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Beverly Hills Sheet Official Website
Beverly HillSheet An International Look for People Who Make a Difference April/May 2004 Two Dollars OSCAR Night Vanity Fair Party Great Hotels of the World Kempinski, Grand Hôtel Des Bains, St. Moritz Switzerland The Hotel des Bergues, Geneva Switzerland St. Clerans, Galway Ireland The Clarence Hotel, Dublin Ireland “Most Exciting Women” Luncheon Party FOXWOODS RESORT CASINO Largest and most Luxurious on the Planet Every Woman Loves His Scent I nternationally acclaimed designer, Marc Rosen, known for his award winning fragrance, cosmetic, and fashion packaging, created Pre-a-Porter Custom Standards and his newest venture, ACCESSmr. A creative entrepreneur, his foresight has established him as a leader in the fields of manufacturing, marketing and public relations. His vision has been inspired by working with famous ‘beauty’ manufacturers and fashion names as Revlon, Estee Lauder, Nina Ricci, Perry Ellis, Oscar de la Renta, Avon, Halston, Chloe, Karl Lagerfeld, Fendi, Bath and Body Works, Victoria’s Secret, and Burberrys, etc...Just prior to establishing his own firm in 1989, Mr. Rosen was Vice President - Corporate Design and Communications for Elizabeth Arden Global for over a decade. In that role he was responsible for all corporate design, packaging, instore merchandising and public relations. He is a six time FiFi award winner. Mr. Marc Rosen has been involved in three highly acclaimed museum exhibitions. In 1979 he created “Cosmetic Packaging: A 20th Century Art Form” at the Fashion Institute of Technology, New York City and co-chaired the Fragrance Foundations “Scents of Time” exhibit (1986-87) that traveled nationwide. In September 2002 he created an exhibit titled “Glass Houses” featuring his perfume bottle designs to celebrate the opening of Pratt Institute’s new graduate center in Manhattan. HIs designs are represented in the permanent in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art, New York, Musee de La Mode, Paris. As further indication of the breadth of his experience, Mr. Rosen writes a monthly column (On Design) for the influential trade magazine, Beauty fashion. He is a Professor (Package Design Workshop) at Pratt Institute Graduate school, where in 1990 they presented him with the prestigious “Excellence by Design” award and established a scholarship in his name for young designers. The scholarship is supported by the Cosmetic Industry at a fundraiser held at New York’s University Club annually. Marc Rosen Often quoted in the press (SMITHSONIAN, ELLE, ALLURE, WWD, THE NEW YORK TIMES) as a cosmetic and fragrance authority, he has contributed his time and talents to many charity organizations, including March of Dimes, The American Cancer Society, The City of Hope, The Fragrance Foundation and the Fashion Institute of Technology. A graduate of Carnegie-Mellon University where he received a BFA, and an MS and Honorary Doctorate from Pratt Institute. Mr. Rosen lives and works in New York City with his wife, the actress, Arlene Dahl. SHANGHAI the forbidden fragrance T he new forbidden fragrance called Shanghai is exciting and mysterious. It has such a wonderful scent. The aroma of your body blends with this scent. It makes you feel very sensual and comfortable in your own skin. - L.F. More than the name of a provocative city or classic film, Shanghai is a state of mind. Blending the intrigue of the past, the power of the present, and hopes for the future, Shanghai is eclectic, beautiful, multifaceted and mysterious. A spicy, exotic and sexy scent, Shanghai connotes the mystery, intrigue and danger of the Orient. It has been created by six time FiFi award winning (FiFi award is like an Oscar in the perfume world), perfume bottle designer, Marc Rosen. Shanghai opens with sparkling nuances of Bergamot and juicy Green Pineapple, Touches of Cinnamon Oil Ceylon add a glow of energy and spiciness. The Magnolia Flower, native to tropical Asia, contributes a fresh citrus floral to the top note. The ancient Chinese Osmanthus Flower, with its delicate fruity-floral apricot aroma, is one of the signature elements of Shanghai. It is enriched with tender Carnation, exotic Jasmine petals and mysterious Patchouli for an elegant, sensuous and captivating blend of warm Vanilla Bourbon, rich Balsam Woods and velvety Ambergris. Further enhancing the intrigue and warmth of the base notes is Wild Plum, a smooth, luscious fruit native to China. The Shanghai fragrance is housed in unique bottles that combine the drama of the old world with the vision of the new. Breaking new ground in glass technology, both the Parfum and eau de Parfum bottles are created as glass spheres, round and sensual, the bottom halves are actually solid glass, creating the illusion that the actual red fragrance in the top half is floating. The Parfum flacon is topped with a clear lucite dan golden Chinoiserie topper, recreating the glamour of a classic parfum decanter. Suppliers include Brosse Glass, Matic Plast, Firmenich, Valois, Knoll and Arkay Packaging. With exceptional packaging and an intriguing name, this exquisite fragrance is destined to become a modern classic. Shanghai - The perfume with a past, for the woman with a future. Available exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue A Great Gift for Mother’s Day! Foxwoods Resort Casino ‘The Wonder of it All’ M any people make it mandatory in-a-lifetime to visit Mecca. Those interested in the Ultimate gaming experience must visit Foxwoods , because it is truly ‘THE WONDER OF IT ALL’. Foxwoods Resort Casino in located between New York and Boston in scenic Southeastern Connecticut, it gives you glitz and glamour of gaming at an extremely high level. It is run with a great deal of pride by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. Foxwoods is humongous and as you approach it from a distance it looks like the Emerald City. It is the largest casino on the planet. With over 6,700 slot machines and 370 table games that include Blackjack, Baccarat, Crap, Pai Gow, Poker and Roulette. Bingo the original game of the Mashantucket gaming has its own hall that offers High-Steaks Bingo and seats 3,200. Keno can be played throughout the facility or in the elegant Keno lounge. There is the Ultimate Race Book that features 200 seats, a 50 feet wide with theatre-quality high resolution projection screen, there is luxury seating also. 12 betting windows, a sports bar all within an 8,000 square foot area. There are no fewer than 25 fine eateries that can satisfy your craving in a multitude of ways from fast food to gourmet. Al Dente which highlights Italian; Fox Harbour, seafood; Cedars Steak House. The Veranda Cafe’ serves American cuisine 24 hours a day. For those with an Asian craving there is the Golden Dragon with its casual setting . The Grand Pequot Tower (cover) is the Jewel of the Resort. The Tower dwarfs the forest that surrounds it. With over 800 rooms under its roof you can find the cre’me de la cre’me, here are 23 luxurious custom designed Villa suites located on the 22nd and 23rd floor. These suites average 1,400 square feet and include Jacuzzi tubs, large screen TV’s and 24-hour butler service. The Manshantucket Villa is the largest with two levels within its 5,000 square feet includes a grand staircase, a private elevator, a formal dining room and a living room all with 20-foot ceilings. The Paragon Scott Michelson runs this show. The Center Cut Filet Mignon served with rich red wine sauce and herbed butter is a favorite. There’s Chateaubriand for two or Emperor’s Shark Fin Soup. If your craving Italian cuisine; Rigatoni Con Pescatore, tube pasta blended with an array of seafood topped with Rosa sauce and Parmesan-reggiano cheese should get the taste buds going. All done with five-star service. Another superb amenity is its extensive wine list that includes Chateau Petrus and Chateau Lafite Rothschild.. An real treat is pianist Jack Madry, Madry’s smooth melodies just make the dining atmosphere a bit more pleasurable. Paragon is a must for dining. The Ultimate Player can call Steve Carroll at 1.800.292.2000 by earl Heath The Paragon The Grand Salon and Spa at 20,000 square feet includes a large indoor pool, the latest in exercise equipment, steam and sauna rooms, it also includes everything from body bronzing to seaweed and mud-wraps. Club Newport International is reserved for the premium player like the readers of the Beverly Hill