Sunday, February 27, 2005
FEB 27: PRE-AWARDS "RED CARPET" SHOPPING EVENT EVEN MORTALS CAN ATTEND (from TOP BUTTON)
FEB 27-28: Spa/Resort/MedSpa Expo Returns to LACC
The last two days of February will see the return of the annual Spa & Resort / Medical Spa Expo and Conference. Location: the Los Angeles Convention Center at 1201 South Figueroa Street, downtown Los Angeles, California.
Exhibit Hall:
Sunday, February 27th 10:00am-5:00pm
Monday, February 28th 10:00am-5:00pm
Spa and Medical Spa Conferences:
Sunday, February 27th 10:00am-4:00pm
Monday, February 28th 10:00am-4:00pm
Massage University:
Saturday, February 26th 10:00am-4:00pm; these sessions will be held at the Hilton Checkers Hotel, 535 South Grand Avenue in Los Angeles, CA
Spa University, Medical Spa Start-Up and Opening a Spa:
Saturday, February 26th:
Spa University Classes - 9:00am - 4:00pm
Medical Spa Start-Up Session - 10:00am - 4:00pm
Opening a Spa Session - 10:00am - 4:00pm
Spa and Medical Spa Tours:
Spa Tours: Sunday, February 27th 7:30am-11:00am, Monday, February 28th 7:30am-11:00am; Medical Spa Tours: Sunday, February 27th 7:30am-11:00am
Keynotes:
Sunday, February 27th 9:00am-10:00am
Monday, February 28th 9:00am-10:00am
Cocktail Reception (open to all badged attendees and exhibitors):
Sponsored by Spa Finder
Sunday, February 27th 5:00pm-6:00pm - Los Angeles Convention Center An end-of-day party where you can enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres as you catch up with old friends, make new connections and wind down after a day at the Event.
Innovation Forums and New Product Center (open to all badged attendees) take place during the Exhibition Hours.
Friday, February 25, 2005
FEB 25: LUSHSPA OPENS WITH PRE-MOVIE-LAURELS PARTY ON LAUREL CANYON
by Don Rose
(Feb. 25: Studio City, CA) As studios in the city were in the middle of pre Oscar madness, something special was going on in the middle of Studio City: the lovely LushSpa celebrated its Grand Opening, which doubled as a benefit for Melissa Beyeler’s (wife of KROQ DJ Kevin, of Kevin & Bean) organization “Friends & Helpers” (a grass-roots charity that cares for the physical and emotional needs of people whose families have been torn apart by violence). Tonight's revelers got to experience this new day spa and medical spa under one roof. Whether you want to get waxed, manicured, massaged, botoxed, or lasered, LushSpa has it all.
Located in an elegant house on Laurel Canyon, LushSpa’s warm, homey environment is comfortable for anyone looking to kick back, relax and get beautiful, and that's just what was happening at this kickoff party. People were chatting, networking, touring the house, buying lotions and potions, and trying services as they mingled with Adam Carolla (The Man Show; Loveline on KROQ) and the beautiful brains behind LushSpa: partners Gina Kimmel, Lynette Carolla and Kim Sudhalter. (Gina and Lynette are the wives of comedianhosts Jimmy Kimmel and Carolla, while the multitalented Kim is the driving force behind Urban Legend PR). LushSpa is billed as Los Angeles’ first fun spa, and I could see why: not only were guests getting treatments such as massage and manicure (proceeds tonight going to “Friends & Helpers”), but there was free flowing wine, beer, mixed drinks... delectable treats such as quesadillas, hummus, and veggies... drinks... spirited conversation... and drinks.
I guess by now you can see one of the big selling points here: come here when you feel like a libation, not a library. Get a treatment AND some treats. Get down after your rubdown! The idea, I am told, came after the three gal-getters, all spa devotees, grew tired of complaining to each other, “wouldn’t it be nice if we could hang out and have a glass of wine after a massage... why do I have to go to five different places to get everything done… why do I have to listen to that flute music all the time… what’s wrong with Beastie Boys in a beauty bar?” This new spa is the answer.
