Included in the kit are: aromatherapy oil (10ml), an aromatherapy candle, the Aromatin fragrance dispenser, and an instruction booklet. The Am I Dreaming kit is available online at www.spaluce.com for $48.00.
 
Dr. Sharon

Dr. Sharon has been the source of health and well-being for music superstars, top actors and models for almost two decades. Her clients include Cameron Diaz, Gwyneth Paltrow, REM’s Michael Stipe, The Foo Fighters, and Pearl Jam among many other top stars. Aromatherapy is just one of Dr. Sharon’s preventative methods to promote both physical and mental health. Whether on location for a film or on a worldwide tour, her programs establish a health comfort level, keeping the stars at peak performance despite their high stress and demanding schedules. Now you too can share in the experience.

Coldspring, an ultimate love story, chronicles three documented lifetimes as well as two earlier ones that they intuited to demonstrate the evolution of karma from lifetime to lifetime through a person reincarnating within their own family, friends and community. This karmic evolution takes place over a span of 12,000 years. The book follows three people who continue to meet in different lifetimes fated to follow their karmic path leading to jealousy, betrayal, and finally…murder.

Based on True Story

Three of these lifetime occurrences are actual true murders that happened in the small town of Coldspring, NY. Cheri Mancuso’s own great Aunt Bernice Kenyon in 1935 is the last murder of the story. This book starts the journey of Cheri Mancuso’s and John Scarano’s connection to each other. They discovered an undeniable karmic connection between the two authors and Bernice Kenyon, Harold Farnsworth and Freddy Lindsay. Coldspring is the first of a trilogy book series. The books to follow are: The Trial and The Resolution.

Cheri Mancuso’s Bio

Cheri, with twenty years of psychic practice, gives individuals and sometimes police in Southern California help in locating missing objects or people, contacting the passed on, speaking with Spirit Guides and so much more. Also, besides her practice in Southern Califonia, Cheri & John spend much of their time on their 25 acre farm in upstate, NY among the quiet life with the Amish with their german Shepard Conner who was adopted after her Spirit Guides told her he would appear. Three days later, Conner an abandoned puppy of 7 months ran on the property and has been there since Oct. 2003.

John Scarano’s Bio

John Scarano is the first-generation American son of Italian immigrants and a native of South Plainfield, New Jersey. He served his country during the Vietnam conflict as an enlisted man with the United States Marine Corps. He has studied Metaphysics, tarot, mystical symbolism and numerology for over forty years and currently teaches private classes on these subjects with his partner, Cheri Mancuso. He is clairsentient, clairaudient and is a Reiki Master. Coldspring is a result of John and Cheri’s creative and psychic talent. It is their first collaborative publication in which the metaphysical arts have been used for character development.

These are first edition and first print. Soft cover $ 16.95, Hardcover $ 26.95.

The book is available through Cheri Mancuso, simply email her to get a copy of this spellbinding story for yourself or others as a holiday gift: cherimancuso@earthlink.net

The exhillarating view from the Zeppelin Eureka.

Stretching 15-feet longer than a 747 and 50-feet longer than the largest blimp, Eureka is the world’s largest airship. One of only three Zeppelins currently operating in the world, Eureka offers passengers spectacular 360-degree views of the sights on flightseeing tours above Los Angeles, as well as San Francisco Bay, Silicon Valley and Monterrey.

Unforgettable Family Memories

“As much as the holidays are about togetherness, anyone who has ever hosted a holiday knows the moment of panic when the inevitable question, ‘what am I going to do with everyone?’ crosses their mind,” remarked Airship Ventures Co-Founder and CEO Alexandra Hall. “I’ve yet to meet a passenger who didn’t get off of our airship grinning from ear-to-ear. Gathering family and friends together to experience a one-of-a-kind aerial tour aboard Eureka is a great way to entertain guests and create unforgettable memories.”

Only Female Zeppelin Pilot

The Zeppelin Eureka Airship signature grin.

Flying Eureka into the peaceful skies safely is pilot Katharine Board. Kate holds several distinctions, including being a member of an elite group even more rare than female astronauts  — female airship pilots. Kate however, holds an even more prestigious title  – -  the only female Zeppelin pilot in the world. From her first instruction flight at the age of 18, Kate has risen fast in the male-dominated world of airships. One of her first aviation positions, with Virgin Hot Air Balloon flights, led to her first airship position, with Virgin Lightships. Beginning as a ground crewman, she eventually worked her way up to pilot, and has CAA, LBA and FAA commercial airship licenses. Kate has flown extensively in Europe and America, logging more than 5,000 flight hours. At 5-feet 2-inches tall, she effortlessly commands the largest airship in the world.

The only female Zeppelin pilot in the world, Kate Board.

Holiday Savings

As part of jumpstarting the holiday season, Airship Ventures, which celebrated its one-year anniversary of service in October, will be continuing a month-long celebration of this milestone by re-offering its most popular promotion while in Long Beach. Just in time for holiday gift-giving and family outings, passengers who buy one ticket at full price will save 50 percent on a second. This promotional rate applies to all regularly priced Long Beach tours between Nov. 19-23, as well as to all gift certificates bought before Nov. 30.

“Like floating in a luxury skybox on a cloud,” as one passenger described it, Airship Ventures flightseeing tours offer passengers spectacular 360-degree views of the scenery below. In addition to popular one- and two-hour Los Angeles-area routes showcasing either the dramatic Pacific Coast, or historic L.A. landmarks and famous Tinseltown icons, Airship Ventures will for the first time offer 30-minute and night flights from Long Beach in November.

