NOV 8: GREAT CHEFS OF LA Annual Culinary Benefit at CBS Studio Center (Featured Event)

Posted by Don Rose

(from Estarla.com - link below)

On Sunday, November 8 the National Kidney Foundation of Southern California will be holding their 23rd annual Great Chefs of L.A. at CBS Studio Center. The theme this year is “Go Green, Go Organic” and Neal Fraser (BLD, Grace), Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger (Border Grill, Ciudad) will be the “chefs of honor” for their culinary contributions to the L.A. scene and for their past work with the Kidney Foundation. Candace Kumai, The Stiletto Chef of TLC’s “Cook Yourself Thin,” will be emcee for this event and will also host the GCLA Webfire Challenge webisode series sponsored by 944 Magazine.

Other “great chefs” at the event include:

Adam Horton, Saddlepeak Lodge

Benjamin Ford, Ford’s Filling Station

Celestino Drago, Drago Restaurant, Enoteca Drago, Il Pastaio, Drago Centro

Govind Armstrong, 8 oz.

Jason Johnston, Dakota

Jorge Chicas, The Bazaar – SLS Hotel

Josie Le Balch, Josie Restaurant

Roberto Maggioni, Lago

Sam Marvin & Christopher Goossen, Bottega Louie Restaurant & Gourmet Market

Simon Dolinky, BLVD 16 at Hotel Palomar

Steven Fretz, XIV

There will be an eco-conscious lounge serving up eco-conscious cocktails with VeeV Açai Spirit and each guest will receive “SWAG bags” with SWAG worth $250 in value courtesy of 944 Mag and Get Hip Get Green.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

12 – 3:30 PM

$150 per person

CBS Studio Center

4024 Radford Dr.

Studio City, CA 91604

(Source: http://www.estarla.com/2009/10/27/great-chefs-of-LA-ticket-giveaway/)

OCT 2-4: AMERICAN WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Returns With 3-Day Extravaganza (Featured Event)

Posted by Don Rose

The American Wine & Food Festival returns this weekend and promises to be better than ever. Three straight days of the very best in food, fun and festive entertaining enjoyment. As in previous years, the main event is Saturday night, but the days before and after will be stellar as well. AWFF is arguably the best annual wine and food event in Los Angeles, so we heartily recommend you attend... and enjoy! Details on each day follow below. For more information, see the official AWFF website at http://www.awff.org.

Red Hot Friday Kickoff Celebration

Date: Friday, October 2, 2009 - 7 p.m.
Location: Voyeur - "LA's new, exclusive nightlife destination"
7969 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles (valet parking)

Designed to whet the appetites of Festival first-timers and alums alike, this party offers chic eats by Wolfgang Puck Catering paired with terrific wines and innovative libations by Ultimat Vodka and Beam Global Spirits & Wines - all set to the sounds of a DJ playing your favorite music. The intimate lounge setting is perfect for mingling with philanthropists and foodies who are newcomers and well-knowns on the Los Angeles scene. Red Hot Kickoff Celebration tickets are available for $150 per person.

Saturday Evening American Wine & Food Festival

Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 - 5-11 p.m.
*5:00 PM Wolfgang Puck VIP Cooking Demonstration
*VIP entrance available only with tickets purchased through Festival Patron and MasterCard® promotions. (contact 1-800-964-4742 or offers@octagon.com)
6:00 PM Festival Opens
Location: Universal Studios Backlot
3900 Lankersheim Blvd., Gate 3, Universal City, CA

Staged against the backdrop of movie sets, the signature Saturday night event returns, once again, to Universal Studios Backlot. As dusk falls, a spectacularly lit movie set provides the stage for a culinary scene like none other: An unrivaled epicurean feast prepared by world-renowned chefs, superb libations including fine wines and smooth spirits, and a silent auction filled with luxury items - all set to swinging sounds of live bands. Cap the night off in “The Lounge” – an after-hours retreat featuring sparkling wines from the Loire Valley Region of France and whimsical desserts by Pastry Chefs Francois Payard and Spago's Sherry Yard. Kick back in cozy niches under the stars or dance the night away to live bands. Saturday American Wine & Food Festival tickets are available for $300 per person online or $350 at the door. Table reservations are available from $3,500.

Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner

Date: Sunday, October 4, 2009 - 6:00 p.m.
Location: Spago Beverly Hills
176 N Canon Dr., Beverly Hills, CA

Wolfgang Puck, Lee Hefter & Barbara Lazaroff with Chef de Cuisine Thomas Boyce & Executive Pastry Chef Sherry Yard welcome several of the world’s finest chefs to prepare an elegant six-course dinner at the 10th Annual Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner. This limited-seating event at Spago Beverly Hills is filled with exquisite dishes paired with select wines and a live auction featuring one-of-a-kind items and experiences. Celebrity chefs Gina DePalma of Ristorante Babbo; Dean Fearing of Fearing's at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas; Laurent Gras of L2O; Thomas Keller of Bouchon; Jereme Leung of Jereme Leung Creative Concepts Pte Ltd; and Nobu Matsuhisa of Matsuhisa & Nobu LA pair up, each preparing one course, for the grand gala dinner. Reservations for the Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner are available for $750 per person or $7,000 per table. Please contact Ellen Farentino, Spago, at (310) 385-0880.

SEP 24-27: 8th Annual Italian Feast of San Gennaro Returns to Hollywood (Featured Event)

Posted by Don Rose

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8th Annual Precious® Cheese

Italian Feast of San Gennaro LA

Returns To Hollywood September 25 – 27, 2009

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Assistant Chief Sharon Papa

Los Angeles Police Department

Honored at Prima Notte 2009 on September 24

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Community festival celebrates Italian culture with three days of

music, food, wine, rides and games

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(Hollywood) – The San Gennaro Foundation kicks off October’s Italian Heritage Month, a celebration of everything it means to be Italian, with their annual street festival in honor of Italian culture. Back for its eighth year, the Precious^® Cheese Italian Feast of San Gennaro, Los Angeles will once again take over Hawthorn Ave. (between Highland and Orange) in Hollywood.

“The Feast of San Gennaro is something my family and I look forward to every year,” Jimmy Kimmel said. “I have no doubt that our eighth year will be a great one.”

Inspired by the 78-year old New York City tradition, the Feast celebrates Italian culture, entertainment and cuisine, and throughout the weekend will feature great food, music, genealogy research, a Kid’s Corner, bocce, bingo, carnival rides, games and more. Surprise celebrity guests will join the cooking team, as they demonstrate Italian recipes on the Precious^® Cheese La Cucina Italiana Cooking Stage with special guest, Precious^® Cheese’s very own Chef Marco.

