Jennifer,
Feed your World Cup fever by ordering lunch-to-go from Cafe Rodeo and spending your break at The Paley Center for Media during the free live daily World Cup match telecast. For only $12, the Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive is offering a variety of boxed lunches for an 11:30 AM broadcast. Call Cafe Rodeo 310-691-7655 for delivery.
According to the World Tourism Organization, the largest industry of the current world is not automobile and petroleum but tourism. As early as the beginning of 1990s, the economic aggregate of tourism accounted for more than 10% of the world's GDP, and its number of employed people amounted to over 8% of the total global employment. Tourism has superseded automobile and petroleum as the largest industry in the world. It has increasingly become an important symbol of modern economy and social development. Happy trails to you!
I had the great pleasure of dining with Jeff Okita last Saturday, founder of Six Taste, Los Angeles food tours and culinary tasting walking tours. He has organized some great food tours of Los Angeles in which groups get to learn more about food, history and culture in some of LA's distinct neighborhoods. Affordable half day tours - all food included. http://www.sixtaste.com
This week the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce honored the best in Beverly Hills with a gala dinner at the Beverly Hilton Hotel last night. Richard Frank of Lawry's Restaurants received the Lifetime Achievement Award. He joined the family owned enterprise in 1950 and plays a major role in the family business still. Congratulations to Lawry's for their exemplary contributions to the community. And to the newly installed BHCC Board Chair, Todd Johnson! Earlier this week at a farewell reception at Brooks Brothers for Jim Jahant, General Manager and 2009/2010 Board Chair, we enjoyed the opportunity to network and connect to friends old and new. Seen here with Ihab Kharma, Corporate Design Manager for Avakian, Jenny Leeser, Boutique Manager of Catherine Malandrino and Mike Letizia, Regional Vice President for Brooks Brothers.
The Paley Center for Media on Beverly Drive in Beverly Hills joins soccer fans from around the planet to enjoy the excitement and drama of thirty-two nations competing in the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.™ The Paley Center's celebration of this global event includes live feeds of the games, screenings of cultural programming from our collection, an interactive web component to share favorite pics of your own soccer games, and a multimedia exhibit starting June 11th. Visitors who come to watch the games here will find themselves in a unique environment of African art and culture created by artist/photographer Joseph Peter. World Cup coverage will be capped by a lively viewing party with food and drinks to cheer on the last two nations in the final game on July 11. For schedules check http://www.paleycenter.org/
Inspired by the singular man of style himslef, Austin Powers, Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive is offering a one-night package for dads of all ages, starting at $279. The uber cool 'Yeah, Baby' Father's Day package was inspired by Rodeo Drive's Concours d'Elegance held from 10AM to 4PM on June 20th. Indulge in some male bonding and old fashioned ogling while you cruise the annual car show, featuring Jaguars and classic British racing cards. Vrrooom! http://www.luxehotelrodeodrive.com
Ever wish you had something to distract you while you are stuck in traffic? A new, LA based venture began presenting puppet shows to drivers sitting on highways today providing a new distraction for commuters. These dramatic performances will be shown from the back of a white pickup truck with an FM broadcaster, allowing drivers in the area to tune into a particular frequency and listen in. You’ll be able to find the Superclogger on different freeways around the city or follow the artist on Twitter at @superclogger10. Who knows, you might actually get a few moments of enjoyment out of your evening commute.
This past Saturday, MOCA opened Arshile Gorky: A Retrospective on the West Coast. This legendary Armenian-American artist, who produced some of the most significant paintings of the 20th century, was honored with a party and Armenian music for members only. The exhibit is open to the general public through September 20th. Don't miss this full scale survey of Gorky's unique life and his gripping and profoundly personal paintings. Seen here is Betrothal I, 1947. http://www.moca.org/
Brooks Brothers launched a bow tie collection just in time for the summer season. Exclusively designed and inspired their heritage of mixing vivid patterns and colors, the Social Primer founder, K. Cooper Ray, has created a playful take on this classic. The American made bow ties have been re-imagined with a traditional yet irreverent perspective. Using pure silk or cotton fabrics, the collection features reversible styles that create many ways to wear the bow tie. Last evening’s party proved just that. The waiters, bartenders and many of the guests dandied about in seersucker and tie. It would have made my handsome grandfather proud. And K. Cooper Ray was delightful! Seen here with one of my favorite Brooks Brothers fashionistas.
