EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE OF THE 63RD ANNUAL PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS • FALL RED CARPET MUST HAVES
OCTOBER 2011
TRE FORD American Stylist Redefines Styling
exclusive profiles :
Anthoula Katsimatides: How 9/11 Lead Her To A Career As An Actor
YES LIV CAN
Psychic Dynamics Coach maria papapetros
A HIP-HOP RENAISSANCE
she’s the real deal Patrica KARA
LIV AND MONSTA VILLA IGNITE
HW EXCLUSIVE RETROSPECT:
BRAD PITT AND TRUSTING THE UNIVERSE
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RED CARPET STYLE
18
FALL FASHION MUST
HAVES
- OCTOBER 2011 -
22 FEATURES PRIMETIME EMMYS 06 2011 EXCLUSIVE HW LOOK INTO PRESTIGE AND GLAMOUR.
PITT & 12 BRAD TRUSTING THE UNIVERSE 28 YES LIV CAN cover story:
IGNITING A HIP HOP RENAISSANCE
32 ANTHOULA Katimatides 36 MARIA PAPAPETROS ENTERTAINMENT 10 THE SCENE IN LA 14 patricia kara 40 MARGO THUNDER How 9/11 Lead Her To A Career As An Actor
CELEBRITY Psychic Dynamics Coach
WE’VE GOT THIS TOWN COVERED.
she’s the real deal
Brings Back Good Vibes with “R&B 101”
TRE FORD
REDEFING STYLE PHOTOGRAPHER: DALLAS J LOGAN
42 Julius Hammond 44 LA THEATRE BEAT 48 Amy Markham Star 50 rising SPECIAL profile on Erika thompson LIFE & STYLE 17 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK 21 OUIDAD 38 THE BEAUTY OF FLAWLESS SKIN 39 LET’S GO FOR A SPIN NIGHTLIFE: 46 THE LEXINGTON SOCIAL HOUSE Gives back to his community
What’s new on the LA Theatre Circuit.
Driven for Entertainment Success EFFORTS
THE GLAMOURATI GATHER TO CELEBRATE “FASHION” AT THE MANY NYFW AFTER PARTIES.
THE SECRET TO PERFECT CURLS
BEAUTY TIPS FROM QUEENB PARLOR FITNESS PROFILE ON SPINNING
“SEEN AND BE SEEN” AT THE NEWEST HOLLYWOOD celeb haunt
Hollywood Weekly is a monthly publication wholly owned by Jackson Publishing Company. © 2011 All Right Reserved. Reproduction of any content without written permission of the Publisher is expressly prohibited. Letters to the editor may be sent to: Editor@JacksonPublishing.com Hollywood Weekly 1438 North Gower Street, BOX 42 Hollywood, California 90028 . For Advertising Inquiries call: (323) 315-9498.
OCTOBER 2011, VOL. 11 PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Prather Jackson VICE PRESIDENT Bernice Harris
Pamela and ZOi
A Note From
OPERATIONS Erskine D. Mcswain (1991-2000) SENIOR EDITOR Pamela Spyrs
The Senior Editor
MANAGING EDITOR Jenny Werth
Red carpets have been filled with celebrities from coast to coast and Hollywood Weekly Magazine has captured it all once again!
DIR. OF MARKETING Launy Rhem
In this issue we bring you our exclusive coverage from the incredible fashions at New York Fashion Week to who went home with the Primetime Emmy® Awards this year.
LIFE & STYLE EDITOR Niki Shadrow
Our featured cover story is on powerhouses Liv and Monsta Villa who are shaking up the hip-hop scene. Hollywood Weekly caught up with them in New York City to find out the scoop on who’s cranking up the beat.
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anthony Calderon
Let us not forget that this year marked the 10th anniversary of tragic events that took place on that dark September day in 2001. We have an inspirational story on a sister who looks ahead with hope as the National 9/11 Memorial opens the doors to the world.
GUEST CONTRIBUTOR Karen Bystadt Dallas J. Logan
The HW spotlight is on TV hosts, models, actors and even a psychic dynamics coach in this issue and no doubt it’s sure to wow you. We also have things “spinning” in our health & fitness section; the latest beauty tips from QueenB Parlor on going “flawless” and the hottest trends in product must haves.
CONTRIBUTORS Christina Anastasiou Yota Batsaras Anthony Calderon Sid Fish Fran Scott Niki Shadrow Pamela Spyrs Sharon Spyrs Jenny Werth Steve Zall
All this and so much more fill this issue of Hollywood Weekly as we continue to bring you a magazine with No Gossip ~ Strictly Entertainment and a little inspiration too. We hope you enjoy reading our October 2011 issue. It is our wish these articles inspire you to continue to strive for your dreams - within the entertainment industry or beyond. We’d love to hear from you. You can find us on facebook, follow us on twitter or visit our website at www.hollywoodweeklymagazine.com.
ART DIRECTOR Kristal Lindo SITE DIRECTOR/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jenny Lopez PHOTOGRAPHY Karen Bystadt Jenny Lopez PRODUCTION MANAGER Hector Santacruz DISTRIBUTOR NEWSWAYS
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The 63rd PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS ®
The Top Honors Were Simply
“Mad” and “Modern”
BY: Pamela Spyrs
S
ing it Jane! On Sunday, September 18, 2011 Jane Lynch (“Glee”) sang her way onto the stage at the Nokia Theater L.A. LIVE to host the 63rd Annual Primetime Emmy® Awards Ceremony. It was a night of celebrating excellence in national primetime programming, awarding top honors at the annual creative arts and primetime awards ceremonies. 6 - Hollywood WEEKLY
Though the anticipation of who will walk away with the Emmy® is always exciting, the best part of the show is often seeing what the celebrities are wearing as they walk the Red Carpet. This year the carpet was filled with women in everything from flowing red-hot dresses to sleek black gowns while the men looked smashing in tuxedos of all kinds. It was repeat victories for ABC’s “Modern Family” and AMC’s “Mad Men” as they captured the marquee prizes at the 63rd Annual Emmy® Awards. The sitcom about a deliciously dysfunctional family won its second consecutive trophy for outstanding comedy series and four other awards, including honors for onscreen husband and wife Ty Burrell and Julie Bowen. Meanwhile, AMC’s stylish period drama about Madison Avenue advertising executives earned its fourth consecutive Emmy® for outstanding drama series. “Mad Men” made history that night by winning four in a row, it tied an Emmy® record with the iconic series “Hill Street Blues”, which won four consecutive Emmys between 1981’84, and “The West Wing,” which won between 2000-’03. The only other series to win four drama Emmys was L.A. Strangely, however, “Mad Men” has yet to win a single Emmy® for its acting, even though performers Jon Hamm and Elisabeth Moss were considered among the frontrunners this year in their respective categories. Though it was a surprise to many, HBO and its lavish miniseries “Mildred Pierce” didn’t fare as well.
HBO headed into the Emmys with 104 nominations. Though it won 15 trophies earlier in September at the Creative Arts Emmys, it managed to pick up merely four additional statuettes on the night of the primetime awards ceremonies. “Mildred Pierce” came out with two honors -- best actress in a miniseries or movie, which went to Kate Winslet and the best supporting actor trophy was presented to Guy Pearce. Despite all its firepower, the well-appointed miniseries was upstaged by the PBS miniseries “Downton Abbey,” which earned four awards, including outstanding miniseries or movie. The show’s creator, Julian Fellowes, admitted as much as he was thrilled to accept the top prize, “This is really a David and Goliath story,” he said, “It seems perfectly extraordinary that we won.” Fellowes also won for writing and Brian Percival for direction for a TV miniseries, movie or dramatic special. Maggie Smith won for supporting actress for the miniseries. “Downton Abbey” had been facing “Mildred Pierce” in all four categories. Other wins were what many considered, “Justified.” Margo Martindale -generally cast as a kind and tender woman -- picked up her first Emmy®, for supporting actress in a drama series. She embodied the role of a cutthroat matriarch of a backwoods, nothingbut-trouble family on FX’s “Justified,” a part that was universally acclaimed. Martindale, 60, was visibly moved by the win after years as a character actress. “Sometimes things just take time,” she said in a joking tone.
The writing award for a drama series went to Jason Katims for the recently departed sports drama “Friday Night Lights,” which was much loved but never built a big audience during its five-year run. The drama about a high school football coach in Texas also netted Kyle Chandler the trophy for lead actor in a drama series. Melissa McCarthy of “Mike & Molly” was honored as best lead actress in a comedy series with an Emmy® and a glitzy crown. “Holy smokes. Wow, it’s my first and best pageant ever,” said a beaming McCarthy. “I’m from Plainfield, Illinois, and I’m standing here and it’s kind of amazing.” Just moments earlier, she and her fellow nominees jumped up on stage as their names were called, led by Amy Poehler of “Parks and Recreation.” Jim Parsons of “The Big Bang Theory” earned his second trophy in the best actor category. His win means Steve Carell lost his final chance to win an Emmy® for playing clueless manager Michael Scott on “The Office.” In other categories, best lead actress in a drama series went to Julianna Margulies for CBS’ “The Good Wife” and Kyle Chandler won best lead actor in a Drama Series for “Friday Night Lights.” Oscar-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese picked up his first Emmy for directing the pilot episode of HBO’s period gangster series “Boardwalk Empire.” And Barry Pepper won lead actor in a TV miniseries
(opposite page): The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences 63rd Primetime Emmy® Awards at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on September 18, 2011 in Los Angeles, California. [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup] (FROM LEFT - RIGHT): Jane Lynch, Host of the 2011 Academy of Television Arts & Sciences 63rd Primetime Emmy® Awards [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup] Bertram van Munster and Elise Doganieri and the crew of The Amazing Race accept the award for Outstanding Reality-Competition Program. [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup]
OCTOBER 2011 - 7
(LEFT - RIGHT): Kate Winslet accepts the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for “Mildred Piece”. [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup] The cast of “Modern Family”, Primetime Emmy® winners for outstanding comedy series, is interviewed by Entertainment Tonight. [Photo by Michael Yarish/PictureGroup] Melissa McCarthy accepts the award for “Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series”. [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup] Jim Parsons accepts the award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for “The Big Bang Theory”. [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup] (Opposite page left - right): Kyle Chandler accepts the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for “Friday Night Lights”. [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup] Julianna Margulies accepts the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for “The Good Wife”. [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup] Ty Burrell accepts the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for “Modern Family”. [Photo by Michael Becker/PictureGroup]
or movie for his role as Robert F. Kennedy in the Reelz Channel’s “The Kennedys.” The big surprise of the evening was Charlie Sheen walking on stage and not doing anything outrageous. In fact, he wished the best to his old series, “Two and Half Men,” saying “From the bottom of my heart, I wish you nothing but the best for this upcoming season.” He was there to present the Emmy® for lead actor in a comedy series, a category in which he had been nominated before for his former series. The honor went to Jim Parsons for his second consecutive Emmy® as the brilliant geek on CBS’ “The Big Bang Theory.” Other honors went to, CBS’ “Amazing Race” returned to the winner’s circle, picking up the Emmy® for realitycompetition series. Last year, its reign ended when Bravo’s “Top Chef” took the honor. Until then, it had won seven years in a row -- every year since the category was created. Don Roy King from “Saturday Night Live” scored his second straight win for directing of a variety, music or comedy series. Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” is creating an impressive track record. For the ninth year in a row, it won for variety, music or comedy series. “We’re acutely aware of how fortunate we are to win this once,” Stewart said. The show also won for variety, music or comedy series writing. Some say it was a night a surprises and spontaneity. Some say it was predictable. Never the less the night marked yet another awards show which goes down in the history books of primetime entertainment. So until next year, the shows go on!
