Champagne intensives and tastings

Classes are actually taught by their President and CEO, Nicolas Krafft, who happens to be a bit of a wine aficionado.

From silver to Champagne, Christofle is taking luxury to new heights with tastings and demonstrations, and classes teaching the art of Sabrage. They are offering the classes via a new website http://www.champagnesabrage.com/ where clients have the opportunity, not only to learn the history and evolution of Champagne, but also the art of Sabrage – the celebrated and dramatic technique used to open a bottle of sparkling wine with a saber.  There are three classes offered, ranging from the moderately-priced introductions to sabrage to more exclusive in-depth seminars.  Classes are offered wherever there are Christofle store locations; including Christofle - Beverly Hills. 

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy,  Thank you so much for always remembering my birthday.  It is such a nice gesture to receive something informative about the day I was born.  Again thank you. Thank you, Susan [Pacific Design Center]

Hollywood Bowl

It's August already and this is the first time that I've attended the Hollywood Bowl this season.  There was such an fabulous ensemble cast lined up for the musical, Hairspray, that I got on the phone and gathered together a small group.  We got there early and dined in our row; new chairs with cup-holders not the old wooden benches.  We were seated in the center of section G, enjoying the cool evening air and the strong performances from members of the Broadway cast.  "You Can't Stop the Beat."

Seen in the Luxe lobby

I had the great pleasure of dining today with Miss "Justine" Pasek, crowned Miss Universe 2002.  She is a charming ambassador for her country of Panama.  In addition, Justine brings media attend and public awareness to the FAO programs there and collaborates with NGO's who provided needs services in rural areas and Fundacion Tierra Nueva.  I was honored to join her for lunch in Cafe Rodeo.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Good day Wendy thank you so much for the wishes and thoughts.  Greatly appreciated and very interesting. Thank you again.  Best Regards,  Nkonzo "Fred" Mthembu  [R. A. Travel, Inc.]

Convergence

The Sundaram Tagore Gallery in Beverly Hills has mounted a very interesting group show which will be available to the public through this weekend.  The star of the show is Kim Joon's "Fragile-Villeroy & Boch" series.  Immediately next door is Diane Kron Chocolate boutique.  Two great reasons to walk over to the corner of Little Santa Monica Blvd and Camden Drive.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Dear Wendy,  Thank you so much for the lovely birthday card.  Especially love the insert, one of my favourite colours, who knew?  Warmest,  Marsha [McLaughlin,Travel Associate,Tzell Travel Group]

A Contented Guest

Dear Wendy,  How are you? I’m glad that we stayed at the Luxe hotel and really enjoyed my visit. Thanks again for everything!! How is the Mustique? Do you love it? It’s one of my favorites.  I wanted to say hi and wish you well. I enjoyed your inspirational thoughts on your email. I hope you’re enjoying your Summer to the fullest!  Very Best,  Jenny [Smith, Makeup Stylist / NARS Cosmetics]

National Night Out

Beverly Hills' National Night Out celebration will include gourmet food trucks, Police and Fire displays and activities for children tomorrow evening from 5 - 8 p.m.  Hosted by Larry and Shawn King, the block party will be held on Hillcrest Drive between Sunset and Elevado.  The food trucks include The Grilled Cheese Truck, Great Balls on Tires and The Sweets Truck.  Earthquake simulator Safe-T-Proof's Quake Cottage will also be set-up to educate local residents.

Thought for the day

Energy and persistence conquer all thing. - Ben Franklin

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Seen here leaving the Academy with friend, Jean Dickinson.  We were among a crowd of women wearing little black dresses paying homage to  Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's.  Check their website for future screenings, www.oscars.org

Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

Tonight in Beverly Hills: "Breakfast at Tiffany's” 50th anniversary screening at The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. With her giant sunglasses, Givenchy dress, pearls and cigarette holder, Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly set the stage for the glamour of the 1960’s and ushered in a new notion of femininity. Suggested: martinis at Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel, just steps from Tiffany’s. Screening: 7:30 PM

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,  Thanks for the birthday card and wishes. Wow, another year. See you in Denver at GBTA?  Best,   Shirley [Scott, Hotel Program Director, JTB Corporate Headquarters]

Chocolate Truffles demonstration

Chef James Jung performed magic with deep rich chocolate last evening for a group of fascinated travel writers.  He moved between fragrant bowls of chocolate, ice baths and parchment paper as if he does this every day.  Oh deliciousness!  James does do this every day!   Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel serves these delectable bites to our guests at turn down.  They can also be found on Cafe Rodeo's dinner menu.  Chocolate addicts beware. 

