Sleek Skin: Spa Sciences Exfoliation System is the latest in microdermabrasion at home. Features a “patented” head that oscillates in a specially designed movement (instead of vibrating back and forth), a sponge applicator, a dual-speed exfoliating tool, patented Crystal Exfoliation Cream and Soothing Botanical Cream. Only $29.95 at Target, Eckerd, Ulta and Harmon stores. www.spasciences.com

Relax, Refresh : This sounds like a fun place! The new Ulta in West Hollywood (7100 Santa Monica Blvd.) is a new beauty store combining cosmetics, skincare, fragrance, haircare and salone services


Men From the Boys: GrowUp is a new haircare line for kids that “encourages boys to take that extra interest in their appearance while being the man they want to be,” touts the press information. The six products in the line include “Imagine Rockstar Daily Shampoo,” “Always Strive Skateboard Moisturizing Shampoo,” “Make A Splash Waterpolo Clarifying Shampoo,” “Chill Out Hockey Leave-In Conditioner,” “Stand Firm Karate Hard Hold Hair Gel” (watermelon scented), “Blaze a TrailBMX Styling Stick.”


But GrowUp didn’t forget girls, offering up seven hair products for “Style-Conscious Girls.” The line includes three shampoos, a leave-in conditioner, a detangler, a finishing spray and a shine serum.


Shiny Skin: Skingenious, a Florida-based company offers “10 Years Younger!” to promote supple, youthful skin – Tyra Banks and Mandy Moore own the line, which includes, in its ingredients, L-Sodiumn Hyaluronate & L-Sodium PCA, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, D-Quercetin & D-Boldine, Cassia Betaglycan, Borage and Black Currant Oil, L-Superoxide Dismutase, D-Beta Fructan, D-Beta Glucososamine & Panthenol, Polydatin & Reservatrol. Whew. Retails for $175 for 1oz. www. Sinkgenious .com


Cute Case: Bungee, the latest from Umbra (and out this month), is a unique card case that comes in red, orange, blue and green. The pocket-sized case holds small personal items, from credit cards, photos, money, keys, candy, whatever you like. It recently received a 2003 Good Design award by the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design.


Attention Shoppers: If you live in Los Angeles, There’s a Sample Sale at the Silverlake Independent Jewish Community Center (323-663-2255) featuring Tree, Nom, My Tee, Bella Dahl, Bartack, Frankie B., XLarge, American Apparel, Sue Wong, Development, Petro Zillia, Monah Li, California Waves, Endless Sun, Ernsdorf, Lilky McNeal, Silverlake Kids, Queen Bee, and more. June 5, 2004, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (presale $10 from 8 to 10 a.m.)


Celeb Owned Clothing Auction!: Jennifer Noonan of NOM is auctioning off the only other Gwyneth Paltrow Vintage Tube Tee in existence to benefit The Pregnant & Clean Project Plus. Go to http://www.naissancematernity.com/catalog/auction_vintage_tube.html.

Willie Gets Well: Willie Nelson has successful surgery to relieve Carpal Tunnel and resumes touring July 3rd. Attempts at rest, splinting and medication to relieve symptoms of carpal tunnel earlier this month were not as effective as hoped, and last week Willie Nelson had an endoscopic carpal tunnel release operation to his left wrist. Norman P. Zemel, M.D., the orthopaedic hand surgeon at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles says, "the operation was
successful and he no longer has numbness and tingling in the fingers of his left hand."

Taking some time off from touring to fully recover, Willie will be on the road again resuming dates starting on July 3rd in Roswell, NM. The next day the music legend will host his annual 4th of July Picnic concert event at The Stockyards in Ft. Worth, TX. For information on rescheduled dates please check with local venues or Willie's website www.WillieNelson.com.


Designer Finds New PR Home: Tiffany Alana Joins Couch Nobelius Popular contemporary designer Tiffany Alana Wolff's latest collection of stretch tube tops, skirts and dresses is now available for viewing in our in-house showroom. Since the launch of her eponymous TiffanyAlana line in 1998, Tiffany's signature shoulder-baring styles, each embellished with one-of-a-kind brooches, have struck a chord with fans including Cameron Diaz, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson, Paris Hilton, Christina Aguilera, Brooke Burns and Jennifer Lopez. The figure-flattering bias cut and uneven ‘handkerchief’ hemlines of her designs can be found in Saks Fifth Avenue, Barney’s New York, Nordstrom and Fred Segal - as well as more than 200 fashion-forward boutiques across the US. Another new arrival to Couch Nobelius – ChiaraKruza maternity wear. They’re working with this Los Angeles-based label (best known for their stylish stretch basics) to launch their high-fashion maternity collection that accentuates the innate sexiness of the mom-to-be with sensuous fabrics and chic, body-conscious designs.

Billionaire Babes Sample Sale: Dubbed "the sample sale to end all sample sales," billion dollar babes returns next week to the Hollywood Palladium featuring designer clothing and accessories for men and women from more than 60 labels, all at wholesale prices and below. Labels at this event include: Adriana Caras, Black Halo, Catherine Malandrino, Custo Barcelona, Da-Nang, Eberjey, Ella Moss, Gsus, Joie, Louis Verdad, Oliver Peoples, Petro Zillia, Rebecca Taylor, Tocca and Yanuk. There’s an exclusive VIP pre-sale for invited members, media and VIPs on Friday, June 4, and the sale is open to all other registered guests from 8am-6pm on Saturday, June 5. http://www.billiondollarbabes.com/eviteLAjun2004/saturday.html

Plastic Surgery News: The Discovery Health Channel, a preeminent source of credible quality science and medical programming, chose this month to feature the work of world-renowned plastic surgeon Dr Stanley Frileck in Operation Reconstruction, the latest episode in the series Plastic Surgery: Before & After. In Operation Reconstruction, Dr Frileck performs life changing facial reconstruction surgery on an entertainment industry executive. Dr Frileck's reputation for subtle aesthetic enhancement extends worldwide with patients including celebrities, heads of state and international royalty.

More on Funny Man Dan: the dan band
(last show before they go to NYC until august...) friday june 4th Avalon 1735 N. Vine Street (north of hollywood blvd) doors at 7:30/show at 8:30 for tickets email: thedanband@avalonhollywood.com

Alert for Toby Keith Fans: Toby Keith is set to embark on a USO tour to Italy, Germany, Kosovo and the Persian Gulf. Once there, two-time consecutive winner of the “Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year” will perform free shows, “meet and greet” service men and women, and tour a variety of job bases. Keith is bringing along Ted Nugent. www.uso.org.

Reba’s Really Nice Jewels: Reba McEntire was the mistress of ceremonies for Wednesday night's 39th Annual Academy of Country Music Award. She paired Chopard's jewelry with her two evening gowns. To coordinate with her black plunging v-neck gown she selected Chopard's oval diamond Riviere necklace featuring more than 35 carats and worth in excess of $500,000. For her change to a champagne tulle-over-satin slip gown, she paired Chopard's yellow radiant diamond ear studs comprised of 4 carats each and valued at $390,000.


Saved! Star Mandy Moore visited MTV's "TRL" -May 27, 2004 and showed up her cropped brown hair, with subtle highlights of red and pink. She also wore giant circle gold dangling earrings. If you haven’t seen it yet, check out “Saved!” which is wholly enjoyable and ultimately a movie written by believers. Especially and notably brilliant is Susan Sarandon’s daughter Eva Amurri – a really great performance (much more significant than her work with her mum in “The Banger Sisters”). Macualay Culkin is very good as the “abled” brother of bad girl Mandy, who plays Hillary Faye. Moore has a hilarious moment where she tosses a book at the back of Jena Malone’s Mary’s head and screams that she’s filled with Christ’s love. All-in-all, a great film – and you can’t forget Martin Donovan and Mary Louise Parker who are also brilliant.

Peace Delegation: Musician, activist and poet Michael Franti will join a delegation of peace workers, musicians, artists and film makers who are traveling to Iraq and Israel from June 2nd through the 15th. The intention of the trip is to see first-hand the affects of the war on all those involved from Iraqi civilians to men and women in uniform. Although no concerts are planned for the trip, Michael and the others are planning on meeting with as many Iraqi musicians and artists as possible as well as students and other youth organizations.

“I have been speaking from my heart about the futility of war since I began making music,” Michael says, “and having spoken to many men and women in the U.S. military about their experiences in Iraq, I felt that it was time for me to go there myself, so I can see first hand what it is we are facing in the years to come as Iraq goes through the painful process of healing herself.”

With regards to visiting Israel, Michael notes that he has “always been concerned about the situation in Israel with the Palestinians and hope that through learning more about the crisis from both sides I can better serve as a voice for change and peace to those who only hear about the region on the nightly news."

As far as his goals for the trip, Franti’s intention is “to go there with an open mind, an open heart and a guitar, to experience as much as I can in our limited time. I hope that upon our return all of us on the trip will become more effective communicators for those whose voices are going unheard.”

Michael and the rest of the delegation will be creating a documentary film about their experiences in the Middle East and are looking for donations to help cover some of the costs of the trip as well as the production of the film. Anyone who believes in the spirit of this project and wishes to make a tax deductible donation can do so through Spearhead's non profit organization, the Power To The Peaceful fund.

More information is available on the newly designed website http://www.spearheadvibrations.com.
July 13 will see the release of a new acoustic collection from Michael Franti titled Songs From The Front Porch. Spearhead and Franti will spend the rest of the summer touring worldwide including dates at the UK’s Glastonbury Festival and the US’s Lollapalooza Festival. September 11 the band will headline the annual Power To The Peaceful Festival that Franti co-produces with his management. The free event will take place at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.

Style Stuff :

Liz Phair went major bling, as she wore Erica Courtney to the “Raising Helen” premiere May 26, for which she wrote the title song.

Necklaces:
Platinum Fat Ball & Bezel 22” chain
Platinum 5pt. Fat Diamond Bezel 10.5” Chain with South Sea Pearl Cross Charm
Platinum 5pt. Fat Diamond Bezel 7.5” Chain


Bracelets:
Platinum 5pt. Fat Diamond Bezel 7.5” Chain
Platinum Charm Bracelet
Platinum South Sea Pearl & Chalcedony Wrap Bracelet

Ring:
Platinum Pearl Ball & Chain Ring

Earrings:
White Gold and Diamond Coat Hanger Earrings on Large White Gold and Diamond Huggies

Phair looked especially gorgeous in a chiffon black-and-white dress, the ideal colors of the season.

LeAnn Rimes is also a fan of Erica Courtney jewelry, choosing it to wear on the red carpet and during her performance at the Academy of Country Music Awards. Red Carpet: 12.48ct Morganite Teardrop and Platinum Earrings on Platinum and Diamond Cross Leverback. Performance: “Dreamy“ Pink Tourmaline and Platinum Earrings on Skinny Platinum Diamond Huggies


Former “Bachelor” winner Estella Gardinier wore Nicole Miller to the 39th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas last night. She chose a soft pink strapless gown with ribbon detail. Keith Burns of the country band Trick Pony escorted her down the red carpet.

