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WHO: Presented by Mark DeCarlo and Ivan Kane’s CAFE WAS

WHAT: ODD WEDNESDAYS, the newest comedy & music premiere showcase

WHEN: Beginning St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, 2010, (and continuing EVERY ODD WEDNESDAY of every month (3/31, 4/7, 4/21, 5/5, 5/19 etc.)  Doors @ 8 PM Show @ 9 PM

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

TICKETS:   No Cover Charge – Free – 8PM Sign-up, 9PM Jam Session/Open Mic

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SIGN UP FOR JAM SESSION / OPEN MIC – 8 PM

Singer-Songwriters and comedians are welcome to join us to play 1 or 2 songs or sets on a first come first serve basis; e-mail oddwednesdayshow@gmail.com for sign up sheet. Win cool prizes and the chance to be invited to perform with A-List comedians and musicians in our exclusive upcoming shows the third Wednesday of every month at CAFÉ WAS.

ABOUT MARK DECARLO

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. (www.markdecarlo.com)

ABOUT IVAN KANE

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.” His long-range goals include continuing to build the Ivan Kane Enterprises brand and realizing his dream project, a boutique hotel which he has already conceptualized and designed. He’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.”  

ABOUT IVAN KANE’S CAFÉ WAS

Hollywood’s newest and most unique Cafe dining experience, created by nightlife trendsetter Ivan Kane offers an intimate bistro experience and piano lounge. Unlike other Hollywood fine dining establishments, Cafe Was integrates a bohemian feel with chic design and classic Bistro fare, offering unique café dining in this reflective dream world on Sunset and Vine. 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. Wednesday specials: Bohemian Feast- Four Course Prix Fixe Menu only $30.00, Half price flask service in our signature Café Was brown paper bags & Half Price on ALL bottles of wine and champagne with entrée.  Reservations or Information: 323.466.5400 www.cafewas.com

By Angela Rocco DeCarlo, copyright, 2010

There is one more opportunity to experience the thrill of the Metropolitan Opera’s production of George Bizet’s incendiary entertainment, “Carmen,” in a repeat broadcast to movie houses around the world, Wednesday, February 3, 2010, 6:30 p.m. local time.

I saw the show in my neighborhood movie theater, Saturday, January 16, 2010, and would have sat through another performance immediately. This presentation is marvelously entertaining with behind-the-scenes interviews and other sidebars at the Metropolitan Opera house.

“Carmen,” is one of a handful (others are “Tosca,” “Butterfly,” and “Traviata”) of perfect operas for those who have not yet seen an opera, but think they should. It has everything: iconic characters, memorable music and explosive passions. No novice will be disappointed in this show.

Pity Georges Bizet, composer of this blockbuster opera, fourth on the opera “hit parade” of the 20 most performed.  He was hoping for success with the debut of  “Carmen” at the Opera Comique, Paris, March  3, 1875, but audiences were flummoxed by the departure from the usual shows at that venue and completely rejected the opera. It closed soon after opening and sadly Bizet died, at age 37, shortly thereafter, never knowing he had created one of the most successful and enduring operas ever written.

Thanks to liberal use of Bizet’s fiery music in popular culture, even those who never sat in an opera house have a humming acquaintance with Bizet’s exuberant creations for “Carmen” – the “Habanera”; the “Toreador” aria; the “Sequidilla” and more. The librettists, Henri Meilac and Ludovic Halévy, based their work upon the 1845 Prosper Mérimée’s novella of the same name. Their tautly focused script allows even a newcomer to grasp the subtle points of the characters, social references and the logical action of the opera.

As is the fashion these days, the production tinkers with the opera’s time setting, “updating” the scenes from early 19th century to the early 20th century Spanish Civil War. Fortunately, the costume changes make little difference, as the main characters are gypsies and soldiers – their attire remains as expected.