Sheet. Here you are in a world of privilege . Once arriving you are in a world that gives you maximum privacy and minimum distractions. Its sophisticated and discreet with its private salons for high steaks and high excitement. One can enjoy your game of choice such as Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat; with players like you without the crowds.There’s also the best of gourmet chefs who can give you a complete meal a or light snack. Stargazer Casino is private for the elite player who is at the premium level. There is nothing in Vegas, Monte Carlo or the world that surpass its luxury located at the top of the world, the 25th floor. You are welcomed with an incredibly large globe within the lobby that’s stunning when it comes into view. You will enter on a spiral staircase with the world globe in the middle, giving the appearance you are headed to the top of the world, and once you enter Stargazer that’s exactly the feeling inside. The setting is electric and provides a lavish retreat with its twelve tables of Baccarat, Blackjack, and a Single Zero Roulette. When celebs aren’t performing their here to enjoy Foxwoods. There have been sightings of Shaquille O’Neal, super actor Jerry Orbach of Law and Order, baseballs Pete Rose , and the elusive Rita Long. Entertainers performing there include! Regis Philbin, Bill Cosby, Seinfeld, B.B. King and many others. Paragon ‘simply awesome’ . This is the signature restaurant of the Pequot Towers and Foxwoods. It is of refined elegance with its polished woods and ceilings hand-painted fresco of buffalos and blue clouds create an atmosphere of sheer comfort. A window view of the forest is indescribable. Award winning Chef 4 Beverly Hills Sheet Stargazer Casino Foxwoods Spa th John Travolta 50 Birthday On the heels of its opening in Los Cabos, Mexico, the luxurious One&Only Palmilla resort played host to a surprise 50th birthday weekend celebration for actor John Travolta. Among the friends and family who surprised the actor at the exclusive event were wife Kelly Preston. One&Only Palmilla Resort Laura Dern and Quincy Jones Sylvester Stallone, Jennifer Flavin and friends James Brolin, Oprah Barbra Streisand Jose Feliciano John Travolta, Buzz and Lois Aldrin Robin Willians Balthazar Getty Pauletta Washington and Bebe Winans Tom Cruise and John Travolta Anne Archer Kelly Preston and Oprah John Travolta Quincy Jones John Travolta and his wife Kelly Local Mariachi Beautiful Señorita Diane Sawyer Mashantucket Pequot History of a People T - earl Heath he Mashantucket Pequot are one of the oldest group of Native Americans. History shows they have occupied Southeastern Connecticut for over 10,000 years. Many of the events of the Mashantucket story were not placed in traditional American history books. Many of us grew up reading how Christopher Columbus discovered America and how the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock. The Mashantucket Pequot had their own history, a history that until more recently was not brought to the fore-front. When Zhen, the Chinese explorer made his final voyage in 1433, the Mashantucket Pequot were in Southeastern Connecticut. In 1513 when Spain’s—Vasco Nueze de Balboa found oyster beds with giant pearls in discovering the Pacific Ocean, the Mashantucket were in Southeastern Connecticut . Prior to European contact in the early 17th Century the Peqouts had approximately 8,000 members living on 250 square miles. They enjoyed a profitable trade relationship for more than a decade with the Dutch, exchanging fur and wampum for metal tools and cloth. The Pequot War 1636-1638 A major conflict,with the English settlers was extremely harsh and had a detrimental effect on the tribe. This occurred in the spring of 1637 when the English and their Native allies attacked a main Pequot village in Mystic, setting it on fire and killing more than 600 Pequots. The war was close to genocide, a great number of Pequots lost their lives and their land. Pequots were even forbidden to call themselves Pequots and of those that remained many were sold into Slavery. For years the tribe fought to keep its land; however their numbers were dwindling. Previous to the Revolutionary War of 1775, a 1774 colonial census indicated there were 151 tribal members in Mashantucket. In the 1780’s some joined the Brotherton Movement a Christian-Indian effort that brought Native Americans from New England to upstate New York. In 1805 Meriwether Lewis an Army Officer hired by Thomas Jefferson and half of the Lewis and Clark expedition team arrived at the Continental Divide (Montana and Idaho Border). Around this time [the early 1800s] there were only 30 to 40 members living on the Pequot reservation. In 1856 the state illegally sold off most of the Manshantucket Reservation reducing it from 989 acres to 213 acres. In the 1860s the Buffalo Soldiers (African-American Military) of the ninth and tenth Cavalry were given their name by the Apache, Cheyenne, and Comanche, Native Americans who thought that the name symbolized the Native American respect for the Buffalo Soldier’s bravery and valor. Even though they were U.S. government soldiers many times they allied with many Native Americans to challenge outlaws and renegades of the 1860’s. The Peqouts held on to what was left of their land despite efforts by the state to force them off the reservation. In the mid 1900’s Elizabeth George was truly a strong and influential leader among the Mashantucket Pequot Nation. It was her leadership and influence that made younger generations return to Mashantucket. She did this until her death in 1973. Afterwards her grandson Richard (Skip) Hayward was elected to lead the Pequots. Under Hayward’s influence many wanted to revive tribal culture and developed economic selfsufficiency. However this would be a challenge; the reservation was isolated, there were no paved roads, and there was rocky soil and only two houses. Tribal members lived in mobile homes. There was an embarkment on a number of economic ventures that included the selling of cord wood, there was a community garden, and they invested in a maple syrup operation. Some of these projects worked but they were not enough to sustain the tribe economically. In 1976 the tribe sued more than 20 neighboring property owners to recover land that had been sold illegally by the state of Connecticut in the 19th Century. With assistance from the Native American Rights Fund and the Indian Rights Association the landowners came to an agreement with the Tribe, recognizing that the 1856 land sale was illegal. In October of 1983 President Ronald Reagan signed the Mashantucket Pequot Indian Land Claims Settlement Act. This Act allowed the Pequots to repurchase up to 1,250 acres of land once owned by their ancestors. It also granted the tribe federal recognition an important factor towards its economic future. In 1986 the MPTN began a high-steaks bingo operation-which led to the establishment of Foxwoods Resort Casino in 1992. Immediately Foxwoods was successful ending generations of economic struggle; this also provided a future for the younger tribal members. After they developed some financial stability they began to focus on their heritage. For over 35 years a main goal was to build a facility to share the history and culture of the Mashantucket Pequot. In October of 1993, celebrating the 10th anniversary of their federal recognition, the Pequots had the ground breaking for the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center. The facility officially opened in August of 1998. The museum also serves as a major resource on the histories and cultures of other tribes. The facility was established solely by the funds of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation as a non-profit cultural resource. Today at 308,000 square feet, it is the largest Native American museum in the Northern Hemisphere. When visiting the museum, you see life as it was for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe 11,000 years ago to present day. You start from the glacial crevasse to the interactive caribou hunt then you move on to the 22,000 square feet 16th century woodland Pequot village and the 17th century Pequot fort. The most asked question they get at the museum is “How were the Life Cast Figures created and why do they look so lifelike?” When you are there you too will ask that question as you visit each exhibit and “feel as though someone is going to speak to you or run across your path,” as stated by Lynn Ennis from Wyoming. You will also see crafts and works of art by Native American artists and life of the Pequot Nation today. You also have the opportunity to research Native American history as Aaron Gooday has done. Gooday, an Apache, was born in Whiteriver, Arizona. He was adopted at the age of 2 and moved to New Caanan, CT, an elite suburb located in western Connecticut a short drive from New York. At the age of 21, Gooday had a hunger for his heritage. “I wanted to learn my own history. When I was in high school there was something missing and it seemed no one cared about the Native American past,” said Gooday. Not only did Gooday find his history, he now works at the MPM&RC and he can answer any question you have. This museum is a must see for all people and all generations. It’s a piece of history that should be shared by the world. It’s sustained through grants,sponsorships, donations and the support of private and corporate members. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. latest admission at 4p.m. and is closed Thanksgiving Eve, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Years Eve, New Years day. For more information visit, www.ppequot museum.org or call 1-800-411-9671. DALE OLSON Photos by Steve Cohn Caucus for Producers, Writers and Directors 21st Annual Dinner Award Ceremony The awards dinner was hosted by actor James Woods and was chaired by Chuck Fries and Lee Miller, Honors went to producer Gerry Abrama, writer Allan Burns and Jay Sandrich. James Woods, Laraine and David Gerber Writer Allan Burns, Director Jay Sandrich, Producer Gerry Abrama Chuck Fries, Anne Sweeney, Vin Di Bona Lang Lang Great Pianist Coming to Walt Disney Concert Hall for tickets call 323.850.2000 Date e h t Save Save the D ate The 1st Annual The Golden Needle Awards Saturday June 5, 2004 Runway Fashion Show and Luncheon featuring The latest “Hot Designers” at the Regent Beverly Wilshire Beverly Hills benefiting The Thalians Mental Health Center at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center ***** ABCs Association for Breast & Prostate Cancer Studies ***** John Wayne Cancer Institute Contact Ida Myers at 310.446.3403 for info. or events@goldenneedleawards.com T here was power with a capital P the first week in March at the Regent Beverly Wilshire as super designer and editor/publisher of The Beverly Hills Sheet honored the ladies who are major community movers and shakers. Then, a few nights later the California National Organization of Women brought out ERA heavyweights at the Excellence in Media Awards. Dressed to the teeth and sparkling with more diamonds than Harry Winston's, the ladies honored by Beverly Hills Sheet were Helma Christiane Bloomberg, Carol Connors, Marcia Israel-Curley, Donelle Dadigan, Rhonda Fleming, Barbara Fodor, Cassandra Lee Kipp, Margaret Kott, Mara New, Patricia Riley, Doris Roberts and Carolyn Steyn, introduced with aplomb by ABC Channel 7 Entertainment Editor George Pennacchio. All this to benefit The Southeast Symphony, the venerable multi-ethnic musical organization now in its 56th year. In the glittering audience, I spotted Link Mathewson, the doyenne of Newport Beach; Daryl Carlson, Rhonda Shear, Charlene Tilton, Kate Linder, Dascha Aurerbach, Marilyn and Harry Lewis, jazz singer Gene Harbin applauding the ladies and special entertainer Barbara Morrison. Then, at NOW, so expertly organized by Iris Caplan, the virtues of honorees writer/director Jane Anderson, television icon Marcy Carsey, actress Tyne Daly, ICM agent/ Women in Film prexy Iris Grossman, and Feminist Majority Foundation & Ms. Magazine toppers Peg Yorkin and Elaine Lafferty, were extrolled by such as Marian Rees, Doris Roberts, Adam Arkin, Mavis Leno and Kerri Putnam before a crowd that included Dorathea Petrie, Patricia Barry, NOW toppers Kim Gandy, Megan Seely and Helen Grieco; Gloria Allred, Virginia Carter, Marian Rosenberg, Molly Gregory, Laura Bennett, emcee CBS News Anchor Laura Diaz and more…Oscar" Weekend promises the biggest and best parties in town, but one of the most rewarding was the Academy's pre-tribute to this year's special "Oscar" honoree, Blake Edwards. For me, it was a wonderful reunion. As publicity director for The Mirisch Co., I had the privilege of working with Blake on the Peter Sellers comedy "The Party" and his wife, Julie Andrews, on "Hawaii." Edwards' friends reunited for an intimate pre'"Oscar"celebration that brought out those beauties Elke Sommer (Blake's "A Shot in the Dark") and 10. Marion Ross ("Operation Petticoat") and her Paul Michael, frequent Blake producer Walter Mirisch, Gwen and Arthur Hiller, Harvey Korman, Dee Wallace, Ginny Mancini (Hank wrote the music on so many of Blake's hits) Jan and Mickey Rooney, Marilyn and Alan Bergman, Academy President Frank Pierson and Execs Bruce Davis & Ric Robertson, the great character actor Emmett Walsh, former Academy President Richard Kahn and his Maryann, producer Ken Wales, June Foray and so many more. And, while we're saluting, let's give a big hurrah to the Hillers' 56th wedding anniversary. Who says Hollywood marriages can't last?… Another hurrah goes to The Actors' Fund of America and its second all-star film reading, this year the classic "Sunset Boulevard" on April 4 at the Pantages. And who's going to be ready for her close-up as Norma Desmond? None other than Oscar winner Angelica Huston, with Sir Ben Kingsley as her devoted Max, Stanley Donen in a cameo as, who else?, legendary director Cecil B. DeMille. Stefanie Powers does double duty as columnist Hedda Hopper and compare for the evening, while Billy Wilder's widow, Audrey, and original cast member Nancy Olson are honorary chairs. No word at this writing who will play the Bill Holden role, but you can be sure it will be a superstar. Playwright David Rambo again adapts the screenplay to stage, as he did last year for "All About Eve," so it looks like it will again be an LA theatre "Happening." Call 323.933.9244 fast to snag a ticket…Whenever I see Marilyn Lovel Matz on the bill, I'm there. Marilyn truly is an American treasure so I rushed to the all-star benefit for Hamilton High, L.A./s equivalent of the N. Y. High School For the Performing Arts, where I was moved to tears by her soaring, emotional interpretation of Billy Goldenberg's great "50-Cent Man" from "Ballroom." The benefit drew a star cast of Hamilton supporters, including Jay Johnson, the cleverest comedian/ventriloquist you will ever see; emcee Scott Bakula who joined his wife Chelsea Field in a highly amusing husband/wife musical duel; the show's musical director Ben Lanzarone and Ilene Graff, whose daughter Nikka trained at Hamilton; the always-popular Carole Cook and a surprise performance by West Coast Actors' Fund exec David Michaels, who dueted with Graff on the hilarious "The Grass is Always Greener." Joining in the fun were Hamilton instructors Joe Joyce and David Way, pros who show why the school is the best musical training facility in town… Another amazing surprise when actor Jack Betts ("Spiderman," "Titanic") invited us to a preview of his new musical act, "Just In Time," at the Skylight Theatre. Betts is the perfect example of an accomplished actor who brings a new visual insight to musical performance. This is a show that has to be seen as he runs through a collection of classics by Comden and Greene, Mercer and Arlen, Kurt Weil and Jerry Herman, mixed with clever specialty tunes, all of them tastefully arranged in captivating style by pianist/composer/conductor Paul Horner. How he blends musical style and lyric content is a wonder. With Richard Sonock on bass and Paul Crynik on drums, the presentation is like a book musical and Betts' acting phrasing and visual delivery leaves you begging for more. It's a New York - or London and Paris - natural so, you bookers out there, come running. And you audiences, watch for Jack Betts and rush to see and hear a show you're gonna want to see again… Congratulations to Doris Roberts who has pulled together a coup two years in a row with her "A Night of Comedy 2" at the Wilshire Theatre. With her three Emmys for "Everybody Loves Raymond," Roberts is everybody's favorite and she did what few can do, putting together Ray Romano, George Lopez, Garry Shandling, Wayne Brady, Lily Tomlin and Drew Carey in one incredibly hilarious show of nonstop laughter to benefit the Children Affected By AIDS Foundation. What a job it must have been to figure out who was going to follow who on this show, but hostess Roberts seemed to be able to do it. After all, who is going to argue with Marie?