BHC Concours

E X TRA EDITION JUNE 19, 2011

1953 Fiat 8V Ghia Supersonic

Celebrating Italian, lifestyle, flavor & design through June 26

2012 Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4

2012 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Supersport

2012 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grandsport

Page 2 | June 19, 2011

La Dolce Vita Beverly Hills

BEVERLY HILLS

Celebrates Italy’s 150th Anniversary

Motoring, Cinema, Fashion, Cycling And Culinary Events Planned Through June 26

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his month, the famous Fellini film La Dolce Vita comes to life in Beverly Hills to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Unification of Italy.

Endorsed by the Italian Embassy in Washington, D.C., under the auspices of the president of the Republic of Italy and the Consulate General of Italy in Los Angeles, “La Dolce Vita Beverly Hills” will celebrate Italian automobiles, cinema, jewelry, cycling and cuisine through June 26. The Italian Ministry of Economic Development, the Italian Trade Commission and Cinecittà Luce are joining forces with the Rodeo Drive Committee and the Beverly Hills Conference and Visitors Bureau to create one of the largest celebrations of Italy’s birthday on the West Coast. Many of the events are made possible with support of Italian companies like FIAT, Ferrari and Colnago.

The week-long event pays tribute to Italian lifestyle, flavor and design with special events and offerings throughout the City including the Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance (right) celebrating “The Art of Italian Motoring;” a celebration of 50 years of Italian film presented by Cinecittà Luce at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences; “Gioiello” celebrating the craftsmanship and design of Italy’s most respected jewelers; the first-ever Gran Fondo cycling event in the Los Angeles area; and Italian Dining Week at renowned Beverly Hills’ “ristoranti.”

“From fashion and automobiles to cinema and dining, the best of Italy will be highlighted throughout this week-long celebration in Beverly Hills,” said Italy’s Consul General Nicola Faganello. “This is an exceptional way to help celebrate the 150th anniversary of the reunification of Italy and allow Beverly Hills residents and visitors to experience the best of Italian culture without leaving the city.”

“We are honored to host one of the largest West Coast celebrations of Italy’s 150th anniversary here in Beverly Hills,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Barry Brucker. “Our city offers many of Italy’s finest fashions, automobiles and culinary tastes and this celebration is a wonderful way to showcase those great businesses.”

Under the auspices of the Consulate

General of Italy in Los Angeles and in Ambassador Umberto Vattani, president of the collaboration with the Italian Trade Italian Trade Commission—ITC, is “honored Commission to celebrate the 150th to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Italian Unification, and pleased to seize the opportuAnniversary of the Unification of Italy. nity offered by such an ideal scenario to promote Italian excellence. With this project, supported by the Italian Ministry of Economic Development and organized in collaboration with • The 2011 Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance — “The Art of Italian Motoring” — 10 Cinecittà Luce, the ITC is implementing a new and intea.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, June 19 — Along Rodeo Drive. The annual Father’s Day event will grated system for promoting Italian lifestyle, bringing our highlight more than 125 superb automobiles, motorcycles and designers and will feature movie industry and luxury goods manufacturers all Italian makes and models including Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Fiat, Lamborghini, Lancia and together in Beverly Hills.”

Maserati.

“Partnering with the Italian Trade Commission to cele• Cinecittà Luce, Italy’s most famous film studio will celebrate Italian Cinema at the brate Italy’s 150th anniversary was a natural connection Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences on June 24 and at the American as Rodeo Drive is home to many of Italy’s most famous Cinematheque’s AERO Theatre on June 25. rsvpbeverlyhills@gmail.com or 323-769-3573. designers and the world-class Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance,” said Thomas J. Blumenthal, immediate past “Gioiello” Week, through June 26 in Beverly Hills. The week-long festivities will feature spepresident of the Rodeo Drive Committee, the street’s cial events and promotions at luxury jewelers including Buccellati, Bvlgari, Damiani, Gearys merchants association and marketing arm. “We are Beverly Hills and Vhernier on Rodeo Drive. proud of the tremendous calendar of events that will be taking place throughout the week on the street and invite • The first-ever “Gran Fondo” (“The Big Ride”) cycling event takes off on June 26 with the all of our guests to join us in the celebration.” starting line on Rodeo Drive. More than 1,000 cycling enthusiasts from throughout the West will depart Beverly Hills to Malibu and back, ending at an Italian village at 9900 Wilshire.

“I’m proud and honored to see Italian cinema part of www.granfondousa.com. such a great initiative to promote the best of Italy’s creativity in the mecca of the movie industry,” said Roberto • Italian Week Dining at Beverly Hills - June 19-26. Nine famed Italian “ristoranti” will offer Cicutto, president of Cinecittà Luce. “Working together special prix fixe menus and promotions. Diners can select from an assortment from Italian with the Ministry of Economic Development, the dishes during each course: “Primi Piatti,” “Secondi Piatti,” and “Dolce,” for $28 per person Ministry of Culture and the Italian Trade Commission for lunch and ranging from $30 to $60 for dinner. around the world like we do, Beverly Hills is the best possible place to reach our goals.”

For more information on La Dolce Vita Beverly Hills, visit

La Dolce Vita Beverly Hills - What’s Happening

www.lovebeverlyhills.com or www.rodedrivebh.com.

