Warning: This is not an unbiased review. I love Las Brisas Restaurant for its incomparable location. The place is quaint, just comfortable enough to satisfy, with flashy rose gardens in seasonal bloom,  but make no mistake, it is the ocean which holds pride of place. It sits on a promontory overlooking the sun-dappled Pacific Ocean, with curving Laguna Beach to the south replicating vistas of  Italy’s Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, our families’ ancestral home.

For us former Chicagoans, the place, especially in January, represents a fantasy of beauty and breezes (hence the name – The Breezes) to which we’ve brought our most beloved family and friends. Our Chicago-born fathers, Mike DeCarlo and Pete Rocco, taking their first plane ride in their 80s, relished the experience of eating in sunshine on a winter day. My sister, Christine, and others have shared our delight in merely being in this sublimely spectacular spot. Native Californians cannot fathom the depth of pleasure experienced by we cold-clime folk, who find ourselves squinting into the winter sun as we munch delicious Las Brisas nachos on the terrace. We can almost feel we’re again visiting fabled Positano, Italy, seated on the terrace of the celebrated San Pietro Hotel. The scenery is that similarly spectacular. Any visitor will respond favorably to the sensual charm of the area.

We are not alone in our devotion to the Las Brisas experience. The Southern California landmark began in 1938 as the Victor Hugo Inn. It became Las Brisas in 1979, and has been a magnet for visitors from all over the world, not just Chicago. Having on-property valet parking is no small thing in a beach town with limited street parking.

Of course the food is lovely…the calamari is particularly delicate and flavorful with a soft garlic lemon butter sauce ($10.25) that is a fine introduction to whatever comes next. On one recent visit we had our favorites on the patio –fish and chips and cheesy nachos – yummy. The patio has its own menu, separate from the inside dining room. Last week the couple seated next to us on the patio were visiting from Naperville, Illinois, a town near our former Downers Grove hometown.Noticing my Cubs bag they struck up a conversation and we had the most pleasant time talking about our rotten-weather Chicago and how glorious is Las Brisas.

Reservations are taken but the promise of a window seat is withheld. Therefore to increase your chances of unobstructed ocean views try going on a Monday when there is more opportunity to snag a window table to catch sight of the pelicans fishing for their lunch or if one is lucky seeing dolphin play dates carousing in the distance.  There is an outcrop of rocks off the gazebo viewing area which is home to marine birds and mammals – I think they may be seals.

The place offers Mexican Riviera seafood dishes, as well as beef and chicken entrees for breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch and cocktails. My lunch dish of four large sea scallops sautéed in spicy chardonnay with garlic butter sauce and wild mushrooms was marvelously fresh-tasting and flavorful ($17.50).  I’ve enjoyed the Ensalada de Primavera –substituting romaine for the spring greens but keeping the caramelized walnuts, pear, cranberries, feta cheese with a citrus-ginger dressing. ($6.50). Never having acquired a taste for alcohol I cannot speak for the drinks but I did notice margarita cocktails were priced at $9.50.

For those seeking every opportunity for beautiful vistas it is worth mentioning a small park with gorgeous views reached off Pacific Coast Highway by turning right (if you are driving south) onto Crescent Bay St. Continue to the end of the cul-de-sac and park on the street. The little park provides wonderful views up and down the coastline. The town of Laguna Beach is filled with art galleries and other interesting shops. Begin and end at Las Brisas and you are sure to enjoy it all.

Las Brisas Restaurant
361 Cliff Drive
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949-497-5434 – reservations online –
www.lasbrisaslagunabeach.com

Angela Rocco DeCarlo, copyright, 2010

The all-ages charity event features FREE BBQ, Live Blues Bands, Comedy Acts, Golf, Cooking Demonstrations and More!

Johnsonville Sausage invites you to celebrate this Father’s Day, Sunday June 20th, 2010 at Poppa-Palooza, a one-of-a-kind, all ages music and comedy festival featuring Chicago’s greatest personalities, musicians and comedians at America’s Historic Roundhouse in Aurora, IL. The phenomenal line-up includes legendary WGN radio personality Steve Cochran, WGN-TV’s Mike Toomey, with popular Chicago  comedian Patty Vasquez, and Travel Channel’s Mark DeCarlo alongside the band Old Blues Eyes. Doors open at 5pm and festival continues until 11pm. America’s Historic Roundhouse is located at 205 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children under 12. All tickets include two (2) FREE Johnsonville Brats and all Dads will receive a FREE raffle ticket. Tickets can be purchased by calling 630-264-2739 or visiting www.rh34.com .
Poppa-Palooza will include a fun-filled afternoon of golf contests, incredible raffle prices, live music & comedy, cooking demonstrations, competitions, a live auction and surprise guests. This event is geared to gives Dad’s a day off while helping to raise money for what they treasure most: kids. A portion of proceeds will go to benefit www.almosthomekids.org, an organization that enhances the lives of children facing serious and ongoing medical challenges.

