Madonna yesterday hosted a meet and greet at Barneys New York to celebrate the US launch of MDNA SKIN, applying product to select VIP fans and taking photos with customers.
The line was co-developed by Madonna and MDNA SKIN’s Japanese parent company MTG. Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, Madonna’s dermatologist of two years, is also on board as MDNA SKIN’s brand consultant. The hero product, The Chrome Clay Mask, is comprised of clay that comes from Montecatini, Italy, where MDNA Skin was granted permission to use the city’s thermal waters and fango clay. Every product in the range is formulated with M.T. PARCA, a proprietary ingredient derived from four natural springs in Montecatini. The restorative, mineral-rich water is the base for the line’s products including a Face Wash, Face Serum, Eye Serum, Eye Masks and Rose Mist. Looking ahead, a Finishing Cream will join the lineup in the US in November, followed by a Reinvention Cream and an Onyx Black Beauty Roller next year.
Juice Magazine’s Surf Skate Style 75th Edition is rolling out worldwide at 148 pages deep with 100+ interviews, and features Dogtown skate legend and style master, Scott Oster, on the cover, captured by internationally celebrated photographer, Arto Saari, in tribute to the timeless tradition of Surf Skate Style.
Here are a few excerpts from the new mag as well as photos from the Juice Magazine Surf Skate Style Launch Party in Venice Beach, California at Juice HQ.
This issue is dedicated to Shogo Kubo, who once said, “To me, style is everything.”
Juice Magazine 75 features: Aaron Murray, Aaron Astorga, Abraham Paskowitz, Animal Chin 30 Year Reunion, Art Brewer, Ben Harper, Bennett Harada, Bones Brigade Chronicles, Brad Bowman, Brandon Cruz, Brian Brannon, Bro Gumpright, Carter Slade, Cattleboro, Chet Childress, Chris Miller, Chris Russell, Chris Strople, Christian Fletcher, Christian Hosoi, Craig Stecyk III, Darren Ho, Dave Tourje, David Hackett, Dedicated To The Core, Dennis Martinez, Dibi Fletcher, Don Redondo, Eric Britton, Garrett McNamara, Gerry Lopez, Glen E. Friedman, Greg Falk, Greg Galbraith, Greyson Fletcher, Herbie Fletcher, James O’Mahoney, Jef Hartsel, Jeff Ament, Jeff Divine, Jeff Ho, Jim Fitzpatrick, Jim Gray, John Van Hamersveld, Jonathan Paskowitz, Josh “Bagel” Klassman, Kalani David, Keith Morris, Kirra Kehoe, Kona Skatepark: 40 Years of Gnar, Larry Bertlemann, Laura Thornhill, Lizzie Armanto, Marc Emond, Michael Denicola, Michael Early, Nano Nobrega, Nathan Fletcher, Nathan Florence, Neil Stratton, Norton Wisdom, Oliver Percovich, Pala Graverobbers, Pat Bareis, Patti Mcgee, Randy Katen, Ray Flores, Rob Nelson, Robert Trujillo, Sam Ogden, Scott Oster, Shane Allen, Shannon Smith, Shaun Tomson, Shota Kubo, Skateistan, Solo Scott, Stacy Peralta, Steve Alba, Steve Olson, Steve Van Doren, Surf Skate Style, Takuji Masuda, Terry Nails, Tim Curran, Tim Hendricks, Tim Kerr, Tom Groholski, Tony Alva, Wes Humpston and Zach Miller.
The influence of surfing on skateboarding has been discussed since the beginning of both, yet we have now entered a new era, where skateboarding has returned the favor with its own unique influence on the surfing world. In order to get to the core of this cross over and to try to define the origins and current state and status of surf skate style, Juice Magazine interviewed some of the most innovative skateboarders, surfers, artists, documentarians, photographers, filmmakers and musicians on the planet.
DEDICATED TO THE CORE: BRO GUMPRIGHT
Words by CHARLIE WILKINS: Photo by Rob Collins.
Bro is from the East Coast, more specifically Cape Cod, and it doesn’t get much more “isolated with not much to skate” than that. Skaters like Bro who grew up on the East Coast face an uphill battle for just about everything in skateboarding. He could have just as easily quit skating, but not Bro. Straight edge for life, skate your face off ‘til you break your knees, and being an active participant in making the skate scene better is what he’s all about. Bro did so in part by diving into the world of a brick and mortar retail skateshop. Bro opened Orchard Skateshop in 2006, and over the last 10 years the shop has moved, grown and multiplied, and become the heart of the Boston skate scene.