Taste of Zeppelin Tours

The 30-minute Taste of Zeppelin tours will give passengers the opportunity to experience a luxury flight in a Zeppelin airship above scenic Long Beach Harbor and to enjoy the stunning Pacific and California Coastline views stretching out before them. One-hour Night Time Tour passengers will also enjoy the leisurely luxury of airship travel while marveling at the inky black Pacific Ocean meeting the shoreline and admiring the glittering city below.

The Zeppelin Airship cockpit.

Night Tours

“By adding our Night Tour and Taste of Zeppelin flights to the roster of tours we offer passengers in Southern California, we feel like we can truly say there is an experience for everyone. Whether you’re flying on an airship to help fulfill your bucket list, looking for the ultimate romantic date, celebrating a special occasion, or just wanting to have a great time with family and friends this holiday season, you will find that on Eureka,” continued Hall.

Coastal  Tour

For those seeking the ultimate Zeppelin experience, a limited number of seats remain on our California Airship Cruises between Long Beach and the San Francisco Bay Area. Soaring above the California Coastline and Central Valley, these 8-hour cruises follow Highway 1 on Nov. 24 (northbound) as Eureka travels to-and-from Long Beach from her home base at Moffett Field near San Francisco.

About Airship Ventures, Inc.

Founded in 2007 in California, Airship Ventures, Inc., operates the only passenger airship operation in the United States, featuring Eureka, the world’s largest airship. The Zeppelin’s spacious cabin comfortably accommodates one pilot, one flight attendant, and 12 passengers, with luxury features including oversized panoramic windows, an onboard restroom with window, and a 180-degree rear observation window and “love seat” that wraps the entire aft of the cabin. Using the inert gas helium for lift, and vectored thrust engines for flight, Zeppelin NTs have been flying in Germany and Japan since 1997 with an unparalleled safety record. 

Zeppelin Airship, Eureka, ready to take you above it all.

Weather permitting, Los Angeles-area flights depart from the AirFlite FBO terminal, adjacent to the main terminal at Long Beach Airport (3250 AirFlite Way, Long Beach, CA 90807, at the corner of Cherry and Wardlow). Flights vary in duration from 30-minutes to 2-hours and range in price from $199-$990, plus tax, per person. Private charters and sunset flights are available.

For more information about Eureka, or to view a detailed flight schedule and purchase tickets, visit www.airshipventures.com, or call 650-969-8100 x111.

“What makes this auction stand out is the variety of formats and vintages from all of the best vineyards,” director of client services at Spectrum Wine Auctions, Amanda Keston explains.   Highlights include: two bottles of 1945 Latour; a full case of 1959 Lafite Rothschild; a 6 liter of 1982 Cheval Blanc in its original wooden case; a 6 Liter of 1989 Haut Brion; and more than 350 bottles and magnums combined of Harlan Estate from the best vintages (1994,1997, 2001 and 2002). It’s not ALL blue-chip bottlings, however: “One interesting lot in particular is Lot #665—a single 750ml bottle of 1966 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon; the vineyard’s very first vintage,” she notes. “The estimate?  A mere $50 to own a piece of history.”

Revolutionizing Wine Auctioning

Spectrum Wine Auctions, the world’s newest live and online auction house of fine collectible wine, has posted its full online catalog and lot profiles to www.spectrumwine.com.  Visitors to the site and registrants for the auction will see two things they have never seen from any auction house before: while all the lots have photographs, Spectrum has created remarkable 360-degree photographs of two hundred (almost one third) of the lots.  Second, the auction features single estimates for each of the lots.

“The process offered us a chance to innovate, and to fill gaps in the industry we felt it well worth the effort and expense to fill,” says Spectrum Wine Auctions CEO Greg Roberts.  “First, it shows the buyers EXACTLY what they are getting.  These images—22 photos per 360-degree view—amount to a DNA fingerprint of each lot clients can use as a reference guide.  There is no mistaking the provenance and integrity of the bottles.  It’s also a fresh way for online visitors to evaluate the lots and shows them the wine in a way they haven’t seen before.”

Single Estimate Assurance

Another Spectrum innovation buyers and sellers  will appreciate is the single estimate for each lot. Traditionally, auction houses often give estimates in ranges, sometimes so broad as to be difficult to interpret. “The fact is, a single estimate benefits the consignor AND the collector,” Roberts explains.  “Quite simply, we feel it’s more accurate.  It gives a bidder a strong center point around which to structure their bidding strategy, whether they are bidding for value or are feeling more adventurous.”

McClendon’s Collection Featured

The bulk of the 5500 bottle, 686-lot collection– 3800 bottles — comes from The Collection of Aubrey McClendon, arguably one of America’s greatest collectors.   As CEO of Chesapeake Energy Corporation, (NYSE:CHK), one of the US’ largest natural gas producers, McClendon amassed the resources and resolve to create a collection of nearly unprecedented range and quality.

McClendon is well known for going large: collecting full-case bottlings of favorite vintages, often in their wooden cases and often in grand formats up to 6 liters.  “While I have a lot of 750s, I think the most distinctive part of my collection is the large format bottles,” he said. “And the reason for that is that when I first saw an Imperial of wine…I said to myself, this is a work of art. This is beautiful. And it’s approachable. It’s sharable. It’s understandable, and at the end of the day it’s consumable. A primary collecting goal of mine has been to hunt for top-notch 6-liter bottles of wine over time.”

Why Hong Kong?