BEVERLY HILLS

June 19, 2011 | Page 3

BEVERLY HILLS

Page 4 | June 19, 2011

Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance: The Art of Italian Motoring - Sunday, June 19

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he 2011 Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance will celebrate “The Art of Italian Motoring.”

Fiat is the 2011 honored marque and will prominently feature the 2012 Fiat 500, as well as offer ride-anddrive opportunities for guests in the 2012 Fiat 500.

The annual Father’s Day event will highlight more than 125 superb automobiles, motorcycles and designers and will feature Italian makes and models including the best selection of Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Fiat, Lamborghini, Lancia and Maserati from throughout Southern California and the Western United States.

2012 Fiat 500 Sport models with “Barcode” decal (left) and “Checker” decal (right), and 2012 Fiat 500c with bodyside stripe.

The event will feature Italy’s leading design companies, including vehicles envisioned by Bertone, Frua, Ghia, Michelotti, Pininfarina, Touring and Zagato.

Other modes of Italian transportation will also be on display including a rare chance to view an authentic 38-foot gondola from the canals of Venice, Italy on Two Rodeo’s

The Fiat 8V Supersonic, body by Ghia, owned by David Sydorick.

Photos by Scott Williamson / www.photodesignstudios.com.

Fiat Celebrates Its Italian Automotive Heritage

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2012 Fiat 500 and a gourmet coffee bar with cappuccino and espresso. Specially designed Fiat planters will bring added design elements and focus to the event.

As the event’s featured brand, Fiat will prominently showcase the 2012 Fiat 500, which is deeply rooted in iconic Italian design and style. Fiat will display 14 “Cinquecento” vehicles in all 14 exterior colors, as well as vintage vehicles such as an original Fiat 500.

“Fiat is thrilled to be the honored marque at the 2011 Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance,” said Laura Soave, head of Fiat Brand North America. “Rodeo Drive is a perfect location to feature the iconic Fiat 500, and we look forward to sharing our Italian heritage with car lovers in picturesque Beverly Hills.”

he Fiat brand celebrates its Italian heritage as the honored marque of this year’s Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance. The annual Father’s Day event is free and open to the public.

Guests will be treated to test drives of the

(see ‘HERITAGE,’ page 7)

Via Rodeo.

Legendary motorcycles including Ducati, Lambretta, Moto Guzzi and Vespa will also be included in this year’s “concorso.”

An annual Father’s Day tradition, the Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance is an exclusive display of luxury automobiles set against the backdrop of world-class Rodeo Drive boutiques.

Celebrating the unique relationship between the automotive, fashion and entertainment industries, the spectacular car show is free and open to the public.

The Concours has been named one of the “300 Unmissable Events & Festivals Around the World” by top travel publisher Frommer’s.

The first-ever Concours on Rodeo was held in conjunction with the world premiere of the Ferrari 348 Spider in 1993.

BEVERLY HILLS

June 19, 2011 | Page 5

BEVERLY HILLS

Page 6 | June 19, 2011

Only in...

Fashion Forward! Monthly Section Today, Turn Page

BEVERLY HILLS Gregory Peck honored at Beverly Hills Post Office. 4

Laurice Rahme scentilating new fragrance

Peninsula Hotels worldwide band together to support Japan.

4

Bondd 9

•

LA Councilman Koretz Attacks City On Tunnel

By Brenton Garen Los Angeles City Councilmember Paul Koretz publicly accused Beverly Hills residents and officials of “grasping at straws” to stop Metro tunneling under Beverly Hills High School and labeled their arguments as “suspicious” at a press conference yesterday. When asked for specifics, he stumbled and did not give a direct response.

The Century City Chamber of Commerce held the conference at Avenue of the Stars and Constellation – the location it publicly supports along with Koretz, the Century City Homeowners (see ‘KORETZ,’ page 30)

Mr. C Beverly Hills officially opened as flagship West Coast location.

4

Carolina a Herrera

Debbie Reynolds to hold Hollywood memorabilia auction on June 17.

5

2012 Spring Exclusive Preview

MOCA

BHPD held successful Neighborhood Watch meeting last Sunday.

5 •Fashion A-L •Restaurant Review 14 •Arts and Entertainment 23 •Education 24-25 •Birthdays 26

Art In The Streets Meets Summer Styles

George Christy, Page 6 Living dreams that change lives for thousands; Bowing to Wallis and Phil who give back; California Champagne is a hit in China.

Hypercolor Roberto Cavalli Emilio Pucci

Editorial from Rabbi Pressman AND MORE

CLASSIFIEDS • Announcements • Real Estate • Rentals • Sales • and More

Street Chic

www.bhcourier.com

SINCE 1965

George Christy

JUNE 10, 2011

Celebration Of ‘La Dolce Vita’ Begins In June, the famous Fellini film La Dolce Vita comes to life in Beverly Hills to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the unification of Italy.

Endorsed by the Italian Embassy in Washington, D.C. under the auspices of the president of the Republic of Italy and the Consulate General of Italy in Los Angeles, “La Dolce Vita Beverly Hills” will celebrate Italian automobiles, cinema, jewelry, cycling and cuisine from June 18-26.

The Italian Ministry of Economic Development, the Italian Trade Commission and Cinecittà Luce have joined forces with the Rodeo Drive Committee and the Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau to create one of the largest celebrations of Italy’s birthday on the West Coast. Many of the events are made possible with support of Italian companies such as FIAT, Ferrari LA DOLCE VITA BEVERLY HILLS—The Rodeo Drive Concours and Colnago.