“We’ve got an amazing venue here at America’s Roundhouse, great comedians and Old Blues Eyes will rock the Roundhouse! It’s a great way to celebrate Father’s Day in Aurora, helping the Almost Home Kids Foundation. Really, is there anything Dad’s love more than kids?” says Mark DeCarlo, Travel Channel host and leader of the band. “I mean besides golf, beer and BBQ cooked by someone else?”
“I love the Roundhouse and having nothing but fun on Father’s Day!” says Steve Cochran. “Don’t get Dad a tie. Get him tickets to Poppa-Palooza.”

POPPA-PALOOZA OFFICIAL LINE UP
Father’s Day, June 20^th, 2010
Festival 5-11PM. Doors open at 5PM. Show at 7PM.
5 PM  DOORS OPEN

6 PM – 8 PM GOLFSMITH PUTTA-PALOOZA PUTTING CONTEST
Every player gets a $10 Goldsmith gift card. All 10 finalists will get a $25 Golfsmith card & Weber cookbook. Winner gets Grand Prize: A custom Fit set of MacGregor irons + driver + bag.

7 PM – 8:30 PM MUSIC
Blues from Mark DeCarlo and the band Old Blues Eyes  www.oldblueseyes.com
8:30 PM RAFFLE/AUCTION
WGN Radio’s Steve Cochran and Mark DeCarlo host the live auction and award raffle prizes.

COMPETITION: Funniest WGN Listener comedy competition. Winner wins a showcase spot at a future Roundhouse Comedy night
9:00 – 11:00 PM   COMEDY
Mark DeCarlo

Patti Vasquez
Mike Toomey
Steve Cochran

Plus
Poppa-Popular Raffles & Live Auctions
* Fender Strat signed by Buddy Guy donated by Guitar Center
* Weber S-310 Genesis Grill & accessories
* Bed & Breakfast Weekend at the Palmer House Hilton

* Gift Certificate from Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants
* 4 almost Front Row Cubs Tickets from Image Base
* A round of Golf with Steve Cochran at Bollingbrook Golf Club
* Custom-fit set of MacGregor Irons, driver + golf bag from Golfsmith
*Comfort Suites/Roundhouse weekend package
*Best Buy merchandise
*Dinner & show from Buddy Guy’s Legends Bar

* Plus more gifts and surprises

+++++++++++++++++++++

RECAP

EVENT: 1st Annual Poppa-Palooza 2010, a Father’s Day music and comedy celebration  with BBQ, live music, comedy, games, live auction, raffles, prizes, cooking demonstrations, surprise guests, and great fun for the whole family benefiting AlmostHomeKids.org.

DATE/ TIME: Father’s Day June 20^th 2010 5pm-11pm

LOCATION: America’s Historic Roundhouse -205 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL 60505

TICKETS: Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children under 12 and ALL TICKETS INCLUDE TWO (2) FREE JOHNSONVILLE BRATS and All Dads get FREE RAFFLE TICKETS. Tickets for the festival are currently available for purchase by calling 630-264-2739 or online at www.rh34.com .

The largest humor festival in the world, the Just For Laughs Festival features scores of stand-up comedy events, concerts, plays, skits, street theatre, parades and more fun than a barrel of monkeys. Headliners include John Leguizamo, Latin King of comedy and Emmy-award winning actor, who’ll present his new, uncensored one-man show, “Klass Klown”. Not to be missed are Cheech & Chong, the world’s favorite stoners who are back for a night of smokin’ hot comedy, hosting their own Videotron Just For Laughs Gala, Then there’s Pamela Anderson, the most downloaded woman in the world, who’ll host an hilariously high-concept evening with her Dancing with the Stars partner Damian Whitewood.  For tickets, call 514-845-4069.

The free Urban Arts program that follows the Festival is quirkiness at its best – chockablock with every variety of passion, talent and licensed madness…all brought together into major events in public spaces.  Beyond the Parade of Twins are majestic parades of fantastical characters who leave a mysterious impression in their wake; a huge outdoor dance party; wandering stilt troupes; Rock Band and Guitar Hero contests: a procession of tumblers, acrobats and other masters of imagination; light shows and pyrotechnics; face-painting and clowns, mimes and harlequins; and, if all this isn’t enough — Live-on-the-Street, the story of a musician wandering with his double bass, an instrument that thinks it’s a dog and socializes with the audience!

If your sides hurt from laughing, you can always explore the fabulous city of Montréal, Discover the Ice Age at the Montréal Science Center; run the Lachine Rapids in a jet boat; amble through the Montreal Botanical Gardens; or rocket up to 68 mph on the new Goliath roller coaster at La Ronde. In Old Montreal (the town was founded in 1642) are narrow streets lined with 19th-century buildings, many transformed into art galleries and cafés.

As for the culinary arts, Montreal is jam-packed with wonderful food and wine establishments (mwah!) and there are plenty of family-fare eateries as well. No fewer than five different Just For Laughs packages are available — from a one-night VIP Gala Evening to a five-night Laugh ‘n Pass package that includes a souvenir swag bag, three main floor tickets to one of the Videotron Just For Laughs galas, five tickets per person to a Club Series themed show, and more. Plus, there are a dozen hotels to choose among.