The story takes place in the 2,000 year-old Roman city of Seville, Spain, focusing on the tensions of gypsy women workers in the government monopoly cigarette factory and the military men, presumably guarding the crown’s interests. The soldiers are depicted as uniformed vultures eyeing their prey –the sultry gypsies. The most beautiful of the women is Carmen  – Carmenita, as she tells the men. Played by extraordinary mezzo soprano, Elina Garanca, Carmen is nearly masculine in her swagger of independence, yet certain of her dazzling feminine allure. She infuses the character with something more than mere sex. Garanca’s Carmen has gravitas in her insistence on living without restraints, no matter the consequences. Clearly, she is the “general” among the army men with only her beauty and promise of love as her authority.

The story is simple,  – Carmen sets her sights and a flower on Corporal Don Jose, sung by tenor, Roberto Alagna, the only soldier who pays her no attention, preferring his finance, sweet Micaela, (Barbara Frittoli), who has delivered a message from Jose’s mother. Despite maternal concern, Jose’s fate is sealed. Too soon, love for Carmen destroys his career, his honor and more. Of course, elitist Lieutenant Zuniga, (Keith Miller)  Jose’s commanding officer, thinks Carmen should be his; officers’ privilege. A ruckus among the cigarette women lands Carmen in trouble, but Jose, quickly under her spell, allows her to escape jail, with disastrous results for him.

The opera, sung in French with English supertitles, is in four acts, runs about three and one half hours, and has one intermission, As is traditional with French operas there is plenty of dance, including two pas a duex  before the opening curtains, depicting the lovers’ happiness. That’s a brilliant touch, as happiness is mostly absent within the story.

The action moves quickly from the opening scenes to a barroom gypsy dance and the electrifying entrance of matador Escamillo, the epitome of manly perfection. Played by Teddy Tadu Rhodes, a 6’5’ baritone, Spain’s cultural star trails women into the tavern like so many kite tails. He, too, falls in love with Carmen and the rest of the story does not go well for poor soldier Don Jose.

We’ll leave the plot unrevealed for those who wish to experience it for themselves. However, it’s no surprise Jose ends up with Carmen and her outlaw friends as they plan smuggling operations in the mountains outside Seville. While it is never stated what the smuggled goods are, with the Spanish Crown’s tobacco monopoly, established in 1637, it’s not much of a mystery that cigarette workers are involved.

Roberto Alagna’s Jose is a marvelous match for Elina Garanca’s Carmen. While Carmen is overtly dynamic, Jose’s character only catches fire when ignited by Carmen’s passions. Supporting actors, smugglers Elizabeth Caballero, Sandra Piques Eddy,  Earle Patriarco and Keith Jameson do not fade into stock figures, but are individuals with beautiful voices and particular personalities which add color and energy to the action.  Conductor Yannick Nezef-Seguin moved the orchestra to match the passions seen on stage, in this enthralling production by Richard Eyre.

In the final act, the noisy crowds outside the bullring, relish seeing the country’s heroes, matadors, as they make their grand approach and entrance into the arena They are arrayed in the most colorful and beautiful  costumes seen in the show. Their whip-thin bodies encased in sparkling satins, they command the cynosure their courage demands.  It is a telling scene which speaks to the perennial human desire to create and adore superheros appropriate to the culture. Escamillo controls his image and accepts the worship. His character is a worthy consort to now-regal Carmen, which contrasts to poor Jose’s tragic loss of dignity and honor for the sake of lust.

The final scene, inside the bullring, was lost on the audience in my theater as the lighting was so dim it was impossible to discern details. This has been an on-going problem with the MetHD broadcasts – very dark stages with loss of visuals of supporting actors.

Bizet’s “Carmen” is a timeless story of passion, a tale of a female Don Juan, told with gorgeous music and superlative talent. Anyone who attends the next Met broadcast will count themselves fortunate to have seen this production.

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For information: http://www.metroperafamily.org/HDLive

Angela Rocco DeCarlo, copyright 2010.
Angela Rocco DeCarlo, is a veteran journalist, covering travel, culture and entertainment, originally in Chicago, currently based in Southern California. She served as an opera docent for nearly 20 years with the late Opera Pacific, Santa Ana, CA.