D’Elegance will feature more than 100 Italian cars on June 19.

Event Chairs Kate Capshaw and Rita Wilson with honoree Annette Bening

“I

(see ‘ITALIAN WEEK,’ page 30)

faced three scenarios with Harvey. The first? He tried to charm the hell out of me. That weaseling didn’t work, he insisted on buying whatever I had on film, which I suspected he’d nuke. War was the third option, but we never got there,” says Barry Avrich, who wrote, directed and filmed Unauthorized, the documentary about Tinsel Town’s tiger-in-residence Harvey Weinstein.

By Brenton Garen Brooks Brothers general manager Jim Jahant was unanimously voted as new Rodeo Drive Committee (RDC) president Wednesday for a three-year term.

Jahant joined the RDC eight years ago when he was hired by Brooks Brothers to run its Rodeo Drive store.

In 2006, he joined the RDC’s

(see ‘BILL WILEY,’ page 28)

Bill Wiley

(see ‘RDC,’ page 28)

“O

ver our breakfast meeting in L.A., Harvey was determined to sway me,” continues Barry. “He suggested that I film a documentary about Martin Scorsese instead. I refused, and he warned, ‘Monday morning I’ll have a crew at your door, and make a film about you.’”

Jim Jahant

Bosse Vs. Brien: Budget Split

By Courier Staff Newly-elected Councilmember Lili Bosse and Vice Mayor Willie Brien brought radically different approaches to managing the City’s money in what City CFO Scott Miller called “poor economic times” at Tuesday’s council meeting.

Bosse has shaken up City Hall by reading budgets, analyz-

ing staff reports and asking tough questions.

“I’m reading the budgets and I want to know where our money is going,” she told The Courier.

Her approach contrasts vividly with the attitude of Brien who said at Tuesday’s meeting, “I could go line by line through the

Described

as “50% genius and 50% a—hole,” Harvey’s a great character, like him or not, who we like and respect. Often portrayed like those do-or-die moguls from Hollywood past.

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he timing for Unauthorized couldn’t be better, claims Barry, who’s spoton since Harvey’s in the news for The King’s Speech, a favorite among favorites for a slew of Oscars.

(see ‘SPLIT,’ page 30)

HS Invited To Rep US In China

By Courier Staff Beverly Hills High School has been invited to represent the entire United States in Beijing, China this August.

One high school from the United States, Japan, South Korea, India, Korea and Australia was invited to participate in

B

arry premiered Unauthorized last weekend in his native Canada, and it opens this spring in the U.S. He recalls setbacks such as Peter Fonda agreeing to narrate the film, then backing out on his agent’s advice.

Clearances for The Empire State of Mind dueted by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys were confirmed, and mysteriously dropped, says Toronto Star critic Peter Howell, who rates

(see ‘CHINA,’ page 20)

36

inside

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om Hanks and Rita Wilson made it happen, for Conan O’Brien to host An Unforgettable Evening. “They called, and I couldn’t turn them Thus spoke Cee Lo Green with host Jennifer Meyer with hus- down.” band Tobey Maguire Conan at the Beverly Conan O’Brien Wilshire during the Hollywood’s aware that there’s Entertainment Industry Fund nobody like Harvey to masterthe film with three stars. “Barry mind Oscar campaigns, as he gala benefiting cancer research did end up with a better appre- did for Shakespeare in Love, for women. ciation of Harvey, but without which garnered an Oscar for on Meyer and Kelly total admiration.”

Gwyneth Paltrow, bypassing Chapman Meyer followed up Cate Blanchett for her memoby asking Martin Short to arry reiterates that rable portrayal as Queen accept the EMF’s 2011 Courage Unauthorized is a “fair and bal- Elizabeth I in Elizabeth.

Award in behalf of his actress anced portrait,” and his interviewife Nancy, who lost her life to wees include Martin Scorsese nauthorized opened to Martin and a colorful cross section of media buzz in Toronto, e-mails cancer in August.

Hollywood players. Peter Bart, our Canadian informant, hote- agreed.

Alan Dershowitz, Mike lier Hans Gerhardt, whose hortly afterward, Annette Medavoy, John Irving, and the memoir, HotelBiz, is a must late George Hickenlooper, who read for hoteliers and hotel Bening was invited to receive the Nat King Cole let it all hang out, with Harvey guests the world over. Hans’ award for her fighting back that “George is a book is available at our charitable loser.”

Roots store in Beverly works and conHills. In his e-mail he tributions. arry’s previous film, The mentions that Kim Last Mogul, documented the life Cattrall will star in the of Cleveland-born Lew Wasserman, the late Universal Studio powerhouse. “I wanted to do these documentaries to meet these important people close up.”

Martin Short and Steven Spielberg take a twirl at the Beverly Wilshire during the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s Gala benefiting cancer research for women. Martin accepted the EIF’s 2011 Courage Award on behalf of his late wife Nancy.

Bill Wiley Poised To Become Brooks Brothers GM Named CVB Chairman Next Month As New Rodeo Drive President

By John L. Seitz When famed hotelier Ali Kasikci steps down as chairman of the Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau next month, his successor is already set to pick up the gauntlet and spread the word about the wonders of the City he loves.

