BeansTalk Biz Newsletter

BeansTalk News: Daily news on fashion, beauty, film, television, books -- all media -- and anything else of relevant interest. (View the current month in its news entirety by clicking the date under Archives.)

Saturday, June 18, 2005

BeansTalk on Burt's Bees


Burt's Bees Peppermint Shower Soap

As you may know, weekend newsletter entries are often used for a little BeansTalk editorializing. While we've been fans of Burt's Bees lip balm (and the lip shimmers) for a long time now, we've recently discovered the benefits of the Peppermint Shower Soap, which offers an invigorating exfoliating bar that smells wonderful. Super effective and super price.Posted by Hello

Friday, June 17, 2005


Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise. Engaged this a.m. at the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Press conference announcing it shortly thereafter. BTW, she's embracing the Church of Scientology. Posted by Hello


Essencia

Customized Skin Care from Essencia

The composition of natural and organic skincare ingredients are always at the whim of Mother Nature -- each batch differs from the next, thanks to growing climate, soil quality, water, and even the time of day in which the ingredient was harvested. Just as with a natural ingredient, the composition of our skin is unique and individual due to differences in DNA, genetics, diet and lifestyle. This is why, no matter how many skin care choices there are on the market, it can often be difficult to find the perfect elixir to cleanse or treat skin and what works for one person might ravage another’s skin!

Essencia, the all-natural, essential oil-based skin, bath and home lifestyle company, has solved this problem by introducing Personal Product Customization. Co-founder and creator Juliana Lipe’s extensive study and expertise on the interplay of the skin with essential oils and botanicals has created the platform from which her in-depth knowledge in skin care treatment can be utilized to customize virtually any type of skin, hair or body care product to work with-not against-personal genetics and lifestyle.

Already incorporating Mother Nature’s best resources, like Green Tea, Oatmeal, Chamomile, Lemon and Lavender in Essencia’s retail product collections, Lipe offers consumers the opportunity to book a personal skin care analysis and consultation after which she will “cook up” custom skin care products as individual as the user’s skin. Personal Product Customization offers only the freshest, pure ingredients to address and treat the most basic or most pressing skincare issue.

Here’s how it works:

Essencia will customize every product the company produces, including their bar soaps, liquid cleansers, facial and body lotions, creams, body butters and balms, facial and body oils, facial and body scrubs and masks. Through a four-step process of phone consultation, product research, product formulation, and production, customers are assured a product formula created just for them. Client information is kept is a database, so reordering and extending product usage is as effortless as logging on to the Company’s website.

To begin, consumers can either visit the Essencia Web site, www.essenciaonline.com, and fill out a brief skincare survey, OR they can call the company’s 800# directly, and set up a phone consultation with Juliana Lipe. After gathering information on the customer’s current skincare regimen, their skincare issues and concerns, likes, dislikes and allergies, Lipe will custom-blend the skin or bath product of their choice. Consumers receive custom products within four to six weeks. Refill orders ship two to four weeks from time of order.

Essencia prides itself in customer satisfaction. If, for any reason, a client does not like their custom blend, he or she will be offered the opportunity for a refund of product value, and Essencia will work with the customer on a reformulation at a discounted rate.

The initial fee for the custom product is $250 per product and includes a phone consultation to determine product type and a clinical evaluation of the customer’s needs, research and development. The customer will receive two units of the custom formulation. For subsequent refills, clients will only pay for the product itself.

Refill prices vary depending on the type of product and types of oils and ingredients used, but the starting (remember these are only starting) prices for refills are listed below--The final purchase price will be determined by the factors above. Prices do not include shipping.

Starting prices for refills:
Essential Oil bar soaps -- $15
Scrubs and Masks -- $26
Facial and body lotions and creams -- $32
Body butter and balms -- $32
Liquid cleansers -- $35
Facial and body oils -- $40

All Essencia products, and Essencia customized products are made of the finest natural ingredients and essential oils. Essencia skincare can be found at specialty beauty stores and spas nationwide, and on www.essenciaonline.com. To begin the customization process, visit www.essenciaonline.com, or call 866-568-5848.

Posted by Hello


Alicia Silverstone (AP Photo/John D McHugh)


Silverstone Weds

Actress Alicia Silvstone tied the knot with longtime beau, musician Christopher Jarecki, June 11, 2005 wearing a gown by Monique Lhuillier. Silverstone selected a strapless ivory caricata satin gown with a mermaid silhouette, accented with a sage green ribbon sash. She completed her look with a veil, service provided by Monique Lhuillier, with hand beaded stones spelling the couples' initials "C A" as a finishing touch. She’s seen in the above photo at the British Academy Film Awards in London's Leicester Square, on Feb. 15, 2004. The wedding was in Lake Tahoe, Calif.

Posted by Hello


Ginnifer Goodwin (wireimage photo)

Ginnifer Goodwin in wore Moschino to Premiere’s New Power party. Goodwin chose a metallic bronze T-Back dress from the Fall Moschino Collection.