Emily Procter of CBS' CSI: Miami, presented an award at last night's 31st Annual Academy of Country Music Awards in a dress by Monique Lhuillier, wearing a brown chiffon v-neck dress with rusching at the waist and a sexy handkerchief hem.

Reba McEntire wore Sue Wong’s Ashley green silk and organza gown to host the Academy of Country Music Awards.

Stephanie Niznik of WB’s “Everwood” wore a Nicole Miller dress for the Los Angeles premiere of “Raising Helen.” She chose a flirtatious pale blue silk georgette empire waist dress from the Spring 2004 collection.

Arielle Kebbel stepped out on the red carpet at last night's premiere of USA's The Last Ride in a top by Shalini. Kebbel, who currently stars in Soul Plane and can be seen next in Uma Thurman and John Travolta's Be Cool, showed off her summer tan in a turquoise off-the-shoulder "Riviera" blouse with a lavender and white petit fleur print. Arielle paired the top with her own jeans.

Actress KaDee Strickland wore Pagliei Collection’s Electra long, triple strand pearl earring in gold to a May 25, 2004 Hollywood movie premiere.

Actress Lauren C. Mayhew, of the upcoming movie Heart of Summer, wears Bella Dahl’s stretch slub denim 5-pocket cut off mini skirt to the Music Video Production Awards.

Wyle: Bookman: Noah Wyle has signed on to play the title role in Turner Network Television (TNT)'s dramatic action-adventure original film THE LIBRARIAN, it was announced today by Michael Wright, senior vice president of original programming for TNT. Dean Devlin (Independence Day, The Patriot) serves as executive producer of THE LIBRARIAN under his Electric Entertainment banner. The teleplay is by David Titcher (Around the World in 80 Days) who also serves as co-producer. Marc Roskin and Kearie Peak (both executives at Electric Entertainment) have co-producing duties on the film, as well. THE LIBRARIAN is set to premiere on TNT in fourth quarter 2004.

Wiseguys: We LOVE our Sirus Satellite radio – and once you have it, you never want to listen to regular radio again!

Actor Vincent Pastore (Sopranos' Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero) hosts a Live, Weekly Show produced by Steven Van Zandt's Renegade Productions, "The Wiseguy Show," a three-hour celebration of life, the arts, and meatballs hosted by Vincent Pastore, airs live every Wednesday from 6 to 9 p.m. (ET) on SIRIUS Satellite Radio channel 147. Pastore, a veteran actor best known for his role as Salvatore "Big Pussy" Bonpensiero on the HBO series The Sopranos, hosts the program with his crew Vinny Vella, Joe Rigano, John "Cha-Cha" Ciarcia, Steve Schirripa, and announcer "Brooklyn" Joe Causi.


Pastore interviews prominent guests in entertainment, sports, and politics and have chatted with actors Sylvester Stallone, Ed Burns, Eric Stolz, Tim Daly, Jerry Orbach, Joe Piscopo and Esai Morales; musician Gary "U.S." Bonds; Sopranos cast members Michael Imperioli, Maureen Van Zandt and Tony Sirico; and many others.


Pastore and his crew also offer their unique takes on current events, film, romance, and more, peppered with music from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Dion, and Doo-Wop.


In addition to his work on The Sopranos, Vincent Pastore has appeared
in a number of blockbuster movies including Carlito's Way, Basketball
Diaries, Gotti, Mickey Blue Eyes, Hurricane, Serving Sara and Witness to the Mob. He also was featured this spring in a muti-episode stint of ABC's The Practice.


Musician, actor and SIRIUS creative consultant Steven Van Zandt serves
As Executive Producer of The Wiseguy Show. Van Zandt is one of the
Original cast members of The Sopranos as well as a founding member of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band. The Wiseguy Show is the first program created for SIRIUS by Van Zandt's Renegade Productions.

Summertime Sharks: Discovery Channel’s SHARK WEEK 2004 features seven premiere programs that spotlight the diversity of sharks, big and small. The kick-off show will feature an intense encounter with sharks -- a veteran underwater photographer became separated from her diving colleagues and found herself completely surrounded by sharks -- with her own video camera capturing the
harrowing ordeal. Later in the week, a light-hearted episode of the
popular Discovery series "Monster House" will feature a complete home
transformation -- with a wild shark theme.

And shark experts Nigel Marven and Mike deGruy are both on hand in
Several SHARK WEEK programs to offer their unique perspective and knowledge of various types of shark.

Last year, more than 22 million people tuned in to SHARK WEEK.

Golden Trailer’s Best: Here’s a missing winner – just happens to be the big one!

Best of Show: The Stepford Wives
Editor: Adam Agard
Creative Director: Peter Frankfurt
Submitted by Imaginary Forces for Paramount Pictures






Baby Love:
Kid's Juke Box contains 12 personalized children's CDs. Each CD includes six to nine songs mentioning the child's name 40 times and can be created in less than two minutes. The songs increase name recognition, speech patterns and self esteem in either English or Spanish, through the use of the upbeat music. The music is also educational and includes fun songs about learning your ABC, counting, and playing outside. Each song captures the child's attention and imagination. Every song has been sung individually for each of the 2500+ names, with personalized spelling. Kids Juke Box currently offers 98% of names today even the most unusual ones. Unlike other companies, every name is sung in the song, not spliced, into the music. CDs' include MY Very Own Music, Custom4kids, Kool Songs Happy Birthday, Santa and Me, In, For the Love of Animals, and Awesome Kid Music. Kids' Story Book: Make Your Child the Star of the Story
The most personalized product in the world, the interactive CD Kids' Story Book can be created in under a minute and offers a story that is read to the child for which parents have selected: The child's first, middle and last name, nickname, age, gender, ethnicity, hair and eye color are all included in the story.

The introduction contains a personalized message from Mom or Dad e.g.: "To Jimmie Smith with all my love from Mommy!" Children can relate to the character that looks like them. They will hear their name in the story and see their name, correctly spelled, on the screen. Kids can also click on objects and make them talk. There are 18-20 scenes per story. Teachers can print out a story and use it for an entire class. Children learn while having fun and seeing themselves as the hero of the story. Each story enhances reading skills at the child's own pace. Animation and interactive characters make reading a game and lots of fun. The Maze Game allows the child to complete the maze and then positively reinforces his or her success by announcing, "Susie, you're a winner!"


BeansTalk Notes:

Mad About MadonnaVH1 Video channel has been playing nothing except Madonna videos and interviews 24/7. This leads to the inevitable questions of the similarity in the attempts to shock (all that grabbing and thrusting gets tiresome viewed back to back) and her dancing style (nearly identical moves in “Beautiful Stranger” and “American Pie”). Also, why has the gap between her teeth widened. Michele Yoder, colleague of BeansTalk’s Jim Province, gave rave reviews to the pop goddess’ Staples Center show, while the L.A. Times Robert Hilburn found Mrs. Ritchie’s show pretentious and insincere. Still, if you want to hear the oldies and watch the dancing (and admit it, you do), you might want to check out her show (even though we hear face value tix are $175 each! But then, maybe she needs the money.)

Still SlayingIt’s a little surprising that despite the fact that “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” ended last season, its fan magazine is going strong. You’ll find it on the stands next to the “Angel” publication.


We Hope He's WrongDaniel Radcliffe, “Harry Potter” star, predicts Harry will die at the end of the 7th book, indicating a hint in the fourth book that ties Harry irretrievably to enemy Voldemort. Meanwhile, Emma Watson hopes Hermoine ends up doing something she loves, but Rupert Grint has a glint in his eye that Ron Weasley will turn evil.


As talented as she is, this seems like a stretch: Actress Gwyneth Paltrow will produce and star in a feature film about German screen siren Marlene Dietrich, Hollywood trade paper Daily Variety reported in its Thursday edition


Still want to try that Lo-Carb diet? By JILL BARTON, Associated Press Writer

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - A businessman has sued the promoters of the Atkins Diet, saying the low-carb, high-fat meal plan clogged his arteries and nearly killed him.
Jody Gorran, 53, said Thursday that he was seduced "with a bacon-wrapped cheeseburger" to blindly follow the Atkins Diet, which also made his cholesterol soar to a risky level.

The lawsuit, filed with the aid of the Washington-based advocacy group Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, seeks less than $15,000. The suit also names the estate of the diet's late creator, Dr. Robert Atkins.
Atkins Nutritionals said it stands by the science that has "repeatedly reaffirmed the safety and health benefits of the Atkins Nutritional Approach." The company also questioned the motivation of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, which promotes a vegan diet banning meat, fish, dairy and egg products.

The Atkins Diet advocates meat, eggs and cheese, frowns on bread, rice and fruit, and allows up to two-thirds of calories from fat, more than double the usual recommendation.

Gorran said he started the diet in 2001 because his weight had risen from 140 to 148 pounds. In two months, he said, his cholesterol rose from a normal 146 to an unhealthy 230, and by October 2003, he needed angioplasty to clear his arteries.

"I came very close to dying, and this is from a diet I thought was marvelous," said Gorran.

Atkins medical director, Dr. Stuart Trager, said the cholesterol increase claimed by Gorran is "dramatically greater than what we have seen" in scientific studies. He said a recent Duke University study showed only minor cholesterol increases, in some cases up to 10 percent.

Robert Atkins argued that carbohydrates generate too much insulin, which makes people hungrier and encourages them to put on fat. His books, including the best-selling "Dr. Atkins' New Diet Revolution," have sold 15 million copies and attracted millions of followers.

The same advocacy group involved in the suit filed Wednesday released details of Atkins' autopsy report in February, 10 months after he died after slipping on an icy sidewalk. The report showed Atkins, 72, had a history of heart trouble, including congestive heart failure and high blood pressure — details that stoked debate over the diet.

Wouldn’t you hate to be on a flight with them??: NEW YORK (Reuters) - Two preachers grounded a flight leaving Buffalo, New York, after they frightened passengers by declaring the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks were a good reason to pray, officials said on Thursday.

One preacher told fellow passengers as the Continental Airlines plane taxied down the runway, "Your last breath on earth is the first one in heaven as long as you are born again and have Jesus in your heart," according to FBI (news - web sites) spokesman Paul Moskal.

Passengers on the Wednesday flight to Newark, New Jersey told a flight attendant, who alerted the plane's captain, officials said. The captain turned the plane around.

"They were sincere in their beliefs and were not malicious," Moskal said by telephone from Buffalo. "In the context of 9/11 it may not have been the best way to promote their religion."

The two Pentecostal ministers, Canadian nationals Yohan Heenatigala and Komal Singh, were questioned by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and later released and put on another flight, the spokesman said. They were traveling to attend a convention in Baltimore, Maryland.



