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November 2010

PUBLISHER, EDITOR IN CHIEFPrather Jackson

VICE PRESIDENTBernice Harris

OPERATIONSErskine D. McSwain(1991-2000)

VP MARKETINGMichael D. Coxson

VICE PRESIDENT OF INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS Parandis Khalili

ASSOCIATE EDITORAnthony Calderon

DIR. OF MARKETINGLauny Rhem

LIFESTYLE EDITORNiki Shadrow

SENIOR EDITORPamela Spyrs

CREATIVE DIRECTORAutumn Hawarden

DISTRIBUTORNEWSWAYS

STAFF WRITERToria Gaylord

ASSISTANT EDITORJenny Werth

WEBMASTERAutumn Hawarden

PHOTOGRAPHYIrwin Jazmines

PRODUCTION MANAGERHector Santacruz

CONTRIBUTORSAnthony CalderonLeah Michele YanantonSarah KlegmanAdam Freeman PockrossRachel StuhlerLeah YanantonRayne SielingSteve ZallSid FishLauren Selman Zoi Patra

Hollywood Weekly is a monthly publication wholly owned by Jackson Publishing Company. ©2010 All Rights Reserved. Re-production of any content without written permission of the Publisher is expressly prohibited. Letters to the Editor may be sent to: Hollywood Weekly, 4221 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 290-06, Los Angeles, CA 90010.

CONTENTS

ON THE COVER:

Email: editor@jacksonpublishing.com. For Advertising inquiries call: (323) 934-6397

or Online at: www.hollywoodweekly.net

Heather Locklear and daughter Ava Sambora with Mikey Koffman

COVER08 L.A. Fashion Weekend at Sunset Gower Studios

ENTERTAINMENT21 Melissa Anne Smed Not Just A Small Town Girl

25 Cat Limket Down Home Charm

38 La Theatre Beat Down Home Charm

FASHION14 Valiant Mastermind Behind La Fashion Weekend Mikey Koffman

19 Red Carpet Ready Singer Christina Milian

ARTICLES28 Voda Spa A Creative Synthesis for the New Century

32 Giving Thanks for Globalization Dr. Laura Wilhelm

34 RUNGLISH Is a Multi-Cultural Hit

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JENNy WERTH Editor

Editor’s Note November 2010

Somehow summer arrived quite late to LA this year... it’s been in the 80s and 90s in October and November while the actual summer months were quite mild. That’s just one reason it was such a delight to see some fabulous spring fashions saunter down the catwalk during the Los Angeles Fashion Weekend held at the legendary Sunset Gower Studios in Hollywood. Plus, now that it’s beach weather, I have some bikini fashions that will help me remember why it is I can’t gain 10 pounds over the holidays! Enjoy yourselves at you get a sneak peek at some of LA’s most talented designer’s fashions. Plus, get ready for a one-on-one exclusive interview with fash-ion weekend’s producer, Mikey Koffman. It was quite the star-studded event! Enjoy!

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FASHION

Written By Jenny Werth

Mikey koffMan Produced the thrilling fashion show with its usual incredible style!

Bikinis made out of

real water bottles, handmade

fashions using natural or re-

cycled materials, bold prints

and edgy styles captivated the

sizzling cat walk during L.A.

Fashion Weekend october 15-

17 at Sunset Gower Studios in

Hollywood. The producer of the show, The Real

L Word’s Mikey Koffman welcomed the celeb-filled, fashion-forward bash that started with a

Written By Jenny Werth

CapTuREs WORld-WidE aTTENTiON!

at sunset gower studiosat sunset gower studiosL.A. FasHiON WEEkENd

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sexy performance by singer Christina Milian, who also debuted her innova-tive line of sunglasses. In a mat-ter of moments, a palpable electricity filled the air as pieces of glittery pa-per showered down on the audience and the first model strutted down the cat walk. Fashion lovers watched with anticipation as bikini-clad bodies de-buted swimwear lines by a.Che, Kooey and teeki.

Friday evening’s first show, ‘SWIM at LA Fashion Weekend,’ commenced with the eclectic line by a.Che. The showcase gave the audience their first peek at the gorgeous models that commanded the catwalk all weekend, complete with beautiful makeup by David Klasfeld and Katie Pellegrino of Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics and many whimsical curly, long hair looks thanks to Ginger Boyle and Dean Roybal of Planet Salon. a.Che’s col-lection thrilled the audience with two piece bikinis and bright colored one piece suits, animal prints with match-ing head pieces, along with some bold black and maroon suits. www.acheswimwear.com.

Next up was teeki who surprised the audience by sending a beauti-ful 8-year-old blonde show-stopper down the runway! Teeki’s bikinis are truly amazing as they’re made out of

real water bottles. Designer Lindsay Hemric says it took trial and error to find out that recycled water bottles

work perfectly. She says she gave bamboo a shot first, but found the fabric was too flexible while the water bottle bikinis don’t sag when they get wet. The designs are fun and easy to mix and match. Bottoms and tops are $50 each. www.teekilove.com

The final catwalk of the day by Kooey heated up the runway by starting the show off with a few en-thralling men banging on drums! The Australian-landscape inspired swim-suits were made of vivid bright colors, combining orange, whites and plums. The line offered high waist styles, two piece bikinis and sultry one pieces along with lovely cover-ups. Kooey also featured clothing for men, such as comfy, yet stylish and hot white pants. It never fails to amaze that a brand such as Kooey can make ‘grandma-style’ high-waisted bottoms look captivating! www.kooey.com

Off the catwalk, attendees min-gled each day before and after the shows in a beautifully decorated party lounge decorated by HStudio and filled with bottomless cocktails from the open bar courtesy of Domenico Winery, 360 Vodka, Six Rivers Brewery, Tequila Mar Azul, Vita Coco Coconut Water and Premier Label Water Company. Party-goers also munched on delicious hors’d’oeuvres from

White Trash Beautiful design team of Richie sambora and Nikki lund

White Trash Beautiful design team of Richie sambora and Nikki lund. and Terri Melkonian, Vice president of sales & Marketing at sunset Gower studios

CapTuREs WORld-WidE aTTENTiON!

