Rescue Planet

October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Editorials

 

Welcome to Rescue Planet.  No more sitting on the sidelines.  Save the lives of healthy, adoptable dogs and cats in Southern California and beyond!   We are seeing record numbers of animals being dumped at shelters already over-populated, and most of these loving creatures are not making it out alive!  This is an unacceptable nightmare for all the animals being killed, for the shelter workers who have to put the needles in their paws, and for the stat of California, which spends millions each year to shelter animals for a few days before they are euthanized. 

People losing their homes to fore- closures and abandoning pets is part of the problem.  But another huge part is the number of dogs and cats not being spayed or neutered by owners.  Spaying and neutering pets not only prevents unwanted puppies or kittens from being born, it prolongs the life of your pet and prevents them from developing serious health issues as they get older.  The misconception that spay/neutering hurts an animal or changes its personality is completely false.  Decreased hormone production actually calms your animal and makes him/her a more loving companion.    

A new mandatory spay/neuter law recently passed in Los Angeles now  makes it mandatory to spay/neuter your dog or cat after it is four months old.  Now another bill is being considered (AB 250) to make it law throughout the state.   Passing this law will help reduce the horrific over-population problem in our shelters, and eventually reduce the millions of dogs and cats being killed every year.  It will also save California millions of dollars.  Please join the fight to get this bill passed. Visit: www.socialcompassioninlegislation.org

This Month’s Featured Animals In Need Of Rescue   

CHLOCHETTE

—the sweetest little girl kitty you could meet.  She is a 2-year-old Tabby who was left outside the shelter in a little box, meowing away and waiting for someone to help her.   She is very affectionate and loves to give nose nuzzles and have her chin rubbed.  Totally healthy, spayed and gets along with other cats.   A beautiful young jewel who would look great curled up next to you on the sofa!  Contact LoranSlana@yahoo.com 

BULLITO

—a most handsome ball of fur and energy you’ve ever seen.  He is the King of the Castle and lover of all who bow before him and rub his bottom.  He loves belly rubs and meowing away about how charming he is.  He was abandoned by his family at the shelter after they lost their home, and is now being fostered with other cats.  This is a big, healthy 13-pound cat, so make sure you’ve got good muscles in order to pick him up. Contact LoranSlama @yahoo.com   

LIAM

—a huggable orange 5-month old kitten, perfect to adopt in time for Halloween celebration!  Look at those eyes!  He was found stray in the street, cold, hungry and probably separated from his mom and litter mates through no fault of his own.   He is very playful and will chase a ball or string for hours.  He is healthy and neutered, and loves other kitties.  Why not  adopt him and another kitten at the same time, as they make great companions to you and each other. Contact Suzanne at catsfordays@gmail.com 

SCRAPPY

—a gorgeous 3-year-old Labrador and Shepherd mix, he was rescued from the shelter after his family lost their home to foreclosure.  He is extremely affectionate and great with people, children and other dogs.  He also loves to go on hikes and take romantic strolls on the beach.   This poor little guy lost the only home that he ever knew and was literally rescued the day the shelter was going to euthanize him.  Now he is ready to come home to be witch you.   Contact Elle at strangestangelsr@yahoo.com 

CHUCKIE

—the sweetest face Border Collie mix 8-month-old puppy ever.  Rescued from a shelter just hours before he was going to be euthanized.  Now he is beyond grateful for a second chance at life and is ready to give you some grateful licks with that big happy tongue of his!  Chuckie is great with people and other dogs, and also extremely photogenic.   Contact Kris at info@thekriskellyfoundation.org

By david Sobel

From The Editor

October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Editorials

I LOVE THE EMMYS.  Actually, I love any opportunity to get dressed up and go any place now that I think about it.  This year we did the ALIVE Expo Green Pavilion Luxury Lounge Gifting Suites and met the most incredible sponsors that you can imagine.  The booths were all impressive and we just went from one to another making friends and    seeing the sights.  We have included  photos from the event.  We hope that you not only like them, but get some great ideas of where to go for all that is organic and natural. 

    

This is our Beauty, Health & Wellness issue.  Getting ready for another New Year is right around the corner.  Why not start your resolution to get in shape right now.  Then, on New Years Eve you can really celebrate with the new person that you have become.  Whether it is losing weight, starting a new exercise program, getting in a little cosmetic surgery to round out the rough edges, or maybe getting that fabulous smile that you always dreamed about—we have a jammed packed issue of the “Best-of-the-Best” for you to refer to.

—Suzanne Takowsky

When Plastic Surgery Goes Bad. Doctors Corner With Dr. Richard Ellenbogen

October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Business Highlights

 

For more than 25 years Dr. Richard Ellenbogen has been at the forefront of Plastic Surgery innovation. A noted author, television personality and teacher, his surgical procedures and techniques are used by surgeons around the world. 

Why Does Plastic Surgery Go Bad? 

“In my opinion, there are two primary reasons why surgeries go bad:

1. A large number of practitioners are not board-certified and lack experience.  

2. Patients aren’t comfortable questioning a surgeon’s qualifications and move forward with unnecessary surgeries. 

A great deal of expertise is necessary to successfully complete all aspects of plastic surgery, including what are often considered simple injectibles.  In addition to unskilled practitioners, patients find it difficult to question a doctor’s recommendation; some doctors recommend surgeries which appeal to a patient’s underlining desire to better themselves, however, the surgery may not be necessary or provide a patient with results that they desire.” 