"Little Red Riding Hood", "Voyage to Neptune?" " MY Pet Dinosaur", "Voyage to the Neptune", My First day of School, and "Bedtime is Fun!"

Trailer Treasures: WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR FIFTH ANNUAL GOLDEN TRAILER AWARDS

Celebrating The Best In Movie Previews

Stepford Wives Garners Multiple Awards including
Summer 2004 Blockbuster and Most Original;
Other winners include The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King and
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban


LOS ANGELES May 26, 2004 - On Tuesday, May 25th, The Orpheum Theater played host to the Fifth Annual Golden Trailer Awards. The event honoring film trailers for their artistic value was hosted by comedian Tom Green. The winning results were tabulated by the accounting firm of Ernst & Young and announced at the event.

Winners were selected by a panel of industry judges that included: Benicio Del Toro (Traffic, Snatch, and the Hunted), Neil Jordan (Director The Crying Game, Butcher Boy), Bob Osher (Co-Producer Miramax), Drew Giordano (Sr. VP Warner Bros. Pictures), Glenn Close (Stepford Wives, Le Divorce), Fisher Stevens (Co-President GreenStreet Films), Rob Minkoff (Director The Lion King, Stuart Little), Steve Carr (Director Daddy Day Care, Dr. Dolittle), Anne Chaisson (producer Rodger Dodger, PS), Paul Cohen (President Manhattan Pictures), Mary Schmidt Campbell (Dean of NYU, Tisch school of the Arts), Pablo Ferro (Titlest, Artist Dr. Strangelove), Karen Schmeer (Editor Fog of War), John Ottman (Editor, Composer, Usual Suspects) and Greg Dean Schmitz (Film Critic Yahoo Movies).

Launched by industry veterans-and sisters-Evelyn and Monica Brady, the Golden Trailer Awards is the film industry's awards show for feature film trailers: 90 minutes of pure, adrenaline-packed fun and non-stop entertainment. "It's the movie awards show guaranteed against attention deficit disorder," says Monica Brady. "Not only is it perfectly paced for our society, it celebrates the people who condense 120 minutes of movie into a two-minute minor opus."


The Winners (by category) are:

Best Comedy: Elf
Editor: Dave Parker:
Creative Director: Laura Carrillo
Submitted by New Line Cinema

Best Drama: The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King
Editor: Jennifer A. Horvath
Creative Director: Barbara Glazer
Submitted by The Ant Farm for New Line Cinema

Best Voice Over: 21 Grams
Editor: Mark Woollen
Creative Directors: Mark Woollen, Myles Bender
Submitted by Mark Woollen & Associates for Focus Features
Voiceover Talent: Sean Penn

Best Animation/Family: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Editor: Kevin Childress
Creative Directors: Blair Rich, Jeff Lamont
Submitted by Mojo for Warner Bros.

Best Foreign: Osama
Editor: Scott Storm
Submitted by Hammer Creative Advertising for United Artists

Best Trailer - No Movie: Revolver (flashy cut)
Editor: Nate Pommer
Creative Director: Burke Heffner
Submitted by The Siege Perilous

Trashiest: A Miami Tail
Editor: Jeff Kauffman
Submitted by Hammer Creative Advertising for Lion's Gate Entertainment

Best Foreign Independent: City of God
Editor: Jon Epstein
Submitted by Miramax Films

Best Horror/Thriller: Dawn of the Dead
Editor: Bill Neil
Creative Director: Scott Bramlett
Submitted by Trailer Park for Universal Pictures

Best Music: The Triplets of Belleville
Editor: Matt Silk
Creative Directors: Ed Glass, Barry Schoor
Submitted by Alkemi Entertainment for Sony Pictures Classics

Golden Fleece: Northfork
Editors and Creative Directors: KO Creative Team
Submitted by KO Creative for Paramount Classics

Best Documentary: Spellbound
Editor and Creative Director: Christy Wilson
Submitted by Kinetic for THINKFilm

Best Independent: Lost in Translation
Editors: Mark Woollen and Margareta Schiappa
Creative Directors: Mark Woollen and Myles Bender
Submitted by Mark Woollen & Associates for Focus Features

Best Romance: The Cooler
Editor: Pete Demirai
Creative Director: Kenji Thielstrom
Submitted by Alkemi Entertainment for Lion's Gate Entertainment

Most Original: The Stepford Wives
Editor: Adam Agard
Creative Director: Peter Frankfurt
Submitted by Imaginary Forces for Paramount Pictures

Best Action: Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle
Editors: Doug B. Brandt, Joel Plotch and Chad Misner
Creative Director: Marin Kistler
Submitted by Ignition Creative for Sony Pictures Entertainment

Summer 2004 Blockbuster: The Stepford Wives
Editor: Adam Agard
Creative Director: Peter Frankfurt
Submitted by Imaginary Forces for Paramount Pictures

Da Tings He Does For His Country THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK: DARK FURY On DVD June 15, 2004 Featuring Vin Diesel as the Voice and Likeness of Riddick, “Dark Fury” Bridges the Story Between “Pitch Black” and “The Chronicles of Riddick”

From animator Peter Chung (The Animatrix “Matriculated;” MTV’s Aeon Flux), and based on a story by The Chronicles of Riddick director David Twohy, Dark Fury, an all-new adventure featuring the voice and likeness of Vin Diesel premieres exclusively on DVD on June 15, 2004.

Presenting an original vision of the Riddick universe, Dark Fury bridges the story between the sci-fi hit Pitch Black and The Chronicles of Riddick, which arrives in theaters June 11, 2004. Delivering edgy, sci-fi adventure and an array of Riddick-inspired bonus materials, Dark Fury features voice talent from Pitch Black and The Chronicles of Riddick, including Vin Diesel, Keith David, Nick Chinlund, and Rhiana Griffith. The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury DVD is presented by Universal Home Entertainment Productions and is priced at $14.98 S.R.P.
Sci-Fi Adventure Delivers Thrilling Bonus Features

The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury is packed with bonus features that extend the Riddick experience:

• From Pitch Black to The Chronicles of Riddick: Bridging the Gap
A behind-the-scenes look into the creative process behind The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury.

• Peter Chung - The Mind of an Animator
A revealing interview with acclaimed animator, Peter Chung, an icon in the animation industry. Get insight into the making of The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury and Chung's perspective on the art of animation.

• Into the Light
Vin Diesel and director David Twohy offer an in-depth look at the characters from The Chronicles of Riddick.

• Animatic to Animation
Moving storyboards reveal how thrilling scenes from the film are taken from concept to final animation.


Renowned Animator Peter Chung and Music From Machinehead
Bring The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury to Life

Known for his futuristic animation style and sensory stimulating material, renowned animator Peter Chung serves as Director of The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury. Best known for directing and designing “Matriculated,” from the best selling Animatrix DVD as well as the groundbreaking MTV hit, Aeon Flux, Chung’s distinctive and sophisticated style has won him fans and critical attention worldwide. Adding to the production value of The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury, renowned DJ Jason Bentley, along with acclaimed music house, Machinehead, create original music for the feature. Featuring a unique and complex blend of electronica, the soundtrack augments the overall action and excitement of the Riddick-inspired adventure.

Synopsis
From renowned animator Peter Chung (The Animatrix, “Matriculated;” MTV's Aeon Flux) comes The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury, an all-new vision of the Riddick universe. When Riddick is captured by bounty hunters, he must battle soldiers of fortune and vicious creatures in the lethal slaughter cells of a massive starship. Riddick's night vision and ruthless combat skills are all that stand between him and a fate literally worse than death in this sci-fi thrill-ride that bridges the incredible stories of Pitch Black and The Chronicles of Riddick.


CAST & FILMMAKERS

Director: Peter Chung
Producer: John Kafka
Screenwriter: Brett Matthews
Story by: David Twohy
Voice Direction and Casting: Jack Fletcher
Cast: Vin Diesel, Keith David, Rhiana Griffith, Nick Chinlund

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

DVD
Street Date: June 15, 2004
Order Close: May 11, 2004
Rating: Not Rated
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98 SRP
DVD Selection Number: 24684
Running Time: 35 Minutes
Number of Layers: Single
Aspect Ratio: 1:85:1
Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround; Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround; French Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround
Copyright: 2004 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Bonus Material:
• From Pitch Black to The Chronicles of Riddick: Bridging the Gap
• Peter Chung: The Mind of an Animator
• Into the Light
• Animatic to Animation
: Alison Krauss attends the Annual Academy of Country Music Awards this evening in Las Vegas in gowns by designer Pamella Roland.

Red Carpet
Alison, nominated for Vocal Event of the Year for her concert with James Taylor, will wear a whitewashed silk charmeuse gown with cutout sides and a front slit for her appearance on the red carpet.

Performance
For her performance, Alison chose a brightly colored chiffon coral reef print halter gown with cascading ruffles along the bottom. Both of the gowns are from the designer's Spring 2004 collection.

Soul Godfather: GODFATHER OF SOUL JOINS RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS FOR UK DATES

James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, continues his Seven Decades of Funk World Tour this summer, joining funk-punk-rock group the Red Hot Chili Peppers for five dates in the United Kingdom. Armed with his famed dance moves and funk-searing voice, James Brown has been grooving crowds into a frenzy with hits such as “I Got You (I Feel Good),” “Get Up (I Feel Like Being A Sex Machine),” and “Make It Funky,” as well as several brand new cuts since the kick-off of the Seven Decades of Funk World Tour a year ago. Brown pours his heart and soul into the words he sings and has influenced, shaped, and redefined the course of contemporary music, including the path of the band he now shares a stage with, the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

James Brown is a globally recognized entertainer with 119 charted singles and over 50 best-selling albums. He has sold millions of records since “Please, Please, Please” first dominated the airwaves and the charts in 1956, and his catalog of classic recordings have made him the most sampled recording artist in history. He was one of the first Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees and honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards by the Grammy’s, the American Music Awards, and the Kennedy Center Honors.


JAMES BROWN/RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS TOUR DATES
6/18 Commonwealth Stadium
Manchester, UK
6/19 Hyde Park London, UK
6/20 Hyde Park London, UK
6/23 Millenium Stadium Cardiff, Wales
6/25 Hyde Park London, UK

BBC Babe Robin Dorian, former VH1 VJ, news correspondent and long-time presenter and producer has signed a six-month contract to host BBC AMERICA’s original production, The Telly, which gives viewers the inside scoop on some of the channel’s forthcoming premiere shows. With a mix of exclusive interviews with cast and creators, behind the scenes footage, hot picks and lifestyle tips, The Telly provides a guide to what’s coming up each month on BBC AMERICA. The Telly airs Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. ET, 8:30 a.m. PT.