“We have been bringing Italian culture to the heart of Hollywood for eight years running,” said Frankie Competelli, President of The San Gennaro Foundation, Los Angeles. “We are thrilled to, once again, celebrate tradition, family, and great food with the community.”

The fun-filled weekend commences Thursday, September 24^th with the opening night gala, “Prima Notte 2009,” which raises funds for The San Gennaro Foundation’s charitable programs benefiting underprivileged children, families and homeless in Los Angeles.

Continuing in their commitment to honor prominent Italian-Americans in the community, The San Gennaro Foundation will pay tribute to Sharon Papa, Assistant Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department. Hosted by event co-founder Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla, Prima Notte is a star-studded fund-raising gala featuring some of the city’s most prominent Italian-Americans and dignitaries joining together in support of The San Gennaro Foundation.

Sharon Papa will receive the San Gennaro Foundation "Humanitarian Award” and Master of Ceremonies Mark DeCarlo will introduce special performances during “Italian American Bandstand”, featuring Italian artist’s music from the 50’s and 60’s. The evening’s charity auction will feature: a “Kobe Bryant” (2009 NBA Champion & MVP) autographed Lakers Jersey, a “Terry Bradshaw” (4-Time Super Bowl Champion, NFL Hall of Fame) and “Ben Roethlisberger” (2006, 2008 Super Bowl Champion Quarterback) autographed Pittsburgh Steelers Pro-line Helmet, “Eagles” and “Aerosmith” autographed Guitars, various luxury vacation packages to Italy, London, Paris, Hawaii, Mexico, Chicago, and tickets to “Oprah Winfrey”, “Blue Man Group”, “Cirque de Soleil” and New York’s famous “Macy’s Day Parade”. Local auction items include Gondolier rides and a family-style dinner hosted at the “Los Angeles Fire Department” Hollywood Firehouse.

Tickets for the opening night gala are available online at http://www.feastofla.org/ and are $100 each for VIP Admission, $50 each for General Admission or $2,000 for a reserved table for ten guests.

“Precious^® Cheese is proud to be presenting sponsor again this year helping to bring authentic Italian culture, entertainment, food and fun to the Los Angeles area,” said Jessica Ruth, spokesperson for Precious^® Cheese. “The San Gennaro Foundation’s commitment to preserving Italian-American heritage resonates with the Precious^® Cheese brand and we look forward to continuing to raise funds for the organization and its programs.”

The festival venue is conveniently located across the street from the Hollywood and Highland complex, directly behind the Jimmy Kimmel Live Theater at 1651 N. Highland Ave. Hosted by co-founder Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla, the Feast will be held September 25-27, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. General admission is $5 and kids under 12 are free. All proceeds benefit the San Gennaro Foundation, established to provide aid to children and families in need in Los Angeles.

For more information about the Precious^® Cheese Italian Feast of San Gennaro, Los Angeles, please visit http://www.feastofla.org/ or call (818) 508-0082.

About Precious^® Cheese

Precious^® is a brand of cheese brought to you by Lactalis Retail Dairy, Inc. LDRI is part of Groupe Lactalis, one of the largest dairy companies in the world. Lactalis produces a wide array of all-natural cheese products included among the leading brands of mozzarella, ricotta, fresh mozzarella, string and stick cheese sold in the United States. Our wide variety of specialty cheese is available to retail, foodservice and industrial customers. More information on Precious^® cheese may be found at http://www.preciouscheese.com/.

About The San Gennaro Foundation

The San Gennaro Foundation is a 501(3)c non-profit created by celebrity Jimmy Kimmel and producer Douglas DeLuca, along with some of Los Angeles' most prominent Italian-American citizens, to benefit underprivileged children and homeless in Los Angeles, as well as to provide entertainment and cultural enrichment to the community through its non-profit, cultural outreach program.

The Foundation’s mission is to uphold the principles established by St. Gennaro, patron saint of Naples who worked tirelessly to help people in need. In addition to fundraising, the group seeks to perpetuate cultural identity and solidarity within the Italian American community. All events are intended to embody the attributes of generosity and goodwill that define the Italian spirit. While some efforts celebrate Italian culture, the Foundation and its programs are not limited to Italian Americans and are supported by diverse individuals.

SEP 25: Wine & Raw Food Tasting at Yogaglo (Featured Event)

Posted by Don Rose

Raw Food for Real People (The LA Report's Featured Friday Event)

From the event's Facebook page:

Join us for a Wine & Raw Food Tasting Benefit at Yogaglo Studio
Host: Whole Foods Market Santa Monica
Type: Causes - Fundraiser
Network: Global
Date: Friday September 25 2009
Time: 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Yogaglo Studio
Street: 1800 Berkley Street
City/Town: Santa Monica CA
Phone: 3106506805
Email: kelly.layne@wholefoods.com

EVENT SUMMARY:

Leaf Organic's Raw Chef & Author Rod Rotondi offers culinary treats from nature paired with Whole Foods Market's finest organic wines at the beautiful Yogaglo studio in Santa Monica. Get a sneak preview of Rod's raw food book & DVD series... eat delicious food/wine as you help support Ann Cooper's School Lunch Revolution to transform lunch meals into smart meals!

ADMISSION/RSVP:

$30 Each , $50 Couple
RSVP to Kelly at 310.650.6805 or
kelly.layne@wholefoods.com

"When the Gods get together
this is what they will be eating & drinking"

For more info contact:

Kelly Layne - Marketing Supervisor
Whole Foods Market-Santa Monica
2201 Wilshire Blvd
Phone: 310.315.0662
Kelly.Layne@wholefoods.com

Event on Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=130362279108&index=1

Extra Food + Hungry People = Problem Solved Thanks to "Feed His People"

Recording Artist Norwood Young, Founder of ‘Feed His People’, Declares Outrage Over Wasted Food - And Does Something About It

Posted by Don Rose

“During a time when record numbers of people are losing their homes, unemployment is rising and a growing number of families are in need, California caterers, hotels and restaurants throw out roughly 1.5 million tons of perfectly good food every year," says Norwood Young, founder of ‘Feed His People’, a faith-based non-profit organization committed to ending hunger in America, beginning with Los Angeles County. “If you include food stores, medical/health facilities, schools, county facilities and businesses, over 5.8 million tons of food is discarded annually, according to a study published by the California Environmental Protection Agency in December 2004."

The UCLA Center for Health Policy and Research found that over 3 million adults in California could not put food on the table and 1.3 million children are going to bed hungry. In Los Angeles County alone, it is estimated that close to 1 million households are experiencing low food security. It's not just the homeless who are flocking to food banks and soup kitchens -- the worsening economy is forcing many working families to seek assistance just to put food on the table.

