winery; Betts and Scholl; BISOL Prosecco; Bonaccorsi Wine Company; Bouchaine Vineyards; Chappellet Winery; Charles Krug Winery; Chateau St. Jean; Cielo Malibu Estate Wineyards; Crimson Wine Group; Domaine Drouhin Oregon; Domaine Serene; Dreyfus, Ashby & Co.; Duckhorn Wine Company; Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery; Flowers Vineyard & Winery; FOXEN; Francis Ford Coppola Winery; Frank Family Vineyards; Frog’s Leap Winery; Gramercy Cellars; Grgich Hills Estate; Gridley Family Cellars; Groth Vineyards & Winery; Hendry; J Vineyards & Winery; Joseph Carr; JUSTIN Winery; Karl Lawrence Cellars; Laetitia Vineyard & Winery; Lancaster Estate; Layer Cake; Loire Valley Wine Bureau; Long Shadows Vintners; Luna Vineyards; Malibu Family Wines; Malibu Vineyards; Mason Cellars; Melville; Miner Family; Morgan Winery; Myuge Wines; Ortman Family Vineyards; O’Shaughnessy Winery; Paradigm Winery; PEJU; Pride Mountain Vineyards; Rosenblum Cellars; Rosenthal-The Malibu Estate/Surfrider; Semler & Saddlerock; The Scholium Project; Silver Oak Wine Cellars; Star Lane & Dierberg Vineyards; Sterling Vineyards; Symington Family Estates; Tantara Winery; Topanga “TV” Vineyards; Waters Winery; Whitcraft Winery.

Participating Spirits (to date):

Ultimat Vodka, Patron Tequila, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, Ventura Limoncello.

Event Sponsors (to date):

Audi, MasterCard, Fiji Water, Southern California Gas, Pure Blue Meat Australian, CIGNA, Ultimate Vodka, Patron Tequila, Loire Valley Wine Bureau, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Campbell Soup, Tillamook Cheese, Idaho Potato Commission, EvansHardy+Young, Mansour Travel Company, American Airlines, Wynn Encore Las Vegas, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, Ventura Limoncello, Credit-Suisse, Wolfgang Puck Bistro, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Wolfgang Puck Coffee, Wolfgang Puck Culinary Iced Coffees, La Brea Bakery, Integrated Transportation Services, Republic Master Chefs, Universal Studios, Acteva, Mighty Leaf Tea, Oikos Organic Greek Yogurt, L.A. Specialty Produce, Knork Flatwear, Southern California Wine & Spirits, SYSCO Los Angeles, Miele, Urbani Tartufi, US Foodservice Los Angeles Division,  Classic Party Rentals, Clear Channel Outdoor, Jacob Maarse, Renaissance Hotels, The Tasting Panel, SingularCity.com, Food Arts, Wine Spectator, Angeleno.

About World MasterCard®

MasterCard understands that consumers have re-evaluated what’s important in life, so MasterCard has provided a card program that delivers personalized value – World MasterCard®.

In these current economic times, it’s important to have a card that gives you value beyond your purchases.  In addition to delivering a diverse collection of premium offers, special amenities and great customer service, World MasterCard® also gives you personalized features to manage your account.  Visit www.priceless.com/world to start experiencing your value and rewarding journey with World MasterCard®.

About the American Wine & Food Festival

Since its inception in 1982, the Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation has supported the American Wine & Food Festival, raising more than $15 million for Los Angeles Chapters of Meals On Wheels.  This organization serves thousands of meals each day to Los Angeles’ homebound senior and disabled citizens.

As a result of their efforts on behalf of Meals On Wheels, the Austrian-born Puck, renowned for feeding Hollywood glamour at the annual post-Oscar extravaganza, and leading restaurant designer Lazaroff, are also celebrated for their philanthropic spirit. 

Playboy, in association with The Hi-Line Group and The Prive Group, will host the Third Annual Hot Summer Nights at Playboy Mansion on August 15, 2009. Benefiting United Breast Cancer Foundation, the party will feature lovely ladies, sensational sounds, a celebrity poker tournament and the 2nd Annual 2009 Concorso Exotica car show. This is the not-to-be-missed hottest party of the summer!
Event Hosts

Hot Summer Nights is hosted by The Hi-Line Group (www.hi-linegroup.com) and produced by The Prive Group (www.theprivegroup.com), a luxury lifestyle entertainment and event production company.

Providing the star power will be hosts Traci Bingham, former Baywatch star, and “Premier UFC Octagon Girl” Arianny Celeste. Co-hosting the Hot Summer Nights benefit at the Playboy Mansion will be Miss Maxim USA Tami Donaldson and model Sarah Stage.

Event Festivities

Rocking the Playboy Mansion grounds will be performances by Terra Inconita (featuring Prophet), Strawberry Blonde and over 250 gorgeous models including Playmates, sexy Copa Swimwear and Benchwarmer International Models, go-go dancers and body painted models. As if that wasn’t enough of a reason to attend, guests will also be treated to a 4-course gourmet buffet and premium open bar all night long while taking part in the world renowned Playboy Mansion experience and enjoying the ambient tunes from several world-class DJ’s.