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L.A. Fashion Weekend redcarPet

singer and television host kimberly Caldwell

Tatiana ali

actress Charlotte Ross on the Red Carpet of la Fashion Weekend.

Heather locklear and daughter ava sambora who walked the runway in dad Richie’s White Trash Beautiful designs.

singer Christina Milian introduced her eye-wear line at the show

ken davitian from Borat and Get smart

actress Brenda strong and White Trash Beautiful designer Nikki lund.

ava sambora who walked the runway in dad Richie’s White Trash Beautiful designs.

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Crustacean Beverly Hills. Also in the lounge were pop-up boutiques such as Morning Glory Jewelry by Melanie Howitt. Her jewelry designs include recycled ma-terials from wire, vintage beads and an-tique chandelier crystals to scrap met-al. www.mornglorycreations.com Also featured were the original designs such as studded snake bracelets by Wishcraft jewelry by Joanna Settoo, and the Mia Milano Collection. Creative T-shirts and baseball caps were screen printed on the spot by Matt Geiger’s FSP Designs. They are a printing, manufacturing, design and promotional company that create one-of-a-kind items including business cards, key chains and decals. info@naturesmistake.net The evening wrapped up with a fabulous after-party at Crustacean Beverly Hills. The vibe at Crustacean was lively while party goers and models brushed elbows in the famous restaurant. www.houseofan.com

Day two of L.A. Fashion Weekend had the crowds in eager anticipation during ‘The Green Initiative Humanitarian Fashion Show’ sponsored by the Green Youth Movement (GYM). An inspiring line-up of some fabulous ‘eco-friendly’ sleek silhouettes, intricate designs and swirls of colors commanded the catwalk. The fashions featured for Spring/Summer 2011 included Kristinit, jonano, KeoKjay and Emily Factor. An inspiring video by GYM started off the killer show. The video explains that the movement’s mis-sion is to not only educate kids on eco-conscious living, but to also have the

children of today learn how to make a “green” world second-nature for them. It’s an essential message that strongly resonates with Mikey Koffman’s goal at her full service marketing and event pro-duction company, The Gallery LA; as well

as with many of the ‘green’ attendees in the audience.

Starting off the show were the or-ganic fabric designs by Kristinit. The collection by designer Kristina Lenss was both glamorous and casual with a feminine flair. Many free-flowing dresses along with lovely pant and top outfits graced the runway. “(I like to) bring out the natural beauty of women… sen-suality and nature,” Kristina said. She added that her collection was a working wardrobe with lots of pieces that can be mixed and matched. www.kristinit.com

Next up was KeoKjay by 24-year-old designer Rachel Faller. The line is both sexy and sweet. Lovely neutral shades including nudes, grays, creams, black and a pop of color with bright orange accents cruised the catwalk. KeoKjay is an environmentally friendly, fair trade so-cial enterprise that employs HIV-positive Cambodian women to make uniquely de-signed clothing. www.keokjay.org

Following were the genius designs of jonano by Scandinavian eco-designer Bonnie Sefers. The collection also fea-tured hues of nudes and greys, some cool and comfy cotton sweatsuits, along with some whimsical pale pink dresses – a joy to watch indeed. www.jonano.com

Ending the show was Emily Factor who uses only organic and eco-friendly fabrics and production practices. Her col-lection was just dazzling with a rustic red-

Right to left is Terri Melkonian, Vice president of sales and Marketing of sunset Gower + Bronson Studios: Chris Barton, Executive Vice President of Hudson Pacific properties (parent company of the studios), Betty Flores Executive assistant to CEO of Hudson Pacific Properties.

Elizabeth an and Mikey koffman

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and-orange-colored print featured on numerous romantically flowing dresses and skirts. The designer also showcased a magical collection of sheer fabrics, floral prints, elaborate ruffles and sleek profiles. www.emilyfactor.com As a repeat to the Friday and Sunday night festivities was the Saturday evening after-party held again at Crustacean Beverly Hills. Fashion-savvy party-goers munched on scrumptious appetiz-ers and sipped on martinis while glancing around the crowd to spot any VIPS.

L.A. Fashion Weekend’s finale featured White Trash Beautiful by Richie Sambora and Nikki Lund. The col-lection show of Spring 2011 was the most well-attended, celebrity-studded event of the weekend, perhaps because fashion-savvy attendees were keyed up to watch Heather Locklear and Sambora’s 13-year-old daughter, Ava walk the show. The White Trash Beautiful collection featured light colors and bold prints, long flowy dresses, floral tunics and sharp black designs. The audience watched on eagerly as the gorgeous models (who owned the catwalk all weekend) showed off each outfit’s detail-oriented designs.

Among the celebrities in attendance were Heather Locklear, Richie Sambora, Mikey Koffman, Raquel Castaneda, Christina Milian, Bridget Marquard, Kimberly Caldwell, Natasha Henstridge, Tatyana Ali, Janet Montgomery, Jodi Sweetin, Naturi Naughton, Kimberly Quinn, Brenda Strong and Charlotte Ross. In must be noted that the fashion-forward weekend couldn’t have run as smoothly as it did without the tireless help of Terri Melkonian from Sunset Gower Studios, music from DJ Dominic Carter and stylists, Kelly Williams and Jessica Loria. Now it’s just a matter of waiting for the next extravaganza at the legendary Sunset Gower Studios. And we can’t wait!

Nikki lund trying the appetizers served by Crustacean restaurant from Beverly Hills

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ava sambora modeling a design by White Trash Beautiful

la Fashion Weekend held outside of sunset Gower’s stage 7.

White Trash Beautiful design

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Mikey Koffman is ensuring that Los Angeles’ talented fashion designers will continue to be an essential part of the celebrated fashion week line-ups that light up star-studded catwalks in cosmopolitan cities throughout the world.

