In addition to being a novelist, Kristin is also a regular contributor for People Magazine and reporter for the Daily Buzz and has a number of celebrity friends (many of whom have already confirmed attendance to the party).  Kristin is only 28 years old and The Art of French Kissing and When You Wish are her third and fourth novels.  She’s also known for How to Sleep with a Movie Star and The Blonde Theory (as well as her knack for catchy titles).  The two new novels will be for sale and Kristin will be signing them at the event.

March 25 at Geisha House (6633 Hollywood Blvd., 323.460.6300)

7-9 p.m.

Presented by MediaBistro.com

Link to invite:  http://www.ersvp.com/reply/allmediala

Celeb guests have been confirmed

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Held on March 20th from 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., guests will sip cocktails and shop for fabulous vintage couture and designer clothing, jewelry and accessories for an amazing cause. Everyone will receive a complimentary goodie bag filled with Breakfast at Tiffany’s themed products!

There is no cost to attend the event, but a suggested $10 donation will be appreciated.  Opportunity drawing tickets will also be sold for the chance to win high end prizes.  All proceeds from the event will go directly to Children’s Institute.  The Colleagues Boutique is located at 3312 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, and there is free parking behind the Boutique.

JLLA is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. www.jlla.org

For more information about Children’s Institute Inc., please visit their website at www.childrensinstitute.org.

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Francia went on to film more commercials, take on more print jobs, and starred in the Nickelodeon film "Shredderman Rules". This past summer she starred in a lead role in "Underground," directed and written by Tinieblas González.

Now, with Francia’s lead female role of MGM’s, "The Cutting Edge 3: Chasing the Dream" alongside actor Matt Lanter (Heroes, Grey’s Anatomy). This third installment of the "Cutting Edge" trilogy revolves around ice skating’s most eligible bachelor Zack Conroy (Lanter), who loses his ice skating partner and girlfriend when she breaks her leg in an accident. In comes Francia’s character, her replacement, Alejandra "Alex" Delgado -a tough yet beautiful hockey player that gets him racing in his heart and in the rink.

Francia Raisa kindly took the time out of her day to chat with LA’s the Place about "The Cutting Edge 3: Chasing the Dream" DVD dropping on April 1, 2008.

LATP: What is the movie about?  Is it similar to the first two movies?

Francia Raisa: The movie is about a figure skater named Zach who injures his partner during a rehearsal, and has to find a new one in order to compete.  That is where I come in!  The character I play, Alex, is a hockey player who impresses Zach with her beauty and skating abilities.  Alex and Zach partner up, and the sparks fly.  I don’t want to give too much of the plot away, you have to watch the movie!  It is similar to the first two films because there are the love story and action elements, but the characters are very different.  It is the first time they have a guy as the initial figure skater, and a girl as the hockey player. 

LATP: What did you enjoy best about working on this film?

FR: I loved the energy and the passion that everyone had while making this film.  We all had great chemistry, and we all got along really well.  It translated to the big screen amazingly, and it helped us bring the characters to life.  I really enjoyed getting back into figure skating and learning all the stunts.  I used to skate about nine years ago, and when I was doing this film I was able to advance my skating abilities, get into shape, and I got free ice skating lessons!  

LATP: What was it like working with Matt Lanter?

FR: We had so much fun.  We actually got to hang out for about a month before we started filming, and we became really good friends.  It helped when it came time to start filming because we were already comfortable with each other. 

LATP: So we hear you have ice skating experience, did you do many of your own stunts?

FR: I do have skating experience; I took lessons when I was younger.  My mother owns a restaurant across the street from an ice skating rink, and I used to skate there all the time.  I actually started skating again months before I had even gotten the script for the movie. I had always wanted to pick up skating again, so I started taking private lessons once a week just for fun.  Then, I was cast in a film that was being shot in Spain, and I was gone for about six weeks.  When I got back from shooting I heard about "The Cutting Edge" movie.  It was such a small world!  When I landed this role, it felt a lot easier for me in rehearsals to learn everything, including new stunts.  We did do a lot of our own skating in the film, but we definitely had stunt doubles for the big stunts.  We could do them in our shoes, but not on skates.  I was scared to even attempt it!  We did do one stunt that ended up being in the film called "Jesus Christ" and I am really proud of that!

LATP: What is up next for you in 2008?

FR: I have so much going on this year!  ABC Family is becoming my new home.  I have an up and coming TV series project with them that starts filming in April - it is going to take up a lot of my time this year and I am so excited to start it!  I have to go back to Spain sometime this year as well to finish up the film "Underground" that I started shooting last year. It’s going to be great.

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At the Festival of Children Foundation’s Festival of Children™ benefit event last week, over $6000 was raised for the foundation. This non-profit’s mission is to offer support services and direct grants to over 120 children’s charities and youth organizations. And this event contributed to helping it continue to achieve that goal.