OCTOBER 2011 - 9
SCENE Brooke Burke & David Charvet The Exclusive Emmy Gifting Lounge at The Nokia Theatre, Sponsored By: HP Wire Image
in LA
BY:NIKI SHADROW
Roshon Fegan, Adam Irigoyen, Davis Cleveland, Zendaya Coleman, Bella Thorne, Caroline Sunshine and Kenton Duty. Disney Fashion Show at D23 Expo Anaheim Convention Center, California Disney Images
John Slattery & Aaron Paul The 63rd Primetime Emmy Awards Sheraton Universal Hotel PictureGroup Images
Susan Nethero At the itimacy boutique Century City Courtesy of intimacy
Christina Hendricks The Exclusive Emmy Gifting Lounge at The Nokia Theatre, Sponsored By: HP Wire image
Pauly Boy Performs in Hollywood , CA Photo by: Teren Oddo Photography
Talia Goldstein & Valerie Brennan Three Day Rule at Fred Segal Event Fred Segal Santa Monica Kevin Friedman of Maize Marketing Photography
Nancy Deville Healthy, Happy, Sexy book signing at Barnes and Nobles 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, Calif. LCO PR
David Fagan & Lynn Rose The Wow Effect & Icon Builder Seminar The Inercontinetal Hotel, Marina del Rey NS Images
Chris Noth & Jenny Leeser BABAKUL & Lova -Tea Co-Pack Launch BABAKUL Flagshipp Boutique Wire Image/ Tiffany Rose
“
I finally had to kick myself in the butt and say, ‘Let’s go, cause here it is. Here is your dream, sitting right in your lap.’ And so I went.”
12 - Hollywood WEEKLY
BRAD PITT AND TRUSTING THE UNIVERSE
ARTICLE & PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN BYSTEDT
Breaking into the acting or the modeling industry can seem like a daunting task at first. Walking into your first auditions may make the most self-confident person feel insecure. The fears arise, and suddenly your goals and dreams can appear unreachable and unrealistic.
Q
uite an overwhelming feeling, yet very normal; in fact, these fears have been experienced by even the biggest celebrities such as Brad Pitt, as quoted from my interview with Brad Pitt from my book THEY DARED TO DREAM available on my website and at the Hollywood ArcLight Store.
his partner, Angelina Jolie, and their six children. Sure, he may have dreamed big, but his celebrity power must far exceed what even he strived for all those years ago when he was just another actor hoping to break into the biz. What makes the JoliePitt team so intriguing is their countless donations to foundations and personal influence in impoverished countries. He is the true definition of a shooting star; the “I got an agent… but then that was half the kind that shines so bright that others are battle. Here I was sitting in those audition able to benefit from his world-influence. rooms with all those people who I’d watched on TV and film my whole life, and I was Karen stresses that negative self-talk will intimidated as hell. I freaked out and couldn’t prevent you from reaching your dreams. do anything for months. Nothing came out The only person standing in the way of you cause I was also intimidated by the casting is you. Fear is a very real emotion, yet there directors. I finally had to kick myself in the is nothing more refreshing, more positive, butt and say, ‘Let’s go, cause here it is. Here is or more rewarding than doing the opposite your dream, sitting right in your lap.’ And so I of feeding the fear - Trusting. It can be a went.” - Brad Pitt process, but you will break through if you believe in yourself, persevere, and trust that The trick is to work through those fears! Here things will work out… and they will! are a few helpful hints: Karen Bystedt has photographed • Casting directors are also praying to find the everyone from Johnny Depp, Djimon right person to fit the role. You just may be it, Hounsou, Sandra Bullock, and Brad Pitt, and discovering you could potentially be very to Andy Warhol. Karen knows the power good for their career as well. They might be her celeb photos hold in her hands. Thoughtfully, she uses the shots to remind looking for you! • When you walk into the audition room, slow us all that everyone starts somewhere. down and take your time, this is your time to Indeed, her photos grace the walls of some of LA’s hottest venues. Most recently her shine! photos were on exclusive display on the “I just know that when you are one with God walls of the famous ArcLight Theatre in then credit’s going to go where credit’s due. Hollywood. Guests of the cinema eagerly The key is to rely on that and not to worry awaited to view her amazing collection about things. DO NOT WORRY. Everyone of the black and white masterpieces. Last worries out here. Worrying is the biggest month she even held a hugely successful waste of time, because things will work out if reception that offered fans a chance to view all her photos in one festive evening. The you have faith.” - Brad Pitt event named after her book, “They Dared So where is Pitt today? Naturally, if you’ve To Dream,” brought out an ecclectic mix ever paid even the slightest bit of attention of guests who also had the opportunity to to any media outlet, you already know the have Karen personally sign her book (the mega-superstar is globe-trotting along with book is still for sale at the cinema). The
event was a hit with a wide assortment of popular vendors including complimentary massages from the acclaimed Burke Williams spa (burkewilliamsspa.com); free samples of olive oils and vinegars from Oliana (OlianaOil.com); gorgeous jewelry designs by Deborah McClain (Deb@ deborahmcclain.com); gorgeous floral arrangements from the florist to the star’s, Sada’s Flowers (sadasflowers.com); and to keep things cool, plenty of complimentary Function Drinks were on hand. The vitamin water created by physicians has a cult-following for its energizing ability (functiondrinks.com). And of course, the evening wouldn’t have been complete without the psychic abilities of Debra Campbell. Debra’s an internationally known Angel Artist and Intuitive Consultant. Visit her blog at DebraCampbellCallingAllAngels. com. To see the tour of Karen’s art and a glimpse of the event go to You Tube and look for “THEY DARED TO DREAM” and “HOLLYWOOD PHOTOGRAPHER” under Densmoretv. From there, sit back and enjoy! Karen has appeared on many TV interviews and speaking engagements, and continues to photograph up-and-coming actors and models, while living in Hollywood with her husband Fredrik and their bulldog, Gunnar. The Book “They Dared to Dream,”features early photographs and inspirational interviews, as an eBook, available on Amazon Kindle, iPad, Nook and all eBook formats. You can also see some of her early shots on her website, www.karenbphotography. com. For purchase information call: 323.360.8562
OCTOBER 2011 - 13
Photo by Michael Chevas
PATRICIA KARA She’s The Real DEAL by: pamela spyrs
14 - Hollywood WEEKLY
DEAL!
of it too. The funny thing is even as it came to an end, we still went out on top, no on ever gets to do that in this business!” Patricia Kara (aka Trisha Kara) has worked as a special correspondent on Extra, Fox Movie Channel and Celebtv. Some of her other appearances include: the TV Guide Patricia Kara, most commonly known for her longtime Channel, hosting the Red Carpet at the Catherine Zetarun on both the Primetime and Daytime versions of NBC’s Jones Benefit for the Motion Picture and Television Fund, E! Deal Or No Deal is one of the most sought after hosts in Entertainment’s Wild On: Kentucky Derby, and the U.S. Surf the industry. She’s hosted numerous events from charities Open. 5 Factor and AbCoaster also utilized Kara’s hosting to health & beauty to the Kentucky Derby… yes, even the skills in their nationally televised advertisements. She was Kentucky Derby! recently selected to be a Beauty Correspondent for the Greek Though some may say “making it” in the entertainment beauty line “Korres.” industry is impossible Kara Theatrically, Kara appeared thinks quite the contrary. Her in the short film Two-Eleven, strength, determination and which, since its release, has perseverance have proven been in several prestigious to be the driving force of her film festivals. She has guest success. With the amount of starred in hit shows such as competition and the level of Days of Our Lives, NBC’s Las skill necessary to separate Vegas, All of Us, Passions, and continually achieve Mad TV, and The Young and success, Kara has spent the the Restless. Commercially, past 23 years rising to the Kara has appeared in challenge. “My sister, Joanna, commercials for companies always encouraged me to like Coors Light, Old Navy, live out my dreams and that Bally’s Fitness, Kohl’s, meant leaving home to go Ericsson Mobile and V8. where there were more Kara’s portfolio includes opportunities,” says Kara, print ads for: AT&T, Suave, “I would not be where I am Born and raised in Chicago, Swiffer, Venus Swimwear, today, doing what I do or be 24-Hr Fitness, Mitsubishi, the person I am if it weren’t Illinois, Kara’s attraction to Lexus, Disney, Reebok, and for her continuous friendship Snickers. Her images have and guidance.” the entertainment industry adorned the covers and Having starred as one of pages of Cosmopolitan, the beautiful spokes models began when she was a teenager. Glamour, Redbook, Shape, on NBC’s Deal Or No Deal, Fitness Magazine, Forbes, Kara has been afforded the Since then, her career has Sports Illustrated, Day Spa, notoriety and popularity Women’s Fitness, Muscle and that comes with being on allowed her to live and Fitness, Fitness RX, Let’s Live, two hit television shows. Stuff, Maxim, and the book Her selection, along with travel all over the world. Sculpting Her Body Perfect. her costars, as one of People “I try to find my motivation Magazine’s “100 Most through everything that I Beautiful People” and her connect with in my life. It could be a person, a saying, a story starring role in Trace Adkins’ hit country music video that I read or see on television. I have always been able to find “Marry for Money” have only helped to increase visibility. inspiration in my life because there are some many wonderful, Kara shared her thoughts about starring on Deal Or No positive people, places and things out there to provide that Deal with us stating, “It was a whirlwind, one day we were inspiration that I need,” shares Kara, “From friends and family auditioning and the next thing we knew we were the #1 to books, movies or even somewhere I am visiting. There are show on television. Some people work their entire lives certain places that give me that energy I need to be creative and never get to experience that type of success in this and to do more in life and make it meaningful.” business, so I am extremely happy and grateful to have been a part of it for its entire run and the daytime version
OCTOBER 2011 - 15
From a charitable perspective, Kara has been involved with Trinity Children’s Foundation, Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Make a Wish Foundation, Elizabeth Glazer Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Salvation Army, American Heart Association, Read Across America, Women for Women International, and Tiger Woods Foundation. “I have always liked the Golden Rule, ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you’. I do not think there are more powerful words to live by with respect to giving back to your community,” said Kara. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Kara’s attraction to the entertainment industry began when she was a teenager. Since then, her career has allowed her to live and travel all over the world. Besides visiting family and her native Greece, Kara uses her time away from work and charity to expand her horizons. The performing arts, outdoor action sports, travel, photography, and exercise are just a few of the additional interests that round out this free-spirited beauty. After receiving numerous inquiries from young women throughout the world on how to get started in the business, Kara recently developed a series of workshops and private consultation seminars for young models, actresses, and young businesswomen called the “Secrets to a Successful You.” By expressing and outlining her wisdom, fortitude, and commitment to the entertainment industry, her hope is that she can help jump-start the next generation of talent for many years to come. Kara also shared her advice to young women: “Work hard, and just when you think you are working hard, work even harder…there is no substitute for it or way around it in the entertainment business. Never give up. Persistence and dedication is key. It’s a lot of hard work, but so worth it. And very important to enjoy the process! You will learn so much along the way!” I’d say Kara sums it up perfectly, wouldn’t you? When asked what’s next on the horizon for Kara, she shared, with a big smile on her face, “My wedding!” Kara is engaged to be married to sports agent Noel LaMontagne. LaMontagne proposed to her during a trip to Italy, in the romantic city of Venice. Set in white gold, the ring is a cushion cut with a trillion on each side. The wedding will take place in Greece, where Kara has family.