But LushSpa is not JUST about fun, of course; they feature a full team of licensed and certified estheticians, masseuses and manicurists. Valley vets and Hollywood hotties alike can partake of facials, massages, hand, nail and waxing treatments… all named after delicious cocktails (which, did I mention, were flowing freely, and free, this opening night? Oh yeah, I did.) Dr. Bruce Heischober (Dr. Bruce from KROQ’s Loveline) provides the latest in IPL (intense pulsed light) and laser treatments including mesotherapy (the mini-facelift), thermage (for cellulite), Foto Facials, tattoo removal, spider vein and acne treatments. LushSpa also carries top skin care products from Skin Medica, Sothys, Epicuren, mineral-based makeup from Jane Airedale, fashionable accessories and exclusive wardrobe items purchased in London and Paris by a TV wardrobe consultant. Each massage and facial room is equipped with its own CD player so guests can bring their own music, if they so choose -- another nice touch.
Speaking of touch, LushSpa offers something for everyone including such treatments as:
Men- The “Scotch and Soda” facial for men, or back waxing;
Women – The “Cosmopolitan” -- a deep steam cleansing facial followed by makeup application for a night out, or the “Alabama Slammer” deep tissue massage ;
Teens – The “Shirley Temple” papaya and pineapple extract facial for clear skin ;
Couples – The ”Cosmo Couples” where you can choose from any of our massage therapies and share the experience, side by side, in our couple’s private suite;
Those Who Drink Too Much – The Hangover Remedy (Sat/ Sun mornings only), cooling face mask and a soothing head and neck massage.
LushSpa was easy to find; as I ventured north of Ventura I saw the multilevel white mansion on my left and thought, "This must be It!". Enter, and the atmosphere is comfortable, cozy and inviting... almost like visiting a family's home -- a departure from some spas that can at times make one feel, well, a bit like a number. Like all the best LA hotspots, LushSpa has no sign out front, so now that you're in the know with new knowledge, let's review: big WHITE house on the WEST of the street a WEE bit north of Ventura. And if some other spa still has you feeling like a number, ok, here's one: 4251... Laurel Canyon... Studio City, CA... and here's another: 91604.
So remember: LushSpa is now open for your pampering pleasure, and stays open late by request, for those looking to make a night out of relaxing with their friends. The entire facility is also available for special events -- Bachelorette Parties, Wrap Parties, Wedding Day events, and more -- a brilliant idea, I believe, because other than Jerry's Deli and the bowling place on Ventura there really aren't that many great spaces to do such shindigs in Studio City... and certainly none that can turn a special event into a House Party. LushSpa really does look and feel like a home away from home.
If you ever wished there was one comfortable, affordable, fun place you could go to tend to ALL your beauty and skin needs, and have fun doing it, you now have your answer. I'll drink to that.
Hours are Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m, closed on Mondays. LushSpa is by appointment only and late appointments will be taken on request. The entire facility is available for special events, i.e. bridal showers, wrap parties, bachelorette parties, etc. For general information call LushSpa at 818.506.7848 (web site still under construction); for press inquiries, please call Kim Sudhalter, 323.466.1268.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
FEB15 EVENT REVIEW: NATL LAMPOON'S "BLACKBALL" DVD RELEASE PARTY
(Hollywood Hills: Feb. 15, 2005) Yes, there is a cool new DVD debuting this week that co-stars Vince Vaughn. Yes, it has "Ball" in the title. But forget Dodgeball, this is National Lampoon's Blackball, a tale that feels like the love child of "Caddyshack" and "Happy Gilmore", with an English accent:
Synopsis: The realm of popular spectator sports includes football, rugby, tennis, golf, and -- lawn bowls? In Torquay, a city on "The English Riviera," this game for geriatrics and pensioners is taken very seriously -- especially by reigning champ Ray Speight. Conservative and stuffy, he's been Torquay's hero for 20+ years, but now his title is threatened. Young Cliff Starkey dares to go up against him; his sexy bad-boy persona attracts a flashy American agent (Vaughn) and an army of female fans. Cliff is a fresh new sex symbol -- turning Lawn Bowls into the biggest spectator sport in England! And Cliff's biggest fan is his new girlfriend Kerry -- who is, yes, Ray's daughter.