Bill Wiley will move up to the top spot in the BHCVB on July 1. The Pennsylvania native

Saks Fifth Avenue’s Karin and Steve Sadow with EFI President Lisa Paulsen

Mirvish production of Private Lives this fall. In 1983, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton toured in the Noel Coward comedy that’s become a classic.

A HOT NIGHT FOR LEGS—Elle Fanning, Amanda Bynes and Cameron Diaz participated in the 2011 MTV Movie Awards at the Gibson Amphitheatre. More photos in George Christy’s column on page 6.

Janet Gough, Gilbert Flores/Celebrity Photo

Balmain

R

B

U

S

B

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ihanna confirmed she’d perform, but was laid low, although she appeared at Grammy parties several days later. On Grammy night she looked hot in her Jean Paul Gaultier Couture gown (as seen in her photo on these pages).

Trooper Cee Lo Green filled in for Rihanna, Saks Fifth Avenue’s Steve Sadow emerged as a supporter, and the gala came through with $l.7 million.

Bravo to all.

A

ccepting the award for his wife Nancy, Martin concluded, “Better to have married a Short than never to have loved a Tall.”

“B

lack, black, black!

Will L.A. women ever get tired of wearing black?” asked Princess Lilly Fallah Lawrence who was celebrating St. Valentine’s birthday at Vincenti Ristorante in Brentwood. “In Paris, Madrid, Vienna, and leading cities throughout Europe and Asia women dress with Continued on next page...

Fashion Stars!

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arvey and brother Bob Weinstein founded Miramax Pictures (named after mother Miriam and dad Max), which they sold to Disney, and later created the Weinstein C o m p a ny.

They’ve produced awardw i n n i n g movies, and this year’s The King Speech is being blitzkrieged for Oscar nominations.

Glamourizing the Grammy Awards at Staples Center were Jennifer Lopez (Emilio Pucci), Jennifer Hudson (Versace), Katy Perry (Armani Couture) with husband Russell Brand, Lea Michele (Emilio Pucci) and Julianne Hough (Marandrino).

Page 6 | February 18, 2011

And more...

Jamie Tisch

Everything fell into place, with Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw serving as chairs, along with Rita and Tom.

Celebrity Photo/Gilbert Flores

THIS ISSUE

Alex J. Berliner/ABImages

VOLUME XXXXVII NUMBER 23 $135 PER YEAR - $1.25 PER COPY

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BEVERLY HILLS

June 10, 2011 | Page B

The Beverly Hills Courier: #1 in Beverly Hills!

But did you know we are also #1 in BEL AIR, CENTURY CITY and we're almost #1 in WESTWOOD? (We're growing in Brentwood, too.)

Here are the audited numbers: Zip Code Beverly Hills Beverly Hills Beverly Hills Westwood Bel Air Century City

Los Angeles Times* 90210 90211 90212 90024 90077 90067

KEY AREA CIRCULATION:

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The Beverly Hills Courier -- your ONLY way to reach the best luxury market in the world.

Nearly 3:1 advantage over the Los Angeles Times! PEOPLE READ US! … See us online at www.bhcourier.com over 3 million page views per month and 14 million hits! ** Courier circulation audited by Circulation Verification Council, St. Louis, Missouri. Report dated March 31, 2011. * Los Angeles Times "Average Daily M-F" circulation audited by Audit Bureau of Circulations. Report dated March 28, 2010 (report one year old since then the Times has reported further circulation losses.)

BEVERLY HILLS

June 19, 2011 | Page 7

HERITAGE (Continued from page 4)

“Fiat brand’s participation in the 2011 Rodeo Drive Concours promises to bring another level of excitement for our spectators as they will have exclusive access to the latest in Italian motoring,” said Bruce Meyer, chairman of the Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance. “This annual event is a Father’s Day tradition for thousands of Southern California residents,

car collectors and aficionados, and this year’s selection of world-class Italian entries promises to be one of the best.”

Since its initial launch in 2007, more than 500,000 Fiat 500 vehicles have been sold in more than 80 countries around the world (For more on the Fiat 500, see page 10) . In addition to success on the sales front, the Fiat 500 has earned 60 international awards, including being named the 2008 European Car of the Year, 2009 World Car Design of the Year, Best New Engine of 2010 (FIAT MultiAir® Turbo).

The new 2012 Fiat 500 and Fiat 500c (cabrio) offer high levels of safety, fuel economy, quality and advanced technology. With its city-friendly four-passenger size, engaging driving dynamics, all-new fuel-efficient 1.4-liter MultiAir® engine with eco:Drive Application, state-of-the-art TomTom® Navigation with BLUE&ME Handsfree Communication technology and seven standard air bags, the new Fiat 500 offers a driving and ownership experience unlike anything available today. This package is further enhanced with new quality and refinement adaptations for the U.S. market, including an all-new six-speed automatic transmission.

