Adventures in LaLaLand

D-Day

2008-03-05T13:50:00.000-08:00

Well, after much deliberation, I've decided to end my blog. I know, I promised last month that I wouldn't - and for those of you that will be disappointed, I'm really sorry. I've weighed the pro's and con's, and now that I have some business opportunities on the table, I think it's in my best interest to keep a lower profile for a bit. For those people that read this regularly, please be in touch via email. I'm happy to share my crazy and funny stories whenever I can. There may be a new blog again in the future, so I'll be sure to keep you updated moving forward if that should happen. I'll also keep this blog online for the next 6 months if you want to go back and read prior entries.

And so the LA Chapter 'officially' ends. It was a great one, and I am so thankful for all of these experiences. What's in store next - who knows! But you and I both know that it's bound to be exciting. After all, if you can't make life exciting, then it's not worth living, right?

Signing off with much love to my dedicated readers ~ Hugs and Kisses ~ Cmorg

Penelope Articles

2008-02-28T10:25:00.001-08:00

Whew, this seems like a long time ago. The features on Penelope are finally out! Mine got hacked down by about 800 words, because an interview with Reese Witherspoon opened up for another one of our writers. Well...it's understandable. Reese always steals the show. This movie, by the way, is adorable. I was really surprised at how much I liked it. It's great for kids too.

Here is the feature on Reese that Leslie did; I love that she highlights the Type A personality, I am SO type A myself:
click here

And here is my add-on: click here

Jimmy Strikes Back

2008-02-25T17:19:00.001-08:00

And the rebuttal - what do you think? What an amazing cast of characters - Josh Groban and McLovin? Sweet.

Oscar Watch

2008-02-24T21:27:00.000-08:00

The ceremony ended an hour ago, and most of you have fallen off to sleep. I've finally cleaned up after my Oscar party, and am hear to give you my thoughts on what was overall a pretty great evening.

We'll be hearing loads of feedback tomorrow about the best and worst dressed, so here is my top 5 in each category -

Best Dressed:
#5 Penelope Cruz
#4 Cameron Diaz
#3 Keri Russell
#2 Jessica Alba
#1 Jennifer Garner

Worst Dressed:
#5 Renee Zellweger
#4 Ellen Page
#3 Jennifer Hudson
#2 Diablo Cody
#1 Tilda Swinton

Other rambling thoughts from the night. The whole Gary Busey episode on the red carpet was ridiculous - was he on drugs? I love Ryan Seacrest for the way that he handled it.

What was wet on stage? At least 3 people referenced something being slippy on the floor. People, it's the Oscars - do you know how much shit you'll be in if one of those A List actresses falls on her ass in front of billions of people? Whew, we are lucky that did not happen.

Sadly, I thought that the writing would have been a bit better, especially after the recent strike end. SNL was great this week, and I was expecting something of a similar caliber.

And finally, I'd like to give my sincerest congratulations to Scott Rudin, as he finally won his first Oscar after producing a long line of Oscar worthy films. IMDB Link Here For those of you that don't know, I interned for Scott in the summer of 2001, and although he is a VERY difficult man to work for, he's a complete genius and I can't think of anyone else in the industry that deserves that gold little man on their mantle. (And yes, in seeing him on stage accepting the award for Best Picture, I had a moment tonight where I was wowed at how awesome my life has been so far...)

Congrats to all of the winners!!!

FINALLY, someone makes some sense

2008-02-14T11:36:00.000-08:00

Thank you Ferras, THANK YOU.

Grammy Turns 50

2008-02-11T16:04:00.000-08:00

After thoroughly thinking it over, I only have three comments from last night's Grammy Awards ceremony:

3. Amy: Please go back to Rehab. You are such a freak show, last night proved this.

2. Beyonce: If Tina Turner has skinnier legs than you, it might be time to hit the gym. Hey, I'm not perfect either, but I'm also not a superstar celebrity that has trainers and personal chefs following me around. Start doing some squats girl.

1. Vince Gill, you are my hero. Way to stick it to Kanye. You completely just put yourself on the map as far as I'm concerned.

Google

2008-02-10T21:18:00.000-08:00

Do you google yourself? I usually do not. However, I did once before, and when I realized now that I put stuff all over the Internet for both work and play, I decided to do it again tonight. Googling always works in 3 phases:

Phase 1: First + Last Name Only - this proves to be slightly disastrous because if you have a common name like mine, you might only find one or two things that are relevant.