… Capturing Ireland at Its Best By Dale C. Olson N estled in bowered lanes of lush-leafed trees and greenery, St. Clerans is the jewel of Craughwell, 100 acres steeped in Irish history and a thirty-minute drive from bustling Clalway City. The ancient home of the Burkes, one can feel the presence of Lords and their Ladies in their finery, whether in the Manor or the gardens surrounding the estate. Although reduced to a state of ruin, the Georgian structure still stood proudly when it caught the eye of film director John Huston, who purchased it in 1955 to become his Irish home and refurbished it as one of the stately residential properties of the world. Even today, one of the spacious guest accommodations boasts the name Angelica, after the director’s Oscar-winning daughter, who spent much of her youth at the estate. It is here for 18 years that Huston called “the soul of life” he brought international film personalities, political figures and even royalty, filling its stables with prizewinning horses for the hunting season and the rooms with wine, women and song for the galas locals still talk about. It was not surprising, then, when entertainer turned hotelier Merv Griffin, who had interviewed Huston at St. Cleran’s for his popular television show, acquired the estate after Huston’s death and decided to add the Georgian manor as an exclusive jewel in his Merv Griffin Hotels empire, where it once again becomes a home away from home for international travelers. And one does feel right at home, as the personable and efficient St. Clerans Mistress of the Manor, Elizabeth O’Mahoney, thrusts open the massive front doors declaring “Welcome, the house is yours.” We were escorted to one of the house’s 12 guest accommodations, this one dubbed the Robinson Suite after another grand ancient local family and fit for any Lord or Lady or even a King with its cheerful wood burning massive stone fireplace (and another one in the spacious marble bathroom) spreading comfort to a huge sitting area, a gracious reading alcove and sumptuous sleeping area. Wandering into an adjacent writing room, we dashed off St. Cleran’s cards to everyone we knew, then proceeded to the beautifully decorated drawing room for pre-dinner cocktails. Here we were surprised to run into Beverly Hills neighbors Kathy and Leonard Unger, who was entertaining at the grand piano, again giving us a feeling of being right at home. And, then, the piece de resistance. The heavenly aroma getting us across the hail as we were escorted in to dinner came from the extraordinary artistry of Chef Hishashi “Kuma” Tumagi. a culinary experience equal to the splendor of the surroundings. I still savor the piquancy of his delicate soup leading to a generous selection of entrees on a par with the best menus anywhere. Merv, we decided, had become a hotelier par excellence. It’s a breezy two-hour drive from the Northern tip to central Ireland and Dublin. Our hotel, the very chic Clarence owned by the rock group U-2, we were in the very center of Dublin, nearly everything from Trinity College to the famed Abbey Theatre and an Irish production of O’Casey’s “The Plough and the Stars,” only a few minutes walk. With a grand Georgian façade, the Clarence turned out to be another world, sleek teakwood walls, floors and accessories in angles and curves, it became a wonder of modem architecture sitting right on the river Litfy. Apparently anyone who is anyone stays at the Clarence and, had we come a day early, we might have run into guests like Maria and Arnold Schwarzenegger, Quincy Jones and Muhammed Ali, who had been to Dublin for the opening of the Junior Olympics. However, deciding to take a trolThe Cliffs of Mohrer ley tour, which we advise, we did run into Pierce Brosnan, (James Bond) as we visited the National Museum, where he was being presented with an award. Dublin, it appears is a celebrity magnet, at least for that week. Since we weren’t invited in to join the Brosnan ceremonies, back we went to the trolley and one of Dublin’s great and popular attractions, the Guinness factory, showroom and museum, topped with a free pint. Now, that’s the way to leave the emerald isle with a mellow memory, a trip I would recommend for every day that offers a memory. Armed with a satchel full of material and recommendations from the enormously helping Tourism Ireland office, 212.418.0831. Beverly Hills Sheet 9 Oscar Night Scarlett Johansson, ooh those Lips. Uma Thurman, She looks like the mother from “Little House on the Prairie” Photos by Jim Smeal/BEImages Renee Zellweger, so many wings, Dragonfly, Wedding gown or Trapeze? Charlize Theron, Beautiful girl, her gown has too much tail. Sofia Coppola, How about a hairdresser to go with her Oscar? Annie Lennox, To much flounce Oscar Night Jennifer Garner, a walking poppy - lovely. Sean Young, Twinkle Twinkle Big Stars. Joan and Melissa Rivers, the cats of all time need their own critique. Joan looks like Mrs. Claus and Melissa, Zina from the Jungle, all she needs is another tree limb coming from that gown. Nicole Kidman, If you look closely she is not wearing this gown, it’s standing in front of her. She is totally disconnected from the bustline. Not flattering. Jada Pinkett Smith, Too much dress for such a little person. Jamie Lee Curtis, definitely age inappropriate. OSCAR/GRAMMY Award Winning Lyricist Hal David The beginning of May to July 30, 2004 the Portland Art Museum will open “The Eunice and Hal David Collection of 19th and 20th Century Works on Paper.” To celebrate this opening, Hal David, the Academy-Award winning lyricist will talk about his work, and have some of his popular songs sung by famed singer Freda Payne, who will perform many of the songs made famous by Dionne Warwick. After the Cabaret Show, attendees will view the show, a collection of 60 drawings, which were recently shown a the UCLA/Hammer Museum, and then attend a dinner featuring Northwest cuisine and wine. “Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head,” “This Guy’s in Love With You,” and “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again,” are just three of the hits in a string of standards written by lyricist Hal David. “Raindrops,” which was in the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, garnered an Academy Award and “Don’t Make Me Over,” “Close to You” and “Walk on By” are all in the Grammy Hall of Fame. In addition, “What’s New Pussycat,” “Alfie,” and “The Look of Love” received Oscar nominations. Amongst Hal David’s million-sellers are such standards as “Do You Know the Way to San Jose,” “Walk on By,” “What the World Needs Now is Love,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” “(There’s) Always Something There to Remind Me,” and “One Less Bell To Answer,” all of which have become pop standards. When Dionne Warwick recorded Hal David’s hit song “What the World Needs Now Is Love,” she commented that she felt it “should be the new national anthem.” Small wonder that Hal David has been honored for his way with words with every major award bestowed by the music industry, including 20 gold records, several Grammys, the NARM Presidential Award, and the B’Nai B’rith Creative Achievement Award. He has also been elected to the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, and has been presented with their coveted Johnny Mercer Award. Mr. David was awarded the prestigious Grammy Trustees Award by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. He was also honored by the British Performing Rights Society by being awarded the esteemed British Ivor Novello Award (the first non-British person to ever receive the award). In addition, Mr. David wrote the lyrics for film scores to “Alfie,” “What’s New Pussycat,” “Casino Royale,” “The April Fools,” “A House is Not Home,” “The Man Who Shot liberty Valance,” and “Moonraker.” Hal David has been elected to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame for his many country hits, including “To All The Girls I’ve Loved Before,” which garnered a Top County Hit of the Year Award when the famed country singer Willie Nelson duetted with Latin star Julio Iglesias to record the hugely successful song. His Broadway show “Promises, Promises” received a Grammy, and was nominated for a Tony Award, when it first appeared on Broadway. Two songs, written for the show: “Promises, Promises” and “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again,” became