Collectors Bringing Not-To-Be Missed Cars To the Concours Include:

2012 Fiat 500

Tim Walker

1949 Alfa Romeo 6c2500

David Sydorick

1953 Fiat 8V Ghia Supersonic 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Zagato 1956 Maserati A6G2000 Zagato 1956 Alfa Romeo 900 Zagato

Gary Wales

1912 Fiat 9 Literer

Alan Clendenen

1911 Fiat B

John D’Agostino

1975 Stutz

Don Rose

1977 Maserrati Khamsin

Page 8 | June 19, 2011

BEVERLY HILLS

BEVERLY HILLS

June 19, 2011 | Page 9

Cinecittà Luce Celebrates Italian Film U

nder the auspices of the Consulate General of Italy in Los Angeles and in collaboration with the Italian Trade Commission to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy and “La Dolce Vita Beverly Hills,” Cinecittà Luce, Italy’s most famous film studio will celebrate Italian Cinema at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences in Beverly Hills on June 24 and at the American Cinematheque’s AERO Theatre on June 25.

The screenings are free and open to the public with limited availability on a firstcome, first-served basis.

RSVP required for the June 24 screening at RSVP: rsvpbeverlyhills@gmail.com or 323-769-3573.

Film highlights include: June 24, 8-10:30 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.)

Location: Academy of Motion Picture Arts and

Sciences RSVP: rsvpbeverlyhills@gmail.com or 323-769-3573

only way out is to turn to the oldest profession in the world.

NESSUNO MI PUO’ GIUDICARE: No One Can Judge Me

By Massimiliano Bruno - 97 min.

This film recently won three David di Donatello Awards also known as the Italian Oscars. The sentimental comedy is one of friendship and solidarity starring Paola

June 25 Location: American Cinematheque at the AERO Theatre Open to the public

Cortellesi, Raul Bova and Rocco Papaleo. The movie chronicles the life of a 35year-old woman whose life seems to have a silver lining until her husband dies in an accident and she finds herself reduced to poverty. Her

UN ALTRO MONDO: Another World – 5 p.m.

By Silvio Muccino – 110 min Based on the novel by Carla Evangelista, Andrea is a wealthy 20-something who is pulled away from his devil-may-care lifestyle to visit his dying father in Nairobi, Kenya. Upon arrival in Africa, Andrea learns his father has already died, and that he has an 8-year-old stepbrother, Charlie, of whom he is now the legal guardian. A geographic and personal journey ensues, in which Andrea must decide to either return to his previous life in Rome, or commit to Charlie as his new brother.

LA DONNA DELLA MIA VITA: The Woman Of My Life – 7:30 pm

By Luca Lucini – 108 min Leonardo (Luca Argentero) and Giorgio (Alessandro Gassman) are brothers with completely opposite personalities - Leonardo is sensitive

and trustworthy, while Giorgio is an outlandish, incorrigible playboy. When Leonardo enters into a serious relationship with Sara

(Valentina Lodovini), a woman with whom Giorgio previously had a tumultuous affair, a delightfully chaotic love triangle is formed, with feelings and behaviors coming to the surface that no one could have anticipated.

LA VITA FACILE: The Easy Life – 9:30 p.m.

By Lucio Pellegrini – 102 min Luca (Pierfrancesco Favino) has abandoned his affluent life as a doctor in Rome, and now works in a ramshackle hospital in Kenya. When his life-long friend Mario surprises him by showing up in Africa to assist him with his new life and career, Luca welcomes the idea of someone familiar, but soon it becomes apparent that Mario may have had ulterior criminal reasons for hastily leaving Italy. Things are not aided by the additional arrival of Ginevra, Mario’s wife, whom Luca has long been in love with.

BEVERLY HILLS

Page 10 | June 19, 2011

The Fiat 500: An Iconic Car Of Our Time

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Nuova Fiat 500 1957

ome cars go down in history for their technological or stylistic innovations. Others deserve to be remembered for the role they have played in the daily life of an entire generation or an entire country.

Few succeed in combining the two: technology and sentiment. They leave an indelible mark, becoming a sort of icon of their age. The 500 from Fiat was one of these.

In a career lasting 18 years, from 1957 to 1975, exactly 3,893,294 examples of the original Fiat 500 were built, and it helped Italians and numerous other Europeans satisfy the need for individual mobility that began to gain momentum from the early 1950s.

The Nuova 500, even more than the larger 600 (introduced in 1955), also brought the end of the post-war emergency period and the start of the striving for comfort, and for economic recovery.

The Fiat Nuova 500 was not just a brilliant idea by Dante Giacosa, like the 600 and the many other cars he designed.

Vittorio Valletta, Fiat managing director first, and then company chairman from 1946 (after the death of Fiat’s founder Giovanni Agnelli), originally asked Giacosa to start thinking of new cars that could go into production after WWII, while Turin was still being targeted by Allied air raids, and the

Mirafiori offices were occupied by the German “allies-occupiers.”

The Fiat Nuova 500 made its debut in the summer of 1957, with an excessively Spartan cabin outfit, just two seats and a rear bench. The car could only accommodate two people, but it could carry 154 pounds (70 kg) of luggage, which was important at the time.

The diminutive Fiat Nuova 500 was just 116 inches (2.97 meters) long, 52 inches (1.32 meters) wide and 52 inches (1.325 meters) tall. It had a wheelbase of 72.5 inches (1.84 meters). Empty, it weighed 1,036 pounds (470 kg), and fully laden, 1,500 pounds (680 kg). The rounded, well-proportioned lines recalled an egg, and one distinctive feature was the canvas roof that opened right to the rear of the vehicle, like the one on the 500 Topolino, incorporating the transparent plastic rear window. Giacosa’s design of the Nuova 500 won the designer the prestigious ‘Golden Compass’ award for industrial design in 1959.