Check out the Just For Laughs Festival presented by Videotron web site:  www.hahaha.com. For more information: Call 514-845-4069 or for reservations call 1 877 484-4242.

Kick start your summer with FIRST FRIDAYS, the new, live, monthly comedy and music variety show starting June 4^th, 2010 @ 9:00PM at the fabulous LIFE on Wilshire featuring the band Old Blues Eyes lead by Mark DeCarlo.  Entrance is free, food is scrumptious, and drinking is encouraged. Giveaways include FREE BAR TAB for the night’s winning Band-E-Okee table. LIFE on Wilshire is located at 1521 N. Vine St. Hollywood, CA.  For more info visit the Facebook Page: OLD BLUES EYES & www.OldBluesEyes.com
WHO: Presented by Mark DeCarlo and Life on Wilshire

WHAT: FIRST FRIDAYS at Life on Wilshire: Hollywood’s premiere comedy & music show featuring Mark DeCarlo and the band Old Blues Eyes with established A-List performers providing Hollywood with a unique show every First Friday of every month.
WHEN: Friday June 4^th, 2010 at 9:30PM (and continuing EVERY FIRST FRIDAY of every month (7/2, 8/6 etc.)

WHERE: LIFE on Wilshire  6311 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048 (323) 651-5433

TICKETS:              FREE ENTRANCE

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

MARK DECARLO & OLD BLUES EYES (www.markdecarlo.com)

When “Studs” took TV by storm, host MARK DECARLO took to the road. A Chicago native, DeCarlo used the popularity from his television series (Big Deal, Good Night America, the X Show and most recently Taste of America) to play the blues all over the US. Finally after years sitting in with the likes of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Cowboy Mouth, Meatloaf, Keb Mo, Taj Mahal, and the Queen of the Blues Ms. Koko Taylor, Mark knew it was time to transform into his musical alter-ego, TORNADO JOHNSON, put together a band and hit the road.  The result, OLD BLUES EYES, features players from LA, Toronto and Chicago – the hottest session guys and composers cold beer and good BBQ can buy. The band is a high energy, at times hilarious, audience blues explosion.  No two shows are ever the same. Sometimes Mark will bring up singers up out of the audience, some nights he’ll become part of the audience himself.  That’s what happens when Tornado Johnson and his five piece musical marauders get up and play. With Paul Rosenthal (lead guitar), Sal Alessandro (bass guitar), Marco Luciani (keyboards), and Paul Kristan (drums), Old Blues Eyes has headlined for CBS Studios & the Deal or No Deal Celebrity Golf Event, rocked the Jimmy Kimmel stage at the Hollywood San Gennaro Festival, and jammed in joints too small to change their pants. No matter where they play, the results are always the same: BIG BAD BLUES.

ABOUT LIFE ON WILSHIRE:

Life offers a quality wine list, sumptuous cuisine and excellent service to create an elegant, affordable dining experience.  They offer a full bar with their signature cocktails, as well as fabulous margaritas or mojitos by the pitcher.  Their intimate environment and friendly staff is dedicated to making your visit comfortable and truly satisfying.  From fresh salads to warming pastas, delicious starters and eloquent entrees, Life is sure to offer something to satisfy everyone in the group.  Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just looking to escape your own kitchen, LIFE won’t disappoint.

For media inquiries, or to set up an interview with any of the artists, please contact Yeni Alvarez @ alvarezmediapr@gmail.com or call 213.840.3158.

What?
Shecky’s is an online and event destination for what’s cool and undiscovered in FASHION, BEAUTY and FUN with the girls.

From emerging designers to great beauty discoveries, delicious cocktails to free giveaways— Shecky’s offers a wonderland for girls to SHOP, SAMPLE & SCORE the world of things girls love.

How?
Shecky’s partners with 1200+ cool companies a year to bring women the latest and greatest in fashion, beauty, entertainment, and more in unique web and event experiences that can be shared with friends.

Why?
Because once in a while, women need a place to escape, where we can indulge, pamper ourselves and have some quality girl time—without the boys!

What’s Shecky’s Mission?
To spoil girls with fashion, beauty, fun and the best girlfriend group experiences.

Shop Fabulous LA!

Date: Wed.-Thu., May 19th-20th, 2010
Time: 5pm-10pm
Place: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
1855 Main St. (Pico Blvd. & Colorado Ave.)

TO PURCHASE TICKETS PLEASE VISIT THIS LINK:

http://girlsnightout.sheckys.com/?rf=LA_TravelingDiva

and choose “Socialista” from the “We’re very curious! How did you hear about this event?” drop down menu on the checkout page and write in my full name, YENI ALVAREZ.

See you there!!!