Her incredible fashion influence has quickly diverted fashionista’s experienced eyes directly to the West Coast; specifically Los Angeles where fashion columnists, their loyal fashion-savvy apprentices and a fashion-forward audi-ence has been taking notice! Hollywood not only gives birth to a mind-blowing number of blockbuster movies; but also holds an imperative influence on amazing fashions. Indeed, Hollywood has a history of debuting fashion-state-ments with the star-studded extravaganza that’s called the red carpet. But now, the newest “IT” fashion trends have become increasingly influential on the Los Angeles fash-ion weekend’s (LAFW) catwalk. During the October 15th to 17th LAFW show held at the acclaimed Sunset Gower Studios in Hollywood, each model’s sultry strut down the catwalk had most of the packed audience jotting down the newest “must-have” items for their closets. And they have Mikey to thank.

Like most of Tinseltown’s remarkable “real life sto-ries;” Mikey wanted to be a cop when she was growing up. She certainly had enough practice; she played with G.I. Joe action figures as a child; protected the kids in her school who were being teased by bullies; survived the relentless violence of the LA projects where she was raised and, naturally, became a marksman by the age of ten. Well, a ‘markswoman.’

This being said, it’s really no surprise that this fierce-ly independent and self-proclaimed “bad-ass” became the producer of Los Angeles Fashion Weekend. It’s also not a shocker that Mikey’s full service marketing and produc-tion company called The Gallery LA has flourished since she opened it in 2005. Naturally, she had no hesitation

launching LA Fashion Weekend at the legendary Sunset Gower Studios. And by doing so, she’s ultimately created a whole new genius of fashion acclaim and recognition in Los Angeles. But, Mikey, 35, had extensive experience and the one thing essential for growing into a success in this “cutthroat” town: determination.

“After completing LA fashion week events under Smashbox for years, it was important for me to keep the event going when they left this market,” recalls Mikey.

Indeed, Mikey is NOT one to ‘give up.’ So, after Smashbox studios ended the Mercedes Benz LA fashion week that she had helped establish and produce for many years, she recalls, “at that point I knew I had to keep it going…. and I felt like the only person who could make it work… (who had) the tenacity and balls to do it was myself.”

Lucky for us, it is simply in her blood to create as-tounding fashion shows that leave our eyes staring at the catwalk. “It’s like having a baby,” she says of producing LA fashion weekend. One ‘baby’ she doesn’t intend on letting go. Clearly, simply ‘stopping’ the shows was not in Mikey’s plans. Instead, she took the reins in her capable hands and moved the high profile event to the Sunset Gower Studios in Hollywood creating what’s become an LA spectacle- both for the fashion attendees and the energized media.

But then again, it’s not surprising that someone as unique and strong-minded as Mikey has come out on top. She’s constructed her life a lot like her prized Harley Davidson Mortorcycle; piece by thoughtful piece. She gained enough knowledge and experience to create her own flourishing company and revolutionize LA’s spot in the ever-extraordinary world of fashion. With an amazing work ethic, she’s created a mini-empire by following her heart and branching off on her own.

And while doing so, Mikey’s found her freedom from a childhood filled with the insecurity that comes from living in a very tough neighborhood. What sometimes destroys one person can catapult another into great success. THIS is the story of Mikey Koffman. She recalls there was a lot of violence where she grew up. She explains that, “having had that experience, I got the drive to never want to go there again.” The once ambitious girl who literally put out fires from discarded Christmas trees in her neighborhood, has created her own flame throughout Los Angeles and the

tHE VALiANt MasTERMiNd BEHiNd LA FASHION WEEKENDMikey Koffman Written By Jenny Werth

L.A. Fashion Weekend at Sunset Gower Studios

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tHE VALiANt MasTERMiNd BEHiNd LA FASHION WEEKEND

world. The smoke from her personal fire is powerful. In fact it’s almost surreal.

And it doesn’t stop there. From Mikey’s debut on the hit-reality show The Real L Word to her sup-port of multiple foundations such as numerous eco-conscious fashion design-ers and groups to cancer foundations, she’s rapidly becoming Hollywood’s “IT” girl. Sunset Gower’s VP of Marketing, Terri Melkonian, sums it up beautifully. “Mikey’s very charismatic… there’s something from within that draws people to her. She’s very comfortable with who she is and she exudes that.” Her qualities are amazing; she’s honor-able and has an amazing work ethic – just fantastic to work with.” Without question, since Mikey started the first LAFW only three-years-ago, it’s grown into a red-carpet spectacle packed with tons of sup-porting celebrities, A-listers and VIPS. This year’s LAFW show was yet another hit in what promises to be a long career in producing memo-

rable fashion shows. Much to the audience’s delight, the show opened with a fantastic performance by Christina Milian on Friday. And every day during the exciting LAFW was filled with amazing fashions shows by some of LA’s most talented and eco-friendly activists. The weekend ended with Richie Sambora and Nikki Lund’s White Trash Beautiful fashion show collection on Sunday evening where his daughter, Ava strutted the cat walk! Plus, this year LAFW proudly had its first auto sponsor: Chevy’s Electric car, VOLT. Chevy’s exciting new electronic car, VOLT, could be seen zipping around Sunset Gower’s lot for attendees’ to test. The VOLT even goes up to 50-miles on only electric-ity! Naturally, the VOLT’S ‘eco-friendly’ message supported the LA fashion week’s crucial concept to ‘Go Green,’ and its proud Green Youth Movement Sponsor (GYM).

Mikey feels “blessed” to be part of something as creative and popular as LAFW. But, it’s all par for the course for Mikey- she keeps things fresh and exciting through her various accomplishments. Let it be known that she will not be returning for the second season of The Real L Word as she’s learned the hard way that people can edit scenes to suggest she was saying or doing things that she did not. She will be sorely missed. But without the show, she will have more free time to do what she does best: create. Create and move forward. She may be a “bad-ass” but if that’s so, then let it be noted that she’s one unique bad-ass wrapped up in sweetness, humility and honesty. Three unusual words to describe a rising star in a town where people tend to lose themselves before they’ve even arrived. Fortunately for fashion-lovers and reality-TV-show enthusiasts, Mikey has a firm grasp on herself and her intentions. We just have to wait and see what she creates next. But, there is a bit of gossip… first up, she’s turning LA Fashion Weekend into LA Fashion Week at Sunset Gower Studios from March 13th through the 19th at Sunset Gower Studios. The week long event will encompass a killer kick off affair and end with a LA Fashion Week Awards Ceremony! And keep your eyes on KTLA 5, her broadcast partner for LA Fashion Week. After hosting on air fashion segments during LA Fashion Week, one never knows when Mikey will pop up on the air again. The only thing certain is that we’ll be seeing a lot more of her very soon.

