Pure, Unadulterated Joy

Pre-Oscar Gifting Suites recap - Luxury Experience & Co at Valerie's Part 1

By Joy A. Kennelly

No matter how times change, some things will always remain the same. By this, I'm referring to Pre-Oscar Gifting Suites. All the stars and wannabe stars flock to these like they've never received a gift in their life, or else that's just my impression having been to so many over the years, but seriously, they're the one time all of Hollywood mixes for a daytime party. Free gifts. Fun People. Glamour. Photos. Networking. An Oscar pre-party.

What's not to love?

I enjoyed attending two very different types of gifting suites during this past weekend. One that's been around for years and one that was new and both were unique and special in their own ways. 

Luxury Experience & Co and Valerie Beverly Hills presented a luxury gifting lounge honoring nominees and presenters during Oscars Weekend at the exclusive Valerie Beverly Hills located in the “Golden Triangle” in the heart of Beverly Hills, California. With quality and luxury in mind, LE & Co gifted celebrities an unparalleled level of style and sophistication in beauty, health, home, travel and wellness.

"Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty" actor Kirk Bovill, Selling Sunset star Amanza Smith, "Dollface" actor Gilles Marini, Amber Friendly (Apple TV’s “The Morning Show"), Tyler Perry's "The Have and the Have Nots" actor Celeste Thorson, Filmmaker/Actress Kathy Kolia, Actress/TV Host Caitlin O'Connor, John Singleton’s “Snowfall,” star Angela Lewis, Adrian Dev (Westworld, Mulan), and many others, which created a great mix of film and television talent.

The LE & Co experience combined the ultimate customized celebrity experience that featured Dr Busso, Nu Estestica Spa, Protege Footwear, Everlasting Comfort, Jewelry By Swoon, B GREAT, EcoSlay, Valerie Beverly Hills, MoreLife, Elixicure, Scott Porter, KAENA Wines, Batch & Bottle, Monkey Shoulder, Glenfiddich, Hendrick’s, Reyka Vodka and Icelandic Glacial.

 

Protégé Footwear was a huge hit among women due to their mechanically engineered fit designed by Candace Chen, the Founder and CEO. A woman's heel is cupped at the heaviest weight of the body on the heel, with gel padding at the ball of the foot, interchangeable straps to vary the look and a toe grip that prevents your foot from awkwardly sliding forward.

I've ordered a pair and am very curious to see how I like the fit since I've had injuries in the past that prevent me from wearing most high heels. Plus, I don't need extra height, but these were too beautiful and interesting not to buy. 

Luxury Experience & Co Pre-Oscar Gifting Suite at Valerie's Beverly Hills

Celebrity guests - click to enlarge the image and see the full perspective

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Valerie's Pre-Oscar Gifting Suite hosted by Luxury Experience & Co

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LE & Co founder Melissa McAvoy, named 2019 Top Dynamic Women by Modern Luxury | Angeleno Magazine, toasted to the success of talent walking away from the event with incredible gifts, valuable new connections and a sense of celebration for the amazing past year in entertainment.

"We couldn't have asked for a better partner to host such a successful event with," McAvoy said of Valerie Beverly Hills. Taken from the Valerie's website and I quote:

"Valerie Beverly Hills is a cosmetic company and makeup boutique based exclusively out of Beverly Hills, California. A luxury brand prized for selling a unique line of high quality cosmetics, Valerie Beverly Hills offers an unparalleled beauty experience to its consumers.

So cheers to all who attended, showcased their wares, and gave us a great memory. We enjoyed the experience. It was a great party and can't wait for the next one. And in the meantime, don't mind me. I'm grateful for my gift bag and seeing as it's one of my love languages, very happy now! Thank you Melissa and team! Great Pre-Oscar event!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#Miss CA Nicole Johnson announcing the start of the show! #Dig4Kids

Meghan Fabulous is also showing! I love her designs and am thrilled to see her here too.

If you look to the right you can see Jeff Murrell spinning. Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Posted via email from joydacious's posterous

TED, Seth Godin, Criminal Minds, Emily Dickinson - what do they have in common?

By Joy A. Kennelly

TED

In case you're curious where I might have written about my experience with TEDxMB, please go to my professional blog: www.thejoywriter.typepad.com/thejoywriterpr and here: #TEDxMB's "Creating the 10K" by Body Glove President/MB Resident, Russ Lesser for the first two installments. 

Seth Godin

One of the brilliant marketing minds, Seth Godin's recent musings has been inspiring me on days when I'm not inspired which I've been dying to share with you. Here's a highlight of Seth Godin's blog entitled "Phoning It in":

"I know doctors, lawyers, waiters and insurance brokers who are honestly and truly passionate about what they do. They view it as an art form, a calling, and an important (no, an essential) thing worth doing.

In fact, I don't think there's a relationship between what you do and how important you think the work is. I think there's a relationship between who you are and how important you think the work is.

Life's too short to phone it in."

That's the way I feel about everything I do in case you haven't noticed. I live and work and love passionately. I believe what I do makes a difference, even if it's just to me.

I encourage you to live your life with passion. If you don't like your job or you're bored - Get out of it, Stop living in the past, Be grateful, or Change your attitude. It will make all the difference in the world to someone, even if it's just yourself.

Life's too short to phone it in.

I have to admit I've been a wee bit busy and not in the mood to blog much since I write a lot otherwise.

Criminal Minds

A poem I heard at the end of the show I was watching tonight, Criminal Minds, (which featured my friend, Richard Clarke Larsen as a man with five kids as a possible suspect in a child abduction case) prompted me to blog tonight however.

I'll admit, I don't like these shows normally, but Shemar Moore is so easy on the eyes I can overlook the sick depravity once in a while. "I only made one baby, but I sure made a pretty baby."  See why I, Ellen and his mama think this is true in the video.:)

And if he's still single, please tell him so am I baby. So am I.:)

I like Criminal Minds every so often, because there's always some type of heartwarming ending due to the nice blonde actress, A.J. Cook, who seems so out-of-place cuz she's so sweet. And I like the quirky research character, Kirsten Vangsness, (does every crime show need one of those - NCSI anyone - or are women who research just odd?:)) and the quirky doctor played by Matthew Gray Gubler who always reminds me of his role in 500 Days of Summer whenever I see him on this show.

Nice to see in his bio he was raised with good values.:) I enjoy the other characters too, but sometimes they can be a little intense. It's especially hard to see Dharma's husband (Thomas Gibson) in a serious role without wondering when Dharma's going to pop out.:

Emily Dickinson

Tonight's episode ended with the following poem by Emily Dickinson which actually inspired me to write this blog in the first place. The sentiment was so beautiful I just wanted to share it with the world.

And I normally don't like poetry...

I'll close with this because I think we can all use a little more hope in this day and age:

Hope     

Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune--without the words,
And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard;
And sore must be the storm
That could abash the little bird
That kept so many warm.

I've heard it in the chillest land,
And on the strangest sea;
Yet, never, in extremity,
It asked a crumb of me.

Good night everyone. Have a good one.

Rusnak - Night of Luxury with Designer Kevan Hall - Part 1

By Joy A. Kennelly

In light of the recent White House party crashers who are soooo desperate for attention (shamefully so), I thought I'd share some of the amazing parties I've been to over the past few months as a legitimately invited guest.

Trust me, I thought being invited to attend this year's Inauguration couldn't be topped, but two luxurious parties held right here in Los Angeles were right up there as a thrilling experience to attend.

What was funny about Rusnak's Night of Luxury is that I really had no idea what to expect - I just knew I wanted to see Designer, Kevan Hall, since I've been attending his fashion shows since 2006 and love his designs.

After pitching the publicist all I could do was hope beyond hope I would receive an invitation it was so exclusive. Only Rusnak customers, VIP's and other select people were invited - I didn't see any of the usual fashion people I saw at other LA Fashion Week events which surprised me.

Rusnak's Night of Luxury was such a special evening. The best part was it's exclusivity and luxurious feel from the moment you arrived till the very end of the night.

Held on the backlot of Universal, you passed through a gate where your name was checked off by a guard before being directed where to park. (Maybe the White House should consider hiring studio security for their future parties. lol)

As I walked up to the entrance I was welcomed by Rusnak staff offering glasses of champagne and then this scene greeted me which only got better as I continued to walk up the hill to the first buffet and car display.

(Sorry they're a little blurry - have to admit, I was rather excited seeing all the luxury vehicles because I love cars and had no idea they would be on display. My photographer, Stefhan Gordon, arrived much earlier than I did which is why the streets aren't as busy in his shots.)

 


 

My dinner mates had recently purchased a Jaguar from Rusnak which is why they were attending, but every type of luxury vehicle was on display.

Speaking of jags, the gift bags of the evening were quite a hit and everyone was wearing them.
I saw one boorish man walking out with ten bags,  but for the most part  everyone was civilized. I love my little kitty which growls when you squeeze it. Don't you love the Jaguar key chain attached to its collar? The cat's meow! The night kept getting better and better. There were multiple buffet presentations of delicious cuisine,
multiple bars with bartenders serving decadent cocktails,   and lots of amazing luxury vehicles to admire.

There was even a special unveiling of the new Rolls Royce "Shadow" by Miss California (one of the few luxury cars I have yet to take a ride in which is on my list), and the new four-door Porsche Panamera (which is now also on my list!) The Rusnak family and Miss California.
   
Here's the composite of the Porsche unveiling for your viewing pleasure - it was awe-inspiring to say the least. The crowd gasped when it was revealed since it's the first ever four-door Porsche and is still 0-60 in 5.2 seconds.
Please excuse the glare - it was rather hard to grab these shots because everyone was crowding around afterward it was so popular! Here's my view of the unveiling to give you a different perspective. The composite above is courtesy Photographer, Stefhan Gordon.

I really liked Rusnak after this evening! Here's some of the sponsors who participated and their mission statement. Isn't that lovely? "Create a positive impact through community involvement, social responsibility and charity." They made a very generous donation to a local charity as part of the evening's events.

During the evening Miss California was very accessible and gracious. She is so friendly I'm happy she's representing our state. Here's us sharing a moment. Isn't she adorable? Now if you can imagine, this was really only the first part of the evening! I saw some people leaving when I arrived probably thinking they had seen it all, but what they missed was the most fantastical fashion show of the entire season by Fashion Designer, Kevan Hall (and I don't say that lightly.)

I'm going to cover the fashion show separately because there's just too many good things to detail and this blog is already rather long.

Part II coming soon!

Oscar info I can share

By Joy A. Kennelly

Hey there,

Seeing as I can't give you my personal experiences too much I thought I'd provide you with a couple of links to The Oscars that will give you a broad overview of upcoming events I may or may not be working on: http://www.oscars.org/events-exhibitions/events/index.html

and some press releases that give you up-to-the-minute information on all the news that's fit to read on the Oscars: http://www.oscars.org/press/pressreleases/

Notice how short and succinct they are? That's what it's all about - cut to the chase. I know the woman who writes all of them and she is one busy lady! I'm enjoying taking a break from that side of the business and just experiencing the fruit of her labor. Thanks Tenni!:)

Okay, that's all. Gotta run.

Actor Domiziano Arcangeli honored by 72nd Annual Southern CA Motion Picture Council

By Joy A. Kennelly

Finally have a moment to catch my breath and upload some pix from the 72nd Annual Southern CA Motion Picture Council's Awards Ceremony honoring Actor Domiziano Arcangeli with a Golden Halo Award for Acting Achievement due to his acting work in Italy and the United States in more than sixty films, ten Television series and numerous theatrical productions, nationally and internationally.

Here's a close-up of the award. Isn't it pretty? 

The Golden Halo Award was presented to Domi by Academy Award Winning Actress Margaret O'Brien (Meet Me In St. Louis, Little Women) who is one of the few actresses in Hollywood to be recognized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame with four stars. If you remember, she played the daughter of Judy Garland in Meet Me in St. Louis. She continues to act to this day.

She's a Board Member I believe along with Judy Garland's only son with Producer Sid Luft named Joey Luft who also was in attendance as was Actor Jerry Maren, one of the original munchkins and recent Hollywood Walk of Star recipient. They all helped cut the beautiful cake which was delicious.

Actor Randal Malone who is the President and Chairman of the Board was the Master of Ceremonies and was delightful.

For those of you old enough to remember the Dick Van Dyke Show (or catch it on cable reruns), Rose Marie, the actress who played the gruff speaking, ballsy female secretary was there and is just the same as that character going strong despite a recent hospitalization. 

 We all were able to sit together and enjoyed numerous talented musical and dancing acts while dining. I don't think I've seen Domiziano this happy ever! He plays bad guys a lot and is always straight faced, but this honor was a nice recognition of his entire career and very appreciated.

 

Actor Patrick Kilpatrick came out to support Domiziano too which was very nice.  Patrick is one of the celebrity guests of tomorrow's Hermosa Shorts Fest Kick Off Party at The Shore Restaurant and Lounge as well.

Here's a pic of he and I to give you an idea of how tall he is seeing as I'm 5' 10"! He plays a lot of bad guys. Can you see why?

And here he is in comparison to Actor Jerry Maren, who has a new book out called Short & Sweet: The Life and Times of a Lollipop Munchkin. Bet you didn't know Jerry was the original Buster Brown, did you?

 
Martin Nolan and Darren Julien of Julien's Auctions were honored with the Philanthropy Award that night too because of their wonderful work supporting the 72nd Annual Southern CA Motion Picture Council over the years with all their silent auctions.

Domiziano's good friends, John, Actress Emma Bering, French Director Jean Veber showed up to support him as well.

Domiziano was so touched to be introduced by Margaret O'Brien and shared a personal story of always watching Meet Me in St. Louis with his mother on Christmas Eve growing up as part of his acceptance speech. He also bought an art deco painting she created to memorialize the evening even more. It's really beautiful and will go quite well in his Hollywood Hills home.

Here's a quick pic of me, Randal and Domiziano prior to his receiving the award.

Actress Kate Linder of The Young and The Restless surprised us because we didn't know she was there till the end of the evening. She and I met during a UCLA Class on how to secure celebrities for your events years back. She's very nice and we always enjoy seeing each other at events.

Overall, this was a really special evening filled with lots of famous legendary Hollywood stars which made it quite fun and memorable. Their next major event is a special Christmas dinner in December so keep your eyes open if you're interested in participating.

And with that, I'll leave you with this last fun picture of the Award-winning Actor of the evening, Mr. Domiziano Arcangeli! Congratulations and wishing you many more!

Onto something a little more fun Domi & me out on the town - finally, right?

By Joy A. Kennelly

What I've been loving about being more vocal about my political beliefs is that it's sussing others out who normally don't say anything either. One friend teasingly (I hope she was teasing!) said she almost defriended me on Facebook when she saw who I was stumping for.

Then she said she thought most publicists were Dems to which I replied, if I only publicized things I personally agreed with life would be very boring and it's a very short-sighted way of doing business.

Another friend expressed concern that I might lose business over being so vocal. Maybe so. However, I don't mind, to be honest. If someone only doesn't want to work with me because of my politics then there's probably other reasons I wouldn't want to represent them either. If people are more evolved than just their politics, then I'm happy to work together.

Take my current Celebrity client, Domiziano Arcangeli, for instance. We're about as diametrically opposed on numerous political and moral issuse as you can get, but we respect and understand each other and appreciate those differences while learning from each other.

Same with many of my other liberal friends whom I deeply love and care about.

Just because someone disagrees with me is no reason not to be friends! That's what makes life interesting! I learn from them and they (sometimes) learn from me.:) If all we focused on were our differences then maybe we wouldn't be friends for as long as we have been, but we have so many other things in common above and beyond politics and religion it makes our friendships/relationships richer and deeper.

I LOVE hearing about the Jewish practices my friend Shana shares with me. I love it. I also love hearing people's opinions about the debate, this race, and race, gender issues in general. I think there's room in this world for all kinds of beliefs and experiences. I also believe we're all allowed to have our own opinions and express them which I will do until the day I die and support everyone else to do so too.

Apparently I'm not the only one to think so either according to this recent NY Times article entitled, Talking Politics in the Office by Journalist Lisa Belkin. Heres an excerpt I especially like which I hope I have followed, but know I probably haven't all the time.

"Jamie and Maren Showkeir, consultants specializing in workplace culture, and the authors of the book “Authentic Conversations: Moving from Manipulation to Truth and Commitment,” have some tips on what to avoid when engaging in political conversation in the office: don’t assume your co-workers share your political views and opinions; don’t abuse your power or position, avoid making politics personal; discuss rather than debate; and try to find common ground."

I do like intelligent discussions, but being battered by someone doesn't feel good. If you have felt battered by me. I'm sorry. Now that I'm more cognizant of this fact I will try to be more balanced. However, I have to admit I did send that girl from my earlier post who sent me 12 pro-Obama newsletters a big fat email with my personal opinions from recent blogs which tipped her over the edge.

I don't mind though because now she's stopped bugging me. LOL Couldn't help myself. :) Last time though I promise. (Unless she pisses me off again.)

In any case, here's some fun pix from the other night's red carpet event up at Les Deux (sp?) in Hollywood against child pornography which was a lot of fun even though it's a very serious subject.

Really helped clear the brain to have some fun and discuss something other than politics. My client Domiziano Arcangeli was interviewed because his art house Italian film, House of Flesh Mannequins, directly relates to this issue.

(The trailer is really gory, sexual and gross because it's a horror so be warned. Very artistic though.:) It's definitely causing a stir in Italy with the Catholic Church. Domi and I laugh all the time that I'm involved with him because of this. Oh well. What can I say? I try to be open-minded about repping artists. However, it's not a film I'll be watching any time soon. He knows it too. We're cool.)

Here's a little behind-the-scenes of what goes on at red carpet events in case you ever wondered.