EdenLA and Los Angeles Magazine have announced an exclusive event Thursday, May 13 at 6:30pm with a night of tapas, wine and furniture!  They are certain you’ll find them to be an amazing resource to clients of discerning tastes.  Designers, architects and real estate professionals, amongst the area’s leading voices and VIPs will mingle surrounded by comfy furnishings and luxurious fabrics.

Those lucky enough to get invited can be seen and heard at:

edenla

11600 San Vicente Blvd
Los Angeles, CA
90049

Phone: 310-820-8109
Email: edenla@edenla.com

See you there!  I’ll be the one by the clown.

ODD WEDNESDAYS, the new, live, bimonthly comedy and music variety show returns on Wednesday, April 21^st, 2010 @ 9:30PM at the famous Ivan Kane’s Café Was featuring an amazing lineup of talented bands, singer-songwriters, and comedians coming together for the newest comedy & music showcase in Hollywood.  The April 21^st event will feature stellar performances by Mark DeCarlo, Rob Paulsen, Audrey Turner, Billy Kent, Alan Murray, John Diresta, Joey Gian, Picard Manuever, Roxanne Ferrara, and the house band Old Blues Eyes. Tickets are only $5. Ivan Kane’s CAFÉ WAS is located at 1521 N. Vine St. Hollywood, CA.  For artists individual bios please see below or visit the Facebook Page: ODD WEDNESDAYS & www.oddwednesdays.com

WHO: Presented by Mark DeCarlo and Ivan Kane’s Café Was

WHAT: ODD WEDNESDAYS at Café Was: A bi-monthly comedy & music show featuring established A-List performers and artists, together with a select up-and-coming singer/songwriters, providing Hollywood with a unique show every month. The April 21st event will feature performances by Mark DeCarlo, Rob Paulsen, Audrey Turner, Billy Kent, Alan Murray, John Diresta, Joey Gian, Picard Manuever, Roxanne Ferrara, and the house band Old Blues Eyes
WHEN: Wednesday, April 21st, 2010 at 9:30PM (and continuing 5/5, 5/19)

WHERE: Ivan Kane’s CAFÉ WAS 1521 N. Vine St. Hollywood, CA (323) 466-5400

TICKETS:              $5 Cover

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

MARK DECARLO & OLD BLUES EYES www.markdecarlo.com

When “Studs” took TV by storm, host MARK DECARLO took to the road. A Chicago native, DeCarlo used the popularity from his television series (Big Deal, Good Night America, the X Show and most recently Taste of America) to play the blues all over the US. Finally after years sitting in with the likes of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Cowboy Mouth, Meatloaf, Keb Mo, Taj Mahal, and the Queen of the Blues Ms. Koko Taylor, Mark knew it was time to transform into his musical alter-ego, TORNADO JOHNSON, put together a band and hit the road.  The result, OLD BLUES EYES, features players from LA, Toronto and Chicago – the hottest session guys and composers cold beer and good BBQ can buy. The band is a high energy, at times hilarious, audience blues explosion.  No two shows are ever the same. Sometimes Mark will bring up singers up out of the audience, some nights he’ll become part of the audience himself.  That’s what happens when Tornado Johnson and his five piece musical marauders get up and play. Old Blues Eyes has headlined for CBS Studios & the Deal or No Deal Celebrity Golf Event, rocked the Jimmy Kimmel stage at the Hollywood San Gennaro Festival, and jammed in joints too small to change their pants. No matter where they play, the results are always the same: BIG BAD BLUES.

BILLY KENT

Billy Kent is a singer songwriter born in Los Angeles and raised in Highland Park (Northeast LA.) His songs are influenced from the many cultures and sounds of the city. His first full-length album “Soul Soft” was released January 1, 2008. Artist that have recorded Billy’s songs include: Tower of Power, Vinx, and new artist Leigh Jones.  In 1987 Billy wrote “Baby’s Got the Power” with Greg Adams, Tower of Power’s long-time horn arranger, and Ellis Hall. He later wrote the lyrics for three more Tower of Power tunes: “Someone New”, “It All Comes Back”, and “Quiet Scream”. Vinx, world jazz artist, recorded “Just One Dance”, and “Who Did You”. www.billykent.com

JOHN DIRESTA

John DiResta is the real deal. He was raised on the rough and tumble streets of Long Island, where all he did was drink beer, listen to heavy metal and make fun of people. If you got mocked by John DiResta, then you were in with the in crowd. After dropping out of two colleges (New Paltz and Nassau Community) John took the New York City Police Exam. On July 15th, 1986 John was sworn into the worst police department in the history of the world, the New York City Transit Police. In 1992 John started his comedy career in the bowels of the New York comedy circuit. Five years later his one man show, BEAT: A Subway Cop’s Comedy, open to raved reviews. The New York Times called him “UPROARIOUS. John quit the police department and moved his wife and three kids to the west coast. Hits include Miss Congeniality, 15 Minutes with Robert De Niro, Tonight Show with Jay Leno and the Howard Stern Show. In the spring of 2004 John’s show, Trash to Cash, premiered on the FX Network. John then went on to star in How To Loose a Guy in Ten Days and Miss Congeniality Two. In the fall of 2007 John began work on his next two TV adventures: American Body Shop was on Comedy Central for one year and Hammered lasted two seasons on HGTV/DIY Networks. www.johndiresta.com