Phase 2: First + Middle Initial + Last Name - A bit better, I come up first on the list... but good god, there are still a lot of me!

Phase 3: First + Middle + Last Names spelled out - 1 entry (damn proud of it too if I must say).

Here's the funny thing though - Phase 1 is the best, because you get to see what all the other people are doing with your name. Apparently, I am also an actress because I'm listed as one on IMDB. Sweet. I am also a news anchor, have a gospel video on MySpace's YouTube, and am some sort of stunt double in Hollywood.

Well, it looks like those people blessed with my name are doing great things. What are your "name doubles" doing??? (AN - I know that you definitely do not have any!!!)

TMZ

2008-02-07T13:18:00.001-08:00

OK, I admit it - now that I'm working from home, TMZ is a damn good guilty pleasure everyday at 4pm. It's like I never left West Hollywood. And somehow it also makes me thankful that I did.

Who is your favorite TMZ staff member in the gossip room? I love the dude with the long blonde hair, I think he's hilarious, and I also like that guy with the short spiky hair. He's weirdly hot. And does anyone know the blonde girl that stands in the back that wears a Penn State sweatshirt once a week? I feel like someone we know must know who she is... take a look next time it's on.

Across the Universe

2008-02-04T17:37:00.000-08:00

Today marks the 40th anniversary of the song "Across the Universe" by the Beatles. Check out what NASA did! We Still Love The Beatles

Sarah Silverman on Kimmel

2008-02-01T13:30:00.001-08:00

This is hilarious. I have a newfound respect for both Sarah and Matt. You have to check this out if you missed it!

Crack the Code

2008-01-31T14:59:00.001-08:00

OK, I know that this is for my own security, but I'm really fed up with those stupid online codes that you have to fill out to post something on a website, or check your credit card statement, or whatever. You know the ones that say "For security measures, please enter this code: zk6r29l" But the problem is that the freaking code is all morphed and twisted, so a normal human being can't even tell what the letters or numbers are! The whole point of them is to make sure that it's a person on the other end, but I just don't understand why they make it so damn hard.

Caroline Speaks Out

2008-01-27T15:23:00.000-08:00

So many Hollywood stars have been seen out recently endorsing the Presidential candidates. The latest article by Caroline Kennedy reveals that she is backing up Obama, and she boldly compares him to her father in the 60's. Now, I was backing Obama long before this article came out (I agree with her in that I think he is the only person right now that is going to make the major changes that we need in this country). This article just brings it into perspective even more for me. Anyway, Republican or Democrat, it's worth a look: NY Times

The Next Roeper

2008-01-27T15:15:00.000-08:00

I recently got contacted by a publicist after my interview with the cast of Penelope and seeing the film. You know how when you watch the ads on TV for a movie, they always have quotes from various film critics? Like "Thrilling Performances," "We have 27 more reasons to love Katherine Heigl," "Two thumbs up!" Ha, well they asked me for one for Penelope. "Ms. Morgan, we are looking for some quotes on the film. Do you have any that you would like to share?" I almost started laughing because I guess I just never considered myself 'quote worthy.' There's a first time for everything I guess. Look for a quote by Campus Circle in the press when the film comes out at the end of February. I don't know if they'll use it, but I did give them one :) Really, if it goes up there in the ad, I need to start taking myself more seriously!

The Eye of the Hurricane

2008-01-21T20:40:00.000-08:00

OK, speaking of Britney, did anyone else watch the video posted on PerezHilton.com titled 'The Eye of the Hurricane?' It just makes me fall in love even more with Perez. He screamed like a little girl when he saw the pop princess! Check it out if you haven't seen it yet.

I almost forgot to tell everyone, but I actually emailed Perez after he recently did an article with Campus Circle. click here My editor, Jessica, interviewed him, and I sent a note afterwards to him on Facebook (we are friends on there) thanking him as one of the writers of CC and of course praising him for being so fabulous. I didn't expect anything back, but he totally replied, thanked me for writing, and said that CC is such a rockin' newspaper, that he picks one up every week in LA. (WHOA REALITY CHECK, Perez Hilton reads things that I write. Deep breath).

Alright, now, whether it was really him or his assistant replying, I don't know. But I'd like to think it was him and I just think that's really cool either way. He loves his fans and is still trying to keep it real.