For more information on The Gallery LA please visit thegalleryla.com

Keeokjay designs

Beth Talbert Test driving Volt

The Chevy Volt

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la fashion weekend’s Friday Night’s Swimwear Show

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la fashion weekend’s Friday Night’s Swimwear Show

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White Trash Beautiful design

Jonano design

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Mini-KittOur MAKEup BAg $200.

OBsEssivE COMpulsivE COsMEtiCs “lip tAr.”

Opi nAil pOlishEs

BEtsEy JOhnsOn twEEzErs

red carPet rEADy

nApOlE

An pEr

dis lip

& EyE

linErs

Singer and actress Christina Milian who opened Los Angeles Fashion Weekend with a dazzling performance and launched her own sunglass line at the event tells us how she gets ‘red car-pet ready!’ Here, you’ll find an inside look at some of Christina’s fave products, along with similar products that are more affordable! So, if you’re looking for a new “look” then go to your mirror and try some of these fab products! Keeping in mind, of course, that the most impor-tant rule for a gorgeous face is a smile!

Christina really likes ‘lip tar’ by Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics. The one she wore for her opening performance was ‘Memento Lip Tar’ with ‘Clear Lip Tar’ on top. She says one little dab of the gloss fills your whole lips. “And lately I’ve been doing color, and I’ve found that it has been a way of expressing myself and adding a pop of color to my outfits.” In fact, she thinks the lip tar is “almost like a can of paint in a

little tube.” $12.50 www.occmakeup.com

napoleon perdis high

precision lip liner is a true treat for the

lips, the ideal partner to either a full coverage lip-

stick or a shiny gloss. Pro-tip for using a lip liner: apply liner after-not before-you apply lipstick. The liner will glide on smoothly, leaving a more natural outline, and still prevent the col-or from bleeding. Their remark-able lip liners and exqusite eye liners. $18 at Ulta Stores and napoleonperdis.com

Christina’s a fan of Chanel eye shadow. She especially favors the brown tones that go deep into the crease of the eye. Her per-fect Chanel palate is one of peach, brown, champagne and beige. But, she

also likes Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetic’s

eye shadows as well. The colors used on her at LAFW opening per-formance were a gorgeous blend of Dope and Brasstacks Loose Colour Concentrates. The Dope was used on Christina’s lid and blended into the crease where it was mixed with Brasstracks for a darker, smokier look. Loose Colour $12.50 www.occmakeup.com

Christina’s a fan of extensions, especially when she’s going out and wants a really full ‘wild’ look. She also likes products that add a bit of body such as Redken products. Plus, her sis-ter just introduced to Moroccan Oil. She says it gave her hair a nice shine but didn’t weigh it down.

*Another amazing hair product for shine

and manageability is Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Spray. It’s a light oil that heals, shines and protects your hair and offers a frizz-free finish! $24 www.macadamiahair.com

hidE And glOw ChEEK

MACAdAMiA hEAling Oil sprAy

*For a most affordable lip-gloss try Hard Candy’s Plexi Gloss, Glossy Lip Shine $5 www.walmart.com

Like the rest of the planet, Christina likes OPI nail polishes. She says the blue from the Shrek col-lection looks i n c r e d i b l e on her nails. Plus she says “there’s a can-dy apple red

that’s really sexy.” www . u l t a . c o m prices vary

CHEEKS: Christina likes using rosy colors on her cheeks. A favorite of hers is MAC’s Chesnut blush.

*For a more af-fordable option try Hard Candy’s Hide and Glow Cheek, duo cheek stick. $7 www.walmart.com

Every Woman’s Must-Have!

*Betsey Johnson Tweezers- Fashion Icon Betsey Johnson partnered with Tweezerman to cre-ate some killer designs on every woman’s must-have item! Think roses and skulls. Designer Series Slant Tweezer Collection www.sephora.com $25 each.

Every Woman’s Must-Have!

*Jet Setter Deluxe Travel Train Case- This is the only cosmetics case any woman should use while traveling! The high-end travel kit just makes sense; it contains empty bottles, jars, and more for you to transfer your favorite products into that are all airline security approved. Say goodbye to throwing out any of your favorite products be-cause airline security say their bottles are “too large” for carry-on luggage! Plus, it’s a per-fectly fashionable and functional cosmetic case that even comes with dual-sided brushes for all your beauty items. The perfect carry-on case for each woman’s important beauty products! $200 www.minikittour.com

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TALENT

aCTREss MElissa aNNE sMEd NOT JusT a sMall TOWN GiRlphoto Credit: Henry Czuprinski

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8960 Cynthia St. #116West Hollywood, CA 90069

3 1 0 . 2 7 8 . 9 4 2 2 6 1 9 . 8 7 1 . 9 4 2 2

“One Call Does It All”

R e a l t o r

Jenny Werth

CROESUS REALTY

Simply being “noticed” does happen to some famous actors and models. We all have heard of the stories where people get “discovered” eating an ice cream cone in a nonchalant way, walking down the sidewalk, browsing the aisles of your local supermarket, or just sitting on a park bench. And while, this may seem like the ideal way to go about a career in the industry I can also think of so many other stories of people living out of their cars and eating at soup kitchens all across L.A., and NYC who came hop-ing to strike it big just by being “noticed”. The reality is however, that the much more efficient way of getting there is by having a backup plan. Just like you would backup the hard-drive on your computer or your impractical college degree – why wouldn’t you want a backup plan in life?