“Hong Kong has, in a very short time, ascended to the number two position among wine auction and collecting cities, ahead of London and gaining on New York.” Roberts explains, “Hong Kong is the center of the international wine collectors. Collectors there prefer, for example, the top Bordeaux and Burgundies in full case quantities while Americans tend to focus on specific bottles; each collector seeks out what their palate and preferences request. We have selected a noteworthy breadth and depth of vintages from the best vineyards in a wide range of formats with the Hong Kong buyer in mind: We are offering Chateau Mouton Rothschild in every format from 750ml to 6L imperial.”

Keston adds, “We have high hopes for our inaugural Hong Kong auction.  We feel the size and scope of the auction is of particular interest to that market.  It’s pretty obvious the Hong Kong auction scene–and the Hong Kong fine and collectible wine scene overall–is burgeoning and Spectrum Wine Auctions was formed in part to satisfy the needs and desires of our Hong Kong buyer.  The attention paid to and success of venues like Crown Wine Cellars–a remarkable place in the world to buy, enjoy and store wine–is symbolic of the potential success we see in Hong Kong.  This is the first of several auctions we plan to bring to Hong Kong–we’re in the market to stay.”

Spectrum Gives Back to Charity

Spectrum will donate the commissions on Lot #39—an Imperial of 1990 Lafite Rothschild signed by McClendon himself—to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, the largest private hunger-relief organization in McClendon’s home state of Oklahoma. More information about the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma can be found at www.regionalfoodbank.org.

High Caliber Wines and Business Standards

As an upstart with a world-class pedigree, it may seem Spectrum has a lot to prove.  Roberts concludes, “We hold ourselves to the same high standards that every other well-known auction house does, only higher. What makes us different is that we offer the highest caliber of wines, superlative service, and an expert, experienced staff as well as a comfortable, approachable environment devoid of the pretense usually associated with these types of events.  With all this auction has going for it, we are looking forward to an auspicious start to the business.”

Spectrum Wine Auctions

Spectrum Wine Auctions, based in Irvine, Calif., delivers a worldwide buying, selling and appraisal venue for collectors of rare and fine vintage wines. Live wine auctions in premier locations from Napa Valley to Hong Kong, as well as online wine auctions that span the globe, offer bidders and consignors alike the opportunity to collect and sell their favorite wines of the world with confidence and ease. Spectrum Wine Auctions is a division of Spectrum Group International, Inc., which includes first-class auction houses in numismatics, philately, and fine arms and militaria, as well as trading of bullion coins, bullion gold, silver and platinum to the wholesale marketplace, and financing on a wide array of collectibles, including coins and currency, bullion, and guns and militaria.

To view entire catalog, register for the auction November 21st, or watch an interview with Aubrey McClendon and Mario Sculatti, director of sales and consignments for Spectrum Wine Auctions, please visit: www.spectrumwine.com or call 888.982.1982.

Nestled among the beautiful coastal foothills of Carlsbad, CA, La Costa Resort and Spa boasts the 43,000 square-foot Spa at La Costa, 610 spacious and well-appointed guestrooms, suites and villas, a Clubhouse with a fitness center, two acclaimed restaurants – Legends and BlueFire Grill and two championship golf courses. Here a few gift specials to delight the most finicky on your list from La Costa Resort and Spa:

Holiday Traditions Package

     • Accommodations
     • $50 free bonus resort credit, valid towards spa, golf, Kidtopia, or holiday dining

Rates begin at $239 per room, per night
(rates do not include taxes or $22 daily resort charge)

Legendary Golf Courses

Golfers who play La Costa’s courses walk in the footsteps of the greats – Nicklaus, Woods, Palmer, Trevino, Player, Miller, Crenshaw. It is the only resort in Southern California that boasts its own two 18-hole tournament-caliber courses. Golfers of all abilities can measure their performance against the best players in the world when they play on either of La Costa Resort and Spa’s two golf courses, both designed by golf architect Dick Wilson. Both North and South courses feature lush fairways, flawless greens and plenty of challenges, including large, high-lipped bunkers on many holes, expanses of water and sneaky streams with fast bent grass greens.

Kidtopia

The resort’s supervised children’s program, Kidtopia, is divided into three areas based upon age groups: 6 months to two years; two-four years; and four-12 years.  Each area contains interactive attractions such as a tree house, dance floor, large saltwater aquarium, small animal display, high-tech entertainment stations with computers and an endless selection of games, books and toys. The infant/toddler area offers a calm, nurturing environment complete with age-appropriate toys, cribs, changing tables and high chairs. Children 4-12 can participate in full or half day programs. Children 3 and under can enjoy Kidtopia for up to two hours per day.

Signature Dining

Dining at La Costa Resort and Spa ranges from light fare to California casual, with award-winning cuisine and lovely indoor or outdoor seating. The signature BlueFire Grill serves flavorful Southern California fare and boasts a large, outdoor seating area that overlooks the plaza. Serving three meals a day, the family-friendly Legends Bistro offers a chic, natural interior and a tempting array of comfort foods with an international twist. Other dining options include the Lobby Lounge, Spa Café, Splash Poolside Bar & Grill, Garden Poolside Bar & Café and room service.

Spa Gift Card

• Give the gift of relaxation and wellness with a Spa at La Costa gift card. Available in any dollar denomination.

Holiday Spa Treatments

• Apple Butter & Cinnamon Body Wrap 50-minutes/ $135
  A decadent body wrap that is ideal for rejuvenating dry winter skin. This aromatic lotion goes on smooth to hydrate leaving your skin soft to the touch.
• Pumpkin Spice Body Masque 50-minutes/ $135
  This vitamin-rich Pumpkin Spice Masque naturally exfoliates dead skin cells and stimulates lymph circulation.
• Peppermint Reflexology 50-minutes/ $135
  Revive your tired toes with our invigorating Peppermint Foot Scrub.  Natural peppermint essential oils cool inflammation and leave your renewed skin feeling soft and your mind relaxed.