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In Other Fashion and Beauty News:

Nicole Miller dressed actress/singer Hilary Duff for her appearance on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno on June 13, 2005, a silk twill Viking scarf print strapless dress by Nicole Miller from the Fall 2005 Collection.

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Denim options from Jelessy, Reo Starr, and Rampage Stores.

Jelessy jeans come in a wide color palette and an array of washes, hem styles, and linings. Avaiable at M. Fredric, Polkadots and Moonbeams in West Hollywood, Michael Nuskern, The Look, Red Balloon, Erin Ashley in Orange County.

Reo Starr’s jeans draw their style from the influence of rock ‘n’ roll legends like Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix. The lines are named for rock icons who immediately convey an attitude. The “Tyler” jean is named for Steven Tyler, the “Sinatra” for Nancy and of course “Fender” for the legendary guitar. Available at Planet Blue in Malibu, Lisa Kline on Robertson, Fred Segal in Santa Monica (Sharon Segal), Carmen Parks Boutique in Huntington Beach, and Erica Dee in Corona Del Mar.

Rampage Stores carries Hippie, See Thru Soul, Indie, Marlow, and Blue 2 denim labels. Rampage Stores are nationwide, visit www.rampagestores.com for store locations.

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Clarins Newest Sunscreen

Clarins introduces UV Plus Protective Day Screen SPF 40, a product that utilizes 100% mineral filters and helps protect against intermittent sun exposure and its harmful UVA and UVB rays that can damage skin. It’s designed to provide ultimate coverage during periodic exposure to sunlight when the skin is unable to trigger its own natural defense mechanism.

As reported in the New York Times Style Section on Thursday, June 9th, 2005, the difference between UVA and UVB light is a matter of wavelength. UVA rays come in longer wavelengths, so they pass through the outer layer of skin, rather than burning it as do the shorter UVB rays.UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, or lower layer of skin, where they can break down collagen and other proteins that keep the skin plump and firm.

UV Plus Protective Day Screen SPF 40 is formulated with micronized and micro-dispersed Titanium Dioxide and White Tea, a precious plant particularly rich in flavonoids- antioxidant compounds that trap free radicals. These carefully selected ingredients ensure that UV Plus Protective Day Screen SPF 40 addresses the concern of aging, wrinkles, sagging skin, brown spots, and yellow discoloration associated with sun damage to the skin.

The New York Times also states that unlike UVB light, prevalent only when the sun is high in the sky- UVA light is virtually inescapable. That means it not only penetrates car windows and T-shirts, but it also reaches the skin during fog, rain and even blizzard. Most importantly, the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays are prevalent 365 days of the year.

Therefore, UV Plus Protective Day Screen SPF 40 is a must have product year round. The application is quick, easy and simple and will not affect ones daily skin care regime. UV Plus Protective Day Screen SPF 40 is conveniently worn over day cream, under make-up and does not need to be reapplied throughout the day. It also provides reinforced protection against pollution during peak times, which occur when the temperature rises. UV Plus Protective Day Screen SPF 40 1.06 oz $36.50

Posted by Hello



Newly engaged Paris Hilton was spotted wearing a hot-pink Jelessy denim blazer. Jelessy is available at www.jelessycollection.com.

Posted by Hello


Creative Nail Design's SolarOil

Hatcher and Catrall Get Pampered in the U.K.

London-based Creative Nail Design nail techs Marian Newman and Samuel Sweet pampered and primped the fingers and toes of Teri Hatcher and Kim Cattrall, respectively, last week. The stars were in London for the Glamour Magazine Awards. Both actresses chose a fresh, minimalist look for summer.

“Both Teri and Kim have gorgeous hands and natural nails so we chose to perform meticulous manicures and buff the nails to an extra high shine with a Girlfriend Buffer. We wanted the hands to really glow, to bring out their summer color so we “ultra-moisturized” by massaging the hands and arms with lots of SolarOil which creates a sexy sheen on the skin.” - Samuel Sweet and Marian Newman, Creative Nail Design UK

Kim chose sheer pink perennial favorite “Negligee” for her toes and Teri chose creamy chocolate/lavender “Cocoa” for hers.

“’Cocoa’ has been in Creative Nail Design’s permanent collection for many years – Teri is extremely fashion-forward! We are predicting the mauve and light brown palette as a strong trend for Fall 2006!” - Jan Arnold, Co-Founder and Style Director, Creative Nail Design
Posted by Hello


Dr. Debra Price

Cellulite: A Tenacious Menace
Your Three-Step Attack

“Unfortunately, good deeds are not enough when it comes to cellulite,” says Dr. Debra Price, a Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at the University of Miami, a private practitioner in South Miami, and adviser to the American Cellulite Task Force.* “A healthy diet and regular exercise can assist in reducing the appearance of cellulite by decreasing the volume of fat cells but they cannot actually rid you of cellulite. Anatomical differences in fat distribution and compartmentalization in the thigh and buttock area in men and women make this fat resistant to diet and exercise alone.”