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• Valentine’s Day Gifts • Birthday Gifts • Chocolate Gifts • Business Gifts 16 - Hollywood WEEKLY
FASHION WEEK
Parties
Celebrating the denim brand G-Star, the company unveiled Prouve RAW- the line’s collection of reinterpreted furniture pieces with Swiss furniture manufacturer Vitra. Celebrities and New York City’s influentials showed up to view the collection. The party of the week was Alexander Wang’s. Cool “IT”girls and guys showed up to party with their glow sticks and danced until the wee-hours of the morning.
ALEXANDER WANG
JARED LETO CORINNE BAILEY RAE AND CHRISTIAN SIRIANO
OCTOBER 2011 - 17
red carpet style
hollywood
fall must haves
beauty & fashion BY: Christina Anastasiou & JENNY WERTH
fabiola Beracasa in Givenchy
Michael kors
jason wu
trend alert: tux lust
designers continue their love affair with menswear inspired threads
F
all has arrived. Get ready for a glamorous fall/winter because this season, things are shaking up. Designers have drawn inspiration from the opposite sex, commonly known as men. Men know best when it comes to wearing a nice tailored suit or a tuxedo. Men are strong, yet vulnerable. They often remind us of why we can’t live without them. Kristen Dunst stepped out in a Patrick Ervell tux at the CFDA Awards recently. My fashion icon Fabiola Beracasa graced the Met Gala this past May in a Givenchy suit, while everyone wore dresses. It makes a bold statement about men and women-we’re both equally made. You’ll see a lot of fur and color blocking this upcoming season. I’ve conjured up unisex accessories, shoes, and tuxes to give you that masculine edge, all the while keeping your femininity. Make these your own style to get your own runway or red carpet look. Most of all, be yourself. the staple -1. This cream wool gabardine tuxedo jacket with silk satin notched lapel by Jason Wu is godly haute. Pair it up with a black, fuschia, or a red wide pant. Get creative. Retail $580.00 the topper - 2. House of Pallion BowsNow that you have your tux, you need a bow tie. Bow ties remind us of Tom Ford, Kanye West, and Janelle Monea. HOP takes the traditional bow and has interwoven fabrics, creating glorious bows for your special occasions.Dark Disco Bow organza/sequins $35 18 - Hollywood WEEKLY
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7 shoes -Charm the pants off of your tuxedo with the Teya and Huette by Kelsi Dagger. Both styles will spark you up. Mui Mui’s shoes for fall are dazzling. Get a pair before they sell out. 3. Kelsi Dagger “Teya” Retail $129.00 4. Kelsi Dagger “Huette” Retail $149.00 -Available at www.kelsidagger.com 5. -Glitter & Suede Bow Peep Toe Ankle Boots; Mui Mui $890.00 Saks jewelry - 6/7. Noor Fares Jewelry - This line is exquisite. Lebanese designer Noor Fare, finds her inspiration in art and architecture. The ballerina ring was designed for the Touche Du Bois Collection (it means touch wood for luck), and it’s made of “jet,” a fossilized wood formed from the araucaria tree. The inner part of the cuff is made of 18k yellow gold and with the pink sapphire set on top. You’ll wow everyone. These ebony cuffs-also made of jet- add that femininity. One cuff is plated with 24k rose gold. Pricing available upon request www.noorfaresjewelry.com 8. Designed by Los Angeles based designer Adolfo Sanchez, this calf skin leather studded cuff will give you that masculine edge you’re looking for. The musk-rat fur and the fringe to tie it up make it sassy on the wrist. Pricing available upon request www.adolfosanchez.com Arm candy - 9. This 3.1 Philip Lim Nashiki clutch in green has a detachable strap (perfect for the city) it’s a real stunner. $175 Saks. 10 Designed by Elly Clay is this leather and pony clutch. If your inner-animal comes out, you might wear it with your pair of Huettes. Be a tough girl. Retail $230. www.PatriciaField.com 11. The skull and studs on this Alexander McQueen clutch give you high dramabut only if you’re looking for it.www.alexandermcqueen.com. >>> MORE MUST HAVES ON THE NEXT PAGE OCTOBER 2011 - 19
red carpet style
FALL beauty
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17 13 18 beauty -12. We all know about beauty products that are eco
-friendly and non-toxic. I love Zoya Nail Polish, not only are they vegan, which means they are formaldehyde, camphor, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate-free, but they have every color imaginable. They’ve even invented a new color wheel. If you love nails, this line is for you. Availabe at www.zoya.com keep your glow -13/14. Keep your summer tan and dazzle your skin with Spray Di Sole’s Liquid Bronzer and Sun Gelee. Founder Svetlana Feller has created a high quality eco-friendly product to complement her successful spray tanning service in Studio City, home of many A-list stars. The bronzer is smooth and doesn’t smear. Available at www.spraydisole.com fresh scents - 15. In the creation of her debut fragrance, Jennifer Aniston called to mind her earliest and most beloved recollections of scent. Evoking memories of sunny days at the beach and happy summer nights, this captivating composition includes light, blooming floral notes set against a sensual base of musk and woods. Jennifer Aniston, 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum Spray: $55 Sephora. pucker up 16. EOS lip balm is 95% organic, 100% natural, and paraben and petrolatum free. Packed with antioxidant-rich vitamin E, soothing shea butter and jojoba oil, eos keeps your lips moist, soft and sensationally smooth: try the tasty Strawberry Sorbet , $3.49 CVS. pro tool - 17. Andrea Eye Q Eye Make-Up Corrector Sticks 50 count. Finally a way to get rid of makeup mistakes without all the messy drama, $8.99 Walgreens 18. H20+ Face Oasis Hydrating Treatment. aA moisture-intensive gel that hydrates the skin while firming and diminishing the appearance of fine lines. $39, Ulta . for the men in your life- 19. Supercharged for the skin with a jolt of java, the b3 Shave System products contain coffee; coffee oils; caffeine; Vitamins A, C, E and B-complex; and natural emollients to nourish and revitalize the skin. Each step of the proven four-step system builds on the last resulting in the closest shave possible. As always b3 products are paraben-free, sulfate-free, and phthalate-free. The b3 Shave System, $85. baristabathandbody.com
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OUIDAD The Secret To That Perfect
Curl or Sexy Fall Wave
By Jenny Werth
I
t’s that romantic notion a woman has embraced in the movies for decades; dressed in a beautiful evening gown, she floats into the candle-lit room, her hair flowing like a perfect waterfall; hand-inhand with the handsome man. If you’re anything like me, perhaps you’ve wondered how these women manage to get all that hair into the perfect ‘look.’ Being blessed with long, thick and curly-in-some-spots hair, I’ve spent a lifetime ‘in battle’ with the ringlets that seemingly only want to be ringlet-like underneath the otherwise wavy tresses. The weight of my hair keeps much of the curl straightened; but for some reason, they’re as curly as Shirley Temple’s on the bottom layer. So, what’s a non-movie star woman to do? The options are great if you’re patient, not-so-good if you’re adverse to spending forever in the company of an annoying hot iron, trying to straighten the whole mane out, or attempting to create a wavy-looking style using a diffuser and a cocktail of gels and sprays that promise that “wind-swept-sexy” beach hair ‘look.’ Please…. we all know the women with that “I-justgot- out-of-bed-and-my-hair lookslike-a-sultry-kitten” look really spent hours in the salon. So, it’s a year-round dilemma unless you’ve already found out about Ouidad. Situated in Manhattan and on trendy Montana Avenue in LA’s Santa Monica, Ouidad is a hair salon where your curls are everyone’s best friend. Ouidad herself is the salon owner who’s also a renowned hair stylist, global educator, curl maestro and industry icon. Ouidad is ‘The Curl Expert’ and since 1984 she’s made it her business to care-for-the-curl. Known as the “Queen of Curl,” Ouidad is the official connoisseur in maintaining and styling curly hair. She has taught her signature techniques to stylists across the country and developed a huge selection of curl-appropriate products that work from the inside out to keep hair in optimum health. All Ouidad products vary according to your hair type or hair
treatment. And they are all moisturizing, gentle and water soluble- no heavy waxes or damaging ingredients are used. It’s no wonder celebrities such as the curly-haired Minnie Driver rely on Ouidad for the best care for their curls. Many discerning clients swear by the Ouidad experience; many often traveling over four-hours just to get their hair cut and styled. Invariably, I quickly learned why anyone would make the traffic-riddled drive just to get to a salon. From the moment I entered the door my friendly stylist, Morgan Willhite, and I discussed what I was looking for and what was needed to achieve that vision. I really wanted my randomly-placed-crazy-curls kept under control so I could have a wavy-looking mane. Simple! Morgan-the-amazing-stylist began by treating me to Ouidad’s exclusive Carve and Slice cut, followed by the Softening System and ending with a photo-shoot-worthy styling. The website explains the softening treatment to perfection which is essential as it is NOT an unhealthy straightening system. “The Softening System works to soften out-ofcontrol curls and adds shine, making them more maintenance free and healthy looking. Softening is not a straightening system as it does not contain the harsh ingredients that standard straightening does. The Ouidad exclusive softening system uses half the amount of processing ingredients in combination with a deep treatment that is tailored to each client. Results are looser curl patterns that allow for a completely customized curl or wave. The process includes a complete analysis of one’s individual curl pattern, gentle treatment application and Deep Treatment sealant/conditioning. Benefits last up to 3 to 4 months and the treatment can be used as a “spotsoftener” to even out your curl pattern all over.” Indeed, it tamed my tresses and left me with that perfect wave I longed for! You know you look like that movie star with the perfect ‘do’ when a 13-year-old tween waiting for her appointment tells you that “you look fierce.” Ouidad is located at 1230 Montana Avenue in Santa Monica. (310)-393-3542 www.ouidad.com OCTOBER 2011 - 21
Wardrobe: Alex London Accessories: GMK Designs in Australia www.gmk-exclusive.com
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TRE FORD American Stylist Tre Ford Redefines Styling as “The Ford Effect” with his muse Gemmy Quelliz BY: Christina Anastasiou Photographer: Dallas J. Logan
T
re is based in New York City. His work was currently featured in Vogue Italia and Elle Vietnam. Tre works with New York’s top photographers, agencies and publicists. This is my one - on - one with a young man of immaculate vision. His quote, “Build the brand that will influence the masses,” says it all. This is his first editorial for the Hollywood Weekly.