Ultimate Spa Pampering

The Spa at La Costa is an elegant sanctuary envisioned by world-renowned spa specialist Sylvia Sepielli. The building is designed in California Colonial architectural style, with walls of smooth stucco, terracotta tile roofing, cathedral ceilings, wrought iron embellishments and a magnificent 25-foot bell tower. Feng Shui-inspired features are found throughout the spa, including a fountain topped with an “eternal” flame that welcomes guests.

The spa features 42 treatment rooms, including 20 massage, eight facial, two multi-purpose, two Thai, six body treatment, one Vichy shower, one hydro-tub and two VIP spa suites for couples.  The VIP spa suites include side-by-side massage tables, shower, bathroom, fireplace and a private, outdoor garden patio with a whirlpool tub. In addition, the Spa at La Costa houses the full-service Yamaguchi Salon, a spa boutique, spa café and movement and fitness training studios.

Chopra Center for Wellbeing

Founded by world-renowned holistic physicians Deepak Chopra, M.D. and David Simon, M.D., the Chopra Center for Wellbeing is located on the grounds of La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, CA. Throughout the year, guests from throughout the world come to the Chopra Center to heal their body, find emotional freedom, and connect to their essential self and life’s purpose. While attending the Chopra Center’s programs and workshops, they experience La Costa’s lush coastal setting, soothing atmosphere, and luxurious accommodations.

For more info on specials and gift certificates at La Costa Spa and Resort, visit: www.lacosta.com or call 800.854.5000

Koo Koo Roo ‘s Thanksgiving Specials

Original Turkey Feast includes a fresh oven roasted turkey, gravy, cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and a choice of fresh pumpkin, apple or pecan pie. Large size serves approximately16-20 people and is available for $149.99. Small size serves approximately10-12 people and is available for $99.99.

Mini Turkey Feast includes carved turkey breast, gravy and choice of two Koo Koo Roo signature sides. Serves up to 4 and is available for $20.00.

Single Serving Thanksgiving Dinner includes carved turkey breast, gravy and choice of two Koo Koo Roo signature sides. Available for $10.00.

All Koo Koo Roo locations will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Orders for the Original Turkey Feast must be placed by 5 pm on Tuesday, November 24th.

Koo Koo Roo’s Healthy Motto

Koo Koo Roo Chicken Bistro was hatched in Los Angeles in 1988 and has been clucking its message of the Life Unfried around Southern California ever since.  It is a leading fast-casual provider of “Better for You” food with wholesome and healthy menu items, including succulent rotisserie chicken, the famous bone-in, skinless charbroiled chicken breast, freshly prepared salads, savory sandwiches and seasonal side dishes including the famous “Ross Squash.” Ardent fans have long hailed Koo Koo Roo as the healthier alternative to traditionally fatty fast food and catapulted its signature dishes to cult status within the Southern California community.  Koo Koo Roo Chicken Bistro operates 15 fast casual restaurants throughout Southern California.  For more information please visit www.kookooroo.com

Sheathed in layers of golden fabric of an Oscar de la Renta gown appearing like a mythical Greek goddess, Cate Blanchett is featured on the cover of this December’s issue of VOGUE, appearing on newsstands November 24th, with an interview by VOGUE writer Adam Green about her greatest role to date: A Streetcar Named Desire’s Blanche DuBois.  Green observes that Cate ‘’remains a creature of the stage” and also asks her about the importance of theater, family life and career path.

Here a few highlights from Adam Green’s interview with Cate, the self-proclaimed ‘theater geek’:

On the importance of theater:

“In the wake of everything that’s happened in the world in the last eighteen months, we’re thinking about what we’ve lost. So much of the play is about the death of poetry and idealism and hope—the fine, delicate things in our lives, the intangible, ephemeral things in our lives—which theater actually represents, doesn’t it? It’s ephemeral by its very nature. If you’re not there, you miss it. It’s gone.”

She is so dedicated to preserving theater, she and her husband of twelve years, Andrew Upton, became artistic directors of the Sydney Theatre Company, in Sydney, Australia, beginning in 2008.

On appreciating the sense of stability that staying semi-put and working regular hours has allowed both Blanchett and husband, Andrew Upton, to give their three boys:

“’There are so few experiences in our manicured, nanny-stated existence that have the quality of circus.  Theater still does.’ And so, when the boys aren’t playing with friends, they can usually be found playing backstage.  ‘They’re always engaged in the family business, so to speak.’”

Cate, with her sense of humor intact, on the matter of having children said, “The world is so massively overpopulated, but if you’re halfway decent-looking and you make nice ones, then I think it’s probably your responsibility to make more. That’s why we just have to have more of them!” We just adore Cate at LA’s The Place because she doesn’t take life too seriously!

On career choices:

“I’m not very cautious or careful. It’s always been more about having a variety of experiences than any planned trajectory… I think that in a way, projects choose you.”

From playing the ethereal Elf Queen Galadriel in the “Lord of the Rings” movies to the tough Katherine Hepburn in “Aviator” to the young Queen Elizabeth I in the movie, “Elizabeth”, this certainly demonstrates her immense range of acting abilities and diverse career projects.  Geoffrey Rush makes a insightful comment about her intelligent acting technique.

Actor Geoffrey Rush on Cate Blanchett:

“As an actor, you either work off your own personality, and that’s what you’re peddling, or, like Cate, you draw out from the source material all the many dark, mysterious, and conflicting elements of the character that are going to make it engaging and trilling for the audience.”