Melissa Anne Smed has the idea. Born November 11, 1987 in Waukon, Iowa, Melissa graduated from graduate school in Minnesota with a Masters degree in acupuncture. However, always loving the spotlight, Melissa has long had dreams of one day being able to be a famous actress. She recalls many high school plays and com-munity theater opportunities she was given at as young as 6 years old. “I grew up in a really small town” Melissa says, “and because it was so small we didn’t have the same opportunities available to us that you would in a city. But my parents were great. They sup-ported me in everything, if I wanted to take up playing the violin or vocal lessons they would find ways for me to accomplish this. As they did with acting, my mother used to ask around to my aunt and older cousins to see if there was an opportunity for me to be in the upcoming high school musical or the community play. If there was she would make sure she was available to drive me to all of the practices, help me with my costumes, and just generally sup-port me.” This love of theater continued and Melissa was actively involved in drama as a junior high school and high school student. She says, “I did every play possible. I was in Oklahoma, Grease, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, MASH, The Sound of Music, as well as so many more and I loved every second of it.” She continues, “When I’m acting, I feel like I’m complete, like I am free, and truly happy. I feel like it helps me complete a piece of the puzzle. I don’t know how to explain it. Since I’m from a small town, we didn’t have a big drama club, we had two productions a year. But, we did have speech, and I was able to fulfill my need for acting off season by participating in and winning many monologue contests.” Melissa is a true thespian.

As for now, Melissa is talking with various agencies looking at getting signed, and says acting is her long term career goal. She also has just auditioned for an upcoming sitcom and continues to do print work. She says “This is my lifelong dream, but I know that having a college degree is good for me because it gives me something to fall back on.”

Melissa continues, “Acting is a way for me to creatively and passionately express myself, and it helps me deal with the day to day hustle and bustle of life. I enjoy reading scripts and develop-ing the character. I am and have always been a huge nerd. I love reading fiction or non-fiction, it doesn’t matter. But, I think my love of books has contributed to my love of acting as well.” When I ask her who her favorite author is she replies, “Kurt Vonnegut.” She is cerebral and curious, and yet these are the traits that make Christina Ricci and Natalie Portman so intriguing. When I ask her about moving to L.A. she says, “I know I have to make the move soon and I am taking my dog Jimi with me. He is a rescue shep-herd mix, named after one of my biggest idols Sir Jimi Hendrix.”

Contact info: Melissa anne smed

uEM Management (310)836-2446

Email:lRuEM@yahoo.com

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HW: i uNdERsTaNd yOu COME FROM a VERy di-VERsE BaCkGROuNd.

I was born and raised in Dallas, my mother is Hawaiian/Spanish/Filipino/Thai, and my father is Polish.

HW: WHaT Was iT likE FOR yOu GROWiNG up?

I was really lucky. I grew up with an innate respect for other cultures and it opened my eyes to the world.

So because of my culture, I am a bad driver and can whip up a great luau (laughs).

HW: i kNOW yOu HaVE BEEN dOiNG pROFEs-siONal plays siNCE THE aGE OF 14 suCH as Guys aNd dOlls, FiddlER ON THE ROOF, OuR TOWN, aNd THE BEVERly HillBilliEs.

WHEN did yOu Fall iN lOVE WiTH aCTiNG?

When I was a little, I was that kid who was annoying with adults (laughs). For instance, when I went shopping with my mother, I would go up to complete strangers and start to make up stories. I guess that was my first introduction into acting. I had an active imagina-tion. Because of this, I performed in many plays when I was a kid. In middle school, I was rebellious and always get-ting into trouble. I had a lot of energy so a drama teacher suggested I try out for a school play and I really en-joyed it.

there are certain peo-ple you meet who possess that “it” quality and celebri-ty factor--people who have that effervescent, natural way about them who you immediately want to get to know. i had the pleasure of encountering one of those people in the muse of ac-tress cat limket. the gor-geous 22-year-old texas beauty has that rare com-bination of a humor, wit and tons of magnetic ap-peal. the multicultural ac-tress who is part hawaiian spanish, filipino and Polish shares her story with hollywood weekly. we discuss her growing suc-cess and what keeps her grounded and happy.

thank you for speaking with hollywood weekly. it is a pleasure to be here.

aCTREss CaT liMkET down Home Charm

Written By Toria Gaylord

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HW: yOu alsO sTaRT-Ed MOdEliNG iN HiGH sCHOOl. CaN yOu Talk aBOuT THaT ExpERi-ENCE?

At 17, I was walking through a mall in Texas and a scout approached me and asked if I was interested. My very first job was an ad for a JC Penny’s. Then when I turned 19, I had the oppor-tunity to go to New York and live in a model house for about six months.

HW: Was iT likE THE HOusE ON aMERiCa’s NExT TOp MOdEl?

It was a little like that but we also had guys who lived in the house too. It was the best time of my life but the lifestyle was crazy. I mean you are so young and have a lot of access and money in New York City. So we would spend our days going to fashion go-sees and the nights partying.

HW: HOW did yOu TRaNsiTiON FROM MOdEliNG BaCk iNTO aCTiNG?

My modeling agent in New York would send me on commercial audi-tions and met a girl who turned me on to Stella Adler, so I studied with Stella for a while. However, for me, the whole New York acting scene was more theater and I wanted to do film and felt like I needed to live in Los Angeles.

HW: yOuR FiRsT lEad-iNG ROlE is iN a FEa-TuRE CallEd “a paRa-disE OF BaCHElORs” WHiCH is sET TO dEBuT NOVEMBER 2011. CaN yOu TEll us aBOuT THE FilM?

It is the brainchild of James Bretney who served in the military and

wrote about his experience. My charac-ter is Nutty Nancy who is smart-ass with a ton of issues. I call this movie Sex in the City for men.

They are all ex military guys deal-ing with their love lives.

HW: yOu aRE sET TO play a laRGE sup-pORTiNG ROlE iN a dRaMaTiC FEaTuRE, WHiCH is TO BE sET aNd FilMEd iN NEW yORk iN THE NExT FEW MONTHs.

Yes, it is a movie called, “Fondest Memories.” It is a great script. I play a girl who is the main characters best friend. I am really happy and excited because it has been my dream to film a movie in New York.

HW: WHOM dO yOu adMiRE?