THE CASTLE ESTATE
Joanne DiBernardo
The Castle Estate
35250 Loma Ventoso Lane
Temecula, California 92592
(951) 699-3940
joanne@thecastlebandb.com
www.thecastlebandb.com

DELYTE’S FINE FOODS
Leah D. Di Bernardo
Exec. Chef – The Castle Estate…   southern california wine country
Local, Organic & Seasonal Foods Catered
(323) 376-1799 C.
(951) 694-3663 (food) O.
www.delytes.com

PR and Media Relations
Regina Marston (regina@ideationunlimited.com)

Title: 1st Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl
Location: Santa Monica, CA
Link out: Click here
Description: The First Annual SANTA Monica Pub Crawl will take place on Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 5PM in Santa Monica, CA at the city’s best bars and restaurants to help raise money and food for those in need for the holidays, through a partnership with the Westside Food Bank. Participating locations will be offering drink and food specials as part of the SANTA Monica Pub Crawl festivities. Crawlers are asked to bring non-perishable food donations to drop at Westside Food Bank collection barrels strategically placed along the pub crawl route, which will allow them access to the drink specials at each location. For a list of bars, pub crawl maps and updates, visit the official Web site at www.santamonicapubcrawl.com.

SANTA Monica Pub Crawl participants are asked to dress in Santa/Holiday attire so the streets of Santa Monica will be filled with merry cheer as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Elves, Reindeer, Carolers and Santa\’s Helpers. The Pub Crawl will include bars on Wilshire, 4th St. and Broadway to Santa Monica Blvd and Ocean Ave as well as bars in and around the Main Street and 3rd Street Districts.

COST: Minimum donation of one non-perishable food item per person. The donation will
provide participants with a wristband that offers discount food & drink specials at all of the participating locations. A list of donation drop off locations along with a map of participating bars will be announced on the official Web site at www.santamonicapubcrawl.com.

SPONSORS: Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce, Westside Food Bank, Santa Monica
Daily Press, YELP.com, JACK FM, Local Buy Santa Monica, SPIN Public Relations

Start Time: 5:00PM
Date: 2009-12-19

Rock ‘n Roll Wine will host their next event on Friday, Nov. 6, 2009 at the House of Blues VIP club, Foundation Room and feature performances by Porter Lori and Peter Goetz. The Vegas-famed wine party will feature 15 plus hand-selected, mouth-watering wines from around the world, including brands such as Kim Crawford, George DuBoeuf, Geyser Peak, and Barnard Griffin, as well as Rock ‘n Roll Wine’s own award-winning blends: “Reggae Rhapsody,” and “The Grotto”. Rock ‘n Roll Wine invites LA to “Rock Out With Your Cork Out®” on Friday, Nov. 6 at the Foundation Room!

Doors open at 7:00 p.m.  The festivities will conclude at 10:00 p.m. though patrons will be able to remain in Foundation Room for the remainder of the night. Tickets for this event are $35 in advance and $40 at the door.  Ticket price includes all live entertainment, wine tasting, and light hors d’oeuvres. To purchase your tickets in advance, visit www.rocknrollwine.com or call 702-240-3066.  Must be 21 years of age or older to attend.

“We’re excited to continue to bring our signature, high-energy wine tasting concept to Los Angeles exposing new fans to delicious wines and cutting edge live entertainment all in one affordable package,” says Founder Chris Hammond.

Co-founder Sonny Barton agreed, “We pride ourselves on the wine experience and combining our concept with the eclectic setting of the Foundation Room makes for a truly memorable evening.”

Rock ‘n Roll Wine believes the wine experience is just as important as the quality of the wine.  Combining the right atmosphere, with the right music, and the right people is when “the juice” truly shines.  As the company grows, so does the quality of events bringing the best live music and most delicious wine to one place at one time. For more information, go to www.rocknrollwine.com.