To read the entire article from the December VOGUE article, “Truth or Dare” on Cate Blanchett, please click HERE.

Cate Blanchette, photographed for the cover of Vogue, by famed photographer Annie Leibovitz.

Or to see the charming and elegant Cate expose her self-effacing personality as a risk-taking actress under the lens of renowned celebrity photographer, Annie Leibovitz, please click HERE for VOGUE’s December Arts Issue.

Ever heard of Mexican whiskey or French brandy? Actually you might not recognize them by their past nicknames, but after campaigning for a legal distinct name, you know them today as tequila and cognac. Today, cachaça (pronounced ka-SHAH-sa) makers are working to remove the Brazilian rum moniker to replace it with the accurate name of cachaça. One of the world’s largest distributors of cachaca, Leblon Cachaça, has launched their “Legalize Cachaça” campaign with their first stop in the U.S in Los Angeles at Cedd Moses’ downtown Doheny Bar.

Master Distiller, Gilles Merlet

During the “Legalize Cachaça” event, Leblon Cachaça’s Master Distiller, Gilles Merlet met on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 with industry professionals and media to discuss and further educate about Leblon Cachaça by showcasing the Maison Leblon replica of their Brazil distillery. He walked the attendees through the process of distilling Leblon cachaça with a mini, portable Maison Leblon.  Merlet expertly demonstrated the cutting and pressing of fresh cut sugarcane to the fermentation process, the Alambic distillation and finally the bottling of Leblon cachaça from a copper pot still.  The guest sampled freshly distilled cachaça and were delighted by the taste.

Fresh sugarcane is the secret to Leblon's cachaça

“We are excited to have Gilles in the U.S. With Rio on the mind, and the legalization of  cachaça close to becoming its own appellation in the US, Gilles’ visit could not be more timely,” said Daniel K. Nelson from the Doheny.

Doheny's Master Mixologist, Daniel K. Nelson.

Taking Cachaça to New Heights

Master mixologist, Daniel K. Nelson of the Doheny, kept the Leblon flowing with four different kinds of cocktails to demonstrate its versatility.  The Flor de Coco, Guava Lava, the classic Caipirinha (pronounced kai-pur-EEN-ya), and Ode to Jazz drinks kept the media and bar industry happily chatting and signing petitions to legalize cachaça. Riviera Restaurant served hors d’oeuvres of cocktail shrimp, ham and dessert flan.

Here are Nelson’s recipes for your own Legalize Cachaca party:

Flor De Coco

2 Large table spoons of Coconut puree , 1/2 of a fresh squeezed Lime, 1.5 oz. Leblon, top with Champagne

Leblon Caip

1.5 oz of Sugar cane juice, 1.5 oz Leblon, 1/2 of a fresh squeezed Lime

Guava Lava

2 Large Table spoons of Guava puree, 1/2 fresh squeezed Lime, 1 oz Taylor’s Velvet Falernum, 1.5 oz. Leblon, Black pepper garnish

Ode to Jazz

1.5 oz. of Leblon, top with Thai Coffee, shred White chocolate to top cocktail

Leblon fans campaigning for legalization of cachaca.

Hollywood Loves Leblon

Not only is Leblon making a splash with mixologists in the most trendy bars and restaurants on both coasts, Hollywood celebrities are happily becoming fans as well. It was most recently found in the hands of Kat Von D and Michael Madsen at the movie premiere of The Bleeding last week.  A host of celebrities and up and coming actors in attendance at the premiere and after-party at Hyde Lounge enjoyed spicy Leblon caipirinhas throughout the night.

Here is the recipe for the cocktail Kat Von D was sipping on:

Bell Pepper and Jalapeno Caipirinha

2 1/2  oz Leblon
1 oz  oz Agave
1 slice of Red Bell Pepper
1 slice of Yellow Pepper
1 slice of Jalapeno (seeds removed)

Sliced pieces of Red and Yellow Bell Pepper, one slice each, sliced Long ways, Agave syrup, small slice of jalapeño, Leblon.  Muddle peppers, jalapeño and Agave, add ice, and Leblon and strain into a highball glass with a slice of each red and yellow pepper as garnish.

Cocktail Menu at the Event.

About Leblon Cachaça

Leblon is an ultra-premium cachaça produced at the Maison Leblon in Minas Gerais, Brazil.  The rum-like spirit, the most award-winning cachaça on the market, is made from fresh pressed Brazilian sugar cane that is then rested in cognac casks and blended to create superior complexity and taste. Cachaça is the main ingredient in the Caipirinha (pronounced kai-pur-EEN-ya), the national cocktail of Brazil.  Leblon is the leading luxury Cachaça in high-end establishments and a Four-Time Gold Medal Award Winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Best in Class at the Rum Experience International Tasting Competition – London.  Leblon is available in all 50 U.S. states and cultural capitals around the world such as Sao Paulo, London, Paris, and Bangkok. For more information, visit www.leblon.com

Photo credit: Leigh Hopkins

Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s co-production of the “Mary Poppins” musical is just what the doctor ordered in these times of economic worry and stress as the message of family before material wealth is magically conveyed by the original 2006 Broadway cast.  Perfect for a holiday gift or a way to entertain visiting guests, Mary Poppins runs through February 7th, 2010.

Mary Poppins: Practically Perfect

“Mary Poppins,” a co-production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh, opened on Broadway on November 16, 2006.  Based on P.L. Travers’ cherished stories and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, “Mary Poppins” the stage play features the Academy Award®-winning music and lyrics of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman.  The stage production has been created, in collaboration with Cameron Mackintosh, by Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, who has written the book, and the Olivier Award-winning team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, who have composed new songs and additional music and lyrics.