ROB PAULSEN

Robert Fredrick Paulsen, III (born March 11, 1956), sometimes credited as Rob Paulson, is an American voice actor best known as the voice behind “Raphael” from the 1987 cartoon of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, “Yakko Warner” and “Dr. Otto Scratchansiff” from Animaniacs, “Pinky” from Pinky and the Brain and Animaniacs, and Throttle from the 1990s and 2006 versions of Biker Mice From Mars. His role as “Yakko” won him a Daytime Emmy Award for male vocal performance; he won a second one for his portrayal of “Pinky”. He was also “Prince Eric” in The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea. In total, Paulsen has been the voice of over 250 different animated characters and performed in over 1000 commercials. He continues to play minor parts in dozens of cartoons as well as supporting characters in animated movies. www.robpaulsenfans.com

AUDREY TURNER

San Francisco-born Audrey Madison Turner attributes her musical inclination to her parents. Audrey founded “Madison Avenue,” with contributions from musical genius Stevie Wonder.  The family-based group produced hits including  “Buttercup” and “Much In Love.”  Additionally, she became the assistant choreographer to Lon Fontaine of Motown, creating routines for major superstars such as Aretha Franklin, the Temptations, and the Pointer Sisters and graced the stage with Chuck Berry, Little Richard, BB King and Little Milton.  Then Ike Turner took an unabashed liking to Audrey.  After meeting Ike Turner through a mutual friend Madison-Turner didn’t think twice about sharing the stage and going on tour with the man himself.  Their professional relationship eventually segued into a romantic one, leading to a wedding years later.  Ike and Audrey recorded multiple tracks together on his Live Montreaux Jazz Festival CD and Ike Turner’s Final CD before his historic passing in December of 2007.  She is currently writing a book about the last years of their life together. Audrey Madison-Turner will soon release her first solo album, appropriately titled “Picking Up The Pieces.”  Empowered by her sexuality, the R&B sex-symbol’s vocals have a haunting passion and her looks are reminiscent of a young Tina Turner. With the subtle, yet dominant sultriness of Chaka Kahn and the mystifying huskiness and tone of Macy Gray, Audrey is a fusion of today’s best female vocalists with a personal twist. She is active in various charitable efforts and delighted to help those causes that are advocates for mentally and physically abused women.  www.audreyturner.net

JOEY GIAN

“Joey Gian is a soul singer, even when he’s singing standards.  He’s a great storyteller, and he knows how to work a lyric.” –Ruth Brown, 1993 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee.  Though Joy Gian is a gifted actor and acclaimed songwriter, he says” “When I’m onstage and the music takes over, I am in a state of true bliss; when I am singing, what you hear is the essence of who I am. “

PICARD MANUEVER

Picard Maneuver is a comedy duo specializing in nerd-based humor that all ages and audiences can enjoy. Formed by Adam Fanshier and Mike Hover in 2007, they combined elements of musical comedy, vaudeville, physical comedy, audience interaction, and improvisation to make their distinctive act. Adam and Mike’s unique brand of humor comes from their honest presentation of their personal lives. They are two nerds trying to make it in a world full of “cool kids”. Everyone has felt like an outsider at one point. You don’t have to be a nerd or ever watched an episode of Star Trek to enjoy Picard Maneuver (even though their name comes from a specific episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation). The boys don’t make fun of their audiences, instead they allow each audience to laugh at themselves (such as Mike’s unusually memorable way of picking up women: “The Wookie Dance”) The two joined with the intent to “Bring back the style of comedy popularized by classic duos such as Bing and Bob, Martin and Lewis, and The Smothers Brothers.” And audiences sure seem to enjoy their ideology. From comedy clubs and bars, to the halls of prison (yes, they’ve performed in prison), Picard Maneuver has been delighting audiences all over California. Whether you were beating up nerds in high school, the one thrown into a trashcan, or watching it from afar, Picard Maneuver is the comedy group for you. www.picardmaneuvercomedy.com

ROXANNE FERRARA

Born into a musical family, Roxanne’s parents were choral directors, voice teachers, pianists & singers.  In addition to her strict ballet training, she was immersed in classical studies until she discovered musical theatre.  Upon graduating from The American Musical & Dramatic Academy of NYC, Roxanne further expanded her music repertoire to rock, pop, country and blues. The past few years of theatre and touring brought Roxanne to LA and she’s thrilled to be joining Old Blue Eyes!! www.roxanneferrara.com

ABOUT IVAN KANE AND CAFÉ WAS

With the phenomenal success of Ivan Kane’s Forty Deuce in both the Hollywood club and at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, and his newest venture, Ivan Kane’s Café Was, a bistro, bar and live music venue, the entrepreneur has added his own unique blend of excitement and edge to going out, turning “nightlife into a more theatrical experience.” Unique materials, salvaged bars, balusters and doors along with distressed plaster walls, antique mirrors and velvet curtains make up the mystical space. The revolving 1924 Mason and Hamlin grand piano offers optimal views and can be removed for other performances. Ivan Kane’s been called an impresario and a nightlife guru, but most of all Ivan Kane is an innovator. “I’m constantly looking to redefine nightlife,” he concludes, “by doing the unexpected.”  Reservations or Information: 323.466.5400 www.cafewas.com

For media inquiries, or to set up an interview with any of the artists, please contact Yeni Alvarez @ oddwednesdayshow@gmail.com or call 213.840.3158.