Wardrobe: Red Tulle Dress for the red carpet by designer Malgorzata Dudek Available Upon Request in London; Face Accessory: stylist own
I
ts a warm and humid day in Soho, Tre strolls up towards me. He’s a happy energy and he wears a head wrap. The first thing I notice is his colorful buttoned-down loose fit blouse. I ask what he’s wearing and he proudly says, “Its vintage from my grandmother’s closet.” His responses are endearing. Tre is a celebrity in his own right without even trying. We stroll through Soho and he tells me how often he’s stopped on the street to get photographed. Outlets such as TMZ, have turned the public’s intrigue of celebrities into an obsession. For Tre, the obsession works in his favor. The intrigue behind Tre is not only his talent, but his quiet and humble persona. A native New Yorker, born and bred in Brooklyn, Tre’s motivation is his mother. Everything and anything he does is for his mother. He says, “I want to buy her a house.” Tre doesn’t have assistants, nor does he have an office...not yet. He manages to execute high fashion editorials with interns hungry to work with someone as hungry as he is. He says, “I’ll have all of that soon, right now, I’m building the brand.” Unlike other fashion stylists who don’t have the business sense to maintain their brand, Tre gets it. He’s a hustler at heart and he’s classy. For this issue, Tre envisioned an editorial to show his work for Hollywood. He says, “I would love to work with celebrities.” At times, my own experiences in working with celebrity stylists haven’t been very positive. This business is cut throat, yet Tre brings a spirit of creativity and drive that appeals even to the veterans. This editorial was inspired by his muse, Dominican model Gemmy Quelliz, who is signed by Major in New York, and is on her own rise to the top. Tre says, “Gemmy inspires me. We have worked together on other editorials. She is beautiful, and she’s ethnic, we need to see more of that in fashion.” It brings us to the never ending topic in fashion and entertainment, the topic of diversity. Tre says, “For someone like me to be in Elle or Vogue, it says a lot. I’m one of the few African American stylists that has come to this level.” After this interview, I spent a second day with Tre during Vogue’s Fashion Night Out. I ran into him unexpectedly on Madison Avenue. Tre has built his fan base through social media like Facebook and Twitter. His fans follow his daily quotes, which for many have become their daily dose. Tre says, “I have people messaging me and thanking me for inspiring them.” The connection he creates with people is real. He relates to people on their level and that is what makes many of today’s talent memorable. Tre is giving the masses what they want. We finally sat down for our one-on-one, to see what working in the industry is really like and where he sees himself as a fashion icon.
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CA: How did you get started out in fashion? TF: Well, its kind of an unconventional story, but everything about me is unconventional. I was working at a high end clothing store on Lexington Avenue that housed pieces like Chanel and Prada. I was assisting my clients as usual, when I started working with a woman whom I later came to found out was Janice Dickinson’s sister, Debbie Dickinson. While working, I overheard two women speaking about an upcoming shoot they were working on. At the time, I really wanted to become a fashion stylist and any way I could do it, I was game. So I kindly interrupted and said, “I would love to work with you guys.” I asked the women their names and one of them was a publicist. The other woman introduced herself and said I’m Debbie Dickinson. She started to talk about an upcoming television segment she was doing for ABC and asked if I would like to be apart of it. I said, “Ok!” Kind of loudly-then she told me she needed a make up artist. Being the confident person I am, even if I don’t know where something is going to come from, I still make it seem like I have it in the bag. Once I arrived on set for the segment, I helped her with her looks and the model’s looks who she was presenting a line with. After the shoot, she told me she was working on upcoming shoots and asked if I would like to be apart of it. Of course, I said yes! She told me to be at a major studio in the city a couple of days later, and the first photographer she had me work with was French photographer Antoine Verglas, who has shot celebrities like Halle Berry and Angelina Jolie, the rest is history. CA: I love your hustle, in that it is executed without flaws. When did you know that you wanted to style? TF: This is an interesting dynamic as to why I wanted to style. It started out in the nightlife scene. I would always have looks specially designed for me for each day. I would go out to clubs such as Cain, Marquee, and Room Service. Everything I would go out in, people would want to take my autograph and would say, “I love your look! Are you a stylist? Are you a designer?” I would reply back, “Working on it.” After hearing these things, I came to a decision, “Why not make a career out of something that comes naturally to me, dressing up!”
CA: Simple as that! What a great story. Tell us about your collaboration with Elle and Vogue? TF: Let’s just say being very aggressive with your dreams and aspirations will get you really far and I’m the president of aggressive! While I was working with various photographers, I started to work with an amazing photographer who asked me to style a shoot for an upcoming designer out of San Francisco, I had no idea what her clothing looked like, but since I love fashion, I can style garbage! When I saw her pieces, I simply adored what I was looking at. I styled her collection as if I was styling for a major publication, like I do with every project I’m a part of. A couple of days after the shoot, I received a message from the designer and she asked me if I wanted to style an editorial for ELLE Vietnam. I couldn’t pass this opportunity up. I had total creative freedom and I knew this was my chance, either I bomb or I explode.
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Once the editorial was released, Vogue Italia featured a bulk of the editorial on their website. I could not believe it! That moment, caused my death! CA: And luckily you resurrected! What inspires you and who inspires you? TF: I’m inspired by my mom, sister, and anyone whom has ever given me the courage and freedom to be myself. I’m inspired by emotion, music, heartache, and the positive and negative experiences that I encounter on a daily basis, these things have really shaped the person I have become. CA: We’ve talked about fashion as science. I think Alexander McQueen was the essence of that. How do you think fashion currently impacts politics, history, and science? TF: What you wear is how you address yourself. What was worn is always repeated and what is in the sky is all connected. What I mean by this is, all of our elected officials dress in a matter in which we will take them seriously, clothing does that. An iconic designer like Coco Chanel who had women wearing pant suits, in a time where that was only allowed for men, that is political. Women were not being looked at as a major part of society and were suppose to fit the mold to what was suppose to be seen during that time. Science is like looking at how a television or how an electronic device such as the iPod is made. The colors and shapes are molded around how people use these things to their benefit and what should fit with each kind of look and career. Everything is connected as stated in the beginning. CA: Who are you favorite designers? TF: Comme des Garcons, Rick Owens, Dsquard2, Gucci, and Dior. CA: The power houses! You tend to turn heads often in New York walking down the streets; do you think you’d like to reach the ranks of people like Phillip Bloch or Rachel Zoe? And how do you feel about diversity in the industry? TF: There will be no rank, because I want to redefine what a fashion stylist is. I honestly feel, I live in modern day segregation. Look at it this way, urban fashion has a majority of black people that are a part of it. High fashion has a majority of Caucasians that are a part of it. It really saddens me to still be speaking of diversity; it should only be a distant memory, not a “too close for comfort” reality. But I think with time and the effort of the human species, everyone and everything will be looked at as just art. This is the reason why we’re all doing what we’re doing-because we love the art! EDITORIAL CREDITS: Photographer: Dallas J. Logan Model: Gemmy Quelliz (Major Models NYC) Stylist: Tre Ford Make Up/Hair: Mirna Jose (Frederic Fekkai) Tre Ford Hair: Nadine Jasmin
Black Dress on Gemmy by designer Alex London Tre Ford Wardrobe by designer Alex London Head Piece on Gemmy by designer Alex London
YES LIV
CAN Liv & Monsta Villa Are Resurrecting Hip Hop BY: Christina Anastasiou
28 - Hollywood WEEKLY
I
t is a fact that many of hip hop’s greats have emerged from New York. There has always been an argument over what burrough has the better rappers... Brooklyn or Queens. In the case of Liv and Monsta Villa there is no argument. the duo is a powerhouse. Their sole mission is, “To Bring Music Back to The People.” They’ve teamed up with music producer Tycoon, known for working with the Raphael Saadiq, Redman, KRS-One, Wu tang, and M.O.P. They’re also working with producer Sunny Carson of Starting Five Production, who Liv says, “has given them great beats and has been a mentor to her learning how to work in the studio. She is very grateful to him. Liv, whose background as a former Ford model, gave her the foundation she needed to transition into music, says “I loved modeling, but I knew that music was my first passion, and that’s when I started writing.”
Her Brooklyn studio oversees the New York City skyline. This where she spends countless hours recording and working with other artists under her label Yes Liv Can. One sees her star power. She’s outspoken and kind hearted. About Monsta Villa she says, “Monsta-he’s an OG. He knows everybody. All the veteran rappers know him or have heard about him, but the world hasn’t seen him yet. He’s got the entire Flatbush hood in check. He’s a real gangsta.” Liv continues, “Monsta has a college degree, he’s cleaned up the neighborhood more than our local government and the NYPD, people can judge all day, but he’s done something with himself. He’s been shot a total of 13 times, on five separate occasions, and has lived.” Their first album together is, “Beauty and the Beast.” The first single to be released is, “Bigger, Better, Badder, Bolder.” The track balances that inner city feel with intelligent lyrics. Liv and Monsta, wrote and produced the tracks along with Tycoon, Ricky Bless, and a few other collaborators. The launch of the album is set for the end of the month, and will debut on www.worldstarhiphop.com . They have a following outside of the US, and their following only continues to get stronger through the internet. Liv says, “We have fans in China that are anticipating our album.” Aside from the viral launch, the duo will launch in Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, and a few other cities yet to be announced. Liv wears many hats, from directing her documentary based around her life, to shooting high fashion shoots. She works with professionals from the modeling world that have followed her into her music career. She is a breath of fresh air to hip hop and rap. When asked about her thoughts on women in the scene such as Nicki Minaj or Lil Kim, she says, “I love everyone. I listen to everyone.” I sat down with Liv in her Brooklyn studio to chat about the album, the state of hip hop and rap, and the future of Yes Liv Can. CA: Tell me, what propelled you to get into music and how did you get started? LIV: I started out as a song writer doing tracks for other artists- both male and female, creating melodies, singing the hooks and co-writing lyrics. I wasn’t interested in being an artist myself at first, but that changed as I spent more and more time working in the studio.
CA: How was the transition from model to artist? LIV: I was traveling around a lot because of modeling. Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, Los Angeles to New York - so in all this traveling I also got a chance to work with a large variety of different artist and producers across the country. Soon modeling became secondary to all of the excitement of doing what I really loved - music. Once I moved to New York to model with Ford - the thrill of doing photo shoots was lost. I got hired for a client that tried to lower my rate and I quit that same day. Music was calling my name. I took everything I had earned from the years of campaigns ads, and commercials, and piece by piece I started buying my own studio equipment.
CA: I always have to ask-do you think hip hop and rap demean women? And do you think women care? I ask because the genre is often misunderstood, yet people don’t keep their minds open to what it really is? LIV: Personally, I think society as a whole demeans women. Being in the music industry for only a few years, I see first hand how women are often materialized, minimized, underestimated or given secondary roles- while being the primary factors. As far as hip hop’s relationship to women, I think we have all gone overboard with the amount of disrespectful lyrics and content regarding women, not only as artists, but fans as well. I like many songs enough to listen thru the disrespectful lyrics. I have to be honest and responsible for myself. I don’t take it personal because I am not the woman that they deal with - they don’t even know me! I think most women feel the same as I do and don’t really take anything personal – its entertainment as long as it doesn’t go too far. If it goes to far, I turn the song off - but it’s my choice to listen. I’m as entertained as the next person by the music videos. I think without women they are boring. Hip hop needs women. It’s that woman’s business how she makes her money. I never knock a hustle. CA: That’s what’s up. I don’t take it personal either and some of my feminist friends, do, that’s where we run into disagreements. Monsta Villa says, “he wants to bring the music back to the streets,” Do you think that the music itself has lost some of that street creed?
OCTOBER 2011 - 29
in my songs with my thoughts like, “give it your all,” “no holding back,” and “put your feelings in it,” which is much of what you learn to be an actress. I never got a real chance to get into large roles, but I would love to play a crazy lady one day. Give me a bat and I’ll perform. I do have a lot to get off my chest! (laughs) CA: I so can relate to that! Who are your musical influences? LIV: My musical influences range from Anna Nalick (fav song of hers: Just Breathe) to Soldier Boy, because of his hustle. Lauren Hill of course-all of the old school artists like Al Green, Roberta Flack, even Prince. Michael McDonald’s “On My Own,” and Anita Baker. I’d like to see artists like Fifty Tyson (“google him”), and William Hung come on the scene and succeed, not only because of the entertainment I get out of their videos - but the idea that you really can get away with doing whatever you want. As long as it’s you. Authenticity is inspiration to me. CA: How do you want the world to receive Liv and Monsta Villa?