If reducing calories and increasing exercise aren’t enough, what can help?

According to Price – there are a number of ways to reduce the appearance of cellulite, and some of them are especially effective when used in combination. She recommends a three-pronged approach that involves Endermologie, a machine assisted deep tissue massage technique from France, the topical use of retinoids to thicken the dermis and “camouflage” cellulite, along with regular exercise and proper diet which includes the elimination of excess salt to decrease water retention.

Endermologie has FDA clearance as an effective way to temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite, with maintenance sessions recommended to sustain results. Endorsed by physicians and skin care professionals across the U.S. and supported by independent clinical studies and laboratory research, Endermologie targets connective tissue beneath the dermis. Because it boosts microcirculation and stretches the subcutaneous septae, or fibrous bands, the fat loses its “quilted” look.

The appearance of cellulite can also be minimized with the topical application of retinoids such as Retin-A and Tazarac, which help to stimulate collagen production and therefore thicken the dermis. According to Price, this produces a “camouflage” effect that will make cellulite less noticeable. Patients have been pleased with the combination of this strategy with a series of Endermologie sessions, which addresses the cellulite itself.

Finally, Price recommends following a healthy diet that includes reduced salt intake, and thereby decreasing water retention, which exacerbates the swollen appearance of fat cells.

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*The American Cellulite Task Force is a multidisciplinary group of physicians from across the U.S., established to provide media, consumers and aesthetic professionals with the latest research, education and advocacy on cellulite.


About Dr. Price:

Price received her medical degree from New York University School of Medicine. She was awarded the American Medical Woman's Association Award for scholastic achievement and was elected to membership in the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Society in 1980.

She received her dermatology training at the University of Miami and is a board certified dermatologist. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, a Fellow of the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery and a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Miami Department of Dermatology. She is also a member of the Dade County Medical Association, Florida Medical Association and the Florida Society of Dermatology. In private practice since 1985, she is past president of the Miami Dermatologic Society.

Price was voted a top physician by her peers by South Florida Magazine in 1997, and by Miami Metro Magazine in 1998 and 1999. She has been featured in Self, Allure, Cosmopolitan, Mirabella, Selecta, Women's World Redbook and W Magazine and has appeared on local television on channels 4, 6, 10, Univision and Wami concerning cosmetic skin care, Botox, peels, endermologie, acne, nail treatments, sunscreens and more.

She was also featured in the Doctors Book of Home Remedies and the book, Natural Prescriptions for Women where she offered practical advice on anti-aging skincare and skin rejuvenation.

She is a preceptor for Women of Tomorrow, and a member of the advisory board of the Dermatology Foundation and the advisory board of Women's Center at Baptist Hospital. She specializes in general and cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. Posted by Hello

Thursday, June 16, 2005


Little Britain returns on BBC America

Little Britain Back in a Big Way

BBC America transports the inhabitants of Little Britain to the U.S. premiering Wednesdays from August 17, 2005 at 9 p.m. ET\ 10 p.m. PT.

Fresh from winning double honors at this year's BAFTAs (UK equivalent of the Emmys) Little Britain, written and performed by two UK's comics - Matt Lucas and David Walliams - is a voyage of discovery that turns the spotlight on all that is mad, bad, quirky and crazy about the people and places in Britain.

The character based comedy sketch show is populated by a bizarre set of misfits representing the frightening debris of modern British life. These include Daffyd who jealously guards his status as the only gay man in his village; Marjorie Dawes, a terrifying Fat Fighters group leader; Emily Howard, a totally unconvincing transvestite, incomprehensible teenager Vicky Pollard and a British Prime Minister (Anthony Stewart Head of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Manchild) who tries to avoid the sexual advances of his aide, Sebastian Love.

This season a fresh group of faces add to the colorful cast of characters:

* Bubbles, the pampered, obese wife of a mysteriously absent businessman.
* Harvey, a prosperous young man still attached to his mother, much to his fiancée's horror.
* Judy and Maggie, genteel ladies who haven't embraced the concept of diversity.
* Rachel and Nicola, young women who keep very personal Polaroids of their dates.
* Doug, the bogus drugs counselor.
* Carol, the bank teller who takes financial advice from her talking computer.
* Florence, a new friend for bad transvestite Emily Howard.

Providing a commentary to guide us through the madness and mayhem is former Doctor Who Tom Baker.

Little Britain has garnered huge critical acclaim and numerous awards including three BAFTAs. Season two swept the board at the British Comedy Awards (beating The Office Christmas Special) to add to its already prestigious collection of prizes.

British viewers have found the painfully accurate portrayal of their homeland so infectious that catch phrases have been absorbed into the national lexicon and are repeated in homes, pubs and schools around the country. A live UK tour (October 2005 to March 2006) was an instant sell-out with tickets being sold on Ebay for five times their face value.

Little Britain's legions of fans includes Hollywood star Johnny Depp who has asked Lucas and Walliams if he can appear in the show.

Little Britain: The Complete First Series is available on a 2-disc DVD set on August 16, 2005 for $29.98.