instant hits. The Encore series showcased “Promises, Promises” -- prompting a new song to be written for the show -- successfully bringing together Hal David and his collaborator Burt Bacharach, after many years. Following the successful revival, the Reprise Series produced the show in Los Angles, where it was so successful that they extended the series, and presented “Promises, Promises” a second time in the same season. Hal David’s work is quoted in “Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations,” and the book of his lyrics, entitled “What the World Needs Now and Other Love Lyrics,” was published by Simon and Schuster. The Joffrey Ballet features two of Mr. David’s songs, “Make it Easy on Yourself” and “There’s Always Something There to Remind Me” in its production of “Love Songs” which is in its permanent repertoire. Lincoln College bestowed a Doctor of Music degree on Mr. David for his major contribution to American music, and he received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters Degree from Claremont Graduate University. Hal, Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick received the “New York Heroes Award” from the National Recording Academy. He’s a Founder of the Los Angeles Music Center. He serves as a member of the Board of Governors of Cedars Sinai Medical Center, as well as the Board of Directors of ASCAP, having formerly served as its President. Hal David is the Chairman of the Board of the National Academy of Popular Music and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Tickets may be obtained by calling 503.276.4211 Freda Payne began studying classical piano at age 5, Freda Payne seldom sang as a child. Her younger sister Scherrie (later a member of the Supremes) was the singer in the family. “Scherrie was the one who used to get up and sing in front of people,” Payne recalls. “She was the more gregarious one. I was painfully shy. I wouldn’t sing for anybody. I didn’t warn people looking at me because I was so shy.” When she was 12, Freda came out of her shell, at the urging of Ruth Johnson, her piano teacher. “I didn’t know I had any ability to sing, but she needed to get together a little ensemble to sing a couple of numbers at the next piano recital,” Payne recalls. “She auditioned me because she wanted to see if I sounded good enough to be in the ensemble. The song was ‘June Is Bustin’ Out All Over.’ I started singing and she stopped and said, ‘Freda, you have a lovely voice.’ Even at the beginning of a career that would yield such classic hits as “Band of Gold,” “Deeper and Deeper,” and “Bring the Boys Home,” Freda Payne was finding herself torn between the jazz and R&B worlds. The Detroit-born singer was barely in her teens when Berry Gordy, Jr. attempted to recruit her for his emerging Mowtown operation - before Mary Wells and Diana Ross had even entered the picture. Duke Ellington later featured the teenage vocalist with his famous orchestra for two nights in Pittsburgh and offered her a ten-year contract. But, as she had with Gordy, Freda’s mother declined Ellington’s offer. Payne became established as a jazz singer in the mid-Sixties, touring with the Quincy Jones and Bob Crosby bands and cutting an album for Impulse! producer Bob Thiele’s celebrated jazz label. Major media exposure came through appearances on television programs hosted by Johnny Carson, David Frost, and Merv Griffin, but Payne had no hits until she turned to R&B by hooking up with childhood friends Eddie Holland, Lamont Dozier and Brian Holland, songwriter-producers who had just launched their won company after creating a string of smashes for Mowtown. “Band of Gold” soon followed, placing at No. 3 on Billboard’s pop chart in the U.S. and at No. 1 in the U.K. Come See About Me, Payne’s first new recording for a nationally distributed label in nearly two decades, allows versatile stylist to showcase the full scope of her vocal artistry for the very first time on one disc. “I’m doing pop, jazz and R&B,” she explains. “This album encompasses all three of those spectrums.” 12 Beverly Hills Sheet Freda Payne Oscar Night Samantha Morton, she is looking for help, the gown needs it! Julianne Moore, now you can wear your old nightgown to the Oscars. Sean Penn, very handsome and most deserving. Diane Keaton, “Great Vaudevillian look” in White Face, but what about those gray gloved hands? Angelina Jolie, always very Sexy. Patricia Clarkson, Lady Luck in gold, very simple, great! Most Exciting Women’s Luncheon Party Given to Benefit the Southeast Symphony’s 56th Year T he Beverly Hills Sheet’s “Most Exciting Women” Luncheon turned into a full-blown party. The theme was “Midnight at the Oasis at Noon.” Well you would have thought it was midnight. The entire audience got up to dance. The ladies wore evening clothes, lots of diamonds, and very chic accessories. The ladies looked fabulous, and some men wore velvet evening jackets. Others wore tuxes and some wore business suits, but they all dressed. We had one Elvis. There is always one. The decor of the room was transformed by Sylvia Lowry of “A Package Party.” Everyone wanted to know who had done it. Gold chairs with black seats and black flocked table cloths were stunning with the ruby satin/cotton napkins. The center pieces were also Sylvia’s.They were great candle lamps with ruby beaded shades and ruby pebbles around the base, really beautiful, even the management at the Beverly Wilshire wanted to know who had done it. It was just great! Everyone had a memorable time. There were many other sponsors who helped to make this event a big success as well: Barbara Fodor, Beatrix Padway, Flora Thornton, Harry and Marilyn Lewis, The Charles Mathewson Foundation, Lisa Cocucca, Jacque Heebner, Shanghai Perfume, David Webb Jewelry, Niessing Jewelry gave a beautiful steel-faced watch, they are located in the Beverly Center, the most fabulous rum cakes called Tortuga, made in the Cayman Islands, The Candy Factory, who reproduced the front of the magazine in chocolate, Clientele, who gave over 200 anti-aging blocker creams to all of the ladies, Ron and Mara New, who sponsored Barbara Morrison, and gave 200 of her latest CD’s to everyone, Joe Gold, Las Vegas Humidor, and the Hollywood Museum, who sent passes for everyone, and a real big thanks to Link Mathewson, who did her beautiful calligraphy for all of the ladies, and who’s always there and ready to lend a helping hand. The Southeast Symphony is grateful for the help of everyone who participated as a sponsor for the day. Thank You! L. F. Room overview All the honorees: Donelle Dadigan, Rhonda Fleming, Pat Riley, Carol Connors, Margaret Kott, Helma Bloomberg, Doris Roberts, Mara New, Barbara Fodor and George Pennacchio, M.C., standing in the rear. Wife of the Consul of Spain Ulrika Dicenta and Helma Bloomberg Sylvia Lowry- A Package Party - They did the most elegant setting for the lunch, all linens and decor by them. Chair: Mara New, The 1st Annual, The Golden Needle Awards, Saturday June 5, 2004 Ramona Selby Rosa Kunin and Renee Kumetz Harry and Marilyn Lewis Daryl Carlson and wife Rhonda Fleming Honoree Jane and daughter Brook Boles Charlene Tilton, George Pennochio and Pat Riley Betty Destuch Lisa Cocuzza event planner Don Kott (rear), Margaret Kott and Kevin Parker of David Webb Jewelry One of today’s underwriters, Barbara Fodor with her Red Fox Doris Roberts, Susan Bellou Link Mathewson Gene Harbin Russ Lesser and Jim Miller George and Annette Klabin Donelle Dadigan Honoree Col. Jason Psaltrides and Pat Riley - Clientele Creator for Nordstrom and QVC Jerry Katell Cynthia Churchill and Else Langley Auctioneer Anita Talbert and Channel 7 television’s entertainment editor George Pennacchio holding David Webb’s earrings for auction. Elvis was there Modern "Micro-Incision" Cataract Surgery Quick, Easy, and Painless Kate Linder - Young and the Restless Grace Scherrer and Annie Lehrer he normal lens inside the eye is numb. In under 15 minutes, transparent and focuses images the natural lens is removed for clear vision. Aging can cause through a micro-incision and clouding of the lens which leads an artificial lens, with the to blurry vision, halos/glare with power determined during the night time prior preopervision, and ative examidifficulty drivnation, is ing especially p l a c e d . at night. Patients can Cataract surresume driving gery involves by the next the removal day, so there of the cloudnow is very lited lens of the tle "down time". eye and