###

The 12th edition of the Spa Week Event is slated for April 12th – 18th, 2010. In total, the nationwide Spa Week Spring Event will include 30 markets and a list of participating spas will be posted on www.spaweek.com by mid-March. The Spring Spa Week Event will bring $50 spa treatments to consumers at over 800 spas across North America. As always, the goal is to introduce a new generation of consumers to the benefits of a healthy lifestyle by opening up the spa industry to the masses. Spa Week has spent the last 6 years turning “wellness” from a mere buzzword into a healthy reality.

Thanks to the efforts of Spa Week and their Spa Week Spring and Fall Events, the spa industry now offers health benefits to an unprecedented cross-section of the American public. Since its inception, Spa Week has afforded hundreds of thousands of people the ability to heal, strengthen, and energize at the spa. Spa Week has dashed the old myth that the spa is where the rich and famous go to be pampered; thanks to the success of the Spring and Fall Events, over 350,000 affordable spa treatments have been booked and enjoyed by average Americans since 2004.

Never content to rest on past successes, though, each Spa Week Event brings the cutting edge of health and wellness technology to the average consumer. In addition to offering traditionally beneficial stress-busting and immune-boosting spa treatments like massage, Spa Week brings intensive, clinical therapies to consumers at the same $50 price point with hundreds of participating medi-spas all over the country.

As the healthcare crisis rages on in Washington, Spa Week’s mission to educate consumers to the health benefits of the spa lifestyle is more important—and more successful—than ever. Spa Week affords everyone the ability to experience the incredible physical benefit of spa treatments and therapies.

Spa Week was created and founded by Cheryl Reid, who hails from successful careers within the luxury spa industry and publishing spheres. Spa Week is thrilled to announce it’s 2010 Presenting and Title Sponsor: Dove Deodorant; National Media Sponsor: Allure Magazine; Exclusive Cosmetic Sponsor: Bare Escentuals; Exclusive Wine Sponsor: Rioja; Exclusive Destination Sponsor: Canyon Ranch; Exclusive Wedding Sponsor: The Wedding Channel; Exclusive Fashion Sponsor: Fashion Week Daily; and Exclusive Spa Association Partner: ISPA.

Content borrowed from www.spaweek.com

Hollywood’s Premiere Comedy and Music Showcase, Continues With an All-Star Line-Up featuring performances by Brad Sherwood, Tom Wilson, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Horns, John Ernst,Mark DeCarlo, Jimmy & Joey, Hempstead Nursery, Erin Ragland, Roxanne Ferrara, and the house band Old Blues Eyes

ODD WEDNESDAYS, the new, live, bimonthly comedy and music variety show returns on Wednesday, March 31st, 2010 @ 9:30PM at the famous Ivan Kane’s Café Was featuring an amazing lineup of talented bands, singer-songwriters, and comedians coming together for the newest comedy & music showcase in Hollywood.  The March 31^st All Star event will feature stellar performances by Brad Sherwood, Tom Wilson, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Horns, John Ernst, Mark DeCarlo, Jimmy & Joey, Hempstead Nursery, Erin Ragland, Roxanne Ferrara, and the house band Old Blues Eyes. Show starts at 9:30PM and tickets are only $5. Ivan Kane’s CAFÉ WAS is located at 1521 N. Vine St. Hollywood, CA.  For artists individual bios please see below or visit the Facebook Page: ODD WEDNESDAYS & www.oddwednesdays.com

*
WHO: Presented by Mark DeCarlo and Ivan Kane’s Café Was
*
WHAT: ODD WEDNESDAYS at Café Was: A bi-monthly comedy & music show featuring established A-List performers and artists, together with a select up-and-coming singer/songwriters, providing Hollywood with a unique show every month. The March 31^st event will feature performances by  Brad Sherwood, Tom Wilson, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Horns, John Ernst, Mark DeCarlo, Jimmy & Joey, Hempstead Nursery, Erin Ragland, Roxanne Ferrara, and the house band Old Blues Eyes.

*
WHEN: Wednesday, March 31^st, 2010 at 9:30PM (and continuing EVERY Third WEDNESDAY of every month (4/21, 5/19 etc.), following a Jam Session EVERY First WEDNESDAY of every month (4/7, 5/5 etc.)