Featuring All-Female Performances by Mandi Perkins, Sara Haze, Elizabeth Nicole, Samantha Stollenwerck, Katie Cole, Emily Jaye, Gabrielle Brisson and a Special Guest Appearance by Caitlin Crosby

Koffeehouse Music Productions presents another stellar line up of talent at Koffeehouse Sessions, the popular musician’s showcase at Harvelle’s in Santa Monica, taking place on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009.  This month’s showcase, LOVE YOUR FLAWZ, will feature some of LA’s most talented female artists, including the amazing Mandi Perkins, Sara Haze, Elizabeth Nicole, Samantha Stollenwerck, Katie Cole, Emily Jaye, Gabrielle Brisson and a special guest appearance by Caitlin Crosby. The evening is dedicated to supporting Caitlin’s LOVE YOUR FLAWZ movement dedicated to empowering young women everywhere. For more info go to www.loveyourflawz.com. Doors open at 6:30PM with Open Min until 8PM. Cover charge is $10.00 or just $5.00 if you bring with you a handwritten note embracing your flawz (Visit www.loveyourflawz.com for ideas).
For more info on the artists performing, see their individual bios below.

“I am thrilled to be collaborating with Koffeehouse on their music series and to perform with such a wonderful group of women, says Caitlin.  “It’s great that so many people are interested in spreading the word about my website LoveYourFlawz.com.  I hope that fans will embrace the message behind it, to celebrate who you are and not let stereotypes dictate otherwise-this message also inspired my album FLAWZ,” she concludes.

Who: Koffeehouse, SPIN PR & Harvelle’s

What: Koffeehouse Sessions is a monthly musicians showcase featuring the best in emerging singer/songwriters and bands and is quickly becoming a staple Los Angeles industry showcase for discovering new talent. LOVE YOUR FLAWZ Music Night will feature LA’s most talented female artists including Mandi Perkins, Sara Haze, Elizabeth Nicole, Samantha Stollenwerck, Katie Cole, Emily Jaye, Gabrielle Brisson and a special guest appearance by Caitlin Crosby. The evening is dedicated to supporting Caitlin’s LOVE YOUR FLAWZ (loveyourflawz.com) movement dedicated to empowering young women everywhere.

When: Thursday, November 5, 2009 (and continuing the first Thursday of every month)
Doors @ 6:30PM, Open mic from 6:30-8:00PM. 21+

Where:  Harvelle’s in Santa Monica -  1432 4^th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Admission: $10.00 or $5.00 if you bring a handwritten note embracing your flawz! (Visit www.loveyourflawz.com for ideas!).  To reserve a table, call (310) 395-1676.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

7:45PM: GABRIELLE BRISSON (www.gabriellesongs.com)

Adventure has always been a way of life for this Danish/American soulful singer/songwriter. Growing up with a suitcase in hand, traveling and living in different countries across Europe and the US, change was a major influence. At seventeen, desire to take her musical career to another level brought her to Los Angeles. Gabrielle immersed herself in a whirlwind of music life, teaming up with renowned musicians who helped her become a mature, well rounded musician, songwriter and performer. Gabrielle’s style has been compared to artists including Norah Jones, Amos Lee, Bonnie Raitt and Joni Mitchell. Being a powerful vocalist and versatile singer, Gabrielle soon became sought after for demo sessions, corporate events, radio jingles and vocal harmonies. Singing about the constant evolution of emotion, Gabrielle digs deep for honesty and hopes her listeners will be taken on a great journey with her!

8:05PM: KATIE COLE (www.myspace.com/katiecoleofficial)
“Most artists will tell you if they only touch one person in the crowd with their music, then their job is done. For me, I want to reach everyone!”  Meet Katie Cole. She is a young singer-songwriter originally from Australia now living in Los Angeles. With uplifting and clever pop songs, Katie is currently working with Producer Howard Willing (Smashing Pumpkins, Liz Phair, Ok Go) on her debut record.