LIV: Indeed hip hop has lost street credit, with all of the variety of hip hop styles now, you no longer spot any original gangstas. Men are dancing, rocking skinny jeans, and doing so much to be “entertainers” that they no longer, entertain with their music. The dance movement, has ripped the importance of lyrical content out of music, it no longer relates to the streets. I could of sworn we were in a recession, yet everyone is still rapping about driving Lambos? Which they don’t! Believe me. (laughs) The streets are hard; struggles are left and right and survival is key. No one wants to deal with that reality, so we all dance instead. I love to dance, but I’m ready for a little reality as well. CA: I hear you. I think a lot of people need that reality check. How many tracks are on “Beauty and the Beast,” and how many other artists did you collab with? You mentioned you worked with Tycoon, that’s huge, how did that come about? LIV: Beauty and the Beast is YLC’s first project. We have 17 tracks on there, three bonus tracks from both of our next projects. It is a collaboration of songs with Monsta and myself, on every single track together. There are only a few collabos on the first project with other artists because we really wanted to focus around the idea of Monsta and I coming together to give a relatable album to the streets. This album follows Monsta and I, through the hardships and happiness of the real lives of our culture. As for Tycoon, he is an amazing producer. He makes most, almost all of the beats for YLC Studios. Ty plays the drums and most of his instruments; which is why his beats have a different feeling than what we’re hearing lately. With the technology now - there are mostly “studio” beats available, and upon pressing play, I can usually tell what beat machine they’ve used and what year they made the beats by the sounds they use from that machine. Ty and I met in LA thru my sister, he had a studio and I wanted to work. For an entire month, I stayed in his studio night and day, until I heard as many of his beats as I could. I knew he had something, so I made sure to stick with him over the years. Fast forward, now we’re working alongside each other on this first album out and he produces the beats. I am the engineer, as well as one of the artists. CA: Do you ever think you want to get into film as an actress? LIV: I spent many years in acting roles and classes. I love expression. Acting has helped me to better express myself 30 - Hollywood WEEKLY
LIV: I want the world to see Liv and Monsta Villa as revolutionist, hip hop’s revolution. We’ve set out to do something about the fading hip hop scene. We want to give the listeners that are absolutely craving that old hip hop sound back on the airwaves. No matter what anyone has to say,“Hip hop is dead.” People say, “No one wants to hear an old rapper, Monsta shouldn’t be so rough.” I also hear, “A woman can’t run a record label.” We took it all in stride and kept doing the work. Now we will let the people decide how they will receive us. CA: Being a former fashion model, I’m sure it has been easy deciding on your style, but who has been your influence as far as wardrobe? Are there any big names in fashion that you see yourself working with? LIV: I love fashion, but I have to credit my stylist Sandrine and Theo - together they decide what I wear for that moment. I get mostly everything tailored anyway, so my pieces rarely look like the original. My only request is that I always wear Christian Louboutins as shoes. I just love that sexy 6 inch heel. Overall, I would love to have my own fashion line one day and be wearing my own name on the labels. CA: Where are your fans and how do you stay connected? LIV: From our website; YesLivcan.com, you can become a member. Right now we are building our fan base. So far we have been able to gain fans from all over the world, including China and Russia. Our site lets members register and we also have members from France. We’re staying connected through all of the avenues of social media. Right now, is the best time to become anything you want with the help of the internet. From our website, you can access all of the other social media pages like Facebook, Twitter, and our Youtube page. CA: I’m glad you understand that. I do appreciate that you have a real interaction with your fans. What are your future plans after “Beauty and the Beast” is released? LIV: YLC’s future plans are to put out two additional albums after the release of “Beauty and the Beast.” Monsta Villa is going to put out “Street Sacrifice” and my own project is,” LIVolution.” Depending on the success of the albums, we’ll put out “Beauty and the Beast II, “ where Monsta and I reunite. We have songs for days, so there is a lot to work with, so stay tuned. The release of their singles, are set for September 24th. The entire album will be released at the end of the year. You can tune into www.worldstarhiphop.com or www.yeslivcan. com to download and purchase.
NATIONAL SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM IN NEW YORK CITY
PLAN YOUR VISIT Reserve your visitor pass for a specific date and time online at 911memorial.org.
Text HOPE to 80088 to support the 9/11 Memorial with $10 donation.
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A Sister Looks Ahead With Hope Anthoula Katsimatides:
How 9/11 Lead Her To A Career As An Actor
I
“
was in bed on the morning of September 11, 2001 sleeping in as I was at a work event until late the night before with Governor Pataki. I woke up to a call from a cousin in Greece who was calling to see if I was ok and urging me to turn on my TV. I was completely confused and in shock but still did not make any connection that this could involve my brother. Not until my other brother called and said to meet at my parents house because John worked in the World Trade Center. I rushed over and remember being in awe of the beauty of the day. It was a perfect day and I felt 100% confident that John was fine. He was a survivor. I believed in my heart he would make his way home. I later remember being devastated and falling to my knees when the buildings at the WTC fell and I remember crying for the people, my city, my country. When the next morning came, I remember telling a good friend of mine, that I had to come to terms with the truth. I couldn’t. We carried on for the entire month searching for John and having hope that he would return to us. We memorialized him in late October when we reached a point of realization that my brother was not coming home. It was unbearable.” ~Anthoula Katsimatides (Philanthropist, Actress…A Sister With Hope) Anthoula Katimatides was one of thousands who lost a loved one as a result of the tragic events that took place on September 11, 2001. For Anthoula it was her brother, John A. Katsimatides who was one of the 658
32 - Hollywood WEEKLY
by: pamela spyrs
employees who worked for Cantor Fitzgerald at the World Trade Center Tower 1 on the 104th floor. “For me Sept 11th 2001 was the longest day of my life. It symbolizes darkness and tragedy of epic proportions. But it also proved to be a symbol of light and compassion and unity,” said Anthoula, “The enormous outpour of love and support I received from family, friends and complete strangers within the US and abroad was staggering and inspiring. I am forever grateful to have witnessed humanity in the fullest sense.” During 9/11, Anthoula worked as a community affairs assistant for the Governor of the State of New York, George Pataki. After that heart-wrenching day in September of 2001 she took on the responsibility of communicating with 9/11 family members to help navigate them through that time of chaos on behalf of Governor Pataki. He soon appointed her to Director of Family Relations at the Lower Manhattan Development Corp, which is an agency that was created to help rebuild the WTC area. Anthoula dealt with family members and key decision makers on a daily basis. “This was the hardest job I have ever had,” shared Anthoula, “I did it for 3 years before deciding I needed to leave the agency to maintain my sanity and find peace. But, I wanted to make sure I could somehow still be involved with the building of the Memorial dedicated to John and all the others.” It was at that time Anthoula was appointed (1 of 9 family members) to the nonprofit foundation created for the sole purpose of creating the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Anthoula is currently a member of the Board of Directors for the 9/11 Memorial along with Robert De Niro, Billy Crystal, John Stewart and numerous others. (www.911memorial.org)
Photo: Alexandros Lambrovassilis
OCTOBER 2011 - 33
(left to right) 1. Anthoula embraced by President Obama with First Lady Michelle Obama looking on at the National 9/11 Memorial service held on September 11, 2011 in New York City. 2. President Barack Obama and Anthoula. Photos: Courtesy of A. Katsimatides 4. Anne Archer, Emmanuelle Chirqui,
This year marks the 10th anniversary of September, 11, 2001. “In memory of my brother John, I sit on the board of directors for the National September 11th Memorial and Museum. I am proud to announce that America’s Memorial officially opened to the public on September 12th. I encourage all to visit this spectacular site to pay tribute to my brother’s vibrant soul and the thousands of lives unjustly lost,” Anthoula shared, “It is my hope that the 10 years of subtle thought and hard work that has gone into the creation of this inspiring tribute will touch the hearts and souls of all as it does mine.” “These past 10 years, while there has been no memorial yet to visit on the anniversaries, I have found great comfort through the simple, reverent reading of the names on the site of the attacks. I am surrounded by people who are connected to these names and like me they know that each name represents a life of someone who was loved and who was loved by us as family members. I am also reassured to know that my brother and the nearly 3,000 others are being remembered as people - not as numbers, facts or statistics,” adds Anthoula. Anthoula stood in awe on September 34 - Hollywood WEEKLY
10, 2011 as thousands gathered to pay their respects to the nearly 3,000 individuals who lost their lives on that September morning over 10 years ago. Having been the first to be greeted at the memorial site by President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, Former President George W. Bush and Former First Lady Laura Bush, Anthoula embraced each of them with honor and respect for her brother, John, as well as for all the victims of 9/11. With tears in her eyes Anthoula said, “My strength and inspiration stems from my brother John himself. I owe it to John to live each day fully and in bright color! Approximately one year before 9/11, my younger brother Michael died. He was only 26. I was 27. In the Greek culture, it is customary to wear black clothing when a death occurs. I did so for a full year. My brother John was furious. He insisted that I wear bright colors and be happy. He shouldered my whole family through this tragedy and helped us heal with his humor and zest for life. And now I choose to live the way I clearly know he would have wanted.” Having lost two of her three brothers Anthoula decided to launch a charity in her brothers honor. Hence, the
Johnny and Mikey Katsimatides Foundation for Life was founded in January of 2002. The Foundation seeks to promote a diverse set of charitable endeavors, including the arts, music education, cancer research, aid for underprivileged youth, suicide prevention and the rights of crime victims by donating funds raised through a variety of community events to charities that embody the spirit, character and lives of John and Mike. The Foundation believes its donations will enable these charitable organizations to promote the wellbeing of the community while perpetuating John and Mike’s legacy and honoring the lives of these two special individuals. For more information go to: www. JaMfoundation.org Finding a sense of freedom when performing, Anthoula set out to pursue a career in acting a couple years following the tragedy of 9/11. “After dedicating three years to working on the redevelopment of lower Manhattan and living on an emotional roller coaster, I asked to be laid off because I was not happy. It was a pretty big decision to give up a steady paycheck and a structured life. But I really believed, then and now, that life is truly short and precious,” Anthoula
said in an emotional tone, “We should do what we love and love what we do every day because one never knows when it’s all going to end. John lived like that. Work hard - play hard. Lucky for me, acting feels like playing.” As a fluke, Anthoula acted in a community theatre production and was hooked! After that, she had an insatiable hunger to learn more about the craft and began to study intensely and to learn as much about the brand new world unfolding before her. What an adventure! Anthoula also shared that although she admires other actors who have been solely acting since they were children, she feels fortunate to have had diverse life experiences to draw upon. Anthoula was recently cast to play a character that was “attractive, vivacious, edgy, bursting with the desire to grab life!” From what I can clearly see that describes Anthoula to a T! With an infectious passion for life and always on the go she fits the role of a real life actor perfectly. She is clearly an artist at heart and though it took her time (three careers to be specific)
to get to where she stands today, she said this is where she wants to be. “I feel that I am a born performer. Being an actor affords me the freedom to explore all the different sides of me,” said Anthoula, “It’s an opportunity to get to know myself better, which is vital. Of course, the frequent rejection can be fierce and hard on the soul; but I can handle it!” As member of The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), Anthoula has been seen on television, the big screen and on stage multiple times however, her most powerful role was playing the part of “Esther” in Ang Lee’s Taking Woodstock. (www. anthoula.com) Speaking to her love of acting Anthoula said, “I am extremely proud to be a ‘working’ actor pursuing my dream. What people may not realize is that when an actor is on set or on stage, they are ‘playing’. The real ‘work’ comes before -- when one is hustling and auditioning and networking in order to book that job.”