The benefit was held at the new location of the Savannah Supper Club and Lounge, a sultry-yet-swinging joint. About 125 guests attended the private event, which doubled as the grand opening of the Savannah Club’s new location in Costa Mesa. The event was hosted by the ever-genial David Wilhelm and Culinary Adventures, which meant the night brought guests delicious area wines and sparkling wines, sustainably grown hors d’oeuvres like lobster salad sliders and blue cheese-topped mini-burgers as well as spicy shrimp poppers and tuna lettuce wraps, and impeccable service from a well-heeled waitstaff.

Wilhelm has said he doesn’t want a dining experience to be “too formal and stuffy,” and his newest Savannah fits that bill.

Savannah’s Beginnings

The original Savannah opened in Laguna Niguel in Orange County a decade ago and has become a favorite among locals. Culinary Adventures was founded in 1996 when Wilhelm partnered with businessman John Martin with a goal to bring creative cuisine and superb service.

His goal was also to open a live music and dinner house. Savannah is that iteration. It’s located just a block from the Orange County Performing Arts Center, which has also been a key sponsor of the Festival of Children Foundation. It’s also within walking distance of the expansive South Coast Plaza shopping area and top hotels. And Culinary Adventures was also pleased to be a part of this event, because of Festival of Children’s involvement not only with children’s charities, but also with the arts.

Attendees were SoCal celebutantes like music producer Jamie Rise and actor Stu Stone. The dress de rigueur was cocktail-meets-cabaret attire for the ladies, which was curve-hugging dresses and bustier tops, while men wore the more standard button-downs and jackets. The retro-cool Martini Kings band, which has played for clients ranging from the Academy Awards and First Lady Laura Bush, provided an excellent backdrop to the mingling crowd – but they could have easily taken center stage to entertain as well. The end of the event brought a more twenty-something crowd, DJ beats and lots of dancing, proving that this venue’s versatility is part of its appeal.

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The legendary hotel seemed the perfect place to house the star-studded black tie gala. Not 100 but up to 200 stars were got together to see and be seen on the red carpet and for the world. Not Your Daughter’s Jeans® (NYDJ), creator of Tummy Tuck™ Jeans, co-sponsored the event along with The Hollywood Reporter, a mainstay in the entertainment industry, and Bacchus Energy Drink.
 www.beverlyhillshotel.com

When they arrived, the invited glided through the bombardment of flashing light bulbs and posed for photos taken while walking down the red carpet. Some gave a quick nod and hello to the press while others basked in the flurry of attention and graciously answered questions from reporters on whom they would have placed their bets on in Oscar pools. 

Preceded by a cocktail reception, the Oscar telecast was then streamed simultaneously with the party, showing the awards as they were given out at the Kodak theatre.

The luxurious Crystal Room was the site of the now traditional affair where guests were treated to a formal sit down dinner as they joined in on the celebration of the 80th Annual Academy Awards.

Stars in attendance were, needles to say, numerous, but just to name drop a few, on hand were: Sally Kellerman (M*A*S*H), Andrew “Dice” Clay, Jeff Conaway and Daniel Baldwin fresh from “Celebrity Re-Hab”, David Carradine, Cindy Margolis, once the most downloaded woman on the internet, Robert Loggia, Vincent Spano, Omorosa of reality TV infamy, Corey Feldman promoting his new film “The Lost Boys II”, Martin Landau, Tony Shaloub from the hit show “Monk”, Joan Van Ark, and Sheila Kelly, actress and creator of The S Factor pole dancing classes with her “West Wing” husband, actor Richard Schiff.

Past Oscar winners and nominees in attendance at the formal sit-down dinner were offered a complimentary pair of Tummy Tuck™ Jeans. “We are so thrilled to join in the celebration of the 80th Annual Academy Awards.  Tummy Tuck™ Jeans are designed to keep our leading ladies timeless and we are happy to share our fashion forward denim line with them.” stated co-founder Lisa Rudes-Sandel.

Tummy Tuck™ Jeans gave the gift of looking and feeling younger to some of Hollywood’s notable famed ladies including Lauren Holly, Traci Bingham, Mimi Rogers, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Miss Venezuela finalist Jessika Grau, Gloria Allred, Charlene Tilton, Diane Ladd, Elke Summer and many others.  www.tummytuckjeans.com

Bacchus Energy Drink, named after the Roman god of revelry, has been produced in Korea since 1963. One of the oldest import brands to make its way to the US, it’s now new and improved and on it’s way to making a scene and becoming one of the most popular herbal energy drinks in the world.

The VIP suite made sure the pampering didn’t fall short with a lounge spread out from corner to corner. Just to name a few, the array of offerings included free DVD releases of the big nights Best Picture winner, “No Country For Old Men”, Martinells Gold Metal Sparkling Apple Pomegranate Cider to toast with, Hadaka Sushi, sexy panties by Pampered Passions Fine Lingerie, and Liptrix Lip Plumping Lip Gloss.