Perez, you are the best. We seriously love you more than life itself, and can't even remember life before you came into it. (Golf claps)

Britney Sure is Lucky

2008-01-21T20:27:00.000-08:00

I was at the gym today, and my iPod was on shuffle. The song, Lucky, by Britney Spears came on. It's on her greatest hits album, it's not entirely a horrible tune. But as I listened to it, I just thought about how even though it was made so long ago that it basically spells out her whole life. I did some research today, and Brit in fact did not write Lucky. I guess I just found the whole thing ironic though. Listen to the lyrics, you'll see what I mean.

One source said that a suicide note was found when she was rushed to the hospital last week. I believe it. I think she's going to overdose soon, although I do hope that really doesn't happen. Brit, I'm still pulling for you. You gotta get it together babe.

Sundance, Sundance!

2008-01-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

Don't forget to check out Perez for all the latest from Park City, Utah. The Sundance Film Festival started yesterday, and I can officially say (from experience, I'm extremely lucky) that it's one of the coolest events ever to be held. You can follow all of the films and the competitions online at click here. I wonder who is going to hook up on the slopes this year??

Why don't you join a dating website???

2008-01-18T12:32:00.000-08:00

I HATE dating websites. They freak me out, and I understand that a lot of people use them now, but I really just think that they are hilarious above all. I am proud to say that I've never used one. People ask why? Well let's take a look at the following Craigslist (which is the funniest by the way) posting. Here is the ad:

Let's face it...Craigslist ain't exactly an Armani catalogue. While there may be a few "tall drinks of water" here and there, I'd be remiss if i didn't consider myself the most attractive man on this site.

And money? Well after my trust fund matured in July, I finally have the means to treat myself and a lovely young women to the finer items in life. Suffering from shin splints because of your roadside jogging routine? Well honey I will BUY you a treadmill. Feeling self-conscious about fitting into that new dress? Then a membership to Jenny Craig you shall have. It's that simple.

If you consider these character traits as slightly materialistic, then you're just in denial sweetheart. I'm here to make you happy. It's just coincidental that I look soooo incredibly good doing it.

Enjoy this sunset. My family owns it.

I give props to this guy, hopefully he'll find a girl that enjoys his sense of humor!

Waxing at SuperCuts

2008-01-18T11:50:00.000-08:00

Now I've seen it all. SUPERCUTS is advertising that they do waxing. Now, personally, I'm afraid to even get my bangs cut at SUPERCUTS. I did this once, and ended up looking like Jim Carey in Dumb and Dumber. I'm assuming that this means that they do eyebrow waxing, and I'm praying nothing else. I'm sure it's only like $5, but come on... there is no way I'd ever let one of those chicks touch anything below my brows with their cheap goo. If anyone has the guts to try it, please let me know how this goes. I feel like it would be a great episode of True Life on MTV. Maybe we can sign you up. True Life: I got a bikini wax at SUPERCUTS.

My Feature on Katie is Out!

2008-01-16T10:59:00.001-08:00

Yay, this is my 200th post! And what better way to celebrate than let you know that my interview with Katie is out! click here to read it!

27 Dresses releases this weekend nationwide. It's a completely predictable romantic comedy, but I recommend it for anyone that has ever been a bridesmaid.

Julie, thank you so much for teaching me how to put the URL link on here now for the articles, you are the best!

The Writer's Strike: Take Note

2008-01-14T10:06:00.000-08:00

When I lived in LA, it was hard not to notice the writer's strike going on. It was everywhere, and it impacted everyone living in that city. I think that last night, the strike was finally noticed by the rest of the country due to the fact that the Golden Globes weren't shown. And now, I think that more people will take note. An article came out today confirming that ABC has dropped some of their key writers. And this is only the start. Many people don't realize it yet, but this is the beginning of a huge change in entertainment. Our favorite shows might be soon gone, reality TV is going to take over more than it already has, and creativity has basically been halted to a full stop.

To read more about ABC and it's latest cuts: http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117978950.html?categoryid=2821&cs=1

This is also a long, but great article by one of the writers explaining why they are on strike. I think it's good to read if you aren't sure why these people are doing what they are... a writer's life isn't as glamorous as one might think.

Why We’re On Strike
A screenwriter on Hollywood's labor pains.
By Douglas McGrath

"...Certainly some writers do well for themselves. But it is not the norm: at any given point in a year, a little more than half of all film and TV writers are unemployed. Some of these writers are unemployed because they're not very good. But even for good writers, with track records and connections and the appropriately hip eyewear, there are many obstacles to financial comfort. There are long gaps between jobs; no one buys the movie you spent six months writing; you're a sitcom writer and the public's taste favors police procedurals—or vice versa; or you finally get a show on and you're scheduled opposite "American Idol." This is all part of the game, and no one expects it to be any different. The thing that gets you through these fallow periods is the residual. residual is like an author's royalty. We are paid them whenever our work is shown on TV. They are a key part of how a writer survives between jobs, and it is an eminently fair idea: when the network (or studio) makes money off our work, so do we. If nobody airs your show or reruns your movie, there is no residual. If the network isn't making money off it, neither are we.