Well I love Cate Blanchett and Anna Farris. Mila Jovovich is hot and can kick butt too. Meryl Streep is so amazing and classic and I love Angelina Jolie. I admired these women because of their diversity. For me, I do not want to be type casted in this industry.

HW: HOW MuCH dO yOu dRaW ON yOuR OWN ExpERiENCEs WHEN yOu aCT?

I base so much of my acting on my own experiences. I think that acting is being able to convince people you are that person.

HW: iF yOu COuld sTaR iN a RE-MakE OF a ClassiCal FilM, WHO WOuld yOu WaNT TO play?

I would have to say the remake of Alfred Hitchcock with Tippi Hedren in, “The Birds.” That movie is a classic and you know Tippy was not the typical helpless woman, she was a take-charge kind of woman and I love that.

HW: WHaT Was yOuR MOsT CHallENGiNG ROlE?

I did a movie called, “A River Runs Red,” which was about a group of friends from a small town and I played the leader of this girl group who was schizophrenic. I really had to push my-self to get into my character.

HW: WHaT dO yOu dO iN yOuR spaRE TiME?

I love to work out and I am anal with organization, especially with my closets. I love outdoorsy things. I love going to Runyon, going to local fairs and going to the beach. I love to cook! I watch Rachel Ray and get my cook on.

HW: WHERE dO yOu sEE yOuRsElF iN 5 yEaRs?

I want to be able to make a living in this industry. I want to get that Oscar. I would love to start my own organiza-tion working with animals. I want to be able to bring my Mom and brother here in LA. If I can have a sustainable career here and have my family close by, I will be happy.

Contact info: Ms.Cat limket uEM Management (310)836-2446 email:lRuEM@yahoo.com

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photo Credit: patrick Bastien photography

actress/Model:

sHaR MONROE

Contact:uEM Management:(310)836-2446 email:modelmgr@gmail.com sharmonroe@gmail.com

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“If you can do it in West Hollywood, you can do it anywhere.” This statement uttered by Glenn Dellimore, former COO and Director of Business Development for Voda Spa (7700 Santa Monica Boulevard), reflects a sentiment commonly held in a city known for the diverse and demanding nature of its consumers. But for Leon Shparaga, one of Voda’s six Russian owners, the unique challenges posed by his US clientele are just business as usual.

Mr. Shparaga emigrated to America in 1980 at the age of nine. Like so many West Hollywood resi-dents, he and his family appreciate the chance to grow with our young community.

Shparaga’s enthusiasm for the city is matched by his extensive knowl-edge of spas, which he has visited all over Europe and the USA. His method

for creating Voda Spa has been to combine the best of what he has seen with the best of what he hasn’t.

One innovation is Voda’s cafe and fully licensed bar, where clients often linger for many hours. The ca-fe’s American and Russian dishes are equally delicious, while the juice bar serves up some of the finest smoothies this writer has yet tasted in Southern California.

Food and drink quell the raven-ous hunger and thirst sometimes expe-rienced by clients who choose the spa’s signature banya platza treatment, which is modeled on practices going back to the time of Tsar Peter the Great. In combination with visits to the sauna and pool, leafy oak branches imported from Russia (venik) are soaked in water and gently applied to the body. The euphoric process is said to draw out impurities, improve circulation, and re-fresh the spirit.

Voda spa A CrEAtiVE SyNtHESiS For tHE NEW CENtury

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Additional services include fa-cials, massages, salon treatments, and scrubs and wraps. The deep tissue “Russian Bear” massage re-stores strength to forearms, wrists, necks, and shoulders.

For a $50 fee one may use the 15,000-square-foot Voda facility for up to four hours. The outdoor sun patio, lounge/meeting room, and VIP suite may be rented for a variety of purposes. The spa is open for service 365 days per year. A sophisticated blend of ancient traditions and modern trends, Voda Spa is a luxurious sanctuary that surrounds the client in an oasis of comfort.

Voda Spa has a cosmopoli-tan ambience that reflects cultures from across the globe. The concern and respect for the individual rarely encountered during these difficult times permeate the spa’s atmo-sphere like the therapeutic steam from its four specialty saunas. The spa wipes all traces of Mayakovsky’s Soviet-era banya philistines from memory. Born during a time of cri-sis in true Russian fashion, Voda Spa embodies a timeless American vision of quality and value.

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WORLD

Giving Thanks for Globalization

Written by dr. laura Wilhelm lauraWil intercultural

“the language of friendship is not words but meanings.”-Henry david Thoreau

uganda Familyphoto Credit: april davis

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hanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. This classic model of intercultural col-laboration suggests endless new applications for today’s globalizing economy.

Most American school chil-dren have participated in pageants dressed as Pilgrims and Indians sit-ting down together at an autumn feast of Thanksgiving in 1621. The Pilgrim colony was nearly devastated until the Indians arrived to assist it through the long first winter.

The Native Americans’ welcoming committee included English translators named Samoset and Squanto who had mastered the language through living and working with white settlers.

Furthermore, the Native Americans taught the new Americans to fish, hunt, and plant using sustainable methods that made the most of precious natural resources. All parts of both plants and animals were used for clothing, hous-ing, and implements as well as food. I know eco-friendly fashion designers who have based entire collections upon these timeless Native American styles.

Our American Thanksgiving feast is based upon age-old harvest tradi-tions that respect the wisdom of the

earth and our elders. For several years my father’s grandmother made it her mission to fly out from her home in the frozen Northern Midwest to spend Thanksgiving with my free-wheeling Southern California family.

Great Grandma enjoyed sharing her family Thanksgiving recipes with us all and proudly spent hours assembling elaborate centerpieces made with dried gourds and Indian corn combined with fresh berries and greenery from our back yard. The pairing of the old with the new is what makes Thanksgiving such a meaningful holiday for most of us.

Bicultural director Gurinder Chadha’s film WHAT’S COOKING? (2000) insightfully portrays Thanksgiving Day as filtered through the diverse per-ceptions of four families in Los Angeles’ Fairfax District. I have had even more uproarious Thanksgiving experiences in this city.