the on't let the replacement cloudy, blurry with a crystal vision caused clear implant by cataracts lens. This keep you from corrects enjoying life to vision along Brian S. Boxer Wachler, M.D. the fullest. with the With today's glasses prestate-of-the-art technology, scription at the same time. cataract removal and lens ataract surgery is one of the implantation is now easier and most commonly performed sursafer than ever. Please call the geries in the United States. Boxer Wachler Vision Institute Today, the procedure means no today at 310.860.1900 for a needles, no stitches, no patches, cataract evaluation with Dr. and no hospital stay. Patients Boxer Wachler. If cataracts are not the cause of blurry vision, Dr. may undergo light sedation administered by an anesthesiol- Boxer Wachler will be sure to let ogist while the eye is made you know. D Rhonda Shear Actress Carol Connors and Barbara Morrison at the Kawai Piano Earl Heath and Doris Roberts Dasha Stuart C Fraternal twins Kimora Lee and Lucy Liu, same gown couldn’t look more different on the two women. Russell looks like the water boy at a baseball game. VA Lucy Liu - You should fire your designer for giving you both the same gown. N I T Y Kelly Lynch, now you know what to do with your old sheer draperies. Hilary Swank, her behind looks good, a la J-Lo. FA Karolina Kurkova, how to wear a short dress in the nude and look great! I R Monet Mazur, A Band-Aid across the ocean. Catherine Zeta Jones, Best Dressed of the evening. N I T Y Oprah Winfrey - Today’s Show Fashion Guru Steven Cocojuru said “Oprah’s gown was age appropriate.” I would fire a designer who put me in such a gown. (Mary, Queen of Scott) Oprah usually looks pretty HOT ! FA I R Photos by Matt Baron/BEImages VA Sandra Bullock, How to make a long gown out of a short dress, just add feathers. Andre 3000, He is certainly dressed for the year 3000. Jennifer Love Hewitt, was last yera’s best dress of the evening but this year she looks like a nude New Orleans Mardi Gras Queen. Their colors are purple, gold and green. Ms. Legs, Suzanne Somers Jules Stein Eye Institute Director Moves Brian S. Boxer Wachler, MD, former Director of the UCLA Jules Stein Eye Institute’s Laser Refractive Center, has moved his practice to the Boxer Wachler Vision Institute. We in Beverly Hills are fortunate that one of the world’s top LASIK surgeons chose our community. “Dr. Boxer Wachler says, “Ultimately, I came to realize that I wanted to offer highlevel vision care in a more intimate environment. I believe this can only be done in a private, tightly controlled setting. This is why the Boxer Wachler Vision Institute was founded. Our mission is to offer the most advanced procedures with the most sophisticated equipment while maintaining meticulous standards for which we are renowned.” Dr. Boxer Wachler is continually pioneering techniques and procedures to broaden the range of patients that can be treated and to maximize their results. One of his recent advances is the No-Cut LASEK procedure, a successful alternative to LASIK. It can correct both distance and reading just like LASIK but without any incisions. Dr. Boxer Wachler developed the No-Cut LASEK for select patients who are apprehensive or are noncandidates for LASIK. No-Cut LASEK involves gently moving the surface skin of the cornea and applying the laser to reshape the outer cornea. His specialties involve correcting distance vision and reading vision using laser techniques. He also treats keratoconus, cataracts and provides annual eye exams. His curriculum vita includes over 150 published articles, presentations and book chapters and many coveted honors. He was elected by his peers as one of the best refractive surgeons in the world; he received the Gold Medal Award for Career Scientific Contributions. He was also honored with the Summit Autonomous Distinguished National Ophthalmologist Award. The modern field of vision correction has seen many advances through perfected techniques and advanced laser equipment. Advanced LASIK and other vision correction procedures are effective, low-risk, and have extremely high success rates. They eliminate or significantly reduce the need for your lenses and allow people to see without worrying about glasses or contacts. Most people who wear contact lenses and glasses will likely be a candidate for vision correction. However, Dr. Boxer Wachler explains that not everyone will be a candidate and that only meticulous preoperative evaluation will make that determination. He personally consults with each patient to determine candidacy before he agrees to perform a procedure. Known as the “doctor’s doctor,” Dr. Boxer Wachler has changed the lives of thousands of patients, which include many eye surgeons, professional athletes, and entertainers. We have been told for many years that nothing could be done to improve reading problems that develop after the age of 40. Dr. Boxer Wachler has used LASIK with advanced eye-tracking lasers and other progressive procedures to significantly improve reading vision again. This is welcome news for all of us reaching for our reading glasses to read this article! His enthusiasm to make a difference is not only what drives his practice but is what makes him so special to our community. He volunteers his time and resources so that he can help to improve the quality of life for those in need. Dr. Boxer Wachler established the “Vision for All” program that provides vision correction to disadvantage community members. He and his wife Selina, an architect, have been long-time supporters of the Southeast Symphony. They recently spent time downtown Los Angeles at the Fred Jordan Mission volunteering for the annual Christmas Celebration for the inner city community. The official opening of the Boxer Wachler Vision Institute was officiated by the Honorable Mayor Goldman. The Institute is located in the RoxSan Building, N. Roxbury Drive, Beverly Hills. Tel. 310.860.1900 or e-mail to www.boxerwachler.com Jennifer Luci 18 Beverly Hills Sheet The American Jewish Committee Oprah Winfrey, keynote speaker Joe Roth will be presented with the Dorothy and Sherrill C. Corwin Human Relations Award at a gala dinner at the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The event will feature Oprah Winfrey as the keynote speaker and actor/comedian Tim Allen as the evening’s master of ceremonies. Named in memory of Sherrill C. Corwin, a respected film industry figure, and his wife Dorothy, the Corwin award is given to outstanding leaders in the entertainment and communications industries - individuals whose professional and civic endeavors have helped to promote tolerance, understanding and cooperation. Throughout their lives, the Corwins worked tirelessly to promote and support a number of humanitarian causes within the entertainment industry and in the community-at-large. “We are very proud to be honoring Joe Roth with this significant award,” said Bruce M. Ramer, Immediate past national president of the American Jewish Committee. “In addition to his great success as an executive and entrepreneur, and as a director and producer, Joe has made a commitment to civic and charitable activities that is in keeping not only with the ideals of the award itself, but with the tenets of the American Jewish Committee.” Producer of the 2004 Academy Awards telecast, Roth formed Revolution Studios in May 2000 which in its three years of operation has released 21 films, including America’s Sweethearts, which Roth directed, Black Hawk Down, XXX, Anger Joe Roth Management and Daddy Daycare. Prior to founding Revolution Studios, Roth served as Chairman of the Walt Disney Studios from April 1996 to January 2000, Chairman of the Walt Disney Motion Picture Group from August 1994 to April 1996, and Chairman of Twentieth Century Fox from July 1989 to November 1992. Roth also ran Caravan Pictures from 1992-1994. Prior to his time at Twentieth Century Fox, Roth was a producer/director and co-founded Morgan Creek Pictures. Equally noted for his diverse civic and charitable activities, Roth is the recipient of the 1991 Variety Club’s Man of the Year Award, the 1996 Humanitarian Award from the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and the 1997 American Museum of Moving Image Award. He has been honored by AIDS Project Los Angeles and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. roth is also an active supporter of the SIDS Alliance and graduate school instructor on the faculty at UCLA’s independent