To celebrate the DVD's release, NL threw a party at the magnificent mansion that the head of the comedy franchise calls home. Guests were treated to hip DJ tunes as well as tasty sandwiches, delish cookies (they covered all bases: choc chip, choc choc chip, white choc chip), and plentiful drinks (providing guests many choices, including lots of my fave, IZZE drinks -- with creative juice flavors like Clementine! -- and many bottles of beer to consume -- remember, this is the company that made Animal House, so beer is practically a requirement). The event started pleasantly mellow but built steadily in energy and size until dozens were dancing and the mingling and munching morphed into multiple modes of merriment, including overheard jokes, laughs, flirting, piano playing (yours truly) -- in short, what you'd expect a Lampoon shindig to be like (and no, Animal fanatics, no beer bottles were thrown through the window -- this was a REAL house we were at, people!).
The crowd was cool, friendly, and diverse. I got a kick out of meeting stars from Survivor who exchanged war stories with two stars from Average Joe -- Joe (yes, his real name), a man who really is not that average given his dynamite demeanor (one of the original contestants, he says he is "a rock star when you get out of LA" -- folks once waited hours in the rain for Joe's signature)... and Dennis, who actually works for NL, and does not look like the nerdy picture on his card -- he looks nerdier. But all seriousness aside, he is charming, very charming. A perky personality, like many of those in attendance.
And in the midst of it all, mingling up a storm, arriving in grand style in hot car pulled right up to the party's entrance, was Kato Kaelin. One of Lampoon's stars, KK is currently filming his TV show Eye for an Eye; word is "Eye" will air Mon-Fri starting in September, on either KCAL or KTLA here in L.A. The K-man was in town for one day to shoot a part in an HBO film, yet STILL made it to the DVD bash. (But hey, this WAS the hot party of the night!)
Ed.note: I recently performed the voice of OJ on a comedy radio show, "commenting" on the Scott Peterson trial -- and thankfully got Kato's seal of approval -- but I wonder if some of the young beauties at this soiree even recall that circus of justice, now that THREE new "Trials of the Century" are going on here in the City of Fallen Angels. Guess I better get my Robert Blake, Phil Spector and MJ impressions down soon, or I will be out of jurisprudence jocularity...
Other notables in attendance: Blackball co-star James Cromwell, looking tall (well, he is) and extremely at ease, very friendly (he plays the upper crust establishment TedKnight-ish character being challenged by the upstart Starkey)... one of my favorite comediennes, Judy Tenuta... an exec from Fox (no Paris in tow, darn)... several higherups from Lampoon, including the cool CEO/partyhost... celeb photog extraordinaire Ken Sax... and, ascending actress Phoebe Price, a striking redhead (not on strike -- I mean good looking) who has no less than FOUR films slated to come out this year (including, I am told, a tale that revolves around that everpresent part of many LA parties, the Gift Bag).
Speaking of gifts, this NL party had that too: there were free Tshirts (NOT all XL, good job!) and posters of Blackball to take home on the way out. But many simply did not want to leave; although the music was off by midnight, revelers kept schmoozing and flirting and exchanging numbers and, well, hey, for many this wasn't just a fun Hollywood party, it was a nice substitute for a so-so Valentine's Day the day before. Beautiful night, beautiful girls, dapper dudes, reality stars, fiction stars, giveaways, grub, libations galore -- hard to top all that at this strong candidate for TRR "Party of the Week". And it's not even Hump Day yet.
Special thanks to BWR PR, and their dynamic duo Neal Cohen and Henry Eshelman (one of the event's excellent DJ's) , for putting on a bang-up Blackball bash.
And, in case you were wondering... yes, I have left the party.
I wanted to keep the English vibe going, but Denny's doesn't serve Bangers and Mash...