CHET CHILDRESS
Interview by Jim Murphy
Photos by Karim Ghonem and Coburn Huff.
Gnarly skater and guerrilla artist, Chet Childress, is an East Coaster who has always stayed true to his roots. Growing up at the Ramp House in Carolina Beach, NC, at the end of the vert heydays in the ‘80s, his dedication during the lean times paid off with sponsors that encouraged his individuality and a worldwide road tripping addiction that has continued through the years on asphalt across the country. For Chet, being a pro skater doesn’t mean training for contests – quite the opposite. His vision is pure exploration – searching out graffiti-laced, outlawed pools and obscure monoliths aside a brushed out ditch. Chet’s thirst for the unknown ultimately defines what a skateboarder’s quest for adventure is all about.
CHRIS RUSSELL
Interview by Steve Olson
Photos by Dave Swift
Get on it, and throttle it to the max. Never let off, just seems to be the way. One slam, two slams, that doesn’t count. It’s about making it, and making it gnarly… Nothing to lose, it’s all one big gain… Through the triumph, victory, and the pain… This is Chris Russell… If you’ve seen him skate, you know what I mean.
STACY PERALTA
Interview by Steve Olson
Photo by C.R. Stecyk III.
“You’ll never amount to anything” ??? ‘Wait a minute, I’m just a kid’… Surfers and skaters from the early ‘70s, That’s what most heard, except a few… One, which didn’t listen so closely, is this guy, Stacy, Peralta that is… From one talent to the next, it all depends on your focus, and commitment… If you don’t know who I’m talking about, you will. Peralta has played a lot different roles… from Skater to Director. As they say, the guy has got talent, that’s obvious…
BEN HARPER
Interview by Jeff Ho
Photo by Dan Levy and Paul Gronner
Ben Harper is a real stand up guy. He’s an accomplished musician and singer-songwriter and he’s worked hard for it. Not only has he released over a dozen records and won three Grammy awards, he’s a skateboarder on the advisory board of the Tony Hawk Foundation working to build skateparks across America. Ben is a down to earth guy and his music has transcended boundaries and his lyrics spread vital messages about social issues and encourage cultural change. Ben is a good person with a ton of integrity and he is an important part of our culture. From the early days of coming up in his grandparents’ music store, to playing with some of the world’s finest musicians, like Charlie Musselwhite and Taj Mahal, he continues to preserve the legacy of music as he interprets it.
Steve Olson interviewed Patti McGee, the 1965 Woman’s first National Skateboard Champion, and Silly Girls Skateboards Ambassador. Patti graced the cover of LIFE Magazine in 1965 along with the cover of the 4th issue of Skateboarder Magazine, and made numerous TV appearances including being a guest on the Johnny Carson Show. Skateboarding Hall of Famer and skate legend, Patti was one of the first women to embody “surf-skate style”, back in 1962 with the Pump House Gang in San Diego.
SKATEISTAN
Interview with Oliver Percovich
Interview by Jim Murphy
Photos by Chad Foreman & Hamdullah Hamdard.
A skater goes to Afghanistan and shares his love for skateboarding with the local kids, many of whom have never seen a skateboard before. As he sees the youth expressing themselves through the freedom of skateboarding, he decides he needs to build them an indoor skatepark and school, and Skatestan is born! This is an incredible story and vision that is expanding beyond Kabul and helping at-risk youth around the world! Oliver Percovich – international skateboarding advocate speaks!
PALA GRAVE ROBBERS
Story and photos by Dave Swift
There is a section of houses just off the 76 Highway in North San Diego county that were once the dwellings of dairy workers. Many years ago the dairy closed for good and the houses were left boarded up and abandoned. On two of those properties, empty backyard pools were found in the late 90s and renegade sessions ensued. In the beginning, many of those sessions were quickly halted by authorities who were watching over the land and the boot was given. Other times, sessions were allowed to go on late into the night without any hassle whatsoever. That is until things got out of hand and they were shut down for good (the kidney was buried and the square was watched over by heavy-handed security) —or at least that’s what everyone thought.
KEITH MORRIS
Interview by Jeff Ho
Photo by Dan Levy and Olivia Jaffe
Keith Morris is an amazing person with a colorful and eventful career. He was at the forefront of punk rock and helped to define the scene, and he’s stayed involved and been working this whole time. From Black Flag to the Circle Jerks to Off! and Flag, his music has a message. From his early days in Hermosa Beach, his roots in surfing and skateboarding spurred the cross pollination of punk rock and skateboarding, resulting in an aggressive style that led to change. We talked about his new book “My Damage” and looked back on the beginning, the middle, the now and the future. Facing challenges head on is his way and I want to thank him for it. Keith’s message is more valuable now than ever. Grab his new book and listen to Keith Morris.