What To Do When Revision Surgery Is Necessary? 

“Find an experienced plastic surgeon with a history of completing revisions on surgeries without positive results.  Revision surgeries are a substantial part of my practice.  I use photos of patients then ‘correct with computer imaging’ the bad results to show there is hope.  I  confirm with patients what they have in mind, if it’s something I can do and some- thing that looks aesthetically pleasing.  A qualified surgeon knows that beauty is based on symmetry.”

Rhinoplasty (nose)

“It’s estimated that 15-25% of people who have aesthetic rhinoplasties in the U.S. have them redone; less than 50% are satisfied with results they get. Visit

www.RevisionNoseSurgery.com which shows how we revise bad nose surgery.“

Breast Augmentation

“Breast augmentation surgery is the most revised surgery in the U.S. for reasons such as hardness of the implant or because the implant moves.  Visit www.RevisionBreastSurgery.com view breast-surgeries-gone-wrong; see options to correct unsatisfactory results.”  

Liposuction

“Liposuction surgery can turn out to be asymmetrical or have a lumpy look that requires fat grafting to fix bad results.  Estimates show 30% of all liposuction surgeries require a revision.  Most surgeries that require an incision leave a scar and some patients develop wider, unsatisfactory scars which need to be repaired.  BEFORE surgery make certain your surgeon has experience and proven ability to create a natural result that can’t be visually seen as a ‘re-do’. In revising bad liposuction some patients need a surgeon with extensive experience using a laser that can also remove excess fat to smooth an area, or add fat to an area.”

Injectibles

“Qualified physicians know for patients over-injected with Restylane or JuvaDerm there are injectable substances to correct  or dissolve mistakes almost immediately.  When Botox has been over-done a patient has to wait it out until it goes away; but if an eye is droopy there is an antidote.” 

Unrealistic Patient Expectations

“Everyone considering plastic surgery should be informed by their surgeon of complications which can occur.  Qualified surgeons must speak with patients about  unrealistic revision surgery results.  Not all revision surgery turns out to be what a patient or for that matter a surgeon feels is ‘perfect’ and that can occur if an initial surgery produced devastating results difficult to revise.  It’s vital that people do their homework finding a qualified surgeon BEFORE they move forward with a surgery they later regret. One of the most retarding aspects of my practice is helping patients disappointed by a surgery-gone-bad then give them realistic and natural revision results.”  

For information about plastic surgery email: info@beverlyhillsbody.com.  Include your name, email address/phone number and a question you would like discuss to the attention of Deborah Canter Head Consultant and Director of Beverly Hills Body.  Dr. Ellenbogen’s radio show ‘Body Beautiful’ will debut in October and he address plastic surgery questions. Dr. Ellenbogen & State of The Art Surgery Center will host a Red Carpet event in October open to the public  to meet the doctor and tour his newly renovated 5,000 square foot surgery center.  RSVP at info@beverlyhillsbody.com 

Richard Ellenbogen, M.D.
9201 West Sunset Blvd Suite 202
Los Angeles, CA 90069 
310.276.3183
www.beverlyhillsbody.com

Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin, Antioxidant Rich Recipes for Glowing Skin

October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Business Highlights

 

From Teen Vogue, Healing Lifestyles and Spas Magazine to Natural Health Magazine, the Discovery Channel’s Planet Green, and Working Mother Magazine, Elizabeth TenHouten’s expertise as a natural Chef and beauty expert are raising the beauty bar to a new level—one that includes self-love and nurturing one’s inner self to achieve outer beauty.

 

Former model, animal rights activist and Editor-in-Chief of Celeb Life magazine, Elizabeth TenHouten is a beauty and skin-care expert and cookbook author.  In her book; Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin with Antioxidant-Rich Recipes for Glowing Skin she captures the very essence of inner and outer beauty combining the scientifically proven benefits of antioxidants for skin health.  Her creative recipes are not only delicious and healthy for your skin, but Elizabeth goes a step further giving her readers 50 “Beauty Bytes” and meditative exercises to achieve glowing, radiant skin from the inside out.

ST: Let’s talk about your journey into the nutrition and beauty industry.

ET: My inspiration for writing this beauty cookbook stems from my love of cooking with healthy, antioxidant ingredients for beautiful skin, and my philosophy that beauty and health are synonymous.  As I began researching antioxidant- rich foods and creating recipes for glowing skin, my idea of cooking for beauty morphed into something deeper as I pondered what beauty really is.  My book matured into incorporating an inspirational message, stemming from my philosophical quest to define beauty.  I define beauty as one’s inner, authentic self.  The core philosophy of my book is rooted in the existential concept that we are always in a state of ‘becoming’: the more one works on her inner beauty, the more beautiful she becomes.  Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin offers antioxidant-rich recipes to achieve a beautiful, radiant complexion. Antioxidants are chemical compounds that occur naturally in our bodies and in certain foods.  They fight free radicals in the environment that wreak havoc on our skin. Our bodies can’t produce antioxidants, though. My recipes are infused with antioxidant-rich ingredients; your skin will glow.  