Sunday, February 13, 2005
FEB.13 - DEAD LIVE
This concert for Dead fans stars the Dark Star Orchestra. Sunday 2/13 at 7pm; don't forget to set your TiVo for the Grammys (although, if you're into the Dead, chances are you aren't that into this year's Grammys anyway -- or using a VCR). Location: the El Rey Theatre ( 5515 Wilshire Blvd, 323.936.6400). Cost: $23.50.
Saturday, February 12, 2005
FEB.12: BENEFIT SHOPPING DAY AT DONALD J. PLINER STORE, BEVERLY HILLS
Friday, February 11, 2005
FEB.11: VALENTINES BASH BY CUPID'S COACH & RAPID DATING
Friday, February 11, 2005, 7:30PM to 12:30AM
1707 Fourth Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Tickets:
$39.00 per person IN ADVANCE
$49.00 per person AT THE DOOR
NOTE: Friday at NOON (2/11) is the deadline for making advance reservations at the $39 rate. If you miss that deadline, you can purchase tickets at the door for $49. Recommended arrival is before 8pm, to avoid a possible sellout.
are combining forces to bring you one HECK of a Valentine's Celebration.
Professional photos, tarot readings, dating coaches offering
online profile writing/polishing. Also: a comfy, quiet "lounge" room.
Come have fun, and meet the One!
For more info: www.cupidscoach.com
FEB.11-13: CONSCIOUS LIFE EXPO
OPENING DAY, FRIDAY: Come early, stay late. 12pm—10:30pm.
LOTS OF FREE EVENTS with General Admission;
only $10 General Admission (advance price), $15 at door.
CHOOSE from 23 spellbinding lectures—FREE with admission.
ATTEND a RARE KEYNOTE ADDRESS
FEATURING alternative medicine trailblazer, NORM SHEALY, MD, PhD.
ENJOY CONSCIOUS VIDEO SHOWCASE — meet the filmmakers.
PLUS: Experience a FREE SCREENING: " WHAT THE BLEEP? "
See it again, bring your friends...or see it for the first time!
This film is changing our perception of life and the cinema
—and has the nation abuzz. Followed by Q&A by its promoter John Raatz.
FREE LECTURE & PANELS SATURDAY • FREE LECTURES & MORE SUNDAY.
EXCITING WORKSHOPS, CELEBRATIONS AND MORE, ALL WEEKEND LONG.
POST CONFERENCE MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14TH.
For more information and to register, visit www.consciouslifeexpo.com or call 800.367.5777
FEB.11-12: DIY CONVENTION IN HOLLYWOOD
7000 Hollywood Blvd., between LaBrea and Highland, 323-466-7000
9:45 a.m. Welcoming Remarks
10-11 a.m. STARTING YOUR OWN ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS: Starting and growing a venture in the fickle world of entertainment is no easy task. But our panel will tell you the secrets of their success!
Moderator: Tess Taylor, NARIP
Panelists:
11-12 noon DIGITAL ON DEMAND: A discussion of the various digital distribution strategies available for independent artists in film, music and books Moderator: Bruce Haring, DIY Convention Panelists:
NOON Keynote Address: JOHN WAITE. The voice and songwriter behind one of rock's all-time classics, "Missing You," is now a born-again DIY'er with a new album out on his own No Brakes Records label. He'll discuss his long career and take audience questions. Moderated by Melinda Newman, West Coast bureau chief, Billboard magazine.