CATTLEBORO
Words by Tim Klemonsky
Photos by Eric Full and Fraser Tattie.
What does it take to have a killer backyard wooden bowl in New England? A LOT! Dedication on the backs of landscapers, masons, carpenters, skaters, delivery guys, painters, welders, you name it… Blue collar to the bone. 20 plus years of a wooden ramp that rots away, gets gutted and rebuilt section by section every year. No corporate skate money, no contest banners, no soft drink helmets, no nothing… It’s a hardworking crew called the 59. Big shout out to Iggy, the owner, his family and city and estate gardener for being the backbone push behind a fun place I can feel at home when I ride.
SHANNON SMITH
Interview by Jim Murphy
Photo by Quinn Knight
Shannon has been a hardcore Charleston local from the days of Blaize Blouin’s backyard ramp sessions with Bonnie Blouin, Hank, Rasta Mike and the godfather of the East Coast layback rollout, Brad Constable. Charleston was localized by a hardcore crew of skaters who rode whatever was in their way and Shannon was up for the endless adventures with the skate family, from SC to Cedar Crest to Atlanta and hanging with the Rancheros! As concrete skateparks emerged throughout the country, Shannon started to rally for a skatepark to give the next generations more rippable terrain! During the long haul to get the park built, Shannon and Otis raised a family, built a killer backyard pool, and, today, skate their pool with their two kids, Audrey and Lil Johnny Otis. Now, through the efforts of Shannon and the local crew, a killer Team Pain skatepark called Sk8 Charleston has opened, complete with the Blaize bowl and a 200 foot snakerun! Congrats to everyone who fought to make this word class skatepark in Charleston a reality.
KONA SKATEPARK: 40 YEARS OF GNAR:
Words and photos by Dan Levy
For the last 40 years, Kona Skatepark in Jacksonville Florida has remained a lighthouse for generations of skateboarders to come and test their mettle on its legendary concrete terrain. Kona stands alone in its status as the oldest consecutive-running, privately owned skatepark in North America, making it a historical landmark for skateboarding and also an American treasure. Since 1977, skateboarding has constantly challenged all possibilities and Kona has remained a veritable proving ground for the most famous and infamous names in skateboarding to showcase their skills. The Ramos family has weathered many a storm over the years and their unwavering dedication to keeping skateboarding alive is inspirational and appreciated by those who show up to ride on a daily basis. The 40 year celebration of this magical concrete wonderland was nothing short of astonishing.
STEVE VAN DOREN
Interview by Jim Murphy
Photo by Dan Levy
Steve Van Doren is one of the hardest working and most dedicated men in skateboarding, and the hardcore work ethic of the Van Doren family started in Boston and flourished in California with a vision of making quality, functional shoes. Since 1966, Vans has been the go-to shoe for skateboarders and, with the entourage of rippers they sponsor, Vans has created a skate family legacy with no end in sight. From innovative skateparks to the Vans Pool Party and Vans Park Series, Steve and his crew have proven time and again that they are leading the way to keeping skateboarding fun. Through the last five decades, Steve has had skateboarders’ backs and stayed true to his roots. Alva, Caballero, Hosoi – the list goes on of legends that Vans continues to sponsor. This respect for history and vision for the future is who Steve Van Doren is. Thanks, Steve, for keeping it punk!
SAM OGDEN
Interview and photos by Brian Twitty
Hailing from Monroe, North Carolina, this young gun is on his way up. With heroes like Chris Russell and Ben Raybourn, Sam brings relentless, raw East Coast talent to the mix. This kid is a regular ripper at Joe’s Bowl and Tom Risser’s Whipsnake mogul wonderland, but he also makes frequent trips to Cali to get a taste of a variety of West Coast terrain. Sam has a good head on his shoulders and is intent on keeping his grades on point while he rolls on with no end in sight. Keep a look out for this kid!
BONES BRIGADE CHRONICLES
FROM SET TO SUNDANCE TO ANIMAL CHIN 30 YEAR:
Words & photos by Dan Levy
It’s not very often that you get an invitation to document the making of a film by a highly accomplished and respected filmmaker like Stacy Peralta, yet Juice Magazine did and what I witnessed gives me chills. After waking to the usual morning scene of Venice Beach decorated with boardwalk debris, homeless camps and the always colorful good morning banter that usually exists at very high volume, I looked north from the balcony of Juice and remembered the fact that the POP Pier once existed in front of our office and is the very location where Stacy and Dogtown’s most elite aggressively forged a path into history with attitude, style and localism. I grabbed my camera bag, jumped in the car and started the journey to Burbank to reach the set of the “Bones Brigade: An Autobiography”. It was feeling like a Led Zeppelin morning, so I threw in the BBC Sessions Live album and headed into L.A. traffic. The levity of what I was about to experience started to sink in and the anticipation acted as my coffee replacement for the morning.