The residual has been established practice since 1960, when the Writers Guild first went on strike for it. Before that no one was given residuals. The writers of the imperishably entertaining "I Love Lucy," a show that has run without stop, making hundreds of millions of dollars for its owners, have never received royalties for that work. Nor have the writers of that other masterpiece of '50s home life, "The Honeymooners." The networks argued then that there was no precedent for it, that the medium was too new. To the studios the idea of equitable payment for writers always seems new.

But peace was made, after the sacrifices of the dedicated people in that strike, and a formula was set that worked for a long time. When video came into being, a new accommodation was made, allowing a small residual for tapes and then DVDs. I am not being hyperbolic when I say "small." For a DVD sold for $19.99, we are paid 4 cents. To put that in perspective, that means that to pay for one tank of gas, a writer needs to sell 1,500 DVDs. To put it another way, it's a penny less than if we returned an empty can of Coke. We negotiated this formula for DVDs back in 1988, and I think most members of the guild agree that in terms of desired do-overs, it ranks with President Bush's decision to award L. Paul Bremer the Presidential Medal of Freedom. We had been asked by the studios to take a smaller share than we wanted because the video market was new and uncertain and our doing so would help grow the industry. (It sure did. That sector of the industry has boomed, helping many studios coast through bad years on the strength of their video libraries.) To redress what most writers feel was a bad deal, we have asked in this negotiation for 4 more cents per DVD—requiring only the sale of 750 DVDs to fill our gas tanks.

But there is a much bigger issue at stake, because it concerns where the future—and a good deal of the present—is: the Internet. The studios can now sell you a movie, or an episode of a TV series, or a whole series of series, right over your computer. Not only is it convenient for you, it has dramatically reduced the studios' costs: they need not make a videotape, with its plastics and tape and spools and boxes. They need not print and package a DVD, with their team of overzealous shrink-wrappers that make your average DVD harder to get into than Princeton. They have no shipping costs, no storage costs, only the movie or TV show that already exists.

With their costs substantially reduced, this would be the right time to correct the old imbalance of the DVD rate and give writers a share more fairly in line with the level of our contribution. But the studios are not looking to find a more equitable residual rate—it seems they are hoping that the new media will allow them to do away with the idea of residuals altogether. Right now, if you go online and watch a streaming version of a TV show, the company that owns that property is getting paid by the advertisers whose commercials appear at the top of it. Just like TV, but with one difference: the writers are paid no residual, not even the four cents. The companies say they don't need to pay us for this: it's "promotional." By that I suppose they mean that it promotes the size of their earnings from smaller to larger.

The companies keep saying, "We don't know yet what the new media is." But the concept is very old: movies and TV shows will appear on a screen of some sort (TV, computer, iPod, phone) and people will pay to watch them, either through a direct downloading fee or by watching ads. The companies will make money doing it; otherwise they will not do it. If the companies really thought there was no money to be made in "new media," they'd give us a percentage of it. (Anyone who doubts the companies' faith in the money-making opportunities of the Internet should go to YouTube and look at "Voices of Uncertainty," a pricelessly droll exposure of the way the moguls say one thing to their stockholders and another to us.)

Some friends have asked me, "You'll still have your residuals from TV—isn't the Internet just extra?" But that's the sleight of hand at work here: because of the Internet, networks rerun shows far less often than they used to and put them on the Internet instead, where they can be streamed and bought. There is no contract or definition yet of how we should be paid for that."

Small Town Mentality? Does it Exist?

2008-01-14T08:54:00.000-08:00

I don't know if you have ever seen the show, but I kinda feel like that guy in October Road. You know, he's a writer, and he leaves his hometown and then comes back ten years later after writing a book about all of his friends. Everyone's pissed at him for leaving and turning his back on everyone. Well, I never wrote a book, but I can say that there is this undeniable weirdness that people from a small town can sometimes place on a person that has left for the big city. I am VERY lucky in that I have a solid group of about ten friends that have never turned their back on me, but sometimes with other people, I can feel the vibe piercing through me like taser gun the second we start to talk.