8:25PM: SAMANTHA STOLLENWERCK  (www.samanthamusic.com)
‘Cali-soul’ is the term Samantha uses to describe her sound; a unique blend of soulful pop rock that has landed her on bills with the likes of Dave Matthews Band and Ziggy Marley.  She recently finished a record with Sheryl Crow’s producer Jeff Trott and collaborated with songwriter Danielle Brisebois who was a co-writer on Natasha Bedingfield’s hit singles, “Unwritten” and “Pocket Full of Sunshine”. Samantha rounded out the record by bringing aboard GRAMMY award winning mixer, Manny Marroquin (Alicia Keyes, Usher, Kanye West) to bump up the grooves.  Samantha is looking forward to playing her new songs live this summer as well as for her 2009 release of her new record and single, “Carefree”.

8:50PM: SARA HAZE  (www.sarahaze.com) Releasing her first major album, My Personal Sky, at the age of 19 has been a long time coming for songstress Sara Haze, writing fan favorites like “Lovely” and “My Own Hands To Hold” years earlier.  Wise beyond her age, this sun-bleached Southern California girl writes about growing up in the modern teenage world in a way that connects.  “When one of my songs touches someone it means the world to me,” exclaims Sara who’s had over 30 songs placed in films and television shows.  Fans of MTV’s reality phenomenon The Hills responded en masse with over 300,000 hits on Sara’s MySpace page when two of her songs were used on the popular show.  The fans kept coming when more of Sara’s songs were used on America’s Next Top Model and The Style Network’s Ruby.  Performing at major festivals worldwide including South By Southwest, CMJ Music Marathon and Film Festival, Canadian Music Week and Europe’s Popkomm, Sara caught the attention of industry icons including Randy Jackson, Gene Simmons and digital music guru Ted Cohen.  But it’s Sara herself running the show and, most notably, Sara is writing the music- giving the album a personal touch that makes the listener wonder if Sara hasn’t written the songs just for them.

9:25PM: CAITLIN CROSBY (www.myspace.com/caitlincrosby) Having been born and raised in Los Angeles, the 24 year old Caitlin Crosby is practically a veteran in the city’s immense music and acting community. But it’s her honest songwriting on a life spent in and around the gritty neighborhoods surrounding Hollywood that separates her from other artists who call Los Angeles home.  After graduating from the program, Caitlin set out to pursue her passion for music — supporting herself with acting gigs including appearances on television shows such as Malcolm In The Middle and That 70s Show and earning a role in Danny DeVito’s upcoming feature, Housebroken. In between auditions and bearing witness to the hard lives of LA’s down and out, Caitlin wrote songs about a life in between the two worlds — finding her voice in intelligent songs with a positive point of view on human nature, relationships and self-acceptance. Giving life to her powerful lyrics, Caitlin’s magnetic voice has the ability to be both raw and delicate. Her charming live performances has won her fans throughout the city’s varied live music venues from grimy rock halls to the popular Hotel Café.
Most recently, Caitlin joined indie music favorite, William Fitzsimmons, on two songs featured on his new album, The Sparrow & The Crow. She has also written and recorded with Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Robin Thicke, Plain White T’s, and Brian Wilson. She has also been a featured songwriter in Levi’s jeans ad campaign. Caitlin is now in the studio recording her debut album that will be released on Blackledge Music in early 2009.
9:45PM: ELIZABETH NICOLE (www.elizabethnicole.com)
At 22, Elizabeth Nicole is quickly rising to the top as a young pop artist in the Los Angeles music scene. A singer and pianist since age 8, and a songwriter since age 15, Elizabeth’s lyrics show wisdom and humor beyond her years. The juxtaposition of her smoky voice with her tongue-in-cheek attitude will put a smile on your face. “My logo of the heart with devil horns says it all,” Elizabeth says. A former ballerina and current actress, Elizabeth has performed professionally since the age of 7 (The Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, WB’s 7th Heaven, ABC-TV’s Port Charles), but she decided early on that her passion for music could in no way be suppressed. Elizabeth is blessed to have world-wide successful songwriters take her under their wings such as Shelly Peiken, Jon Ingoldsby, John Shanks, The Matrix, Kay Hanley of Letters to Cleo, and Danny Wilde of The Rembrandts. Currently, Elizabeth is in the studio writing new songs with the crafting of uber-engineer/producer Howard Willing (Smashing Pumpkins, Liz Phair, Fiona Apple, Ok Go!). Along with her lead roles in the indie films “Getting That Girl” and “Cornered” due out in 2010, Elizabeth can currently be seen playing live in Los Angeles at clubs such as Green Door, Molly Malone’s, Hotel Café and Genghis Cohen.