Juice Magazine Surf Skate Style Party! August 24, 2017 at 319 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291.
Special thanks to sponsors and event partners:
Pabst Blue Ribbon, G-SHOCK, Made In Venice, Bern Unlimited, Silly Girls Skateboards, Flake, The Venice Ale House, Tea Riot, Niki Red Wheels, Jeff Ho Zephyr Productions, Speedlab Wheels, Venice Skateboarding Stuff, Embassy Skateboards, Hecho En Venice, Carver Skateboards, DTC Crew, Venice Beach Bar, Black Flys, Dogtown Skateboards, Powell Peralta, Bones Wheels, Vans, Alva Skateboards, So Cal Skate Shop, California Locos, Skull Skates, Anaheim Skateboards, Salt Rags, Wounded Knee Skateboards, Seventh Wave Surf Shop, Stability Skateboards and Astrodeck.
Scott Oster, Ty Trujillo, Chloe Trujillo and Robert Trujillo of Metallica. The Juice Magazine Surf Skate Style party was a night filled with rock stars, art stars and skateboarding legends! Photo by Dan Levy
Juice Magazine hosted a Surf Skate Style party for the new mag at its Venice Beach headquarters, as a celebration of surf, skate, music, art and life, with Scott Oster signing his Juice Magazine cover.
Surf and skateboarding icons featured in this issue of the mag made special guest appearances to be part of this legendary event including: Christian Fletcher, Christian Hosoi, Robert Trujillo, Scott Oster, Jeff Ho, Brad Bowman, Patti McGee, Laura Thornhill, Bennett Harada, Shota Kubo, Eric Britton, Brandon Cruz, Ray Flores, Solo Scott, Josh “Bagel” Klassman, Kirra Kehoe, Neil Carver, Michael DeNicola, Jim Gray, Carter Slade, Dennis Martinez and Brian Brannon.
The evening included a surprise appearance by Brian Brannon of JFA doing an acoustic set of classic punk rock songs, and a crowd-pleasing musical performance by Jeremy Parker and Masao Miyashiro while skate legend Ray Flores was the guest DJ for this special night.
Rock star, Robert Trujillo of Metallica, and his art star wife, Chloe Trujillo and their 12-year old rock star son, Ty Trujillo, who just completed a tour playing bass with Korn chilled at Juice HQ all night while a super grom skate session went down on the Venice boardwalk with one of the most famous skateboarders on the planet, Christian Hosoi, mentoring and filming the next generation of rippers.
This special event included a special appearance by Z-Boys, Nathan Pratt and Peggy Oki, along with mastermind of Zephyr and one of the godfathers of Dogtown, Jeff Ho. Jesse Martinez, street skating pioneer and star of the “Made In Venice” movie (which comes out on DVD on Oct 3rd) was also on hand to celebrate, along with director of the movie, Jonathan Penson.
Two badass skateboarding pioneers, Peggy Oki and Patti McGee. These beautiful ladies have dedicated their lives to giving back to good causes, and we thank them for all they have done and continue to do for skateboarding and surfing and the ocean. Photo by Dan Levy
3 Kings of Surf Skate Style: Scott Oster, Christian Hosoi and Christian Fletcher. Photo by Dan Levy
Quinne Daniels – pure happiness on a skateboard. Photo by Venice Beach Photos
Super grom squad, Classic Hosoi, Rocket Jo, Presley, Lil Bear and Tommy Calvert. Photo by Venice Beach Photos
Here is the newly launched elegant boxed set, Porsche Christophorus by publishers Delius Klasing. For the first time in 65 years, Porsche Christophorus Magazine has created six different covers for their September issue. The six magazine covers display a portrait of each of the six LMP1 drivers in the FIA World Endurance Championship during the six-hour race on the Nürburgring in July 2016.
Famous and influential portrait photographer, Martin Schoeller, photographed the drivers in a mobile studio immediately after they had climbed out of the cockpit of the Porsche 919 hybrid- racing car. Readers are able to feel and understand the emotions of each driver after the long distance race.
The biggest and sexiest Halloween party of the year will be on October 21st in Los Angeles. This annual event features musical performers, live entertainers, sexy costumes, and guarantees to be a night to remember. Tickets and VIP Table Packages are in limited supply so purchase yours before they sell out.