Now in it’s third edition The Telly has featured exclusive access to Ricky Gervais and Steven Merchant recorded on their Golden Globe winning visit to Los Angeles, interviews with Robson Green, 3-Non Blondes, Red Cap’s leading lady, Tamzin Outhwaite, BAFTA award winning Bill Nighy, John Simm and Paul Abbott from State of Play plus James Nesbitt of Murphy’s Law. Forthcoming shows to be highlighted this month on BBC AMERICA include Coupling, Little Britain, Without Prejudice, our own Ground Force America and much, much more.

Fashion Notes: As much as we love Julianne Moore, we couldn’t be more sick of the advertorial film in theaters touting Revlon. Yuck! The talented Moore has cut her hair and has darkened her color to a deeper red.
Meanwhile, is that really Chloe Sveigny’s hair or are those extensions? She’s sporting super long (blond) locks these days.

DOUBLE VISION!! Rosie Perez was out last night wearing the same red-and-ruffled dress Eva Ammuri wore to the “Day After Tomorrow” premiere.
Easy Homemade Ranch: Teena Hammond Gomez sent this to me (she, in turn, got the recipe from “Dawnia” on www.allrecipes.com – our favorite recipe site):
You can also use buttermilk in place
of the sour cream, if you like.
Servings: 12

Ingredients:
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon dried chives
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper


Directions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chives,
parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper. Cover and
refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Rice Squad: She also sent me this: Creamiest Rice Pudding
Submitted by: Bonnie Quinn
OK, so it's a little time-consuming to make this on the stovetop, but
for a real rice pudding fan, it's worth every minute. My husband says it
reminds him of the rice pudding he used to get as a child at a
restaurant.
Servings: 12

Ingredients:
1/2 gallon milk
1 cup white sugar
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
3 eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
ground cinnamon to taste



Directions:
1. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 1/2 gallon milk,
sugar and rice. Simmer, covered, 1 hour, stirring frequently. Remove
pan from heat and let rest 10 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, combine eggs, 1/4 cup milk, salt and vanilla. Stir
into rice mixture and return pot to low heat, stirring constantly, for
2 minutes. Pour into a 9x13 inch dish and cover with plastic wrap,
folding back the corners to allow the steam to escape.
3. When pudding has cooled to room temperature, remove plastic wrap and
sprinkle surface of pudding with cinnamon. Cover tightly (with fresh
wrap) and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight before serving.

Speaking of Food: If you haven’t tuned into food TV, you might want to try it. There are some wonderfully entertaining shows including “Unwrapped,” “Good Eats” and “Top 5.” There’s also “30-Minute Meals” (which is fun to watch, but she often makes food that isn’t particularly interesting to us). “Paula’s Home Cooking” on the other hand, almost always makes scrumptiously yummy looking meals.

The Curry House in West Los Angeles is offering chicken curry and rice (Yummy) for half-off if you buy a beverage. Now through Sunday.

Miss Your ‘80s TV?: The first season of “Quantum Leap,” starring hunky Scott Bakula will be available on three-discs DVD June 8, 2004, with a SRP of $59.98

Series Synopsis: Get ready to join Dr. Sam Beckett on the adventure of many lifetimes! Who will he be this time? Mafia hit man. Air Force test pilot. Professional boxer. Sam does it all in Season One of the groundbreaking, 5-time Emmy award-winning series. Scott Bakula plays Sam Beckett, a time traveler who never knows whose body he is going to “leap” into next and at what moment in history he may find himself. Sam is joined by a helpful but easily distracted holographic guide, Al (Dean Stockwell) who assists him on his missions and aids Sam in his ultimate goal of returning to his own life in the present.

Bonus Material: “A Kiss with History: Remembering Quantum Leap”- Series stars Scott Bakula and Dean Stockwell, along with creator Don Bellisario share stories about creating their groundbreaking series; “Quantum Knowledge”- Scott Bakula shares a bit of trivia about each episode; “Hidden messages from Scott Bakula & Dean Stockwell to Leapers.”

The “A-Team” is also available for the same price, but you get four DVDs here. Series Synopsis: Heroic, daring and more than just a little colorful, The A-Team is a brave band of brothers who will stop at nothing to get the bad guys. This unforgettable series features Mr. T, one of television’s most unique and popular superstars, in his most memorable role.Sent to prison by a military court for a crime they didn’t commit, these four commandos escaped from a maximum-security stockade and now survive in the Los Angeles underground as soldiers of fortune. So, if you have a problem and there’s no one else who can help, and if you think you can find them, maybe you can hire The A-Team. Popular with fans and critics alike, now you can enjoy the entire explosive first season of the series that The New York Times hailed “A sensational hit.”

Top Trancer: DJ and producer Christopher Lawrence tours worldwide to support his latest album, “All or Nothing.” Dubbed “the US trance king” by CMJ, “the US trance master” by Remix Magazine and “one of the the biggest names in the international dance scene” by CNN, Christopher Lawrence gears up for a worldwide to support his debut All or Nothing, scheduled for a July release. The album is licensed to KinkyBeat by Christopher’s new label Pharmacy Electronic Music. Pharmacy will be an outlet for up and comers. Several years in the making, All or Nothing is a fast paced, mainly instrumental trance trip through the mind of Christopher Lawrence, who BPM Magazine voters named their #5 most favorite DJ in this year’s poll. June 4 in LA – Red @ Arena

Poet Beat: This Thursday, May 27, 2004 at The Avalon, OTEP will give a Poetry Jam reading at an event hosted by BE THE REVOLUTION ( all proceeds from the event, they say, “will be used to remove the [we’re assuming the current] president select”). Other artist performing include Ozomatli, Z-trip, Culture Clash, David J (of Love and Rockets), etc.... tickets are $15 presale,$20 at the door. Doors open at 8 p.m.

Visiting Bob: We’ve talked about our new-found affection for Bob Costas. Here’s the latest: Actor Dennis Quaid, late-night talk-show host Conan O'Brien and rocker Avril Lavigne head the guest list on this week's “On the Record With Bob Costas.” Premieres Friday, May 28, 2004 at 11 p.m., but repeats often. Check out www.hbo.com for more info.

Face Paint: advice from celebrity makeup artist Stephen Sollitto courtesy of our friend Dana Sarbeck, his rep:

Breaking up is hard to do. Especially when it’s a color you love.

“Mascara more than three months old? Pitch it. Foundation coagulated? Toss it. Still have that freebee brush from your first Clinique purchase? Come on…,” laughs makeup expert Stephen Sollitto, whose clients include Carmen Electra, Christina Aguilera and Britain’s Scary Spice.

Stephen’s tips for a smooth break include:


Step #1: “First, empty your drawer onto a clean surface. Most importantly, take into account what you have vs. what you actually use and need. Set aside what you plan to use. Throw out or pass along everything else. Separate out lipsticks for another fun project (see step 4).”

Step #2: “Clean your drawer or organizer with an anti-bacterial wipe or alcohol. Rinse with water. Don’t forget to clean tweezers, pencil sharpeners, eyelash curlers and fingernail clippers to kill any lingering bacteria. Dry thoroughly with a cloth or Q-tip (for pencil sharpeners).”

Step #3: “Replace your makeup in a way that makes sense to you. Put the products you had forgotten about in front so you will use them! Group items according to category: eye shadows, foundations, brushes, etc.”

Step #4: For the lipsticks you set aside in step 1, buy an empty makeup palette at a beauty supply store (it looks like the watercolor painting palette from back in grade school). One at time, chop off the lipstick from its tube and put in into a spoon. Hold the spoon over a candle until the lipstick melts. Then pour the lipstick into one section of the empty palette. Let the lipstick harden. Wipe the spoon with a dry cloth. Repeat until you have filled the palette. In the new palette, every color is visible, making it easier to select a shade. Plus, you’ll save room in your makeup drawer. And, when traveling, you’ll have a more efficient makeup bag.”

“Makeup doesn’t last forever,” says Stephen. “When its old, out of style, spilled or dried up, it does you no good. Staying organized and updating your makeup will keep you from falling into a pattern of always using the same products.”

Stephen Sollitto is a Los Angeles-based makeup.


Still Want More Reality TV? You’re in Luck: TBS is developing two new original reality series from Evolution Film & Tape, Inc. (Switched!, Bands Reunited). The first project, THE MANSION, is a reality competition series in which seven competitors renovate a dilapidated mansion that one will eventually get to keep. The second project, as yet untitled, from Evolution and Full Circle Entertainment, takes a diverse group of men and puts them to the test. They’re slated to premiere on TBS in fourth quarter 2004.

"The two projects are exactly the kind of funny, light-hearted and innovative reality series we're looking for," said Steve Koonin, executive vice president and chief operating officer of TBS and TNT. "They take relatable situations, like renovating a house or putting one's masculinity to the test, and turn them into no-holds-barred competitions with hilarious results that will really resonate with our young, comedy-loving audience."

THE MANSION starts with a run-down estate desperately in need of repair. Enter seven amateur home remodelers determined to turn the eyesore into a paradise. For eight weeks, the seven competitors will live in and work together on the house, one room at a time. Before beginning on each project, the renovators will vote for one person to serve as project foreperson. That person will lead the group to complete the project, juggling assignments, making tough decisions and trying to maintain group cohesiveness in the face of mounting deadlines and flaring tempers. THE MANSION will climax with TBS viewers voting to give one of the seven competitors the keys to the newly renovated house.

TBS and Evolution Film & Tape, Inc. are currently conducting an open casting call to find the seven competitors for THE MANSION. Individuals who feel confident in their home-improvement skills can apply for the show online at TBS's Web site, http://tbs.tv.

The second project from Evolution and Full Circle Entertainment puts real men to the ultimate test. Separated from their wives or girlfriends, a diverse group of men will live together for three weeks. During that period, they will face a variety of fun and outrageous challenges that will test their emotional and physical stamina. Through a series of eliminations, one man will emerge as the champion, with a huge cash prize.

Fashion Bits: Vibrant colors were popular at the “Day After Tomorrow” premiere – Emmy Rossum chose a gorgeous silk satin blue summer dress, and “Saved” star Eva Amurri chose a red dress that harkened to the flapper era. Julie Ann Emery, at that event, chose a hot pink 60s-inspired mini with silver detailing.

Oprah’s best buddy Gayle King, Janice Combs and Patti LaBelle were out last night, proving that black works fine in this weather, especially for evening events, although Jill Hennessy wore a short black dress to the “Day After” preem. Chelsea Clinton was looking very pretty (even though she paired up a ¾ sleeve brown cotton button up blouse with a lacy black skirt) – her currently hairstyle is very flattering (and btw, Ian couldn’t be happier to be with her).

At TRL Emma Watson (better known as Hermione of “Harry Potter”) showed up with co-star Daniel Radcliffe. While they’re both growing up much too fast (get those next films going!), Watson showed off her style in low-cut jeans and white t-shirt, with a vibrant red military/band jacket.

Neiman’s points out that skirts, skirts, skirts are big this season, noting that the hottest ones are minis, pencils, those with a bottom edge detail and full, fun and feminine ones.