ST: You have created natural do-it-yourself, topical beauty recipes for various  skin woes.

ET: Yes.  Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin has over 50 “Beauty Bytes”.  In addition to developing antioxidant-rich recipes, I have studied natural beauty remedies and solutions. I offer antioxidant-rich “Beauty Bytes” as a fun and creative way to share beauty secrets with my readers.  They are luxurious home- made facial masks, hair treatments, and body scrubs.  For example, de-puffing your eyes with warm tea bags for “pretty peepers”, or an apple cider mask for improving acne.  My “Beauty Bytes” are regularly featured in numerous print and online publications, for instance, CelebutanteSisters.com, a site entirely dedicated to DIY beauty recipes.

Women struggle with the concept of beauty, and here in L.A., it seems that females take it to another level. What do you hope to accomplish with your book on inner and outer beauty?

ET: True beauty is nurtured from within.  I want to raise people’s spirits and provide them with a platform to understand their true beauty, and the beauty that is within each and every human being.  I hope that with this understanding of authentic beauty, people—especially women, will feel happier, have a new- found appreciation for their body and their spirit…and will feel beautiful.  Additionally, I present my readers with inspirational, philosophical quotes, and meditation exercises. I believe that this reflection and introspection are pivotal to attaining our highest potential for beauty.  I write that beauty is more than just skin-deep, which is why my cookbook for glowing skin is unique. The book incorporates aspects of the mind, body, and soul, as the way to achieving beautiful skin. Those who read my book will be inspired to cook for the sake of their beauty, and health, which I believe are synonymous. I want people to know how miraculous our bodies are, and why it is so important to care of our selves—body, mind and soul. Especially for today’s busy women, caring for ourselves is how we truly connect with our authentic, inner beauty.

 

Pomegranate Tuna

In season by September; use plastic cutting board as pomegranates stain wood.

Ingredients:

•1 medium pomegranate

•1 (6 ounce) can chunk white tuna in water

• 4 Radicchio leaves

•1/4 cup raw almonds

• Lemon wedge for garnish

• Olive oil, to taste

Cut the pomegranate into two/three pieces.  With the seeds facing away from you, use your thumbs to push pomegranate pieces inside out, then, pick off the seeds. Place radicchio leaves on a plate.  Flake tuna with a fork and place inside radicchio with olive oil. Sprinkle with almonds, pomegranate seeds, and chives.  Garnish with lemon wedges and serve.

 

Sprout and Flowers

Garnish with an edible flower from your garden!

Ingredients:

•1 cup extra virgin olive oil

•Juice from 1 lemon

•1/2 cup rice vinegar

•1 tbsp. flat leaf parsley

• Dash Cayenne pepper

•10 Brussels sprouts; cut in half; steamed

•2 Roma tomatoes, quartered

•1 cup cauliflower florets

•2 tablespoons sunflower seeds

•2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds

•1 cup prepared pumpkin, butternut squash or sweet potatoes, then cut into chunks.

Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, rice vinegar, parsley, and cayenne pepper.  Add all ingredients in a bowl; toss with dressing.  Serve at room temperature or chilled.

 

BOOK available November 29th 

in bookstores across the country, on Amazon,
and also visit: www.elizabethtenhouten.com

Roberto Cavalli Joins Face Forward Foundation in Beverly Hills

October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Editorials

 

Celebrities, community leaders and concerned citizens all gathered to raise funds and awareness for Face Forward, at the Roberto Cavalli store, in Beverly Hills.  Face Forward founders are renowned plastic surgeon/biochemist Dr. David Alessi and his wife, business partner/ CEO of Alessi Skin Care, Deborah Alessi, who along with Bradley Smith, store manager of Roberto Cavalli, of Beverly Hills hosted the event.  The evening showcased fashions by Roberto Cavalli to help benefit Face Forward, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded by the Alessi’s that provides pro-bono physical reconstruction and emotional healing  to victims of domestic violence/gang related disfiguring crimes.   The design powerhouse donated a percentage of the evening’s sales to Face Forward. 

“We went to shelters and spoke with domestic violence victims and saw a need for more than reconstructive surgery to correct physical wounds,” David said.  “Women and children need social and psychological help to rehabilitate.  It’s  difficult for them to talk about what they’ve been through.  They are scared to ask for outside help because they are afraid they will be found by their abuser.  They are in hiding; almost like a witness protection program.” 

The commitment the Alessi’s put forth is not simply admirable, it saves lives and those who need help, get it. Alessi’s are supported not only by a community, but a nation who sees the need to STOP looking the other way and START getting involved.  Deborah points that violence has a ripple effect that moves through generations.  “People don’t understand why women stay in abusive relationships, she says.  “The truth is they are emotionally blackmailed.  Abusers make women feel they are worthless.  Abusers play mind games with victims making them believe that they are at fault for what happens.  Abusers bully their victims into believing that they cannot make it without them and have no option but to stay.  Women believe it.  They believe they are the cause of the abuse and, they believe they deserve it.”  