Join One Concierge and all of this year’s top musical artists under one roof on November 19th for a dazzling lineup of performances and surprise appearances. From after parties to VIP experiences, this year’s event is not to be missed! Contact your One Concierge lifestyle team to learn more about this exclusive event.
The year’s final race on the F1 circuit, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on November 26th is one of the premier Formula One destinations. Stakes will be high and excitement is guaranteed! One Concierge is your race weekend expert for private VIP suites, luxury accommodation, and exclusive experiences such as meeting the drivers and touring the pits and team garages. Get Race Package
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show is one of the most anticipated and most exclusive events of the year. This year’s show will be the first ever held in Asia as it moves to Shanghai. Angels such as Adriana Lima, Gigi Hadid, and Ming Xi will join a cast of all new models. Contact your One Concierge team today to learn more about this year’s exclusive event in Shanghai.
Infiniti has an unwavering dedication to the highest levels of performance and luxury. This is noticeably true for their flagship sedan – the Q70. The Q70 is available in the following options: a standard-wheel-base-only hybrid, two engine options (3.7L V6 and 5.6L V8) and your choice of all-wheel or rear-wheel drive. We tested the Premium Select Edition (approximately $71,000). It’s Infinti’s long wheel base version aka Q70L with rear wheel drive.
The aggressive hood and grille may hint that there is an overqualified power plant to catapult the extended sedan. Swift contours of the body look as if it’s built to burn through the atmosphere with little effort. An exemplary feature that really sets this particular model apart is its length, measuring 202 inches. The designers added 6 inches to the rear door while only adding about 100lbs to the curb weight. The additional room intensifies a more ergonomic back seat passenger experience without causing an adverse effect on the other elements. Moreover, the vehicle profile is much more attractive because the front and rear windows appear to be identical in size.
Infiniti’s Q70L can carry its weight (4174lbs) quite comfortably. Powered by a hefty 5.6L 32-valve V8 cranking out 420hp with 417 pound-ft of torque (0 to 60 mph in 5.5 Sec). The robust engine is a silky smooth 7-speed automatic adaptive shift controlled (ASC) transmission. The driver adaptive learning algorithm senses driving style and adapts accordingly. Or if you care to fiddle with its performance, select manual shift mode with gearshifts and downshift rev matching.
Elegant fenders enunciate 20 inch aluminum alloy wheels with all season tires. They’re bonded to an independent front and rear suspension as well as front and rear stabilizer bars for a flawless ride. High performance sport brakes with 4 piston front and 2 piston rear calipers brings the vehicle to a prompt halt.
Upon going into the cabin, you are welcomed by graphite semi-aniline leather seating with contrast seat piping, aluminum interior trim, Japanese ash wood accents, suede-like headliner and illuminated kick plates. Up-front are 10-way power and climate controlled seats with lumbar support. The steering wheel is fully adjustable with power tilt and a telescopic steering column for a tailored driving experience. Moreover, 16-speaker Bose Studio Surround sound system adds up with integrated headrest speakers on front seats.
The “L” in Q70L could take on many different meanings: large, luxurious or legroom. The extra 6 inches in rear cabin make you feel like you are on a first-class overseas flight with the ability to stretch. Even with the front seat fully reclined, there’s still considerable legroom for an average sized adult. Furthermore, the center armrest folds down, housing two cup holders and controls for the heated back seats.
Lastly, what is luxury without technology?Infiniti Connection is an arrangement of digital applications and remote services which gives you a direct access to the world around you. NavTraffic and NavWeather provide detailed traffic data as well as sporadic weather updates. The Around View monitor projects through the 8-inch infotainment display. This advanced technology makes parking easier. Four cameras are stationed on all sides to create a 360-degree birds-eye view.
For just over $70,000 you will be in both the lap of luxury and performance. As one of the most prolific Japanese cars, it’s perfect for a sophisticated family or an upper level executive who likes to be driven round.
“This book puts you directly behind the scenes for a story that began with a dream, overcame constant challenges, and evolved into the institution it is today.”―Steven Spielberg
“Documented here by the people who lived it, this is a remarkable tale of how a major institution, created out of whole cloth, wove itself into the American fabric.”
—Cokie Roberts, author and political commentator for ABC and NPR
For over fifty years, the American Film Institute has flourished as one of America’s great cultural entities. Its graduates, faculty, supporters, and trustees have included such acclaimed individuals as Steven Spielberg, Maya Angelou, Gregory Peck, Sidney Poitier, Meryl Streep, Les Moonves, Patty Jenkins, David Lynch, Jane Fonda, Edward James Olmos, Shonda Rhimes, James L. Brooks, and many other respected leaders in the worlds of film, television, digital media, and philanthropy.