10:30PM: MANDI PERKINS (www.myspace.com/mandiperkins) The girl next door, only louder … Mandi Perkins is an intensely passionate and charismatic singer and songwriter who creates uncompromising melodic rock. Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, Mandi began writing and performing at a young age. Her ambitions inspired a move to California to pursue both a career in music and to attend UC Berkeley where she graduated with Honors in English Literature. Immediately following graduation, Mandi made a move to Los Angeles in order to pursue a career in music while simultaneously attending law school. MSN Music recently featured her as their “One To Watch” artist, Yahoo Music named her one of their “Who’s Next” artists and she was featured on the cover of November‘s Music Connection Magazine.  Mandi recently finished her six-week headlining national tour this past August where she debuted material from her new band project, Of Verona. BMI recently stated that “Mandi Perkins is undoubtedly one of the freshest, most prolific songwriters to hit the U.S. from our North American neighbor, ” while Ryan Tedder of the group OneRepublic, stated that  “Mandi Perkins is the new frontier when it comes to females that rock; she’s unfiltered, unedited, and is a “true” artist – Her lyrics are 100% her life and I’m excited for the rest of the world to hear what I know will be one of the best new rock acts in years.”

11:30PM: EMILY JAYE (www.myspace.com/emilyjayemusic)

With a bass guitar in hand, singer-songwriter Emily Jaye takes a unique lead position fronting a powerful four piece band.  Influenced by Paramore, The Killers, Garbage and Sheryl Crow, Emily’s sound is distinct vocally and lyrically – expressing her belief that “confidence is the sexiest thing you can wear.”   Within four months of picking up the guitar she started playing at open mic nights and coffeehouses around Los Angeles, singing her own material.   Emily landed an ad campaign in 2008 with Fruit of the Loom’s subsidiary company “Vassarette.”  Emily modeled the company’s new product line, sang the campaign’s theme song “Are You Ready” and secured a Gibson bass guitar endorsement.   Her ads can be seen in entertainment publications and women’s magazines nationwide, throughout 2009.  She also did a live performance of the song on The Style Network’s new reality show, Running In Heels. Emily is also currently working in the studio on a solo CD with producer/guitarist Eric Fraley set for a late summer, early fall release.

ABOUT KOFFEEHOUSE
Koffeehouse Music Productions, LLC is Los Angeles’ premier, grassroots live music production company, best known for creating unique outdoor performance spaces for the most talented emerging singer-songwriters and bands. Koffeehouse takes pride in giving these artists a platform to share their extraordinary ability with music industry executives and music lovers alike. Koffeehouse won the 2006 Community Service Award from the LA Music Awards, and in beginning of 2008 became an official partner of the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, in connection of the Ford Amphitheatre 2008 and 2009 Seasons. www.koffeehouse.com

ABOUT HARVELLE’S:
Harvelle’s is the Westside’s oldest live music venue (1931) and is legendary for its blues and jazz. This dark, sexy room is the perfect spot for listening dancing and drinking to the best local, national and international artists. www.Harvelles.com.

Cure in the Canyons

Cure In The Canyons III, the luxury-fest for Breast Cancer research, returns on Sunday, October 4th from 11am-4pm at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village to raise funds for innovative medical and clinical Breast Cancer research. Set between sequoia trees and cascading waterfalls Sunday afternoon at the Four Seasons will be filled with the best of lifestyle, beauty, wellness, epicurean and fashion and top exclusive high-end luxury trendsetters, all donating their time and products to fund breast cancer research.