At one Thanksgiving potluck I was greeted by the Iranian securi-ty guard at the mid-Wilshire campus of LA ORT where I sometimes teach ESL. “It’s a good thing to be friendly, obviously,” he observed while adding some kebabs to the sumptuous inter-national feast spread out in the stu-dent lounge. One of his countrymen

provided entertainment in the form of “Hava Nagilah” and other world clas-sics played on the acoustic keyboard.

On Thanksgiving many Americans make it a tradition to give donations of food and funds to global families much like our own. Groups such as Designers 4 Africa work year round to alleviate hunger and other poverty-related conditions. In LA charity of-ten begins in our own back yard with holiday donations to homeless shelters and other community organizations.

On October 19th a lively group gathered for an intercultural feast at the RUNGLISH book signing co-hosted by my company with author Nina Naydenova at West Hollywood’s Russian/American Voda Spa. The guests on our list boasted descent from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East as well as Russia and Eastern Europe. America has branched out in so many fascinating directions since that mo-mentous Thanksgiving Day in 1621.

In these times of transition we are all pilgrims whose lives may depend upon our dealings with the natives. We can all survive if we trust each other enough to pay it forward and pool our skills and resources. Global conscious-ness is always something to be thank-ful for.

photo Credit: Nina Naydenova

T

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We all know there’s a portion of West Hollywood referred to as “little Russia.” But what many of don’t know is the fascinating way the Russian and English language has been combined to create a “new” language called Runglish. The book offers a fascinating peek into the Russian commu-nity and the way it’s being transformed. Author of Runglish, Nina Naydenova and co-host for the book signing, Laura Wilhelm from the famed Laura Wihelm Intercultural business development services, both took some time out to chat about the book and the story behind it.

The book is making quite an impact throughout the world. And that point was made clear at the October book signing held at Voda Spa in West Hollywood where there were two distinguished guests: David Zucker of the renowned Hollywood Zucker family and George Luchiri Wajackoyah, 2012 candidate for the presidency of Kenya. Watch the Runglish video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9p5pX7XXFg. For more information visit www.NinaNaydenova.buildlastingsuccess.com or www.NYSE.com

Q & a with the author nina naydenova

HW: WHaT iNspiREd yOu TO CREaTE THis BOOk?

The English language and cultural differences between America and Russia have always interested me. I was al-ways curious about language development and its cognition. Since becoming a translator I have noticed how cultural differences impact the translation from English into Russian and vice versa.

When I moved to America it was hard not to notice how Russian people really speak English, in Russian commu-nities especially. I started to do some research and came across the term “Runglish.” This became the official term in outer space between Russian and American astronauts for the first time back in 2000 to ease their communication on board the spacecrafts.

The misuse of English and Russian mixed together and abuse of Runglish was obvious. I was surprised to find that there was a lot of information out there on Runglish but that nobody had written anything about it in one book.

All I did was document the Runglish phenomenon, which is a fact in America and Russia, by putting everything

in one book called RUNGLISH. It’s fascinating to know that only among the Russian population can Runglish be used as a funny and humorous element in communication. Some countries actually ban the use of mixed languages, but in Russia it is very popular and entertaining.

HW: HOW dO yOu HOpE THE puBliC Will RECEiVE THE BOOk?

I hope it will bring about awareness of what’s tak-ing place right now and how Runglish impacts the Russian language and its development. We really need to work on being more proactive about preserving our culture and lan-guage. Being a parent of a two-year-old daughter, I’d like to address my book to parents as well with the message to teach their kids their native language. It’s the biggest gift you can give them. Never forget where you came from.

I don’t deny the fact that the use of Runglish can be really funny. I’m not presenting myself as an idol of a per-fect Russian-speaking individual and can appreciate laughter and humor. However, I also care about the Russian lan-guage and its development and progression in opposed to regression with the help of Runglish at some point.

the West Hollywood Book Signing of

ruNGLiSH is a Multi-cultural hit!!

Written By Jenny Werth

Nina Naydenova

LITERATURE

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Q & a with laura wilhelm

HW: HOW did yOu BE-COME iNTEREsTEd iN THE RussiaN laNGuaGE?

I have been a voracious bibliophile practically since birth and read the clas-sics of Russian literature early in life. I actually wanted to major in French when I took it in high school, but Russian seemed like a more versatile field of study when I entered Reed College in 1983. I gradu-ated with honors from the U of Kansas in 1994 with a doctorate in Russian language and literature and now run a global busi-ness development company for speakers of Russian and English called LauraWil Intercultural. I have therefore been work-ing with Russian in one way or another since the 1970s and the RUNGLISH pro-motion is one of the most enjoyable of these by far!!

HW: HOW did yOu MEET NiNa?

I met Nina when the City of West Hollywood’s Russian community liaison sent me a notice about her first RUNGLISH book signing at the Pacific Design Center on August 14th. I attended this event and arranged with Nina to help promote her book since we share so many inter-ests concerning Russian language, litera-ture, and culture

HW: HOW dO yOu FEEl aBOuT THE BOOk?

I love everything about this book and that is why I am working so hard to promote it. Some of my favorite subjects in grad school were stylistics and applied sociolinguistics, but there is much more to this than that. My neuroscientist fa-ther was a product of the Russian space race when the former Soviet Union was still the Evil Empire, and the Cold War continued to my generation of Russian scholars. The genesis of “Runglish” in outer space by Russian and American NASA cosmonauts at the turn of this cen-tury is a perfect example of how people are able to transcend perceived barriers when joined to a higher purpose. If I had met little Nina when I started study-ing Russian in the 1980s we would have automatically been enemies, yet now we have found it so easy to become friends. Enough said.

laura Wilhelm and Nina Naydenova

www.facebook.com/pages/west-hollywood-ca/laurawil-intercultural/80551218508

36 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

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Aloha, meet 10-year-old Shaun Twiddy from Hawaii

He is an actor, model, singer, ukulele player, bowler and aspiring director.

By the first grade, he had already gotten a role as an extra on “Lost.” Shaun was very curious about how television shows are produced, and how the cameramen and director work.