 Plastic surgery removes the scars of violence and psychological counseling offers victims the confidence to get out and stay out of violent relationships.  

“We work with several shelters that email us information about women and children they have.  From what  they tell the counselors at the shelters, we determine who is willing to accept our help.  One woman was living in a car with her daughter and we had to get her help immediately,” David explained. 

Face Forward protects, educates and offers victimized women and children a new future. “We want to help every- one,” Deborah stated.  “Unfortunately, we have to be selective of the women we bring to the program because some are not mentally ready to have surgery, or not ready to leave their abusive relationship. Some leave one abusive partner only to move on to another who is also violent.  We look for women who make the commitment to leave their violent partner and are willing to start rebuilding their lives”  

The event offered a platform for the Alessi’s to speak on the dedication of the Face Forward staff who offer services without charge and include: Dr. Ivan Brooks, Dr. Al Jumper, Walid Chaya, 

Moses Sequeira and Shannon Walford.   Approximately 90% of donations go to treatment and recovery.  “Face Forward helps battered women and children rebuild their lives,” said Bradley Smith, Roberto Cavalli store manager.  “We are proud to support Face Forward as they generously give people a second chance at a better life.  This is a very courageous and giving organization.  This proved perfect timing for Roberto Cavalli who started this year making a decision to become involved with local charities.”

Domestic violence occurs every 15 seconds in the United States; about 2.5 million victims a year.  Face Forward partners with communities throughout the U.S. to recognize and respond to women and children affected by violence.  “We want victims to know that nothing is hopeless.  There is help and there are people they can trust and turn to,” Deborah said.  “Now it’s up to each of us to come forward and help.“

For information: (310) 657-2253 
Email: donate@facela.net  
Visit: www.facela.net

Arthur Glosman DDS Cosmetic Dentistry, “It Changed My Entire Life!”

October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Business Highlights

“People complimented me on my looks, but my smile was lacking.  Dr. Arthur Glosman transformed my smile into a work of art in just two visits.  Now I smile everyday!”          —Malkie Lewis

 

My name is Malkie Lewis.  Since I was a little girl, people have complimented me on my smile.  But  as I grew I noticed my smile was getting discolored, had gaps and my teeth were very uneven to say the least.  Being young, I knew I had to do something or face real problems in the next 10 years.  So I decided to check out what could be done, and of course I was worried about everything! 

I chose Dr. Glosman because I had heard about his amazing work and I chose him also for his creditability as a person and a dentist.  He came highly recommended to me from many of his patients.  The first thing that I noticed when we met was how open he was.  He was excited over all of the possibilities that cosmetic dentistry would offer me.  I could tell that he sincerely understood my situation, and I was astonished at how truly genuine and caring he was.  I thought that it would be a long and painful process, but actually it took only two visits, and without any major discomfort whatsoever.  In fact, I was out eating and laughing the very night that I completed my treatment!  

In the end I could not believe how incredibly beautiful the results were, and how natural the whole process was.  I am so unbelievably happy, and smiling is now a whole new kind of joy!  Best of all, it definitely brought my confidence to a whole other level making me feel both transformed and rejuvenated. 

My mother always said, “your smile is your open- ing statement to the world so you want to make sure that it is the best statement you can have!”  Thanks to Dr. Glosman and my new smile,   I am living that statement each and every day.

Arthur Glosman DDS Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
414 N Camden Dr Suite 940  Beverly Hills, CA   (866)940-0343   www.arthurglosmandds.com

Emmys 2009 Alive Expo/ Green Pavilion/ MixMedia Luxury Lounge

October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Editorials

 

Founded and led by Kim Shimmel of MixMedia, LLC she and her partner Patrycja Siewart-Towns have brought to life a brand, entertainment & specialty product placement company offering sponsorship opportunities in film,  television and high-profile events to establish celebrity association for their clients.  MixMedia was the first company to introduce “GREEN” to Hollywood back in 2004 and got the ball rolling on ECO-Luxury Gifting Suite events that now surround the Red Carpet events at the Emmys, Sundance Film Festival and Oscars.  

“Patrycja and I make a terrific team,” Shimmel said.  “She was raised in Poland and has an old world, knowledge of healing remedies.  She started Alive! Expo years ago and came on board MixMedia with 15 years experience in the natural product industry.  We sponsored Al Gore’s “Inconvenient Truth” film at  the Sundance Film Festival years back, and it certainly influenced the direction I took with my company.  Several Gifting Suites are associated with the award shows, but Patrycja and I think of ourselves as more an educational,  interactive event rather than a Gifting Suite.”      

MixMedia/Alive! Expo Green Pavilion caters to small/midsize companies throughout the nation, offering film production, marketing and television know-how to market products.  The 2009 Emmy ALIVE Expo Green Pavilion Luxury Lounge was such an occasion.  The two-day event at the Sofitel Hotel, in L.A. hosted the Best-of-the-Best in eco-friendly products.  The celebrity turnout to support efforts to “Live Green” was overwhelming!  