Madame Chocolate has created designer chocolate high heels! Inspired by Christian Lauboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Valentino and Chanel, all shoes are hand made. To place orders for that Sex in the City chocolate indulgence, call 310-247-9990 or stop by their shop on Canon Drive in Beverly Hills. http://www.madamechocolate.com/
Vertu, the luxury mobile phone company, opened just two weeks ago at Two Rodeo Drive. The mobiles are made from materials such as gold, sapphire (for the mobile screen), rubies (for the bearings) and fine leather. Each mobile phone is hand-made in the company's factory in Church Crookham, Hampshire, England. The most expensive model Vertu has ever made is the Signature Cobra, at $310,000. However, the modest Constellation model starts at $5,100 in this gorgeous boutique that's anything but. Seen here with Boutique Manager, Todd Martens. http://www.vertu.com/
The theme of this year's annual historical preservation celebration in West Hollywood was "Iconic Billboards of the Sunset Strip". Unlike other large metropolitan centers. Los Angeles has a playful inventive side to the landscape. Due in part to the way it has developed, spreading out horizontally, tall buildings are often used to catch the attention of drivers passing by. Those attention getting devices such as billboards, murals, neon signs ornate facades and three dimensional figures have become part and parcel of our urban identity. Ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous, photographer, Robert Landau, has been documenting this commercial landscape since the mid-70's. Just drive north on La Cienega Blvd from LAX and count how many signs you encounter! Check out his website http://robertlandau.com/
Jennifer:
Mont Blanc suggests giving that special graduate a state-of-the-art timepiece for graduation, so they are offering complimentary engraving. Located across the street from Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive, Mont Blanc offers a wide variety of beautifully crafted watches and graduation seems the ideal moment to honor that occassion. Congratulations, graduates! http://www.montblanc.com/
Perhaps it's our own dark disillusioned times, but it certainly seems that the film noir genre has withstood the test of time in its own unique way. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences thinks so and had organized fifteen film noir classics from the 1940's, all of which were nominated in the writing categories. This summer-long series is introduced by contemporary screenwriters whose own work reflects the film noir style. Tonight's feature was Laura and in July we are introduced to Double Indemnity. Through August 30th. http://www.oscars.org or visiting the box office on Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills.
For his seventh solo exhibition in Los Angeles, Arne Svenson, presented books and prints scanned from his idiosyncratic collections of newspaper clippings, magazine photos, paper towels, found diaries and books from his youth. Referring to the 6 books, approximately two by three feet, containing anywhere from 55 to 200 pages, Svenson states, "The stories are up to the viewer to create - I have provided the raw material, with a prompt here and there, but the rest is up to the reader of these books." For the many years I've known Arne, I am always amazed at his fascination and curiosity with the ordinary, which is of course why we adore him. Seen here with his books after a journalist took his photo. www.western-project.com
Effective May 20, international travelers to the US no longer have to fill out the in-flight arrival/departure form (Form I-94W). The Visa Waiver Program, implemented by the Department of Homeland Security will streamline the entry process and increase the processing speed for millions of guests.
We were privileged to have Lyn Keep and her entourage of travel consultants from Show Group Travel Australia visiting us this week. Of course, Lyn brought me some of those scrumptious Tim Tams. What would we do without that mid-morning sugar rush from our friends Down Under? As for the famous crystal necklace, she brought that with her too. When I saw it on her in Sydney, I just had to have one too. It was worth every 'pineapple'.
Simon Doonan, the creative director for Barneys New York, was seen in our lobby recently. Since joining the Barneys staff in 1986 as a window dresser, Doonan, has written four books, the most recent entitled Eccentric Glamour, and has made appearances on VH1 and America's Next Top Model. Interviewed for an article in the New York Daily News, he said, "There are two horribly worrying trends! Celebrities are becoming so gun-shy that there is no diversity, no sense of fun on the red carpet. There's no experimentation - which is incredibly important to fashion." Bravo!
Whether serving as a soundtrack for a comedic story starring Mickey Mouse, a stylized parody like "What's Opera Doc?" with Bugs Bunny or the symphonic inspiration for the visual storytelling of "Fantasia", classic music has had a strong influence on animated films since they were first synchronized. In conjunction with the citywide "Ring Festival LA", the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, offered an evening of animation and classical music this past Friday. Q: What is the most used piece of music for animated shorts? A: Hungarian Rhapsody no. 2 by Liszt. And I would have guessed, William Tell Overture. The Academy's Chuck Jones exhibition, with over 150 pieces, can be seen in the Grand Lobby Gallery through August 22. 8949 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills
Los Angeles-based Australians in Film (AiF), the preeminent organization for expatriate Australians in the entertainment industry held its sixth annual Breakthrough Awards on May 13, 2010, at Thompson Beverly Hills and the second recipient of the AiF Heath Ledger Scholarship given to a promising actor was revealed on the same star-studded night. Actors Chris Hemsworth (Thor) and Ryan Kwanten (True Blood) were honored for their breakthrough work in international roles, and Bella Heathcote is the second recipient of the Heath Ledger Scholarship. Guests included Colin Farrell who introduced Bella, and actors Alex O'Loughlin, Radha Mitchell, Nora Zehetner, Stephanie Jacobsen. Heath Ledger's mother Sally Bell and sister Kate Ledger were there, although unable to attend Sir Anthony Hopkins send a video message to Chris. Guests enjoyed Moet & Chandon Champagne and at the end of the night, In n Out Burgers. Seen here with Jennifer North and Damian Trewhella.