Posted by Hello

Sale at Suss


Suss Poncho

Sale Now Knitwear 30% - 50% OFF Selected Yarns On Sale

Suss Design

7350 Beverly Blvd. Los Angeles CA 90036 tel: 323-954-9637 fax: 323-954-9674

email: sales@sussdesign.com web: www.sussdesign.com

Posted by Hello

Wednesday, June 15, 2005

John Sahag: Dies of Cancer


John Sahag at work in September 2003.
CREDIT: J. GRAYLOCK/JPISTUDIOS

[BeansTalk interviewed Sahag many times and liked him very much -- a very gracious man.]

From PEOPLE.com

Star Hair Designer John Sahag Dies of Cancer

Wednesday Jun 15, 2005 5:00pm EST

By Stephen M. Silverman

Celebrity hair designer John Sahag – who prepared such clients as Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, Jennifer Lopez , Sarah Jessica Parker and Drew Barrymore for their major magazine shoots – died of cancer on Wednesday, a representative tells PEOPLE. He was 51.

Born in Lebanon and raised in Sydney, Australia, Sahag set off for Paris at age 18 and soon received a credit in Italian Vogue. Over time, he would work with such internationally renowned photographers as Richard Avedon, Patrick Demarchelier, Helmut Newton, Irving Penn and Albert Watson.

He was also credited with giving actress Kirsten Dunst her famous five-inch cropped cut – a look he repeated on Maggie Gyllenhaal. Sahag also did Demi Moore's famous boy cut in 1990's Ghost.

"Cutting and shaping hair is a very personal and intimate experience for me," Sahag once said. He opened his own New York salon, The John Sahag Workshop on Madison Avenue, in 1985 and launched his own product line in 1998.

Other famous heads he shaped included those on Gwyneth Paltrow, Courteney Cox Arquette, Gretchen Mol, Brooke Shields, Sandra Bullock, Winona Ryder and Bruce Springsteen. Posted by Hello

Crusin' In Sunshades


Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise, seen above, at Tokyo Airport, where he’s promoting his “War of the Worlds” feature, which premieres June 29, 2005. He’s wearing Sama Eyewear, the “Vent” frame in gold ($300). Available at Destination: Sama 8460 Santa Monica Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90069 www.samaeyewear.net 877-788-SAMA. Also at Robert Marc in New York. Posted by Hello


New from Marjorie Baer jewelry for the fall line. Her collection can be found at Nordstrom and at other stores. Visit www.marjoriebaer.com for more information.Posted by Hello


Celebs love Mr. Cecil's in Sherman Oaks


Good Eatin' Celeb Style

There was a time when celebs who loved ribs flocked to Dr. Hogly Wogly's Tyler Texas Barbeque in the San Fernando Valley (we saw Meg Ryan there once, a very long time ago.

These days, however, they're going to Mr. Cecil's California Ribs in Sherman Oaks. Look who's been in recently...

A very pregnant Maya Rudolph enjoyed a late dinner at Mr. Cecil's California Ribs in Sherman Oaks on Sunday, June 12, 2005. She and four gentlemen dined on BBQ chicken, hush puppies, grilled corn on the cob with a chili-lime butter.

Tim Allen was in Monday, June 13, 2005, and ordered the baby back ribs, cole slaw and a Jonathan's sampler platter. Allen sipped on a Coke with lime while a lady in his party of four people ordered a Fat Bastard Shiraz from the wine list. When the red wine arrived she exclaimed with surprise "Don't you guys have a little white bastard?"

Flava Flav went there recently, with a bevy of beauties, and dined at Mr. Cecil's California Ribs in Sherman Oaks and enjoyed Mr. Cecil's BBQ chicken, baby back and beef ribs.

Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey ordered Mr. Cecil's BBQ chicken, baby back and beef ribs, flourless chocolate mousse cake and a pecan pie to be delivered to a party at a friend's home in Calabasas, CA.

George Eads (Nick Stokes) of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and a petite blonde shared a lunch of catfish nuggets, hushpuppies, corn on the cob with chili lime butter and a chicken breast sandwich recently.

Adam Sandler, joined by his wife and mom, also dined recently at Mr. Cecil's California Ribs in Sherman Oaks. They enjoyed racks of baby back ribs and BBQ chicken. During dinner three young boys approached Sandler for his autograph. He obliged. Mr. Cecil's Sherman Oaks’ manager Jaime Coyle says "Mr. Sandler is a great tipper and we just love him". Posted by Hello

Tuesday, June 14, 2005


Tesoro's Diamond Heart Pendant Posted by Hello

Tesoro: Hottest Jeweler in Hollywood

In a world where people have more money than 99.9% of the world, jewelry is a critical element in the world of Hollywood. As reported today, Marc Anthony, thrilled Jennifer Lopez has been married to him for an entire year, gave her a $1 million diamond anniversary ring. Red Carpet denizens are often sporting big bling from Neil Lane, Martin Katz, Rafinity are just some of the jewelers popular with celebrities.