The event benefitted the non-profits  Project Green and The Creative Coalition’s Art & Soul coffee table book featuring an array of celebrity photos by Pulitzer Prize-winning photo- grapher Brian Smith.  Emmy nominees such as Andy Serkis and Christian Clemenson joined Amy Brenneman, Candice Cameron Bure, Antonio Sabato Jr., Tom Arnold, Daphne Zuniga, Debi Mazar, Andrea Bowen, Michael McGrady (NBC’s Southland) and Sara Rue for the photo shoot.

Guests received fabulous green goods such as Dr. Garth Fisher’s Cellceutical SkinCare, Diamond Nexus (lab generated diamonds and jewels) and spectacular natural products from Aubrey Organics.  The Proposal’s funny guy Oscar Nunez, along with cutie pie Isabella Acres (Better Off Ted), Lorna Scott, Lee Reherman, (Showtime’s Look) Jane Graves, Corey Reynolds, Christina Robinson (Dexter), Kenny Johnston (Saving Grace), and Cassidy Lehrman (Entourage) all stopped by and enjoyed the natural food and drink products, along with all of the wonderful gifts.

No doubt Shimmel and Towns are two powerhouse event promoters, who just happen to not only believe in what they do, but live to support the betterment of the world and all who inhabit it.  They have created several  unprecedented eco-friendly platforms on which hundreds of companies can showcase services and products to thousands of consumers worldwide.

This year’s 2009 Emmy ALIVE Expo Green Pavilion/MixMedia Luxury Lounge sponsors included: Dr. Garth Fisher’s line of skin care products, Cellceutical SkinCare, Whole World Baby with Stacey Martino; Hand Sewn Organic C­­­lothing, Kathleen Kirkwood, Shape Wear; Aubrey Organics, 100% Natural Hair, Body & Skin products; North American Herb & Spice, Oregano Oil; Explorer’s Bounty, Organic & Sustainable Coffee, Tea, Dehydrated Fruit and Chocolate Covered Nuts; Zico, Natural Coconut Water; Tuwa Elements of Earth, Natural Jute Bag; Egg Whites International, Perfect Protein Drink; We Pilates Clothing, Organic Wear for Pilates & Yoga; Dr. Barton Goldsmith, with his book,    

“Emotional Fitness for Couples: 10 Minutes a Day to a Better Relationship” and Michaels Naturopathic Products; Naturopathic Superior Antioxidant Complex; also Diamond Nexus, Lab Generated Diamonds and Jewels; Natural Approach to a Healthy Relation- ship; Red Hair Girl Designs, Green Greeting Cards and Jewelry made from Recycled Materials; Fat Cat Energy Drink, Vitamin Energy Supplement; also LA Limousine; Property Maid, eco friendly cleaning company;  Paws & Claws Pet Company; GotWheatGrass.com, Pure Organic Wheatgrass; AnneMadeArt.com, Recycling Can Be Beautiful; Fuzzy Green Monster, organic eco-friendly children’s apparel; Chews 4 Health; Zrii; and Deepok Chopra’s health drink.

MixMedia strategic partner—Alive! Expo “The Natural Products & Green Living” consumer event showcases companies specializing in natural, organic products, foods and environmental, recyclable green and eco-products for home, family and pets; consumers find naturopathic, alternative practitioners, chiropractors and can purchase premier quality vitamins and supplements, and meet health food retailers and community non-profit organizations.  The Expo is held each year in Atlanta, Georgia. It’s fun and exciting for the entire family.”

“We are not party planners, but many party planners duplicate our events. Patrycja and I not only live a GREEN life, we encourage all individuals to better health, wellness, fitness, environmental and GREEN living with natural, organic, alternative products and solutions, advanced medicine research, education, nutrition, exercise and a clean lifestyle,” said Shimmel. According to Shimmel, especially in today’s  economy, smaller to middle sized businesses need all the help they can get because they may have great services and products, but if they can’t get the attention of consumers they don’t have a chance.  

“We are not party planners, but many party planners duplicate our events.  Patrycja and I not only live a GREEN life, we encourage all individuals to better health, wellness, fitness, environmental and GREEN living with natural, organic, alternative products and solutions, advanced medicine research, education, nutrition, exercise and a clean lifestyle,” said Shimmel.  “We help people grow as entrepreneurs, and then get their businesses to expand,” Shimmel points out.

 “Many people who show- case their amazing services and products at our events go on to become nationally and internationally successful.  It all starts with making sure that consumers see what you have to offer.  As difficult as it is for main-stream companies to make it—it is doubly hard for GREEN companies because GREEN is still a niche product, and the organic, natural ingredients in these products are very expensive to work from.”

Needless to say finding ways to give back to the world is a top priority for Shimmel and Towns.  In keeping with their joint effort to better the world, with Patrycja spearheading, they co-founded the non-profit charity Project GREEN, that will help to preserve GREEN spaces for all future generations.  Project GREEN consists of establishing sleep-away “Back-To-Basics” summer camps for under-privileged children of all ages that will bring them back to the basics such as teaching them how to grow their own food, cook or prepare natural and organic diets.  Another of Shimmel and Towns pet charity projects is appropriately called—Paws & Claws Pet Club—an online membership/social community of pet lovers—with benefits.  The monthly membership includes everything from pet insurance to discount coupons on pet food and health services and products.               