“Most people don’t know that if you are the one paying for that hotel banquet, wedding party or corporate event, you have the right to insist that any leftovers be donated to charity. And, when you are dining out, ask the restaurant what they do with their leftover food and let them know about the Good Samaritan Act,” says Norwood. The Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act, signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996, protects the donor and the recipient agency against any liability, excepting only gross negligence and/or intentional misconduct. According to Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code, “ . . . wholesome food that is properly saved, donated to an approved agency and properly receipted is eligible for an enhanced tax deduction equal to ½ of the donated food’s appreciated value . . ."

So why is so much food ending up in the dumpster? “Simply put, it's often too much hassle for restaurants, caterers and hotels to arrange for leftover food to be given to a homeless shelter or soup kitchen. So they toss it in the trash,” says Mr. Young. “However, the good news is that The Cheesecake Factory, The Olive Garden, Red Lobster, A&W Restaurants, KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Long John Silver’s have stepped up to the plate and are harvesting their leftover food, but where are the rest of the national chains ... and why isn’t every hotel, caterer and restaurant doing the same?”

To augment food rescue in Los Angeles County, ‘Feed His People’ is now working in conjunction with a Southern California food bank whose facility includes a 24,000 square foot warehouse with freezer and refrigeration space which can hold 4.5 million pounds of food at any given time. “We will pick up the food, transport it and deliver it to the hungry. All we need is your leftover food,” says Norwood, “and hopefully, together, we can end hunger in America."

To volunteer, donate food, or for more information, contact Feed His People at (323) 549-0876 or info@wefeedhispeople.org. The organization's website is located at www.wefeedhispeople.org/index02.htm.

ABOUT NORWOOD YOUNG

With a heart for the less fortunate, Norwood founded “Feed His People,” a non-profit organization to feed the hungry, in 2005. As the former lead singer for the legendary jazz group “Pieces of a Dream,” Norwood Young recorded the album entitled ‘Bout Dat Time’ and received a Gold Record for the hit single “What Can I Do?” Norwood has appeared weekly on television, starring on E! Network Television’s hit reality series “High Maintenance 90210.”

In the mid-1990’s, the New Jersey native purchased an estate in Hancock Park and was immediately plagued with controversy when he decorated his front lawn with seventeen statues modeled on Michelangelo's David. Norwood would spend the next thirteen years fighting for his freedom of expression as uptight neighbors tried to get him to take the statues down or move out! Today the infamous Youngwood Court Estate is both a landmark and tourist attraction, and in November 2008 Norwood Young was inducted as ‘King of Hancock Park’ by the prestigious LA City Beat magazine. Norwood has recently completed his autobiography, "Getting Back To My Me," written with Pulitzer Prize winner Karen Hunter. The memoir chronicles his life, from sexual and drug abuse to the perils of Hollywood. The book is due out in Spring 2010, and is published by Simon and Schuster.

JULY 26: 7th Annual Restaurant Awards and Chefs Night Out (TLR FEATURED EVENT)

Posted by Don Rose

The LA Report's Featured Event of the Weekend is the 7th Annual Restaurant Awards and Chefs Night Out on Sunday, July 26, 2009. Some of Los Angeles’ most noted chefs and restaurateurs will join several award-winning Napa Valley wineries for Angeleno magazine’s excellent event, taking place at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica, just steps from the beach.

The magazine’s food critic Brad A. Johnson and Tasting Panel Editor Anthony Dias Blue (you may have heard his excellent "lifestyle minute" broadcasts on local AM radio) will honor L.A. chefs Josiah Citrin, Walter Manzke, Bruce Marder, Joachim Splichal and Adrian Vasquez and others. The event will also include cooking presentations and recognition of the “Best of Show” winners of the San Francisco International Wine and Spirits Competition. Guests will indulge in delicious cuisine, fine wines and all things delectable while benefiting the children of Children’s Institute.

Date: July 26, 2009
Time: 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm

4:30 – 6:00 pm VIP Reception (VIP Ticket Required);
6:00 – 8:00 pm Chefs Night Out Event

Where: Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows -
101 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Purchase tickets before the event to ensure availability:
http://chefsnightout.eventbrite.com

$250 VIP Ticket includes: Chefs Night Out event plus a pre-event reception from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. with top chefs, presentation of Angeleno’s Restaurant Awards, and tastings of SF International Wine and Spirits Competition’s “Best in Show” winners.

$150 Ticket includes: Chefs Night Out event from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Guests will be treated to culinary creations prepared by top L.A. chefs paired with award-winning wines and spirits.

JULY 14: TASTE OF FARMERS MARKET, Centerpiece of Weeklong Celebration of LA LAndmark's 75th Anniversary

At "Taste" event, commemorating exact date of market's anniversary, visitors can sample the best from almost all of the market's 36 restaurants, while retail and grocery merchants offer special sales on select merchandise - some dropping prices to those found at the 1934 market

Featured Event - Posted by Don Rose

The Original Farmers Market - a true LA institution - celebrates its 75th Anniversary this week with an extra special ticketed event on July 14 (Bastille Day) 2009. For one all-inclusive price, guests can sample the best of the best from dozens of Farmers Market restaurants and grocers and enjoy special prices or exclusive discounts on select merchandise from Farmers Market shops. At least 39 Market Restaurants will be serving Taste of Farmers Market guests delectable selections such as French Toast, English Toffee, Corn Bread, Corned Beef Sandwiches, Sliders and more. In addition, over 20 Market Grocers and Shops will offer gifts or specials, such as hot sauces, peanut butter, stickers, hair brushes, watches, 75th Anniversary cigars and more.

There will also be entertainment: The Hot Club Quartet will perform on the Market Plaza (7 - 9 PM) and The Doo-Wop All Stars will stroll the Market (7 - 9 PM). A caricature artist and a magician will also provide fun for all. You can even meet the authors of two 75th Anniversary books: Los Angeles's Original Farmers Market (David Hamlin & Brett Arena / Arcadia Publishing) and The Original Farmers Market Cookbook (Joann Cianciulli / Chronicle Books); the authors will discuss their books and sign copies on the Market Plaza from 6-8pm.

Event Summary:

"Taste of Farmers Market": Date: Tuesday July 14, 2009. Location: Farmers Market - 6333 West 3rd St. - cross street, Fairfax - Los Angeles, CA. Time: 5 - 9 PM. More info: http://www.farmersmarketla.com/.

Pricing:

"Taste Of Farmers Market" tickets cost $20 per person (includes food tasting), or you can opt for a $25 ticket which also includes drink tickets for 2 alcoholic beverages. Tickets are available online, at the Farmers Market Customer Service Office, at (323) 933-9211, or http://www.farmersmarketla.com/.