Cannes Hair: From Kill Bill Star, Daryl Hannah to “Jesus” Jim Caviezel, Sports Illustrated cover girl Petra Nemcova, Sean Young and more, Laurent Dufourg traveled, as we’ve mentioned earlier, to his native France to style the star’s locks during the film industry’s most prestigious festival – Le Festival de Cannes. Laurent and a select team of his most talented artists were “on call” as the official stylists of the WireImage Portrait Studio.

Good Graft at Cannes: Da-Nang’s newest signature item, the “canvas tote” for men and women in army green and cloud white and the “camouflage duffel,” was spotted on stars in the south of France in between photo calls and red carpet appearances during Le Festival De Cannes. Fans included Uma Thurman to Sean Penn to the Cohen Brothers, Quentin Tarrentino, Alanis Morrisette, Tom Hanks, Daryl Hannah, Sheryl Crow.

As an official sponsor of the WireImage Portrait Studio, Da-Nang provided celebrities attending the festival bags filled with Da-Nang tanks (worn by Halle Berry and Jennifer Lopez) and hundreds of dollars in Privé Aux Herbes hair product.

In addition, the Da-Nang bag was waiting for celebs, upon check in, at some of the cities most exclusive hotels, including the Hotel Du Cap, Carlton and Martinez. Da-Nang’s complete line of “lived in luxury wear” for men, women and children was launched in January 2003 in Los Angeles, CA. With each season, Da-Nang introduces new lines that are a sophisticated combination of impeccable style, fit and quality. From washed silk khakis to colorful skirts and dresses made from the most exquisite pre aged and washed fabrics, the spirit of Da-Nang reflects the ultimate in comfort fused with unparalleled style.

Currently the line is available in Fred Segal, Ron Herman, Theodore, Flying A, Atrium, Scoop, E Street Denim, L’eclaireur in Paris and is worn by some of the most recognizable stars in the world, including Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry, Sara Jessica Parker, Jennifer Aniston and Hillary Duff to name a few.

Style Stuff :

Sheryl Crow wore in Erica Courtney jewelry at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival. She chose Erica Courtney’s diamond and platinum post huggies with diamond and platinum petite chandelier earrings to the Dolce & Gabbana party on May 21, 2004. Then she wore Erica Courtney’s diamond and platinum medium huggie with diamond and white gold “Round” earrings; platinum diamond bangles; diamond and platinum overlap “V” ring to the “De Lovely” photo call on May 22, 2004. Crow donned a 60s-inspired teased up hairdo, with the top pulled up and the rest left down at the back.

Crow and Alexandra Kerry, daughter of U.S. presidential candidate John Kerry, both selected spring looks by Monique Lhuillier for the Cannes Film Festival.

Sheryl Crow De-Lovely
Crow joined her De-Lovely cast mates over the weekend for their photo call at the Cannes Film Festival in a dress by Monique Lhuillier, choosing a vibrant floral chiffon strapless dress with delicate Swarovski crystal beading.

Alexandra Kerry Shrek 2
The aspiring filmmaker attended Cannes to promote her short film The Last Full Measure. Between media appearances, she attended the premiere of Shrek 2 and hit the red carpet in Monique's ivory tropical floral silk charmeuse halter gown with graphic inserts.

At Cannes, Ashley Judd chose a beautiful white flower that contrasted well with her dark hair.

At the "Lift Ev'ry Vote" John Kerry 2004 Campaign Launch Celebration in Hancock Park in Los Angeles on Saturday, Garcelle Beauvais placed a white gardenia front and center of her black flowy top and pants.

Maybe hair kerchiefs are making a comeback. Christie Brinkley, smiling and happy, wore a triangular pink one with white polka dots to the NYC premiere of the new “Harry Potter” film (we can’t wait for it!).

At that same premiere, Leelee Sobieski continued to perpetuate her Euro flare, in a grey pinstripe top with sleeves, over low rider jeans (with a wide leather belt). She looked, as always, tall and stunning.

“Potter” star Emma Watson wore a ruched top strapless beige silk dress with a full skirt and pointed white shoes. She’s looking so pretty and grown up!

General Hospital’s Alicia Leigh Willis wore a taupe silk gown with antique beading and tulle drape Nicole Miller gown to the 31st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards on Friday, May 21, 2004.

Access Hollywood’s Nancy O’Dell also chose Nicole miller for the event, wearing a purple silk gown with antique beading.

Deidre Hall Days of Our Lives
Hall presented an award at the ceremony in an ivory bias cut gown by Sunny Choi. The gown features bias-seeming, multiple straps and a beautiful vintage-inspired crystal flower brooch.

Adrienne Frantz The Bold & The Beautiful
Amber on The Bold and the Beautiful, wore an iridescent pink and gold strapless taffeta gown by Sunny Choi that gathers to the left and is held in place with a gorgeous Swarovski butterfly pin.

Asymetrical skirts may be at the local mall stores now, but starlets are still wearing them – Elizabeth Berkeley chose a turquoise one with ruffled edge to wear to the Step Up For Yoga And Health Celebration by The Step Up Women's Network which she hosted at the Sports Club L.A.

Is it just us or is Jessica Simpson looking even more bustier than normal? She showed up in a silk satin corset to the Z 100 event this weekend and in her ill-conceived variety show, she was proudly displaying her wares. Speaking of that, could that show be any more of a 70s-throwback? Did someone really miss “Donny and Marie”?

Taupe seems to be a strong color, too. At the Calvin Klein Underwear Party - May 21, 2004 at Milk Studios in NYC, Ali Larter and Fernanda Lima wore it (Hilary Swank, at the same event, wore a taupe skirt), and at Cannes, Alanis Morrisette chose it twice (once for a photo call and once for an evening gown event).

Lydia Hearst was at the Klein event, very much trying to take the Paris Hilton torch from the fellow heiress. Hearst was wearing a halter top mini ruffled silk chiffon print dress, preening for photogs.
Mraz Man Elektra/Atlantic recording artist Jason Mraz’s live collection, "TONIGHT, NOT AGAIN: JASON MRAZ LIVE AT THE EAGLES BALLROOM” arrives in stores August 24, 2004. The special two-disc CD/DVD package features the singer and his band in concert, performing tracks from his Elektra debut, "WAITING FOR MY ROCKET TO COME," along with five previously unreleased songs. "TONIGHT, NOT AGAIN..." was recorded and filmed last October at Milwaukee's Eagles Ballroom. Mraz is joined on the CD/DVD by his band, the "Take It Easy Buddies" - Toca Rivera: percussion, background vocals; Bill Bell: lead guitar; Ian Sheridan: bass guitar, background vocals; Eric Hinojosa: keyboards, banjo; Adam King: drums - blending great songs with inventive improvisation.
He’s joined by special guests, including Blues Traveler's John Popper and the world-famous Chicago Storm/Ohio Players Horns (Kenny Anderson: trumpet; JoWestly Boston: saxophone; Johnny Cotton: trombone). The setlist includes "The Remedy (I Won't Worry)," "You And I Both," and "Curbside Prophet," along with five new Mraz-penned songs.
Directed by Nigel Dick (Guns N' Roses, R.E.M. and Oasis), the DVD features the concert and bonus footage, including behind-the-scenes segments filmed during Mraz's tours of the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Also featured is a never-before-heard solo acoustic rendition of Elton John's classic "Rocket Man."
Mraz has embarked on his solo acoustic tour, dubbed "The Tour of the Curbside Prophets." Inspired by Mraz's beginnings as a street musician, the tour features features three genre-spanning artists: acclaimed singer/guitarist Raúl Midón, Hawaiian slack-key guitarist/vocalist Makana, and DJ Bob Necksnapp. All four players will perform individually as well as with each other.
The tour kicked off on Friday, May 14th at Minneapolis' Orpheum Theatre, and winds up June 20th at Copley Symphony Hall in Mraz's adopted hometown of San Diego. The tour will also feature two evenings - June 16th and 17th - at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, marking the first-ever pop event to be held at the Frank Gehry-designed venue.
Mraz - who performed three songs on the May 22nd installment of NBC-TV's Weekend Today - also recently announced plans to wrap up the summer with a series of live dates alongside Dave Matthews Band, including a three-night stand at the Gorge Amphitheatre in George, Washington on Labor Day Weekend.


Not Un-Coupled: The American version of this hit Brit series lasted probably a minute, but the original continues on strong. BBC America brings the fourth season of “Coupling” to the U.S.

Winner of Silver Rose of Montreux, Best TV Comedy Award and recent winner at the 2003 British Comedy Awards, Coupling returns in an all-new season. Coupling premieres Sundays from June 6 at 9 p.m.

With a new guy on the scene, a baby on the way, commitment in the air and love on the horizon, the dynamics of the six friends are definitely changing.

Brought together by the relationship between two of them – Steve (Jack Davenport, Pirates of the Caribbean) and Sue (Sarah Alexander) – Coupling navigates the treacherous waters of modern day romance, made all the more complicated by the baggage of best friends, exes, and potential lovers.

At the end of last season Susan and Steve discovered they were pregnant (well, mostly Susan), confirmed bachelor Patrick (Ben Miles) and Sally (Kate Isitt) finally admitted their true feelings for each other and loser in love Jane (Gina Bellman) was, once again, left on her own.

But it’s not all doom and gloom for Jane. As the new season opens, things are looking up. There’s this guy called Oliver (Richard Mylan), who has his eye on her. Could they be on the brink of becoming a couple? Is it possible that lifetime loser in love Oliver might just get somewhere with lifetime loser in love Jane? Trouble is, his apartment is a little “un-edited” and his living room has lost the battle with magazine nudity…

Susan and Steve are now well and truly an item – so why is he dreaming about being executed by “A Method Never Before Seen On British Television” – and being chased by a fetus with an axe?

Meanwhile Sally and Patrick are settling into their new relationship. But since the dawn of time, men and women have been falling in love – and men have been trying to get home straight afterwards. Can fallen playboy Patrick ever find his way back from the enchanted glade of his one true love and get a decent night’s sleep?

In the build up to the U.S. premiere of season four, BBC AMERICA offers viewers a chance to catch up with the love antics of season three in a special Coupling Marathon. Coupling Marathon airs Sunday, May 30 from 6 p.m. ET, 3 p.m. PT.

Season three begins a heartbeat after the end of season two with Steve and Susan splitting up. The entire episode is conducted in split-screen, one half following Steve and the other following Susan as they both head to the Temple of Woman – a beauty salon for the girls, a strip club for the boys.

After their abortive fling last season, Patrick and Sally have gone into the dangerous territory of being over-protective, new partner-hating best buddies – and then one of them blurts out, “I love you,” at the wrong moment.

Meanwhile Jeff (Richard Coyle) still has a girlfriend, Julia (Lou Gish) – but what happens when Jeff, a man without the software to say “no”, is offered “unconditional sex” by gorgeous Wilma (Emilia Fox, Pride and Prejudice)?