1-2 p.m. BRANDING AND SPONSORSHIP: How to attract the attention of the people who have money to spend, as told by people who do it for a living. Moderator: Bruce Haring, DIY Convention Panelists:
2-3 p.m. VIDEO GAMESMANSHIP: Licensing your music into this niche requires strategies and skills far different than traditional composing. Our experts reveal the secrets.... Moderator: Mara Schwartz, Bug Music Panelists:
3-4 p.m. THE STATE OF PUNK: What happens when a formerly underground movement becomes one of the nation's hottest genres discussed by artists and executives in the scene. Moderator: Anita Rivas, attorney Panelists:
4-5 p.m. SONGWRITER 101: Writing for other artists is far different than preparing for a career as a performer. A panel drawn from hit songwriters in several genres talks about their careers and the business of creating music.... Moderator: Dan Kimpel, Music Connection Panelists:
5-6 p.m. YOU CAN'T GET THERE FROM HERE: The rules of the road explained by people who have piled up a few miles..... Moderator: Noel Ramos, IndieGate.com/IMC Panelists: # # # SAT. FEB. 12
9:45 a.m. Welcoming Remarks
10 a.m. SETTING UP SUCCESS: Success in film, music and books starts with keeping good books and knowing what your obligations are to the state and federal government. We'll tell you the steps in quick, painless fashion. Moderator: Panelists: 11 a.m. Moderator: Bruce Haring, DIY Convention Panelists:
11 a.m. LICENSING YOUR MUSIC. Getting your music into film and television requires a strong strategy. Getting music for your film production also requires a strong strategy. The two camps meet in this panel.... Moderator: Ray Yee, BMI Panelists:
NOON KEYNOTE - "A CONVERSATION WITH DOUG GILLARD" A member of indie stalwarts Guided By Voices, Death of Samantha and Cobra Verde, Gillard has won acclaim for his solo debut album, "Salamander." He'll discuss his secrets for success and his views on where the industry is headed in a one-on-one conversation with Bug Music's Mara Schwartz followed by audience questions.
1 p.m. HOW TO SELL 10,000 CDs THIS YEAR: A discussion on how to achieve a sale plateau that let's you make a living and positions you for the next level..... Moderator: Bruce Haring, DIY Convention Panelists:
2 p.m. INDIE, MAJOR OR DIY: The three paths to music glory as discussed by people who have been in all three camps. Expect a few good war stories..... Moderator: Bruce Haring, DIY Convention Panelists:
3 p.m. MUSIC MARKETING, PUBLICITY, PROMOTION. There's a difference between the three forms of letting the world know about your music. Our A-team will explain it all to you.... Moderator: Bruce Haring, DIY Convention Panelists:
4 p.m. THE PITCH: You meet someone with money in an elevator. You have 30 seconds to tell them about your project and gain their interest. Our panel will explain how to do it and then rate your skills! Moderator: Steve Mirkin, Variety Panelists:
FILM TRACK:
1 p.m. DIGITAL FILMMAKING 101: An idea, a camera, a computer, a movie. Our battle-tested lineup of filmmakers will tell you how they did it and how you can do it yourself..... Moderator: Ross Novie, filmmaker Panelists:
2 p.m.FILM MARKETING/PROMO/ DISTRIBUTION. Your film is done. Now what? Attend this panel and you'll find ou how to get the word out.... Moderator: Richard Martini, DIY Film Festival programming coordinator Panelists:
BREAKOUTS
10 a.m. INDEPENDENT MARKETING Noel Ramos is the founder of the Independent Music Conference and IndieGate.com. He'll teach you how to build your sales and marketing success in this fast-paced session.
11 a.m. SPECIAL EFFECTS ON AN INDEPENDENT BUDGET Marty Bresin has lectured worldwide on the art of creating big screen special effects with a tiny budget. Hear his tips on making your next film look like a million bucks!
3 p.m. THE STATE OF URBAN MUSIC. The thriving world of independent urban music unveiled by those immersed in it..... Moderator: Gary Jackson, journalist Panelists:
4 p.m. GETTING PUBLISHED. Everyone has a half-finished book in their desk drawer. We'll tell you how to get it out of the desk and into book form. Moderator: Joan La Grone, author Panelists:
5 p.m. DEREK SIVERS The secret of selling your entertainment product in an always tough marketplace for independents may be as simple as learning how to describe it. Learn the secrets of breaking through the sales barrier from the man who has helped sell over $10 million worth of independent music while establishing the CDBaby brand as the go-to source for the indie nation..... |
Thursday, February 10, 2005
FEB10: Artivist 2005 Benefit Party, Presentation & Musical Night!
The Artivist 2005 Benefit Party, Presentation & Musical Night!