In their new book, Becoming AFI: 50 Years Inside the American Film Institute (Santa Monica Press/October 2017), Jean Picker Firstenberg and James Hindman provide a candid look at how this remarkable organization brought together aspiring filmmakers, educators, and artists who helped AFI become the foremost national champion for moving images as a vibrant art form.
From its early years operating out of the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, and the legendary Greystone mansion in Beverly Hills under the leadership of George Stevens Jr., through its incredible growth into an influential cultural institution at its landmark Hollywood campus under the guidance of Jean Picker Firstenberg, to its continued excellence today under the dynamic leadership of Bob Gazzale, the organization and its history are chronicled in Becoming AFI through in-depth essays written by those who have been involved in its adventures, growth, and success.
“After being asked so many times what our book would be about, we decided to put together AFI’s history as we experienced it personally,” explain Firstenberg and Hindman. “As we structured the book with the stories we wanted to tell from those years, we realized that some of those stories really belonged to other voices. So, we went to several former colleagues and asked them to join our band. Each chapter tells a stand-alone story about an aspect of AFI, but together, they add up to the full picture.”
Becoming AFI provides an insightful, behind-the-scenes look at how AFI, with passionate determination, overcame the hurdles of advancing technology, political shifts, and new audience dynamics to turn its aspirations into a substantial and highly successful organization, becoming a tireless advocate of moving images as one of America’s most popular forms of art, and maturing into one of the world’s most respected educational and cultural institutions.
“No matter how divisive life in this country may become, the movie theater has always been a place where we can discover what unites us.”
—Vernon Jordan Jr., New York Times“AFI saved our film history. AFI celebrates filmmakers. AFI trains the next generation. Thanks to Becoming AFI for telling us the fascinating story of its fifty-year history. And a big thank you to Jean Picker Firstenberg and James Hindman for documenting all of it! Here’s to the next fifty!”
―Edward James Olmos, actor and AFI trustee
About the Authors
Jean Picker Firstenberg served as president and CEO of the American Film Institute from 1980 to 2007, overseeing the development of AFI as one of America’s greatest national, cultural, and educational resources. She received an AFI Life Achievement Award for Service to the Institute and was named president emerita and a lifetime trustee. In 2016, Firstenberg was named to the California State University Board of Trustees by Governor Jerry Brown, overseeing the largest four-year public university system in the United States, with twenty-three campuses educating the most diverse student body in the nation. Prior to serving at AFI, Firstenberg spent four years as a program officer at the John and Mary R. Markle Foundation. She also served as director of Princeton University’s Publications Office. Firstenberg is a summa cum laude graduate of Boston University’s College of Communications. She has served on several boards, including that of Boston University (1984–1996), the George Foster Peabody Awards at Georgia University (1985–1997; board chair 1991–1997), and the United States Postal Service Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee (2002–2014; committee chair 2008–2014). She has won numerous awards and honorary degrees.
James Hindman, PhD, has spent his career in cinema and performing arts, creating and leading professional and public education programs at major institutions. During his twenty-four years at the American Film Institute, where he served as co-director and chief operating officer, he was provost of the AFI Conservatory, which he nurtured through WASC accreditation. He was also the uncredited producer of the award-winning feature documentary Visions of Light and the television series Starring the Actor. He developed the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Springs, Maryland, as well as numerous television projects and international film and television festivals. Subsequent to AFI, he developed and led film schools in the U.S. and internationally, including the Red Sea School of Cinematic Arts in Aqaba, Jordan, and New Mexico State University’s Creative Media Institute in Las Cruces. He is currently on the board of the New Mexico School for the Arts in Santa Fe, charged with creating a new cinematic and media arts program and facilities for the school. Prior to AFI, he served as head of graduate studies in the Performing Arts Department at American University in Washington, DC, having previously taught at the University of North Carolina. Hindman holds a PhD in drama from the University of Georgia and has served on the boards of the AIDS Service Center and LAMP in Los Angeles. He currently splits his time between Santa Monica, California, and Taos, New Mexico.
Patty Jenkins made history in 2017 when she directed her second film, Wonder Woman, becoming the first woman to direct a studio superhero movie and earning the biggest domestic opening of all time for a woman director. Jenkins wrote and directed her first film, the crime drama Monster, in 2003, launching Charlize Theron’s career with many awards, including an Oscar for Best Actress. Jenkins graduated from the Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in 1993 and the AFI Conservatory in 2001.