Thanks to Edward Lozzi public relations and Norby Walters for organizing the fete which always proves to be a great night of stargazing, and a viewing party unlike most in the world.

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Advance  Tix only!  You will only pay the $3.50 service fee!
Go to:  www.plays411.com

Select the show:  Use Promo Code: "LAsThePlace" Unless otherwise instructed!
Only available for the shows listed below - Codes  will not work on other shows!  Seats are limited!
——————————————–
THE CREDEAUX CANVAS
March 13th & 14th, 2008
Regular price: $18.00  -  (Your Price FREE, except small service fee)

Mar. 13th – Thurs. - 8PM – 6 - tickets
Mar. 14th - Friday - 8PM – 6 - tickets

Stages Theatre Center
1540 N. McCadden Place
Hollywood, CA  90028
——————————————–
INVASION OF THE MINNESOTA NORMALS
March 13th, 2008
Regular price: $25.00  -  (Your Price FREE, except small service fee)

March 13th – Thurs. - 8PM – 6 - tickets
March 14th - Friday - 8PM – 6 - tickets

THE LOUNGE THEATRE
6201 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA  90038
——————————————–
CLOSER
March 13th, 14th, & 15th, 2008
Regular price: $10.00  -  (Your Price FREE, except small service fee)

March 13th – Thurs. - 8PM – 6 - tickets
March 14th - Friday - 8PM – 6 - tickets
March 15th - Saturday 8PM – 6 – tickets

El Centro Theatre Chaplin Stage
804 N. El Centro
Los Angeles, CA  90038
——————————————–

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Suddenly, you feel a sudden jolt; you hear a tremendous screech followed the sound of metal and glass crashing; you feel fear and pain run through your body. It takes a few seconds to realize you’re in an automobile accident.

In a situation like this, literally every second matters. So what do you do? You need to escape but how? The seatbelt is pinning you to the debilitated seat; the doors are crushed in, refusing escape; and there is oncoming traffic blissfully unaware of the situation up ahead.

Unfortunately, traffic accidents are extremely common and can happen to anyone. While you cannot always control whether or not an accident will occur, you CAN prepare for the worst and minimize harm done to you and others in your vehicle.

Thankfully, the brains behind SafetyBright, a brand all about traffic safety has come up with an amazing new vehicle safety product: The 4-in-1 SafetyStick.

The 4-in-1 SafetyStick is a practical tool designed to aid in the safety of vehicle drivers. It allows an individual to signal for aid, as well as escape a vehicle after an accident.

The SafetyStick features:

• A multi-purpose flashlight with a powerful beam
• Flashing red LED strobes to signal oncoming traffic
• A sharp and efficient seatbelt cutter, designed to cut seatbelts in seconds while preventing harm to the user
• A steel-pointed tip, which will shatter any widow with a tap for an emergency escape

You don’t want to be trapped inside your car, or stranded on a dark road without oncoming cars knowing you’re there. A SafetyStick might save a life.

The SafetyStick also comes with a magnetic bottom, enabling users to fasten it to the side of a vehicle. This amazing new 4-in-1 SafetyStick costs just $14.95 and is available at www.safetybright.com

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They are presenting two Sake Nights, one on March 20th and one on April 17th, both Thursday nights. It will be really fun celebrations of sake and its growing popularity. 

Diners will have a chance to sample more than 20 different sakes while learning from one of LA’s top sake sommeliers, Yuji Matsumoto, about the various nuances and flavors of sake and how to pair different varieties with different menu items. $35 gets diners a night of UNLIMITED sake tastings and great food from Tokyo Table.

Enjoy Unlimited Sake from 20 Varieties & Contemporary Japanese Cuisine
$35
(includes all food and drink)

Beverly Hills, two seatings each night
March 20, 6-8 pm & 9-11 pm
April 17, 6-8 pm & 9-11 pm

Call Now To Reserve Your Spot
Beverly Hills (310-657-9500/50 N. La Cienega Blvd)
www.TokyoTable.com

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Guests will snack on the delicious candy buffet, sip on sweet martinis, and enjoy the allure of getting gorgeous.  Guests also winning these tickets will enjoy goodie bags filled with all the items that every woman must have this beauty season! 

To register, click here and don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter at www.prettycity.com!

Read more about the event here…

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Skincare, Make-up and Spa vendors will be onhand to make sure that every guest leaving will be spring ready. The guests who are lucky enough to attend this beauty bash will enjoy delectable candy treats and infused martinis while dancing the night away. As a special treat during the event, exclusive beauty products will be passed out to guests, PrettyCity hors d’oeuvres style!  

The fun continues after the party ends as every guest will be leaving with one of the fabulous gift bags put together especially for the ladies of LA.