Domi bumped into his Actor friend, Jeffrey James Lippold, who had been in the Samurai Avenger: The Blind Wolf film with him. We all had fun hanging out together. Isn't he a cutie patootie? Uh oh, I think I'm being a cougar right now. Better pull my claws back in. :)

Domi's Italian friend, Giovanni, came along to keep us company too. He doesn't speak much English, but enjoys hanging out with us because we're always laughing and joking around.
Wouldn't this picture make you LOL? That's what I mean. We always goof around taking pix like Japanese tourists. Sometimes Domi has to tell me to put the camera away because it's too much.:)

We sure had fun that night. Ready for the next event! Have a good one.

Oh, because I've been so consumed with politics I haven't shared the latest and the greatest regarding Free Life International! We just launched a healthy energy drink called Chi3 Energy. You can buy some at my site: www.joykennelly.freelife.com. It's less expensive than buying the straight GoChi Juice and has an ounce of GoChi in it too.

I recommend taking it early in the day though because I was going till 3am the couple of times I drank it. I never crashed which was nice. Just would like to get to sleep earlier!:) Here's a new website designed to answer your questions about the product called: http://www.bestpowerdrink.com/

You can always buy it directly through me, or go to my online website to experience it and they will ship it directly to you: www.joykennelly.freelife.com

What does Chi3 Energy do?

You'll feel alert, focused, and ready to go without the jitters or the sugar crash that can come from drinking high-calorie canned energy drinks. Learn more about Chi3 Energy

What's it for?

There may be other energy drinks, but there's only one king of the mountain, and that's Chi3 Energy. It's the only energy drink powered by GoChi^®, the incredible goji berry super juice that's been clinically shown to increase energy, fight fatigue, and improve mental function and athletic performance. Read Chi3 Energy

What's in it?

Chi3 Energy is scientifically formulated to deliver smooth, long-lasting energy. Metabolism-enhancing B-vitamins and mind-nourishing amino acids are skillfully combined with a healthy splash of green tea and a full ounce of our proprietary GoChi to give you just the right lift. Chi3 Energy Ingredients

Okay, that's all for now. Back to my regularly scheduled day. Just felt like lightening the mood a bit. My back is feeling much better thanks to the great care of my Chiropractor, Dr. Christopher Palmer. He employs active release techniques in addition to traditional chiropractic treatments and it's been working wonders!

I can't wait till I can start wearing heels again, but now I can sit on a wood chair without much pain; I can drive farther and not experience the excruciating neck pain that has been debilitating; I'm sleeping better; my TMJ is improving too.

Helps that I've also been drinking my GoChi Juice again. Great anti-inflammatory. Highly recommend it!

Have a great weekend! Let me know if you want to try some Chi3! I sell it independently, or you can buy it off my website: www.joykennelly.freelife.com. Thanks.

Huckabee, Obama, McCain, AVP's, & The Shore Restaurant and Lounge

By Joy A. Kennelly

Watching the new Huckabee Show - did you know it existed? I didn't till now. Very interesting. Geraldine Ferraro,  Dave Ramsey, and cute Elizabeth Hasselbeck were on it.

I've put a link to Whoopi Goldberg's opinion on racism that Elizabeth counteracts tearfully on The View. It is worth watching if you're curious about another perspective than mine. Dave is actually a Christian financial guy who has a very popular radio program.

Huckabee was asking what everyone recommended for the financial situation which I've not been listening to very closely, but wanted to tell you what type of guests he had on. The VP of Fox Business referred people to the Community Reinvestment Act to see what Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were originally designed to accomplish. Click on the link if you're curious.

This is too cute. Huckabee's closing his show with what sounds like a church band what with all the guitars, doing a cover of Only in America sung a little off-key and not very passionately. Too cute. Go Huckabee. Guess he's clinging to his church roots.

Oh, and because some don't always read comments, I'm reposting some key links a friend sent me that you might not have heard or read before re: Obama's connection to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and his personal pay-out (above others who've been statesmen longer!)

I'm doing it here because generally whatever I link to rises to the top of Google and this is important. Democrats, I dare you to watch and read this then comment:

Explosive Video, Fannie Mae CEO calling Obama and the Dems the "Family" and "Conscience" of Fannie Mae

And from Investor's Business Daily, The Real Culprits In This Meltdown

From a blog called, HotAir - Whose policies led to the credit crisis?

And the Holy Grail of the newspaper world, The New York Times, from September 11, 2003 New Agency Proposed to Oversee Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae

Okay, enough of that. It is Saturday after all, but didn't want to leave that thought from yesterday just hanging there. Oh, and by the way, I really enjoyed hearing Obama speak during the debate last night. Surprised me at his knowledge of foreign relations, but did feel like I was being lectured by a college professor vs. someone with actual life experience as I felt when listening to McCain.

It's going to definitely be interested. Can't wait for the Palin/Biden debate next. I'm becoming my parents - help!

Here's some pix from fun events I've either attended, or thrown recently. The first is last Sunday's AVP's Men's championships with the recent Olympic athletes (whose names I don't know, but enjoyed viewing nonetheless. Oh, you can find out more by clicking on the link. Sorry, not that into sports, just hot guys. Especially shirtless ones. Now do you know why I love living near the beach? lol)

If you scroll down the pix fast enough it's almost you were watching them play!:) I thought this year's seating arrangements for the MB AVP's were the best ever. Lots of available viewing and seating for everyone.

Thank you AVP organizers!

Here's some highlights. One night I hit two back-to-back with a client and then had to dash down to The Shore for another one. Needless to say, I was emotionally, physically and mentally drained by the end of the night.

One particular event was to raise awareness for Project Reina which keeps African American and Latina women and girls HIV/AIDS free through the promotion of education, prevention and wellness. Go to www.projectreina.org for more information.

Actress Gina Ravera (The Closer, ER) started this movement and was on hand to promote the artist's work and her project. If I had known who she was (she's much smaller in person), I would have taken her pic too, but didn't open the press kit till just now. That's a bummer too because I really like The Closer. Oh well...

This was such an elegant event it was really pleasant. Hated to leave.

 

This was The Shore's BMW/Equinox USC v. OSU football game viewing party. Bummer for USC. We're an equal opportunity venue and will be hosting UCLA's Alumni Association on October 16 at The Shore for a wine tasting. All are welcome!

Okay, I think that's all for now!:)

The Shore Restaurant and Lounge for your reading and dining pleasure

the

SHORE

Restaurant and Lounge

 

 

·       COMPANY BACKGROUNDER

·       FACT SHEET

·       CHEF DAVID LINVILLE BIO

·       PRESS RELEASE

 INTERNATIONALLY INSPIRED CA COMFORT CUISINE BY CHEF DAVID LINVILLE AT THE AWARD WINNING SHORE RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE IN HERMOSA BEACH, CA

Numerous Celebrities frequent * Acclaimed Live Entertainment * Special Events Planned

 

Hermosa Beach, CA Opened in March 2006, The Award-Winning Shore Restaurant and Lounge reflects the casual elegance of the South Bay, CA through its beautiful atmosphere, quality live entertainment, Celebrity clientele and full-service fine dining by Executive Chef David Linville, formerly of The Standard Sunset Strip, Viceroy Hotel, St. Regis Hotel and Mastros Beverly Hills. One of Hollywood’s A-List Chefs, Linville now serves award-winning internationally inspired CA comfort cuisine to the South Bay community and will be a featured Chef at Los Angeles Magazine’s October Taste of LA event.

Linville was one of the top private Yacht Chefs in 2007 for numerous A-List Celebrities, and The Shore’s celebrity and local clientele also appreciate his quality, down-home cooking. Since his arrival, The Shore Restaurant has received “Hippest Dining Spot,” “Best Dinner Menu,” and “Best New Dining Establishment” recognition in the South Bay.

The Shore’s upscale mix of creative “fusion” and traditional menu items offer a variety of internationally inspired appetizers, salads, entrees, and side dishes created with authentic ingredients straight from local farmer’s markets and international sources. The basis for Chef David’s cooking always begins with quality products.

            Appetizers include a diverse mix of cuisine designed to appeal to a discerning palate and those seeking lighter fare:  Garlic shrimp sautéed in a compound butter served with goat cheese ciabatta crustinis, baby Crimini mushrooms stuffed with baby spinach, shallots and Applewood smoked bacon; Ginger soy marinated poki diced and tossed with fresh avocado served with homemade Asian shaved pickled cucumbers and fried wontons; Katsu chicken, a Japanese fried chicken served with sticky white rice and homemade ginger pineapple teriyaki sauce; and pan seared filet mignon Carpaccio seasoned with smoked pepper and garnished with aged Balsalmic reduction and fried capers served with mixed greens.

Fresh seasonal salads include: Caesar salad with wasabi Caesar dressing, The Shore salad comprised of Romaine, dried cranberries, toasted pine nuts, and shaved apples with a white balsamic raspberry goat cheese vinaigrette, and homemade mozzarella Caprese salad with organic heirloom tomatoes, served with garden fresh basil and drizzled with an aged Balsamic reduction.

Sophisticated, yet authentic entrees include: Argentine prepared Chimichuri skirt steak served with crispy fries and mixed green salad; Tabasco marinated southern fried chicken and buttermilk Belgium waffles and maple syrup; ginger miso glazed halibut served with a yakisoba noodle stir fry; pacific sea bass served with sautéed heirloom tomatoes, capers and basil Chive truffle oil; pan seared scallops with a sweet corn and huitlacoche mushroom veloute’; and pan seared filet mignon served on top of greens with a port wine reduction sauce.

          Sides include: Imported Old Amsterdam aged gouda mac and cheese, farmer’s market organic seasonal veggies sautéed with French butter tossed with Japanese bread crumbs, roasted Russian and purple Peruvian fingerlings, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, and sautéed Crimini mushrooms.

The Shore offers a complete, diverse international wine list designed to complement any meal with ½ price wine bottles and wine tastings on Tuesdays. A range of all spirits, including top shelf beverages, are also available.

            The Shore is a hotspot for celebrities, sports figures, and Hollywood A-listers.  Guests have included Actor Benicio Del Toro, Mark Cuban and local South Bay resident, Model Rachel Hunter; Singer - Songwriter Alanis Morissette, Oingo Boingo, Devo, Elan, No Doubt, The Bravery, and Dramarama, and sports players from the LA Lakers (Lamar Odom, Luke Walton, Jordan Farmar, former Lakers - Kwame Brown, Ronny Turiaf) the LA Kings (Derek Armstrong, Anze Kopitar, Michael Cammarelli), the Anaheim Ducks (George Parros, Sean O’Donnell), the LA Clippers (Shaun Livingston, Paul Davis), members of the LA Galaxy Soccer Team and the Buffalo Bills, World Champion Surfing brothers, Timmy and Tom Curran, and local resident, Hall of Famer, Warren Moon, who all enjoy the excellent cuisine, the Shore’s well rounded international wine list, attentive servers, and beachside ambiance.

After 10pm, The Shore offers quality live entertainment, dancing and award-winning DJ’s. The Shore’s in-house Music Stylist and Co-Owner, Jason Baran, is responsible for creating the vibe and social scene that has the South Bay jammin’ weekly. With his finger on the musical pulse of Los Angeles, Jason, along with Oren Avineri of Listen Entertainment, books acclaimed musicians and bands that have a national following rarely seen in Hermosa Beach, CA. Musical acts/performers have included: Dirty Heads, Kua Ana, Pigeon John, B Side Players, Naked Rhythm and Ricky Rocks who competes every Thursday with DJ Dini, to name a few. Cover charges vary from $5 to $10 depending on the performer.

Special event hosting is available at The Shore Restaurant and Lounge.  Recent events have included Fundraisers such as the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Executive Lock-up, The South Bay Professional Connection’s Surfrider Benefit, and Project Touch; Professional Industry Events such as The South Bay Professional Connection Hospitality Appreciation Evening, The Hermosa Shorts Festival Kick Off Party, Hughes Aircraft Company Happy Hour, and Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce Mixer; and private events like the Table for Six Dining group, wedding receptions, Christmas and holiday parties, birthday parties, workshops, film shoots, and others.

Future special events include: Nebraska Cornhuskers, New York Jets and Sexy Single Parent Monday Night Football viewing parties, Equinox/BMW USC/OSU Football viewing party on September 25, IAI’s Wine,Women & Wealth Seminar on September 30, LandRover Wine & Cheese Tastings Tuesdays October 7 - 28, UCLA Alumni Association Wine Tasting on October 16, the Third Annual Shore Halloween costume party October 31, and Singles Coach Katherine Bougli’s Be Open to Love Workshop on November 18, with other events to be announced.

The Shore’s 3200 square foot venue combines a chic aesthetic for relaxed dining and a sophisticated lounge experience.  The Shore seats approximately 60 in the dining room, 30 in the bar and lounge, with an additional 34 on the patio. The entire occupancy is 180.

THE SHORE RESTAURATEURS

The Shore Restaurant and Lounge Co-Owner/Manager, Mike Sribney, is an accomplished local South Bay 20 year importer/entrepreneur, and also currently owns the Award-Winning Pedone’s Restaurant in Hermosa Beach. Co-Owner, Dr. Rainer Beck, a former Environmental Scientist and owner of Harvelle’s Blues Club Santa Monica, Trio By the Bay in Manhattan Beach and others, is a 30 year veteran of the restaurant and entertainment business. Co-Owner/Music Stylist, Jason Baran, previously created soundtracks for Lion’s Gate with Joel C. High and owns 5150 Music Management Company, in addition to managing the Shore Restaurant and Lounge’s musical line-up.

HOURS AND LOCATION

The Shore Restaurant and Lounge is open seven nights a week Monday through Friday from 5:00pm until 1:30am, Saturdays from 9:00am -1:30am, and Sundays 10:00am – 1:30am. A complimentary brunch buffet is served on Sundays until 12noon and a special lunch menu is served on the weekend to appeal to the sophisticated sports fan.

The Shore Restaurant and Lounge is located at 1320 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254. For more information, please call 310 376-0414 or review: www.theshorerestaurantandlounge.com.

FACT SHEET

 

CUISINE:               Internationally inspired CA comfort cuisine

 

LOCATION:            1320 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

PHONE:                 310 376-0414

 

EXECUTIVE CHEF:  David Linville

 

CO-OWNERS:        Mike Sribney, Dr. Rainer Beck, and Jason Baran

 PRICE RANGE:       Appetizers: $7 - $13

                                    Main Courses: $15 - $27

                             Complimentary Breakfast Buffet until 12noon on Sundays

 

RESERVATIONS:    Recommended, walk-ins accepted at the bar/lounge. Reservations can be made through Restaurant.com

 

DRESS CODE:        Upscale casual

 

CAPACITY:             The Shore seats approximately 60 in the dining room, 30 in the bar and lounge, with an additional 34 on the patio. The entire occupancy is 180.

 

BAR:                      Full Bar

 

PARKING:              There is a public parking structure directly across the street with street parking available in the vicinity.

 

HOURS:                 Open seven nights a week, Monday through Friday from 5:00pm until 1:30am, Saturday 9:00am – 1:30am and Sunday 10:00am – 1:30am.

 

WEBSITE:              www.TheShoreRestaurantandLounge.com

 

CHEF DAVID LINVILLE 

Chef David Linville grew up in the Central Valley of Northern California near the San Joaquin River where he experienced the typical Tom Sawyer country life. His early experiences in the kitchen were at the side of his grandmother as she used the garden fresh tomatoes and wild mustard greens he brought home from the fields for her to cook with.

Chef David took his first cooking job in a seafood restaurant at the age of 16 and quickly found himself at home. Traveling extensively throughout Europe, living in Amsterdam and on the Gold Coast of Spain a few years later, he absorbed the local foods and flavors. He continues to apply these experiences and foods to his cooking style today.

His background includes LA’s most prestigious restaurants and hotels, such as the Ritz Carlton Marina Del Rey, St. Regis Hotel, Viceroy Hotel Santa Monica, Mastros Beverly Hills and The Standard Hotel on Sunset. He has also worked as a sought after private chef on yachts for some of Hollywood's elite. He currently is the Executive Chef at The Shore Restaurant and Lounge in Hermosa Beach, CA. He resides in Venice Beach, CA.

Chef David’s deep-rooted, down home childhood is quite evident in his cooking style of internationally inspired CA comfort cuisine and his gracious table manner. He firmly believes that fresh quality ingredients combined with passion create a happy table.

Sean Rosenthal, Benicio Del Toro and other hotties...

By Joy A. Kennelly

Everyone keeps searching to see if Sean Rosenthal is Jewish. Now I can't say for sure, but with a last name like that I wouldn't doubt, would you? Anyone watching the Olympics and care to share how he's doing? Go Sean! Click on his name for his bio - just thought I'd help you out in your search.

Speaking of hotties, just learned that last night the incredibly sexy, smokin' hot, extremely talented Actor Benicio Del Toro was hanging out at The Shore and hit Pedone's afterwards. Very cool. No, I mean hot. I don't know what I mean he's got me all aflutter. LOL

And I didn't even see him! But I heard from a very reliable source he was there. Bet you didn't know this, but we've actually had quite a few celebrities dine at The Shore. Sexy places draw sexy people, what can we say?
 

Maybe one of these days I'll share a list of our celebrity guests with you if you're good.

Okay, that's all for now. Just felt like sharing because it made my day to hear the news. Now to go hit the beach. Isn't this the best weather? And the ocean has been simply wonderful lately too.

Gotta love it. Happy Sunday everyone. If I feel in the mood I'll upload today's sermon which was really good. Last weeks' was good too, but it hit a little too close to home and I needed to let it digest before I posted it. Maybe I'll include it too so you can see what I mean. That Pastor Jim Mackinga - he's speaking the truth even when you don't want to hear it!:)

Last night at The Shore's Kick Off Party for the Hermosa Shorts Fest!