People grow and change in different ways through time, and of course in different places. I guess the true test of friendship is to see if you grow together, or grow apart...or even grow on your own for a while, and then reconnect.

At least I never wrote a book! You can all thank for me for that later.

The Verdict

2008-01-14T08:52:00.000-08:00

Today, I received this email from a confidential reader: "I haven’t got time to set up an account to send you a comment but I want you to know I will be DEVASTATED if you shut down your blog!"

Wow, devastated is a strong word. OK, I will not shut down the blog. I may start a new one titled "cmorgintheburgh" but I'll at least wait to see if I stay. So that's the verdict!

New Endeavors

2008-01-08T20:28:00.001-08:00

I just realized that I never posted anything about my new freelance writing job on here. Well, now that I am back East, I am going to be doing work for an excellent publication (as well as continuing to do work for Campus Circle and Relate Magazine).
It is an online entertainment website that has over 23 million readers online. It's called UPBEAT Online, and can be found at http://www.2upbeatmag.com

Flash Forward: 4 Years

2008-01-08T20:13:00.001-08:00

Did anyone watch the season Premiere of One Tree Hill tonight? Good grief, are they serious? So it's supposed to be exactly 4 years from when the gang graduated from high school. And one got drafted to an NBA team, one published a book, one became President of a major fashion line, and the other moved to a ridiculous apartment on the Sunset Strip even though she was failing miserably. I don't know about the rest of you, but my friends totally did all of this while in college. I mean, in all truthfulness, we are all rock stars now that we're out of college, but these writers have really got to be kidding thinking that this is realistic in any sense. It just paints such a false reality for all of the young people that watch it.

By the way, I guess I know now why I saw Peyton parked on my street a few months ago. All of those shots in the first episode were a block from my old apartment. Oh Sunset Strip, I miss you, but just a little bit.

Happy New Year!

2007-12-30T18:16:00.000-08:00

Well as 2007 comes to a close, I'd just like to wish everyone a Happy 2008. 2007 has been very exciting for most of the people around me. Lots of changes are taking place, and excitement is on the menu for what's to come.

Enjoy your NYE, and remember to drink lots of champagne - it wouldn't be a proper holiday without some bubbly. Cheers!

The Top Ten Things That I'll Miss in LA

2007-12-22T15:33:00.000-08:00

10. The avocados
9. The boutiques along Melrose
8. Runyon Canyon (and the view from the top)
7. Class at The Coffee Bean
6. South Bay Sunsets @ Happy Hour
5. Running in the 90210 on the weekends
4. Outdoor Malls and Farmer's Markets
3. In-and-Out Burger
2. Celebrity sightings
1. My awesome friends here

Why?

2007-12-20T12:37:00.000-08:00

Everyone in LA asks this question when you decide to leave - WHY? No one understands it. The sunshine, the incredibly good looking people, the beaches, and the smell of fresh flowers when you walk down the street.

Making the decision to leave LA for me was like breaking up with a long term boyfriend. In the long run, you know that it's not right for you...that it's just not meant to be. And if there is no future in this, then why do it anymore. I mean there is no point, right? But it's just so damn hard to end things. I mean you wake up one morning, and realize how gorgeous they are...how much fun you have with them - it becomes addicting and makes it extremely hard to leave. Tears ensue, you question everything, and finally one day, the axe comes crashing down.

Will I miss LA? Like an ex, LA will leave an impression on me for a lifetime. I will miss it SO much. The things that I've learned from the experience can't compare to anything else in my life, and I can say this with true confidence: LA was the best thing that ever happened to me. After busting my ass in grad school and dealing with ridiculous medical issues (at the same time), LA gave me a clean break and allowed me to piece my life back together after it had fallen apart. And let's not forget that I never would have found my future career if I hadn't started this blog. It's funny how life works out.

But hey, I'm still here for 3 more days. So it's not over yet! Stay tuned...

OK, so it's 100% Official

2007-12-20T12:34:00.000-08:00

For those of you that don't know, I'm moving back East. There was a lot of flip-flopping involved with this decision, so I didn't actually want to put it in writing until the movers actually came and took my stuff. Yikes, and they actually did. So it's official, I'll be back on Sunday.

This brings me to a great point... what the hell am I going to call my blog now? Am I going to have a blog? Am I going to start a new blog? I need some feedback here, so please leave it in the comments section!