But there’s a new kid on the block: Tesoro

That pretty Tesoro rose gold floating diamond heart pendant necklace in the photo above was given actress/singer Hilary Duff from her boyfriend Joel Madden, lead singer of the rock band Good Charlotte.

Tesoro fans include Ashton Kutcher, Jessica Alba, Lindsay Lohan, Michael Jackson, Lebronn James, Missy Elliott, Biz Markie, Mekhi Pfifer and other celebrities in music, TV, film and sports.

Tesoro (which means "treasure" in Italian) is a collection of floating diamond pieces (pendants and cufflinks). BeansTalk has the teardrop pendant in the photo below. The company is finalizing the details of a program with the Step Up organization (women in the entertainment industry) to partner with them to donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Tesoro collection to Ovarian Cancer research.

In the last two weeks Tesoro pieces have been given to Hilary & Haylie Duff, Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas and Alicia Keys. At the MTV Movie Awards in LA, Ally Sheedy wore a Tesoro teardrop necklace as she received an award with Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall for "The Breakfast Club." MTV VJs Suchin, Sway and Coltrane all wore pieces from the collection along with Jason of Beverly Hill's (of Tesoro) floating-diamond watch line called Dunamis. Wilmer Valderrama of "That 70's Show" wore a $100,000 Dunamis watch to the MTV Movie Awards.

Both Haylie Duff and Fergie from BEP are currently wearing the Tesoro purse (Haylie and Fergie each have a platinum purse with diamonds). Alicia Keys has a platinum Tesoro heart pendant.


Tesoro's teardrop floating diamond necklace (BeansTalk has one!)

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Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony at the Monster-in-Law premiere. (Steve Granitz, WireImage.com)


Anthony Gives Lopez With a $1 Million
Diamond Anniversary Ring

Marc Anthony gave wife Jennifer Lopez a diamond anniversary present, reports www.contactmusic.com. Anthony gave his bride of one year a $1 million dollar diamond anniversary ring. The diamond anniversary ring is from jeweler Neil Lane and, according to a friend, she could not be happier, reports www.contactmusic.com. "It's huge, and it sparkles beyond belief. Jennifer was very excited to get it." The couple celebrated their one year anniversary on June 5, 2005.

This is the second marriage (of her three), in which Lopez has stayed married for at least a year. She was married to Ojani Noa from 22 February 1997 to 1 January 1998, and to Filipino-American Cris Judd from 29 September 2001 to 26 January 2003. She also had a high-profile relationship and engagement to actor Ben Affleck – he gave her a pink diamond engagement ring, setting off a trend in colored diamonds.


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In Other Diamond News

Martin Katz jewelry was popular at the Women in Film 2005 Crystal and Lucy Awards, which honors creative alliances in the entertainment industry.

Here’s who wore Katz jewelry:

Garcelle Beauvais

Long cushion cut diamond drop earrings 18 carats $125,000

Three diamond bracelets $19,000

Jennifer Coolidge

Micro set diamond drop earrings $59,000

Diamond cuff bracelet 20 carats $75,000

Diamond five row bracelet 32 carats $105,000

Cybil Shepard

Diamond hoop earrings with briolette drops $17,500

Diamond bangle bracelet with 44 carats of diamonds $185,000

Diamond Chain necklace 85 carats $220,000

Linda Cardellini

Diamond and aquamarine pendant necklace $45,000

Diamond drop earrings $30,000

Robin Weigert

Long oval diamond drop earrings 16 carats $65,000



Mandy Moore (REUTERS/Fred Prouser)

Singer and actress Mandy Moore wore H.Stern Jewelers to Fusion, the 2005 Crystal & Lucy Awards presented by Women in Film. She wore earrings from the Tennis Collection: 22 diamonds at 2.91 carats, $10,800, and a ring from the Essential Pearl collection: 1 pearl surrounded by diamonds, $5,900.

Posted by Hello


The Backyardigans

Nick Jr. Show Backyardigan's
New Adventure


Nick Jr.’s The Backyardigans will take a musical adventure from the frozen North to the high seas this summer with the premiere of the new special “Race to the Tower of Power” on Monday, July 18, 2005 at 11 a.m. (all times ET/PT) on Nick Jr. The episode’s action is set to a salsa beat, with four original songs and real choreographed movements recreated in animation.

Brown Johnson, Executive Creative Director, Nickelodeon Preschool Television says, “The Backyardigans’ super-imaginative expeditions are designed to inspire little kids’ own adventures in their backyards.”

In “Race to the Tower of Power,” Pablo and Tyrone are super-villains who want to rule the world, but Uniqua and Austin are superheroes out to stop them. Their salsa music-themed adventure takes them to the forest, the frozen North and the high seas – all in a race to see who is the first to get to the Tower of Power.

The special will be preceded by the July 12, 2005 release of the first-ever collection of songs from The Backyardigans from Nick Records/Sony Bmg Music Entertainment. The album features many song favorites from the series, all from different musical genres including reggae, jazz and opera.