The front and rear suspension were independent with upper cross links, a transverse lower leaf spring and telescopic dampers (at the front), and cross links, large coil springs and telescopic dampers (at the rear). Because there was no other space available, the 4.4gallon (20-liter) barrel-shaped fuel tank was located under the front hood.

BEVERLY HILLS

June 19, 2011 | Page 11

Glamour & Dolce Vita For Cycling Enthusiasts

Gran Fondo USA Goes Stylish With Special Edition In BH

The scene at a mass start for a Gran Fondo event.

G

ran Fondo USA, the Italian-themed mass cycling event, is ready to launch its new destination, into the most exclusive and legendary California neighborhood: Beverly Hills. The upcoming edition will take place Sunday, June 26.

The premiere Gran Fondo Colnago Los Angeles aims to attract thousands of local bike fans and their families was well as national and international cycling enthusiasts. The non-professional cycling market in the U.S. is experiencing tremendous growth; it is estimated there are 30 million recreational cyclists, three million of whom are avid participants of Gran Fondo.

Gran Fondo’s experience will kick off at 10 a.m., June 25 in the 9900 Wilshire Blvd parking lot (across from the Beverly Hilton), where participants can pick up their race bag and enjoy a cyclists’ expo featuring products and services, along with attractions for families and friends. There are plans for some Italian cuisine to be available for sale, while a VIP, invita-

tion-only event, is planned in the evening.

The actual bike ride will start at 7 a.m. sharp on Sunday, June 26 at the north end of the 400 block of Rodeo Drive and Little Santa Monica. Cyclists will line up in the 300 and 400 block of rodeo Drive while Ferraris and Ducatis will head the riders north and then west onto Big Santa Monica to Wilshire, all to the recorded operatic strains of well-known Italian arias performed by Pavarotti. Participants will then ride toward the ocean, embracing challenging ascents and hills, rolling through breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

A lively and authentic Italian lunch will reload all returning cyclists’ carb levels, while VIPs are going to enjoy their own special treatment with superlative wines, gourmet foods and delicacies served with the best Italian hospitality flare.

Plans for bike demonstrations are also in the works along with family fun and entertainment. King and Queen of the Mountain will be crowned in the afternoon.

Gran Fondo means “big ride” in Italian. They are long-distance, mass-participation events—not races—that are immensely popular in Italy.

Participation is open to both recreational and competitive cyclists, and tens of thousands of riders of all abilities participate. Just like in Italy, each Gran Fonda USA event includes a mass start, and two challenging routes.

In the Los Angeles edition there will be respectively 72 and 39 miles of courses. “The success of our events comes from our strong commitment to the ‘made in Italy’ theme,” said the founder of Gran Fondo USA, Matteo Gerevini, “after three successful editions of the Gran Fondo Colnago San Diego and one edition of the Gran Fondo Colnago Philadelphia, we are now excited to launch this new event in Beverly Hills.”

“We are proud supporters of the Gran Fondo Colnago series in California,” said Nicola Gaanello, consul general of Italy in Los Angeles. “This event is a great opportunity to showcase the ‘Italian way of life’ in this part of the United States, fostering and promoting Italian excellences on the American market. A perfect conclusion of the ‘Dolce Vita’ celebrations taking pace in Beverly Hills that week.”

Sponsors of the event include: Colnago, Alitalia, FAS, Campagnolo, Fulcrum, Gaerne, Speedplay, Cuore Italiano, Villa Sandi, the Italian Trade Commission, GU Energy, Il Borro and Castiglion del Bosco wineries (owned by the Ferragamo family), Prologo, Maxxis, Italy Bike Hotel and Il Palagetto winery.

Cycling fashionistos ready for the ride.

For more information, visit www.granfondousa.com.

Page 12 | June 19, 2011

BEVERLY HILLS

BEVERLY HILLS

June 19, 2011 | Page 13

‘Gioiello’ Week To Celebrate Exquisite Italian Jewelry In Beverly Hills : Through June 26 he exquisite craftsmanship and design of Italian jewelry will be on display during “Gioiello” Week, through June 26 in Beverly Hills. The weeklong festivities will include special events and promotions at Buccellati, Bvlgari, Damiani, Gearys Beverly Hills and Vhernier on Rodeo Drive.

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“What better way to celebrate the magnificent detail and beauty of the ‘Made in Italy’ jewelers, than with the renowned jewelry boutiques on Rodeo Drive and in Beverly Hills,” said Dr. Carlo Angelo Bocchi, trade commissioner, Italian Trade Commission, Los Angeles.

“Rodeo Drive is the perfect stage to highlight the incredible quality and impeccable design of these Italian craftsmen.”

• To celebrate “Gioiello” Week in Beverly Hills, Buccellati will be serving Italian red and white wines to guests all week and the boutique will feature a colorful window display of decorative Italian flags.

• While shopping at Bvlgari, guests will have the opportunity to enter an on-going raffle throughout the week and can enjoy Italian beverages such as prosecco and white wine, alongside delicate Italian pastries.