Dana Gioia was appointed Poet Laureate of the State of California in 2015 by Governor Jerry Brown. An award-winning poet who has published five collections of poetry, Gioia served as chair of the National Endowment for the Arts from 2003 to 2009, and was named a USC Judge Widney Professor in Poetry and Public Art in 2011.
David Lynch, born in 1946 in Missoula, Montana. Eagle Scout.
BECOMING AFI: 50 YEARS INSIDE THE AMERICAN FILM INSTITUTE
By Jean Picker Firstenberg and James Hindman
Foreword by Dana Gioia
Preface by Patty Jenkins
Afterword by David Lynch
Santa Monica Press/October 2017
Hardcover/$27.95
ISBN-13: 978-159580-094-7
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES, REVIEW COPIES AND INTERVIEWS CONTACT:
New Insider Microadventures of Mexico’s Cultural Heritage Sites Now Offered from Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Day Trips to Chichén Itzá, Uxmal and Merida Via Private Plane
The “Beyond-All Inclusive, Beyond All Compare” Grand Velas Riviera Maya now offers new Insider Microadventures for guests to experience some of the best culture highlights in the destination. Two experiences are now offered, one to Chichén Itzá and the other to Uxmal and the colonial city of Merida, with transportation in private plane included.
The resort’s micro-adventure to Chichen Itza, undoubtedly the most famous Mayan ruins, features a private tour guide to explore the complex, the largest pre-Columbian city built by the Maya people which was first developed between 750 and 900 AD. Also at the site, guests will be treated to a 3-course lunch menu of regional favorites and swimming in a cenote (a large, natural sink hole).
As a second option, guests can explore the ruins of Uxmal and Merida, the largest city on the Yucatan peninsula. Representing the pinnacle of late Mayan art and architecture in its design, layout and ornamentation, Uxmal is one of the most important archaeological sites of Mayan culture. A private guide will show guests around the UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the towering Pyramid of the Magician and the Governor’s Palace, which is over 12,000 sq. ft. in total. After visiting Uxmal, the experience features private transportation to Merida for a lunch and city tour complete with carriage ride down the Paseo de Montejo (Montejo Avenue) for a glimpse at the elaborate homes that still line the main street.
Private round trip transportation to both locations is provided in a CESSNA 206 single-engine plane.
The three-night Insider Microadventure to Chichen Itza starts at $3,960 USD and the Insider Microadventure for Uxmal & Merida begins at $4,545 USD. Rates are per person based on double occupancy and include luxury suite accommodations, à la carte gourmet meals at a variety of specialty restaurants, premium branded beverages, 24-hour in-suite service, fitness center, taxes, gratuity and more. For more reservations or more information on Grand Velas Riviera Maya, please email reservationsrm@velasresorts.com, call 1-888-407-4869, or visit http://rivieramaya.grandvelas.com/.
About Grand Velas Riviera Maya:
Set on 206 acres of pristine jungle and mangroves and with the finest white sand beach in the Riviera Maya, the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an ultra-luxury all-inclusive resort. Guests can choose among three separate ambiances in this Leading Hotel of the World, including adults-only oceanfront, family-friendly ocean view and a Zen-like tropical setting, embraced by the flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungle. All 539 designer-like suites are exceptionally spacious, more than 1,100 square feet each, all with balconies, and some with private plunge pools. All feature fully stocked mini bars, plasma TVs, Wi-Fi, L’Occitane amenities, artisanal tequila, and Nespresso coffee machines. Bathrooms deserve special mention with walk in glass shower, deep soaking Jacuzzi tubs and marble interior. Eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings, present a tour through Mexico, Europe and Asia. Cocina de Autor, at the hands of world renowned celebrity chefs Bruno Oteiza, Mikel Alonso and Xavier Pérez Stone, holds the AAA Five Diamond Award, the first all-inclusive restaurant in the world to win this prestigious distinction. Se Spa, a Leading Spa of the World, is the region’s largest spa sanctuary at more than 90,000 square feet, known for its authentic Mexican treatments, offerings from around world and signature seven-step water journey. Other features include 24-hour Personal Concierge; 24/7 in-suite service; three swimming pools; two fitness centers; water sports; innovative Kids Clubs and Teen’s Club; Karaoke Bar; Koi Bar; Piano Bar, and business center. The resort offers more than 91,000 square feet of meeting space and outdoor areas for events inclusive of a 31,000-square-foot Convention Center, able to accommodate up to 2,700 guests. The resort has won numerous awards from Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today and several other magazines and major companies worldwide, including World Luxury Spa Awards and TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame. Grand Velas Riviera Maya was built and is operated by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder and President of Velas Resorts, with his brother Juan Vela, Vice President of Velas Resorts.