Each of The Backyardigans animated dance steps are choreographed by Beth Bogush, a former director of the Alvin Ailey Dance School’s children’s program and performed by real dancers whose movements are then recreated in animation. The show’s rich animation style features lush, fantasy backgrounds created with CGI and 3D techniques.

In every episode of The Backyardigans, five neighbors meet in their adjoining backyards and use their imaginations to transform themselves into different locations for epic adventures. The Backyardigans are: Pablo, an energetic, enthusiastic and excitable penguin; Pablo’s best friend Tyrone, an easy-going, confident young moose; Uniqua, a one-of-a-kind character with an adventurous nature; Tasha, a deceptively sweet and girlish hippo; and Austin, a resourceful and shy kangaroo. The Backyardigans airs regularly weekdays on Nick Jr. at 11 a.m. and weekends on CBS (check local listings). Posted by Hello

Fashion News

Jada Pinkett Smith went to the French premiere of the animated film Madagascar yesterday in a dress by Monique Lhuillier, a coral chiffon halter dress with ruching through the waist and a tiered ruffle hem.


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NBC's Crossing Jordan Jill Hennessy attended The Phoenix House Benefit honoring Jeff Zucker in a dress by designer David Rodriguez, a vibrant jewel tone purple ruffle front jersey dress.


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George Lopez star Constance Marie attended the 19th annual Achievement Awards in an outfit by designer David Rodriguez. She chose a teal jersey off-the-shoulder top paired with a white leather pencil skirt with side slit.


Sunstuff

Headgear

SunStuff’s new line of 100% sun-proof SunStuff Cinch hats take the guesswork out of sizing because of an adjustable crown strap that makes one size fit all—from extra-small to extra-large.

As with all SunStuff products, these hats utilize a fabric developed for NASA to block 100% of the sun’s UVA (“aging”) and UVB (“burning”) rays. The hats launch this month.

Since the company launched in 2001, its combination of efficacy and style has earned the brand a loyal following in fans such as Portia de Rossi, Lisa Rinna and Allison Janney, as well as skin specialists from the Mayo Clinic and the John Wayne Cancer Institute. SunStuff hats also meet the standards for sun protection from the American Academy of Dermatology and NASA.

SunStuff Cinch hats for women and teens retail for $49.99 at specialty stores nationwide and online at www.wearsunstuff.com. Posted by Hello




Fiestaware's Newest Color: Peacock

Fiestaware introduces a new color each year (last year was the very pretty Scarlet) and this year, in August, they'll offer Peacock. Pre-order the color at www.mega-co-inc.com/Peacock/peacockpreorder.htmlPosted by Hello


Matthew Settle and Tonantzin Carmelo (AP Photo/TNT & DreamWorks, Alex Berliner)

Matthew Settle and Tonantzin Carmelo seen above at the west coast premiere of TNT and DreamWorks Television's 'Into the West' miniseries at the Director Guild Theater in Los Angeles Wednesday, June 8, 2005. The pair play central characters in the six weekly two-hour films from executive producer Steven Spielberg, which spans 65 years of U.S. history -- 1825 to 1890 -- embracing big events like the Gold Rush, the building of the transcontinental railroad and the Indian massacre at Wounded Knee. The initial chapter premiered on TNT Friday, June 10, 2005. Carmelo carried an antique burma suede clutch and wore burma suede heels by Rodo.


Donnie and Johnny Van Zant

All Rocker Wants To Do is Fish

Donnie Van Zant says there's nowhere he’d rather be than fishing for large-mouth bass off his 18 1/2 foot Hydra Sport Boat on a lake in Western Florida. His brother Johnny, in addition to being the other half of the sibling duo Van Zant, is also a passionate fisherman.

Recently, Donnie put aside his music career and spent a few minutes talking fish. He shared a few of his favorite Florida fishing holes, from Lake Okeechobee to McGirts Creek in Jacksonville, his favorite reel (an Ambassador 5500), and even a few of his fishing secrets (the best places to catch bass are shaded -- under a dock is ideal).

Donnie admitted to being a freshwater man all the way, preferring to be in sight of land at all times. Sometimes he enjoys wade fishing in shallow water, but explains, “Florida has a lot of gators and snakes -- I like to stay in the boat.” Whether he’s fishing from the bank or the boat, in Jacksonville with brother Johnny or in South Florida with Larry Junstrom (the bassist for Donnie’s other band, .38 Special [Note: .38 Special was once a BeansTalk guilty pleasure]), the soundtrack is always the same: the local country radio station, turned way down.

While Donnie has had more than his share of musical success, he’s still waiting for fishing glory. “The largest bass I’ve ever caught was about nine pounds,” he confesses, “I’m still trying to get that trophy fish.”