Though Anthoula loves to act with a passion she is also a talented dancer (rumored to be an expert in Greek dancing). She also continues to maintain herself as a producer, voiceover actor and does commercial work when her schedule permits. Anthoula even has her own radio show – Color Your Life – on Cosmos Radio, which airs every other Thursday night on 91.5FM at 7pm in New York City. What’s next for this woman of incredible strength and hope? When asked Anthoula said in a lively voice, “This is my time! 2012 is going to bring it! I feel it.” Anthoula is focusing her efforts on landing a recurring role in a television show and a lead role in a feature film. She is also working on her one-woman show, which she hopes to complete and produce in 2012. Filled with enthusiasm, Anthoula continues to look ahead with hope and is confident that her future is bright!
(left to right) 1. Robert De Niro, Former Governer George Pataki and Anthoula © Photo: Ronald L. Glassman 2. Anthoula reads her brothers name at the 9/11 10th anniversary commemoration services. Photo: Courtesy of A. Katsimatides 3: John A Katsimatides’ name on the National 9/11 Memorial. Photo: Courtesy of A. Katsimatidesilyn Bergman, Bonnie Abaunza.
OCTOBER 2011 - 35
THE POWER WITHIN MARIA PAPAPETROS A Look Into The Life Of A Psychic Dynamics Coach
By Pamela Spyrs
M
aria Papapetros is an international psychic who is very well known for the accurate and intricate details that she gives while foretelling and seeking an answer for her clients. While she is based in New York City, she travels worldwide conducting psychic dynamics workshops and meeting with clients.. She helps those who are in need of some sort of fulfillment in their lives. She picks up people’s vibrations in detail and sheds light on what could pose as possi ble blockages to achieving what is theirs, finding what is lost or receiving what awaits.
spirit of dignity and creativity, both in the individual and in society. “The desire to share my knowledge with the people of the world is what drives me most. It doesn’t matter what country you are from or your race we all have a soul,” shared Papapetros, “Once you indentify your inner being and relate to your psyche you realize you are psychic. We are all psychic and we create our future.” Word of mouth rapidly transformed an outstanding reputation into a career for Papapetros. It also led to her participation in a landmark study at UCLA’s Department of Psychology conducted by Dr. Jan Berlin in 1980. One of the first
“Once you indentify your inner being and relate to your psyche you realize you are psychic. We are all psychic and we create our future.” As a child, born in Crete, Greece Papapetros, though not truly aware of the power within her, began utilizing her ability at a very young age and later looked into the power of her gift further, creating it to be more than merely a simple career. Papapetros felt a need to advance her gift in the area of parapsychology and she did just that. It was not until 1970, that her remarkable gift was discovered while she was receiving a psychic reading. Acknowledging the remarkable nature of her latent talents, Papapetros began enhancing her insight through intensive training. She soon became a practical expert in the dynamics of parapsychology and psychic awareness. Through private consultations with those in need of advice and assistance within their personal life, Papapetros has assisted many in their personal growth by helping them build an awareness of and a belief in their ability to create a fulfilling reality. By removing the cloak of exclusivity from the psychic realm, Papapetros is determined to help elevate the 36 - Hollywood WEEKLY
controlled investigations of parapsychology, this study revealed evidence which set Papapetros apart in the psychic field. Papapetros has gained popularity within the entertainment industry and done so with extreme accuracy. With over 40 years experience she has built an extensive rolodex and consulted some of the most prestigious producers, directors and actors in the industry and beyond. Before Papapetros became a well known celebrity psychic and made numerous TV appearances she took the initiative to learn more about herself by going deep within her inner being and tuning into her own psyche to better assist the people who seek her out for help. Distinguished clients hold Papapetros’ renowned work in high regard worldwide. Her sense of integrity and abiding reverence for the dignity of each individual she meets places her in a class of her own.
“Be part of the solution rather than part of the problem” is what Papapetros says she believes wholeheartedly. She also stated she works with her clients to be grounded and real through each step of their life experiences. In addition to Papapetros’ consulting work she has written numerous books and also conducts intuitive workshops. She advises that it’s very important for everyone to develop their intuition and do so in a way that may aide them in their time of need. Papapetros has created programs that display the psychic ability that every human has inherent within them. And she teaches her clients that with a little focus and practice, a sixth sense is relevant and possible. “Using your intuition makes you psychic. It’s a form of vibration, like radio tuning. I pick up people’s vibrations in detail. Predictions are the driving force of my psychic readings,” says Papapetros.
(L-R) Cindy Petropoulos, Eva Longoria, Maria Papapetros, Marcia Cross, Felicity Huffman
Many people want to know “the” answer: Am I going to get the role I auditioned for? Will I win the lotto? Am I going to ever meet my soul mate? These questions amongst others lead many to seek out a psychic to “tell them their future”. But how does one know they are getting the real answer. Could it actually be what’s ahead in their path in life? Find out for yourself by reaching out to Papapetros for a reading or attend one of her upcoming psychic dynamics workshops. Papapetros’ future work includes a book, which she will be writing in collaboration with Dr. Jane Greer (Author of What About Me? and host of Internet radio show, Doctor On Call).
*Discount does not apply to gift cards or certificates, same-day delivery, shipping and handling, taxes, third-party hosted products (e.g. wine), or Bose® products. Discount will appear upon checkout and cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Offer expires 9/30/2011.
For details and updates on Maria Papapetros’ appearances and workshops visit her website at www.mpapapetros.com.
(L-R) Maria Papapetros and Vanessa Williams
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®
DISCOVERING THE
BEAUTY OF FLAWLESS SKIN Beauty Tips From QueenB Parlor By Yota Batsaras
T
he International Congress of Esthetics and Spa 2011 took place in Long Beach, California on September 11th & 12th. With groundbreaking new features, hands-on workshops and an extra emphasis in the alternative, green and holistic elements of the wellness market, there was much to learn. For the incisive spa professional, looking to bring enhanced technique and innovative products to their clients, this show is definitely one to attend every year. As owner of QueenB Parlor in Cypress, CA I believe in developing a method for all my clients to achieve what was the general theme at the show: Flawless Skin. Going flawless is a matter of discovering your own personal skin needs while balancing internal and external elements. The number of professional cosmetic lines stressing the importance of skin radiance is at its peak as most have added their own skin care lines to their existing line up. Highlighting on external technique, one can achieve a flawless complexion with these 5 simple steps: 1. PREP (Prep your skin for a clean and youthful glow): • Cleanse: Cleanse your skin adding a mild scrub. Mild exfoliates are gentle enough for daily use while they slough off impurities and dead skin. • Protect: Apply sunscreen – yes even if you are indoors! 2. PRIME: Primers contain vitamins and antioxidants that nourish your skin while keeping your skincare in and providing a barrier of protection from environmental pollutants. Apply lightly and evenly over face. Your foundation will glide on and last much longer throughout the day. 3. . FOUNDATION/TINTED MOISTURIZER: Whether it’s neutralizing ruddiness, hyper pigmentation, scar or blemish discoloration, begin with a pea sized amount of your foundation or tinted moisturizer on your fingertips or the back of your hand. (Applying product directly on a sponge, most times, wastes a lot of product and results in a heavier appli38 - Hollywood WEEKLY
cation on your starting point.) There is no need to apply all over. Dot on affected areas and blend evenly with a sponge, fingertips or foundation brush. The key here is not to rub into the skin, but rather blend gently so it lies atop the skin in order to provide the amount of coverage you seek. 4. CONCEAL (optional): Conceal the areas that the foundation did not. If you don’t need it, skip it! 5. SET (Set your make-up with Loose Translucent Powder): Setting increases the longevity of your base product(s) throughout the day while creating the perfect base for your continued color application. A favorite method is to press loose powder into a sponge tapping off the excess. Then with even rolling pressure, press the powder into the skin leaving it matt and set. By doing the above you have enhanced your natural beauty making you FLAWLESS! Now, it’s just a matter of creativity to frame the rest. Remember, each and every face is unique and so is your makeup application. These general tips are great starting points until you have perfected your own technique with your desired goal in mind. A beautiful complexion and beautiful YOU awaits! Have fun and enjoy. About Yota Batsaras (aka: QueenB): Yota is a licensed Cosmetologist/Make-Up Artist and owner of QueenB Parlor in Cypress, CA, with a degree in Marketing & Business Communications. Her passion to beautify oneself speaks from over 13 years of combined local and international experience. Her reputation as a “go-to” expert has fashion designers, brides & business professionals knocking at her door. She has also collaborated with global organizations and television networks worldwide. As a proud mother of two, Yota understands and appreciates that ‘feeling good’ equals ‘looking good’. Whether you have two hours or two minutes it’s a must! (www.QueenBParlor.com)
LET’S GO FOR A SPIN W
By Sharon Spyrs
ho’s ready to go for a spin? Ok then let’s take to the bike and spin away! Nearly 1,000,000 people ride a spin bike in what’s commonly known as a “Spinning” class every day. Whether you take classes at the gym or ride at home to a DVD, you can be considered a spinner and are part of a huge community of fitness enthusiasts from around the globe.
below 60 RPM cadence and failing to make ‘perfect circles’ increases the risk of knee and hip injury. A road cyclist will normally have a natural pedal cadence of about 85 RPM and will control changes in terrain by changing gear to maintain this rate. The goal of a Spinning program is not to exceed this natural rate by more than 25 RPM higher (110 RPM) or lower (60 RPM).
There are five core movements in a Spinning program:
There are five further advanced movements based on those listed above:
1. Seated Flat, with hands at the center part of the handlebars. This is hand position one. This position should be used only when seated, for flat road simulations and during the warmup and cool down. Cadence between 80 and 110 RPM. 2. Standing Flat (also known as running), with hands wide on the back 12-14” part of the handlebars that crosses the rider’s body. This is hand position two. Proper form for standing while running requires the body to be more upright and the back of the legs touching or enveloping the point of the saddle, with the center of gravity directly over the crank. The pressure of body weight should never rest excessively on the handlebars. Cadence is between 80 and 110 RPM 3. Jumps, (also known as Lifts), a combination of seated and standing with riders hands at position two for durations of between two and eight seconds. Cadence between 80 and 110 RPM. 4. Seated Climb with hands at position two, increased resistance and lower cadence of 60-80 RPM. 5. Standing Climb with hands wide and forward so the thumb tips are touching the far end of the handlebars (hand position three) and the rider is canted slightly forward so that maximum force can be exerted onto the pedals with heavy resistance and a cadence of 60-80 RPM. These five movements each work a different part of the body and focus on different leg muscle groups. The rider should always maintain control of the flywheel by having resistance applied and remaining below a cadence of 110 RPM. Not all spin bikes have a freewheel or ‘Smart Release’ and it is possible that the flywheel will ‘run away’ with the rider with the potential for causing injury. The rider should be able to maintain perfectly even pedal rotations at high resistance. This becomes difficult
Running With Resistance. Jumps on a Hill. Seated Flat Sprint. Seated Hill Sprint. Standing Hill Sprint. Most indoor cycling classes are coached with music. Riders may synchronize their pedaling to be in time with the rhythm of the music, thus providing an external stimulus to encourage a certain tempo. Often, the music chosen by the instructor is dance music or rock music set to a dance beat. This tends to help motivate participants to work harder than they might otherwise. The instructor also may choose specific songs for sprints, climbs, and jumps. While the music provides a tempo cue, the cadence does not need to be a multiple of the beat in order for the rider to feel in rhythm; the music therefore helps a rider maintain any constant cadence, not just a cadence that matches the beat. It may depend on the level of exertion whether or not someone changes position or the instructor can tell the class to change. Many wonder why a Spinning program has become so popular. If you are looking to burn calories, nothing compares to a Spinning workout. Think about this: a typical Spinning class will get you burning as much as 600 to 1,000 calories in less than an hour. Now that’s time well spent when it comes to a workout. It doesn’t take any special skills or ability to ride a Spinning bike, just a desire to change. Millions of people have taken control of their life through the power of a spin bike program – You can too – So let’s go for a spin!