film and television program. Skim Brittenham and Sir Howard Stringer will serve as the evening’s Honorary Chairs. Dinner Chairs are Peter Chernin, Richard Cook, Brian Grazer, Brad Grey, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Ron Meyer, Amy Pascal, Bruce M. Ramer, and Stacey Snider. Roth joins a distinguished list of past Corwin Award recipients, including George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, Stacey Snider, Jeff Bewkes, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Leslie Moonves, Lucie Salhany, Clint Eastwood, Bob Iger, Ted Turner, Steven J. Ross, Jack Valenti and Bob Hope. The evening’s theme is “Spirit of Life,” which will be reflected in a hardbound photographic journal to be presented to all the guests. Founded in 1906, the American Jewish Committee is dedicated to protecting the civil and religious rights of all people, promoting mutual understanding and advancing democratic values worldwide. For further information about the dinner contact the AJC at 310.282.8080, Ext. 306. Oprah Beverly Hills Sheet 19 A Private Jazz Afternoon with Winton Marsalis Marcia and Jim Curley held a benefit in their Bel Air home, for Jazz at Lincoln Center. Winton Marsalis and his quartet performed. It was a star-studded, high-profile event, 80 people in attendance. And the next night, Winton played to a sold-out house at the Walt-Disney Concert Hall. Winton is the Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center, New York. Winton Marsalis, Marcia and Jim Curley Beverly Hills Sheet Credits Contributing editors Cover stories by: LaVetta, Christina Basi, Jennifer Lucy, earl Heath Mr. Blackwell, Fashion Critic Dale Olson, Anita Talbert Entertainment, Kevin Lee Terry L. King, Executive Travel Editor Link Mathewson Travel Editor and Newport Beach Hal and Eunice David Victoria Rowell Reporter, Dasha Stuart Travel Editor Correspondents Earl Heath, Sports Editor William Moore, European Travel Editor and Marcia Mosebay, Hotel, Spa and Dinning Beverly Hills Sheet is published bi-monthly by Forbes Publishing Editor-in-chief, LaVetta Editorial and Advertising offices at 5455 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1508 Los Angeles, CA 90036 Tel 323.938.9411 - Fax 323.938.1933 Not responsible for unsolicited materials Copyright 2004 Artistic Director Free Design Studio, Hollywood Cover Photo: by Foxwoods Lee Salem Photography All Oscar and Vanity Fair Photos by: Berliner Studios Matt Baron, Jim Smeal Francesco and June Quinn ANITA TALBERT JIM CARREY SOFTENED HIS .... quote about living like a Buddhist Monk (Playboy Magazine March 2004, does that mean no women?) to "just living healthy" when I spoke to him at the press junket (Four Seasons) for his latest film, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Carrey is quoted in the Playboy interview as saying he lives a Spartan life like that of a Buddhist monk but that he won't give up his private plane. H'mmm, don't know any monks with those. P.S. His film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind really proved his ability as a serious actor. KATE WINSLETT ... recently visiting L.A. for the junket for Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind says she is self-conscious when she trots down a red carpet. "I always feel like my feet are too big", says the beautiful thrice Academy Award-nominated English star. As for her being a movie star, she says, "I am a mom who acts." TORI (VICTORIA) SPELLING IS GETTING MARRIED ... to actor/director Charles Shanian this coming August 14th 2004 and their guest book is on Weddingchannel.com where they are registered for Tiffany's and Sonoma Williams. Unfortunately their guest book ranges from sweet, heartfelt wishes to mostly filthy obscene low-life language. How sad for those people who feel so rageful that they must attack others more fortunate than themselves. The talented dou met on stage a few years ago in the Los Angeles production of the romantic comedy "Maybe, Baby It's You" which Shanian co-wrote. Should you have a soft spot for the heiress and her soon-to-be-hubby, there are still lots of gifts registered for the struggling young billionaires. I HEAR THE PRODUCERS OF FOX'S ... The Simple Life are scouting out nudist colonies (for the sequel) where the stars heiress Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie will work in an episode, wonder how happy that'll make star Ritche's very protective daddy Lionel Richie when that airs? SOMEHOW I IMAGINED SHARON STONE ... having something more exciting to do on a recent rainy Saturday night than dine at Kate Mantalini's (albeit a wonderful restaurant) with her new beau Bernie Cahill. But it was obviously a laid-back night for Stone who had on jeans and a leather jacket and the attractive couple waited patiently like everyone else for a table and canoodled with each other in a restrained manner. Stone told me that she had just finished the filming of Catwoman at six that morning so it was obvious that just wanted to unwind, relax and quietly celebrate. Stone also looked quite content to be free of her former husband Phil Bronstein and back out on the scene. LORD OF THE OSCARS ... Director Peter Jackson (Lord of the Rings) had a full on case of jitters while having drinks with friends at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills the night before the Oscars. Everyone knew he had a lock on the little gold man but who could foresee that the Lord of the Rings would sweep the evening racking up eleven little gold statuettes landing in the record books alongside Titanic and Ben-Hur, the only other films ever to earn 11 Oscars? Q'uelle coup! When you pull in a billion bucks at the box-office Hollywood will be at your feet, no easy feat, excuse the pun. A VERY CLOSE SOURCE .... to popular radio icon Casey Kasem says that American Idol host Ryan Seacrest shot his mouth off when he announced (perhaps too early) that he would be doing The American Top 40 Countdown (worldwide) which has been Kasem's baby for years. Although my excellent source says Seacrest isn't doing it, it seems that he is from his special studios near the Kodak Theater. Don't know, I only report what I hear. DONALD TRUMP IS NOT JUST ... another pretty face from the Big Apple, he is the Big Apple and his TVQ has skyrocketed in the past few months since his (and Survivor producer Mark Burnett's) hit show (NBC) The Apprentice has hit the airwaves. The program is so smart that it is now a required course at the Wharton School of Business. Recently Mr. New York was feted by Los Angeles Confidential Magazine at Club Bliss (LA) where a few hundred Hollywood personalities including Mark Wahlberg, Bill Maher, Tom Arnold, Nikki Hilton, Kyle MacLachlan, Melissa Rivers, George Hamilton and scores more gathered to pay homage to Trump and to the power, society and electricity of Hollywood during pre-Oscar week. There stood The Donald with his prize possession on his arm, no not a Platinum Chopard watch, but longtime European hottie girlfriend Melania Knauss who looked dazzling in black and diamonds. Others at that party included David Caruso star of CBS'S hit CSI, talk-show host Montel Williams (says he is doing well with his MS condition), Francisco Quinn actor son of Anthony Quinn (doing a slew of action Indies and trying to grow his hair out for a new one), father and son actor-duo Gary and Jake Busey, Amber Tamblyn (from "Joan of Arcadia", daughter of Russ Tamblyn), $6 million man Lee Majors looking like $10 million who says he is in back in town and "looking for work." Stopping by for a drink was super sleuth Dominick Dunne on his way to the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, he is picking the brains of everyone who knew Lana Clarkson found dead in music-icon Phil Spector's mansion. Also spotted taking a twirl down the red carpet was uber-Vanity Fair Chief Graydon Carter before going on to host his own Oscar Vanity Fair Party at Morton's. Michelle Phillips was with husband Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Steven Zax both of whom were rooting for Alec Baldwin brother of her son-in-law Billy Baldwin for his role in The Cooler. EX BAYWATCH HOTTIE ... Traci Bingham looked fabulous in a crystal plunging gown on Oscar night showing off her mega engagement diamond, the lucky guy is John Yarborough an investment banker in Beverly Hills. "He bought me a house for my birthday and we are getting married in October", said the deliriously happy Bingham. "Isn't he handsome", she