For Information on how to showcase your services and products or become involved 

with one of the other Alive! Expo Green Pavilion/ MixMedia events:  

Mix Media LLC Brand Entertainment

www.mixmediallc.com 

www.aliveexpo.com

www.projectgreenusa.org

www.paws&clawspetclub.com

­

Antonio Sabato Jr.—Cover Story

October 1, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Cover Stories

 

“My Antonio”, —certainly not! 
Antonio Sabato Jr. belongs to millions of women. 

It’s difficult to even imagine that Antonio Sabato Jr. has to rely on his VH1 fab reality hit television show, “My Antonio” (airs Sunday nights at 10:00 PM) to meet women and find true love.  But hey, come on.  Do any of the millions of women watching Sabato each week REALLY want him to meet his Ms. Right?  I think NOT.  In fact, I’m certain that 99% of viewers tune in ONLY to hope that he sends ALL those women home, and that it still leaves the door open for them!

Born in Rome, Italy, his family moved to the United States when he was 12 years old, settled in Los Angeles, and then made their home in Beverly Hills.  The world first caught sight of the Sexiness-of-Sabato when he casually appeared on a sky-high billboard in Times Square and in every other city on the planet—in his underwear and sporting six-pack abs—as a model for Calvin Klein.  Since then, his Hollywood star has risen from super male model to television star on popular soap operas including General Hospital and The Bold and The Beautiful.  He seemed to effortlessly cross over into prime-time with roles on uber-hits such as Melrose Place, Ally McBeal, Charmed and Ugly Betty.  Then hit the big screen where he’s appeared in a long list of movies; one of his favorite, The Big Hit, where he worked with his close friend (and former fellow Calvin Klein underwear model) Mark Wahlberg and Lou Diamond Phillips.

What some may not know is that Sabato quietly parlayed his acting ambitions into behind-the-scenes Executive Producer credits when he formed his own production company Namtab.  He has brilliantly carved out a long-lasting career that now spans more than two decades.  Upcoming more “My An­tonio” of course, and a role on the ABC comedy, Scrubs.  His recent role on the big screen as serial killer in the Indie feature Drifter: The Henry Lee Lucas Story, brought him Best Actor at The 2009 Beverly Hills Film Festival.  Not too bad for a Hollywood youngin’ 37 years old! 

ST:  Your reality television series on VH1 “My Antonio” is a hit.  In addition to being the star you also played your hand behind the scenes as Executive Producer.  Was this your first go-around off camera with the production duties?  How did it go?

ASJ:  “My Antonio” was not my first time producing, I have produced two other movies.  I’m really happy that production went so well.  My co-producers and partners helped out a lot.  We had 150 people in our crew, and our team was awesome.  There were so many things that they had to take care of, and coordinate (motorcycle, boats, helicopters, etc). I was fortunate to have a great team that worked very well together, and that shows through on camera.

Just a moment…let’s get back to his production company Namtab for just a second.  Strange name—but then again maybe not if you’re a Batman fan, and avid Batman memorabilia collector—which Sabato is.  Namtab is really Batman spelled backwards.  I dig it.  Wait, it gets wilder.  By Hollywood standards Sabato seems to fly under the radar when it comes to avoiding much of the high-tech, drama dude thing in his personal life; no Hollywood bad boy antics, no high speed police arrests no drinking or smoking.  But he is a health food fanatic, exercise maniac (exercises one hour a day at Team Platinum Gynastics in Simi Valley) and most agree a street smart, business savvy and, most definitely a gentleman kid-of-guy who probably helps little old ladies cross the street. Digging deeper the momentum picks up dramatically as his need for speed and thrills rears it ugly head.  In “My Antonio” he runs the women ragged through a maze of every physical sport most women hate.  But it doesn’t all stop when the filming ends.  OH NO.  When not in full-on concentration movie-mode, Sabato, an experienced horse-man with a love for the out- doors is either roaring round town on his custom made Batman Harley, behind the wheel of a race car, or sky diving.  In other words… engaging in an array of dangerous sports that most likely  would keep any mother up at night and worried about.  Suddenly it all makes sense—meaning his appearance on the NBC competition show Celebrity Circus last year where he walked away with the winners trophy performing high-wire, dangerous and intricate circus acts. Afterwards, he announced that winning the competition meant even more to him  because his mother and grandfather both had been in the circus.  His father is Italian film star Antonio Sabato Sr.  After all these years in the public eye to Sabato ‘heartthrob” is just part of the job.  A small part.

ST:  Beautiful women complain all the time that people can’t get past their beauty to the person they truly are.  Is it the same for good-looking men?  Do people get past what you look like to find the person you really are?

ASJ: I try not to pay attention to the way I look, but I take compliments very well.  I don’t concentrate on how people respond to my good looks, I concentrate on my role as a good father.  None of us should determine how we act by looks alone.  We should take the time to know another person.