Spice Up Your Life

2007-12-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

It's about damn time. The Spice Girls are back together and recently hit LA for the kickoff of their world tour. I love them. I went to see a Spice Girls concert back in '98. They were fantastic, and I can imagine that they would be just as great today. Thank goodness for reunions. Come on, you cannot tell me that Spice Up Your Life is not the best work out song ever! La La La, La La La La La La....

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-12-16T20:24:00.001-08:00

I guess the powers that be didn't think that interviewing 4 A-List celebrities was enough for me in one day. So as I networked my butt off with other members of the entertainment press at the bar at the Four Seasons following all of our interviews, we were blessed with the presence of Sienna Miller. She sat at the bar, looking fabulous with a scarf on her head. Remember when I threatened to fight her after the Pittsburgh comment? Um, yeah right. She's so perfect that I could never do it. (I also just heard from a source last weekend that the racy sex scene in Factory Girl is real - they were actually having sex. Yowza).

By the way, I had to go to the bathroom Saturday and look in the mirror and actually say "is this my life? YES."
God, I love it so much.

The Full Report

2007-12-16T19:58:00.001-08:00

OK, so I've been covering movies and press junkets for the past nine months, but this past weekend I really went out with a bang. FOX held a double feature screening on Friday night on their lot in the Zanuck Theater - first 27 Dresses and then Penelope. Saturday an international press conference was held at the Four Seasons for 27 Dresses, and afterwards roundtables for Penelope. What a day is all that I can say...

Katherine Heigl stars in 27 Dresses - Always a Bridesmaid, Never a Bride!
Let's start with 27 Dresses. The film is cute, but totally cheesy. I'm sure that everyone will see it, but I felt a bit disappointed in it. It basically took every cliche from other romantic comedies that we know and wrapped it all up in one film. The interviews on Saturday were with Ed Burns and Katherine Heigl. James Marsden apparently got stuck in the snow somewhere (James, I am still so mad at you, I totally wanted to belt out Hairspray tunes with you). THE SCOOP: Katherine Heigl, although getting some bad press lately, is NOT a bitch at all. In fact, I think that she is now my favorite celebrity that I've met. Very personable, friendly, and likable. We hit it off because I explained to her that I am totally that single girl that always either ends up being a bridesmaid or at 20 weddings every year. She's a total knockout, yet not too full of herself. Ed Burns was also very nice and charming - I guess you'd have to be if you were married to Christy Turlington, right? Did I get to ask them questions? Of course. Am I going to tell you all about it? Well certainly not because then you won't read my review when it comes out in January!
Ed Burns, 27 Dresses

Penelope shocked me. I didn't know much about the film to begin with, and thought that a movie about a girl with a pig nose was bound to be a failure. The film, which is the first independent film produced by Reese Witherspoon's Type A Productions, is a heart warming tale that will win over people worldwide. It has a great message and all-star cast. And I totally have the biggest crush on James McAvoy now.
Christina Ricci stars in Penelope

THE SCOOP: I had intimate roundtable interviews with Christina Ricci, Catherine O'Hara, Director Mark Palansky, and producers Jennifer Simpson, Scott Steindorff, and Dylan Russell. Christina Ricci just chopped her hair (for Speedracer) and dyed it very light brown. She looks good, and was very nice. Not as personable as Katherine, but I wasn't really surprised by that. Christina has a unique personality and we can see this in her film choices. Catherine O'Hara is hilarious, I couldn't stop laughing around her...and having the chance to talk closely with both the director and producers was really interesting. I love hearing how everything came together and the challenges faced on the set. Did I ask them questions? Of course. Am I going to tell you all about it? Well certainly not because then you won't read my review when it comes out in February!
Catherine O'Hara, Penelope
Penelope Director, Mark Palansky

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-12-13T22:28:00.000-08:00

Do I have some Gossip for you! Saturday afternoon at Basix Cafe in West Hollywood, Blake Lively was seen with a really hot guy and was wearing huge pink sunglasses as she sat on their outside patio for brunch. I couldn't help but stare at her a little between bites of my eggs benedict - she's absolutely gorgeous. Her breakout role was in The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants, but we now know her as the star of Gossip Girl. I will admit...I watched the first episode of Gossip Girl this year, and hated it. But as I've seen a few more episodes, it has grown on me. Blake used to bother me because I always felt like she was talking like she had a mouth guard in her mouth. (Seriously, listen next time). But now I don't notice as much. This probably means that A. she is working with a speech coach or 2. I am completely just brainwashed by the CW.