gushed. Gypsy Awards Jane Withers, Carol Burnett Photos by Nathan Sternfeld Chita Rivera and Rob Marshall received Gypsy Awards from Professional Dancers Society Broadway icon Chita Rivera and “Chicago” director Rob Marshall were presented the Professional Dancers Society’s (PDS) “Gypsy” Award at the show business charity’s annual gala at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Earlier “Gypsy” honorees Angela Lansbury and Dick Van Dyke presented the award to Rivera, while “Chicago” Executive Producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, Carol Burnett and Dom DeLuise joined in the tribute to Marshall before an industry crowd of more than 650 dancers and choreographers from film, television and the theatre. Hosted by newly-installed President Mitzi Gaynor, the music-filled afternoon was highlighted by a tribute to the late Donald O’Connor, who had Chaired the PDS since its inception almost 20 years ago. Gaynor, who co-starred with O’Connor in “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” offered a heart filled testimonial to the iconic dancer’s career and contributions to the entertainment industry. The film clip tribute to O’Connor, as well as to Rivera and Marshall, was produced by Lee Hale, who annually organizes stunning visual tributes to the Gypsy honorees. Mitzi Gaynor (L), Rob Marshall, Chita Rivera (R) Valerie Pettiford, Fayard Nicholas Red Buttons, (L) Bea Arthur, Angela Lansbury, Norm Crosby Bravo Awards The Music Center of Los Angeles County held the 22nd Bravo Awards Gala dinner at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel. For the first time, there were two ties: two schools and two arts teachers won along with a general classroom teacher. The Bravo Awards honor a school, an arts specialist working directly in an arts field, and a general classroom teacher who integrates the arts in all subject areas. The Bravo Awards are supported by Club 100, a Music Center support group. Rosalind Zane is Club 100 president; Bravo gala co-chairs are Roberta Haft and Maggy Martino. The two winning schools were Kester Elementary in Van Nuys (principal Sandi Barrett) and Multnomah Elementary in El Sereno (principal Beth Bythrow). Hosted since their inception by acclaimed producer/director Garry Marshall, the Bravo Awards are one of the many programs run by the Music Center Education Division, currently serving one million students and teachers annually. Music Center Bravo Award winning schoool principals Beth Bythrow (left) of Multnomah Elementary in El Sereno and Sandi Barrett of Kester Avenue Elementary in Van Nuys (right) with gala chair Roberta Haft (Beverly Hills). L-R 2004 Music Center Bravo Gala chairs Roberta Haft (Beverly Hills), Maggy Martino (Sherman Oaks). Club 100 President Rosalind Zane (Hidden Hills), Bravo producer Lynda Jenner (Pasadena). The Hotel des Bergues Geneva, Switzerland The Hotel des Bergues, established in 1834, has been classified as a Historical Monument. Each of the 122 rooms and suites have been entirely refurbished and most offer commanding views of the Lake, Old Town and the French Alps. A Royal Suite is on the Bel Etage, overlooking Lake Geneva, and access to a private terrace. Large entrance with spacious living room, dining room and decorative fireplace. Master bedroom with sitting area, dressing room, sumptuous marble bathroom overlooking the lake, fitness corner, jacuzzi solarium, T.V. The Presidential Suite is located on the first floor with a lake view. Living room with dining area and working space, entrance hall, large bedroom with ensuite marble bathroom. Deluxe suites are one or two bedrooms separated by a large living room. Entrance, desk. Beautiful view on the Lake and the Old Town. Junior suite is a luxurious room with an elegant and defined sitting area. Studio suite is one large bedroom with spacious sitting area and working desk. Deluxe rooms are exceptionally spacious rooms, with a choice of king-size or twin beds. Many rooms feature additional closet space. Various views on Lake Geneva and the Alps are available. Executive rooms have either a quiet interior location or city view. Most of them decorated with an individual reproduction of Claude Monet’s masterpieces. An album showing all paitings is available at the reception for your personal choice of rooms. Restaurant & Bar Le Pavillon is a city restaurant, brasserie style. Beautiful Summer terrace, covered. A large buffet is suggested for breakfast and lunch. A daily special and à la carte menus are changed regularly. L’Amphitryon chef David Felisaz proposes a refined and creative cuisine, essentially based on seasonal products, Gourmet restaurant. Le Bar des Bergues has a cozy atmostphere, where one can enjoy a quick and light lunch with a “Cru au verre.” During happy hours, the bar becomes the trendiest place in Geneva with famous cocktails prepared by Max, our friendly barman. The Salon Dufour, nestled between the Bar and the lobby, is the ideal lounge for informal meetings, or just to relax. Some famous people who have stayed at the Hotel des Bergues: Prince Charles, The Prince of Wales, The King Léopold 1er de Belgique, The Queen Wilhelmine and the Royal Family of Danmark, Jean Cocteau, Sophia Loren, Marechal Joffre and Agha Khan. Kempinski Grand Hôtel Des Bains St. Moritz, Switzerland K empinski Hotels & Resorts has signed a 20 year lease agreement for its first property in Switzerland, giving the luxury European hotel group a presence in the exclusive resort of St. Moritz. The former Parkhotel Kurhaus was a privately owned four star hotel reopened after an investment of over $55 million in extensive renovations, under Kempinski’s management, as the deluxe five star ‘Kempinski Grand Hôtel des Bains.’ In 1366 BC, the first mineral springs in the world were discovered on the site - a fact which has made St. Moritz popular since the Middle Ages. The Kempinski hotel opened in December 2002, in time for the winter season 2002/2003 and the Skiing World Championship 2003. The hotel is spacious, built in a low-rise style with two towers, which house the top suites. It is located in St. Moritz Bad, close to the lake and is surrounded by forest, with the start of the cross-country ski tracks on one side an one of the town’s main cable cars on the other. The designer is Strabag AG from Vienna, Austria. Rooms are classically elegant using a colour scheme of terracotta, gold and green, along with cherry wood to enhance the light spacious feel. Art deco touches reflect the glorious hey-day of St. Moritz with handmade chrome fixtures in the bathrooms and streamlined light fittings. Large public rooms are lavishly furnished with antiques as well as newly designed pieces - again with an art-deco theme. The Enoteca La Vigna is located in the main building on the lobby level, next to the “Library,” facing the park. It is a rectangular room with four columns. The room has natural daylight and features historic wall paneling and ceiling paintings. It is considered by many to be one of the most classic and attractive rooms in all of St. Moritz. The hotel, situated walking distance from the picturesque lake, has 184 rooms and suites, two restaurants, a wellness centre and state of the art spa. Indoor and outdoor tennis courts and the public swimming pool are within walking distance, rendering the Kempinski’s the most extensive leisure facilities in town. The new casino is adjacent to the hotel and Kempinski guests will receive priority VIP membership during their stay. The food and beverage emphasis is on luxury, with a grand dining room open for lavish buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is a gourmet restaurant for a more intimate experience. St. Moritz is the world’s most famous ski resort and was the pioneer of Alpine winter holidays in 1864. Home to the Winter Olympics of 1928 and 1948, and more recently the Ski World Championships 2003, it also boasts the legendary Cresta Run. Kempinski Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio comprises over 30 distinctive properties in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South America, Asia and Australasia. Each offers superior standards of service combined with a style reflecting the individuality of the property and its location. Landmark properties include the Ciragan Palace Hotel Kempinski in Istanbul and Hotel Adlon in Berlin. Reservations: 1.800.426.3135 www.kempinski.com Charlize Theron Best Actress 2004 Renée Zellweger Best Supporting Actress 2004