Jane falls in love with James (Lloyd Owen), a nice, sane, heterosexual man who loves her back. But he’s deeply religious and doesn’t believe in sex before marriage. Jane, on the other hand, thinks that shagging is “brilliant”.




Dear GodToday, some favorite song lyrics, courtesy of Andy Partridge of XTC:

Dear God, hope you got the letter, and...
I pray you can make it better down here.
I don't mean a big reduction in the price of beer
but all the people that you made in your image,
see them starving on their feet
'cause they don't get enough to eat from God,
I can't believe in you

Dear God, sorry to disturb you, but...
I feel that I should be heard loud and clear.
We all need a big reduction in amount of tears
and all the people that you made in your image,
see them fighting in the street
'cause they can't make opinions meet about God,
I can't believe in you
Did you make disease, and the diamond blue?
Did you make mankind after we made you? And the devil too!

Dear God, don't know if you noticed, but...
your name is on a lot of quotes in this book,
and us crazy humans wrote it, you should take a look,
and all the people that you made in your image
still believing that junk is true.
Well I know it ain't, and so do you, dear God,
I can't believe in
I don't believe in
I won't believe in heaven and hell.

No saints, no sinners, no devil as well.
No pearly gates, no thorny crown.
You're always letting us humans down.
The wars you bring, the babes you drown.
Those lost at sea and never found,
and it's the same the whole world 'round.
The hurt I see helps to compound
that Father, Son and Holy Ghost
is just somebody's unholy hoax,
and if you're up there you'd perceive
that my heart's here upon my sleeve.
If there's one thing I don't believe in

it's you...
Dear God.

Style Stuff :
Terri Colombino, who plays Katie Peretti on As the World Turns, will wear a silk chiffon dress from A Pea in the Pod for the 31st Annual Daytime Emmy Awards taking place in New York tonight. She chose a fuschia ombre silk chiffon cascade strapless dress.

Charlize Theron chose to wear Lanvin to The Life & Death of Peter Sellers photocall at the Cannes Film Festival today. Lanvin's violet silk dress held across the front with a hook and eye suggesting a sun-effect draping. She then selected another look from Lanvin for the Grand Palais premiere of The Life & Death of Peter Sellers, wearing Lanvin's black silk satin sheath dress with aged "diamond" necklace embroidery as she participated in the montees des marches - the climbing of the steps.

Juliette Lewis seemed to be channeling a late season episode of “Miami Vice” last night at 13th Annual Music Video Production Association Awards at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles – she chose a cotton blend baby blue button up shirt (unbuttoned, natch) with a bright white sportcoat-cut jacket, collar up, of course. Her black stirrup pants were another 80s reminder, as were her bright white pointy toed pumps.

At that same event, Lacey Chabert (forever in many minds as Claudia of “Party of Five,” now of “Mean Girls” as one of the eponymous ones), was looking very grown up and pretty in a red silk chiffon dress, with stiletto silk fire-engine red sandals to match. She also carried a little clutch. Her makeup was glamorous, but tasteful and she chose chandelier style earrings.

Also at the MVPA Awards, Christina Aguilera went for the 60s starlet look, complete with curly blonde hair, and strategically placed mole.

Patricia Arquette loves those white tights paired with white pumps – remember we mentioned them a few days ago? She was wearing them with a cream silk damask dress this time (carrying a silk evening purse), at Southern California Counseling Center's 38th Annual City Lights Gala at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills. She came with sister Rosanna who was dressed in a simple black dress, black heels and hose, with a beige suede sports coat. Ever a classic, she carried the traditional Gucci purse with bamboo handles. (The whole Arquette family was there, include David and Alexis, and believe it or not, the latter was actually dressed like a man.)

Fox’s Upfronts in New York brought out lots of fashion favorites, including Mischa Barton in a taupe silk chiffon droplet of a dress, looking as elegantly model pretty as ever. Paula Abdul chose hot pink floral sandals and Rachel Bilson chose a very mature orange red ankle-length dress with bright white pumps (are we detecting a trend here?). Her series may not be coming back, but “Tru Calling” star Eliza Dushku looked lovely in her new haircut (it’s a little “Charlie’s Angels” – kinda Farrah feathered). Who is Yoanna House and why doesn’t she eat (she’s frighteningly thin)? Amy Yasbeck was a vision in violet, a pretty contrast to her red hair.


Neiman Knows: Neiman Marcus is touting some fashion trends we’ve discussed here on the BeansTalk Newsletter. Here’s what they say is in: novelty Ts (like the ubiquitous Teenage Millionaire “Jesus is My Homeboy” shirts, and others), strapless, halter and sheath dresses, slip dresses, feminine prints, as well as black & white. Skirts and crop pants are still hot (that’s great about the latter – which are flattering and ideal for summer).


Lollapalooza : Danger Mouse has been officially added to the Lollapalooza lineup which includes Morrissey, the Flaming Lips, the Pixies, Sonic Youth, PJ Harvey, Le Tigre, Modest Mouse, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Von Bondies, The Walkmen, Datsuns, Sparta, String Cheese Incident, and Polyphonic Spree amongst many others. Lollapalooza begins July 14th in Auburn, Washington.

Still Celibate?: Today, the Catholic Church is in the throes of a crisis, with priests linked to cases of child sexual abuse worldwide. Could there be a link between these scandals and the enforced abstinence of Catholicism – the only major religion to mandate celibacy among its clergy? Exploring the socio-religious roots of celibacy around the globe, “Celibacy” provides new insights into the current controversy, featuring interviews with current and former celibates of the Catholic, Buddhist and Hindu faiths, as well as historians, scientists, psychologists and others, when it debuts Monday, June 28, 2004 at 10 p.m. on HBO. The America Undercover documentary is directed by Antony Thomas.

For Chocoholics and Then Some: Our friend Rachael Kelley tells about some of her faves: Pookie’s ColorBalm in Chocolate ($9) sophisticated and shiny, chocolate brown slick of color that’s jammed with all-natural moisturizers, and
decadent chocolate flavor. Don’t forget: 5% of each
Colorbalm sale benefits the national breast cancer
Foundation. This donation is NOT exclusive to
October’s Breast Cancer Awareness month—Pookie will
donate with every sale. www.pookiestore.com.

Essencia’s White Chocolate with Almonds Exfoliating
Soap ($8): A candy bar that actually helps your
hips! The fragrance of Chocolate, rich and creamy
Cocoa Butter, and mildly exfoliating crushed Almonds
make a sinfully delicious and non-caloric bathing
treat! www.essenciaonline.com.

Er’go Candle’s Chocolat ($30): Fragranced with
over 100 different fragrance oils, Chocolat is a
decadent, whipped dark chocolate mocha fragrance that
infuses real Cocoa Bean Oil with the keynotes of
mandarin, sandalwood, and saffron….www.ergocandle.com

And finally, for those who live in NYC, though it’s the opposite of a candy treat, Sea Change Healing Center in Manhattan offers a
wonderful 3-week diet detox program that helps rid
your body of allergens and toxins, and kick-starts
your inner wellness. It’s not a fast, rather, it’s
a hypoallergenic diet, under the supervision of a
naturopathic physician, that will restart your organs
of elimination (lungs, skin, liver, kidney, colon)
into optimum working condition. Benefits of detox
include increased energy and focus, reduced headaches,
reduced PMS symptoms, clearer skin, weight loss,
prevention of cellulite, and an overall feeling of
health. Sea Change suggests completing a detox
program four times a year, at the change of seasons,
to keep the body in optimum health. It’s a great way
to start a healthier lifestyle or eating regimen, and
many participants maintain the diet after the
three-week period is over, because they feel so
wonderful! It’s a great way to recover from the
barbecue and booze weekends of summer, and start fresh
in the fall. www.seachangehealing.com.



Cute Couple: Here’s a good pairing of appropriately charming good actors Scarlett Johansson and Topher Grace were photographed on the Set of "Synergy” in Little Italy. Both have such good timing and an engaging self-effacing manner, we think they’re a good combo.


Planning Ahead: Beautiful Futures latest clever kiddie t-shirt is “'One Day, I Will Be a Rock Star...Everything is Possible.' Check out www.beautifulfutures.com

Cannes Couture : Nicole Miller dressed Daryl Hannah for the Premiere of “Ladykillers” at the Cannes Film Festival. Hannah chose a stunning navy double face silk side drape gown and is from Ms. Miller’s Fall 2004 collection.


Dad’s Day TV: PATERNAL INSTINCT chronicles two years in the life of two New York men on their journey to become fathers when the Cinemax Reel Life documentary debuts Sunday, June 20, 2004 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Mark, a computer engineer, and Erik, a land conservationist, choose to pursue parenthood through surrogacy, a process increasingly considered by gay couples as an alternative to adoption.

The documentary is followed by “I Used to be a Filmmaker,” a documentary that features vignettes of Jay Rosenblatt's baby daughter Ella during the first two years of her life, from diaper changes to "DaDa" to baby's first steps, punctuated by tongue-in-cheek setup cards drawn from the filmmaker's vernacular, such as "Establishing Shot," "Soft Focus," "Hand-Held" and "Flashback."

Houston, Honey? : If you happen to be traveling to Houston this summer, consider staying at the Hotel Derek: Since opening in 2002 Hotel Derek. Gwyneth Paltrow, James Gandolfini, Cher, Beyonce Knowles and Andy Roddick have all stayed at the Derek. The principal designer of the hotel, Dayna Lee, designed the hotel with the needs of traveling celebrities in mind. Lee is co-founder and principal designer for Powerstrip, a multidisciplinary design studio headquartered in Hollywood, Calif. (they also designed the W Los Angeles Hotel). Lee’s work includes designing sets for Hollywood motion pictures and, given her experience with the exacting needs and tastes of traveling celebrities made her think about the ideal hotel guestroom.

Atomic Spies: On June 19, 1953, "Atom Spies" Julius and Ethel Rosenberg were executed by the U.S. government for "conspiracy to commit espionage." Today the Rosenbergs remain political icons, hailed as heroes or vilified as traitors. But who were the real people behind the controversy? Combining previously unseen family memorabilia, archival footage and modern-day interviews with those who remember them, “Heir to an Execution: A Granddaughter’s Story” follows the quest of Ivy Meeropol to understand her grandparents and the difficult choices they made when it debuts Monday, June 14, 2004 from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. on HBO. The poignant and revealing America Undercover documentary was a selection of this year's Sundance Film Festival.

Renaissance Man: 26-year-old soul singer Ricky Fanté makes a cameo appearance as a 1920's nightclub singer in "Their Eyes Were Watching God," an adaptation of the literary classic by Harlem Renaissance author Zora Neale Hurston. The film, the latest project from Harpo Films' "Oprah Winfrey Presents" franchise, stars Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry, and airs on ABC Television Network during the 2004-05 season. Fanté¹s debut album “Rewind” (July 13, 2004, Virgin Records) is a tribute to the sounds of classic Motown and Stax records. Fanté, who recently performed on the CBS Saturday Early Show and The Wayne Brady Show, can next be seen on Soul Train on May 22nd.