Charity:

Proceeds from the "Taste" event will be donated to the West Hollywood Food Bank. In addition, non-perishable food item donations will be gratefully accepted throughout the evening.

JULY 1: LearnAboutWine Presents Summer TASTE: Rose and Rhone at the GROVE

Featured Event - posted by Don Rose


Summer TASTE has arrived, wine lovers! We at The LA Report have always enjoyed Ian's Learn About Wine events, and July 1st should be no exception, as evidenced by the event title: Rose, Rhone and BBQ! And the fun continues all summer long; the First Wednesday of each month this summer finds LearnAboutWine at the Park for SummerTASTE. Here is the main info for July:

Wed, July 1st, 7-9 pm at The Grove.
3rd and Fairfax in the Farmers Market complex.
Regularly $60 - Subscriber Sale $27.50 -
Use the Code "Summer" during Checkout.
Event Homepage - Tickets

SummerTASTE will combine the great outdoor environment at THE GROVE, with foods from top restaurants, music, and wine tasting. This event will support TJ MARTEL FOUNDATION, raising money and awareness for Cancer Research at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

Food by Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill: voted “Best Barbecue” by the Los Angeles Times, “Best Barbecue in L.A.” by 97.1FM and “A Favorite for Steak and Take-Out” by The Ventura County Star. (Wine lovers will be happy to know that every wine at Wood Ranch is half-price on Tuesdays!)

Event Host and DJ: Joe Escalante - Wino Wednesday Host at Indie 103.1 (they live on-line)

Click here to see Ian and Joe on the air on YOUTUBE

Participating Wineries Include:

Clos Solene - L'Aventure - Ranchita Canyon
Conway - Dragonette - Zaca Mesa
Tercero - Blair Fox Cellars - Derby
Highflyer Wines - and AOC Cotes du Rhone Wines

Wednesday's Wine List:

Blair Fox Cellars, "Haylee's Rose", Grenache/Counoise/Syrah, Santa Barbara , 2008Blair Fox Cellars, Viognier, Paradise Road Vineyard, Santa Barbara, 2006Blair Fox Cellars, Syrah, Paradise Road Vineyard, Santa Barbara, 2004Blair Fox Cellars, Syrah, Tierra Alta Vineyard, 2004Blair Fox Cellars, Syrah, Purisima Mountain Vineyard, 2004
Clos Solene, Roussanne, Booker Vineyards, Paso Robles, 2007
Deep Sea, "Sea Flower", Rhone Rose, 2008 Deep Sea, Viognier, Central Coast, 2008 Deep Sea, Rhone Blend, 2008 - barrel samplesDerby Wine Estates, Rhone "Mosaic Rose", Paso Robles, 2007Derby Wine Estates, "Fifteen 10", Viognier/Roussanne/ Marseanne, 2006Derby Wine Estates, "MOCAB", Mourvedre/Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006Dragonette Cellars, Rose, Santa Ynez, 2008Dragonette Cellars, Syrah, Santa Ynez, 2007Dragonette Cellars, Rose, Santa Ynez, 2008Dragonette Cellars, Syrah, Santa Ynez, 2007Highflyer, Viognier, Clements Hills, Borra Gill Creek Ranch, 2007Highflyer, Aviator "Proprietary Blend" , Somerston Vineyards, 2006Highflyer, Syrah, Napa/Sonoma/Santa Barbara, Somerston Vineyards, 2006Highflyer, Grenache Blanc, Napa Valley, Somerston Vineyards, 2008L'Aventure, Estate Cuvee, 2007Ranchita Canyon Vineyard, Grenache Rose, Paso Robles, 2007Ranchita Canyon Vineyard, "Fusion", Grenache/Petite Sirah, Paso Robles, 2005
Ranchita Canyon Vineyard, Old Vine Petite Sirah, Paso Robles, 2006
Rancho Arroyo Grande, Rhone Blend, 2005 Tercero, Rose, Grenache/Mourvedre, Santa Barbara, 2008Tercero, Grenache Blance, Santa Ynez Valley, Camp 4 Vineyard, 2008Tercero, "Cuvee Christie", G-S-M, Santa Barbara, 2006Tercero, Grenache, Santa Ynez Valley, Camp 4 Vineyard, 2006Zaca Mesa, "Z Gris", Grenache/Cinsault, Santa Ynez Valley, 2008Zaca Mesa, Viognier, Estate Grown, Santa Ynez Valley, 2008Zaca Mesa, Syrah, Estate Grown, Santa Ynez Valley, 2005
Zaca Mesa, "Z Cuvee", Grenache/Syrah/Mourvedre/Cinsault, Santa Ynez, 2006

And wines of the AOC Cotes du Rhone Wines:

Louis Bernard, Cotes du Rhone, 2007
Chateau La Couranconne, "Gratitude", Cotes du Rhone Villages Plan de Dieu, 2007
Cave de Tavel, "Lauzeraies", Tavel, 2008
Andre Andrieux, "Cuvee Victoria", Tavel, 2008
Chateau Guiot, Costieres de Nimes Rose, 2008
Domaine Belle, "Les Terres Blanches", Crozes-Hermitage Blanc, 2007
Domaine Combier, Crozes Hermitage, 2007
Perrin & Fils, "Les Christins", Vacqueyras, 2006
Montirius, "Garrigues", Vacqueyras, 2007
Francois Villard, "Version", Saint Peray, 2007
Moulin de la Gardette, "Cuvee Ventabren", Gigondas, 2005
Maison Chapoutier, Cotes du Rhone, Belleruche Blanc, 2007
Chateau Valcombe, Costieres de Nimes, Cuvee Tradition, 2005

Event Homepage - Tickets

LearnAboutWine.com Summer Series @ The Grove:
Jul 1 - Rose and Rhone and BBQ
Aug 5 - No Oak – Red and White Educated in Stainless
Sept 2 - Full Throttle and Voluptuous – Big Wines for Important Times

About LearnAboutWine

Founded in 1995, LearnAboutWine is Los Angeles' Source for Wine Education and Events.
Hosting events on a multitude of topics and interests, LearnAboutWine is committed to
educating people about wine and food, while eliminating the barriers of pretentiousness
and information overload. From beginner to advanced wine enthusiasts, LearnAboutWine
pushes aside the myths and legends and gives you the inspiration and information you
need to advance your wine knowledge and appreciation.
www.learnaboutwine.com

JUN 14: CHEFS GET COOKING IN PREPARATION FOR TASTE OF THE NATION, ONE OF LA'S BEST CULINARY BENEFITS

21st Annual Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation® Los Angeles, Presented by American Express ®, takes place this Sunday in Media Park, Culver City

Featured Event Listing, posted by Don Rose

WHO: Los Angeles’ hottest chefs and restaurants including: Jose Andres of the four-star The Bazaar at SLS, Mary Sue Milliken of Border Grill and Ciudad; XIV’s Michael Mina; Fred Eric of Tiara Café; Ben Ford of Ford’s Filling Station, Erin Eastland of Cube Café and Marketplace, Animal’s Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo (recently named two of the best new chefs in the country by Food & Wine), Grace and BLD’s Neal Fraser (of Iron Chef fame) along with over 40 more including Locanda Del Lago, Fig, Akasha, Angeli Café, Gjelina, Church & State.