Who:      Guests must be 21+ with valid ID
What:     PrettyCity.com Beauty Sample Sale
Where:   The Ebell Operating Company
                4400 Wilshire Blvd.
                Los Angeles, CA 90005
When:    March 19, 2008 5-9pm

The first 50 people RSVPing will win free tickets, read more in LA Happenings here!

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Each organic meal plan is tailored to fit the lifestyle of each client. Optimal Nutrition Inc. designs and portions each meal specifically to the client’s needs based on their Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), body fat, activity level, caloric intake and other factors. The Optimal Nutrition Inc. program drives your body to function and perform at a higher standard than any other competing meal plan. When clients put optimal nutrition in, they get optimal performance out.

LA’s the Place: What made you want pursue an Organic Meal Delivery Program?

Michelle Weinstein: I was always into fitness and working out. I found the hardest part was eating right. About 70% of what you look like, feel like, etc. is the food, or fuel, that your body consumes.  ONI is in the fuel business. I find it very important have proper fuel to work at your peak levels physically and mentally.

LATP: How long has Optimal Nutrition been in business?

MW: 1- 1/2 years. ONI opened its doors 2006 in San Diego. We are a national company that ships around the US.

LATP: How does Optimal Nutrition Inc. differ from all other diet plans?

MW: ONI is unique in many ways. First, every ingredient is organic and sourced fresh from the finest natural farms. Second, each meal is customized and portioned per each individuals caloric requirement and health goals. Third, ONI offers weekly delivery to both local and national clients.

LATP: What are some of the benefits of using Optimal Nutrition Inc.?

MW: The convenience of receiving meals on a weekly basis, allows for ONI’s clients to enjoy more time spent with family and friends and less time at the grocery store, cooking and/or cleaning. Most importantly, ONI’s clients consistently consume "clean" meals composed of whole organic ingredients that have been personalized just for them. As a result, their clients experience increased energy levels and better overall health.

LATP: What are some of the more popular dishes?

MW: Some of our most popular dishes are our healthy tasty pizzas. Our amazing turkey enchiladas and our ever popular Turkey burger recipes.

LATP: How exactly are meals tailored to the needs of the consumers?

MW: To determine how many calories each client needs to consume on a daily basis, ONI gathers a few important facts: gender, age, height, weight, activity level and weight goal, to name a few. The total daily calories are then divided into 5 to 6 well-balanced meals per day, which allows for sustained energy levels throughout the day. ONI also offers a selection of Gluten Free and Vegetarian Meals for those on restricted diets. In addition, we can further get in detail with an appointment with one of our Registered Dieticians on staff. We can do consultations in person or via phone.

LATP: Why do you think organic foods have become so popular?

MW: A greater number of people are beginning to place more importance on what they eat. Since organic foods are pesticide free, more nutritious and better tasting they can be considered the perfect "fuel" for our bodies. Certified organic foods in the United States are grown and processed free of pesticides, antibiotics, and hormones.  Organic food was meant for humans to eat, not contaminated with chemicals designed to kill bugs or stimulate animal growth.  It is true that eating non-organic fruits and vegetables is better than eating no fruits or vegetables; however, it is nearly impossibly to determine, through research, the long-term effects of pesticides in the body, so think of choosing organic foods as in investment in your future.

LATP: What type of person would be more prone to using Optimal Nutrition Inc.? 

MW: ONI’s services are valued by busy single professionals to growing families who are short on time and appreciate the quality and taste of well prepared organic meals. ONI also works with a plethora of athletes, who require and depend upon quality nutrition. They greatly value ONI’s dedication to providing the proper fuel to improve their strength, endurance, power, and overall performance.

LATP: What does a meal plan consist of?

MW: ONI’s complete meal plan consists of a super nutritious smoothie for breakfast, a calorie-specific meal for lunch, another calorie-specific meal for dinner, and either 1 or 2 meal replacement bars, the very popular 91 Bar, depending upon each client’s total daily calories as a mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack. ONI also offers many other meal plan packages that can accommodate various lifestyles.

LATP: What is the best success story you have received from a client?

MW: The best success story of a client was someone who had to lose weight in order to do a bike ride from San Francisco to San Diego. This person worked so hard cycling, lifting weights, and now eating right. Through proper exercise and diet, they were able to successfully finish the ride.

LATP: How would a client go about placing an order?

MW: Using our website at www.optimalnutritioninc.com or calling us at (858)202-0445.

LATP: Do you currently have any celebrity athletes or actors using the product?

MW: Yes. We have celebrities that range from athletes such as Marshall Faulk to playmates of the year such as Sara Underwood.

LATP: How often is your interaction with the client during the program?

MW: ONI is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service with a personal touch. As a result, ONI representatives will conduct frequent customer service follow up phone calls and emails. The staff dieticians also remain in contact with clients. We always like to hear from our clients via email and phone.