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Dear Wendy,  Thank you very much for the birthday card. It was very thoughtful of you. I hope you are doing well and enjoying the summer. Please let me know when you will be in New York next. Take care.
Best regards,  Maria  [Manager, Hotel Sales & Marketing, Ultramar Travel Management ]

Life's a Game

Seen here with Maria Bowers, sales manager Luxe Sunset, Andres Rivera and Melissa McKendall in reservations

WHERE magazine extended an invitation to the newly opened VODVIL for a game night party. VODVIL is a sexy and smart new restaurant and entertainment venue offering a game night for grown-ups. We had so much fun.  We were challenged with word games, trivia and 'name that tune',  They're saving charades and celebrity for another night.  If you went there alone, you'd be part of a group within minutes.  They throw a game night party, every night with lots of recognizable homey bites for the snack lover in you too.  http://www.vodvil-la.com/

A Contented Guest

Hi Carol:  Great to meet you on the plane! The Hotel is just gorgeous, perfect. I've mentioned Wendy and she should be back in Monday so I will catch her for some tips for the week. The other staff are quite helpful also.  I hope you got home safely and can unwind at home now after a great Boston trip. It was such a pleasure to meet you!!!  Ciao,  Jules x

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy
Thank you so much for your Birthday card. I love it. The insert is so interesting and blue is my favorite color. You really brightened my day.  Best always, Louise [Shohet , BSC Travel/Affiliate ALTOUR ]

Red Rock Canyon

Even though I spent the weekend in Las Vegas, all lights, crowds, bells and flash, I made some quiet time to visit Red Rock Canyon on Sunday morning.  The scenic 13-mile drive offers spectacular views.  If it hadn't been so hot, we would have done a more strenuous climb.  Ahhhh, just breathe and relax.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Wendy,  Thank you for the Birthday Greetings and the Opaline. Having a rough day and this arrived on my desk just at the right moment and added much needed good energy.  Best, David  [Travel Consultant, Ovation Corporate Travel / Lawyers Travel]

Thought for the day

Peace is not a relationship of nations. It is a condition of mind brought about by a serenity of soul. Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is also a state of mind. Lasting peace can come only to peaceful people.
-Jawaharlal Nehru

Maybach Eyewear ahead of the pack

Seen here in the exclusive eyewear are Simon Babouchian and Teresa Clemens.

Located around the corner from Luxe Rodeo, Optometrix will be offering an exclusive viewing of Maybach Eyewear today and tomorrow from 1 - 6 PM.  They are proud to be carrying this fashionable new line for men and women.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Dear Wendy,  Thank you for the birthday card and note on the day you were born.  Hope to be in touch soon.  Have a great weekend.  Best,  Carmel  [Protravel International]

Delta does Beverly Hills

Yesterday, Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel was proud to be a part of a Delta Air Lines familiarization trip to Beverly Hills for 8 lucky travel agents from BCD Travel and HRG Travel.  The Australian based agents were treated to Business Class tickets on the new Delta route from Sydney to Los Angeles, non-stop.  we were gathered here on Beverly Drive after lunch and a guided walking tour of Beverly Hills!  The city is not only known worldwide for its grand mansions and chic shops along Rodeo Drive, but also for its multitude of art and architecture, spas, salons and walkable drives.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy, Thank you so much for my birthday card, you are so sweet.  Have a fantastic week and thanks again. Kindest regards, Tina [General Manager , Spencer Travel, Australia]

Happy

At the local Fourth of July parade and fair, I won a goldfish by tossing a ping pong ball into a glass bowl.  It was sheer luck that I did it on the first lob.  My girlfriend asked me what I was going to call my tiny orange prize, swimming around in a plastic bag, and I replied, "Goldie".  For which I received an immediate rebuke, "Goldie?  As in goldfish?"  So I came up with "Happy" as in Happy Fourth of July.  As expected, Happiness is fleeting.