Award Winning Creative Team

Olivier Award-winning director Richard Eyre leads the award-winning creative team, with co-direction and choreography by Tony® and Olivier Award winner Matthew Bourne. “Mary Poppins” features eye-popping set and costume design by Tony Award winner Bob Crowley, co-choreography by Olivier Award winner Stephen Mear, lighting design by Howard Harrison, orchestrations by William David Brohn, and music supervision by David Caddick. The tour’s creative team includes Tour Director Anthony Lyn, Associate Choreographer Geoffrey Garrett, and Music Director James Dodgson.

Everybody Loves Mary

Consistently among the top-grossing shows on Broadway, “Mary Poppins” continues in its 3rd smash year at the New Amsterdam Theatre and recently celebrated its 1000th performance – a milestone reached by only a rare few number of shows in Broadway history. The Broadway production has grossed over $152 million to date and been seen by over 1.8 million theatregoers.

Simultaneously, the show’s popularity grows around the globe. Following a successful three year run (December 2004 – January 2008) at the Prince Edward Theatre on London’s West End, a UK tour of “Mary Poppins” commenced in summer 2008 and concluded its acclaimed run in Cardiff in April 2009. The Australian production of “Mary Poppins” will premiere in July 2010 at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Melbourne.

Mary Poppins Debuts in Holland

An open-ended run of “Mary Poppins” will take residence at the Circus Theatre in Scheveningen, Holland, outside of Amsterdam. The show will open in April 2010 at the Circus Theatre following “Tarzan’s” record setting run there. “Mary Poppins” will be produced in Holland by Stage Entertainment in association with Disney and Cameron Mackintosh.

Original Broadway Cast in LA

The Los Angeles engagement of “Mary Poppins” is by arrangement with Center Theatre Group and is part of CTG’s 2009-2010 season at the Ahmanson Theatre, located at the Los Angeles Music Center. The entire creative team has reunited to bring this magical story of the world’s most famous nanny to audiences across North America. Original Broadway stars, Ashley Brown and Gavin Lee, reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert, respectively. Joining Brown and Lee will be Karl Kenzler as George Banks, Megan Osterhaus as Winifred Banks, Valerie Boyle as Mrs. Brill, Andrew Keenan-Bolger as Robertson Ay, Ellen Harvey as Miss Andrew, Mary VanArsdel as The Bird Woman, and Mike O’Carroll as Admiral Boom. Performances in the role of Jane Banks will be alternated between Katie Balen and Bailey Grey. Performances in the role of Michael Banks will be alternated between Bryce Baldwin and Carter Thomas.

Mary Poppins Tickets

Ticket prices for “Mary Poppins” range from $20 to $102.  VIP/Premium Ticket Packages are also available at select performances for $135 and $150, and include premium seating and a complimentary souvenir program. Hot-Tix, priced at $20, are available and can be purchased in advance, or subject to availability, on the day of performance at the CTG box office (no checks). For the deaf community, call TDD (213) 680-4017 for tickets and information. Orders for groups of 15 or more may be placed by calling (213) 972-7231.

Tickets for “Mary Poppins” are available by calling Center Theatre Group Audience Services at (213) 972-4400, in person at the Center Theatre Group box office located the Ahmanson Theatre or online at www.CenterTheatreGroup.org.

For more information, please visit www.CenterTheatreGroup.org or www.MaryPoppinsTour.com.

Katy Perry’s MTV Unplugged CD/DVD set is officially out! You can hear see all seven of the tracks here, courtesy of www.MTV.com. The songs include “I Kissed a Girl,” “Waking Up in Vegas,” and the premiere of “Brick by Brick”. Watch them and enjoy. We love Katy!

KATY PERRY

Official: http://www.katyperry.com

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/katyperry

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/katyperry

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/katyperry

MTV Unplugged on Amazon: http://links.emi.com/katyperry_unplugged

Faux Fur and Color

Oobees believes in keeping the animals warm so these slippers are made from custom designed faux fur. Made of the softest fabrics and materials, Oobees allow wearers to experience what their creators call “pure foot pleasure.” The rubber sole, soft inside, and ultra cushy foam insole forms to your foot so that you enjoy the comfort your foot desires.

The stylish colors will catch everyone’s eyes when you step out in Amber’s Animal Instinct, combining leopard and hot pink, Taylor’s Go Go Girl mixing purple paisley and purple, G.I. Jordynn’s camouflage on pink, or one of the other available colorful creations.

All Oobies, for the young and old, are available in the three previously mentioned patterns plus: Makenna’s Pretty in Pink, Samantha’s Back in Black, Mandy’s Surfin Stripes, and Sadie’s Hubba Hubba Bubblegum for the price of $29.95.

Accessories

The flexibility and comfort of Oobees will have you wearing them everywhere you go so accessorize them with a matching overnight bag, cosmetic bag, pillow, or blanket.

Not only can you store your pajama party essentials in one of the over-sized overnight bags, but you can carry your clothes to dance or sports practice or carry your books to school. It could even be turned into a fun diaper bag.

Organize your make-up and toiletries in a matching cosmetic bag to make your travels easier or to take to your slumber party. And to ensure you stay fashionable, throw in a pillow or blanket to top it all off.

Both the overnight and cosmetic bag can be found in all the same colors as the Oobies minus Samantha’s Back in Black. The overnight bag is available for $29.95 and the cosmetic bag is $14.95.

The pillows and blanket are available in all colors except for Samantha’s Back in Black and Sadie’s Hubba Hubba Bubblegum. The pillow is available for $14.95 and the blanket for $29.95.