Van Zant’s new album ‘Get Right With The Man’ was released on May 10, 2005 (Columbia Nashville); the guys’ single “Help Somebody” is climbing the Billboard “Hot Country Songs” chart and is currently at #20 this week. Posted by Hello

Monday, June 13, 2005


Michael Patrick King (creator/exec producer) and Lisa Kudrow (co-creator/star/exec producer) of HBO's The Comeback

The Comeback - July Episode Guide

Episode #5: "Valerie Demands Dignity"
Debut date: Sunday, July 10, 2005 at 9:30 p.m.
Other HBO playdates: July 11 (10:00 p.m.), 13 (10:30 p.m.), 14 (11:30 p.m.) and 29 (8:30 p.m.)
HBO2 playdates: July 10 (1:30 a.m.) and 16 (11:00 p.m.)
Valerie (Lisa Kudrow) worries that her comeback storyline isn't "enough," as the network tries to spice up her reality show by cross-breeding it with another one, and by pulling a highway prank that nearly sabotages Valerie's lunch with a TV Guide editor; at home, Mark (Damian Young) is increasingly frustrated by the restraints the ubiquitous cameras have imposed on their sex life.

Written by Linda Wallem; directed by Greg Mottola.

Episode #6: "Valerie Saves the Show"
Debut date: Sunday, July 17, 2005 at 9:30 p.m.
Other HBO playdates: July 18 (10:00 p.m.), 20 (10:30 p.m.), 21 (11:30 p.m.) and 29 (9:00 p.m.)
HBO2 playdates: July 17 (1:30 a.m.) and 23 (11:00 p.m.)
With the cast in a funk after a lackluster premiere, Valerie tries to boost morale with a late-night cookie delivery that gives new meaning to her trademark line, "I don't want to see that!"; Mickey (Robert Michael Morris) accuses Valerie of sharing details about his private life with Juna (Malin Akerman); and Valerie tries to persuade Shayne (Kimberly Kevon Williams) to see her reality show in a different "light."

Written by Michael Schur; directed by Greg Mottola.

Episode #7: "Valerie Gets a Very Special Episode"
Debut date: Sunday, July 24, 2005 at 9:30 p.m.
Other HBO playdates: July 25 (10:00 p.m.), 27 (10:30 p.m.), 28 (11:30 p.m.) and 29 (9:30 p.m.)
HBO2 playdates: July 24 (1:30 a.m.) and 30 (11:00 p.m.)
Excited about a "Room and Bored" episode dedicated to her character, Valerie pulls some strings to get a "name" actor to play Aunt Sassy's romantic interest; and Mark's behavior at the Viper Room brings to light intimacy issues that are ultimately too hot for the camera.

Written by John Riggi; directed by Michael Lehmann.

Episode #8: "Valerie Relaxes in Palm Springs"
Debut date: Sunday, July 31, 2005 at 9:30 p.m.
Other HBO playdates: Aug. 1 (10:00 p.m.), 3 (10:30 p.m.), 4 (11:30 p.m.) and 25 (9:00 p.m.)
HBO2 playdate: July 31 (1:30 a.m.)
Valerie and Mark head to the desert for a long weekend at a Palm Springs resort, with strings attached; and while Mark draws the line with Jane's (Laura Silverman) crew on the golf course, Valerie finds a new mentor in an old acquaintance.

Written by Linda Wallem and Michael Patrick King; directed by Michael Lehmann.

The Comeback is created by Michael Patrick King and Lisa Kudrow; executive produced by Michael Patrick King, Lisa Kudrow, John Melfi and Dan Bucatinsky; co-executive producers, Linda Wallem and John Riggi; producer, Denis Biggs; producer, Amy Harris; co-producer, Mike Schur; casting, Liberman/Patton Casting. The Comeback is an HBO Entertainment Production in association with Working Class, Is Or Isn't Entertainment and Warner Bros. Television.
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Lifetime tells Amber Frey's story

Amber Frey's Side of the Story

Amber Frey: Witness For The Prosecution airs Tuesday, June 21, 2005 at 9 p.m. on Lifetime. The telefilm is based on a true story and a book. Amber Frey thinks that she has met the man of her dreams when she begins dating Scott Peterson. However, one night she sees Scott on the news talking about his pregnant, missing wife Laci. Amber realizes that Scott has been lying to her and offers to help the police investigation. She records her conversations with Scott and helps the police build the case against Scott for the murder of Laci and their unborn son. Starring Janel Maloney and Nathan Anderson. Posted by Hello


Yuko System's Repair Through

New Yuko System Product

Yuko System's Repair Through is a new conditioning spray to use before blow-drying dry & damaged hair. It’s effective for excessive split ends. Reps say it revitalizes hair, which is detangled and protected from breakage.

Spray on wet/damp hair and comb through before blow-drying. Hair becomes smooth and protected from heat because of amino acids and keratin. The extra protein also prepares for flat ironing and heat styling.

Ancient Chinese believed that gold was the key to eternal youth and longevity: Yuko System uses real gold to bring harmony and balance to hair, using their Aqua Gold soluble water in their Kokoro G Series products. Repair Through is the newest addition to this home care line, which includes professional Kokoro G water for stylists, Kokoro G Shampoo & conditioner (now available in a convenient tube as well as the economical tub).