By Joy A. Kennelly

Okay, I cheated. I snuck out before uploading the pix to watch some shorts over at the Hermosa Shorts Festival, but I'm back because I remember now why I don't produce short festivals any more. Nothing against the filmmakers or anyone else, I'm just so burnt out after having done that for five years of my life I just can't watch another one no matter how good they are!

That said, I had a GREAT time at the kick off party last night. When I first arrived it was very quiet and I was a little worried, but I shouldn't have been. Before long the place was packed with happy people enjoying all the aps Chef Dave was sending out and all the drinks Mike and Heather were serving.

I was running between the red carpet and the main room all night gathering people together for pix which was fun. Here's some for your enjoyment now, but we do have others coming since they had a photographer stationed at the red carpet who got some great shots:

Who likes Short Shorts? We like Short Shorts! Remember that old commercial?

This is the calm before the storm as event staff waits for filmmakers and other special guests to arrive on the red carpet for their close-up.

Annalise came back and brought a friend to enjoy Chef Dave's cooking after joining us recently for a tasting party for her engineer group's special event consideration.

These guys liked it too. The guy on the left distributes short films and was looking for fresh talent.

Alana and Mandy, just some of the cute waitresses from The Shore. They're the sweetest, nicest girls.

Mike, the bartender, is the nicest guy too. Everyone at The Shore is nice.

 
Tom listens intently to some of the filmmakers while Actor Patrick Kilpatrick does the same in the background.

Mike was busy all night long!

This was a light summertime snack someone ordered - caprese salad anyone?

Hungry? asks Chef Dave. How about some of my signature stuffed mushrooms, filet mignon or salad?

Chef Dave & Melissa Todd, host/model with a new look.

Our Chef David Linville is one bad ass. He does martial arts training six days a week. Don't mess with him!

City Council Member, Kit Bobko, and Tom Kearney.

Me and Kit. He always makes me smile because he's so handsome and nice. Wouldn't you get involved in politics too? Thanks for coming Kit!

Me with Jazz Singer, Joy Rushing. We're the Joy's of Hermosa Beach. She's performed all over Los Angeles and is one of my friends down here.

Host/Model, Melissa Todd, with her best friend whose name unfortunately escapes me. Thanks for coming Melissa!

Chef David Linville, The Shore's Bostonian General Manager, Brian Kelleher, and Hermosa Shorts Festival Director, Tom Kearney

Chef came out of the kitchen to have fun on the red carpet with City Council Member, Michael Keegan, who arrived later and The Shore Co-Owner, Mike Sribney. Michael Keegan owns Manhattan Bread & Bagel over in Manhattan Beach so when you're in need of some of the best, go there.

Below, Mike Sribney (who also owns Pedone's Pizzeria voted Best Pizza in the South Bay by both the Daily Breeze and The Easy Reader) is joined by his lovely wife, Kristina, and Actor Domiziano Arcangeli.

Actor Domiziano Arcangeli, recent recipient of the Golden Halo Award, was surrounded by beautiful women of the Hermosa Shorts Festival.

 Equinox Corporate Executive, Shayline; Actress Melinda Bennett; Kiwanis Member, Pat Love; Volunteer Extraordinary, Vicki Hanson; and Hermosa Shorts Co-Founder, Maura Kearney.

Happy attendees.

Happy waiter.:)

Happy Hermosa Beach Mayor, JR Reviczky, and City Council Member, Pete Tucker and his lovely wife, Sienna all came to support the Hermosa Shorts Festival. Thanks for coming!

 

Happy Actor/Producer, Patrick Kilpatrick with a beautiful fan. Thanks for coming Patrick! He and I have been friends for a long time. He was one of the original board members of my shorts fest, Short Pictures International Film Festival years ago. Very good guy.

Even a happy po po came to check out the Hermosa Shorts Festival. Keep him busy Kristina!:)

Almost all of Hermosa Beach City Council came to show support. Back row - City Council Members, Kit Bobko, Mayor JR Reviczky, Peter Tucker and his wife, Sienna. Front row - Hermosa Shorts Festival Founders, Tom & Maura Kearney, Beach Cities Health District Board Member, Joanne Edgerton (I believe, correct me if I'm wrong),The Shore Co-Owners, Kristina and Mike Sribney and Actor/Producer, Patrick Kilpatrick.

We have another pic with more people that I'll upload once I receive it too ok? Below are the Owners, Jason & Mike, with Kristina, Melissa and Patrick. We all agreed, Jason was the hardest working man of the evening.

 

Former City Council Member/Mayor, Sam Edgerton, even came out to show his support. He sat on Hermosa Beach City Council for 16 years.

Another former City Council Member (and probably Mayor too - sorry I don't remember, but if you tell me Art, I'll change this), Art Yoon, enjoyed receiving the special goody bags Equinox prepared for everyone.

Speaking of Equinox, here's the Equinox team, Veronica, Larry, and Shayline along with The Shore Co-Owner Mike Sribney and his lovely wife, Kristina.

Thank you Larry! Thank you Equinox! I'll be curious to see how many people turn in their golf ball gifts for their free one week pass.

James McKenna entertained everyone acoustically until about 9pm then the dueling drummer/DJ began kickin' it up a notch. After that everyone was dancing and just having a blast. Even the LA Kings came in towards the end. Very nice hunky guys. My camera battery died and I really didn't want to disturb their privacy so it's just as well.

I caught HB Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Carla Merriman, on her way out to snap this shot with Mike and Larry.

Tom did not mind his job as Festival Director one bit last night despite having recently had foot surgery to mend a ripped Achilles I believe. Whatever it is, it was extremely painful. The injury, not posing with these beautiful women. Probably made the pain go away a little more too, right Tom? :)

In the pic above is Tom's surgeon on the left and Roxanne Messina Captor in red, who used to run the SFO International Film Festival, Ken Unger on her right, and her friends, Harold and his wife, on her left.

Roxanne had a film showcased in last year's Hermosa Shorts Festival featuring Harry Shearer and Shelly Long and is good friends with Francis Ford Coppola if I remember correctly. We've been friends for awhile, but I'm tired so bear with me.

Don't you love Larry's shirt? The body is a temple - Attract worshipers. I'll worship you Larry! LOL He's the GM of Equinox and such a great guy. We're going to start doing more events together soon. Can't wait!

Roxanne teaches yoga and other classes at Equinox when she's not busy writing and doing entertainment stuff. I'm sure she's quite good at yoga because she was a dancer all her life too. Very interesting woman.

These folks are fun and interesting too. Tom, Joy, Domiziano, Patrick, Chef, and Maura.

And with this pic, I close.

Hermosa Beach Shorts Festival Founders and Husband and Wife team, Tom & Maura Kearney - some great people who are making Hermosa Beach popular with filmmakers and the world.

Don't forget, this Sunday is a free beach screening of all the best shorts of the festival as soon as the sun goes down. Also, there's a closing night party at the Hermosa Beach Community Center where all the films are screening at 10pm Saturday night.

You know where you'll find me!:)

Have a good one everyone. Hope you are enjoying the Olympics! . Very cool to have so many South Bay residents competing in the Olympics this year too!

Oh, and here's a few links to websites with the results of the International Surf Festival last weekend too in case you're curious: http://www.tbrnews.com/ (The Beach Reporter) and http://www.easyreadernews.com/ (The Easy Reader)

Enjoy the read!

Tonight The Shore hosts the Hermosa Shorts Festival Kick Off Party!

By Joy A. Kennelly

Tonight is the Kick Off Party for the Hermosa Shorts Festival at The Shore Restaurant and Lounge in Hermosa Beach at 7pm. The Shore doesn't close till 1am. Don't forget to come!

Goody bags sponsored by Equinox include a one week's pass to their amazing brand new gym over on Rosecrans and Isis right off the 405. When you go, tell 'em Joy Kennelly sent you. And yes, I do get credit, so do it please!:)

Discounts from Pedone's Pizzeria, Lhea Beauty and Body Collection, The Shore and info on Shops@1601 (which by the way has amazing designer clothing. I don't know why they're only showing candles since that's a very small part of their clothing stores for men and women!) and the Hermosa Shorts Festival are included too.

Could be some additional surprises if certain things fall into place in time. You'll just have to come to find out for yourself! Thank you Joy and Vicki for helping stuff them yesterday!

    Executive Chef David Linville will serve his signature internally inspired CA comfort cuisine from 7:30pm - 9:30pm for filmmakers, VIP's, Sponsors, Hermosa Beach City Officials, Kiwanis members, and all the film lovers planning to attend.

I just had a tasting dinner last night with some guests at The Shore and Chef's food is to die for! Every single time I go Chef creates something new and every single time it's absolutely delicious. Last night's stand out was the Chicken and Belgium Waffles! YUMMY!!!!

I'm addicted to his mushrooms too. I think I have to find a way to exercise with my back injury or I'm going to continue gaining weight quickly. Good thing the ocean is only a block away. I absolutely love floating in the cool water and ducking under waves as I swim out past the breaking water. Pure fun.

No host bar tonight by the way. Please drink responsibly! This is Cougar Mama Joy ready to spank you if you get out of hand. And I do mean it young un's.
    The Kick Off party at The Shore Restaurant and Lounge launches the Hermosa Shorts Festival which runs through Sunday, August 10, 2008 in Hermosa Beach, CA with screenings, workshops and special events including a special beach screening of all the top films on Sunday evening when it gets dark. For more information on the Hermosa Shorts Festival: www.hermosashorts.com or call 310 430-8609.

ABOUT THE SHORE

Opened in March 2006, The Shore Restaurant and Lounge reflects the casual elegance of the South Bay, CA through its beautiful atmosphere and quality dining by Executive Chef David Linville, formerly of The Standard Sunset Strip, Viceroy Hotel and Mastros Beverly Hills.

Many famous celebrities and sports players from the Lakers, LA Kings, LA Clippers, LA Galaxy Soccer Team also enjoy the excellent food menu, well rounded international wine list, and beachside ambiance. After 10pm, The Shore also offers live music, dancing and top quality DJ's. 

The Shore Restaurant and Lounge is located at 1320 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday 5:00pm - 1:00am. Saturday and Sunday 1:00pm - 1:00am. Happy Hour Specials from 5:00pm - 7:30pm. For more information, please call 310 376-0414 and review: www.theshorerestaurantandlounge.com.

I can't get enough of Coldplay's Viva La Vida! What about you?

By Joy A. Kennelly

I don't know what it is about that Coldplay song, Viva La Vida, but it always makes me speed extremely fast with the song loudly blaring with all my windows down.

Every single time.

Especially on quiet streets with 35 mph speed limits - I blast down going around 60 mph. It's like my little rebellion. I can't help it. It's like great music is my speed. Don't tell.:) It has to be the aggressively strumming violins and the chorus where I can sing at the top of my lungs to release stress.

Doesn't hurt to drive a sports car too, but that won't be for long. Plus, that song doesn't come on too often unfortunately... or fortunately.

I heard it on the way to church and then when I got out. Fortunately, it was early and hardly anyone was out on the streets. I promise to stop. Really I do.

I think if I play this song at home I'd drive my neighbor crazy playing it over and over again. Especially when I don't know all the words and only belt out the chorus. Can you relate? There is just something about that song. I just love it. It's kind of primal scream therapy or something.

Now to listen to the rest of the album. I know, what's taking me so long? If I like one song, then I don't want to ruin it with another one till I'm saturated with my favorite first.

Big sigh. It's like cheating on a boyfriend. Not that I have or will. Cheat that is, or have a boyfriend for that matter, but still - I love Viva La Vida and Coldplay!

Now, moving right along. Want to hear what I learned in church today? If not, stop reading, but if you're curious enjoy the read.

The skit was right on target as always - about driving while talking on your cell and the ensuing ticket the dad received that the wife found out about through their innocent young daughter. Too funny! I especially liked it when the dad said, "It's a ridiculous law anyway." To which I said loudly, "Amen" making people laugh.

I hate not being able to talk as I drive. Now I'm afraid to put my mascara and makeup on while driving, paint my toes, shave my legs, eat food, steer with one knee while I put my hair up in a ponytail, or anything at all! Not fair.

(Oh, and for those who don't get my sense of humor - that is sarcasm people.)

Today's sermon by Pastor Jim Mackinga of Bay Cities Community Church is called:

Avoiding the Potholes in Life

James - Practical Christian Living

Part 16

Mistakes We Can Easily Make

1. Hurting Others With Words We Say.

James 4:11a

   ^{11 -12}Don't bad-mouth each other, friends. It's God's Word, his Message, his Royal Rule, that takes a beating in that kind of talk.

I wish a former client would read this and realize that as Pastor Jim said today, "Slander is the revenge of a coward." Slander is defined as, "a malicious, false, and defamatory statement or report: a slander against his good name."

Hopefully the threatening letter I sent will shut her up once and for all. It's not my fault if the public and the media doesn't find someone of interest. It just isn't. Either they like you and want more of you, or not. Brutal truth. I don't understand it either, but that's the breaks with PR folks.

I do the same type of publicity for every client and sometimes they hit, and other times, they just don't. No matter how much I want them to, or will them to, or how hard I pitch. Especially when they stop right when they should be pushing forward because they're at a tipping point, but run out of money. Oh well.

PR can be somewhat luck of the draw - if you want guaranteed placement... Buy advertising.

But I digress. Just a sore point that's all. I'm not innocent of talking badly about people either, but it does hurt when you think someone would be happy with everything you accomplished together (which was a lot of work to get her to the point she is today - trust me!)

What's weird is that I've generally only had this trouble with certain female artists. Not all, just some who think they're more than they really are.

Oh dear, is that talking bad about someone? Darn it. It's hard isn't it? Okay, this really is all. I promise.

Thinking lovely thoughts, lovely thoughts, lovely thoughts...

Ephesians 4:31:

   ³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.

Colossians 3:8:
⁸ But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language.

(Now Pastor Jim was meddling. Just kidding. I forgot the Bible doesn't want us swearing. Duh! Just a little reminder that Christians are supposed to live differently than the world.)

2. Improper Response to God's Law & Word.

James 4:11b

If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God’s law. But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you.

Matthew 22:35-40:
³⁵ One of them, an expert in religious law, tried to trap him with this question: ³⁶ “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?”

   ³⁷ Jesus replied,

“‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’^{[a] 38} This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’^{[b] 40}

The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

Now this chapter was very convicting because as Pastor Jim pointed out, if we really are doing God's will, we will view everyone through God's eyes and love them as He does. Jim did admit it's harder with some people than others. Truer words have never been spoken. Ha!

3. Have a Wrong View of God Himself.

James 4:12:
¹² God alone, who gave the law, is the Judge. He alone has the power to save or to destroy. So what right do you have to judge your neighbor? (God doesn't need your help judging. Get it? LOL)

James 2:8:

   ⁸ Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”^[a]

Philippians 2:3-4:

   ³ Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. ⁴ Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

This verse is the hardest to live out, but I'm trying. Care to join me?

How To Be Careful

1. Continue to be concerned with your words.
2. Learn to Submit to God's word.
3. Understand who's really in control.
4. Stop arrogance in every way you can.

Okay, that's all for today. May the reading of God's word bless and keep you until we meet again. Isn't that a nice closing? I've only heard it in Presbyterian churches, and I like it.

Happy Sunday! Now to get some work done.

I'm excited The Shore Restaurant and Lounge has a bunch of cool events coming up which I need to prep for. Just met with the organizers of the Hermosa Beach Shorts Fest and they will be hosting their Kick Off Party at the Shore on August 7 from 7pm - closing.

Plus,Actor Domiziano Arcangeli's Golden Halo Award for Acting Achievement from the Southern CA Motion Pictures Arts Council is right around the corner, August 4. Oy!

And you're all invited to everything too ok? See ya there! 

Actor Domiziano Arcangeli to Receive Golden Halo Award for Acting Achievement

 

ACTOR DOMIZIANO ARCANGELI TO RECEIVE GOLDEN HALO AWARD FOR

ACTING ACHIEVEMENT

AT THE 72nd ANNUAL SOUTHERN CA MOTION PICTURES COUNCIL AWARDS DINNER

AUGUST 4, 2008 FROM 7PM – 10PM AT SPORTSMAN LODGE IN STUDIO CITY

Los Angeles, CA , Italian Actor Domiziano Arcangeli (Do-meet-zee-ahno Ark-an-jelly) to be honored with a Golden Halo Award for Acting Achievement during the 72^nd Annual Southern California Motion Pictures Council’s Awards Dinner held Monday, August 4, 2008 at the Sportsman Lodge in Studio City, CA from 7:00pm – 10:00pm.  Academy-Award Winning Actress and Hollywood Icon, Margaret O’Brien, will present Arcangeli with his award. Past acting honorees include such notables as Actors Charlton Heston, Burt Lancaster, and Robert Mitchum.

The Evening in Paris themed event includes a silent auction, gourmet dinner, and Philanthropy Award honorees in addition to honoring Actor Domiziano Arcangeli.  Actor Randal Malone, current president and chairman of the board of the Southern California Motion Picture Council, will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Confirmed celebrities attending include: Actress Rose Marie, Actor Jerry Maren, Actress Jayne Meadows, among others.

            Actor Domiziano Arcangeli is being honored for his acting work in Italy and the United States in more than sixty films, ten television series and numerous theatrical productions, nationally and internationally.

             Arcangeli has performed in over seven productions this year alone. This past spring, Arcangeli starred in the big budget Martial Arts action thriller, SAMURAI AVENGER: THE BLIND WOLF, which was shot in Tokyo, Japan and Los Angeles, CA. Arcangeli is currently producing and starring in his own feature film, THE HOUSE OF FLESH MANNEQUINS, an art house thriller shot  in Rome, Italy and Los Angeles, CA.