Oobees

Rachel Humphrey, an experienced and successful entrepreneur and business owner, first came up with the idea for Oobees while watch her daughter.  Her daughter put duct tape on the bottom of her slippers so that she could wear them outside too. Knowing that duct tape would only take her so far, Rachel and her Oobees team developed the Oobee slipper to withstand any surface for everyone to enjoy.

For more information on products and store locations, please visit their website: www.oobees.com

The Latin Recording Academy is an International, membership-based organization comprised of Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking recording artists, musicians, songwriters, producers and other creative and technical recording professionals. The organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life and cultural condition for Latin music and its makers.

Amaia Montero with her Soy Delicious gifts.

The Latin Recording Academy

This year’s talent, as always, included top musicians and notable celebrities in all genres. Past presenters and performers included Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, Gloria Estefan, Daisy Fuentes, Ricky Martin, Juanes, Juan Luis Guerra, Alejandro Sanz, Shakira, Thalia, Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee, Calle 13, David Bisbal, Los Tigres Del Norte, and Julietta Venegas.

Calle 13's Rene Perez Joglar enjoying a few of the gifts

In addition to producing the Latin GRAMMY Awards to honor excellence in the recorded arts and sciences, The Latin Recording Academy provides educational and outreach programs for the Latin music community. For more information about The Latin Recording Academy, please visit www.latingrammy.com. For breaking news and exclusive content, join the organization’s social networks as a Twitter follower at www.twitter.com/latingrammys, and a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/latingrammys.

Moroccanoil

Moroccanoil is the originator and category leader of luxury, professional argan oil-infused styling, finishing and conditioning products for hair, has become a runaway hit among fashion and beauty insiders and has generated a cult following among editorial, fashion, celebrity, film and television stylists as well as their celebrity clients. Moroccanoil’s argan oil is harvested under a free trade program, which provides substantial socio-economic support to thousands of families in the Souss-Massa region of Morocco. Revenue from this project provides income to families and helps improve the working conditions of rural women. Moroccanoil products are found in fine salons nationally. Consumers can find the nearest salon by visiting www.moroccanoil.com.

Established in 1999, Distinctive Assets provides celebrity placement, product introduction, event production and branding opportunities for a broad range of companies ranging from Fortune 500 corporations to small start-ups. Known for creating lavish gift collections and interactive gift lounges at major Hollywood events such as the GRAMMY Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards, Tony Awards, Kids’ Choice Awards and People’s Choice Awards, Distinctive Assets proudly continues its long-standing relationship with The Latin Recording Academy.

Jackie Guerra trying out some of the Moroccanoil products

Distinctive Assets

Distinctive Assets, was thrilled to produce the official Gift Bags for the ninth consecutive year as well as the official Talent Gift Lounge where they lined up an impressively eclectic array of products and services. “This is a perk that the stars, who donate their time, truly look forward to,” said Lash Fary, founder of Distinctive Assets. “It is also an ideal marketing opportunity for companies looking to place their products in the hands of worldwide trendsetters and legends within the Latin community.”

Beto Cueves poses with a client in the gift room

Talent received their gifts in two different forms. The Official Presenter & Performer Gift Bag overflowed with the customary abundance of useful, unique and upscale items such as one year bi-coastal memberships to The Sports Club/LA; a luxury vacation package from Acqualina Resort and Spa on the Beach (and ESPA at Acqualina); a day of teeth whitening from Glassman Dental Care and Star Brite; shampoo/conditioner from Mirta de Perales; The Guitar Hanger; Bonadea Drinks  aguas frescas; a resort stay at the St. Regis Punta Mita; deluxe Brazilian Heat hairstyling tools; Vicky Moreinis Swimwear; a “head to toe” beauty package from La Bella; Claudio Valenzuela CD; Hass Libre eco-friendly organic tees; body scrub from Bö Essentials; eyeliner from Pachuca Cosmetics; cushion hairbrushes from Spornette International; McDonald’s gift cards; the A-List Smile package from VIP Smiles; American Heart Association diaries; Love, Lulu Mae signature feather clips; a $6,200 fitness retreat at Live In Fitness Enterprise; and Slimware portion-conscious dinnerware.

The Official Latin GRAMMY Talent Gift Lounge presented by Moroccanoil was open backstage at Mandalay Bay throughout rehearsals to provide an interactive experience for stars where they personally selected gifts for themselves and loved ones (or their favorite charity).  The show’s talent received a $350 set of luxury professional Moroccanoil argan-oil infused hair styling, finishing and conditioning products in an exclusive white Moroccanoil Sports Carry-all; Moroccanoil’s unique lightweight formulations instantly absorb into the hair to leave all textures smoother, shinier and frizz-free. Talent also received $2,000 in spa services from HealthCare Partners Medical Spa; sunglasses from Kay Unger, Phoebe Couture and Umbro; Soy Delicious Moisturizing Candles; homeopathic remedies from Hyland’s, Inc.; WooLoot sport watches; Cha-Cha ChiC custom T-shirts; Oxygenetix foundation; an array of AXE Instinct products; Xstatic wellness wristbands; and a deluxe Vegas entertainment package for shows, restaurants, clubs and more courtesy of PR Plus.

You don’t have to be a Latin superstar or sacrifice style to do your part to save the planet . . . each of the 3,300 guests who attended the Official Latin GRAMMY After Party walked away with a $128 Love Peace and the Planet Treemendous Hair Care Starter Kit by TIGI.  Each formulation utilizes natural and organic ingredients combined with a minimal amount of synthetics to produce a product that maintains high performance expectations.