Repair Through is an improved version of Yuko System's older Blow Dry Essence. For how to care correctly for hair ("Never rub your hair forcibly by wrapping your head with a towel") log onto: www.yukosystemusa.com/homecare. 6.8 fluid ounces for a retail price of $24.00. Sold online at www.yukosystem.com or call 877-YUKO-SYS.
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Dr. Michael Baden

Dr. Michael Baden, Former NYC Chief Medical Examiner
Dips Into HBO's "Autopsy" E-Mail Bag To Serve As
A "Court Of Last Resort"

In 1994, HBO launched the "Autopsy" series, hosted by Dr. Michael Baden, former chief medical examiner of New York City. The first documentary series on forensic science, "Autopsy" was a success, paving the way for the host of other forensic shows -- documentary and drama - that followed, and igniting a cultural phenomenon that continues today.

Debuting Saturday, July 9, 2005 at 10 p.m. the America Undercover presentation Ask Dr. Baden: An Autopsy Special brings a unique new twist to the hit series, as he answers e-mails from HBO viewers who have appealed for help via the "Ask Dr. Baden" interactive feature on hbo.com. To them he is the "court of last resort."


Why Did Terrie Petrie's Children Die?

In Sept. 2004, 32-year-old Terrie Petrie wrote:
"I am the mother of four children, three of which have died. A daughter in June of 2000 at eight days old and twin sons in January of 2003 at three months and a week. I have been trying to work with police to get answers as well as several doctors to get answers -- no one knows anything. Please help me. I need to know why my children keep dying and why was I so lucky with my oldest who is now 7." Dr. Baden's search involves polygraph tests, genetic and DNA testing, and autopsy reports, as well as two interviews with Terrie Petrie. He reveals his conclusions to her, sparking a dramatic exchange.


Lady in the Lake

On Oct. 10, 1981, ten-year-old Darrell Forbis came home after school to an empty apartment at a motel in Marysville, Cal. There was no sign of his mother, Mary Jane Goodings, or stepfather, Ron Roberts, so he stayed in the apartment waiting for someone to come back. But Forbis never saw his mother again and was put into foster care. As the years passed, his sense of abandonment led to hatred for his mother.

In 2002, more than 20 years later, divers found the slime- and mud-covered hulk of a 1980 Ford Thunderbird at the bottom of a shallow lake just a block from the motel. On the rear passenger seat they discovered what appeared to be a skull and lower jawbone - later confirmed as belonging to his mother.

Forbis' niece subsequently wrote Dr. Baden, saying: "I am writing on behalf of my uncle and his family. After 21 years of being missing, his mother's body was found in her boyfriend's car, at the bottom of Lake Ellis in California. There were many questions surrounding her death. Now the new questions are how did she die, was she murdered before going into the lake, why was she not found when the car was in 6 feet of water in a recreational lake, and why did the police department close her case before she was found? Please consider taking on this case so my uncle and family can put this tragedy behind them."

Dr. Baden's search involves an autopsy of Mary Jane Goodings' remains and interviews with police and her children, Darrell and Darlean, as well as an interview with Ron Roberts -- the last person to see her alive. Roberts provides some answers for Darrell and Darlean, but also raises just as many questions.

Finally, Darrell and Darlean are able to "bring their mother home and bury her next to her own mother."

~~~~~~~~~

Baden: Pathologist Dr. Michael Baden is a real-life "Quincy" who has conducted more than 20,000 autopsies in his 34-year career, reviewed the autopsies of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman at the O.J. Simpson trial, and examined victims of the TWA Flight 800 crash. Currently director of forensic science for the New York State Police, Dr. Baden also consulted in the cases of Claus von Bulow, President John F. Kennedy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Medgar Evers, John Belushi, Chandra Levy, Andy Warhol, Christian Brando, Montgomery Clift, the Romanovs, and the Challenger and Lockerbie disasters. As perhaps the best-known "detective of death" in the U.S., Dr. Baden shows how he and his peers are the living interpreters for the dead, demonstrating the importance of pathology and other disciplines in revealing the truth behind suspicious deaths.

As Dr. Baden wrote in his 1989 best seller "Unnatural Death: Confessions of a Medical Examiner," forensic pathology is "a profession that is enormously gratifying. It offers the adventure of detection, the excitement of discovery and the satisfaction of searching for the truth." Dr. Baden and his wife, legal commentator Linda Kenney, recently finished writing "Remain Silent," a suspense novel that mines the worlds of forensics and law, to be published by Alfred A. Knopf this September.

Ask Dr. Baden: An Autopsy Special is produced by Gaby Monet, whose other HBO documentaries include the previous "Autopsy" specials, plus "Child of Rage: A Story of Abuse," "Attempted Murder: Confrontation," "Confronting Evil," "Murder 9 to 5" and the three "Iceman" specials. Director and editor, Arthur Ginsberg; narrator, Marlene Sanders; coordinating producer, Sara Bernstein; supervising producer, Lisa Heller; executive producer, Sheila Nevins. Posted by Hello