For today’s economy the price of $60 ticket may seem steep, but not so when it includes a gift bag valued at over $500 upon departure. The first 250 guests to arrive by carpool will also receive a special gift.  Personally speaking, I loooove goodie bags!  No matter what’s inside, I look forward to unwrapping, unveiling, untying, undressing…. Yes!  Goodie bags rule, and this event looks worth the trip out to Westlake Village.

Cure in the Canyons honors breast cancer survivors and those undergoing treatment with a very special celebrity hosted Tea Party sponsored by Revolution Tea.  What better way to feel better?  How about the experience of over $1,000 worth of extraordinary free treatments, samples and gourmet delights, strolling through 28 cabanas on six breathtaking acres?  There are luxurious free products to enjoy including, spa and beauty treatments with Four Seasons Thai massage, skyn ICELAND, Calidora Skin Clinic, California Health & Longevity Institute acupuncture, OPI manicures, Napoleon Perdis and Jane Iredale fall makeovers, with a special guest appearance by Billy and Melissa Yamaguchi of Yamaguchi Spa and Salon who will conduct Feng Shui beauty seminars while his dedicated style experts take fall glamour to the next divine level.

And for that special gentleman in your life, The Club Car, a luxurious Men’s Ultra Lounge offers mini-spa treatments, SINGHA Premium Beer, extra spicy salsa and hors d’oeuvres, Harley Davidson and a luxury skin care line just for our gentlemen guests while they peruse three new 2010 Lexus Luxury Hybrids or take one out for a quick spin.

Five-star gourmet delights from New Zealand Natural Ice Cream, Hamptons, Onyx, Atmospheric Events, and Four Seasons Executive Chef Mario Alcocer add to the day’s epicurean experience with wine and spirit tastings provided by Korbel and ONEHOPE Wine.

As if all this was not enough, guests also enjoy an over-the-top 100+ item silent auction featuring fighter-pilot training, Caribbean yacht charters for seven of your closest friends, sports memorabilia and fabulous jewels.  Competing for your attention is an extraordinary dance performance by the New York City quartet as live Jazz and Rumba Flamenco trios entertain guests throughout the day.  Attendees are asked to arrive early to take advantage of as many product demonstrations and services as possible.

Event Celebrity Co-Chairs are actress/TV personalities, Shannon Tweed, and daughter Sophie Tweed Simmons (stars of A&E’s Gene Simmons Family Jewels). Celebrity Co-hosts for “Cure in the Canyons” Thomas Calabro (Melrose Place), Jack Wagner (The Bold and The Beautiful), Tichina Arnold (Everybody Hates Chris), Mark DeCarlo (Taste of America with Mark DeCarlo), Ivan Sergei (The Break-Up) actresses Lorraine Toussaint (co-star of TNT’s Saving Grace), CCH Pounder (Warehouse 13), Catherine Dent (The Shield), Aaron D. Spears (The Bold and The Beautiful), Adrienne Franz (Y&R), Ashley Jones(Bold and the Beautiful/True Blood), Brenda Song (Disney’s Suite Life of Zack and Cody), Claudia Jordan (Celebrity Apprentice), Jimmy Jean-Louis (Heroes), Lesley-Anne Down (The Bold and The Beautiful), Marcellus Wiley(ESPN), Shawn Hlookoff (Singer/Songwriter), Stacy Heidi (Y&R), Vanessa Marano (Y&R), Winsor Harman(The Bold and The Beautiful), Willie Macc (comedian/actor) and more. Many of Los Angeles’ prominent residents, as well as several personalities whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer, are expected to attend.

Actress Lorraine Toussaint explains why research is so important; “I walked through chemo with a friend of mine and saw the devastating effects it had on her. It was almost like the treatment was worse than the disease. We’ve got to do better. The time for treatment is over. It’s time for a cure.”
Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village is located at 2 Dole Drive, Westlake Village, CA 91362. Tickets are on sale now and available at www.cureinthecanyons.com. Guests attending “Cure In The Canyons” should plan on spending the entire day at the festival to enjoy all activities and complimentary services.