For more information please contact: www.distinctiveassests.com

Sets include: plush pet, couture “pet-carrier” purse, leash, collar, fuzzy blanket for afternoon naps, the latest edition of Pawparazzi Magazine, mini note pad with a dazzling hologram cover (perfect for passing notes and getting autographs!), and a pop-out trading card on the back of the box!

Pawparazzi Fan Club

Pawparazzi recently got a makeover and their new packaging is all the rage on the red carpet!  Kids can visit www.pawparazzi.com to meet the pets, play games, view and upload pictures to our “Caught On Camera” photo galleries, and join the Pawparazzi Fan Club for exclusive access to promotions, newsletters and information on everything Pawparazzi – all for FREE!  Coming soon…Planet Pawparazzi, a place where kids are entertained by their favorite pets, travel in a virtual world, and play and learn at Pawparazzi University!

Celebrity Pet Dress Up Sets

Because Pawparazzi® Pets have a nose for style, whatever they’re wearing is what’s PAWpular in fashion!  Pawparazzi Celebrity Pet Dress Up Sets are high-quality, detailed, show-stopping fashions that allow young girls to expand their Pawparazzi play experience by dressing their celebrity pets for adventures, experiences and appearances around the globe!  Girls will gasp when they see this tiny, tail-wagging collection of stylish clothing and glamorous accessories.  Choose from four collectible sets; Flower Fairy, Dream Birthday, Winter Holiday, and Day at the Spa.  It’s high-profile style for little pets living big lives!

Awards for Pawparazzi Pets

PTPA Media 2009 Best Product (www.ptpamedia.com)
Creative Child Magazine 2009 Seal of Excellence
Mom’s Best 2008 Award Winner (www.momsbestaward.com)
TD Monthly Magazine 2008 Top Toy Award (www.tdmonthly.com)

Travel Buddies

Bag Buddies & Travel Buddies Dog.

It’s the perfect gift for your jet-setter little one. Travel Buddies children’s neck pillows in the form of a pig, alligator, or dog comfortably support sleepy heads on planes, trains and automobiles and are perfect for naptime on the go!   Travel time is a lot more enjoyable for little ones with these irresistibly soft and cuddly travel companions.  They are adorable, fun and practical and are a great way to stimulate tactile learning…kids will take them everywhere and won’t leave them behind!  Machine Washable and Hypoallergenic, Age: 18mos. +

Awards for Travel Buddies

Dr. Toy – Best Vacation Products
Creative Child Magazine – Seal of Excellence

Bag Buddies

Bag Buddies luggage tags let kids personalize any bag, backpack or stroller for playful fun on the run!  A sturdy Velcro strap keeps this little travel companion securely fastened and a name tag is located on the belly of each animal.  Great for keeping track of children’s suitcases.  Bag buddies matchtheir Travel Buddies and make a perfect travel pair! Machine Washable and Hypoallergenic, Age: 18mos. +

To surely give your child long-lasting delight this holiday season with a Pawparazzi, Travel Buddy or Bag Buddy – visit www.pawparazzi.com for the Pawparazzi Pets and www.noodleheadfun.com for Travel and Bag Buddies.

Dangling by his feet, Magic Castle’s magician Jim Bentley performed Harry Houdini’s famed escape act, which was quite incredible! Check out this video shot by Julie Wolfson.

Magic Castle’s 100th Birthday Celebration on November 3rd was the place to be in Los Angeles. On this 100th Anniversary, magician Jim Bentley was assisted by the lovely trio of Tippi Hedren, Romi Dames and Jo Anne Worley into a vintage straightjacket (which was a show in itself!) and then hoisted 100 feet into the air by a crane.

Magic Castle's magician Jim Bentley was assisted by the lovely trio of Tippi Hedren, Romi Dames and Jo Anne Worley.

With good will and champagne flowing under the sunny California sky, Magic Castle originators Milt & Irene Larson and daughter Erika, Tippi Hedren, Jo Anne Worley, Fred Willard, Romi Dames, Rip Taylor, Rose Marie, Allison Arngrim, Kate Linder, Gloria Allred, Judy Tenuta, Dee Wallace, Ilene Graff, Luenelle, Lorielle New, Yuval David, Darcy DeMoss, Bill Dow, Jim Bentley, Andrew Goldenhersh, Christopher Rogers, Stan and Betty Freberg and many others turned out for this fun filled event!

A star-studded entourage celebrated the 100th Anniversary of Magic Castle. From Left: Jo Anne Worley, Fred Willard, magician Jim Bentley, Darcy DeMoss, Tippi Hedron, Irene Larsen, author Harrison Held and magician Andrew Goldenhersh. Photo credit Bill Dow.

Magical History

As explained to me by Magic Castle historian George W. Siegel, the Magic Castle, formerly know as Rollin Lane Mansion, was specially built back in 1909 for affluent couple Rollin and Katherine Lane. The Lane’s were originally from Wisconsin and moved to Redlands, California in 1896, until they relocated to Hollywood, where they were tremendous leaders in the growth of the Hollywood community.

Los Angeles landmark the Magic Castle

The Lanes passed away in the 1940’s with the manor changing ownership over the next several years. In 1961, it was acquired by television writer and magic-lover Milt Larsen and opened to the public as The Magic Castle, at 5 pm on January 2, 1963, gaining international acclaim ever since.

Comedy Queen Judy Tenuta gets the royal treatment from Magic Castle lifemember and retired doctor Christopher Rogers, aka The Tea Butler.

On Monday November 9th and Tuesday November 10th,  perennial favorite TV mom and performer Florence Henderson continued the celebrations with her show “All The Lives Of Me – A Musical Journey”.

Story and photos by Harrison Held.

For more info, visit: www.magiccastle.com.