Additional events taking place during Hot Summer Nights include the 2nd Annual 2009 Concorso Exotica car show. Sponsored by RPM Lounge, the car show will take place on the front lawn of the Playboy Mansion from 8:00 pm until 10:00 pm.

On display will be exotic cars from different manufacturers. Body painted models will showcase exotic car sponsor logos and designs. A celebrity poker tournament will also take place during the 2009 Consorco Exotica, while a separate media wall will be displayed for the car show sponsors and car industry media to conduct press coverage and pictures.

Check out our coverage of last year’s Hot Summer Nights…

Attending the Event

For more information on the Hot Summer Nights visit www.hotsummernights.biz (Promo Code CEG1503).
 
Ladies interested in being considered for a complimentary invitation may register at www.copatalent.com.

For celebrity guest list, press & media consideration, please contact Steven Yamin at Conscience Entertainment Group. steven@conscience-entertainment.com

United Breast Cancer Foundation

Proceeds from the evening will support the United Breast Cancer Foundation’s (UBCF) grants to local L.A. area health care centers and mobile mammography programs. Founded in 2000, the United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF) is a national non-profit organization dedicated to serving patients and families who are managing breast cancer. You can learn more about UBCF’s programs and ways to support the United Breast Cancer Foundation by visiting www.ubcf.info.

HI-Line Group
 
Event host The HI-Line Group was founded in 2007 by select individuals who owned
their own businesses located in California’s Central Valley region. With a vision of organizing (primarily California) charity events, the organization strives to provide an ongoing charity event platform throughout California that continuously raises the awareness of certain diseases or cultural issues that need voluntary funding. The HI-Line Group is a unique partnership and is committed to helping others who are less fortunate.

A pool party will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and is immediately followed by an off-site VIP after party from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Live and silent auctions will take part throughout the day to benefit TJ Martell Foundation.

Event Highlights

A party so hot it should come with a Surgeon General warning label, attendees will indulge in the notorious Playboy Mansion experience; complete with the oh so beautiful Playmates, models and some of the best-known Hollywood entertainment industry personalities. The Summer Fling Party will have an unlimited food and open bar. In typical Playboy fashion, the event only gets better as the hours go by with a sexy VIP after-party beginning at 10 p.m. in a to-be-announced premier venue.

VIP King For The Weekend

The VIP King-for-the-Weekend package includes two nights at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, limo transportation to and from Playboy Mansion, full tours of the Mansion grounds by Playmates, gourmet BBQ meals, and full open bar all day. The VIP King-for-the-Weekend package features specialized spa treatments, full access to pool and grotto (towels will be provided, but swimsuits are not required), and a shared cabana. Also included in the package are photos opps with Playmates, a special commemorative gift and access to the VIP after-party with open bar.
 
VIP Cabana Package

Looking to party with seven of your closest friends? Or just seven people who swear they’re your closest friend when they hear about Playboy’s Summer Fling? Whatever the occasion you’re celebrating, the VIP Cabana Package for a party of eight includes all of the above goodies as well as a VIP Cabana with rotating Playmate hostesses, premium bottle service with server and security, a special commemorative gift and VIP access to the exclusive after-party with bottle service, open bar, and more.

General Admission

The All Day General Admission Ticket will let you enjoy the Summer Fling Party with amazing perks, such as shuttle service to and from the Mansion from the off-site parking facility, full tours of Mansion grounds by Playmates, full access to pool and grotto, gourmet BBQ buffet, a full open bar, admission to the after-party, and more.
 
Auction Benefits TJ Martell Foundation

Sometimes a fling can be virtuous. Produced by ellemés international, Summer Fling at Playboy will include live and silent charity auctions that will run all day and night, with proceeds benefiting the TJ Martell Foundation. TJ Martell Foundation raises research funds for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS.

Items to be auctioned off during the Summer Fling include one-of-a-kind music and sports memorabilia, trips, electronics, and other desirable products and experiences.

Ordering Tickets

Guests must be 21 years old and over. To order tickets or for more information visit www.summerflingparty.com (promo code SY0718). A portion of the ticket price will be donated to the TJ Martell Foundation.
 
VIP Admission – Whole day Mansion Admission and Weekend Hotel Package: $2,500.00 per person

VIP Cabanas (Party of 8 guests) – $25,000.00 per party with WeekendHotel Package for Eight

General Admission: $1,500.00 per person (includes after-party with cash bar, does not include hotel accommodations)

Patti LuPone and Mandy Patikin sing musical theater classics

You’ll be laughing, clapping and singing along with two of Broadway’s greatest performers, Mandy Patinkin and Patti LaPone, as they bring to life over thirty songs from different musicals in the show, “An Evening with Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin” at the Ahmanson Theater of the Center Theatre Group in Downtown Los Angeles.  The two play out a romantic comedy story line by expertly stringing songs together from Sondheim to Rogders and Hammerstein to Irving Berlin and many other musical theater favorites.