            Additional film appearances include a cameo in the Lion’s Gate comedy STILL WAITING, and a co-starring role in the horror film, FRANKENSTEIN RISING, to name a few. Domi’s recent television appearances include a lead role in the HBO comedy IS NUDITY REQUIRED? and roles in KCAL9 Biblical television series, IT IS WRITTEN.

Arcangeli began his acting career at the age of thirteen in Italy performing in The Good Soldier for Academy Award winning director Franco Brusati, which led to work with such ‘Masters of European Cinema’…Federico Fellini (Intervista), and Liliana Cavani (Francesco). He has also worked with other celebrated Italian directors which include Tinto Brass (Paprika), Umberto Lenzi (Black Demons), Lucio Fulci and Bruno Mattei (Venetian Caprice).

           Some of Arcangeli’s better known U.S. television credits include Showtime’s SIN’S KITCHEN and the Zalman King's series, CHROMIUM BLUE. He has also co-starred alongside Dennis Hopper in DEVIL’S HIGHWAY, and in Spanish cult director Jesus Franco’s film FLORES DE PERVERSION. Theatre credits include a world tour of Lev Dodin’s THE VISIONARY.

In 2007, Arcangeli launched a fan Web site, www.domizianoarcangeli.com, with his film credits, bio, headshots, demo reel, and additional publicity pictures and links for his fans. His professional credits can be seen here on IMDB.

            The Southern California Motion Pictures Council Awards Ceremony honoring Actor Domiziano Arcangeli with a Golden Halo Award for Acting Achievement takes place Monday, August 4, 2008 from 7:00pm – 10:00pm at the Sportsman Lodge located at 12833 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, CA  91604  (818) 755-5000.  Dinner reservations are $25 per person and can be made via phone: 626 794-1968.

 

Girls just want to have fun (including Kathy Griffin...)

By Joy A. Kennelly

I don't know what those Greeks put in my iced coffee today, but it's 4:30am and I'm wide awake! It's the only thing I can think of. Just teasing. Or am I? That, plus the fact that I totally overdid my fun today and my back is telling me so in no uncertain terms. I'm waiting for the two Ibuprofen to kick in to put me to sleep.

Backs are so weird. When you're feeling good and not injured, you never know it's there. However, once you're hurt, then it feels like a hot burning rod that says, Here I am. Don't sit there. Wait, don't lie like that. No, that's not right either. Stop it. You're hurting me! OUCH! OUCH!

OY VEY!!!

Fortunately, I will have relief in the morning when I visit the doctor's office. Oh wait, it is morning. I don't think I've ever in my life stayed up this late except for..., oh let's not go there. Memories, like the corners of my mind. Is that the verse? I think I'm becoming delirious. Just kidding.

What totally cracked me up, is here it was 3:30am in the morning and since I'm not sleeping I think, let's see what all the other insomniacs watch. Lots and lots of informercials, but then, I flip to Bravo and guess who was on?

My new best friend, Kathy Griffin! I can not even believe it. I can't get away from that redhead. She was just what the doctor ordered. She's my Oprah. You know how other people turn on Oprah to escape their life? Well, I'm watching Kathy to escape my pain. Thank you Ms. Kathy Griffin.

Thank you too, for bleeping out the bad words. Although I have to admit, I did swear during a recent Hermosa Beach Planning Commission meeting which was televised, so I'm not innocent either. However, it's much more pleasant to watch your show sans the F bombs. Now if you could only teach Chris Rock to clean up his act too.

Wouldn't it be funny if someone washed out all the celebrities mouth's who swore on TV? Think of all the lives that could be changed by cleaner airwaves - young kids growing up realizing that the F word isn't an adjective. Teen-age boys realizing that the F word doesn't signify making love. 20 somethings the same thing. 30 somethings same thing. 40 somethings I don't know. Our whole world might have an expanded vocabulary!

I AM SO TIRED! Why can't I sleep? I'm telling you. Don't order Greek iced coffees if any one ever offers you one ok? Trust me, it's murder. My body is so tired, but my mind is racing a 100 mph. TURN OFF PLEASE! Generally whenever I've not been able to sleep before, I blog and then my mind goes calm and I can sleep.

So, back to Kathy. So, here I am, 3:30am in the morning watching Kathy go to a Bear convention. Now when I first heard the news, I thought it was for people who get off dressing up in bear costumes which is funny and weird as it is, but it's not that. It's gay men who look like bears.

Now that really is Life on the D list. Too funny.

Now what was so hilarious about this one is that Steve Woz, her beau (you know, the guy who created Apple Computers with the other Steve), actually looks like a bear himself and the bear gays were into him! Woz is such a crack-up because he's so brilliant and yet so naive it's really endearing. She kept calling him the Billionaire bear. Wouldn't you like to take him home with you?

I now see why Kathy likes him and vice versa. She's very smart. He's very smart. He's not phased by her act. She's not phased by his wealth. He accepts her for who she is. She accepts him for who he is. Isn't that what we all really want after all? They're adorable together.

I also learned why Tom, her male assistant, always looks so odd. He plucks out his top eyelashes! No wonder! I thought it was because he just looks bug eyed, but now that I know this... Makes total sense. Nothing against you Tom. You're a good man, but you have to know this isn't helping your appearance.

I should talk. I pull hairs out of my eyebrows just for the hell of it when I'm too lazy to do it properly. I figure I'm so blonde no one can really tell what my brows look like anyway, but every so often there's these little gaps that show up when I put color on them.

Stop looking at me! It's really not that noticeable, but since Tom shared his beauty secret, I felt I should share mine too. I'm bonding. Don't try this at home.

Now if these stupid Ibuprofen I just took would only kick in. I've been trying not to take any drugs because I find when I do, then I really over do it because I don't know when I'm hurting my back as easily. When I'm not, then I do. However, I'm trying to sleep so hopefully this will kick in soon. I really must get some Motrin and GoChi Juice asap.

GoChi Juice is a natural anti-inflammatory and also helps your sleep. When I was drinking it before I felt really good and slept really well. Now, without it. OUCH! Insomnia! However, I'm trying not to complain because who wants to hear someone going on and on about this? I don't. I bet you don't either.

But if it bugs you so much, stop reading ok? I'm not paying you right? Sorry, feeling a little grouchy. Meow. Hiss...

Okay, I think that's all I wanted to say. I just really wanted to have some fun today because I'm so tired of not being able to live my normal life since this accident. Guess I really need to baby myself which I don't like doing.

Oh, and nothing against the Greeks. I'm just teasing. I'm also just teasing when I refer to my friend as a Desperate Housewife. She laughed so so should you ok? Life's easier when you can laugh at yourself. Right Kathy?

Okay, time to try to sleep again. Opa!

South Bay Beach Volleyball Olympic news, funny Kathy Griffin clips and ironic MB sign...

By Joy A. Kennelly

Now, if you've been reading my blog for awhile, you know I love nothing better than a guy who plays volleyball because then they get this awesome V-shaped bod. Well, you'll be happy to hear that one of South Bay's very own hot vball bods is actually now an Olympic athlete set to compete in Beijing!

AVP player, Sean Rosenthal, is doing us all proud and ready for his Chinese close-up this August. Here's a more serious article to give you more details on him as a player. Enjoy!

Also, I've had more time to ponder little Chloe's comment and Billvie's comment too regarding my new dearest friend, Kathy Griffin. Just teasing, I've never met her, but since she does a reality show don't we all know everything about her?

Well, I did some digging and found some very funny clips of Kathy Griffin & Anderson Cooper for you to watch if you need to laugh for whatever reason. Also, if you don't know who she is, then watch and learn.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmYWaCF5YFA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdiwDezY6iM&feature=related

I was trying to figure out why I like her so much and then it hit me. We both like making fun of situations and people that others normally won't go there. For example, driving down the street today in Manhattan Beach there was a banner hanging that said something about the upcoming Jewish Family Festival featuring the Amazing African Acrobats.

Now to me, that was absolutely hilarious. To someone else who doesn't share my twisted sense of humor, they're not going to see the humor in that multi-cultural, all embracing banner posted in the middle of whitesville USA. However, me and my Jewish friend Shana - we think that's hilarious.

I know, it's the small things in life. Or another racially funny thing that happened on the 4th of July that I really can't share here because it's too true, but extremely funny. Everyone would laugh, but just in case there's another Chloe out there who doesn't get my sense of humor...

Just trying to be a good girl.

I've been thinking why have I been so bitchy lately when I'm writing? Then I realized it's because I'm in pain from this stupid car accident that wasn't my fault and I'm taking it out on everyone else as a result. Having fun at Kathy Griffin's expense made me feel better for some odd reason. Go figure.

However, I do need to clarify that I do find Kathy attractive and was totally teasing about the Dame Edna look-a-like question. She, for one, is a very attractive red head. Conan O'Brien? Not so attractive. Once again, my sick twisted sense of humor. Are you laughing yet? OY!

Tonight I had to drive to Hollywood to pick something up (grimacing all the way) and as I was stopped at Kings Road and Sunset this blinding light hit me from a nearby video billboard. I couldn't figure out what was happening and glanced up only to see Kathy Griffin's commercial for her Bravo show Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List beaming down at me.

Thinking, okay, that's a sign (literally and figuratively), right then I almost get hit by a fire truck that is barreling down Sunset, horns wailing and careening wildly up Kings Road and almost into me because the corner was too tight! Fortunately, I dodged that bullet and got the hell out of dodge asap. Whew! That was a close one.

This is why if/when I buy a different car, it is definitely not going to be another sports car. I'm done with small cars. I'm a tall woman. People see me when I walk around or enter a room, especially if I wear heels. I'm not used to not being seen which happens all the time in this car despite it being red. Annoying! And dangerous. Enough!

So, if I happen to be a little more snarky than usual, please bear with me. You would be too if your mornings often comprised of laying on hot packs in order to get your butt, back and neck functioning again. Or having a chiropractor making adjustments for an accident that wasn't your fault. I can't say that enough. NOT MY FAULT and damn if I'm not livid.

Keep praying. When you do, I don't feel the pain as much. Really, seriously. I feel better and calmer about this whole situation for some weird reason. That's why I'm asking again. Miles, if you're reading this, pray too dammit. Just teasing ya. Pray if you want to, pray if you want to. (sung to the tune of It's my party...)

That's all for now. I hope this makes sense. It's late. I'm tired, but just felt I needed to make amends to the beautiful, talented, and absolutely hilarious (potty-mouth, blasphemous) Kathy Griffin.

Oh yeah, almost forgot to tell you. So then I'm driving a little further down Sunset and there's another billboard (non-video this time) with Kathy Griffin staring down at me with mascara running down her face as she's crawling down the red carpet for her Emmy or Grammy - I'm forgetting which.

TOO FUNNY! I can't get away from this woman. Maybe I'm meant to work with her as a publicist because I can be just as snarky as her and get her sense of humor. You go girl. We all love ya babe, just enough with the religious jokes ok? At least of Christian faith. Make fun of kabbahal (however it's spelled)- Madonna's giving you enough material isn't she? Go for it!

Now I'm crossing a line. I'm tired and I'm in pain. Is that a good enough excuse? Okay, no, you're right.

No religion jokes at all ok Kathy? You really don't want God finding you not funny...

Good night everybody.

Bummer for Jason from The Bachelorette - LOVE Frank Nicotero's wrap-up

By Joy A. Kennelly

I love taking quick breaks to watch Yahoo's Frank Nicotero's PrimetimeInNoTime wrap up of the TV shows either I caught the night before, or missed and can catch up with Frank because he's such a nerdy funny guy that he's cute to me.

Watching him makes me want to pinch his cheeks, rub his developing bald spot, laugh at his corny jokes and poke his soft stomach to make him giggle like a Pillsbury Doughboy, he's that nerdy cute. Check out his blog page because in that pic, he cleans up good.

What can I say? Funny men make my heart melt.

I loved his wrap up of The Bachelorette this morning which is why I just had to share. Catch it here to see what I'm talking about if you missed the "DRAMATIC" conclusion (sarcastic humor for those who don't understand when I'm trying to make you laugh) to the race for DeAnna Marie Pappas' heart.

That's my other dirty little secret that I watch when I'm home. The Bachelorette. I know, goofy, but I love it. Makes me want to go to the Bahamas! I also watched Shayne and the English bloke Matt's love affair - did anyone else think that Shayne looks better with bangs and her beau looks better with hair? They're still cute, but...

Glad to see they're a little heavier too. Makes me feel better.:) Hear, hear for normal size people on TV!

I watch this show because I'm a sucker for romance and love watching guys act like fools for love. What can I say? I must say that Jason is such a cutie and good guy (the guy who got dumped for those of you who aren't into the show and curious), that I'm sure if he accepts the usual invitation to come back on and find love you better believe he'll have tons of women lining up for the chance to marry him.

What a wonderful guy! Where are more of those kinds of guys? Single women in Hermosa Beach want to know! I know, they're not easily found if you're staying home watching the boob toob, but they haven't been found hitting any of the local drinking establishments either. I bet Jessie would have been found hanging out here though! LOL Gotta love the snowboarders and surfers right?

Maybe at Bay Cities Community Church? No, haven't seen anyone that cute and single there in quite awhile. All the good ones who go there are taken! OY!

Oh well, there's always tonight right? Gotta get back to what I was doing, but had to share because I've been thinking this about Franky baby for quite some time. Also, glad DeAnna found love! Gives me hope.

Big romantic sigh...:)

Now to sit quietly and wait for the big televised Jessie/DeAnna wedding that's bound to happen knowing the producers of this show and their desire to milk this stuff for all it's worth. 

Bigger romantic sigh...

How about a Bachelor who's into Cougars show producer guys?

Now that's TV!!!

'Aint love grand?

My client, Actor Domiziano Arcangeli, has won the Golden Halo Award for Acting!

By Joy A. Kennelly

I just have to share this wonderful news that my client, Actor Domiziano Arcangeli, has just been selected to receive the Golden Halo Award for Acting by the Southern California Motion Picture Council this August, 2008.

I just learned the news and have nothing more than that to report right now, but as soon as I have more information, you better believe I will be posting it here!

Congratulations Domiziano! You deserve it!

I'm a Christian, but I enjoy Kathy Griffin's humor (except for...)

By Joy A. Kennelly

One of my dirty little secret pleasures is watching D-Lister, Kathy Griffin and her "Emmy-Award Winning TV Show" Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List. I know, surprise, surprise. I just love out there women who push the envelope and tell stories on celebrities that their publicists would kill to squelch. It totally cracks me up!

Plus, her gay following is hilarious. Probably the main reason she's such a huge success, right? That and because she's willing to offend people so completely. The only thing that I can't get behind is her railing against Jesus. Granted, knowing her sense of humor, it's just for shock value, but still...

I can't find the email to share with you, but my mom sent me an email filled with famous people who said similar things and ended up dead. John Lennon I remember, the rest, I forget. Wish I could find it. It was shocking to see how many famous people died.

Don't mess with Jesus Red!:)

Does anyone else think she looks like a younger prettier red head Dame Edna? Doesn't she? Her mom totally reminds me of my little mom which makes me laugh when she's on screen. My mom doesn't drink at all like that, but she's the same size (kinda) and funny too.

I think CNN's Andy Cooper (Anderson Cooper to you byatch), looked like he was almost afraid of what Kathy was going to say next in their New Year's Eve episode together, but was totally loving the fear! I think he must secretly love funny bad girls. I'm over here Andy!!! LOL

I can NOT even believe she's dating one of the greatest minds of our century and billionaire, the co-inventor of Apple Computers, Steve "Woz" Wozniak. I loved how she snuck a hair cut on him on live TV. Totally funny.

Other than the swearing and Jesus bashing, I think Kathy is hilarious. What about you?

Oh, and if you're curious... I don't write about everything in my personal life. Got keep some of it private, right? So, if you want to date me, don't worry I won't write about you (unless you're a jerk because then I can mock you.:)

Just thought I'd share!:)

SBPC's Surfrider Benefit/Tasting Party at The Shore hosted by She's Got the Look Finalist, Melissa Todd

By Joy A. Kennelly

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 
THE SOUTH BAY PROFESSIONAL CONNECTION AND THE SHORE RESTAURANT TASTING PARTY BENEFIT  BY CHEF DAVID LINVILLE RAISED MONEY AND AWARENESS FOR SURFRIDER FOUNDATION 

TV Land’s She’s Got the Look Finalist, Melissa Todd, Hosted

 South Bay, CA--- The Shore Restaurant’s Chef David Linville and Co-Owners, Jason Baran  and Dr. Rainer Beck, along with South Bay Professional Connection Founder, Joy A. Kennelly,   co–hosted a tasting party benefiting Surfrider Foundation during an evening of networking, music, internationally inspired CA comfort cuisine, environmentalism and beauty in Hermosa Beach, CA at The Shore Restaurant on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 from 5:30pm – 8:30pm.

TV Land’s She’s Got the Look Model Finalist, Melissa Todd,  hosted the evening and interviewed attendees, Chef David Linville,  Surfrider Environmental Coordinator, Alan Walti,  and others on camera, and announced winners of the evening’s raffle prizes which included a $50 Dinner for Two to The Shore Restaurant, a designer dress donated by Luna G’s Stylist,  Greycie  Baran,  and Spyder beach chairs donated by Surfrider Foundation.

    Chef David Linville served numerous internationally inspired CA comfort cuisine appetizers during the tasting party with the Parmesan crusted New Zealand lollipop lamb chops in port wine reduction as the hands down favorite, and the Crab Cakes served with cream sauce a close second. Guitarist James McKenna played acoustically throughout the evening.