LATP: Is the packaging for Optimal Nutrition Meals environmentally friendly?

MW: Our meals containers are recyclable.

LATP: How does one go about sighing up with Optimal Nutrition Inc.?

MW: Using our website at www.optimalnutritioninc.com or calling us at (858)202-0445

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d’Oni Enterprises prides themselves on being a leader in healthier alternatives for condiments that can be used in a variety of dishes. From their award winning signature Moondance Marinade to their Heritage Line of "What’s Goin’ On" Soy-Pear Korean Teriyaki, d’Oni founder Janis M. Dalessandro is committed to creating a line of wholesome enhancements with haute-world flavors.

d’Oni Specialty Sauces:
*Moondance Marinade: An excellent enhancement for fish, meat, poultry, tofu and veggies, this enchanting marinade can also be used as a sauté sauce or dip. Voted the number one marinade of the year by Chile Pepper magazine, Moondance Marinade is a warm blend of no preservative soy sauce, cilantro, chili, garlic, green onions and uses rice vinegar instead of processed sugar to add a little sweetness to the spice.

*Happy Together Orange-Chili-Garlic Grill/Glaze/Dip: The perfect balance of sweet mandarin oranges with a kick of chili and garlic, this multi-purpose sauce infuses meats, fish and stir-fry vegetables with a taste that is truly unique and peppy. Light and refreshing, Happy Together is sure to bring smiles at the dinner table and is a delightful springtime bouquet of flavor.

*"What’s Goin’ On" Soy-Pear-Ginger Korean Teriyaki: Naturally sweetened with pear and spiced with a delectable blend of garlic, ginger and sesame, this joyful sauce is as worldly as it is original. Add something new and exciting to your Asian inspired dishes that are sure to please and excite with "What’s Goin’ On" Teriyaki, a twist on the traditional.

*Burning Desire Roasted Habanero Hot Sauce: Wake up those taste buds with this flavor first, heat second hot sauce. Busting with delicious undertones of sweetness and garlic, Burning Desire can be used in a variety of dishes and will jazz up any salsa or dip. This sensational hot sauce will keep everyone coming back for more.

*Bold as Love Honey-Habanero Mustard: Put a little more zing in your sandwich with this deli-style mustard that is rich on flavor and light on calories. A dollop on salads or as a dip can brighten up any dish, and leave you tingling with tangy goodness. This award winning condiment is a must-have for any kitchen. Turn buffalo wings into a gourmet appetizer with Bold as Love.

Founded in 1997, d’Oni Enterprises has been consistently providing innovative blends of gourmet sauces that has won numerous awards, and has been featured in several popular magazines such as Bon Appetit, Healthy Living, Fancy Food Magazine and Entrepreneur Magazine, 30th Anniversary Issue. Dubbed the "little company that could" Janis M. Dalessandro incorporated her love of cooking with her passion for healthy cuisine and created a line of unique sauces that taste as good as they are for you.

d’Oni Specialty Sauces are available at select and premium markets. You can purchase d’Oni at Bristol Farms, Fresh Brands, HEB’s, QFC and Whole Foods or visit their online website, www.d-oni.com. The website features fun, easy-to-make recipes, articles and awards for its all natural gourmet sauces.

Healthy eating has never tasted so good with d’Oni Specialty Sauces. d’Oni is the only way to spice up your life.

www.d-oni.com

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Ticket prices for students are: $100 for event passes, $5 for screenings, $25 for weekday passes, and $50 for Saturday passes.

Ticket prices for seniors are: $50 for event passes, $3 for screenings, $15 for weekday passes, and $25 for Saturday passes.

VIP Reception tickets are $250. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit to www.backlotfilmfestival.com or call 310-398-0646.

This year’s Backlot Film Festival will bestow Carl Reiner, a multi-faceted artist with credits as a writer, director, actor, and producer, with the ‘Thomas Ince Award’ for his contribution to the industry. The festival will also screen two of his featueres, “The Comic” an “All of Me,” as well as two of his favorite episodes from the T.V. series “The Dick Van Dyke Show.”

The Thomas Ince Award is named for Thomas Ince, a pioneer in early film production who greatly influenced the model of production procedures and standards used today and greatly molded the image of Hollywood movies. Past honorees of this award include journalist and producer Daniel M. Selznick (“Gone With the Wind: The Making Of A Legend”) and writer and producer Budd Schulberg (“On The Waterfront” and “A Face In The Crowd”).

This year, the festival will for the first time award student filmmakers with the ‘Arthur Freed Award’ for Best Student Film. Arthur Freed was a legendary songwriter and producer. His films “DuBarry Was A Lady,” “Cabin In the Sky,” and “Gigi” will also be screened.  The award will be presented by Stephen A. Saltzman, Arthur Freed’s grandson and president of Arthur Freed Productions.