Addicted to The Hills

2007-12-10T19:48:00.000-08:00

Yes, many of us are addicted to the show on MTV. But I'm talking now about the real thing. The Hollywood Hills, although a strange and sort of mysterious place, can be very addicting. I spent this past Saturday night out with friends at 3 different parties in the Hills. The second was so exclusive that we had to park our car somewhere and then take a shuttle past a blocked off entrance. Seriously, only in Hollywood. Check out the picture of this house that we hung out at - Addicting views? Yes. Unbelievable!

Interviews this Week!

2007-12-09T19:26:00.000-08:00

OK, I know - I didn't write on my blog for a couple of weeks. But I'm here to tell you that I have a story that was worth the wait. This week, I have two great interviews lined up: Christina Ricci (for her new film Penelope) and Katherine Heigl (for her new film 27 Dresses).

Um, hello - my life is awesome. I love both of these women, so of course I'm nervous and thrilled at the same time. I'm really excited to screen 27 Dresses before it comes out because it's all about being a bridesmaid when you are still single. Ha, welcome to my life!

Does anyone have any yearning questions that they would like me to ask these two Hollywood Starlets???

Let me know before Friday if you do.

Random Thoughts by CMorg

2007-12-09T19:10:00.001-08:00

Wow, I have been really bad about keeping up with my blog lately. Apologies to all. There are some random things that have popped into my mind lately, so here goes:

Isn't it great to be the table at the restaurant that is having the most fun? You know, everyone is laughing so hard and having such a great time that other patrons around you feel completely jealous and like something is missing in their life. I love when this happens and I am part of that table.

Last year, I found it depressing to see Christmas lights on Palm trees and boats. For some reason this year, I now find it to be fantastic. What a difference a year can make. Maybe I got over the LA slump?

It's nice to live in a city that has old theaters that still show the classics...and by classics, I mean movies like Ghostbusters. More cities should do this outside of LA and New York.

Europeans have a funny habit. They'll wear the same outfit 3 days in a row. It baffles me, but I see it all the time in my school. This would never be OK in the US. Americans are all way too judgemental.

Everyone should download the song "Such Great Heights" by The Postal Service into their iPods. Just listen to it through your headphones, and you will be so glad that I told you this.

Speaking of iPods, I've decided that popular songs that I download have a curse against them...because usually as soon as I muster up the $1 to put them into a playlist, I then decide that the song is way too played out. Figures.

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-11-26T22:16:00.000-08:00

I went to get a pedicure yesterday at my favorite spot, Planet Nails on Santa Monica Blvd., and Ian Ziering was there. He wasn't haven't a mani or pedi, but was with a male friend that was getting a manicure. He looked really good, and had these grey tight camoflage pants on...I guess that Dancing with the Stars inspired his look a bit? He's come a long way from Kappa Epsilon Gamma on 90210.

A Critic of Global Warming?

2007-11-26T22:15:00.000-08:00

You know that the environment is getting bad, when you see a sign that says this hanging up in school:

DUE TO GLOBAL WARMING, SURF LESSONS WILL BE OFFERED THROUGH DECEMBER. SIGN UP IN THE ACTIVITIES OFFICE!

Destination: Austin

2007-11-18T22:15:00.000-08:00

I went to Austin this past weekend, and can't say enough good things about it. The capital of live music, it is a hip and hot city.

I spent way too much money on my first pair of authentic cowboy boots, but they will certainly be a great souvenir :)

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-11-09T15:04:00.000-08:00

This week I had tonsillitis and missed 4 days of work. Today, in complete disarray, I walked to my doctor's office to get more tests done. Standing at the corner of Doheny and Sunset, I spotted Ashton Kutcher sitting at the corner in a new Tahoe. I know that people outside of LA don't understand this, but when you have these moments in this town, and you and a celeb are the only two people around, you make eye contact just like you would with anyone else. All I could hear in my head was that guy from the style network that says "NEVER leave your house without looking CUTE ladies, because you never know who you will see!" Man was he right. Needless to say, being sick, I looked hideous in my two sizes too big jeans, ratty sweatshirt, and no make-up. He, on the other hand, looked smokin' and smiled despite my awful appearance. I know, he does have Demi, but you cannot get these moments back people. All I was thinking was "why did you not at least put lip gloss on??" And, it's a shame because I have a thing for Ashton. There is something about him - the way he wears a baseball cap I think - that drives me nuts. I'd love to punk him given any chance possible.

Hollywood marriages are volatile... next time, I'll be ready.