WHAT: Share Our Strength’s Taste of the Nation Los Angeles is an annual food and wine event that raises the critical funds needed to support the national organization’s efforts to end childhood hunger in Los Angeles and across America. Guests will enjoy the city’s best cuisine paired with a myriad of wines and other beverages.

HIGHLIGHTS: On-stage cooking demonstrations by Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger and Michael Mina of XIV; a “Mole Cookoff” hosted by food critic Jonathan Gold; special appearances by Food Network TV personalities; a VIP area and exciting live and silent auctions. Chef Nancy Silverton of Mozza will be honoured at the event for her outstanding contributions to nutritional education and philanthropy.

WHY: Taste of the Nation brings together L.A.’s brightest culinary stars to ensure no kid goes hungry. According to the L.A. County Children’s Planning Council, 25%, or 1 out of every 4, children in L.A. County 17 years and under are living in poverty (640,000). Furthermore, over 4,000 children 5 years old and under are homeless on any given night. If they are living in poverty or homeless, they are going hungry.

WHERE: Culver City’s Media Park

WHEN: Sunday, June 14th, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

TICKETS: General Admission in advance, $125, General Admission day of $125; $175 for VIP in advance $175, VIP day of $185; purchase by calling 1-877-26-Taste or visiting www.tasteofthenationla.org.

TIMELINE OF KEY ACTIVITIES:

1:00-4:00 P.M. Book signings by Evan Kleiman, Mariel Hemingway, Nancy Silverton, Michael Mina and JoAnn Cianciulli

2:00-3:00 P.M. Chef demos featuring Chef Michael Mina of XIV; Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger (Border Grill, Cuidad)

3:15-3:30 P.M. Pulitzer prize winning food critic and Los Angeles Weekly’s Jonathan Gold announces Mole Off competition which will name the best Mole in Los Angeles

3:30 P.M. Waiter Races!

APR 15: FREE LUNCH AT IVAN KANE'S HIP HOLLYWOOD HOTSPOT, CAFE WA S

Event Listing by Don Rose

Who said there's no such thing as a free lunch? Not Ivan Kane.
His "Cafe Wa s" (not sure why there is a space in its official name)
is featuring free lunch (yes, free lunch, you read right),
but we expect it will get crowded so going early is advised.
(Info is from socialdomain.com, a great website for events.)

Ivan's foodie freebie in the middle of a bad economy,
and on tax day to boot, should make many mini-moguls
in the haven called Hollywood happy:

Free lunch Tax Day at Cafe Wa s
Wednesday April 15th 2009
Cafe Wa s - 1521 N Vine Street - Los Angeles, CA
Time 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Info 323.466.5400
Cost Free
Organization Home www.cafewas.com
Starting April 13, Ivan Kane’s Café Wa s will be open for lunch..... Since this year tax season is going to hit us all a little bit harder, owner Ivan Kane is offering free lunch on tax day, April 15th. It's first come, first serve. (There is a special menu for the free lunch day that is different from the regularly offered lunch menu, www.docstoc.com/docs/document-preview.aspx?doc_id=5177556&key=MjBmOTljMGIt&pass=YTFkYi00ZTU1 )

APR 21: ANNUAL BEN & JERRY'S FREE CONE DAY; FREE ICE CREAM 12-8PM (CALL TO CONFIRM IN YOUR AREA)

Can you believe this is the 31st year that Ben & Jerry's is doing a Free Cone Day?
True. According to the Web, they're giving Free Ice Cream 4/21/09 from noon to 8pm.
With our current anemic economic condition, the lines for this may be longer this year.
(By the way, wouldn't it make more sense to do this day on 4/20? Wink wink, nudge nudge...)
Below is more info on this deal, first from the SlickDeals website -- original link is
http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=0&t=1196819 :

Ben & Jerry's Free Cone Day ... on 4/21 from noon - 8pm YMMV *
Hey everyone, who doesn't like Ice cream, especially when it is free!!!
Ben & Jerry's is having their free Ice cream cone day this year on
... Tuesday, April 21, 2009
... 12:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: at participating Scoop Shops
Your local Ben & Jerry's may or may not be participating, so ... call and check ...
Store Locator: http://www.benjerry.com/scoop_shops

* YMMV = Your Mileage May Vary... or at least I assume that's what it means.
If you want the "scoop" from the official source, here it is, via the Ben & Jerry's website:

Tuesday, April 21st is Free Cone Day at Ben & Jerry’s, and you know what that means... free ice cream for you! As a way to thank our customers for their support and to celebrate 31 years of scooping the chunkiest, funkiest ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbet, Ben & Jerry’s scoop shops are happily giving it away! Maybe it’s time for you to try a new flavor that you’ve been wondering about without commiting your hard earned dollars or it’s time for you to enjoy an old favorite and savor in the deliciousness that is free ice cream? Hey, either way it’s time for you to come on in! Around the world, Scoop Shops are opening their doors from noon to 8:00 pm, to serve up a free scoop of your favorite flavor. Please check with your local Scoop Shop for more info! Grab a pal and come on down to have some good, ’scream fun on us!

Find a participating Scoop Shop near you!
Join the Free Cone Day event on facebook!

DEC 21: FREE MINI-BURGERS AT ALL MORTON'S RESTAURANTS IN LA, 5-6PM

Like burgers? Like smaller, bite-sized food items? Like free stuff?

Then today is your lucky day. All MORTON'S locations in Los Angeles are offering free mini-burgers, between 5pm and 6pm today, Sunday, December 21, 2008. The event is not only meant to show off their mini-meal deals, but also new drinks on the menu, according to the friendly woman I talked to at the Morton's in Beverly Hills. She said the promotion takes place in their Bar area. Advice: go early, since this freebie deal is only for one hour.

There are three LA-area locations: Downtown, Burbank, and Beverly Hills.

Here is some info for Beverly Hills, from the Morton's website: "Morton's The Steakhouse in Beverly Hills is now open and serving dinner 7 nights a week. Our new renovations include Morton's widely popular Bar 12-21 concept with its special Bar Bites menu and a new temperature controlled wine room, along with a significant renovation of our main dining room. Address: 435 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048. Phone: 310-246-1501."