• Prosecco will also be poured at Damiani where the jeweler will feature the Damiani Limited Edition Belle Epoque Timepiece celebrating the 150th Anniversary of

the Unification of Italy. The boutique will also display an exclusive jewelry collection designed by Damiani for Ferrari, Maserati and Ducati created from silver, gold and diamonds.

• Gearys Beverly Hills will introduce new Italian jewelry designers throughout the week and will feature a spectacular display for guests of a classic Italian car balancing on four porcelain espresso cups designed

by Richard Ginori. Italian jewelers participating in the Gearys events include Buccellati, Antonini, Versace, Mariani, Zydo, Issimo, Marina e Susanna, Nanis Italian Jewels and Marilú Fernandez of Palermo, Italy. In addition to the other exciting events taking place instore, Gearys will offer guests cappuccino and Italian desserts as they shop.

Throughout “Gioiello” Week, Vhernier will enter the name of every purchasing client into a drawing for a chance to receive a $150 gift certificate from Il Pastaio, E Baldi, The Beverly Hills Cheese Store, La Scala or Porta Villa. Then on June 25, Vhernier will host an instore event to announce the winners.

In addition to the “Gioiello” week events in Beverly Hills, Ben Bridge Jewelers, a longstanding Italian jewelry partner, will also be joining in the celebration at their store in the Santa Monica Place.

BEVERLY HILLS

Page 14 | June 19, 2011

La Gondola

Oliverio

Piccolo Paradiso

PRIMI PIATTI

PRIMI PIATTI

PRIMI PIATTI

Soup of the Day or Minestrone Soup fresh vegetables in a tomato soup base, gluten free or Caesar Salad romaine lettuce with our homemade dressing, sundried tomato & herb croutons

Polipo alla Griglia grilled octopus, lentils, roasted tomato or Tortino di Cavolfiore cauliflower souffle, parmigiano fondue

Pappa al Pomodoro bread and tomato soup or Bresaola con Rucola dry cured beef served with hearts of palm, arugula and shaved parmesan cheese

SECONDI PIATTI Lamb Shank Ossu Bucco slow braised lamb shank in a vegetable tomato ragu served over garlic mashed potato or Salmon Pomodoro fillet of salmon baked and topped with a fresh tomato basil sauce over rice and served with vegetables of the day DOLCE Baked Chocolate Molton famous baked chocolate cake with melted chocolate ganache in center, served with whipped cream & vanilla ice cream or Sorbet Trio mango, passion fruit & raspberry PRICE $40

SECONDI PIATTI SECONDI PIATTI Risotto Milanese saffron, risotto, braised veal or Capellaci di Ricotta fresh tomato, romanesco broccoli DOLCE Budino di Polenta lemon polenta pudding cake with lemon sabayon or Tiramisu con Spuma di Cappucino lady fingers, mascarpone cream, espresso,cocoa PRICE $55

Pappardelle al Cinghiale homemade wide green fettuccini pasta served with wild boar ragu or Risotto Brera carnaroli rice on red wine, sausages and beans DOLCE Torta di Ricotta Italian ricotta cheese cake or Semifreddo al Croccantino hazelnut crunch semifreddo with chocolate sauce PRICE $31.95

BEVERAGE SUGGESTIONS Cent’anni, Ripasso Valpolicella or Vedricchio, Bucci, Marche

BEVERAGE SUGGESTIONS Chianti or Pinot Grigio

Scarpetta PRIMI PIATTI

Via Alloro

Trattoria Amici

PRIMI PIATTI

PRIMI PIATTI

Zuppa Minestrone minestrone soup or Insalata Mare mixed seafood salad with clams, mussels, shrimps, calamari with roasted bell pepper, garlic and olive oil

Caprese Clasica con Prosciutto di Parma sliced mozzarella and tomatoes with parma prosciutto or Carciofi e Cuori di Palma al Parmigiano fresh baby artichokes & hearts of palm salad with shaved parmesan and walnuts

SECONDI PIATTI

SECONDI PIATTI

Melanzane con Ditallini alla Charleston oven baked whole eggplant stuffed with ringshaped pasta, eggplant ragu and baked ricotta or Salmone grilled new salmon filet with sauteed spinach, sundried tomatoes and black olive vinaigrette

Gnocchi con Ragu di Carne Bolognese potato dumplings “gnocchi” with bolognese meat sauce or Scaloppine di Vitello alla Cacciatora veal cutlets sautéed with wild mushrooms, roasted onions, black olives and tomato sauce

DOLCE

DOLCE

Lemon Tart lemon art served with raspberry sauce or Panna Cotta baked custard with tahitian vanilla beans, served with fresh mixed berries

Tiramisu the classic Italian dessert mascarpone cheese, lady fingers and espresso or Assorted Sorbets the way that sorbets should be made, no cream, just fruit

PRICE $32

PRICE $35

Creamy Polenta Fricassee of truffled mushroom or Stracciatella heirloom tomatoes, pickled eggplant & arugula or Braised Short Ribs of Beef vegetable & farro risotto SECONDI PIATTI Spaghetti tomato & basil or Grilled Branzino charred vegetables & spring garlic vinaigrette or Organic Roasted Chicken herbed spatzle & spring vegetables DOLCE Coconut Panna Cotta guava soup & caramelized pineapple or Vanilla Caramel Budino gianduja caramel roll PRICE $60 BEVERAGE SUGGESTIONS $16 San Remo carpano antica, elderflower liquer, Campari, citrus, drop of Maker’s Mark $25 Wine Pairing

BEVERLY HILLS

June 19, 2011 | Page 15

Italian Restaurants Add ‘Gusto’ To A Week Of Celebrations

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talian Dining Week at Beverly Hills restaurants will be June 1926. To celebrate Italy’s 150th anniversary, nine famed Italian “ristoranti” will offer special prix fixe menus and promotions .