This season, Josh Flagg is officially off the market as he enters into uncharted territory preparing to marry his fiancée Bobby. However, as the big day approaches an explosive conflict between Josh and Bobby puts everything at risk. Josh Altman’s business is doing better than ever but the arrival of his new baby girl is challenging him in ways that he’s never imagined. Meanwhile, Madison Hildebrand might just be having the best year of his life. Not only is business in Malibu stronger than ever, but he’s found love with his new boyfriend, Cody. Brits, James Harris and David Parnes find themselves in tough situations with demanding sellers and decide to take on a new project that will change the Los Angeles skyline forever. Meanwhile, newcomer Tracy Maltas struggles to maintain a work life balance with a husband and two daughters at home while expanding her business and butting heads with the rest of the boys.
Meet Tracy Tutor Maltas:
With over 15 years of experience Los Angeles native, Tracy Tutor Maltas is one of the top agents at Douglas Elliman West. She has an undeniably strong presence and a confidence that has propelled her into the rooms of some of the most powerful people in LA. Tracy’s clients are primarily by referral. She prides herself on nurturing those relationships and with a strong in-house team she has her personal network of talent on speed dial including many of the hottest designers, architects and builders. Tracy has represented some of the most powerful brands in real estate. She has consulted for the luxury five star hotel and resort, Amangiri in Canyon Point, Utah on the sales of over $400 million dollars in branded real estate and more recently has been chosen to represent one of the most exciting new developments to come to Los Angeles, the West Hollywood EDITION Hotel and Residences launching in early 2018.
“Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles” is produced for Bravo by World of Wonder Productions with Randy Barbato, Fenton Bailey, Chaz Morgan and Maryam Jahanbin serving as Executive Producers and Shahram Qureshi serving as Co-Executive Producer.
About Bravo Media:
Bravo Media is the premier lifestyle and entertainment brand that drives cultural conversation around its high-quality, interactive original content focusing on the network’s passion points of food, fashion, beauty, design, digital, and pop culture. The network’s diversified slate includes Bravo’s scripted series “Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce,” “Imposters,” and “Odd Mom Out,” in addition to unscripted favorites such as Emmy Award-winning “Top Chef,” “Vanderpump Rules,” “Below Deck,” “Southern Charm,” and the popular “Million Dollar Listing” and “The Real Housewives” franchises, as well as the only live late-night talk show, “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen.” Available in 87 million homes, Bravo is a program service of NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment, a division of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Watch Bravo anywhere: on demand, online, or across mobile and connected TVs. Bravo has been an NBCUniversal cable network since December 2002 and first launched in December 1980.
To support the local Houston community and relief effort, Thunder From Down Under presented a $5,000 donation to members of the Houston Humane Society last night. The donation came from a portion of the proceeds from Thunder From Down Under’s House of Blues Houston show last week. In addition to donating, the men of Thunder From Down Under also volunteered at the Houston Humane Society bathing the shelter dogs and cats, walking the dogs, playing with the animals and helping transport them. Photos and video from the visit, here.
“This is something that really means a lot to us. I have four dogs, two cats and a tortoise, and every single one of the guys on this show has an animals themselves,” said Marcus Deegan, Thunder From Down Under’s emcee. “It’s a small pinch, but everyone can donate to this massive cause. If anybody out there has a pet, know it’s not just an animal – it’s part of your family. So when these animals are suffering, it’s these people [from the Humane Society] that make their lives better.”
Thunder from Down Under is a phenomenon that has made its mark on five continents and dominates as one of Las Vegas’s top 10 shows, playing to 250,000 women a year at the Excalibur Hotel & Casino, where the dance troupe has a 16-year residency that is going strong. The group has entertained nearly four million fans across the globe to date.
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
APPROVED PHOTO & COVER ART FOR MEDIA USE (credit: Kerry Henderson):&#a0;
R5 recently released the music video for new track Éc;Hurts Good.Éd;&#a0;With itߣs disco influences, R5 took to the dance floor for the simple, seductive video directed by Drew Kirsch (AFI, Blackbear).&#a0;Upon itߣs release, the video instantly became a top trending video on YouTube.&#a0;
&#a0;Éc;Hurts GoodÉd; was co-written by brothers Ross and Rocky Lynch and R5 drummer Ellington Ratliff, and produced by Rocky Lynch and Pete Nappi, is available now at all digital providers HERE and all streaming providers HERE;