Surfrider Foundation South Bay Chapter Chairperson, Craig Cadwallader and Environmental Coordinator, Alan Walti, explained Surfrider’s mission and encouraged guests to speak out in favor of banning the use of plastic bags due to the negative environmental impact.  $500 was raised from entry fees and t-shirt sales for the charity.

Curly Hair and Color Specialist, Kym Chartrand of Maximus Salon in Hermosa Beach, sponsored the networking contest’s goody bag prize which guests: Independent Producer, Ed Sanders; Senior VP Wachovia Securities, Mike Girardi; Skychick, Ramona Cox;  Restaurant Consultant, John Bowler;  and Manhattan Beach Resident, Colleen  First; Paige & Coleman Interior Designer, Miriam Paige; Strong Project Sales Manager, Mike Pochepan; Chiropractor, Chris Ullman;    Creative Director, Hermosa Shorts Festival, Tom Kearney;  Manhattan Beach Stylist, Victoria Coleman; and  others enjoyed. Actor/Producer Patrick Kilpatrick was delayed casting his film, Vain Attempt, and Fitness Model, Brenda Kelly's flight delay prevented her from attending. 

ABOUT THE SHORE

Opened in March 2006, The Shore Restaurant and Lounge reflects the casual elegance of the South Bay, CA through its beautiful atmosphere and quality dining by Executive Chef David Linville,  formerly of The Standard Sunset Strip, Viceroy Hotel and Mastros Beverly Hills. Dining at The Shore allows guests to feel relaxed and catered to as if transported to a faraway locale while enjoying fresh, internationally inspired CA comfort food. 

Many famous celebrities and sports players from the Lakers, LA Kings, LA Clippers, LA Galaxy Soccer Team also enjoy the 11 plasma/projection screens, well rounded international wine list, and beachside ambiance.  After 10pm, The Shore also offers live music, dancing and top quality DJ's. For more information, please review: www.theshorerestaurantandlounge.com or call 310 376-0414.

THE SOUTH BAY PROFESSIONAL CONNECTION

The South Bay Professional Connection’s (SBPC) mission is to promote the interests of the South Bay as a whole to the media, the public, businesses, and residents. SBPC provides a wide variety of community, professional, social and business opportunities for professional groups, companies, and others interested in connecting with South Bay businesses, residents, visitors, and cultural, entertainment and educational institutions.

South Bay Professional Connection achieves these goals through membership, special events, a comprehensive calendar of events, local, state and national government advocacy, public-private partnerships, and public relations/marketing for members.

Inquiries:

Joy A. Kennelly

The Joy Writer PR & Marketing  (310) 714-2077 thejoywriterpublicity (at) gmail (dot) com

South Bay Professional Connection Surfrider Benefit at the Shore adds new celebrity guests!

MEDIA ALERT

 WHAT: The South Bay Professional Connection (SBPC) announces a Tasting Party at The Shore Restaurant featuring Executive Chef David Linville’s menu of fresh, internationally inspired California comfort food from 5:30pm – 8:00pm on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 in Hermosa Beach, CA. TV Land’s “She’s Got the Look” finalist, Melissa Todd, a Redondo Beach native, will host the evening and raffle drawing. Goody bags will be given to the top 20 winners of the SBPC networking questionnaire contest open to all attendees. 100% of the $20 suggested entry fee donation will be given to The Surfrider Foundation. (www.surfrider.org)

 WHO: Chef David Linville, TV Land’s She’s Got the Look Finalist, Melissa Todd, and special guests, Fitness Model Brenda Kelly, and Actor Patrick Kilpatrick

WHEN: Tonight, Wednesday, June 25, 2008 5:30pm – 8:00pm

WHERE: The Shore Restaurant 

1320 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 www.theshorerestaurantandlounge.com

WHY: The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches.  

The South Bay Professional Connection’s (TSBPC) mission is to promote the interests of the South Bay as a whole to the media, the public, businesses, and residents.

For more information, please contact Publicist, Joy A. Kennelly 310 714-2077

#END#

 

 

 

 

South Bay Professional Connection (SBPC) Announces June 25 Surfrider Benefit at The Shore with TVLand's She's Got the Look, Melissa Todd, hosting

By Joy A. Kennelly

THE SOUTH BAY PROFESSIONAL CONNECTION (SBPC) ANNOUNCES A TASTING PARTY AT THE SHORE RESTAURANT IN HERMOSA BEACH, CA ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25, 2008 from 5:30PM – 8:00PM

Hosted by TV Land’s “She’s Got the Look” Finalist, Melissa Todd; Evening benefits The Surfrider Foundation

South Bay, CA The South Bay Professional Connection (SBPC) announces a Tasting Party at The Shore Restaurant featuring Executive Chef David Linville’s menu of fresh, internationally inspired California comfort cuisine from 5:30pm – 8:00pm on Wednesday, June 25, 2008 in Hermosa Beach, CA.

TV Land’s “She’s Got the Look” finalist, Melissa Todd, a Redondo Beach native, will host the evening and raffle drawing. 100% of the $20 suggested entry fee donation will be given to The Surfrider Foundation. Goody bags will be given to the top 20 winners of the SBPC networking questionnaire contest open to all attendees.

The Shore’s Executive Chef Dave’s Tasting menu includes: Garlic Shrimp sauteed in compound butter with goat cheese crustinis; Crimini Mushrooms stuffed with spinach, shallots and smoked bacon; a Greek Trio served with hummus, tapenade, tiziki and toasted pita; Ginger Soy Marinated Poki served with shaved Japanese pickled cucumbers and fried wontons; Buttermilk and Tabasco marinated Southern Fried chicken with Belgium waffles and maple syrup; Parmesan crusted New Zealand lollipop lamb chops in port wine reduction; Crab Cakes served with Dijon cream sauce, and Mac & Cheese with Amsterdam imported cheese enhanced by a well-rounded international wine list. “It’s all about the food,” says Chef Dave. “I love the South Bay because people care more about enjoying my food than they do about being seen.”

An experienced TV host/model, Melissa  Todd, will host the raffle offering a $50 Gift Certificate to The Shore, a designer dress donated by local retailer Luna G’s Personal Stylist, Greycie Baran, among other items. Melissa will be available for guest’s questions and comments about her appearance on TV Land’s show, “She’s Got the Look,” throughout the evening.

Surfrider Foundation information will be available for interested guests to review and additional donations will be accepted throughout the evening.

The Shore is located at 1320 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 and is open Monday through Friday: 5:00pm - 1:45am and Saturday and Sunday: 1:00pm - 1:45am. Executive Chef David Linville, formerly with Standard Hotel Sunset Strip, Viceroy Hotel, Mastros Beverly Hills, and St. Regis Hotel, offers an internationally inspired California comfort cuisine menu. For more information, please review: www.theshorerestaurantandlounge.com or call 310 376-0414.

ABOUT THE SOUTH BAY PROFESSIONAL CONNECTION

The South Bay Professional Connection’s (TSBPC) mission is to promote the interests of the South Bay as a whole to the media, the public, businesses, and residents. TSBPC provides a wide variety of community, professional, social and business opportunities for professional groups, companies, and others interested in connecting with South Bay businesses, residents, visitors, and cultural, entertainment and educational institutions.

ABOUT MELISSA TODD

“She’s Got the Look” model, Melissa Todd, a sexy 38-year-old originally from Redondo Beach, CA, is a finalist on TV Land’s new series, in collaboration with Wilhelmina Models, Inc., which seeks to discover a sophisticated, beautiful and confident woman 35 or older to become the next great supermodel. Prior to her TV Land appearance, Melissa enjoyed an active hosting career as an on-camera host for the Hallmark Channel, Toyota Corp., LA Fitness and a PBS cooking show among others, in addition to commercial & film appearances. She has also graced the covers of Shape, Muscle and Fitness Magazines.

ABOUT THE SURFRIDER FOUNDATION

The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of our world’s oceans, waves and beaches. Founded in 1984 by a handful of visionary surfers in Malibu, California, the Surfrider Foundation now maintains over 50,000 members and 80 chapters worldwide. http://www.surfrider.org or call Nancy Hastings 310 995-7873.

ABOUT THE SHORE

Opened in March 2006, The Shore Restaurant and Lounge reflects the casual elegance of the South Bay, CA through its beautiful atmosphere and quality dining by Executive Chef David Linville, formerly of The Standard Sunset Strip, Viceroy Hotel and Mastros Beverly Hills. Dining at The Shore allows guests to feel relaxed and catered to as if transported to a faraway locale while enjoying fresh, internationally inspired CA comfort cuisine.

Many famous celebrities and sports players from the Lakers, LA Kings, LA Clippers, LA Galaxy Soccer Team also enjoy the 11 plasma/projection screens, well rounded international wine list, and beachside ambiance. After 10pm, The Shore also offers live music, dancing and top quality DJ's. For more information, please review: www.theshorerestaurantandlounge.com or call 310 376-0414.

(Look for our scallop ad in the local papers!)

Actress Maria Rangel at our Special Pre-Valentine's Day Party 2/7!

Now, does Actress Maria Rangel look familiar? HOT!!! Gotta love the Latinas! Watch out Eva - there's another hottie on the loose...

(Marc Cherry, doesn't Eva need an evil sister or cousin on Desperate Housewives? Here's your girl!)

You might recognize Maria as one of top finalists from NBC's Age of Love hit reality show where 40 year olds competed against 20 year olds for the 30 year old tennis champ, Mark Philippoussis' love.

Her spunky, outspoken nature fueled the show's popularity last summer. Maria shocked the world when she made the bold decision to bow out of the show when she realized he wasn't the one for her. Women everywhere cheered!

Maria's bold attitude and love of life has inspired and empowered women everywhere with her inspirational message: 'A woman's worth' is never determined by winning a man's love.

Which is why I've invited her to participate in our Pre-Valentine's Day Party - I love her attitude!

Come talk to her about her experiences on the show, learn what's she's working on now, take a picture with her and collect her autograph (if that's what you do.)

Maria looks forward to meeting you!

Join us at Spa Riviera on
Thursday, February 7, 2008

6pm – 9pm

                            1611 South Catalina Ave., Lower level – L40, Redondo Beach, CA

(Corner of Catalina and Avenue I –free parking underneath)

Special Guest Appearance by Actress Maria Rangel, Renowned Microdermabrasion Specialist, Tony Cutrona, & Clarisonic skincare demonstrations, New GoChi – Himalayan Goji juice tastings, and lots of free Giveaways too!

 Enjoy Appetizers by Lou-e-Luey’s Restaurant

And

Delectable Valentine’s Day Desserts courtesy of Chef Melinda

 
RSVP to 310 316-2888

What an upset game today, eh? And other musings

By Joy A. Kennelly

I'm not into football at all, but today's Super Bowl game was very exciting. It's great to see the best of the best go against each other now that I understand there are two leagues. (Hey, I'm blonde, give me a break!)

Too bad the Patriots' coach was such a poor loser. Click here for a sports guy's perspective from Yahoo.
This site is even more interesting... A link to all the Super Bowl Commercials! Gotta focus on what's most important right? Just kidding.

It was fun to get out to a local party and see my good friend Brenda, but after so little sleep last night I was dragging. Plus, I think I was allergic to something in the party house so it made me tired too. Can't believe I'm still up.

In any case, was watching Celebrity Apprentice where Stephen Baldwin was defending himself. Very funny to see how his Christianity kept getting thrown into the mix.

After hearing today's sermon by my Pastor, Jim Mackinga, and singing at both services, I've come to realize I need to show more of God's love, rather than judgment. You missed another great sermon by the way. Really spoke to my heart. All about contentment. Jim keeps it real. Visit Bay Cities Community Church and see for yourself sometime!

Oh, one last bit of exciting news to share. My friend, Maria Rangel, of NBC's Age of Love series will  make a special guest appearance at my Special Pre-Valentine's Day Party at Spa Riviera this Thursday, February 7 between 6pm - 9pm. She won't stay the whole time because she's doing this as a favor, but this will be your chance to get an autograph or take a picture with her if you're so inclined.

Just don't bum rush her ok? LOL Thank you. This has been a public service announcement on the treatment of reality stars...:)

Chocolate kisses and football dreams...

Oh, and Cougar chasers...

Britney Spears... So sad... and other musings

By Joy A. Kennelly

(WHOOPS! I forgot to take this out of draft format! Here's yesterday's blog for your reading pleasure.)

I know, I know. Enough of the Britney saga, but I just feel so sorry for her. I used to have a friend who was bipolar and there really is no reasoning with someone like that unless they go on meds. It's just a difficult disease that is out-of-control unless people want to get help.

I pray Britney realizes she can't continue like this and seeks help. My friend and I stopped being friends because of her erratic behavior and angry outbursts. I've seen her since the time of our final blow-up and apparently  she's on meds which have been helping. I'm happy for her because she was spinning with no direction just like Britney. It's just a sad, sad, sad disease. I wish both of them much love and support.

BTW, wasn't that a riot about Sean Young getting so drunk she interrupted the DGA Awards? Sad and rude for Julian, but funny nonetheless. I bet a lot of people would want to say that to certain people throughout awards show season, but it was rude. Bad Sean, Bad...

However, I think that's the first time the DGA Awards show has ever actually hit the entertainment news. Maybe they'll look back and think it was a good thing too. Their five minutes of fame.

Now that Sean is in rehab, maybe she'll think so too?!:) I wish her much success in getting her life under control.

So glad to hear the Writer's Guild strike might be coming to an end sooner than later. It's about time! I've been forced to explore other options on my cable and it's just not as fun. HBO is interesting, but sometimes you want mindless viewing, not thought provoking or provocative. Does that make sense? Plus, I like commercials. Weird, I know, but I always have and always will. I like the mental break.

Here's a fun site to explore if you're not sure who to vote for, or want to see if who you're supporting shares similar views to you in all areas: http://www.vajoe.com/candidate_calculator.html I was kind of surprised to see who I came up with.

I was pretty even Republican/Democrat candidates which was nice to see because I've always said I'm a moderate because I see the value in both parties. I always wish there was a third party that combined the best of both. Don't you?

Oh, and here's a fun Christian Super Bowl Party if you're looking to meet other singles who share similar beliefs:

It's time again to celebrate the Super Bowl!

Come join the masses as we eat, drink, socialize and perhaps even watch the game (upstairs with Bill Dunn). It has been rumored that Patrick Hare will be creating and serving his famous New England Clam Chowder--you'll want to attend for that reason only.

Here's the basics:

Where and When: 2:00-9:00pm

Walter Beach House

18 23rd Ave

Venice, CA 90291

Near the corner of Venice Bl and Pacific   Ave near the beach

Parking:

There is scattered free parking in the area along with public parking at the corner of Venice and Pacific.

What to Bring:

Last Name A-M Food (Main Dishes, hor'douerves, salads, chips and dips)

Last Name N-Z Drinks (wine, beer, soft drinks, waters) and Desserts

PLEASE RSVP IF POSSIBLE (need to know how massive the masses will be)

email: superdave (at) socal (dot) rr (dot) com

Speaking of parties, our Pre-Valentine's Day party at Spa Riviera on 2/7 is coming together quite nicely thank you very much for asking. I've just invited a slew of people,  and media and so has everyone else who's involved. We shall see...

Come on down!

Watching Allison Janney on the Ecozone Project show after pleasant Christmas day

By Joy A. Kennelly

It's kind of funny to realize that I grew up in a eco-friendly environment unknowingly. Just turned on Allison Janney's EcoZone show after a very pleasant day with friends on Christmas. We walked Naples and saw the cute decorated homes all along the canal. Very nice way to end the day.

Now seeing this show I realize that my Dad was way ahead of his time so long ago. He was doing composting back in the 70's. We always recycled paper (had to use the 2nd side to make sure we didn't waste anything.) I vaguely remember him re-using plastic ziplock bags and foil too which at the time I felt was extreme.

However, my favorite memory was us raising rabbits to eat! Looking back, it feels like that scene out of Michael Moore's first film where that woman was raising rabbits. I laughed out loud in recognition when I saw it because for awhile there we did that too! Too funny. Still can't really eat rabbit. Sorry bunnies.

Dad also used to have solar panels on the house. Very progressive guy! I remember just thinking he was cheap and now he's hip! Too funny. I guess if more people will do this now we'll save the earth.

So, hope you had an eco-friendly Christmas and enjoyed a relaxing day like I did.

Have a good week.

Check out my latest posts on my wordpress blog

By Joy A. Kennelly (new link here too - check it out!)

Hi Everyone, I've been busy promoting my client, Artist Gali Rotstein's Art Opening Reception January 12, 2008 at Lois Lambert Gallery in Bergamot Station and will have more time to blog about all the fun events I've been attending later today. Check out my wordpress blog (www.thejoywriterpr.wordpress.com) for recent highlights - very fun!

Hope to see you at the party!

American Gangster, Mafia Code of Ethics, Hermosa Beach

By Joy A. Kennelly

I've been wanting to write about this for quite some time. Did anyone else catch the Mob's Code of Ethics article mid-November? I found it extremely interesting, especially after seeing American Gangster last night.

Here's a link to the BBC's article on the mafia in case you missed the original. But back to the movie for now.One of my friends is a former rapper (I believe there's a lot of illegal activity going on in that genre too, but that's a discussion for another day.)

One year we decided to hit the Oscar Gifting Suites for fun and publicity since he's a celebrity. To make sure he received a lot of attention he wore his PINK fox fur mid-length jacket along with his customary pink and black spotted mink top hat.

Now if you can visualize a 6'2" solidly built, black rapper turned filmmaker wearing that coat in the Beverly Hilton hotel around Oscar time you can IMAGINE the attention he received. When I was watching Denzel Washington stride into the boxing arena area wearing such an ostentatious chinchilla coat, I had to text my friend to tell him DW was wearing his coat to tease him. My friend also has a floor length pink fur coat, but says it's not ever cold enough to wear it in CA. He totally cracks me up!