DEC 12-14: ECO GIFT FESTIVAL RETURNS TO SANTA MONICA CIVIC AUDITORIUM (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, BEST BET)

Featured Event Listing - Posted by Don Rose

It's Holiday Shopping For The Soul! A one-stop shopping experience, the Eco Gift Festival presented by Tommy Rosen and the LA Times is the largest green holiday shopping event in the world, taking place December 12-14 at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Eco Gift showcases 150+ vendors with earth-friendly gifts, 15 live eclectic musical performances, the Visionary Speaker Series including Arianna Huffington (Founder - Huffington Post), Michael Brune (Executive Director, Rainforest Action Network), Shallom Berkman (Founder - Urth Caffe), Josh Tickell (award-winning filmmaker, "Fuel"), Millika Chopra, Eco Designer Linda Loudermilk, Susan Olsen (aka Cindy Brady-"Brady Bunch") at the Children's Stage, delicious food from top organic chefs and much more.

Shop It! Wrap It! Ship It! All on site for your convenience.

The LA Report attended this expo last year, and the vibe is simply amazing. Just being in their expo space makes you feel calm, and you will not only pick up great deals on wonderful gifts, but also learn important new ideas as well. The people attending are another reason to go -- you will meet smart, eco-conscious folks in an inspiring, inviting setting.

December 12-14, 2008. The annual Eco Gift Festival, featuring exhibits of products from 150+ environmentally oriented companies, music, speakers and organic foods. Tickets start at $10 daily, children under 12 & seniors are free. Location: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, at Pico and Main in Santa Monica. Visit www.ecogift.com for more info, or call (310) 399-3097, or see details below. TLR BEST BET

Ticket Info

Tickets are $10 per day and $20 for a weekend pass.
Children under 12 and Seniors over 65 get in for free.

Location

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
1855 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Dates and Show Hours

Friday, December 12th 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday, December 13th 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday, December 14th 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Parking

Parking is $8.00 at the venue lot.
Overflow parking available at the corner of Colorado and Main.

Public Transit

There are many ways to get to Santa Monica Civic Center without driving. Eco Gift Expo encourages you to explore the public transit options.

Directions to Santa Monica Civic Center

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium is located just south of downtown Santa Monica at 1855 Main Street, on the corner of Pico Blvd. and Main Street, in Santa Monica California 90401. Parking at the Civic is $8.00 per car. From the Westbound 10 "Santa Monica" Freeway: take the 4th Street exit. Turn left (south) on 4th Street to Pico Blvd. Turn right (west) on Pico Blvd. to Main Street. Parking is off Main Street. From the Southbound Pacific Coast Highway/ Eastbound 10 "Santa Monica" Freeway: take the Ocean Avenue exit just before the transition to the Eastbound 10 "Santa Monica" Freeway. Turn right (south) on Ocean Avenue to Pico Blvd. Turn left (east) on Pico Blvd. to Main Street. Parking is off Main Street.

Musicians

(see Eco Gift Musicians page)

Speakers

FRIDAY, DEC 12
12:00 pm Felicia Tomasko
1:00 pm Seane Corn
2:00 pm Robyn Griggs-Lawrence
3:00 pm Dr. Andrew Dattila
4:00 pm Compton Rom
5:00 pm Michael and Bianca Alexander
6:00 pm Rob Kramer
SATURDAY, DEC 13
12:00 pm David Crow
1:00 pm Josh Tickell
2:00 pm Arianna Huffington
3:00 pm Blake Mycoskie
4:00 pm Shallom Berkman
5:00 pm Scott Badenoch
6:00 pm Waylon Lewis
SUNDAY, DEC 14
11:00 am Tom Szaky
12:00 pm Dr. Edison De Mello
1:00 pm Linda Loudermilk
2:00 pm Sherry Beall
3:00 pm Michael Brune
4:00 pm John Marshall Roberts
5:00 pm Mallika Chopra

BEST BET: YOGURT EXPRESS: YUMMY YOGURT & ICE CREAM IN WESTWOOD; PAY BY THE OUNCE, GREAT FOR DIETS & BUDGETS

by Don Rose

The friendly man who runs Yogurt Express in Westwood (just opened a short while ago) told me his four yogurt flavors (Chocolate, French Vanilla, Coffee and Tart) are fat-free, no sugar added. They tasted great. I chose to buy a mix of chocolate and vanilla, and was very satisfied.

I love their concept: "Pay by the ounce", which can help you control your cost and calories. The service was very quick, and there is a scale on the counter to help you figure out when to say when. All the cups are the same size -- nice and large, so any toppings you get won't spill on the floor.

Yogurt Express takes cash and credit cards. They have a few tables to sit and eat, plus a bench just outside.

Also: FREE WI-FI!

And, I enjoyed the TV they have, which shows Danoo TV, an in-store silent infotainment service that is becoming popular (Westwood's Subway also has it). Danoo shows videos from YouTube, stock quotes, weather, local events and more. Very cool.
Overall, The LA Report loves Yogurt Express, one of our Best Bets for your Dessert cravings. Next time, I hope to try the Dr. Bob's Ice Cream they also offer, which has gotten rave reviews (see the 10 BEST photo).

Yogurt Express, 10878 Kinross, just West of Glendon, Westwood Village, L.A., CA.

NOV 4: VOTE! FREE COFFEE AT STARBUCKS IF YOU DO; PITFIRE PIZZA, KRISPY KREME & BEN AND JERRY'S ALSO GIVING VOTERS FREE YUMMYS FOR YOUR TUMMY

From Steve Bass, computer expert extraordinaire: "Go into any Starbucks, tell them you voted, and they'll give you a free cup of java. Just make sure you voted, eh?" Here is the direct link to the actual Starbucks offer: http://snipurl.com/5375u

Related rumor (heard on NPR radio): patriotic doughnuts free at KRISPY KREME if you vote.

Third offer we heard of, and posted days ago: show your "I Voted" sticker at Ben and Jerry's from 5 pm to 8 pm today, get free ice cream.

The fourth yummy for your tummy: go to any of the three LA-area locations of Pitfire Pizza from 11 am to 9 pm today wearing your "I Voted" sticker and receive your choice of either a bottle of limited edition "Obama/McCain" themed Jones Soda or a bottle of Edison Ale (the ale is for ages 21 and up, available at N. Hollywood and Downtown locations only). Pitfire's 3 locations: North Hollywood (5211 Lankershim Blvd), Downtown (108 W 2nd St # 108) and Westwood (2018 Westwood Blvd).