LaPone and Patinkin make you feel like you’re watching them in their living room as they are completely comfortable, relaxed and playful during the performance.  Since this show originally debuted in 2007, practice makes perfectly unperturbed singers. Before that, LaPone and Patinkin co-starred with one another in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita, where in 1980, Patinkin won a Tony award for his role as Che.

The pair work synergistically to create a harmonious performance, both sharing the limelight of the almost bare stage except for a few stylistic lamp stands of Thomas Edison light bulbs and a pianist and upright bass player. Dressed in all black with simple lighting and only a scarf and chairs for props, the night was solely dedicated to celebrating the classics songs of musical theater.

LuPone and Patinkin are perfect choices to give a tribute to American musical theater as they have more than sixty years combined career accomplishments that are as long as the Statue of Liberty is tall. Last season, LuPone won the Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Best Actress in a Musical and the Drama League Award for Outstanding Performance of the Season for performance as Madame Rose in the critically acclaimed Broadway production of Gypsy.  Patinkin recently celebrated the 20th Anniversary of performing his critically renowned solo concerts, Dress Casual, Celebrating Sondheim and Mamaloshen, in rep with a two-week run at New York’s Public Theater, the very space he began his concert career 20 years ago.

Some of the audience’s favorite songs of the night were, Stephen Sondheim’s “Getting Married Today” from Company, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” from Evita, Jule Styne’s and Stephen Sondheim’s “Everything is Coming up Roses” from Gypsy, and Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “If I Loved You” from Carousel.

To get tickets for the musical theater lover in you, go online to: www.centertheatregroup.org.

Performance Days and Times:
Through Friday June 26th: 8pm
Sat June 27th: 2pm, 8pm
Sun June 28th: 3pm
Mon June 29th: 8 pm

Tickets: $20 – $90

Ahmanson Theatre at the Music Center
135 N. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA
213.628.2772

• Accommodations at the oceanfront Hotel Villa Portofino
• Continental breakfast
• Welcome gift
• R/T boat transportation aboard Catalina Express from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point
• R/T taxi transfers between boat dock and hotel
• 1 ¼ hour snorkel trip with Catalina Ocean Rafting

Weekend rates are higher, and a two night minimum stay is usually required.

Upon arrival at one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, guests will enjoy 45 minutes of water time to explore the undersea gardens. Snorkel gear and instruction is included.

Trips start at 8:30 am everyday and run every 1 ½ until the last departure at 4:00 pm. Guest must meet at Catalina Ocean Rafting 15 minutes prior to departure with bathing suits on and their own towels. Wetsuits may be rented for an additional $5. Children under five and pregnant women are unable to participate. In the event of rain or rough seas, the trip may be cancelled or delayed.

Take in the clean ocean air and slower pace of island life, with a little escape to Southern California’s most engaging island, by calling 1-888-34-OCEAN, 888-510-0555, or locally, 310-510-0555.

Visit www.hotelvillaportofino.com.  For transportation, call Catalina Express at 800-429-4601, or log on to www.catalinaexpress.com.

Kris Jenner announced the honorees this past week at the Sofitel for the 2009 Celebrity Catwalk. Each year, top celebrities donate their time and talent by hitting the catwalk for the purpose of raising funds and awareness for National Animal Rescue. This fashion show merges the worlds of fashion and entertainment into one unforgettable evening.

Kris Jenner announces the honorees for the 2009 Celebrity Catwalk at the Sofitel.

This year, the honorees are Paula Abdul (American Idol), Nigel Barker (America’s Next Top Model), Heather Mills, and Mya, for their contributions in helping the plight of innocent animals.

You can get your tickets now and avoid the long lines the day of the event. You will be able to walk up to will call and pick them up. www.CelebrityCatwalk.com

Celebrity life coach Johnny Winbrey attended in support of the cause.

The event will take place in Hollywood on August 27th, 2009, at:

Hollywood Highlands
6801 Hollywood Blvd. 4th Floor
Hollywood, CA   90028

The Charities that will be helped are:

Noah’s Ark – www.noahsark.org
Noah’s Ark Animal Foundation is a no-kill shelter whose million is to rescue, protect and find loving homes for stray and neglected dogs and cats. They strive to offer the best in both traditional veterinary care and when possible, holistic health care for sick and injured animals in their care.

Almost Home Rescue – www.almosthomerescue.org
They are a network of independent rescue volunteers who work together to rescue abandoned, abused, and unwanted dachshunds. They provide medical and behavioral care for them, place them in loving homes and work out transports to get them to their new families.

This is a 21 and over event.

Hors d’oeuvres were catered by Simon LA restaurant at Sofitel.

The bar was sponsored by Nuvo.

Andres Alexis serves up delicious Nuvo cocktails at the Celebrity Catwalk event.