In addition, Zev Yaroslavsky, Los Angeles County Supervisor, will receive a ‘Founder’s Award’ for his support and contributions to the arts and the film industry.

The screening schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, April 2:
12 noon
“DuBarry Was Lady” – Arthur Freed Tribute Film
Musical comedy starring Red Skelton, Lucille Ball and Gene Kelly
 
2:00pm
“Chekov and Maria” – World Premiere
The drama focuses on the Russian playwright and his sister, who are at odds over his secret marriage, as he struggles to complete his masterpiece, “The Cherry Orchard.” Based on the critically acclaimed play. Starring Ron Battitta and Gillian Brashear. Produced by John Stark, directed by Eric Till, written by Jovanka Bach

4:00pm
“Roses of April” – World Premiere
The Native American drama explores the intense bonds of a family’s relationship, slowly being undermined by the government, when a young girl decides to become an astronaut. Starring Carolina Hoyos, John DiVito, Norman Hall and Anita Poirer. Produced, written and directed by Claudia Damasceno

7:00pm
“Yesterday Was Lie” – West Coast Premiere
Secrets of the universe are revealed as a woman searches for the truth that lies within the human heart in this sci-fi film noir. Starring Kipleigh Brown, Chase Materson, John Newton and Mik Scriba. Produced by Chase Masterson, written and directed by James Kerwin

9:00pm
“InAlienable” – World Premiere
Guilt ridden over the death of his family, a man discovers his body is host to a parasite from another world that the government believes is a threat to mankind. Starring Richard Hatch, Courtney Peldon and Walter Koenig. Directed by Robert Dyke, written by Walter Koenig

Thursday, April 3:
12 noon
“12” (Act or Die)
Two illegitimate off springs of Zeus must perform a play, flawless for his amusement, in order to save themselves and their home, in this comedy. Starring Alison Elliot, Tony Griffin, Alan Lulu and Brenda Varda. Written and directed by Lawrence Bridges

2:00pm
“Castaways of ATA” – United States Premiere
The Australian documentary, that has become a famous folktale, follows the lives of five men from Tonga, who re-unite forty years later to re-tell their tale of survival on a tiny Pacific island. Produced, written and directed by Steve Bowman

3:00pm
Students Short Film Competition
“A Slice of Trouble,” “Dandelion,” Express Lane,” “Rib,” The Romanovs’ Last Photograph” and “The Winer.”

4:00pm
“La Cucina”
Promises and frustrations unfold during the dinner hour as the lives of apartment neighbors intertwine in this romantic dramedy. Starring Christina Hendrix, Joaquim de Almeida and Rachel Hunter. Directed by Allison R. Hebble and Zed Starkovich. Written by Allison Wilke

7:00pm
“Lady Magdelene’s” – Los Angeles Premiere
The suspense comedy follows a disgraced IRS agent, managing a brothel in Nevada, who uncovers a terrorist plot to destroy Hoover Dam. Introduced and starring Nichelle Nichols, Ethan Keogh and Susan Smythe. Produced, written and directed by J. Neil Schuman. Q & A to follow the screening.

9:00pm
“Cabin In The Sky” – Arthur Freed Tribute Film
One of Hollywood’s first all-black musicals marks the directing debut of Vincente Minnelli. Starring Ethel Waters, Eddie “Rochester” Anderson, Lena Horne, Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. Introduced by Nichelle Nichols who was discovered and sang with DukeEllington, while still in her teens.

Friday, April 4:
12 noon
"Muse Of Fire”
A documentary based on the book “Operation Homecoming: Iraq, Afganistan and the Home Front in the World or U.S. Troops and Their Families,” sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts, includes readings by Kevin Costner, Edward Parker Gyokeres and writer Jack Lewis Q & A with filmmaker Lawrence Bridges will follow the screening. Proceeds will benefit the Los Angeles Veterans Artistic Alliance.

2:00pm
Special Presentation:
“Debriefing”
A project produced by Los Angeles Area Veterans Artists Alliance. A Q & A with Artist Director Keith Jeffreys will follow the screening, with proceeds benefiting the Los Angeles Veterans Artistic Alliance.

3:00pm
“OJ Is Guilty – But Not of Murder” (the overlooked suspect) Los Angeles Premiere
A documentary by private investigator and author William C. Dear, that exposes new evidence on one of America’s most controversial murder trials. Executive Produced by William C. Dear, produced by John McCready. Q&A to follow the screening.

6:00pm
Carl Reiner Tribute: Two Episodes from “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” “Coast To Coast Bigmouth” and “The Lives and Loves of Joe Coogan.”

7:00pm
“The Comic” – Carl Reiner Tribute Film
Dick Van Dyke, Michelle Lee and Mickey Rooney star in the trials and tribulations of silent screen comic Billy Bright.

9:00pm
“All of Me” – Carl Reiner Tribute Film
Steve Martin and Lily Tomlin star in this romp, as a dying millionaire inadvertently becomes trapped in her lawyers’ body.