No doubt, Sabato takes work seriously, but his role as a single, hands-on father to his two children is his priority.  Son Jack Antonio, age 15 is from a years long relationship with actress Virginia Madsen, and daughter Mina Bree, age 6 is by former longtime girlfriend Kristin Rosetti.  Sabato was married once, briefly during the 90s to Alicia Tully Jensen (he was 18 years old) and we are talking briefly—the marriage lasted a matter of months.  But now it seems Jensen didn’t feel that the first time around was enough.  She has showed up on “My Antonio” in full get-my-man-back attitude to compete with the other female contestants to win “the man”.  A Richter scale surprise for Sabato who hadn’t seen Jensen in 20 years.  And not to be left out of the show that is—probably the most important woman in Sabato’s life or any man’s life for than matter—his mother Yvonne, who shows up to give her no-or-go on female contestants. A former mother-in-law and daughter-in-law in the same vicinity?  Now that’s what I call a true reality TV scenario.  

ST: “MY Antonio” life looks pretty easy, but what’s it really like working on a weekly television series, then off to movie sets, and being a single parent.  Any time for R & R?  What do you do and where do you do it?

ASJ: My career and being a dad really take up most of my time.  I wouldn’t call it R&R, but I take working out and staying healthy very seriously.  I also like to play with my favorite toy, the motorcycle.  During the time I have off I like to take my family some where tropical, and we recently went to Hawaii.  And because I’m from Italy we try to visit once a year. 

With all the making of a Hollywood movie set it’s surreal that this stay-at-home and watch-TV-with-the-kids kinda guy is a hotter than hell bonafide movie star with what else; a dating show?  And when taping ends he does indeed go home, watch TV with the kids and is bed by 9 PM most nights.  Why not just follow this guy around with a camera and film his real, real life?  Sabato has managed to forgo the Hollywood crazy life for a slice of the good life.  No entourage that is unless you count kids, horses, dogs and a lot of very expensive, high voltage toys.

ST: Ordinary people see stardom as an amazing life.  Money, fame, fans and perks.  Is being a “star” all it’s cracked up to be?  Ever thought of a life not in the public eye?  What would you do?  

ASJ: You have to love your job for the most part and have to be humble.  You have to be positive within yourself.  I focus on what I have today, how blessed I am and try to be a better person the next day.  It’s important to love what you do, but I try not to be in the limelight if it’s not for work.  My life and home are very private.  I keep my kids, family, and friends private and away from the limelight. If I wasn’t an actor I would work with kids and teenagers. Whether it was physical training, or guiding them spiritually and mentally.  I love kids and love being around them.   

Dr. Osep Armagan: Is Your “Health Routine” Helping or Killing You?

October 1, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Business Highlights

 

 

 

Dr. Osep Armagan is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon. For 15-years he has helped hundreds of people suffering from injury and disease regain their health.  Specialty trained in all aspects of Sports Medicine, Foot & Ankle Disorders and Bone & Joint Disease. Besides his private practice, he serves as team physician for High School, Collegiate & Professional Athletic Programs.

 

Jogging, weight-lifting, sports, hand- fuls of vitamin & health supplements and reading, I-never-want-to-get-old research doesn’t seem to get the job done for the 40-70 crowd these days.  Sure, there are some who fly under the radar and say they feel 20 when they’re 70, but for the majority of us stress, no regular exercise program, non-stop schedules, iffy eating habits and over- work have taken a toll.  What didn’t bother us at 30 is kicking our butts now.    I spoke to one of the premier Sports Medicine and Orthopedic surgeons in LA., Dr. Osep Armagan for answers.

CHRONIC BODY PAIN

ST: Everyone I know suffers with a painful body part.  It seems the more we Baby Boomers exercise and try to get healthy…the more we are NOT.   

OA:  Joint, hip, hand, elbow, knee, spine, neck, foot, ankle, shoulder pain; it’s all caused by one thing; Wear and tear arthritis. And there’s no escaping it the older we get.  The source of a patient’s pain and joint immobility is always exercise-related or age-related and both occur after years of bone, joint and muscle abuse brought on with continual pressure on the cartilage of a joint.  Torn pieces of cartilage fill with scar tissue and the joint begins to deteriorate.  These ‘unseen injuries’ go on silently for years building up until they start causing pain and immobility.

SYMPTOMS NOT TO IGNORE

NECK: The majority of neck problems are caused by wear and tear on the cervical spine and as we age they become painful.  Unfortunately, most are a normal part of aging.  Neck move- ment builds neck strength which both   posture and over-all body alignment.

SPINE: Disc disease is caused by stress and strain.  Scar tissue develops causing connective tissue holding the discs to lose their ability to absorb shock for the spine.  Unfortunately, no medication exists that will cure neck and back pain. there are medications, however, that will bring down inflammation that will help with pain. Physical Therapy, injections or surgery are options.

HIP: Symptoms of a degenerative hip joint start with pain as you bear down.  A limp takes pressure off the hip, but soon range of motion is affected and people find it very painful and almost impossible to walk.  Hip joint bones are covered and protected by cartilage and a lining that produces a lubricant that offers easy motion, strength and elasticity for movement.  Hip replace- ment surgery isn’t necessary for every- one.  Blood tests and X-rays determine cause and amount of degeneration.  