May 8 - 16 is National Tourism Week! Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel provides a superior level of personalized service and comfort plus all the amenities and services of a world-class property amid the opulent and breathtaking city. We stand ready to welcome you [tourists] home!
Neiman Marcus and Zeta Graff, Jewelry Editor at Genlux Magazine, welcomed Candace Bushnell as she signed copies of her latest book, The Carrie Diaries, on Tuesday evening. Who knew Carrie had a life before Sex in the City? Seen here with Olimpia Garabet, Louis Vuitton, Andrea Aal, Genlux and Barbara Simonian, Westime.
Genlux Magazine and Britweek "Designer of the Year Award" honored Matthew Williamson this year at their annual fashion show. Held at Smashbox Studios in West Hollywood, the special fashion show included the fresh, bejeweled and floral designs from Williamson's Spring collection along with a special tribute by Chic Little D to Alexander McQueen. Dress for Success was the beneficiary of the silent auction and interview-appropriate clothing donation drive. It was feel good evening all the way around. Seen here with Joanne Nishi, Eres Boutique Manager and Janine Masaki, Etro Boutique Manager.
President of Judith Leiber and Gail Bershon with Mary Gleason hosted a cocktail, shopping and raffle benefiting The Los Angeles Orthopedic Hospital last night. Leiber has charitably agreed to donate 20% of all sales through May 10th to the hospital. One of those sparkling little cocktail bags would make the perfect Mother's Day gift, helping mothers, children and many more in need. Located at 220 North Rodeo Drive, just steps from Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel. Seen here with Laurie Patruno, Damiani Boutique Manager.
I've been listening to audio books for about a year now and picked up The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo on Saturday. And now you can't get me out of my car! Can't wait to see the movie, too. Listening to books has helped me through some of the worst LA traffic. My car audio system was broken for about two weeks and I almost went stir crazy. My Beverly Hills Library card gets as much use as my VISA. Rent one - soon.
The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce West held a cocktail reception this evening for the newest chamber member, Antonio Temporini, Senior Vice President, Alitalia North America. We celebrated the re-launch of of Alitalia's non-stop Los Angeles - Rome service, beginning June 3, 2010. Two lucky guests won two economy tickets to Italy. Unfortunately, it wasn't my business card they chose but we had a great time anyway. Seen here with Amy Cox, Lynda Simonetti and Anna Gargioni.
In a series sponsored by The Paley Center for Media, The Opportunity Agenda and Unbound Philanthropy, film & media critic Emanual Levy, moderated a panel of actors, producers, directors and writers for a dialogue about the media's impact on the issue of immigration. Clips were shown from popular television series including Ugly Betty, ER and Modern Family. Both panelists and audience members grappled with the question of how media is informing and forming opinions on immigration in America today. It was simply coincidental that the evening's program came days after Arizona's controversial new law on immigration so Mr. Levy refocused the group for a fascinating discussion. The reception held after the presentation was held in The Center's lobby, surrounded by a gallery exhibit entitled, The Black List Project, which is on display through May 30th. Seen here with Emanual Levy. http://www.paleycenter.org/
Lisa Eisner's latest exhibit opened this past Saturday at M+B Galley in West Hollywood, on the edge of the Avenues of Art and Design. Psychonaut is a kaleidoscopic adventure into a vibrant word of seeming randomness, one of a kind assemblages without editions and without using Photoshop. It seems like her most personal work to date, inspired by geodesic domes, nature, birds and Native American culture. Her work can be viewed through June 5th.
Today the Pacific Design Center dedicated the entire day to the Influence of British Design which included a keynote panel, book signings, British Couture courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue, photo exhibit by Tim Street-Porter and cocktail reception for British portraitist, Sacha Newley. I walked through the Blue Building and enjoyed tea time! The multiple displays can be viewed through May 7th. The PDC is located only 2 miles from Luxe Hotel Rodeo Drive and is open to the public.
Tonight I had dinner with Lisa Sjoland of VisitBritain, who is charming, philosophical and interested in everything. As the evening began, I commented on her terrific lip color at which time she pulled the tube from her handbag. As it happened both of us needed glasses to read the name of the color at the base of the tube. So instead we twisted it up to observe the creamy rose tone. Interesting how different the shape if her tube was from mine. According to a number of websites, lipstick wearers have one of the following shapes and there are personality traits that go along with each or so they say. Go ahead and do a google search!