Check out Bob: It’s nice when you stumble onto a new television show that catches your attention (and with all those digital cable channels, it has to be pretty compelling!).

We’ve discovered “On the Record” with Bob Costas. Not being sports fans, we were familiar with his name, but not much more. He’s insightful, energetic, game and full of tons of trivia. He has organized the show well, as it includes sit down interviews (we were certainly surprised to hear that countculture icon Dennis Hopper is an avid Bush supporter now), his version of a “rant,” and “9 in 90” in which a mystery guest comes in to surprise him with nine questions which he tries to answer in 90 minutes.

Actress Kate Hudson, tennis great and TV commentator John McEnroe and musician Alanis Morissette head the guest list on this week's edition which debuts Friday, May 21, 2004, at 11 p.m. and repeats often throughout the week.

McEnroe talks to Costas about his house transaction agreement with talk-show legend Johnny Carson. McEnroe: "The deal was -- I overpaid for it, but that's a given in Malibu on the beach -- but he also threw in that I had to give him three tennis lessons, because he was a big tennis fan. I ended up giving him lessons and I tried to get him tired, because I knew he was a smoker, and he would stop after five or ten minutes and take a break because he wanted the full hour. So he was not only great at what he did, but he was smart, too. He took his time."


Fashion Finds

There were plenty of Latina lovelies at the 3rd Annual People En Espanol's "50 Most Beautiful" Gala at Splashlight Studios in NYC. Rosario Dawson chose a gorgeous strapless, a-lined skirt dress with a pink lace overlay. She kept her hair and makeup simple and natural.

Looking very va-va voom was Michelle Rodriguez, who chose a super low cut cowl neck that showed off her décolletage.

Very beautiful in a swirly tangerine and hot pink strapless fitted gown was Daynara Torres, whose husband Marc Antony may or may not be cuddling up (as well as engaged to) Jennifer Lopez. The tall beauty queen’s ex-husband is reportedly sweet, affectionate, but jockey-tiny and very clingy with J-Lo. Meanwhile, Torres looked happy and lovely and slender (and she’s a mum to two!).

We love how youthful – and natural – Mariel Hemingway looks. The mother of two teens was at 16th Annual AFSP Lifesavers Awards Dinner at Cipriani’s in NYC. Her dedication to yoga seems to really be paying off as she looked fantastic in an elegant black silk gown with a simple beaded choker necklace.

Meanwhile, in an equally glam black gala gown, Jerry Hall was at 2004 Cannes Film Festival at the "Bad Santa" and "Motorcycle Diaries" premieres. Hall showed off plenty of bling, including major chandelier earrings and a huge diamond ring.

Beat Poetry BUKOWSKI AT BELLEVUE will be available on DVD July 13, 2004 through Eclectic DVD. In the Spring of 1970, Charles Bukowski, then little known, packed his overnight bag, and took his first plane ride to the state of Washington to read at Bellevue Community College. Bukowski made a career of writing gritty short stories, poems, novels, and the occasional screenplay. This reading (only his fourth ever), laid the groundwork for his future success and was videotaped in black-and-white by students. The film then lay forgotten for 18 years. His favorite subjects: life among the drunken, the destitute, the degraded, and the debauched. After his poems were published in the Los Angeles Free Press in the mid-'50s, Bukowski began to gather a cult following. From there, he hit his most prolific period, producing more than 40 novels, countless poems, and short stories.

While the technical aspect of this film is shaky, the message given in this one-hour reading comes through loud and clear. This is Bukowski, at mid-life and at the beginning of a great career, reading powerfully and with grit and humor. At 60 mins. This retails for a bargain $19.99.

Featured Poems Include:
• Soup, Cosmos And Tears
• Another Academy
• The Lesbian
• A Last Shot on Two Good Horses
• Kaakaa and Other Immolations
• Fire Station (For Jane With Love)
• I Think of the Little Men
• My Father Was...
• The Night I Killed Tommy
• Drawing of a Band Concert on a Matchbox
• I Wanted To Overthrow The Government
• Something For The Touts, The Nuns, The
Grocery Clerks, And You

Saturday Night Soccer Fever: If you missed the theatrical release of “Bend it Like Beckham,” catch it this Saturday (May 22, 2004) on Cinemax at 10 p.m. In this sleeper
hit, the daughter of a traditional Anglo-Indian family challenges her parents and cultural stereotypes to pursue her dream of becoming a soccer player. Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley and Jonathan Rhys Meyers star in the inspiring coming-of-age comedy. Keira Knightley may have been the breakout star, but Nagra and even the often over-the-top Rhys Meyers are notable and charming.

Adios Angel: The finale of "Angel" was great -- if too short. It's always a good sign when a series leaves you wanting more. The ending was ambiguous, leaving room for the rumored "telefilms" the network is hoping to produce with creator Joss Whedon. Fans are clamoring. We see why.

Hump Day Harrumph: Today we thought it would be fun to do something different.

Devil’s Work : As fans of “News of the Weird” (and anything odd in general), this Reuters story was fascinating: By Jason Hopps LONDON (Reuters) - The world's first Internet church has fallen victim to a plague of virtual demons, some of whom have been logging on as Satan and unleashing strings of expletives during sermons.

The "Church of Fools" was launched last week as a unique chance for Christians to worship interactively by choosing a "3D" animated character who could kneel, sing hymns, talk to others, hear a sermon, or shout "Hallelujah."

The site attracts between 5,000 and 10,000 worshippers daily and those who log on can also give money to a collection plate via mobile phone.

But the temptation to misbehave has proved too much for some.
"We have had problems from a small number of worshippers, which happens in any Internet chat room, and we are bothered about individual harassment, which we are taking seriously," said the site's deputy editor, Stephen Goddard.

"We're increasing security day by day to eliminate the disruptive behavior, such as the profanity, but we're determined to carry on...At least we're not preaching to the converted," he added.

The Church, sponsored by the Methodist Church but organized by the multi-denominational "Ship of Fools" project, said it had removed a "shout" function where people could speak to the whole congregation. Some were using it to hurl abuse or yell: "Satan loves you."

The pulpit, altar and lectern areas will be closed to the public after some worshippers walked their animated character into those areas during sermons.

But the strongest measure against the unruly will be the online equivalent of damnation: wardens will be able to smite the wicked by instantly logging them out of the church if they misbehave.
"In a way, we are facing the same problems faced by the first preachers who met resistance when they moved into new communities," said Goddard.

"But the church has always expanded into new communities and some of those are to be found in cyberspace now, so we are determined to carry on."

The Church of Fools is found at www.shipoffools.com.

Wednesday Weirdies: (As reported by Reuters)
A German court convicted a police sergeant with a fetish for women's handbags on 15 counts of theft and sentenced him to two and a half years in jail, a court in the eastern town of Gera said Wednesday


Spectacles with a built-in memory could help forgetful humans, a German researcher who has built a prototype of the "memory spectacles" said on Wednesday.

A Los Angeles nurse found a stolen Stradivarius cello worth $3.5 million next to a dumpster and planned to turn it into a CD cabinet until she discovered it was the instrument the whole town was searching for, her lawyer says. (We love this one) : By Gina Keating

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A Los Angeles nurse found a stolen Stradivarius cello worth $3.5 million next to a dumpster and planned to turn it into a CD cabinet until she discovered it was the instrument the whole town was searching for, her lawyer says.

The "General Kyd" cello, made in 1684 and named for the man who brought it to England, was returned on Saturday to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, which owns it and offered a $50,000 reward for its return, attorney Ronald Hoffman said Tuesday.
Police said the cello was taken from the porch of principal cellist Peter Stumpf on April 24 by a thief riding a bicycle.
Three days later, nurse Melanie Stevens spotted the cello peeking from its silver case beside a dumpster while she waited at a red light. "She recognized it as a musical instrument case because she plays guitar. She wasn't thinking that it was old," Hoffman said.

Stevens, 30, asked a homeless man to help load it into her car and took it home to show her cabinetmaker boyfriend, Igal Asseraf, to see if he could fix a crack in it. "She said if you can't fix it, we can turn it into a CD case," Hoffman said.
"We are very lucky that Igal was not a person that works real quickly."

The instrument sat in the couple's spare bedroom until last Friday, when Stevens caught the end of a TV news report on the missing cello, and realized she had found the instrument that all of Los Angeles was looking for.

The couple met detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department's art theft detail, who interviewed them extensively to make sure they were not involved with the theft, the lawyer said.

They also contacted officials at the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association, who were "jubilant" at the rare instrument's return, Hoffman added.

He said Stevens was thrilled to learn that she may receive the $50,000 reward for not turning the cello into a CD case.
This qualifies as a weirdy bit, even though it’s covered in the photo wires as a news event. Held in London, the “Rear of the Year” Award went to Alex Best (and no, we don’t know who she is either).

Fashion Bits:

A beautiful Keira Knightley – the official spokesperson – helped celebrate Asprey Re-opens Bond Street Store in London yesterday. Knightley chose a beautiful, yet simple black strapless silk chiffon dress with a grosgrain ribbon belt and a full skirt. Of course, she carried a clutch to complete the look and a stunning Asprey necklace. It’s apparently a celeb affair, as also in attendance was Jade Jagger, creative director of the jewelry shop. A healthy-looking Molly Ringwald (in a pink print Pucci-style outfit) was also there, as was Prince Pavlos of Greece and wife Marie-Chantel, the Duchess of York, Elton John, Andrew Lloyd Weber, Sir David Frost and tongue-pierced Zara Phillips.

Despite the fact that the event was Book Launch of "Picture This: Debbie Harry and Blondie" by Mick Rock and the Blondie leader was in full attendance, photographers seemed fascinated by Courtney Love, sporting a little bit of the early Hole look (translated: vintage slip dress).

Film stars may be at Cannes, but everyone in TV is in NYC for the upfronts. ABC and the WB had their presentations yesterdays, with the requisite parties following.

TV Talk : We at BeansTalk love TV, and admittedly, watch too much. Late last night, I happened upon one of the queerest documentaries I’ve seen in a long time: “American Eunuchs,” which has to be seen to be believed. Catch it on Sundance if you have it. Here’s what the network says about it: Every year, hundreds of men voluntarily choose to be castrated in covert operations that take place in motel rooms and hidden surgical offices. Gian Carlo Guiducci and Franco Sacchi's unsettling yet not unsympathetic film introduces us to a number of men who have chosen this drastic option to achieve a sense of personal control or purity. Also interviewed is an 84-year-old Philadelphia doctor, who performs two or three such operations a week, and a Midwest "cutter" who uses tools purchased on the Internet and sterilized in a pressure cooker.