SHOULDER, WRIST, HAND, FINGERS:  Arthritis is the culprit behind shoulder,  wrist, hand, finger pain, immobility and degeneration.  Age, injury, heredity and stress also play a part.  The outcome damages cartilage, impairs movement, causes stiffness, pain, loss of motion mobility and inflammation that affects surrounding tendons and muscles.  X-rays pinpoint joint damage, and detail the amount of cartilage left in the joint.    

 

EXERCISE: SOLUTION OR CAUSE for WEEKEND WARRIORS

ST: What part does exercise play in body, bone and joint deterioration?

OA: Everything!  As we get older we have to exercise to get ready to exercise, and few people do it.  A good portion of my patients tend to be Weekend  Warriors.  They go from zero to 100; go out and jump into exercise and 

don’t bother to warm up or do any strength or stretching to prepare for the muscle overuse and repetitive exercise.  They end up worse than when they started.  Here are a few  simple guide- lines to make certain that your exercise routine adds—not limits your ongoing health.

1.  Stretch your muscles before you start any exercise no matter what it is (golf, tennis, jogging, swimming, weight- lifting, basketball—you get the idea).     

2.  Joggers:  No more than 5 miles a day.

Best are Elliptical and Nautilus machines on which there is no trauma to joints.  A three-day a week exercise plan can incorporate both aerobic for burning calories  and weight-training for toning.

3.  NO FREE WEIGHTS.  Free weights stress your heart more than Elliptical and Nautilus machines.  The draw back to free weights as you age is if you have Coronary Artery Disease, free weights can lead to a heart attack or stroke.    

4.  Have a pre-exercise screening physical to determine how much plaque you have in your heart.  Signs that you are over- stressing your heart during exercise include, shortness of breath, severe pain in the chest and palpitations.  STOP.  This does not include rehabilitation exercises.  Check with your physician.

5.  Stick to food for your nutrients.  A one-a-day multi-vitamin does best.  No medical evidence exists that handfuls of vitamins, supplements or any joint rehabilitation drinks make a difference.  Some people say they do, others taking the same supplements—say they don’t.      

Osep E. Armagan, M.D.

Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgery

805.501.9466

For Information or Questions:

Email: oseparmagan@ymail.com 

 

Defining Beauty With Robert Moran

October 1, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times  
Filed under Editorials

 

THIS SEASONS HOTTEST HAIR COLORS & MAKEUP

 

BRUNETTES

Deep, rich, and sexy “mochas” are  amazing for creating sultry  and fabulous dramatic looks  on our favorite celeb brunettes and the models that we see on the runways.  Look closely and you can easily see the subtle blocks of gentle light and golden strands of color  mixed in with  ultra deep rich blends of dark and  medium browns that together give an ultra  dimension to the longer hairstyles.  This trend can also be adapted for a more  edgier look as well.  Notice Toni Braxton, Anne Hathaway, or Katie Holmes, Megan Fox and Brooke Shields, or Eva Longoria,   Catherine Zeta Jones and Jessica Alba —all stunning brunettes with cutting-edge mocha shades—in long and short styles.  

BLONDES

Soft and natural, or pale and stunning; OUT for this season  bling-bling blondes that look outdated.  IN are sexy, solid colors for a very young-looking and sophisticated woman who is  sporting one of the shorter cuts we are seeing; or lets take a look at the full range of natural looking  blondes that blend a rain- bow of color for their longer styles. Think Ivanka Trump  or the ultra stylish Jenny McCarthy and, of course there is Reese Witherspoon, Sharon Stone, Sarah Jessica Parker, Nicole Richie, Sienna Miller and Taylor Swift.   

RED HEADS

The color RED, and what a variety of reds there are— is simply perfect for this Fall.  Celebrities, models and tons of salon clients are going all out to stand out this season and are choosing from stunning shades of red to do it.  The key to the ultimate in red hair is using a red hair color that combines the exact ingredients of non-brassy, high-definition, sophistication, and durability.  Fabulous red heads are Debra Messing, Marcia Cross and certainly Julia Roberts who each take great time and effort to constantly update their red locks with various soft brown and subtle blonde highlights.  

I love to see texture, length and vibrant color.  Done the right way and on the right skin tone, they work for all fashion occasions. Soft, flowing waves and natural curls incorporate a sexy, dramatic look.  

MAKEUP                                    
Mineral Eyedust, RM Cosmetics 

incorporate the high- est of pigment eye shadows, lush and shimmering, vibrant colors— right off runway collections that offer clients  customized complimenting, lip colors.  Each item can easily be applied as subtly or dramatically as desired to highlight facial features.  FALL COLORS: Emerald City, Plum,  Onyx, Pizzazz, Shiny Gold, Deep Sea, Burnt Copper, Chocolate, & Plumberry.

RM Cosmetics Powder Blush is translucent and compliments any skin tone. Dark Rose, Tulip, Pink Brown, Camel.

Hot RM Lipstick Colors: Ruby Rust, Oh So Red, Sparklingwine and Marvelous.

RM Lip Gloss: Butter rum, Pomegranate, Angel Kiss, Pout,  Precious, Couture, and Allure.

RM Eye Paints/Liner: Eggplant, Bronze, Ultra Violet, Peacock.  

RM Lip Liner: Wine,  Cherry, Pink Mauve, Warm Brandy, and Rust.

By Robert Moran

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