“Cure In The Canyons” is a prequel event to “Run 4 Her Life” 5k/ 10k www.run4herlife.com,” on Sunday, October 18 at The Americana at Brand in Glendale, CA.
For further information on “Cure in the Canyons” and “Run 4 Her Life” go to www.cureinthecanyons.com and www.run4herlife.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

research.

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

EVENT: First Annual Run 4 Her Life 5k / 10k for Breast Cancer Research

DATE/ TIME: Sunday, October 18, 2009

7:00 a.m.     On-Site Registration Opens

8:00 a.m.     Opening Ceremonies and Warm-Up

8:15 a.m.     Lili Haydn           www.myspace.com/lilihaydn

8:30 a.m.     5k

9:00 a.m.     10k

10:00 a.m.   The Quiet            www.myspace.com/thequiet

11:10 a.m.   Margie Hauser     www.margiehauser.com

11:20 a.m.   Jordan Johnson    www.myspace.com/jordanjohnson

11:30 a.m.   Mýa                    www.myamya.com

WHAT:

5k / 10k Run and 5k Family Fun Run / Walk benefitting Breast Cancer  Research  featuring live musical performance by GRAMMY award winning recording artist and “Dancing With The Stars” contestant, Mýa.

LOCATION:

The Americana at Brand

889 Americana Way  Glendale, CA 91204   818.637.8982

(Bounded by Central Avenue, Colorado Street and Brand Blvd.)

FEE:

$35 in advance; $45 day of

Title: ORO CD Release Party PALENKE SOULTRIBE
Location: The Conga Room – 800 W. Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Link out: Click here
Description: Palenke Soultribe was created in Los Angeles in 2005 by Colombian producers Juan D. Borda ( AKA Insectosound) and Andres Erazo ( AKA Popa) and later joined by drummer/percussionist A.Zuluaga. Under WC-Music Records and up to 2008, they have released a vinyl named \”Folkloric Deconstruktion\” (2005); followed by their first album called \”Tropic an Heaven\” (2007 )( album that was awarded with the Independent Music Awards 2008 in the Dance/Electronica category; and a compilation of remixes entitled \”Tropico y Cielo\”. Their upcoming album release, ORO, shows a development in the sound of the project and features known international artists like Miami\’s Locos por Juana ( Grammy nominee 2009), Sr. Mendez ( Grammy Winner 2007), Cesar Pliego ( bass player from KINKY), Elastic Bond , Toddy Walters and many more. Official released date scheduled March 2009. Palenke Soultribe deconstruct atmospheric and warm Colombian sonic textures that ride over underground beats and exploratory synthesizer sounds. The foundation of PST\’s work is the colorful sound of Colombia\’s traditional music mixed together with electronic beats.
Start Time: 9pm
Date: 2009-07-30

July 10th marks the unveiling of Vegas-famed wine, Rock ‘n Roll Wine party at the House of Blues in the Sunset Strip.  Featuring amazing varietals  from around the world, including the company’s own award-winning wines, this evening of live music and wine tasting proclaimed its residency upstairs at the House of Blues’ exclusive Foundation Room.

Following on the footsteps of their Vegas success, RNR Wines wooes Los Angeles with live music pairings to the featured wines. Artist Jeremy Cornwell delighted audiences with his music, while guests swayed from table to table perusing the different selections from the featured vineyards. Tunes ranged from Californication to Sweet Child of Mine. Willamette Valley’s Lavelle Riesling 2006, a fantastic semi-sweet Kabinett style Riesling with aromas and flavors hinting of peaches and apricots, was sweetly paired with Tyler Hilton’s Kiss On.  Also a favorite, the French import,  a 2005 Maison Galhaud Grenache Noir with deep ruby color reminiscent of its black fruits, pepper and spice, created a buzz by smoothly pairing up with Black Eyed Pea’s I Gotta Feeling.

This fabulous event takes place only once a month. Tickets are $35-$40, and well worth it.  This splendid event of delicious wines and appetizers by the House of Blues makes a great night for a date.. or two.  See you by the reds!

www.rocknrollwine.com

702-240-3066