Tweet Salute

Tweet's Fifth Anniversary

July 15th is the fifth anniversary of the first public tweet, a milestone that may warm your heart or make you steam.  In five years, about 260 million people, including 13% of on-line Americans, have told the world about their dog, their dinner and a few other unmentionable things.  This is after all Luxe where we maintain very high standards.  Each week more than 1 billion tweets are sent which can be a bit overwhelming.  Even hotels like ours have joined the ranks! https://twitter.com/#!/LuxeRodeoHotel

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Last evening, our friend Gail Bershon added another candle on her birthday cake in the most spectacular way.  Her dear friend, Deborah Murry, hosted an event at Yuroz' Private Studio in downtown Los Angeles, greeting each guest with a glass of champagne and good cheer. Yuroz is an international artist who among his many accomplishments has created two murals for the United Nations.  Currently they can be seen in the artist's studio and as Gail's guests we were able to learn about their evolution.  Yuroz was a delightful host, providing Gail's admirers and friends a chance to intimately view his many works.  We all wish this Bastille Day baby a very happy birthday! http://www.yurozart.com/

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,  Thank you soooo much for the birthday card. You made my day . Anita [Kayekjian,Travel Counselor / Montrose Travel]

It's all in the cards

Last evening, I enjoyed an unusual night of theater by accepting an invitation to see The Expert at the Card Table, performed at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica.  Directed by Neil Patrick Harris, the play was written and performed by sleight-of-hand master Guy Hollingworth.  As an adaptation of a notorious anonymously penned 1902 how-to-book of card tricks, the story moved forward with a bit of narration, a bit of card play and a good dose of trickery.  http://www.thebroadstage.com/

A Happy Client

Hi Wendy,  Lovely to hear from you and thanks for showing me around the property & lunch.  Hotel is adorable.  Hope your well and looking forward to catching up again sometime next year.  Regards, Brianna [VisitCalifornia.co.uk]

A Contented Guest

Had a helluva time w/Mary, Arthur, Lidya & Jessica (original Dior crew) a your Bar! Goodpm....xx janine

Facination

This amazing floral stylist, Vanessa Baran, whom I've known for two decades, first as a guest in a past-life-hotel and then in Elegant Bride, events designer and in films, has more than a bee in her bonnet.  She has now branched into "fascinators".  Typically the province of the English, these head coverings will make you swoon. Perfect for the Kentucky Derby, a polo match or other occasion.  Seen here is her sister, Victoria, wearing a fascinator that Vanessa made for a wedding this weekend.  For the must-have accessory, www.vanessabaran.com

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy!
I loved your card and the astrology page you sent!  What an amazing guy and sweet spirit! Hope to see you soon!  Lots of love, Debbie  http://www.debbiesiebers.com/

Gray Zone

Always a powerful voice for children, Daphna Ziman, has authored a new book entitled The Gray Zone which looks at at-risk ad foster youth.  Daphna offered candid stories of girls who often faced and overcame tragic circumstances. The novel was warmly received by friends of the author at the home of Evelyn Bernstein.  Thank you, Daphna, for your vigilance.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Thank you for your birthday message for Alan and I. I had a great day and I am sure Alan will next week. We will see you on 27th of this month. It will be nice to get away from this cold weather. We have had a very cold winter this year, which is unusual for Melbourne.  Looking forward to seeing everyone soon.
Lv Di xx

Everyone's Tweeting

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy, Thank you so much for the birthday card, what great wording love it, yes definitely accessories and shoes!!  Hope you are keeping well and busy. Business is quite tough at the moment but I have been kept busy with a Large inbound group some from USA but mostly from Europe. They depart around 4th July so I can just about have a rest now. Best to you, Thalia  [Carbone Travel, Australia]

Small town celebrating

Even the statue of the Smiley Brothers was decorated [secretly].   No one knows their costume designer.  The brothers surprise residents throughout the year with their festive holiday garb.