That movie was great. I was kind of bummed that I'd seen so many of the pivotal scenes in trailers and commercials, but it was still great. Almost every night of my classes, one of the guest speakers brings up that movie, or one of my classmates does. I think Russell Crowe and Denzel Washington did an amazing acting job in it. The actors and/or the movie have got to be nominated for something come Oscar season.

I also enjoyed seeing Cuba Gooding Jr. play someone other than Mr. Happy. He had range which was fun to watch. I couldn't place Josh Brolin until I saw his name in the credits. Excellent bad guy. Makes me wonder, based on that movie, how much more corruption is going on in the South Bay,CA that we don't even realize. Even my attorney agrees with me. I personally don't think I really want to know everything.

I will share selections from the Mob's Code of Ethics because I think it applies to Hermosa Beach and city council and others doing business here. I'm also revealing the end of the movie so if you haven't seen it yet, I'll tell you when to stop reading to avoid ruining the surprise.

According to yahoo, 

"The list bars mobsters from hanging out in bars, from befriending police and being late for appointments. It also bars them from 'taking possession of money that belong to others or other families.'"

No bars, eh? I wonder if city officials would do a better job of running the city if they stayed out of the bars they're meant to govern. Just a thought. Ha! Not to say that all or any of them do, but we know one recently elected candidate who's been and is very cozy... P.T. anyone?

You know what else totally cracks me up about living in Hermosa? The amount of former councilmen and mayors I keep bumping into. I guess in a city that's only a mile or so with a population of 18,000 it's inevitable right? However, I've never, ever met that many in casual settings anywhere else I've lived. I guess it's a rite of passage or something for the men down here or there's nothing else to do. LOL!

Now from the Herald Sun on the same mafia topic:

"The list, found typed on a single sheet kept in Lo Piccolo's leather case, also dictates a Mafia member can never approach a rival without a third person present."

Maybe it's a good thing that former Mayor/bar owner, JL Bowler is escorting us on our little bar hop excursion after all. Although our planned visit is a friendly one. Just fact finding and fun with former Fat Face Fenner Faloon restaurant owner turned PR guy for all the bars in Hermosa Beach. Very interesting.

I liked the fact that the mob isn't supposed to "befriend" the police too.

Here's a quick blurb explaining why this code of ethics is a good idea from a cool blog called The Business Ethics blog. For the whole article click through. And I quote:

"It's worth pointing out the parallels between the Mafia code and the ethical strictures placed on members of legitimate business enterprises, including:

""#3.  Never be seen with cops." (i.e., avoid even the appearance of conflict of interest)
"#4. Don't go to pubs and clubs." (presumably this is to make disclosure of 'company secrets' less likely)"

Very interesting, right? Just keeping it real.

Back to American Gangster (click for the Hollywood Reporter's review.) Now here's the paragraph to avoid reading for the ending ok?

I loved that Richie, the good cop played by Russell, when offered a bribe by Frank, the drug lord played by Denzel, totally turned it down and also turned in a million dollars when there were so many other dirty cops.

I also loved that as a result of Richie's integrity, so many of those crooked cops and others were caught. I don't know what it would take to clean up the corruption here, but one can only hope that eventually the truth will be revealed. Dateline?  20/20? LA Times? KNBC?
 

That's all. I'm sure everyone wants to believe that there isn't corruption in our city, but I think it's rampant everywhere in the country. It's just a little closer to the surface in certain parts.

More to be revealed. That's all. Gotta run.

Have a great Saturday and don't forget to visit the Los Feliz Village Holiday Festival tonight taking place from 6pm - 10pm on Hillhurst between Franklin and Hollywood. It's freeee... Great for the whole family.

See you there...

Britney Spears, Art party

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just caught Britney's new video and highlights. So glad to hear she's reconnecting with her mom and sister. She needs family right now more than ever. I think the radio station that was having people bid on when she was going to commit suicide was terrible and deserves to have a heavy fine from the FCC (if that's possible.)

Why do people think it's funny to laugh at another's troubles? Yes they're famous, but does that make them any less human? I've never understood that attitude. Here's an interesting LA Times article with their take on what's happening. And this one's my favorite - Jimmy Kimmel's take on Chris Crocker, Britney's Super Fan, and his video. Too funny.

I do think Jimmy's girlfriend Sarah was a little snide in her riff, but that's old news so who cares right?

Otherwise, life is good. The art party last night was very eclectic and electric - lots of interesting types of people I don't normally see out and about. Got some good advice and a great Kerastase hair product too. Can't wait to get my hair done! You should have been there.

I'm bummed because my friend Vince has canceled his party due to too many Halloween and Octoberfest parties. Oh well. Maybe I can finally catch a movie! Been dying to see the new Jodi Foster film, The Brave One, and a bunch of others like Into the Wild.

My friend Shana saw Into the Wild and says it's amazing. The music by Eddie Vedder really sets the tone and the cinematography is stunning. I think Sean Penn is going to be the next Robert Redford type director if I go by what she described. Or the next greatest Sean Penn director!:)

So, that's all. I wish I could tell you more, but there's a lot of stuff going on behind the scenes, but until  confirmed in writing...mum's the word.

Hope you're having a good one!

Watching the Emmy's made me think of Owen Wilson

By Joy A. Kennelly

I'm a huge fan of Owen Wilson's films and who he is as I know him via those films. I don't know him personally although I did make eyes at him at a Marc Jacobs party years back and he came to sit near me with a friend of his. I was too shy to strike up a conversation and regret it to this day!:) Hi Owen - love ya! So glad you're alive.

I'm watching the Emmy's and it hit me that if Owen's suicide attempt had gone through his name and face would be scrolling when they announced all the actors who had died; although most likely his death would have been acknowledged during the Oscars since he's a film guy.

That made me so sad. Okay, I did have a crush on him, but the sadness is that he's such a great comedic talent and the idea that he's in such despair that he would attempt to take his own life is extremely sad to me.

Hollywood just chews people up and spits them out. It's a really tough hard business to be part of and I can only imagine the pressures of his level of success. It doesn't surprise me IF he has done the drugs all the trash mags are claiming, but I can only pray that his family and friends help him get real help to conquer his demons.

You never know what's going on in people's lives really I'm learning. Not just Hollywood, but everywhere. One of the guys who's at my church used to be one of the South Bay cities biggest drug dealers years back until he was caught and went to jail. Now he is a born-again Christian, happily married and involved in the church.

That was such a cool testimony to hear - not that he had that life before, but that he found a way out of it and my little church and God was the reason. He's a real cool guy and married to a good friend of mine there. There's so many cool people who attend my church I'm just loving getting to know them better. Who knew church people could be so interesting?:)

We're growing so much as a church the leadership has decided to create a second service at the Lomita Campus located at 2043 Lomita Blvd, Lomita CA 90274 at 9:30am Sunday mornings with Pastor Ben Meyers, the man who started Bay Cities with Jim. That service will begin September 23, 2007. Check it out!

If you visit the Redondo Beach campus - try parking on Torrance Blvd or at the Wells Fargo Bank parking lot and walking over. If you arrive earlier than later you're bound to find both a seat and a parking spot. Just an insider tip because we'd hate for you to turn away simply because you can't find a spot.

We just had the nicest birthday party for the pastor's wife Sandy tonight that over 75 women in the church attended to share our love and good wishes. What was really fun and special is that Peter Rivera, former drummer and lead singer with Rare Earth (remember them? 70's rock music - a little before I was old enough to listen to rock music, but recognizable nonetheless - remember "Get Ready?") came with some of the other worship singers from church and sang a special Happy Birthday to Sandy.

He has an amazing voice! Like buttah. He's started a new band - you can check out a cool promo piece here on You Tube. That was a really nice party and I wouldn't have missed it for the world.
 

Dabar, his wife, is one of my friends at church. Just love her. She's a little fireball! Very beautiful too. Just read their web site and learned two of their sons are professional baseball players. How cool! Their daughter is special college player too. Sorry, just had to share because I'm so proud of them all.

Back to the Emmy's. Listening to it more than watching. Was shocked to see good 'ole publicity hound Mayor Villaraigosa having the balls to be there (with what looked like his mistress, but I haven't been following his gossip so not sure.) Just sick of seeing his face EVERYWHERE!

Just had a thought. If he's divorcing the woman who gave him the last part of his name is he now going to be only known as Villa? Just kidding. Although I hope it happens. He needs to have something cut off - right ladies? Just kidding. LOL!!!!

He's becoming a little like Ryan Seacrest. OVER EXPOSED! Need I repeat it again? OVER EXPOSED! :) Ryan, you really need to take a chill pill and give someone else a chance of hosting on TV. I guess you're trying to take over Dick Clark's role, eh? I think the reason I can't watch tonight is because of Ryan. Too smug, too full of himself, just thinks he's God's gift to the world! OY VEY!

And just learned more news on O.J. Simpson's debacle after the show. Maybe this time he'll see some jail time. What an idiot!

Anyway, hope you're having fun whatever you're doing. I'm enjoying being home and playing around with my new Facebook profile. For my TripAdvisor map, my Dad just told me all the cities we've traveled  in South America as a family when we were very young. (Check it out Grace - pretty fun memories!)

Tomorrow Dad & I will figure out our travels in Africa. See ya.

AICP Awards Show, X Bar, The Liquid Muse and the Independent Television Festival,

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just returned from attending the Association of Independent Commercial Producers Awards Show tonight over at the LACMA with an actress friend. I like working the door of the show because then the rest of the night we can mix and mingle and enjoy.

Here's a link to the show in case you're curious to see which commercials won. I love this this stuff because I love cutting edge creativity which I believe the advertising industry creates over and over again. What was interesting was to discuss the state of this business since it's turned upside down right now. I never realized how many advertising events I go to till tonight.

Even though I'm in public relations, I appreciate good advertising. The ability to tell a story in 60 seconds is brilliant. That's why I think there's many talented commercial directors who move into creating amazing features as a result. I don't think it ever works the other way around though.:)

Here's a few of my favorites from tonight - watch them and you'll see why (They're all good, but these stood out the most to me.)

1. Vaseline "Sea of Skin" by Smuggler's Director Ivan Zacharis - brilliant talent - check out his reel on their site. This commercial is so artistic and all nude so it was only shown in Europe. It may offend some of you, but I love it. I think it's actually orchestrated by a famous artist, but I'm not sure. This company picked up 7 awards I believe.

2. JC Penny Crazy Beautiful - fun to watch, but you've probably seen it already. It was cute to see again.

3. Nike Zoom LeBron IV "Pool" by Epoch Films Inc's Director Stacy Wall. This one is so funny if you watch nothing else you must see this one.

There's others, but I'm tired and have a meeting with the Hermosa Beach City Manager in the morning and other meetings the rest of the day. Yes, I'm doing it. Going to see what we can do to help stop the public drunken madness one city official at a time. I'll keep you posted.

Oh yeah, the other day was interesting - here's one anecdote which should make you LOL as it did me. Met up with my new English actor friend and a group of his model, musician, director, actor friends at the Belmont again. He shared that he'd bumped into the Hotel Rwanda director at Les Deux the other night and he was wearing a t-shirt that said, "If you see the police - (then the logo) Warner bros (get it? Warn-a-brother?)

I have had such a kick sharing that with all my friends. I think it's especially ironic since it was that particular director wearing it! Too funny. Spent some time catching up with my good friend/mentor Marcia immediately after since she lives right around the corner and we rarely see each other any more, but talk on the phone all the time. Ended up borrowing a skirt from her since mine was linen and horribly wrinkled. Thanks Marcia!

The rest of the day was filled with a lunch meeting with Robin from LA Inc to discuss future media opportunities with them. While eating bumped into my technology friend Natalie Farsi who I only see when I'm dining out every few months or so - it's just uncanny how that happens.

Then dashed up to Shana's to see her since we rarely see each other any more since I'm living in the South Bay and she's still in Hollywood. Drove back down to the South Bay for a doctor's appointment which I missed so took a quick swim to cool down and mellow out before running back to Century City to the new X Bar in the Hyatt Regency in Century City to hear my other friend Natalie aka The Liquid Muse teach  a class on how to make 4 different cocktails which was very entertaining and yummy.

Ironic, eh? However, I like to support my friend's endeavors and she personally invited me to attend so... I was just careful to soak up all the alcohol with lots of delicious appetizers.:)

Met the Hyatt hotel's amazing publicist, Jennifer Barry of The Barry Group, who I'd worked with on the hotel press release for the Los Angeles Convention & Visitors Bureau aka LA Inc. We happened to sit at the same little table and enjoyed noshing all class long. A little too spicy for me at times, but yummy nonetheless.

I really must have a mixer there soon because the outdoor patio is really, really lovely - outdoor firepit, huge comfy chairs, cool, summer breezes, and nice music playing. There was a girl laughing rather obnoxiously, but otherwise, it was very quiet overall. Extremely enjoyable. This hotel is where a lot of high-end Hollywood events are held so if you're looking for a convention location - check it out.

Then, once that was over dashed cross town to Hollywood again to Raleigh Studios (where I held one of my last festivals) for the Opening Night Gala of The Independent Television Festival and the LA TV Fest with a live performance by Biz Markie who was awesome! I had no idea what to expect and the friend I had invited bailed at the last minute leaving me to attend alone.

To be honest it was really nice to be free to do what I wanted and I actually had a great time - better than I expected! The backlot was absolutely packed with young, aspiring filmmakers. There was an energy in the air I've not experienced that often at most Hollywood events - it was like they were all expecting great things to happen and the world was their oyster. That was a great vibe to be part of.

Bumped into my Actress friend Esther and her girlfriend who I learned had been finalists that night which was great for them. Gave them a little boost and got them on the red carpet which was thrilling for them. Made me happy to help. We had fun creating fun pictures in their picture booth area.

Also bumped into a friend I haven't seen in maybe 7 years and had fun catching up with her until this weirdo guy who'd been bothering me all night came up and interrupted. For some reason my friend thought I'd want to talk to him and bowed out. I quickly gave him the cold shoulder and he finally got the hint. ICKY! Not my type AT ALL.

Now Shemar Moore, the actor, he is totally more my type and he was there. Yes girls, I gave him the flirty eye, but he had a beautiful blonde bombshell with him so I left them alone. However, later on I could swear I saw him looking at me. Isn't that so silly? Give a girl a break ok? It's been too long since a handsome black man has paid me some attention and I'm taking that to the bank.

I had to wonder if he'd read my blog from awhile back when I was cooing about how adorable he was and maybe he was wondering if it was me or not. No, Mr. Moore, I am not a stalker. Just an admirer of all that's hot and sexy and that night it was you babe. Bring it on!

Whoa, be still my beating heart. Okay, enough of the silly. What I really appreciated about that night was how multi-cultural it was. Years back when I was producing my film festival I always made sure to have representation of minorities. A filmmaker friend of mine didn't think it was that big a deal until I warned him he'd see it when he went to accept an award at the Kodak building.

When he walked in, he was the only black filmmaker there. His first name is Marshall and we both thought maybe since his film wasn't like a John Singleton ghetto film, maybe the judges thought he was white and he was there by mistake. I wonder what ever happened to him? He was extremely talented and I used to have the biggest crush on him. It was just nice to see that now at least at this festival we've come a long way baby.

Oh, I just remembered that tonight I not only enjoyed a great meal prepared by Patina, but I also bumped into my Redondo Beach editor friend, Nelson Brann, who edited the PSA I did a few years back for the Tsunami Relief Benefit I helped promote.

I didn't recognize him, but he recognized me and gave me a big hug hello. I said I know your voice and I know your face, but I can't remember your name. Then it all came rushing back. He's grown his hair out and looks completely different now! It was fun to catch up with him and his wife.

I also met the Publisher of the Creative Handbook, David Shapiro - great guy. We were having a nice chat, but I was distracted because I saw another friend, Sylvia Kahn, who I hadn't seen in more than 8 years walking towards me. She was part of my film festival days before I had my son.

She remembered me too! We met when I interviewed with the production company she had been working at at the time and we stayed friends for quite awhile afterwards. Sometimes I think I go out on interviews just to make new friends! LOL!

She's now working at Technicolor and we're going to "do lunch" soon. She's got this amazing new position and maybe there's some fun stuff for us to do together again. We'll see. You just never know who you'll bump into going out which is why I love Hollywood.

Now that my back is officially well as determined by my chiro I'm back to my usual hobnobbing in a big way which I just love. Met an Executive Producer tonight who wants to talk biz. Who knows - could start repping a post house which would be very cool. I love good creative work which is why I ran my film festival for so long despite the low pay. Not no mores though - you pay, or you don't play.

Okay, this is really all. I think the coffee I drank is finally wearing off and I'm tired enough to sleep. All in all, these past two days were a lot of fun and very good for meeting new people and catching up with old friends. Lovin' the variety!

Now to see what tomorrow (or should I say today since it is almost 2am) brings... Sleep well!

Simpson's Movie, Fritelli's Donuts, Gali Rotstein, The Counter restaurant, Paige Premium Denim

By Joy A. Kennelly

The Simpson's Movie cel art party was so cute. Here's a pic of me with the characters. I wanted to take
them home with me they were so cute. I love animation. I used to market the World Animation Celebration that 50,000 people would attend. As a result, I knew all the coolest animation and animators. Amazing talent in that field.

This party was in celebration of the upcoming Simpson's Movie and the walls were filled with cel art from the TV show, Family Guy, and other famous animation from all eras. They served Fritelli's Gourmet Donuts which were quite yummy. I didn't try a Flamin' Moe martini, but those looked good too. There was a lady giving make-up tattoos that the kids just loved. Joe Montagna, Fred Willard and Tom Arnold were some of the celebrities in attendance.