Of course, the best reason of all to VOTE is the free satisfaction of being part of our democracy and being part of history.

NOV 4: EXERCISE YOUR FREEDOM TO VOTE, THEN GET FREE ICE CREAM: Free Ben & Jerry's Scoop for Voters 5-8PM (then go Exercise!)

Ben & Jerry's wants to thank you for voting by giving you a free scoop of ice cream! Come to participating B&J shops on November 4, 2008 from 5-8pm, show them you voted and you'll get a free orb of yummy goodness. Show your "I Voted"sticker, a photo of you in front of your polling station, do the "I Voted dance" or just tell them you voted.
(from slickdeals.net)

Then make sure to go exercise afterwards, to burn off all those extra calories!

OCT 6: 4-8 PM: PHILIPPES, HOME OF THE FRENCH DIP, OFFERS THEIR SIGNATURE SANDWICH FOR 10 CENTS & 5 CENT COFFEE

From Yelp.com:

October 6 2008, 4:00pm - 8:00pm
Where: Philippe the Original Restaurant
1001 N Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA(213) 628-3781 Official Website
What/Why: This downtown restaurant, which has been family owned and operated since 1927, will be celebrating its centennial. The restaurant will be celebrating by serving up their famous french dip sandwiches for only 10 cents, along with 5 cent coffee.

A Yelp commenter says that Huell Howser will be there, which sounds cool, but unfortunately about 100+ other dealseekers are likely to be there with him on line. Make that a long long line. (As if Huell ever waits in line, but you get my drift.) Advice: go early, and/or call ahead to ask what the line looks like.

Note to fellow dealseekers: we hear that another LA institution, Canter's Deli, will be doing a similar deal day later this month.

CITIZEN SMITH: HALF OFF ALL FOOD ALL DAY MONDAYS, HALF OFF BOTTLES OF WINE TUESDAYS AT HOT HOLLYWOOD EATERY/LOUNGE

FRIENDS & FAMILY MONDAY // 50% OFF ALL FOOD ALL DAY

LUNCH: Noon-3pm DINNER: 6pm-2am

JAZZ TUESDAY // 50% OFF BOTTLES OF WINE ALL NIGHT

Enjoy their resident Jazz band whilst enjoying an extensive wine list

Citizen Smith, 1600 Cahuenga Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028 - 323 461 5001. Call 323 461 5001 for reservations or visit them on the web: www.citizensmith.com.

SEP 27: 26th AMERICAN WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL RETURNS TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS BACKLOT

Featured Event Listing posted by Don Rose

***update: Saturday's event is now SOLD OUT, but tickets are still available for the Friday evening “Red Hot @ Red Seven” party***

The AWFF's annual food and wine extravaganza is a Best Bet of The LA Report, one of our Top Ten Annual LA Events. After an extremely successful 25th anniversary festival weekend last year, another fantastic soiree is expected this month. Once again, the world’s top chefs and fine wine and spirit purveyors will join in celebrating the 26th year of the American Wine & Food Festival.

On September 27, 2008, a line up of today’s most prominent chefs will converge upon Universal Studios in Los Angeles for a culinary celebration at the American Wine & Food Festival. A star-studded gathering of internationally celebrated chefs and fine wine and spirit purveyors will serve in honor of the occasion.

The American Wine & Food Festival is open to the public and features live music, a silent auction and an epicurean feast prepared by an array of the world’s greatest chefs. More details and a link to buy tickets are at: www.awff.org/tickets.html. Must be 21 years or older.
Event Beneficiary: Meals On Wheels

Since its inception in 1982, the Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation has supported the American Wine & Food Festival, raising more than $14 million for the Los Angeles Chapter of Meals On Wheels. This organization serves thousands of meals each day to Los Angeles’ homebound, senior and disabled citizens.

Tickets and Ticket Packages

In addition to $300 individual tickets, the Festival offers special Patron and Corporate packages. For all ticket inquiries please call Joan Wrede at(310) 574-3663.

$25,000 Premier Patron- A preferred Festival Table, seating for twelve (12)- Two (2) invitations to the coveted Sunday Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner at Spago Beverly Hills- Saturday Festival limousine service for twelve (12), roundtrip from the Hollywood and Highland Renaissance Hotel (please call 310-574-3663 for reservations)- Twelve (12) invitations to the Saturday “Wolfgang & Friends in the Kitchen” demonstration (early 4:30pm admisson)- Twelve (12) invitations to the Friday evening “Red Hot @ Red Seven” party- Prominent full-page ad placement in the Festival program book- Recognition in the Festival program book- Corporate or Individual Signage at the Festival, if desired- Your support will provide 3,830 hot, nutritious meals to the homebound in Los Angeles.

$15,000 Distinguished Patron- A preferred Festival Table, seating for ten (10)- Six (6) invitations to the Saturday “Wolfgang and Friends in the Kitchen” demonstration (early 4:30pm admisson)- Six (6) invitations to the Friday evening “Red Hot @ Red Seven” party- A full-page ad in the Festival program book- Recognition in the Festival program book- Corporate or Individual Signage at the Festival, if desired- Your support will provide 2,170 hot, nutritious meals to the homebound in Los Angeles.

$10,000 Supporting Patron- A preferred Festival Table, seating for ten (10)- Four (4) invitations to the Saturday “Wolfgang and Friends in the Kitchen” demonstration (early 4:30pm admisson)- Four (4) invitations to the Friday evening “Red Hot @ Red Seven” party- One half-page ad in the Festival program book- Recognition in the Festival program book- Your support will provide 1,350 hot, nutritious meals to the homebound in Los Angeles.

$5,000 Festival Patron- A VIP Festival Table, seating for ten (10)- Two (2) invitations to the Saturday “Wolfgang and Friends in the Kitchen” demonstration (early 4:30pm admisson)- Two (2) invitations to the Friday evening “Red Hot @ Red Seven” party- Recognition in the Festival program book- Your support will provide 500 hot, nutritious meals to the homebound in Los Angeles.

$3,500 Table Patron- A Reserved Festival Table, seating for ten (10)- Recognition in the Festival program book- Your support will provide 165 hot, nutritious meals to the homebound in Los Angeles.