OCTOBER 2011 - 39
School Is In: Margo Thunder Brings Back Good Vibes with “R&B 101” BY: FRAN SCOTT
Lightning Strikes Again! Margo Thunder comes roaring back with electric performances from her debut solo album “R&B 101.”
S
inger, songwriter Margo Thunder is holding summer school with sizzling performances from her new solo album “R&B 101.” Last caught by loyal audiences burning up the stages of LA’s Conga Room and private concerts for LA’s KJLH, Thunder has been winning since the age of nine. Hailing from a family of nine siblings like the Jacksons, and performing since a similarly young age, Thunder was known around her native Boston as “Little Aretha” for her vocal delivery with the “soul of a woman,” the title of one of her early hit records. A young Thunder first graced the stages of the Apollo by winning multiple talent competitions after her mother took note of her unique vocal delivery. Young Margo’s first night on the Apollo stage was shared by none other than her idol, the “Queen of Soul” herself, headliner Aretha
40 - Hollywood WEEKLY
Franklin who gave her cherished words of encouragement after her win. Thunder would also perform her hits on the stages of American Bandstand, Solid Gold, and Soul Train with girl group 9.9, a group she was instrumental in forming with friends from Boston’s first music school. She had early help from Richard “Dimples” Fields-also the manager of Natalie Cole. Among the labels the in-demand singer recorded for RCA and Capitol Records before going indie with her latest album, MEI (now available on iTunes) I. As the numbers on her social networking fan sites will attest, the album has been long anticipated by her loyal followers.
Margo’s Got A Story For You. Thunder’s mature vocals were heard of by producers and requested for the theme
song for the movie “The Happy Hooker,” which she wasn’t allowed to view as she was too young. Yes, Margo’s got stories that can keep you awake for days. Not one to name drop, one of Thunder’s early backup singers was Luther Vandross. Plus, her many collaborators going back to her time at Boston’s Berklee College of Music include Kevin Eubanks who played guitar in her band. Early on, Thunder was recruited to sing for a road show with heavyweight champ Joe Frazier whose Las Vegas style show was mapped out by Paul Anka. Thunder went on to sing on the soundtrack of Whoopi Goldberg’s “Sister Act” in the climactic “If My Sister Is in Trouble.” She is featured in the video with the movie’s leads in a high energy performance with girl group “Lady of Soul.” Thunder’s rendition
of “Lady Marmalade” can also be heard in another Whoopi Goldberg project “Eddie” in a pivotal scene. Her vocals can also be heard on “Eddie & The Cruisers II.” Thunder, through her management is currently reviewing offers for more soundtrack placements.
Desire To Help Thunder’s longevity in the industry, and personality would make her a must see match for mentoring talent on one of the many singing competition shows. She has provided coaching and assistance for singers at home in her studio for many years on the differences giving pointers on the differences between live performances, and vocal delivery in studio. She is interested in opportunities to continue to outreach to underserved youth, feeling they could relate to her journey out of the tough Roxbury. Thunder has also lent her vocal talents for benefit concerts, performing for Susan Komen Breast Cancer Society, and Diabetes Fund charities. She hopes to continue to promote breast cancer awareness and education, particularly to groups like women of color, sometimes found to often have more aggressive strains of breast cancer. She would also like to contribute her talents to Diabetes related causes to honor her mother who had Diabetes. The song “One of Nine,” featured on Thunder’s album is a tribute to her mom’s tenacity in raising six boys and two girls successfully.
gospel album for group member Wanda Perry. Certainly unique to an industry known for its epic girl group squabbles, the enduring friendship despite the tumultuous business is telling of Margo’s personality. Longtime friendships and an illness which confined the singer to bed, making her “only able to sing” provided the impetus for delivering the new album. The album’s executive producer Ken Wilson, another long time industry friend continued to approach Margo with what
Margo saw from the stage. “I was taught to keep singing no matter what” she says and did just that as an irate woman hit a man over the head with a bottle when she caught him out cheating at a performance. “I got into the business for the love of creating and the joy of seeing people enjoy this gift that was given to me.” “I want to move you to make you think, and laugh.”
The Divine Ms. M Returns Since being christened as Thunder by Capitol Record executives when their first recording session was interrupted by lightning and thunder blowing the lights out in the studio when Margo began to sing, Margo has kept it moving as a force in the challenging entertainment industry. “I’m just so glad I made such an impression after all these years that people tell me they are happy to see Margo’s back.” You may catch the inimitable Margo Thunder performing her lead single “Mistreated,” the Aretha inspired “Make Me Say Ooh,” an updated “Feel the Fire” and maybe request some classics by following her tour schedule on social networking sites Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, and YouTube. The feel good “R & B 101” is currently available for a listen on i Tunes.
“I’m just so glad I made such an impression after all these years that people tell me they are happy to see Margo’s back.”
Who Says Girl Groups Can’t Get Along? Margo recruited high school friends and 9.9 band mates Wanda Perry and Leslie Jones to sing backup vocals for her album. Their friendship has endured the test of time, much like the ongoing relationship she has with her fans, even producing a
would become the debut single on the album he felt was a perfect match. Collaborator Gordon Worthy, and manager since her girl group days Belinda Wilson, and Eddie Sims are all long term relationships that helped bring the album together says Thunder. Upon recovering from her illness Margo says her message from God was “I got you here for a reason, there are things that you know and things that you are supposed to be doing.” “This is what I’m supposed to be doing.” Thunder and team birthed “R&B 10,” so named for a longing to “get back to the basics” of feel good R&B music and storytelling says Thunder. The songwriter has compiled a list of songs many years in the making incorporating stories she has seen in her life. “Did You Wrong” is such a tale, inspired by a couple fighting a young
Management: Belinda Wilson mei@gmail.com Eddie Sims esimss@aol.com Executive Producer: Ken Wilson www.MoonridgeEnt.com Fran Scott is an award winning east coast writer and publicist currently based in LA. Contact: FranLAPR@yahoo.com
OCTOBER 2011 - 41
Julius Hammond
Gives Back To His Community
Y
ou can call him a role model. The 6 foot Mr. Hammond doesn’t shy away from taking a starring role in helping his community. The leading man demonstrates his range a-la Denzel Washington, bringing his numerous special skills, and business savvy to the screen. “Everything I do, I give 110%” .
Grounded in family and raised in the church in his native Los Angeles, Julius Hammond knows his way around a set. Julius Hammond brought his considerable talents to “NCIS Los Angeles,” “NCIS NY,” “The Defender’s,” “No Ordinary Family,” and “Knocked Up” to name a few. His wide ranging special skills and personality are assets to any production. He can authentically portray his experiences in football, basketball, baseball, golf, fishing, go cart riding, boxing, and weight lifting. He is also a trained barber, plays drums and counts a mean Jamaican accent in his repertoire. Not surprisingly, the chocolate Aries is an early riser, hitting the gym to maintain his physique that makes him a sports official for youth league sports in his native Los Angeles. The mentoring he provides as a referee for basketball, an umpire in baseball and other sports provides much needed leadership example for the youth in Carson, California. The oldest of three, he continues to embody the role of leader. He credits the positive influences of father Joe Hammond, sister Alicia Hammond and mother Wendy Mashell in his development. As a highly visible positive example to those not as fortunate to have an available supportive family unit, he is meeting a much unaddressed need for urban youth.
Trained Star is Ready to Shine Growing up in the church, singing in the choir, Hammond has also played the flute, and saxophone, performed in local theatre, and continued his acting training in Las Vegas TV & Film School
42 - Hollywood WEEKLY
of Acting, among numerous commercial training classes and seminars to develop and sharpen his skills. Hammond majored in business management, and understands the importance of integrating business on the set. “I’m punctual, friendly, and the constant professional who you would enjoy working with” he assures. “My biggest motivation is my Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Another source of my motivation is my little girl Samarah. Every time I see her it makes me want to push harder and go further to be that successful actor and business man.” Julius Hammond also looks forward to developing other areas of his creative talents with a drama he has in mind in the role of producer, and looks forward to expanding his industry opportunities. Encouraged by a meeting with Denzel Washington at an industry event when the actor of the same height encouraged Hammond’s goals, Hammond says Washington’s work ethic is among actors he emulates. “When he graces the screen, he transforms himself into that particular character; you really believe that he is that person.” Although a self-described “passionate person who loves making people laugh, smile” Julius can see himself in a range of dramatic roles including transforming to a villain in the hotly in demand 18 -25 age range. Hammond is slated for rehearsals for his next feature film role going into production shortly. Hammond’s resume and reel can be viewed at Actors Access, LA Casting for direct bookings. Meetings are available by contacting his management team UEM at Sunset Gower Studios.
Contact: Launy Rhem (310)836-2446 Launy@ueminc.net
WE FILM More with Moe
mwm@canpr.ca
Entertainment Exclusives:
“ABDC” also known as “America’s Best Dance Crew” has had its fair share of airtime with six seasons on MTV. The dance competition featuring street dancers from all over the United States has “unofficially” been picked up for season 7 but it seems like things are already going downhill before production even started! Producers behind the show are struggling with casting “consistency”. Featured artists and guests judges have yet to be confirmed... PS> Is creator Randy Jackson too focused on American Idol?