I just returned from a weekend in Redlands where I attended the local Fourth of July parade and fireworks. The park was full of picnickers and children dressed in various versions of red, white and blue.  There was a country western band performing and a marching band warming up, while local the Kiwanis Club and Rotary Club hawked sausages, kettle corn and lemonade.  There were Democrats, Republicans and Tea Partiers; everyone fanning themselves from the oppressive heat or seeking the shade of an oak.  Happy Independence Day!

Happy Fourth of July Weekend

Eye of the Beholder

LOVE make-up for fashion show

The "Beauty Culture" which opened a few weeks ago, is a fascinating focus on the 'cult'ure of our obsession with beauty.  It includes supermodels, plastic surgery and toddler beauty pageants as seen through the lens of more than 100 fashion photographers and documentary photographers. There's a 30 minute documentary which ensures a critical discussion with your friends after you've left as well as 500 photos, including the Hollywood Glamour Machine.  "To age or not to age?" - that is really the question.  Annenberg Space for Photography in Century City through November 17th

Genlux Popup Party

Seen here with Jenny Bernheim, Film Fashion and Jenny Leeser, Babakul at Fred Segal.

Hosted by cover model, Angie Harmon and photographer, Marc Baptiste, Genlux held a PopUp party at the Chateau Marmont's Bar Marmont last night.  Within a day of sending the invitation, Genlux solicited an enthusiastic crowd of sleak and sexy fans.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

W, Thanks so much for always remembering!  Love my horoscope! Last one I carried around till it wore out!  And will see you for a drink too!  Merci,  Pamela [Richmond, Travel Consultant, Cassis Travel Services, Inc.]

Art of Chocolate Perfected

More than 70 years ago in a small town in the Swiss Alps, a master chocolate maker embarked on a path that would make him one of the world’s greatest chocolatiers.   Teuscher (pronounced toy-sure) prepares luxury chocolates each week which are flown immediately to their stores throughout the world.  Look for the finest cocoa, marzipan, fruits, nuts and surprisingly cheerful packaging.  Located just a block west of Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel, these members of the wedding party are ready to celebrate any occasion. http://www.teuscher-bh.com/

Gran Fondo

Yesterday, Sunday June 26th, Gran Fondo Colnago Los Angeles made its debut, departing from Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Gran Fondo means "Big Ride" in Italian. The Gran Fondo USA events are modeled after the long distance, mass-participation cycling rides - not races - which are immensely popular in Italy. Participation was open to recreational and competitive amateur cyclists, and tens of thousands of riders of all abilities participate. Just like in Italy, each Gran Fondo USA event includes a mass start, and three challenging routes: a 100 mile length named the Gran Fondo, a 50 mile Medio Fondo and a 25 mile Piccolo Fondo. They rode all the way up to Malibu and returned to Beverly Hills where they were greeted enthusiastically at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.  It was a Gran Success.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,  How are you? I hope you are doing well. Thanks for the card. I think all of the characteristics are true except the part about how I should be a nun for my occupation. That is funny to me.  It was so cute and sweet of you. Thank you very much.  Hope to see you soon!  Best regards. Laurie [Bentley, All Star Travel Group]

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

Life's perfect moments are now.  Thank you, Susie Dobson, for including me in your Sunday brunch.

Buon Compleanno

Seen here is President of the Rodeo Drive Committe, James Jahant, flanked by Consul General Nicola Faganello and Roberto Cicutto

Italian Trade Commission and the Consul General of Italy celebrated the 150th Anniversary of the Unification of Italy on the Via at Two Rodeo with Prosecco and cake.  The special birthday presentation was created by renowned Italian chef, Celestino Drago.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

appreciate your good wishes. thank you for remembering [my birthday]  hope all is well with you.  best,
Joanne [Protravel International Inc.]

Chinese delegation

Yesterday a large delegation of graduate students from UCLA and Stanford visited Beverly Hills.  Mayor Barry Brucker welcome the group in the City Council Chambers where they gave him an official plaque and happily gathered for a photo, after which they were enthusiastically going shopping on Rodeo Drive.  Welcome our friends from Shanghai!