$2,500 Sponsor-a-Chef - Sponsor the chef of your choice. Your name or company name will appear on professionally-designed signage at the chef‘s Festival station- Two (2) invitations to the Saturday “Wolfgang and Friends in the Kitchen” demonstration (early 4:30pm admisson)- Two (2) invitations to the Friday evening “Red Hot @ Red Seven” party- Festival Table reservations for two (2)- Recognition in the Festival program book

$1,000 Festival Friends- Two (2) invitations to the Saturday “Wolfgang and Friends in the Kitchen” demonstration (early 4:30pm admisson)- Festival Table reservations for two (2)- Recognition in the Festival program book- Your support will provide 100 hot, nutritious meals to the homebound in Los Angeles

SEP 25: 7th Annual Precious Cheese Italian FEAST OF SAN GENNARO Returns to LA with PRIMA NOTTE Gala; Feast of San Gennaro Then Continues All Weekend

Prima Notte kickoff event features a galaxy of stars, including Jimmy Kimmel, Adam Carolla, Jerry Vale, Danny Devito, Rhea Perlman, Seth Green, Dr. Drew, Deana Martin and more, all for a great cause this Thursday, September 25th in Hollywood

The San Gennaro Foundation kicks off October’s Italian Heritage Month, a celebration of everything it means to be Italian, with their annual street festival in honor of Italian culture. Now in its seventh year, the Precious® Cheese Italian Feast of San Gennaro, Los Angeles will once again take over Hawthorn Ave. (between Highland and Orange) in Hollywood.

“I am thrilled to be hosting our seventh annual Feast of San Gennaro,” Jimmy Kimmel said. “Look for me there; I’ll be the one with my head buried in a sack of zeppoles.” The fun-filled weekend commences Thursday, September 25th with the opening night gala, Prima Notte 2008, which raises funds for The San Gennaro Foundation’s charitable programs benefiting underprivileged children, families and homeless in Los Angeles.

Tickets for the opening night gala are available online at www.feastofla.org and are $100 each for open seating, or $2,000 for a reserved table for ten guests.

WHO: Hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla honoring Jerry Vale and Robert Barbera, Publisher of L’Italo-Americano Newspaper. Performances by Cristina Fontanelli, Joey Gian, Tony O, Alfio, Deana Martin and the Pat Longo Orchestra. Additional guests include Danny Devito (“It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”), Rhea Perlman (“Cheers”), Rocco DiSpirito (“Dancing with the Stars”), Jennifer Esposito (“Samantha Who?”), Seth Green (“Family Guy”), Dr. Drew Pinsky (“Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew”), Kristen Alfonso (“Days of Our Lives”), Joe Mascolo (“Days of Our Lives”), Matthew Borlenghi (“The Bold and the Beautiful”) and many more.

WHAT: Prima Notte is a star-studded fundraising gala and auction featuring some of the city’s most prominent Italian-Americans and dignitaries who join together to support the San Gennaro Foundation.

Continuing in their commitment to honor prominent Italian-Americans in the community, The San Gennaro Foundation will pay tribute to legendary singer Jerry Vale and publisher Robert Barbera. Music legend Jerry Vale will receive the San Gennaro Foundation “Italian Heritage Award” and Robert Barbera, publisher of the L’Italo-Americano Newspaper, celebrating its 100th anniversary, will receive the San Gennaro Foundation "Humanitarian Award." Master of Ceremonies Mark DeCarlo will introduce special performances by Cristina Fontanelli, Joey Gian, Tony O, Alfio, Deana Martin and the Pat Longo Orchestra.

The evening’s charity auction will feature: roundtrip airfare from the US to Italy; luxury vacations to New York City and Miami’s South Beach, VIP package to Jimmy Kimmel Live!; golfer’s vacation to Arizona’s Sonaron High Desert; autographed poster and tickets to Dancing with the Stars; autographed guitars from Madonna, Paul McCartney and the Rolling Stones; and autographed NFL helmets from Peyton and Eli Manning and Brett Favre, among many more great prizes.

WHERE: 1651 N. Highland Ave. Hollywood, CA 90028 (1 block S. of Hollywood & Highland)

WHEN: Thursday, September 25, 2008 from 5-10 pm
4:30 pm Press Check-in
5:00 pm Red Carpet Arrivals
6:00 pm Mark DeCarlo’s Welcome to Prima Notte

SEP 26-28: FEAST OF SAN GENNARO Community festival celebrates Italian culture with three days of music, food, wine, rides and games open to the public

Inspired by the 78-year old New York City tradition, the Feast celebrates Italian culture, entertainment and cuisine, and throughout the weekend will feature great food, music, genealogy research, a Kid’s Corner, bocce, bingo, carnival rides, games and more.

“We have been bringing Italian culture to the heart of Hollywood for seven years running,” said Frankie Competelli, President of The San Gennaro Foundation, Los Angeles. “We are thrilled to once again celebrate tradition, family, and great food with the community.”

Surprise celebrity guests will join cooking team Filippo and the Chef, as they demonstrate Italian recipes on the Precious® Cheese Cooking Stage with Precious® Cheese Chef Mark Sciortino.

“Precious Cheese is proud to be presenting sponsor again this year helping to bring authentic Italian culture, entertainment, food and fun to the Los Angeles area,” said Jessica Ruth, spokesperson for Precious Cheese. “The San Gennaro Foundation’s commitment to preserving Italian-American heritage resonates with the Precious Cheese brand and we look forward to continuing to raise funds for the organization and its programs.”

The festival venue is conveniently located across the street from the Hollywood and Highland complex, directly behind the Jimmy Kimmel Live Theater at 1651 N. Highland Ave. Hosted by co-founder Jimmy Kimmel and Adam Carolla, the Feast will be held September 26-28, 2008 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. General admission is $5 and kids under 12 are free. All proceeds benefit the San Gennaro Foundation, established to provide aid to children and families in need in Los Angeles.

For more information about the Precious Cheese Italian Feast of San Gennaro, Los Angeles, please visit www.feastofla.org or call (818) 508-0082.

About Precious Cheese

Precious® Cheese is a brand of Sorrento® Lactalis Commercial, Inc. Founded in 1947, Sorrento produces a wide array of all-natural cheese products, included among the leading brands of mozzarella, ricotta, fresh mozzarella, string and stick cheese sold in the United States. Sorrento also markets a wide variety of specialty cheeses available for retail, food service and industrial customers. More information on Precious Cheese may be found at www.preciouscheese.com.

About The San Gennaro Foundation

The San Gennaro Foundation is a 501(3)c non-profit created by talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, producer Douglas DeLuca, and some of Los Angeles' most prominent Italian-American citizens, to benefit underprivileged children and homeless in Los Angeles, as well as to provide entertainment and cultural enrichment to the community through its non-profit, cultural outreach program. The Foundation’s mission is to uphold the principles established by St. Gennaro, patron saint of Naples who worked tirelessly to help people in need. In addition to fundraising, the group seeks to perpetuate cultural identity and solidarity within the Italian American community. All events are intended to embody the attributes of generosity and goodwill that define the Italian spirit. While some efforts celebrate Italian culture, the Foundation and its programs are not limited to Italian Americans and are supported by diverse individuals.