My client, Artist Gali Rotstein, came, as well as, Interior Designer, Leslie Sachs and Graphic Designer, Cynthia Combs. Gali showed me the completed press kits and they're just stunning. It's really amazing what a difference good design makes. I LOVE IT! Now to get the approval or whatever I need to start pitching her.

I was rather bummed that I was too late to benefit from my EPPS mixer so to comfort myself went to The Counter restaurant by myself. A friend had taken me there before, but we had arrived when they were closing so I wasn't able to experience it then. Just reading the review on the place - no wonder it's so crowded! Oprah AND GQ Magazine say they're the best burgers! GQ even went so far as to call it one of "The 20 Hamburgers You Must Eat Before You Die."

I wasn't terribly hungry having tried a donut earlier and skipped ordering the "Build Your Own Burger" which they're known for. I sat at the counter and was joined by a very interesting South African Graphic Designer who works for Paige Premium Denim. We had a great chat and when his burger came it was definitely a concoction all his own! No wonder the place was packed with men. What a great burger joint!

My veggie burger paled in comparison, but it was delicious nonetheless. It was fun to go out for dinner alone and have a nice conversation with someone unexpected. Just what I needed to get me out of my funk for missing my mixer.

Oh well, I've decided to start a professional networking mixer for PR/marketing/design/event people since we all collaborate anyway. Should be interesting to see who attends. Looking forward to it. Last night's MB Chamber Mixer was interesting. Bumped into my sister's childhood friend there and promptly re-connected them via the phone which was fun.

Schmoozed around with my new designer friend, Gary Evans of Tiburon Design, who is extremely talented. We met at the Torrance Chamber lunch. He's one of the people I'm considering starting this mixer with. Also some of my Beach Writer friends too. It's time all of different disciplines had a mixer to support each other as a whole!

So, that's all for now. We'll see what tomorrow brings! Have a good one!

Crown Jewel Club, Shade Hotel, The Party Goddess, Gali Rotstein and Age of Love

By Joy A. Kennelly

Where to begin? Spent lunch with the Crown Jewel Club Girls over at Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach as a fund-raiser for this delightful organization. Here's the mission statement from their Web site:

"Crown Jewel Club is dedicated to giving at-risk, inner-city girls the opportunity to learn basic disciplines in the areas of basic manners, grooming, table etiquette, and how to conduct themselves in social settings.

The goal is to provide a positive environment that fosters improved self-esteem, self-confidence, respect for themselves and others, self-awareness, self-nurturing, the value of giving, perseverance, and the importance of education, family and friendships."

Just a wonderful organization with wonderful success stories, it brought tears to my eyes to hear the children tell NBC weatherman, Fritz Coleman, and NBC Co-Anchor, Colleen Williams, (who both co-hosted the luncheon) how "Mrs. Phillips" has changed their lives.

Mrs. Phillips is the founder of this two-year old organization which has radically changed the lives of the girls who have gone through the training. I spoke to the school counselor afterwards and she said that she's been at that school for 10 years and there were always fights and disagreements among the girls in the Spring. Now, since the program has been in place, that behavior has stopped. Also, this group helped one little girl choose not to join a gang when asked to. Man...

My two little favorite girls when asked about themselves responded - "I love sushi and Mrs. Phillips." The 2nd little girl said, "I love Mrs. Phillips. She's taught me how not to be so ghetto." How cute is that? Each little girl was wearing the cutest bonnet too. Check out the Web site for pictures and more details.

There were also some real amazing little girls who wanted to be doctors, fashion designers, investigators, and one little girl who seemed destined for politics telling us how she wanted to uncover domestic violence or something like that. This from girls ages 9-11 years old living in South Central!

Shade Hotel was a really beautiful venue for this event too. They closed down the bar area and the outdoor patio for the luncheon. Free organic manicures were offered by Green Bliss Eco Spa, a traveling spa, at one end. Delicious tea sandwiches, Caesar salad, fresh fruit and petit fours were elegantly displayed and prepared by Marley Majcher of The Party Goddess.

Five years ago when I was in the catering business (has anyone ever avoided it completely?) I worked for her company and actually ended up serving at her wedding. She is such a fun party girl. Half the room was formal china, silver, chandeliers to represent her husband, and the other half of the room was this wild animal print chairs, brightly colored plates, cups, etc (at least that's what I remember. I also remember serving jello shots a lot too - that was one fun party for those wedding guests!)

She's extremely creative, very smart business woman. I highly recommend her company to you. You can tell her I referred you as we re-acquainted ourselves at the event. She remembered me too which was fun. She produced this event and it was top notch all the way. The goody bags are wonderful with so many sponsored gifts I can't go into them all here. Just know they are spectacular and most enjoyable.

The one funny moment of the day was seeing the former Mayor of Manhattan Beach, Steve A. Napolitano, there and mistaking him for someone who worked for the hotel because of his 60's style brown shirt and matching brown pants that looked like it could be a uniform if you glanced at him quickly. I couldn't figure out why he was walking out to join all the ladies until he was acknowledged from the stage as who he was! My bad.

I had seen him at the other women's conference event I went to and couldn't figure out why a young, handsome guy like himself would attend an obviously all-female event (Okay, not really, but why did he keep showing up though?), but when it was mentioned that he was part of some other governmental office it became clear he was schmoozing his constituency (although he's very low-key - I think he likes to be supportive too. How do I know though? I don't even know the guy - only spoke a few words to him today! I'm sure everyone else in town knows him though. He seems a little shy.)

He was very gracious to the charity and offered his office to match anyone's $5,000 grant they made that day. I don't think it was that type money crowd, but this was my first Manhattan Beach event. I'm just getting the lay of the land down here.

Who knows what goes on in the Soroptomist International of Manhattan Beach? Seems like a great organization to be part of though since they do so much charitable work. I like that. I might have to see what all is entailed to be part of it because I'm impressed with the women I have met to date.

Then drove like a mad woman to Gali's (trying to burn out the additives in my engine like the mechanic suggested this morning when I took my car in for review again.) It was rather fun speeding full bore around the curves of the Sepulveda pass in my red sports car. Fortunately, no police were around because I was booking! Just doing what my mechanic suggested. A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do!

Met with Gali to discuss strategy and next steps. Together with her designer friend, Cynthia Combs, they have created the most classy press kit from the raw press materials I gave them. I was so happy! It was beyond what I imagined it could be. Those two are EXTREMELY talented. Too bad Cynthia's moving to South Carolina to start her eco events business, but I'm sure anything she does will be first class all the way. I'm also sure you'll be hearing about her sooner than later. Mark my words.

I feel good about what Gali and I have planned now and just need to implement everything. This week is going to be extremely busy!  I'm networking like a crazy woman - chamber lunch tomorrow afternoon, Third Tuesday in the evening (don't really network there, but catch up with friends.) Wednesday night - another chamber mixer. I'm intent on checking out the local scene since I normally never hang out down here in the South Bay and am curious who participates.

Thursday morning - another networking breakfast (I overslept last week and hope to make this one - my nights can get late though!) and then that evening two events- the Simpson's movie animation art gallery opening with a cool crowd in attendance (I'm tired and not explaining it properly, but trust me it's going to be great!!!! Fred Willard anyone? How about a Flamin' Moe? I CANNOT WAIT!!!) followed by the EPPS summer mixer which is always a good time.

I pitched myself to a lot of the publicists in that organization to help with their overflow PR work. It will be nice to put the name to the faces. Also, to see old friends I don't see except for these events. Very good group of people. Highly recommend joining if you're an independent publicist, or any type actually.

Okay, I'm getting tired. I do need to say something though about the show, Age of Love. Although at one point I was hoping to like Jen, the oldest one of the bunch, as she is the spokesmodel for the clothing site I was approached to represent, can't say that I do. I think that woman is a Cougar with a capital "C." She even said it herself in tonight's episode, she only wants what she wants.

I WOULD NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, EVER date someone 18 years younger, especially if my son was that age - that's just sick and wrong. I have gone out socially with much, much younger men, but I would NEVER, ever seriously consider dating any of them! I think the youngest I ever hung out with was 18 years and even that was a huge age difference at the time. He was a model - what can I say? First red head I ever hung out socially with too. Too much a Daddy thing since my Dad's a red head - just not my thing. I like my men dark and handsome. Know anyone? :)

BTW, took my profile off yahoo because the person's profile I hid popped up in my box as reviewing my profile and I couldn't figure out how to remove him. If he's not interested enough to contact me, then why stare at his face right? However, it would have been nice, but would have been's do not a relationship make. I think I'm taking a break from online stuff for a bit except maybe EHarmony still. Too much going on this week.

Back to age vs. beauty, whoops, 20's vs. 40's. I don't think it's a fair playing field for someone that much older to pursue someone younger like that - I think what next week's episode will reveal is that Mark (isn't that his name? I'm sorry, he's not that exciting to me - handsome, but a little too naive) is more interested in just having sex with her than having a real relationship.

Also, that woman seems more interested in adding him to her (sex) belt than having a real relationship too I think. She seems too hard and calculating to be anything other than a (fill in the blank.) Can you tell I'm over wanting to work with that company?

However, maybe I should watch what I say seeing as she's the assistant to the head coach of the Lakers and if I ever need a favor, she'd probably be the one I need to deal with!:) Jen, you're a very nice woman and I'm sure you had only the best motives on the show. Really, I do. Truce?

I have to admit though, that show cracks me up when some of the earlier 40 year old women got kicked off because they were bemoaning the fact that time was slipping away (or words to that effect.) I've been there, but not on national TV!!! No reality TV for me - thank you very much. I especially would never go on national TV and announce my age to the world. A lady never reveals her age and a gentleman never asks.

I had to teach that to the little cutie patootie four year old boy who was watching softball with me the other week. I can be real kid-like around kids because I just love playing around and being silly with them which they love too. I guess I was a little too much for his serious little mind and he asked me with great concern, "How old ARE you?" I just love how honest little kids can be.

I kept teasing him and telling him I wanted to pick him up and give him a big hug he was so cute. I told him too, not only is he handsome, but I bet he's smart too, to which he replied, "Yes I am" with all the bravado his tiny little body could muster. HOW CUTE IS THAT!!! They're all coming to my BBQ so I can't wait to see him again. Very fun little boy.

Speaking of which, my little boy (9 years old now!) just sent me the sweetest thank you card for the Star Wars stamps and funny reggae head pencil I sent him for fun. He lives with his adoptive parents outside DC and he's the best little guy. I just love him. I'm going to buy some fun stationary to correspond back to him. Little boys are fun!

It's the big boys you have to watch out for. Just teasing. I wish I had a big boy in my life about now. Are you feeling me single girls? Jen? HA! LOL. In any case, today was fun. Tomorrow is going to be busy so I best be getting to bed.

Have a great night (what's left of it.)

Entourage, The Blog/Zine Network, Frontline Writing, Bay Cities Church, Trilogy Spa

By Joy A. Kennelly

Entourage was great tonight! Totally cracks me up. Can you imagine hating someone so much and then being stuck working with them over and over again? I can't! This plot line is great - can't wait for next week.The drug scene was a little excessive though. I wouldn't doubt this type BS goes on in Hollywood, but I've been very fortunate never to be a part of it. Not my scene. At all.

Moving right along.

Met with my Blog/Zine Network group today which was interesting as usual. We had more new people join us (for some reason I'm having deja vu. Did I write this last month? Oy vey!) Learned some new blogging tips which is always helpful. That's why I started this particular blog with my "byline." We'll see what happens doing that. Just curious.

David Tandet of Frontline Writing had some interesting Web sites for us to review and utilize in the future. I would tell you, but then I'd have to shoot you since you haven't joined the group yet! Just kidding. But seriously, if you want to learn about blogging, join us. I'm going to start inviting more guest speakers to come and we'll all learn how to grow this type "business" together!

Bay Cities Community Church was good as always. Sometimes music just hits my spirit and today I was tearing up again. I can just see myself on stage crying occasionally if I do sing with the worship team, but hey, I'm an emotional person and music can hit your emotions. So! We shall see!

Enjoyed hitting Trilogy Spa Hermosa Beach today after church for a bit. Was supposed to have a friend join me, but she was upset I switched day spas on her last minute so she bailed. I felt really, really bad at first, but after enjoying the rain shower and the floating water bed experience, I was feeling no pain. I really like their mango coconut sugar scrub - I smell so yummy! Don'tcha wish you were here with me right now? I smell good enough to eat! LOL

I was feeling pretty good about myself after that treat. I guess it showed because men were real attentive to me at the smog place. I must buy more dresses! It's nice to be feminine, especially since it's been so hot.

Now to get up early and take care of business. Last night some of the drunk idiots either visiting people here, or who live here were talking loudly and trying to climb our back wall at 3am. The bastards. I almost yelled, but when I opened the window wider I think they got the hint and shut up. OY VEY! More drunken idiots in the South Bay. Oh well.

I know I'd hear drunks a lot in certain parts of Hollywood too, but I've just never lived near this type behavior before - lucky I guess. At least people haven't been doing their stupid "Woo Hoo" calls since I told one of my neighbors that whoever did that at 2 and 3am were asses. Word travels fast I guess. It's not Georgia's Rules - it's Joy's Rules. JUST KIDDING!

I just find it highly disrespectful to be loud and obnoxious when people living here have small children. Maybe those "Woo Hoo" people have moved out or something. Good.

I'll get off my soapbox now.

Life is good.

I love my place, love my pool, love my friends down here, and love the beauty of the South Bay.

I just love being able to drive down PCH and look over to see the ocean whenever I'm at a crossroads of streets. There's just something majestic about an endless ocean that goes off into the horizon.

And with that, I'll bid you good night.

Sleep tight. God bless.

Artist Gali Rotstein's work on EXTRA all week!

  Catch Artist Gali Rotstein's latest collection, Requiem for a Housewife, on EXTRA this week at 7pm on NBC!!!

Gali’s REQUIEM FOR A HOUSEWIFE series was selected by Interior Designer Leslie Sachs, of Breathing Room Design, to hang in the 55 ft entry hallway of Actress Teri Hatcher’s new production offices.

Tune in as EXTRA covers the design makeover of Teri’s new offices, featuring Gali’s artwork -- also available on www.galirotstein.com and on EXTRA!

 For all art consulting & design inquiries please contact:

Leslie Sachs

Breathing Room Design

Artist inquiries or more artwork:

      Artist Gali Rotstein

 

Artist Gali Rotstein in Teri Hatcher's piece on EXTRA!

Artist Gali Rotstein’s latest art collection, REQUIEM FOR A HOUSEWIFE, is showcased in Teri Hatcher's "Extreme Makeover" this week on EXTRA @7PM on NBC!

Teri Hatcher had her brand new ISBE production offices redone by Interior Designer Leslie Sachs of Breathing Room Design and EXTRA's design dynamic duo Gary Andrews and Mike Mohen, with Pottery Barn providing the decor.

You can see my favorite piece of Gali's in Teri's revamped waiting area and more sneak peeks of Gali's work in the "art gallery inspired hallway" as EXTRA co-host, Dayna, so aptly put it. Also, very quickly in Teri's assistant's area on the shelves!

Check it all out on EXTRA!

Pam on the red carpet! More on Moore - are you sick of him yet? HA!

For those of you who are curious who was at the Reggie Bush party this Friday night, check out this link to Wireimage. I walked my actress friend, Pamela Adamic, down the carpet and she made the list! I find that photographers are more generous with my new female clients than my new male clients and this proved true here! Go Pamela, Go Pamela!

Now in case you haven't heard enough on Michael Moore - here's an article I'm quoting in its entirety from Kyle Smith, a New York Post reviewer, since he's actually seen the film, Sicko, and can give a balanced viewpoint. Hopefully, unlike the last guy who created an anti-Michael Moore site, I won't hear from the big guy himself because who knows what I'd say!:) Can't stand him and how he's desecrated the documentary format. Anyway, enjoy the read.

Kyle Smith on Michael Moore's 'Sicko'

Tuesday's New York Post features my review of Michael Moore's "Sicko," a film that will be released in theaters on June 29 but has already been released nationwide, on many Web sites, free, with Moore's blessing. What follows is a greatly expanded, much more detailed version of the one-star review I wrote for the print edition of The Post.

Michael Moore’s latest documentary “Sicko” is an urgent bipartisan plea. Democrats and Republicans, liberals and conservatives, Yankees and Red Sox can surely all agree, says Moore, that our health care system ought to be run by Fidel Castro.

The silliness of Moore’s oeuvre is so self-evident that being able to spot it is not liberal or conservative either; it’s a basic intelligence test, like the ability to match square peg with square hole. (I'll be writing more on Moore on my blog, kylesmithonline.com).

Even Moore does not believe what he says, and his films don’t bring about change-—union membership did not skyrocket nor corporate downsizing trickle off after "Roger and Me," there was no movement towards banning guns after "Bowling for Columbine," and John Kerry did not have to fill out any change of address forms in 2004. Moore's documentaries are mere political slapstick that could have been made by a third Farrelly brother or an eighth Stooge. I will pay him the honor of treating him with his own meds. How else can I deal with a film that calls Hillary Clinton "sexy"?

The bulk of "Sicko" is given over to the stories of Americans who got the run-around from health insurers. These people were told they didn’t qualify for benefits because the requested procedures were too experimental or because of pre-existing conditions. The most absurd example of several is, perhaps, that of the woman who says that after she received benefits, the check was stopped because she had previously suffered an undisclosed yeast infection.