Saturday, April 5:
10:00am
“In Search of the Second Amendment”
The documentary explores the history of the American right to arms and how it impacts our lives in the 21st century. Produced and directed by David T. Hardy.

12 noon
“Truce Hurts,” a Tom and Jerry cartoon – Arthur Freed Tribute Film
“Gigi” (50th Anniversary Celebration. The multiple Academy Award winning Lerner and Loewe musical, set in Paris, is directed by Vincente Minnelli and stars Leslie Caron, Maurice Chevalier, Louis Jourdan and Hermione Gingold.

3:00pm
“Train Master” –World Premiere
In the family film, a retired train master must save his grandson, his former boss’ son and three other children careening on a runaway train. Starring Jonathan Hall, Michael Biesanz, Mercedes Rose, Elijah Nelson. Written and Directed by Phil Bramson.

6:00pm
VIP Reception and Gala for Carl Riener

7:00pm
Festival Awards Ceremony and honorees:
Carl Reiner – ‘Thomas Ince Award’ for excellence in filmmaking
Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky – ‘Founder’s Award’ for support of the motion picture industry
‘Arthur Freed Award’ for Best Student Film and Backlot Awards for Best Independent Fiction Feature, Best Documentary and Best Short Film.

Shorts entered into competition and lectures will be presented in the Iksan/Yanju City Rooms. The schedule will be announced shortly.

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The Gem of Hair Salons

Heady Atmosphere
From the moment you walk through the doors of the spacious, Zen inspired environment, you’ll know you’ve found something special. Incorporating the natural lighting from the exquisite panoramic view of the Rodeo Collection, Salon Maxime prides itself on being one of the few salons that infuses natural beauty and tranquility with its high-end, chic atmosphere and staff. The result is a brilliant combination that immediately makes clients feel at home, relaxed and confident.

First Impression
Behind the desk, you will be warmly met by either Josh or taken under the wing of salon manager and ever watchful eye of Thomas. Instead of feeling like being led into an assembly line, they will spend any time or answer any questions without the usual snarling lip and attitude most salons sport as if they were bouncers in a second rate club. The first impression is the only one that counts, and in Salon Maxime the initial greeting of care and consideration is impressive and lasting.

Meet & Greet
Unlike other salons in the area, the staff of Salon Maxime goes out of their way to make you feel like a dear friend. Anyone who has a free moment will introduce themselves and make sure all your needs are being met. No more cold shoulders or blank stares as you sift through magazines before being pampered. The pampering begins from the start and is sustained by the complete dedication of a staff that is committed to excellent care and treatment of every client. You won’t feel like a customer doing them a favor, but their favorite star dropping in for a day of fun and relaxation.

Communication
Whether you want to be daring and bold with a whole new look or keep your current one, clients receive a consultation with salon owner and stylist Maxime or your appointed stylist before the process begins. This vital step of communication puts one at ease and inspires confidence that you, the client, are being heard. Too many other stylists listen with one ear while they treat your hair like their own personal canvas, turning a consultation into a negotiation. At Salon Maxime, the client comes first. If you’re not sure exactly what it is you want, don’t worry. The staff and the stylists will offer helpful suggestions in a clear way to ensure total satisfaction that will meet your personal needs.

Relax & Recline
Using the leading professional in hair care products by Kerastase Paris, Salon Maxime nourishes your hair with a gentle shampoo and massage. You don’t need to be a gymnast by arching your neck into a blast of icy water like other salons. The sink and chair is proportionate to height for complete comfort and total rejuvenation. Sit back, relax and enjoy.

Transformative Cut & Style
The real magic begins with the hair cut. Under the expert hands of Maxime, even the simplest cuts can turn into a complete transformation. Maxime has that magical quality to literally capture every individual’s personality with a style that brings it out and gives it an extra spark. He is not just one of the most recognizable hair stylists among celebrities and his peers, but an artist. Maxime takes time to study facial features and structure, enhancing your natural beauty with a cut and style that seems like you were born to wear.

In Living Color
Want to give your locks some extra oomph with color or highlights? Look no further than with Lisa Oliver, one of the top colorists in LA. Specializing in blondes, Lisa has colored some of the most recognizable blonde bombshells in the city, including Heather Locklear, Michelle Pfeiffer, Felicity Huffman, Lori Loughlin, Kelly Rutherford and tress namesake, Goldie Hawn. Member of the National Color Advisory Board, Lisa is committed to providing stunning color without stripping the natural integrity of the hair. Like Maxime, Lisa considers skin tone, facial features and the look with a complimentary color. There is no color too difficult for Lisa, and there is no guessing game as to how it will look once it’s done. Whether it’s bold or natural, Lisa will work to make sure the color is right for you.