Diners can select from an assortment of Italian dishes during each course: “Primi Piatti,” “Secondi Piatti,” and “Dolce,” for

$28 per person for lunch and ranging from $30 to $60 for dinner.

Several restaurants are offering wine pairings at an additional fee.

Participating restaurants include: • Caffé Roma (lunch and dinner) 350 N. Cañon Dr.; 310-274-7834 • Da Pasquale 9749 S. Santa Monica Blvd; 310-859-3884

• Il Fornaio 301 N. Beverly Dr.; 310-550-8330 • La Gondola 9025 Wilshire Blvd; 310-247-1239 • Oliverio 9400 W. Olympic Blvd; 310-407-7791 • Piccolo Paradiso 150 South Beverly Dr., 310-271-0030 • Scarpetta

225 N. Cañon Dr.; 310-860-7970 • Trattoria Amici 469 N. Doheny Dr.; 310-858-0271 • Via Alloro 301 N. Cañon Dr.; 310-858-6857 For reservations or more information, visit www.lovebeverlyhills.com.

Da Pasquale

Il Fornaio

PRIMI PIATTI

PRIMI PIATTI

PRIMI PIATTI

Zuppa Special special soup of the day or Insalata Rucola e Burrata wild arugula, heirloom tomato, burrata cheese and balsamic dressing

Soup of the day or Frutti di Mare in Umido sauté of clams, mussels, and shrimp in a fresh tomato sauce or Gamberi e Calamari alla Griglia grilled calamari and shrimp on a bed of arugula salad or Insalata di Granchio mixed baby lettuces, asparagus, crab meat, lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil

Burrata alla Pugliese Italian burrata cheese, arugula and tomato or Proscuitto e melone prosciutto wrapped around melon slices

Caffé Roma LUNCH

SECONDI PIATTI Rigatoni Polpette rigatoni with veal meatballs in a light tomato sauce or Tuna Salad seared tuna with romaine, croutons, heirloom tomatoes, green beans and red wine vinaigrette DOLCE

SECONDI PIATTI

Coppa Mascarpone Amaretto mascarpone with amaretto cookies and chocolate or Panna Cotta Alla Vaniglia vanilla custard with chocolate sauce

Zuppa Special special soup of the day or Riccia e Trota frisee with cherry tomatoes, smoked trout or Insalata di Fregola, e Vegetali Italian barli with mixed veggies, parmesan cheese & lemon sauce

Mezze Maniche alla Posillipo Crabmeat and chopped shrimp in a light, spicy tomato sauce or Spaghetti Pescatora clams, mussels, shrimp, fresh tomato sauce, garlic, parsley, and hot pepper or Linguine Vongole clams, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, hot peppers, parsley, and white wine or Petto di Pollo al Limone chicken breast in a lemon and capers sauce served with spinach and potatoes or Fillet of Sole All’Acqua Pazza sautéed in a white wine sauce with chopped tomatoes served with daily vegetables

SECONDI PIATTI

DOLCE

Paccheri Pomodoro e Pecorino paccheri with tomato sauce, basil and pecorino cheese or Tagliata Rucola e Parmigiano New York steak with arugula topped with parmesan cheese or Filetto Di Branzino alla Meditteranea with S.S. filet of sea bass with a tomato, olive and capers sauce served with sauté spinach

Panna Cotta homemade with a mixed berry sauce or Sformatino al Cioccolato flourless chocolate cake with vanilla gelato or Affogato al Caffé Vanilla gelato with a shot of espresso

PRICE:$28 DINNER PRIMI PIATTI

DOLCE Coppa Mascarpone Amaretto mascarpone with amaretto cookies and chocolate or Cream Caramel “Classico” vanilla créme custard topped with a layer of soft caramel or Tortino al Coccolato with Vaniglia ice cream warm chocolate care with soft center served with vanilla ice cream PRICE:$42

PRICE $30 BEVERAGE SUGGESTIONS Ask you server for wine pairing suggestions...

Insolia “Case Ibidini,” Ribolla Gialla, Chardonnay Zagalia, Sangiovese “Polesio”

with Corte Giara Pinot Grigio SECONDI PIATTI Paglia e Fieno alla Positanoo homemade egg and spinach taglioni with shrimp, scallops, tomatoes, arugula with garlic & olive oil or Tortelli di Magro al Pomodoro e Basilico homemade tortelli filled with ricotta & spinach in a tomato and basil sauce or Pollo alla Fiorentino sautéed chicken breast stuffed with spinach, parmesan and mascarpone, topped with mushroom sauce with Valpolicella Giara Ripasso DOLCE Tiramisu lady fingers, rum, zabaglione, mascarpone cheese, espresso, cocoa powder or Bianco Mangiare almond custard with caramel sauce, toasted almonds and fresh berries with Fiore Moscato PRICE $52.99 $39.99 (without wine pairings)

Page 16 | June 19, 2011

BEVERLY HILLS