Benefiting: The 2nd Annual Artivist Film Festival
"MERGING ART & ACTIVISM FOR GLOBAL CONSCIOUSNESS" 10% of proceeds donated to the tsunami relief efforts.
Thursday, FEB. 10th, at the renowned Sunset Room in Hollywood ~ Come and Share a Wonderful Evening With Us!
Special Musical Guest Performances: LiLi Haydn
performing at 9pm George Clinton calls her "the Jimi Hendrix of the violin". Rollin Stone called her music "an impassioned mix of classical, pop, rock, and funk". In a time of a countless sound-alike bands and musicians, Lili Haydn is a true original; seamlessly tying together her passionate blend of musical styles with the souldful, nakedly emotional sound of her violin and voice.  The Fall Water Project opening at 8:15pm An eclectic mix of melodic rock, funk, folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass, and soul; an unwavering focus on growth and freedom of expression inspires their limitless musical exploration. Damon Elliott performing at 10:00pm As one of the most talented and creative minds in the music industry, Damon Elliott has already accomplished more than most people only dream of. He is a highly acclaimed producer as well as a writer and musician. Damon has worked with many multi-platinum selling artists including Destiny's Child, Gwen Stefani, Beyonce, Pink, and Macy Gray. His discography includes writing and producing 2 songs on Jessica Simpson's latest album "In This Skin", 3 songs on Mya's "Mood Ring", and four tracks on the last 2 albums from Pink, just to name a few.  Shaheen SheikCritics claim Shaheen's music is comparable to the sounds of Sade meets Ben Harper! Her music has an uplifting feel, with deep, meaningful lyrics. Shaheen seduces many listeners into her world and her ideals of love, truth, and compassion. "An excellent presence!"
WHEN: THURS, FEB.10, 2005 7:30-11:30PM.
Red Carpet check-in: 7:30-8:45PM (Complimentary Champagne, Wines and Appetizers served during check-in time.) Performances Begin at 8:15pm. Space is limited, Arrive Early!
WHERE: THE SUNSET ROOM
TICKETS:
Honorary Host Committee For Artivist 2005: Tippi Hedren - Roar Foundation, Eric Garcetti - L.A. City Councilman, Leron Gubler - President of Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, Andy Dick, Dick Van Patten, Jim Leahy - Executive Director of Volunteer Center of L.A., Kate Linder, Marr Nealson - World Fest, Traci Harper - Harper PR, Suzanne Lyons - Snowfall Films, France Nuyen, Alison Arngrim - National Association to Protect Children , Donzaleigh Abernathy, Ann Cusak, Ann Ramsey, Tracy Reiner, Bitty Schramm, Siddharth Kara - "Free the Slaves", Professor Christina Gibson - UCI, Dr. Rebecca Dibble, Sophie Parienti - Founder/Editor of Yogi Times, Frank Dorrell - Addicted to War, Todd Schwartz - CBS Radio, Golden Bridge & Yoga Mates, Rick Scott - Great Scott P.R.oductions Alex Hyde-White, Angelo Surmelis, Jessica Weiner - "actionist", Dr. Raylene Goltra - PhD. President of A.B.S.I., Henry Deas - Variety.
"ARTIVIST" IS A 501C3 NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION AND A HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER.
"I applaud all those who organized "Artivist" to raise awareness about so many issues. You are sending a powerful and unique message for those fortunate to attend." BARBARA BOXER - United States Senator |
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"Congratulations on the successful production of the 1st Annual Artivist Film Festival and Artivist Awards. The City of Los Angeles is proud to endorse and support this annual event. We wish you much success in the years to come and a long productive history here in Hollywood." ERIC GARCETTI - Councilmember, L.A. City Council |
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"ARTIVIST" is the 1st international activist film festival dedicated to addressing Human Rights, Children's Advocacy, Animal Rights and Environmental Preservation through film, visual arts and music. Our mission is to strengthen the voice of international activist artists - "Artivists" - while raising public awareness and funds for social global causes. ARTIVIST 2005 IS CURRENTLY IN PRODUCTION ! |