Shaun’s agent believes Shaun will be the next Ron Howard because of this. He also likes being in front of the camera and meeting new friends.

Hair color: blackEye color: brownHeight: 4’ 6”Weight: 62 lbs

38 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY

la THEaTRE BEaTBY STEVE ZALL AND SID FISH

“Annie” is the musical story of a spunky Depression-era orphan determined to find the parents who abandoned her on the doorstep of a New York City orphanage. In ad-venture after fun-filled adventure, Annie, along with Sandy, her trusty canine companion, foils Miss Hannigan’s cruel machinations, befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and finds a new family in the home of billionaire Oliver Warbucks. Written by Thomas Meehan and directed by Steven Glaudini, it runs through November 14 at the Long Beach Center for the Performing Arts in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-856-1999 or visit www.musical.org.

“diving normal” edgy and explosive comedic drama that explores friendship and love between three twenty-somethings as they swim from stability to recklessness, and back again, in a time ruled by temptation and indif-ference. Their dark histories of abandonment, accident, and sexual deviation surface as they struggle toward the comforting uniformity of traditional relationships. Written by Ashlin Halfnight and directed by Neil H. Weiss, it runs through November 14 at SFS Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-960-5521 or visit www.plays411.com/divingnormal.

“Becky shaw” A newly married couple finds their own relationship on the rocks after they set up their friends on a date from where Becky, a needy, down-on-her-luck college dropout whose one date with mean-spirited Max sets off shockwaves in the lives of her colleague Andrew and his bride, Suzanna. Further complicating matters is Suzanna’s say-anything mother, Susan, who may be dat-ing a con artist. Written by Gina Gionfriddo and directed by Pam MacKinnon, it runs through November 21 at the South Coast Repertory in the Folino Theater Center in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-708-5555 or visit www.scr.org.

“night of January 16” is a gripping courtroom drama loosely based on the career (and death) of Ivan Kreuger, the Swedish “Match King” who made and lost a fortune in business. It leaves the answers of the mystery up to the jury chosen each night from the audience who selects the ending of the play. Written by Ayn Rand and directed by Charles Picerni, it runs through November 14 at the Odyssey Theatre in West Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 or visit www.odysseytheatre.com.

“pippin” young prince Pippin longs to discover the secret of true happiness and fulfillment, seeking it in the glories of the battlefield, the temptations of the flesh and the intrigues of political power, after disposing of his fa-ther, King Charlemagne the Great. Based on two real-life individuals of the early Middle Ages, this musical is surreal and disturbing, sinister and modern, and invites you to take part in a voyage that is the dark side of your mind and self-awareness. Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, and directed by Hallie Baran, it runs through November 21 at the Hudson Backstage Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-960-5773 or visit www.plays411.com/pippin.

“hyperbole: Origins” a celebratory theatrical event that examines ancient and modern stories of origin as myths and science collide with masks, puppets, music and cutting-edge technology to create an exhilarating ex-perience. SEE the amazing Origin Machine© and experi-ence the fantastic Origin-torium©! It’s the birth of the universe - live on stage. Directed by Sean T. Cawelti, it runs through December 12 at [Inside] the Ford Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-461-3673 or visit www.Fordtheatres.org.

“the Ohio 4th” an up and coming theater company has relocated to Marion, Ohio to produce a play celebrat-ing the life and legacy of hometown hero and 29th U.S. President Warren G. Harding. Despite romantic tensions among the cast, opening night is shaping up to an unex-pected success, that is, until the company members find themselves with an unwieldy dilemma and discover the first problem of the night is by no means the last. Written by

We’re all still drying off from the un-seasonably wet weather we have been having lately, but don’t put away those umbrellas just yet, because out local theatres are about to unleash a deluge of new shows, such as:

THEATER

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Daniel Shoenmann and directed by Annie McVey, it runs through November 21 at the Hudson Mainstage Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-960-7714 or visit www.plays411.com/ohio4th.

“the Autumn garden” in a guest house on the Gulf, a hundred miles from New Orleans, old friends gather in a summer home to rediscover connections, rekindle lost relationships, and find peace - only to find that they can’t rewrite the stories of their past. Written by Lillian Hellman and directed by Larry Biederman, it runs through December 19 at The Antaeus Company at Deaf West Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-506-1983 or visit www.Antaeus.org

“Bloody red heart” Real L.A. teens explode the puffy pink heart stereotype in a stage adaptation of the bestselling book of essays, “RED: Teenage Girls in America Write on What Fires up Their Lives Today” with additional personal stories from L.A. public high school students. Every word is written by real teenagers: the girls in the book, ages 13 to 19, and local students. Based on the book “RED: Teenage Girls in America Write On What Fires Up Their Lives Today” by Amy Goldwasser, adapted for the stage by Tom Bryant and Amy Goldwasser, and directed by Leslie Ferreira, it runs November 4 through November 21 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 or visit www.Odysseytheatre.com.

“A raisin in the sun” is the gripping and explosive tale of one family living and learning together on the South Side of Chicago in the 1950s, as the Younger fam-ily searches for a way to grab their piece of the dream, even in the face of prejudice and discrimination. Written

by Lorraine Hansberry and directed by Lou Bellamy, it runs November 17 through November 21 at L.A. Theatre Works at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-827-0889 or visit www.latw.org.

“watson” is the story of a good man trapped in the shadow of a great man - a funny, moving and theatrically innovative take on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s heroes and villains. Written and directed by Jaime Robledo, it runs November 5 through December 11 at the Sacred Fools Theater in Hollywood. For tickets call 310-281-8337 or visit www.sacredfools.org.

“laughing with My Mouth wide Open” Actress/musician Gwendoline Yeo (Desperate Housewives) in a sharply observed and riotously funny celebration of her cultural journey from Singapore to America, and from family identity to self-identity and womanhood, during which she accompanies herself on the Chinese long zither . Written by Gwendoline Yeo and directed by Mark St. Amant, it runs November 20 through December 19 at the El Centro Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 800-838-3006 or visit www.brownpapertickets.com

so go out and enjoy some real life singing in the rain tonight with all of the family, and have a happy Thanksgiving!

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