So we're coming to the close of Grilled Cheese Month. This girl from Wisconsin is boo hoo'ing. If you're into the melted gooey stuff, Cafe Rodeo has a well priced grilled Swiss cheese sandwich accompanied by the perfect tomato soup on our menu daily. Or for that last kick, attend the Grilled Cheese Invitational. On April 24, dive into mountains of Tillamook and other grilled cheese samples, participate in amateur and professional grilling competitions wash it all down with beer from the beer garden and much more. $10 presale/$15 door. Los Angeles Center Studios, 1201 W. 5th St., downtown http://grilledcheeseinvitational.com/
Gucci's leather workers have been on a world tour for most of 2010, but they're finally coming to America. The artisans are taking up residence in their 'Artisan Corners' within individual Gucci stores. The corners include custom work tables, sewing machines, leather stands and metal tools. The artists were introduced tonight with a VIP event at their Rodeo Drive boutique. It was a rare chance to see how a $1000 handbag is built, from the initial stages including mood boards and sketches to the finished product. I was fascinated to learn that the made-to-order handbag can include your initials embossed on the bag, or a commemorative plaque inside. From April 22 - 24, they'll be building custom leather goods emphasizing the classics as part of their Forever Now campaign. What a great way to draw attention to their long family history of leather goods. 347 North Rodeo Drive, 90210 / 310.278.3451
This evening, Faconnable on Wilshire Blvd, hosted an event with Coachart. 15% of the evening's sale went to support CoachArt’s mission to improve the quality of life for children and adolescents with chronic and life-threatening illnesses by providing free, personal lessons in the art and athletics. It was so satisfying to see the support for this cause - thank you to Faconnable for making this possible.
Today is your day to be 'green'. Try and do just one thing! To celebrate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, The Paley Center in Beverly Hills is featuring programs about ecology and the environment including The Simpsons, Firing Line, The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Captain Planet Bill Moyers’ Journal, and Rocko’s Modern Life. All day starting @ 12:30 p.m. http://www.paleycenter.org/
This evening I was a guest of the Israel Consulate at grand opening of the Saban Theater for "Promised Wonderland". It was a very special night honoring Israel's 62nd Independence Anniversary. The program began with the story of Israel's history woven with dance performances, singing, stand-up comedy and even some rap. I learned a lot and was thoroughly entertained.
'Thank You' goes to my dear friends who took me out for red velvet pancakes on Sunday as an extension of my birthday week. The scene on Larchmont Blvd, a quaint pocket of LA, neighborly in the best possible way, was busy because of a farmer's market on the north end of the block. The Larchmont Bungalow's specialty is Red Velvet Pancakes, a generous serving which we split by three. The buttermilk recipe is served with whipped cream cheese, caramelized walnuts and maple syrup. Forget the syrup, chef Denvile Christie. They were delicious; I have a red tongue to prove it.
It's National Library Week through April 17th! While I was in Memphis this past weekend, the Beverly Hills Library had left me a message requesting that I return discs 4 and 5 of a Carol Joyce Oates audio book. Oops - I left them in my portable CD player. As punishment, I paid my fines with a non-perishable food donation for the Westside Food Bank in association with the BH Library. * Truthfully, since I returned the items, I didn't have to pay, but I thought it was such a good idea, I did anyway.
Hi Wendy,
I just wanted to say “thank you” for the wonderful accommodations at your beautiful hotel! I really enjoyed my stay and the staff made it better! Everyone from the bell staff, front desk, doorman, housekeeping and the bartenders!! They were all very pleasant and said my name “Ms. White” every time they made contact with me.
Just returned from a long weekend in Memphis, TN, with my dear friends and family. It was a reunion of sorts and we celebrated March and April birthdays. Of course we had to visit Graceland as this is mandatory on the Memphis sight seeing tour. Along with Beale Street, Civil Rights Museum and The Arcade for breakfast where Elvis was introduced to grilled peanut butter and banana sandwiches. Yes - they still have them on the menu. And yes - I tried one. Seen here is my niece, Maclaren, playing with a souvenir.
This past Saturday, I stopped by the MOCA at Pacific Design Center to view the latest exhibit, Las Vegas Studio: Images from the Archives of Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown. In 1968, a group or architects together with students from Yale University, made the city of Las Vegas the object of their study. The exhibit includes over 80 photographs and a selection of films short during the authors' research that were a crucial aspect of their architectural study. They provided a glimpse into 1968 - 1972 that were surprisingly ordinary, ugly and spectacular at the same time. Free to the public and on view until June 20th.
This is your last change to purchase some extraordinary chocolate items for that special bunny in your life. Madame Chocolate on Canon Drive is open all day today. Seen here accessing the confections.
Americans eat more than 700 million Marshmallow Peeps per year. More than 4.2 million Peeps are made in the USA every single day. Now that's a lot of Peeps! My mother used to eat them straight out of the box. Growing up we would find small stashes of them in cupboards and closets. Can you resist?