Brow Shaper to the Stars
Salon Maxime also offers complete grooming services that include eyebrow shaping and tinting, makeup application and lessons from Makeup Artist and Eye Brow Specialist Robyn Cosio, the brow shaper to the stars. Robyn’s mastery of eye brows have earned her a loyal following of celebrity clientele including Nicole Kidman, Kate Bosworth, Felicity Huffman, Gina Gershon, Marissa Tomei, Vanessa Marcel, and Bryce Dallas Howard. Her acclaimed beauty book ‘The Eyebrow’ reveals the art and importance of a well-shaped brow. Many of her clients are amazed at how much younger they look and call her brow shaping an "instant facelift." As a makeup artist, Robyn’s artistry has been seen in top fashion and women’s magazines such as, Vogue, InStyle, Allure, and Marie Claire. She applies makeup for her celebrity clientele for TV appearances on talk shows like "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" and "Late Show with David Letterman." She gives makeup lessons, assessing her client’s makeup bags and will personally shop with clients to help them determine their best color and needs for their everyday look.

Salon Maxime Products
Keep that dazzling new look with products designed by the master himself. After decades of expertise, Maxime knows the daily wear and tear that can make a sassy style fall flat. Creating a specialized line of products that fill a need where most lines leave off, Maxime is able to provide clients his own hair care line of products that will target specific needs and nutrients. Using natural ingredients in his special formulas, Maxime products will have you coming back for more and keep you looking your very best when you’re styling at home.  
Feel Like a Million
For all this specialized treatment and star quality, one might think you’d have to be a Hilton to afford it, but Salon Maxime goes that extra mile by providing excellent care at more than reasonable rates. The best-kept secret in Rodeo Collection is finally being outed, and you don’t have to spend a million bucks to walk out of Salon Maxime looking and feeling like a million.

More on Maxime
One of the most in-demand and trusted hair stylists in the business, Maxime began his early career as a stylist in high-end salons Claude Maxime and Jean Claude Aubry. It wasn’t long before the Toulouse, French native found his home with renowned Jose Eber salon. Styling some of the biggest names and celebrities such as Natalie Cole, Jennifer Tilly, Ray Liotta, and Lou Diamond Phillips, Maxime also accompanied celebrities to the Cannes Film Festival on behalf of Universal Pictures, and kept those leading ladies like Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Hurley, Emma Thompson, Jeanne Tripplehorn and Angelica Houston, looking glamorous at film press junkets and publicity promotions.

After 15 years with Jose Eber, Maxime opened the doors to his own salon just blocks away from his former home in June 2004. Hand selecting his staff, Maxime’s stylists have worked in some of the most prestigious salons including John Frieda, Jose Eber, Sally Hershberger, Art Luna, Peter Coppola Salon, and Fredrick Fekkai to name a few. 

For Maxime, it is essential for every client to feel special and appreciated. It isn’t just about the hair, although Maxime may be arguably one of the best, but about the total experience everyone feels when they walk into his salon.

Photo Shoot
Recently, Salon Maxime held a photo shoot on Sunday, March 2nd to showcase his fantastic cuts and styles. From natural, wind blown, luscious locks to ultra-chic, sharp edge, razor cut style, Maxime reveals his multi-faceted flair for hair design while leading the trend for this summer. Forget that TomKat severe bob, and go for a cut that is distinct but youthful. Wanna let your hair hang down? Start with Salon Maxime glossing treatment, and add some layers for a softer, more natural look. Let hair swing and shine, the new look is a brighter, lighter you with hair that moves.

The Salon…by Maxime photo layout and campaign can be seen in upcoming issues of several magazines including C Magazine, Los Angeles Magazine, Malibu, and Angeleno. There will be more to come for Salon Maxime and Maxime looks forward to expanding his successful presence with plans on opening salons in West Los Angeles, Pasadena, and San Francisco in the future. Right now, the future of Salon Maxime in Beverly Hills couldn’t look brighter and his clients couldn’t be happier.

Make the Change
The next time you’re cringing on facing another monochromatic, ultra-modern hair scare chamber complete with frosty indifference and a chilly attitude, stop by Salon Maxime at the Rodeo Collection and you’ll see what makes this salon standout from all those other imposters. See the difference, feel the difference with a new look that makes a difference.

The Salon by Maxime
421 N. Rodeo Drive, Rodeo Collection
Beverly Hills
310.205.2370
Maxime’s Services and Costs at Salon Maxime:
Women’s Haircuts: $180
Men’s Haircuts: $130

Lisa Oliver’s Services and Costs:
Base Color (including glossing and conditioning treatments): $120
Highlights (including glossing and conditioning treatments): $250

Robyn Cosio
Brow Shaping: $65
Brow Tinting: $15
Lash Tinting: $40
Lash Add-ons: $50
Makeup Lessons: $350
Makeup Application: $150
Personal Makeup Shopping: $150 per hour.
 

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