*

WHERE: Ivan Kane’s CAFÉ WAS 1521 N. Vine St. Hollywood, CA (323) 466-5400

*

TICKETS:              $ 5.00

*

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

MARK DECARLO & OLD BLUES EYES (www.markdecarlo.com)

When “Studs” took TV by storm, host MARK DECARLO took to the road. A Chicago native, DeCarlo used the popularity from his television series (Big Deal, Good Night America, the X Show and most recently Taste of America) to play the blues all over the US. Finally after years sitting in with the likes of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Cowboy Mouth, Meatloaf, Keb Mo, Taj Mahal, and the Queen of the Blues Ms. Koko Taylor, Mark knew it was time to transform into his musical alter-ego, TORNADO JOHNSON, put together a band and hit the road.  The result, OLD BLUES EYES, features players from LA, Toronto and Chicago – the hottest session guys and composers cold beer and good BBQ can buy. The band is a high energy, at times hilarious, audience blues explosion.  No two shows are ever the same. Sometimes Mark will bring up singers up out of the audience, some nights he’ll become part of the audience himself.  That’s what happens when Tornado Johnson and his five piece musical marauders get up and play. Old Blues Eyes has headlined for CBS Studios & the Deal or No Deal Celebrity Golf Event, rocked the Jimmy Kimmel stage at the Hollywood San Gennaro Festival, and jammed in joints too small to change their pants. No matter where they play, the results are always the same: BIG BAD BLUES.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy HORNS – Since their arrival on the music scene in 1993 in a legendary residency at Los Angeles’ Brown Derby nightclub, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s irresistible live show and aggressive, musically perceptive approach has proven them over time to be the singular standout among the numerous bands that launched the Nineties swing revival. The seven-man group forged a massively successful fusion of classic American sounds from jazz, swing, Dixieland and big-band music, building their own songbook of original dance tunes, and, sixteen years later, BBVD is a veteran force that to this day adds new fans by the roomful every time they play. BBVD’s originals include “You & Me and the Bottle Makes Three (Tonight)” and “Go Daddy-O” featured in the film Swingers. the band’s music has appeared in over sixty movies and television shows, including The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Conan O’Brian and Live with Regis & Kelly. (bbvd.com)

BRAD SHERWOOD

Brad Sherwood is a regular cast member on ABC’s Whose Line Is It Anyway? and was a regular on the British version on Comedy Central as well.  His credits include The Drew Carey Show, The Green Screen Show, The Smartest Guy In Town, VH-1’s I Love The 70s, 80s & 90s and over 100 appearances in sketches on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno. Brad’s other past credits include a season on LA Law, To Tell The Truth, The Newz, guest hosting Talk Soup and hosting The New Dating Game. Brad is currently touring North America with Colin Mochrie in the very successful and critically-acclaimed, two-man improv show appropriately titled An Evening With Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood. (www.bradsherwood.com)

TOM WILSON

Bringing his enthusiasm and charisma to the stage, Tom Wilson has always kept his stand-up comedy clean. His humor is suitable for any audience. With four children, his family humor hits home with many, while stories from his diverse acting career bring laughter to all. He uses his musical talents to get the audience involved and brings the house down with his song parodies as well as performing original songs.

JON ERNST

Jon Ernst is a much sought-after L.A.-based composer and music supervisor. An accomplished singer-songwriter, Jon’s television career began as “Pianoboy,” the on-camera musical director of the classic MTV game show “Singled Out.” Jon is Music Supervisor on MTV’s mega-hits “The Hills” and “The City”, and has worked in that capacity on many other shows, including “Celebrity Circus” (NBC), “Nashville” (Fox) and “Laguna Beach” (MTV). As a composer, Jon scored most episodes of VH1’s legendary “Behind the Music,” as well as the syndicated hit “Ex- Treme Dating” and several original shows for TV Land. A native of Chicago, Jon studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston and is a graduate of the University of Florida. (www.jonernst.com)

JIMMY & JOEY

Jimmy & Joey are everybody’s favorite Italian comedy team. They’ve appeared in some of today’s top television shows like America’s Got Talent, Minding the Store, Last Comic Standing. “Should have been on the Sopranos but they couldn’t meet our price….” explains the funny duo.  “Should have also been in Goodfellas, Godfather 1, Godfather 2, Godfather 3, Casino and My Cousin Vinny.”  Jimmy & Joey can also be seen every Sunday at Jon Lovitz Comedy Club. (www.myspace.com/jimmyandjoey) (www.myspace.com/themeatballsofcomedy)