ANISSA WILLIAMS C A S T I N G www.anissawilliamscasting.com providing casting services in hollywood for over 20 years
OCTOBER 2011 - 43
LA THEAT If you can’t decide what to dress up as this Halloween, you can get some great ideas by going to see one of these great shows playing this month in our local theatres: “Hyper-Chondriac” Brian Frazer should not have been sick. No sedentary couch potato, he was, in fact, a former competitive body builder, who ate right, slept enough, never smoked, and had only missed one day of flossing in the past five years. Why was he so agitated all the time? What was the source of his inner turmoil? In search of an answer, he tried everything, from Zoloft to Kabbalah to yoga to Ayurvedic medicine. His quest for physical and emotional health is more hilarious than desperate. Written by Brian Frazer, and directed by Kiff Scholl, it runs October 1 through November 6 at the Asylum Lab in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-960-7785 or visit www.plays411.com/hyperchondriac. “I Love Lucy® Live on Stage” is a musical comedy tribute to the most popular and longest-running television show in history. Lucy, Ricky, Fred, and Ethel: America’s favorite foursome… live on stage and in color for the very first time! Travel back to the 1950s and the Desilu Studios to watch the ‘filming’ of two episodes of the iconic and beloved sitcom, I Love Lucy. Enjoy vintage-style live musical commercials and be entertained by the music of the ‘Ricky Ricardo Orchestra’ live. Written by Kim Flagg and Rick Sparks, with music by Wayne Moore, and directed by Rick Sparks, it runs October 1 through December 30 at the Greenway Court Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 800595-4849 or visit www.ilovelucylive.com. “Betrayed” three young Iraqis go to work for the occupying American forces in Baghdad after the overthrow of Saddam. They come to find that some of their Iraqi neighbors consider them traitors because they work for the Americans. They also find that some of their American employers regard them with hostility and contempt. Ultimately, the trio finds that their lives are in deadly danger, and their pleas to their American bosses for greater security are being ignored. They wanted to assist the forces of freedom, but now they find that the threat of sudden, violent death is palpable. Written by George Packer, and directed by Andre Verderame, it runs October 6 through November 6 at the Lyric Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 818-826-3609 or visit www.whitmoreeclectic.com. “The Dinosaur Within” the disappearance of ancient dinosaur footprints in the Australian outback triggers a series of mysterious events bringing together a forgotten movie star, an Aboriginal elder and a grieving father on an epic journey of transformation. From the vast Australian desert to subway tunnels beneath Hollywood Boulevard, Dreamtime meets the Dream Factory when worlds collide in the play that ponders the depth of human loss, the fragile bonds between parents and children, and the possibility of redemption. Written by John Walch, and directed by Michael Michetti, it runs October 8 through November 6 at the Boston Court Performing Arts Center in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-683-6883 or visit www. BostonCourt.org. “Jane Fonda in the Court of Public Opinion” describes a little-known event that occurred when Fonda confronted a room full of hostile war veterans who were boycotting the announced filming of her movie “Stanley & Iris” as a forum to surface many controversial and polarizing issues that had festered for years regarding Fonda’s activism during the Vietnam War. Learn the truth about her anti-war activism in an impartial, accurate, and balanced story, and then formulate your own
RE BEAT
BY STEVE ZALL AND SID FISH
opinions. Written by Terry Jastrow, and directed by Terry Jastrow and Michelle Danner, it runs October 8 through October 30 at the Edgemar Center for the Arts in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-392-7327 or visit www.edgemarcenter.org. “Juan and John” the play is inspired by the remarkable friendship of baseball immortals Juan Marichal, Hall of Fame pitcher for the San Francisco Giants, and the late great John Roseboro, catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers. After an on-field brawl in 1965, which is regarded as the most notorious in the game’s history, and a decade of silent animosity, Marichal and Roseboro were able to construct a genuinely warm relationship, which endured until Roseboro’s death in 2002. At Roseboro’s memorial service, Marichal spoke as honorary pallbearer. Written by Roger Guenveur Smith, it runs October 20 through November 13 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 866-811-4111 or visit www.thelatc.org. “Come Fly Away” follows four couples as they fall in and out of love during one song and dance filled evening at a crowded nightclub. Blending the legendary vocals of Frank Sinatra with a live on-stage big band and 15 of the world’s finest dancers, it weaves an unparalleled hit parade of classics, including “Fly Me To The Moon,” “My Way,” and “That’s Life,” into a soaring musical fantasy of romance and seduction. Written and directed by Twyla Tharp, it runs October 25 through November 6 at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 800-982-2787 or visit www.broadwayla.org. “Dreams in Variation” A man searching for answers, a woman looking for lust, a girl seeking some shelter, an alcoholic with no love, sometimes it only takes a moment to change your whole life, and to realize that reality is easily altered. Look through someone else’s eyes, only to see a part of yourself played out in front of you. Explore dreamers and their dreams, with music from some of Broadway biggest hits including Wicked, Aida, The Producers, Next to Normal, Newsies, and more. Written and directed by Kristen Boule’, it runs through October 16 at the Hudson Backstage Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-960-1054 or visit www.plays411.net/dreamsinvariation. “CarnEvil: A Gothic Horror Rock Musical” Danny, a young man with a troubled past, returns to his family’s carnival after a long absence, and is thrust into the darkness he tried to leave behind him. An unspeakable horror is released, and he must face the long-kept secrets about himself and his family in order to save everything he cares about from doom. Written by Joe Fria and Michael Teoli, with music by Michael Teoli, and directed by Janet Roston, it runs through October 22 at the Sacred Fools Theater in Hollywood. For tickets call 310-281-8337 or visit www.sacredfools.org. “The Artificial Jungle” Chester Nurdiger lives in the back of his pet shop with his mother and his bored wife. One day a drifter comes along and they hire him to work in the shop. Sparks are ignited between the bored wife Roxanne and the slick Zachary Slade. They plot to murder Chester and feed him to the piranhas. Written by Charles Ludlam, and directed by Randee Trabitz, it runs through November 6 at the Lounge Theatre 1 in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-960-7863 or visit www. plays411.com/jungle.
Have a “boo-tee-ful” time on Halloween! 45 - Hollywood WEEKLY
Lexington Social House The epitome of intimate, chic dining. Lingering over fine food and drink throughout the night, allowing the music to set the perfect mood, and realizing the best things in life should be yours.
The social house concept was born from the idea of the perfect dinner party. Intriguing guests mingle over handcrafted food and drinks while high design and high energy come together to create the perfect evening out. Conversation is the centerpiece at this table! For decades, Hollywood & Vine has been known as the epicenter of Hollywood culture where colors, trends, preferences and art meld seamlessly together to create a masterpiece of an experience. The design of Lexington has followed this recipe to create an environment where old textures blend with contemporary art and design, from classic Queen Anne chairs with five legs to modern stick figure art displayed throughout the space. At Lexington, the lines between food and dĂŠcor design are blurred. While the interiors of Lexington offer guests multiple dining experiences from an intimate dinner for two to a more social experience with dining at the carrara marble bar, the exterior offers an entirely different evening out. Truly a gathering place, the garden patio is an outdoor room with an indoor vibe, complete with cocktail seating, a fireplace, tree canopies and its own bar. At Lexington Social House the art of lounging is simply a matter of taste. For more info call or visit www.lexingtonsocialhouse.com. Lexington Social House is located in Hollywood at 1718 Vine St Los Angeles, CA 90028
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www.LeReef.com Patrick Bastien Photography
www.collaryjewelry.com Actor,Chaice Shannon
(310)836-2446
Driven for Entertainment Success
Amy Markham
Photo by Brian Cardenas
Amy Markham is an internationally published model and is the star of no less than twelve online features, gracing eight different product posters and advertisements. She’s also been published 28 times and counting in recent months. The in-demand model and host has also conquered reality tv by appearing on a Telemundo series called “Promo Girls”, and being a camera favorite on the series “Any thing That Rolls” on Channel 39 in Houston, Texas. As a model host, she is well known among industry insiders as a hard worker that goes the extra mile to ensure only the best work is released. Amy’s extensive travels have taken her nationwide for appearances and photoshoots. plus, her worldwide adventures and proven appeal make Amy the ideal personality for the entertainment industry. 48 - Hollywood WEEKLY
A New Direction for Amy Markham Markham’s drive and desire for success is an asset to all productions she is involved in. Having conquered the automotive market with numerous print and live appearances, she is accepting offers and expanding her talents to more commercial gigs. The 5’5” powerhouse possesses the ethnically ambiguous appeal currently in high demand in the industry. Markham says, “Since the day I took the plunge and decided to go all in with modeling, it’s been a blessing. I have had the opportunities people only dream of, and it’s all because of my unique look and my personality.” Although the long-haired busty-beauty’s-look may bring to mind more current breakout stars currently dominating popular culture, she is an original and brings a fresh perspective and voice not currently heard on television. Understanding the importance of expanding her audience via online social networking, Amy’s ardent followers can be found engaging with her on social networking sites such as her facebook fan page, twitter and website. As an “Army Brat”, Markham was born in Seoul, Korea. She has lived in Germany and all over the US, but calls the area of Killeen - Ft. Hood, Texas her home. Soon after graduating high school, Markham first attended college as a Pre-Med Major, but after only a year, she instead chose a completely different career, only this time in entertainment. She adds,
“During my senior year of High School and Freshman year of college, I was diagnosed with a life threatening illness which could have drastically changed my life, had I not overcome it. After realizing that life is too short to hide behind your dreams, I decided to live mine to the end, and live everyday like it’s my last.” Her out going personality and ability to catch the eye of anyone around made her an instant hit. After deciding to go with her new passion and attending a few local automotive shows and just a few photo shoots, it was clear to everyone that Amy Markham was going to be a sight and name to remember. She has then became a fan favorite at shows, not only in Texas but the entire Southwest. After finally getting her foot in the door, Markham soon expanded more into the glamour world of modeling, gracing the pages of men’s magazines, websites, and posters. Markham’s next step to take in her career will be acting and film, as well as more hosting. Markham states, “It seems to be a natural progression for me. I am planning my career in such a way that I can continue doing what I love to do, and I love to be in front of the camera.” Currently Markham is entertaining audiences as a host on BiteMeTV and will no doubt soon be seen on your TV screens as the next breakout star from Hollywood. Amy with her team is currently reviewing relevant offers and taking meetings.
“After realizing that life is too short to hide behind your dreams, I decided to live mine to the end, and live everyday like it’s my last.”
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NEW HOLLYWOOD
RISING STAR Bombshell Looks & Winning Attitude: Erika Thompson
T
he down to earth and bubbly Erika Thompson loves a challenge, and wants to motivate you to do the same! The successful fitness model turned actress eats goals for breakfast, and invites you to come along for the ride. A walking encyclopedia of motivational quotes, she infuses everyone around her with her sunny outlook, warmth and charm. With personality plus on her side she has overturned obstacles to grace the covers of Iron Man, and American Curves, appearing in Maxim, MuscleMag, Body Mag, Splat, Que Pasa Vegas, and Fitness X in the short time she has been in the US. Hailing from South America’s Uruguay Erica’s stunningly exotic looks are a combination of Brazilian, Spanish and European heritages. She attributes her drive for success to her upbringing in the scenic capital of Montevideo in a loving family. The 5’4” Aquarius says of her big personality, “I was taught patience, humility, hard work and confidence,” she explains of her qualities as is evident to all lucky enough to meet with the bombshell.
Desire To Help Others
Thompson willingly shares her extensive knowledge of training and eating right with friends. Luckily, Thompson
50 - Hollywood WEEKLY
makes friends easily, always looking to help another. “Try different things every day,” she offers. “Every second, every minute is a new experience. Try to enjoy every moment. Every day is different “When you wake up each day, the sun is shining.” “You’re beautiful no matter what” she says of her quest to empower others with selfesteem. She has helped many with her sunny outlook and high energy suggestions on fitness and eating right.
New Roles
Erika is interested in bringing her charisma to both dramatic and comedic roles, for the growing Latin markets and beyond. She embodies the energy and presence of a Sofia Vergara, and would love to share the screen with favorites Denzel Washington, and Anthony Hopkins. “When I’m on the set of a shoot, I like to make people feel comfortable.” “I like to help people see the big picture in life.” The beauty engages her fans via her social networking sites, understanding the need to be available to connect with her growing audiences. A Hollywood insider Erica can be spotted out at industry events considering the many opportunities to bring her creative light and personality to entertain a wider audience. Erica Thompson may be booked through her management team at: UEM. Management Division, Launy Rhem (310)836-2446 - Launy@ueminc.net
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SUNSET GOWER + SUNSET BRONSON TWICE THE STAGES | TWICE THE OFFICES | TWICE THE HISTORY | ONE SUNSET STUDIO
Two Studios rich with Hollywood history, one the original home of Columbia Pictures and the other the original home of Warner Bros, have come together to form the largest independent studio feauturing 23 sound stages, a new state-of-the-art post production facility, and over over 750,000 square feet of office and support space on it’s 28 acres.
Come join our community of filmmakers at the Sunset Gower + Sunset Bronson Studios! 1438 N. Gower Street | Hollywood, CA 90028 | http://www.sgsandsbs.com/ OCTOBER 2011 - 52