There is no way to know whether this claim is true because Moore’s style is to present whatever information he likes without checking it. He told "Entertainment Weekly" "absolutely not," when asked whether he felt any need to get the other side of the story. So, over time, his work rusts out from within as the facts eat away at it. The central idea of "Bowling for Columbine," for instance—that the killers were subconsciously driven to their actions by the presence of a weapons manufacturing plant in Littleton---turned out to be not only conceptually insane but literally untrue. The plant did not make what Moore called "weapons of mass destruction" but rather space launch vehicles for TV satellites. “Roger & Me,” which presented Moore as unable to secure an interview with the GM chief Roger Smith, was also a 90-minute lie: Moore did talk to Smith, a fact revealed by Ralph Nader.

One Los Angeles woman in “Sicko” says her daughter died because her insurance company told her to take her daughter to a different hospital than the first one she went to, and there are several other similarly grim tales. Moore is smart enough to know that a depressed audience is an absent audience, so he mixes the genuinely sad cases with ones that are just dopey, such as the one about the young six-foot beansprout rejected for coverage because he was underweight.

Regardless of whether any particular claim in "Sicko" is true, no one doubts that lots of insured and uninsured Americans face health-care crises. So far, Moore is master of the obvious. We all hate insurance companies and red tape, and we all want to improve the system. Where do we go from here?

To France, Britain and Canada, says Moore, who presents each of them as a health-care paradise. But lots of people in those countries have health-care nightmares of their own. Here’s how easy it is to lie by anecdote: Say I wanted to make a film about gay black Republicans who live in Chelsea. I find ten of them, make a film about them, and you walk out of the theater thinking: Wow, so many gay black Republicans in Chelsea! The six years it took me to find these ten guys will go unnoted.

All three countries are edging away from how Moore portrays them. Moore knows that in France, where he praises not only the health service but limits on working hours, expansive unemployment benefits and the country’s three preferred forms of exercise—street-marching, banner-hoisting and strikes—a new conservative president was just elected by promising to cut back on such nonsense. (According to Moore, if you need a babysitter or help with the laundry, the French government will send a trained professional right over.)

Everywhere he looks, Moore finds French happiness. But this phrase is as close to an oxymoron as French rock. In a poll, 85 percent of the French recently said their country is heading in the wrong direction. Right direction? Nine percent. In France in 2003, 15,000 mostly elderly hospital patients died in an August heat wave--because hospitals lack air conditioning and doctors were on vacation. The French parliament blamed the health care system.  That’s five times 9/11’s toll, all of it preventable, all of it unlamented by Moore.

Moore knows that in Britain, where National Health Service spending has more than doubled since Tony Blair was elected, with little to show for it, there is a two-tier health system: the smart set carry private insurance, which Moore wants to outlaw in the U.S. The cliché in London (check out this story and this one) is that the well-shod go to the same doctor as the suckers on the National Health Service. The difference is that private clients get treated right away while the NHS losers wait two years to get their strep throat looked at.

Moore glosses over wait times, hoping his audience is too stupid to notice. He asks a handful of Canadian patients how long they had to wait to see the doctor. Oh, 20 minutes, 45 minutes, everyone says. So if Moore finds five people who didn’t have to wait, there’s no waiting for anybody! “To any Canadian who has ever been forced to go to emergency, this would seem unbelievable,” writes Thomas Malkom, a vehemently pro-Moore columnist for Canada’s paper The Star. The Canadian Supreme Court struck down a law forbidding private insurance in a 2005 decision, ruling that "Access to a waiting list is not access to health care" The decision resulted from a Canadian case in which a man waited a year for hip-replacement surgery, and Canada has started down the road of privatization. Check out the Canadian movie "The Barbarian Invasions" (which is, like "Sicko," a fiction film) for a view of how Canadians view their system: agonizing waits; trips across the border to Vermont to get access to modern technology; fetid facilities modeled, seemingly, on an American one—the Confederate field hospital in "Gone with the Wind."

Here is Dr. David Gratzer, the Canadian author of "The Cure: How Capitalism Can Save Health Care," who believes both the US and Canadian systems are deeply flawed:

"Like most Canadians, I believed that we had the best-run health-care system in the world. Because the system was publically owned, I assumed that compassion came before profit and that everyone got good care. . .After I entered medical school, however, my view of Canadian health care changed…I trained in emergency rooms that were chronically, chaotically, dangerously overcrowded, not only in my hometown of Winnipeg, but all across Canada. I met a middle-aged man with sleep problems who was booked for an appointment with a specialist three years later; a man with pain following a simple hernia repair who was referred to a pain clinic with a two-year wait list; a woman with breast cancer who was asked to wait four more months before starting the lifesaving radiation therapy. According to the government’s own statistics, some 1.2 million Canadians couldn’t get a family doctor. In some rural areas, town councils resorted to lotteries: the winners would get appointments with the only general practitioners around."

Mere anecdotes? Yes, but mine cancel out Moore’s. Where are the stats? Moore emphasizes life-expectancy figures in which the US slightly lags some other Western countries. But life expectancy involves many factors; two that Moore is especially knowledgeable about, obesity and homicide by firearm, are special American plagues. Here’s a stat: The percentage of patients having to wait more than four months for non-emergency surgery is about five times higher in Canada and seven times higher in Britain than it is here. [see Gratzer, 171]

In his EW interview, Moore tacitly admitted that "Sicko" lies about wait times, saying, "Well, okay, let’s set up a system where we don’t have the Canadian wait. Let’s set up a system where we take what they do right and don't do the things that we do wrong." Yes, and let's also make sure that every girl gets to be the prettiest girl in town.

Those who have mastered basic economics can skip this paragraph. Not everyone can have everything they want because there is not an unlimited supply of anything (except maybe air); that’s why Canada and Britain have lotteries to determine who gets treatment. Deciding who gets what and when involves rationing, either by price or by waiting or some combination of the two. If the Mets announced that World Series tickets were free to anyone lining up in front of the Shea Stadium box office, you’d have to go get in line now. Medicare, which isn’t an unlimited benefit, is by itself projected to eat up a third of federal tax revenues by 2030[see Gratzer, p. 7]. There isn’t enough money in the U.S. to pay for free, wait-free top-quality universal health care. The law of supply and demand can no more be repealed than the law that all documentary films must be left-wing. Gratzer's book suggests a real-world solution: decentralization that gives patients more choice: "both failed options [HMOs and Medicare/Medicaid] share one fatal feature. They remove choices from patients and give them to government or corporate bureaucrats. Restricting patient choices in this way, flouting the laws of basic economics, has been a mistake. It's the reason why, while pocket calculators have declined in price from $500 to $5, the price of pacemakers keeps rising."

When Moore visits a British pharmacy in which all drugs cost ten bucks, what he isn’t showing is who invented the drugs: evil American profit-hungry pharmaceutical firms that would effectively be shut down if there were a $10 price limit on all prescriptions. Firms spend hundreds of millions developing and testing a drug while the patent clock ticks down, only to be forced to start over if the drug is rejected by the FDA. If a drug is approved, they have only a few years to recoup costs (and the cost of all the previous failures) by charging "exorbitant" market prices because the drug will soon go generic, i.e. non-exorbitant, i.e. virtually free. The Brits freeload on American technology. Being regulated to death is the reason the once-vibrant European pharmaceutical industry has been lapped by its U.S. counterpart in the last few decades. Want your drugs invented and open-heart surgery performed by the people who gave us FEMA, Amtrak and the CIA? Does the Post Office do a better job than FedEx? I can't mail a package via the federal government without waiting in line 20 minutes--and the Post Office is the best-run federal agency.

Moore is outwardly a genial buffoon; inwardly he is an authoritarian buffoon. He lets it show in two long episodes: a straight-faced interview with the UK’s infamous Commie, Tony Benn, whom Moore presents as an expert on the transformative power of socialism, and the famous-before-anyone-saw-it sequence, first reported in The Post, in which Moore takes some 9/11 rescue workers with lingering health problems to Cuba.

Moore, at a Havana hospital, says he requested that his group receive exactly the same care as any Cuban who walked in—"and that’s exactly what they got." As comedy, this statement is on a par with the sex scene in "Knocked Up," the chest waxing in "The 40-Year-Old Virgin" and the moment in "An Inconvenient Truth" when Al Gore tells us that the ecology’s no. 1 enemy, China, is in fact "on the cutting edge" of environmentalism.

In the Cuba section of "Sicko," so many guys in white coats (don't look at the camera, guys!) scurry around Moore’s patients listening to symptoms, peering at X-rays and firing up high-tech medical equipment that the scene seems to have been co-written by Groucho and Karl Marx. If Fidel himself gets this level of care, it’s no wonder the guy has outlasted nine presidents.

You can’t film anywhere in Castro’s Alcatraz without government say-so, meaning the whole scene was as phony as what happens when Frank Bruni walks into a four-star restaurant, and if there is a Michael Moore of Cuba, he is in jail right now. Reporters without Borders calls Cuba the world’s second biggest prison for journalists after China. But Moore solemnly reports Cuba’s official health statistics, which are of course a fiction dreamed up by El Presidente, because Moore's motto is to trust no authority figure from cringing corporate spokesman on up to Washington windbags. Except dictators. Dictators, he’ll take your word for it. I expected Moore to protect himself with a thin coat of disclaimer, just a line to say, "Look, I know Cuba is actually a prison nation where nobody’s gotten a new car since Fredo betrayed Michael, but I’m just using this as an extreme example for ironic purposes." Instead, his irony runs the other way: He plays scare music over an image of Castro to get a laugh. I say that again: he thinks the idea that Castro is evil is so obviously ridiculous that he says it sarcastically and expects you to giggle along. Moore calls Cuban health care among the best in the world. Nonsense. Cuba is short on everything from clean drinking water and aspirin on up.

The health care industry could not ask for a more ideal opponent than Moore; the idea that US health should go to a single-payer model is held by plenty of reasonable people, but Moore is not one of them. Despite his apparent belief that he can seem moderate by narrating the film in a sing-song, I’m-talking-to-a-child-or-moron tone, the man can no more hide his Marxism than his belly. He presents not only Tony Benn but Che Guevera’s daughter as voices of sanity and, through a French doctor, Moore sneaks in the Marxist slogan "from each according to his ability, to each according to his needs." Everyone who has ever lived in a country that put this idea into practice has found that it actually means this: Give the country whatever it asks for and take back whatever it gives you, and do so without complaint or go to prison. Moore also runs lots of old Soviet propaganda footage with comical music on the soundtrack as if to suggest that Stalin was just another campy, overhyped entertainment figure--Martin Short with a mustache.

Moore has been along long enough that his ideas are starting to contradict one other; on his Web site, he once said of Al Qaeda’s grunts in Iraq, "They are the REVOLUTION, the minutemen," but in this film he tries to jog around to the right of Paul Wolfowitz: He pretends to be aghast that the prisoners in Guantanamo Bay (is any other group of 380 people in the world receiving as much attention as these guys?) get top medical care. So, Mike: don’t these heroes, these minutemen, deserve a doc?

Moore comes up with a few zingers, though fewer than in previous films. There’s a funny montage of a Congressman making speeches on health care in which he keeps tearing up on cue and talking about how much he loves his mama. Even I laughed when, following an American north of the border to get some CanuckCare, Moore said, "We’re Americans. We go into other countries when we need to." The founder of socialized medicine in Canada is described as the most important man in the country’s history, "even more than Wayne Gretzky!"

Let’s not give too much credit to Moore, though, for what he did about a guy who runs an anti-Moore Web site who was going to be forced to shut it down—because of a health crisis he couldn’t afford. When Moore found out about it, he anonymously sent a $12,000 check, or .0005 of the money he was paid to make this movie. An anonymous check is not actually anonymous if you announce it in a movie; then it becomes simply a bargain method for buying stories in the press that paint you as a nice guy. Moore, of course, has a Castro-ish history of suppressing dissent But he is free to prove himself a patron of the loyal opposition. He can send my check in care of the Post.

Posted by Kyle Smith on June 18, 2007 07:49 PM

Domiziano Arcangeli's article on LA's The Place is live!!!

Yeah!!!! Domi's article in LA's The Place just went live!!! Check it out here and then check out the site because Jane Emery, the Publisher has put together an amazing collection of cool stories, reviews, and resources for the savvy reader.

Enjoy the read! Tell your friends too!:)

Domiziano Arcangeli, whose renown as an actor spans across continents, can soon be seen in the cult horror film Werewolf in a Women’s Prison, directed by Jeff Leroy and screening at the New Beverly Cinema at midnight on Saturday, May 12. In demand around the world, Domiziano has already starred in 37 feature films, 8 television series, and several theater productions in the United States and his native Italy. This year, fans can look forward to numerous new projects for Domi, such as the supernatural thriller The Seer, the TNT miniseries Bible Proven, and the independent comedy Thrust.

Domi launched his acting career in Italy at the age of 13 with a part in The Good Soldier, directed by Academy Award winner Franco Brusati. Since then, the international film industry has sought his skills and talent as well. He is equally comfortable with playing the villain or the hero; starring in films, TV shows, or music videos; or taking advantage of his fluency in Italian, English, or French.

U.S. audiences may best remember Domi for his role in The Name of the Rose, starring Sean Connery and Christian Slater, or Devil’s Highway with Dennis Hopper, but his Stateside exposure extends further. Domi has also garnered screen time with parts in Sin’s Kitchen on Showtime, Cannibal World on Cinemax, and Chromium Blue for Showtime Beyond. Along the way, Domi has worked with respected directors and producers such as Federico Fellini, Jean Jacques Annaud, Franco Brusati, and Zalman King.

But here’s a bit about this international actor in his own words…

What is your favorite genre of film to act in and why?
  I should say personal films. Because they are unique, they sometimes create a style, they’re groundbreaking and they empower the imagination. I believe in filmmaking. I’m aware of the necessities of the industry, but as an artist I’m fascinated by the creative process. I think it is important to make movies outside the system because they let the stories and authors speak for themselves. And for the actors it is more of a challenge: it is like life, you can’t think of it too much, you have to go for it!

What was it like being in a Fellini film?
  The movie was called Intervista and was made in 1987. It changed my career, and it deeply affected me at the end. Some of his advice and corrections, some of his looks, the way he would operate on a movie set…I will never be able to forget that. He taught me how to use my eyes for the camera, which I think is the foundation of the job. He was a true visionary.

Tell me about some of the directors you’ve worked with. What makes them stand out in your mind?
  I have always been fascinated by directors: I love to see what I can do under different eyes!
  Liliana Cavani who was internationally well known for The Night Porter directed me in a movie about the moving story of St. Francis of Assisi with Mickey Rourke and Helena Bonham-Carter. Cavani was an incredible director, so delicate and shy but powerful and energetic like nobody I had seen before. She was very demanding.
  Mauro Bolognini who has done many, many movies in Europe and he’s a part of film history also. He became one of my closest friends in Rome. I could have not lived without his precious advice. He had an extremely careful eye; he would notice everything, even the smallest imperfection…
  Tinto Brass, the controversial master of Peter O’Toole’s Caligula. He directed me in a movie called Paprika which took place in post World War Italy and talked openly about brothels and how they influenced our costumes, love, sex behavior, and history as well. He was another extremely visionary director and a real pleasure to work with.  He was so generous and funny, yet so deeply affecting in his directions.
  And all the cult directors I worked with from Umberto Lenzi to Aldo Lado to Stelvio Massi or Joe D’Amato and Anthony Dawson, just to name a few, who made very innovative horror/Sci Fi  adventure films, sometimes with minimal budgets, able to create atmosphere and situations that today are still influencing many directors internationally.
  Zalman King directed me for 2 years in the Showtime series Chromium Blue. A real master of the lights and beautiful images! Temperamental and mercurial, but one of the best of the Erotica genre ever!
  I’ve learned from every director I’ve worked with!

What sets you apart from other actors?
  I always rely on my emotions. If they don’t ring true, I won’t even be able to speak the lines properly. I think I have a very distinguished look, and my acting goes along with that. I don’t have a real method but listen to myself and when I’m playing a character I try to give it my own personal experience to make it come alive. I’m always intense, I believe.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
  Be patient, be wise, work hard, never give up, work harder, and don’t say no to anything. If you are an actor you need to be working on stage, not going out at night!

What can we expect to see you in the upcoming months?
  A bunch of projects are waiting for distribution. I cannot even name them all! Flores De Perversion by cult director Jesus Franco just opened in Spain and South America; the campy horror, Werewolf in A Woman’s Prison will be released in August (screening May 19 at the New Beverly), along with the TV mini series Bible Proven, and The Seer will open wide in Europe in the fall and eventually here.

More on Domiziano on IMDB

www.domizianoarcangeli.com

Jeff Goldblum's still got it!

I don't know if any of you will remember this show or not, but I fell for Jeff Goldblum when I first caught him in Tenspeed and Brown Shoe. It's going back a long time, but I loved that show!

Now he's back as a similar character and he's great! This new show of his reminds me a bit of that one, but with a twist.

Ready for another walk down memory lane a la Joy? Okay, here goes. Years back, maybe 8 or so if my memory holds true - I was pregnant at the time, it must have been then, I volunteered to work on the Independent Spirit Awards because I had the time and always loved independent film back then. I worked in the office with the producer and had to man the office while the show went on.

Well, Jeff Goldblum was one of the guests and I had a HUGE crush on him. When I saw him walking down the carpet I went over and made a point to meet him. When I told him I thought he was wonderful (remember I'm in love!) he was so cute. He was shaking my hand and took it in both of his and looked me deep in the eyes in that way he has and said, "Thank you so much, it's so nice to meet you."

Aren't I the biggest goof? Fortunately, that was a long time ago and now I'm not so awestruck when I see a celebrity (or I couldn't do my job!) I do think he's still adorable though. He's so quirky! Has anyone else gone to see him perform with his jazz band? Lots of fun, although I wish he'd speak to the audience in between sets. A girl can dream right?

Speaking of which, I'm tired and going to bed. It's been a busy day and tomorrow isn't slowing down any.