HEMPSTEAD NURSERY

Hempstead Nursery is fronted by Lead Singer/Songwriter David Floyd.  This Detroit, Michigan native blends his Mid-Western roots and West Coast attitude into a stunning pop-rock mix of melody and lyrics.  On lead guitar is the Motor City’s own Harvey Salter, combining inner city angst with surf punk abandon.  On drums is Indiana export, Todd Torok, providing the beat that moves your feet. Completing the rhythm section is Bassist Jon Newkirk.  Born on the California beach between high tides, Jon’s laid-back style introduces the “tude” you can groove to. Hempstead’s sound is a dynamic mix of hum-till-you-drop pop tunes, haunting melodic ballads, and good old hard-edged, hard driving, rock & roll.The band has been featured on KLOS 95.5 FM’s “Local Licks” program as well as Westwood One’s syndicated “Loveline.” They have also kept busy performing at several Los Angeles area venues including The Roxy and Whiskey A Go-Go. “Soul searching lyrics, sensitive singing, and tasteful arrangements.” – BAM Magazine.“Recommended”-LA Weekly. (www.myspace.com/hempsteadnursery)

ERIN RAGLAND

Singing is something Erin Ragland just decided to do.  She woke up one day at age 5 and just felt like she could, so she did.  “I didn’t look for influences, but was always drawn to songs that were passionate, songs that made your guts come out of your mouth when you sang them,” says Erin.  “Singers like Janis Joplin and Pat Benatar taught me how to feel a song, and I learned how to riff from Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.”  Today it’s Glen Hansard, Susan Tedeschi, Patty Griffin, Toots and the Maytals, Gavin DeGraw, and Amy Winehouse that meld her sound. Odd Wednesdays discovered Erin, or “Rags” as she calls herself, on their opening Jam Session at Café Was, March of 2010. “My first show here in the city, my introduction to Los Angeles, and hopefully it’s just the start.”

ABOUT IVAN KANE AND CAFÉ WAS

With the phenomenal success of Ivan Kane’s Forty Deuce in both the Hollywood club and at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, and his newest venture, Ivan Kane’s Café Was, a bistro, bar and live music venue, the entrepreneur has added his own unique blend of excitement and edge to going out, turning “nightlife into a more theatrical experience.” Unique materials, salvaged bars, balusters and doors along with distressed plaster walls, antique mirrors and velvet curtains make up the mystical space. The revolving 1924 Mason and Hamlin grand piano offers optimal views and can be removed for other performances. Ivan Kane’s been called an impresario and a nightlife guru, but most of all Ivan Kane is an innovator. “I’m constantly looking to redefine nightlife,” he concludes, “by doing the unexpected.”  Reservations or Information: 323.466.5400 www.cafewas.com

For media inquiries, or to set up an interview with any of the artists, please contact Yeni Alvarez @ oddwednesdayshow@gmail.com or call 213.840.3158.

Mama Shelter’s unique name corresponds to its equally new concept.  Normally staying in a boutique hotel designed by  Phillipe Starck does not come cheaply, especially in a major city.  Mama Shelter changes all that.  The rates at Mama Shelter start at 79 Euros.  Anyone who’s stayed in a fine but functional Parisian budget hotel knows this rate can’t be beat.

The first photo shows a typical Paris budget hotel room at a cost of around 100 Euros, the second shows the rooms at Mama Shelter.

Mama Shelter showcases Phillipe Starck’s whimsical eye with graffiti grazing the ceilings and a unique mix of materials that include concrete, glass, and wood.  The eating areas combine old-school or shall I say Old World long wooden tables and benches.  The tech addicted can dine and surf at tables equipped with built in computer screens.  I-Macs, free Wi-Fi, Kiehl’s toiletries and five star bedding await you in your room.  All I can say is “bonjour, baby” and bye-bye to stiff, scratchy sheets.  You’ll find live indie rock and electronica music across the street at La Fleche D’or.

So here’s the deal.  Mama Shelter is in the 20th arrondissement, which in more ways than one lays on the fringes of Paris.  The only touristy thing to do near the hotel, is to visit the nearby Pere Lachaise cemetary.  So expect a metro or bus ride to get to the tourist areas of Paris.  According to the Mama Shelter website the St. Blaise quartier is part of the authentic Paris with cafes, gardens, and an air of rebellion.  Other media indicates this area as “the toughest and least fashionable areas of Paris”.  This burgeoning area is similar to any area entering “hipification”,  think Williamsburg 12 years ago.

Artists as well as new immigrants populate the area drawn by cheap rent and large vacant studio spaces.  This raw, bohemian vibe may not be for everyone.  If you’re interested in getting to know a different part of Paris or perhaps seek some inspirato from fellow creative types then Mama Shelter should top your list.  The nearby Belleville neighborhood deserves a visit as well.

Mama Shelter resulted from the vision of the Trigano family who just so happen to be the founders of  a little business called Club Med.  The Trigano family credit philosopher Cyril Aoizerate as helping to create Mama Shelter.  I’m intrigued by any business that has a philosopher on board.  These visionaries took what was once a multi-story carpark and transformed it into what’s destined to become The trendy hotel of Paris.

A desire to look beyond tourist attractions and explore other areas of a city separates tourists from travelers.  Staying outside of tourist areas give a true peek into the heart of a city.  Mama Shelter promises a stimulating environment within and outside of its confines that beg to be explored.

For more photos check out their flickr page.

Content borrowed from Travelista.com