In terms of regular television, we can recommend some of our favorite series. Currently, we try not to miss BBC America’s “Jonathan Creek” and “Murphy’s Law” (at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Mondays), “Deadwood” (at 10 p.m. Sundays on HBO), “Penn & Teller’s Bullshit!” (at 10 p.m. Thursdays on Showtime). The latter is on at the same time as the cringingly good “The Office” (also at 10 p.m. Thursdays, but on BBC America).

Although there aren’t new episodes, if you haven’t seen “The Chris Isaak Show,” “Dead Like Me,” or “Carnivale,” or “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” they’re often in repeats on Showtime and HBO, respectively.

Fashion Facts: At last night's premiere of her film Soul Plane , Arielle Kebbel wore a tangerine dress by Elsie Katz Couture, an orange satin bustier style dress with lace hem. Brie Larson and Sara Paxton, also at the same premiere, were also wearing tangerine shades.

Last weekend, Nicole Richie appeared to do a Courtney Love and glammed up, even cutting short her eccentric hair extensions into a more conservative style.

You gotta give Mo'Nique snaps for being who she is. At last night’s “Soul Plane” premiere, she donned what can be best described as a 60s-baby doll nightgown.

Ashlee Simpson seems to be taking cues from Christina Aguilera, who went for the dark tresses to separate herself from Britney, Mandy and Ashlee’s older sis Jessica. Now Ashlee has gone for a country-singer style gypsy mullet, in black, as she appeared at MTV’s TRL. She’s blonde no more. Later, she coordinated with Jessie at the Introduce Ice Breakers' New Liquid Ice Breath Mints at Milk Studios in NYC, wearing silver grey flouncy tops over pants.

A subdued, softer and pretty Mariah Carey showed off her two best assets atop a black tank dress at Operation Smile's "Smile Collection" 2004 Couture Event at Whitney Museum's Robert J. Hurst Family Galllery in NYC

At NBC’s upfront at Radio City Music Hall yesterday, Drea DeMatteo went for a monochromatic look, in which her hair, her sunshades and her blouse all were the same shade of café au lait.

At that same event Heather Locklear was looking amazingly “REFRESHED,” even though she seemed afraid to fully smile. A cute baby doll flouncy top over jeans perpetuated the “youthful” glow and look.

In an outfit some may call goofy (or inspired by her brother, David Arquette), Patricia Arquette wore a bold bowling green and white plaid suit over white hose, shoes and shirt – and looked absolutely beautiful and darling. As a new mom, she even had that little extra sparkle. Another new mom (at the same NBC event), Kelli Williams looked curvy and gorgous in a sexy halter dress, also in shades of green and white.

Mary Stuart Masterson, at the premiere of “Something the Lord Made,” showed up with her usually blonde hair a deep red-brown, very pretty and very mature.

Terri Colombino, who plays Katie Peretti on As the World Turns, wore a spring dress from A Pea in the Pod for her red carpet appearance at the Daytime Emmy Craft Awards on Sunday evening. She chose a multi-colored pleated halter dress.

Skincare: Md Skincare and Dr. Dennis Gross Announce INTENSE BODY MOISTURE, a 3-in-1 product that they say Seals in Moisture and Provides Intense Hydration, Infuses Skin with Vitamins C, E, and Green Tea Extract, Helps to Reduce the Appearance of Rosacea and Red Bumps on the Skins Surface. "You want to minimize what you do to your skin. That's why I developed a unique product chemistry. It amplifies benefits and reduces ingredients overload." - Dr. Dennis Gross

Meanwhile, Dr. Howard Murad announced his “Wrinkle-Free Forever: The 5-Minute, 5-Week Dermatologist’s Program,” a trade paper available this week, for $14.95

Anti-Muppets: What channel did this air on in the U.S.? No where, apparently. But if you’re Canadian, or happened to catch this unique show on a visit, you might be interested: “Puppets who Kill” will be available on DVD on July 13, 2004. The release is the complete first season of the hit television series from Canada’s Comedy Network. It takes place in a halfway house for very bad puppets and features four felonious puppet inmates who are doing time with their human caseworker as they wait until that glorious day when they can be re-integrated back into society… but it’s not so easy. They’re conniving, dangerous, self-centered and bitter. They’re the anti-Muppets. The locals approve: “The writing is sharp and venal” – The Globe and Mail “Funny as hell” – The Toronto Star “Wonderfully sick and twisted” – The Toronto Sun

Not So Odd: Tony Randall, a comic fixture of our youth (we never missed “The Odd Couple” passed away, leaving behind a 50-years-younger wife, Heather and two children, aged 7 and 5. Having a six-year-old ourselves, we can’t imagine how hard it must be for Mrs. Randall. Our symphathies.

BeansTalk Blather: Perhaps we shouldn’t comment, given our son is called “Bean,” but what possessed Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin to name their baby Apple? The pictures of the baby and parents leaving hospital are lovely and cheery and pregnancy seems to have agreed with Paltrow’s locks, which suddenly seem rich and thicker.

Going Golfing : Toby Keith hosts the Toby Keith & Friends Golf Classic on May 23 and 24, 2004. The event, which benefits the newly-established Ally's House charity, will include a silent auction of items from sports, film, television and music stars, a golf tournament, and the chance for one golfer to win a Ford truck.

Celebrity players attending the tournament include Oklahoma Sooners’ Head coach Bob Stoops, former Sooners and NFL¹s Dallas Cowboy¹s coach Barry Switzer, CMT personality Cleddus T. Judd, country music singer/songwriter Blake Shelton, former Oklahoma and NBA basketball player and Jazz musician Wayman Tisdale, and New Mexio’s Governor Bill Richardson.

Ally’s House assists families of children with cancer, paying expenses including medical treatment, short term housing near hospitals, financial support covering lost wages, clothing, groceries, hospice and funeral expenses.

Fresh Fragrance: Once a secret scent (and favorite of celebs), Fresh Scents by Terri is now available at Sephora (as well as sephora.com) and on July 11, 2004, you’ll be able to buy the products at Nordstroms. Fresh Scents by Terri creates oils, lotions, body washes and bath & shower gels in five fragrances for women and one fragrance for men. Fans include Gwen Stefani, Heather Locklear, Jillian Barberie, Gail O'Grady, Amanda Bynes, and Rachel Hunter.

All of these are yummy; we can vouch:
Dream - Sweet and Earthy, Sexy and Strong: This fresh scent is an expressly superior blend of vanilla and fig. For the woman who wants to leave a serious impression, don’t go to bed without it.

LuLu - Unique, Captivating, Alluring: This bewitching fragrance has won the hearts of many with its unique combination of China Rain and Gardenia. The floral scent has a bold and beautiful presence that is, at the same time, subtly mysterious.

Oh Baby! - Sensual, Sophisticated, Irresistable: This hypnotic blend of China Musk and Pikaki will drive you (and him!) wild. A beautiful and long lasting scent with tropical undertones is simply irresistible.

Breathe - Fresh, Clean, Elegant: An exquisite combination of White Rain and Light Musk, this scent will take your breath away. This fragrance is invigorating and long lasting with a crisp, clean aroma that will have people stopping you in the streets. Perfect for day into evening.

Zoe - Soft, Sexy, Feminine: Customers swear by this scent which is a finely blended combination of Light Musk and Sheer Musk. If you like a soft, sexy, ultra-feminine fragrance, Zoe is the scent for you.

My Man - Sexy, Masculine, Fresh: Our first scent for men is a sexy, masculine blend of bergamot and soothing musks making this scent a must have for him and the perfect gift from her.

Gregory - Rugged & Sexy: This undeniably masculine blend of patchouli, ylang ylang, and leather highlights the rugged, sexy flavor of every man. For more info: www.FreshScentsbyTerri.com

Sweet 16 : Ah Britney was once sweet 16 herself, and now 16-year-old Capitol recording artist Skye Sweetnam will stay on for Spears European and second U.S. legs of her tour.

Sweetnam's debut album, “Noise From The Basement,” will be released later this summer and one of the tracks, "Imaginary Superstar," can be heard in the MGM movie “Sleepover,” which premieres July 9, 2004. Sweetnam’s already ahead of Brit-ster in that she’s directed a video for the track, which she shot in her bedroom using her brother's PLAYMOBIL® figures! Catch it at http://www.skyesweetnam.com.

The tour will be in Europe through June 6, 2004, and arrive in the U.S. June 22, 2004.

Defending Animals: Check out Ebay ID idaauction. Look for items used in popular reality shows and more. Most end tomorrow! Here’s the best part: proceeds go to In Defense of Animals was founded in 1983 and is a leading, non-profit organization dedicated to ending the exploitation and abuse of animals by defending their rights, welfare and habitats. IDA has more than 80,000 members and is committed to the welfare of animals through investigation, rescue and rehabilitation, public education, political and consumer advocacy and litigation. From working to protect the rights of America’s companion animals, to rescuing feral goats on Catalina Island, to fighting to end the horrific trade in dog meat in Korea, IDA’s campaigns reach far and wide. To learn more, please visit www.idausa.org or contact nicole@idausa.org

Fashion Facts : Carmen Electra wore a Sunny Choi gown to host the 4th Annual Taurus World Stunt Awards Sunday evening. Appearing onstage alongside co-host Dennis Hopper, she wore a deep purple satin halter gown with a ruched slit and cascading ruffle hem.

Saturday night, stars helped celebrate 25 years of artwork at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Three celebs selected to wear designs by Alber Elbaz for Lanvin for:

Chloe Sevigny chose Lanvin's black lace strapless dress with heart neckline and closed in the back with brass poppers.

Anjelica Huston wore a long evening skirt by Lanvin paired with her own classic white blouse. The night blue long ribbed skirt features a kick pleat held by a hook and eye providing a draped effect.

Kelly Lynch sparkled in Lanvin's brown silk satin wraparound dress that ties on the hip and is embroidered with coordinated sequins.

Why was Daryl Hannah looking especially glamorous and beautiful at Cannes? Perhaps because she had her hair styled by celeb stylist Laurent D., one of our faves.

Concert Draws Nearly Half-a-Million : 450,000 people crowded Rome’s Circus Maximus Sunday night for Quincy Jones’ “We Are the Future” concert to provide aid for children in war-torn areas.

Stereo Monoloators: One of our favorite local bands is doing a fun promotion: SONG OF THE MONTH club! Anyone can request that the Monolators play ANY song by ANY band (within reason) and they’ll try it! This month's request comes from Paul of Barstow, California, who asked for a cover of "Solitary Man" by Neil Diamond! Check it out at www.themonolators.com. Make your request at mail@themonolators.com.

The Monolators recently participated in a project/contest for TapeOp.com--an attempt to cover every entry on Blender Magazine's "50 Worst Songs" list! Their contribution is a fancy banjo version of "The End" by The Doors! Take a listen on www.themonolators.com!