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

re: birthday card
Hi Wendy,  That was so great, love the cut out about Cancers...Thank for your thoughtfulness...Kindest regards, Susan [Director of Corporate Travel, Travelstore Inc]

Arrivederci

Seen here Consul General Nicola Faganello and evening's host, CEO of Sundek Surfwear, Agostino Magni

Last evening, Sundek USA and Italy-America Chamber of Commerce hosted a 'surprise good-bye' party for Consul General Nicola Faganello with a California Style backyard celebration.  We shared an evening of Italian appetizers and sunshine in the outside patio of Sundek's Venice showroom.  The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce West is particularly grateful to Hon. Nicola Faganello for his continuous support and participation in all our activities, for his tireless work and dedication in bringing Italy closer to Southern California and in promoting the IACCWin every occasion.  Arrivederci and best wishes from all of us!

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Thank you so much for my card and horoscope…we must get together for lunch soon. Have a good day…. Jennifer [Berg Mill Supply Co.]

Thought for the day

“Style is beyond what you look like. It’s small gestures, like being gracious to waitstaff, that set you apart.” - Conrad Lauren

A Contented Guest

Wendy,  I wanted to thank you for my upgrade this past stay. The Penthouse level is gorgeous and the view was breathtaking! The fact that both Gail and I were on that level was perfect as not only are we co-workers but also great friends. We really enjoyed our private deck and got such a kick out of being the only two up there.  As I said before you continue to impress and now with the Penthouse experience you are one of my favorite people ;-)  Jen  [Sales Representative, Tyler Technologies, Inc.]

Lemonade just right

Everybody knows how to make lemondate, right?  Squeeze some lemons, add sugar and water.  But Chef James Jung makes lemonade extra special with fresh squeezed watermelon.  Try some today .  It's the first day of summer after all.  [Only vodka might make it better!]

In gratitude

This evening the Rodeo Drive Committee held a reception for Tom Blumenthal, Geary's Beverly Hills, in order to officially thank him for his years of service.  We acknowledged the many events including the Walk of Style, Snow 90210 and Fashions Night Out which took place during his presidency.  We are grateful to Tom for his tireless support and his persuasive leadership.  Seen here while Vice Mayor Brien presents an award from the City.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,  I think I forgot to thank you for the card for my big b-day! You always remember! xoxo Gen
[Genevieve Morrill, http://www.bookswithfeet.org/]

Happy Father's Day!

Dad, you're soomeone to look up to no matter how tall I've grown. - Author Unknown

#11 Cafe Rodeo for dessert

Buon Compleanno to Italy for 150 years from Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills! There is so much to do today for the Rodeo Drive Concours kicking of a weeklong celebration called La Dolce Vita Beverly Hills.  Here's our top 10 list.
#1. The Gondola: Ok, we know it's a car show, but how you can turn down an actual Venetian Gondola that's 38 feet long? 1 boat, over 100 spectacular Italian cars, and the best Italian motorcycles and bicycles. #2. See the Italian balancing act of a 1967 275 GTB Ferrari on 4 Italian Richard Ginori tea cups. Italian desserts at Gearys from 2 to 4 pm. 351 North Beverly Drive. On display until June 23.
#3. FIAT Ride; Drive around the Golden Triangle. The 2011 Honored Marque, takes over the entire 200 block of Rodeo with 14 FIAT 500s in a kaleidoscope of colors.
#4. Ferrari FF: Be one of the first to see this beauty by the most legendary of Italian car makers.
#5. The infiorata: an ages old Italian tradition of painting with flower petals
#6. Gioiello: continues through June 26 with a variety of special events celebrating Italian jewelry craftsmanship and design.
#7. "Great Balls on Tires" – it’s a food truck with the best meat balls EVER on Brighton Way.
#8. See the winning cars, 12 noon at the intersection of Brighton Way and Rodeo.
#9. The Music. A day of opera, arias, La Dolce Vita era music from the 60s.
#10. Stop by the Gran Fondo booth and learn about this Italian-themed bike ride leaving Rodeo on June 26th and Malibu and back.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy, Thank you for the birthday card.  Lets keep in touch soon.  Best Regards,  Kyron Davis [Executive Vice President, Raju Rasiah, Inc., Beverly Hills]

Business Excellence

Recently, Beverly Hills honored their own by awarding 'Business Excellence' commendations.  These visionaries of business contribute to the general community and provide outstanding service.  We would like to say congratulations to two of our good neighbors and supporters, The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills and Sprinkles Cupcakes.  Thank you for your innovative retail spirit!

Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance - June 19

This year's event will celebrate "The Art of Italian Motoring" and will feature more than 125 vintage Italian cars on display. As the honored marque, FIAT will prominently feature the 2012 Fiat 500, which is deeply rooted in Italian design and style. FIAT will display 14 "Cinquecento" vehicles in all 14 exterior colors, as well as the vintage Fiat 500. Additionally, the FIAT brand will offer ride-and-drive opportunities for guests in the 2012 Fiat 500!  Get up and go-power!

Vhernier and APJ

Last evening, Vhernier Boutique on Brighton Way held a glamorous soiree to launch a custom-made silver and gold ring for their cherished charity, Artists for Peace and Justice.  Their goal is to sell 1,000 rings and make a considerable donation of $700 per ring.  With their help, APJ is providing free secondary education, nutritious meals, medical care and job opportunities to foster the future leaders of Haiti.  http://www.apjnow.org/ Seen here is the exclusive ring, made specifically for the right hand as it angles in architectural perfection toward the pinkie finger. Available while supplies last.

Thought for the day

The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time. - Abraham Lincoln

Congratulations graduate

Congratulations to all the high school and college graduates this June.  Best wishes from all of us at Luxe.  “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own.  And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go.”  Dr. Seuss quote (American Writer and Cartoonist best known for his collection of children's books. 1904-1991)

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hi Wendy,  Thank you for the fun birthday card. I loved it. Hope to see you when you come back to NY, or I'll be speaking to you when any of my clients got over to LAX.  Take care.   Candy Castro [Protravel International Inc.]

A Contented Guest

Hi Wendy and Trish,
Just wanted to say thank you regarding my recent stay at the Luxe Rodeo drive. I just got back home yesterday and enjoyed my 3 nights at the hotel. The staff were all great especially Charles and Jasmine in the cafe and the hotel itself was great overall. I’ll be recommending the property to others going to LA.  Thanks again.   Miriam [Consulting Analyst – Advisory Services JAPA , American Express Business Travel]

Rango

I think I saw Rango at Joshua Tree.  Or was it a mirage? 

Joshua Tree National Park

Straight out of a Dr. Seuss book, the Joshua Tree is a prickly oddity.  As we approached Twenty Nine Palms, CA, more and more trees dotted the landscape and during our hikes along the park's nature trails we gained greater appreciation for the tree's importance to the Mojave Desert's ecosystem.  At the end of the day we relaxed at the local 29 Palms Inn.  It was a perfect [bit rustic] getaway from Los Angeles.  The park commemorates it's 75th anniversary as part of our national park system, http://www.jtnp75.org/.

Another Candle on the Birthday Cake

Hola! All is fantastic here. I saw the sweet bday note you sent to Lesely....how nice and HOW did you know? I knew you were a smart cookie! She loved it.   Crista Vaghi [C Magazine]

Hollywood Memorabilia

On view now through June 18th, The Paley Center is proud to be the exclusive home for the Debbie Reynolds Hollywood Memorabilia Collection Auction. This collection is pure Hollywood history.  Each day I drive to work and pass The Paley Center for Media and look up at the gold chest fromRaiders of the Lost Ark.  Now we know where it is!!  Included are rare Debbie Reynolds screenings from the Paley Center collection. http://www.paleycenter.org/

Thought for the day

If truth is beauty, how come no one has their hair done in a library?  -Lily Tomlin

A Contented Guest

The Luxe Hotel on Rodeo drive was excellent, by far the best service I have received in any hotel ever, very personal and friendly/helpful right down to the house maids and door men whether you remembered to tip or not, they still gave the same service.  Paul Rifken [guest]

Torso

After a visit to Robert Graham's studio this evening in Venice, CA, we've gained a new appreciation of the late artist's work.  Seen here is Graham's "Torso" sculpture which serves as the symbol of the Rodeo Drive 'Walk of Style'.  Located at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way.http://www.rodeodrive-bh.com/

Travel Fact

Tourism-related industries are the leading employer in LA County, with 437,000 Angelenos employed in this sector in 2010 that makes LA a very hospitable destination for its 25.7 million annual visitors.  America's amusement parks thrown for a loop by the slumping economy over the last few years are starting to rebound, drawing bigger crowds over the past year and spending more money on new attractions and shows this season. Crowds increased at many U.S. parks in 2010, with some seeing record attendance. Profits were up as families sought out fun and began traveling again. Better weather helped, too. Those within the amusement industry are optimistic this year will be even better.

A Contented Guest

Thanks for the wonderful stay you set up for Betse and her party. They had a wonderful time!  xo James
[Bailey, Artistic Director, ComedySportz]

In the Moody

Got up early this morning to stand in line for an Australians in Film screening of Judy Moody at The Grove. And it was mighty early for me!  I joining hundreds of moms and kids who wanted to be the first to see this Disney movie; moms were drinking coffee and the kids were ready for popcorn and soda.  After the feature, Disney Radio prepare games and giveaways.  We [adults] all agreed it was the perfect 'kids movie'; just enough summer adventure and gross stuff to make any youngster happy.  I'm going to make a list myself and earn 100 thrill points worth of 'awesome things' I've never done before.  I plan on having a NOT-so-bummer-summer too.

Made in the shades

Snag retro shades at 30-70 percent off this weekend, and then 20 percent off prescription and custom lenses throughout the following week. L.A. Eyeworks this weekend, Thursday through Sunday. 7407 Melrose Ave., at N. Martel Ave., West Hollywood.

Auction of a lifetime

This week I saw L'Amour Fou which centers on the partner of the late designer Yves Saint Laurent as he  readies their artworks for auction.  In the documentary film, Pierre Berge speaks poignantly about attending the Christie's auction and hoping the precious pieces will "fly off like birds and find a new place to perch."  We [the audience] mourned the dismantling of a life together; the spoils of their love being picked apart.  It is a tender film focused on the long relationship between Laurent and Berge as well as Laurent's place in fashion history, developing the first ready-to-wear line.  Full of fascinating historical footage and tours of their sumptuous homes, it is a marvelous look into their jet-set life style, art collection and the memory of the person who shared them.  Now playing at Laemmle Royal Theatre, West Los Angeles.

Rock 'n Roll in pictures

Linda McCartney: Life in Photographs is a magnificent selection of 300 photos from her archive of 200,000 images (available at Taschen $69.99 trade edition).  It is not only an intimate peek at he McCartneys at play but also a scrapbook of candid behind-the-scenes shots of such figures and performers as the Doors, Willem de Kooning, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Tim Buckley, Michael Jackson and Johnny Depp.  "She [Linda] found her confidence in rock 'n roll.  She had a real interest in her subjects and that passion comes through," says Mary McCartney of her mother's images.  Taschen is located on Beverly Drive so you can get inspired in person. http://www.taschen.com/

Rodeo Drive Walk of Style

This morning Rodeo Drive honored one of its own, Fred Hayman, for his contributions to the worlds of fashion and entertainment.  The ceremony at the corner of Dayton Way and Rodeo Drive was decorated in the yellow and white stripes symbolizing Giorgio of Beverly Hills which so proudly anchored the corner where Louis Vuitton now stands.  Each speaker collectively expressed their admiration for Mr. Hayman who has become a legend on Rodeo Drive.  At the reception following his induction ceremony as a taste maker to movie stars and Beverly Hills residents, boutique managers and friends continued to praise his kindness and business acumen.  Watch for a new plaque on the drive dedicated to the father of this world famous Drive.  Congratulations!