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-11-04T19:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, when out at Barney's for the Penn State game with the crew, we spotted Benjamin McKenzie watching football with a friend. I am a huge fan of The OC (and he is super hot), so this was very exciting. My guy friends totally embarrassed me though because they bought their table a round of drinks and then said that they were from me. So Ben politely thanked me, shot the shit for a couple of minutes and took a picture. He is a big Texas fan. I think that we make a cute couple, no?

Pictures from Seattle and Portland

2007-11-04T19:49:00.001-08:00

The pictures from Seattle and Portland are now posted on my facebook account - even if you aren't a member, you can check them out here through the following link:
http://upenn.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2120606&l=c110c&id=610289

It was such a gorgeous weekend, we were so lucky to have 3 perfect fall days!

Beauty Confidential: The No Preaching, No Lies, Advice-You'll-Actually-Use Guide to Looking Your Best

2007-11-04T19:31:00.000-08:00

I made a new friend out here in LA a few months ago through Facebook. To those people that hate networking sites, this is an example of how they can help you with your career. On Facebook, I am a member of the Ivy Alumni group, and a girl my age posted a comment saying that she was moving to LA from London and looking to meet new people. Being the socialite that I am, I emailed her and we ended up meeting for drinks and some laughs.

When working for Ladies Home Journal in New York after graduating from Columbia, Nadine started a blog. On it, she revealed some insider information as to what happens behind company doors in the fashion industry. She was fired immediately when exposed, but because of all of the press around it, William Morris picked her up and she signed a two book deal with Harper Collins. This girl is pretty much my idol, and I would love to follow in her footsteps. She got lucky, but she is also very talented, and it was through her advice that I got my latest job with Relate Magazine.

This week, Nadine's first book came out! She was on The Today Show Thursday if anyone saw it. You can buy her book, Beauty Confidential: The No Preaching, No Lies, Advice-You'll-Actually-Use Guide to Looking Your Best on amazon.com or in book stores nationwide.

She also has a blog, that is SO MUCH better than mine. So for those of you that love to waste time at work, here is another site to read regularly. Once you check out Jolie, you'll probably never want to read my blog again ;)

Here is the link: http://jolienyc.com/

Relate Magazine

2007-11-04T19:25:00.000-08:00

I have exciting news! I have gotten another freelance writing job, this time for a publication called Relate Magazine. The publication targets young girls, ages 13-21. It's a good, clean magazine - an alternative to some of the things that you might find in Cosmo. I'll be covering issues from fashion to beauty to boys.

My first assignment was to cover a young fashion designer living in Portland. Her name is Christa Taylor and she is designing a clothing line that is chic without being slutty. I interviewed her and she is an amazing young girl. Here is the link to my article: http://www.relatemag.com/magazine.aspx?nav=design&Page=Dedicated%20Designer

You can also check out www.christa-taylor.com to see some of Christa's Fall picks, or join her facebook group "Christa Taylor Fashions" for more information.

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-11-04T19:16:00.000-08:00

As you might remember from last year, the city of West Hollywood hosts the largest Halloween party in the world. All of the streets are shut down, concert stages are set up, and everyone gets decked out for a night on the town. This year, Hanson performed on one of the concert stages. At first, we thought "this is West Hollywood for god's sake, couldn't they get anyone better?" But later that night, we were blown away by Hanson and their performances. OK, let's talk a minute about the Hanson brothers and why everyone should still love them...

1. The Hanson brothers are grown up. They aren't youngsters anymore, and they are HOT. Seriously, I almost threw my bra at the lead singer, he was so dreamy.
2. They all have brown hair now - you really wouldn't even know that they were Hanson. It works for them.
3. They also performed in Halloween costumes, which made the show that much more entertaining. Elvis, Captain Hook, and a Jedi. Just picture MMM Bop in this setting. It was amazing.

Here is a picture to show you just how great Hanson still is. I am again a devoted fan, and encourage you to join the fan club.

Darfur Now

2007-10-31T16:48:00.000-07:00

If you don't know what is going on in Sudan, you should be ashamed of yourself. Finally, Hollywood has provided you with a good way to do it if you are lazy and opt not to read the news on a regular basis. I like Don Cheadle, and now even more so:

http://www.campuscircle.com/review.cfm?r=4269

You can also check out myspace if you want to support the fight against the genocide @ www.myspace.com/darfurnow

Destination: Seattle and Portland

2007-10-25T21:01:00.000-07:00

I'm headed to the Pacific Northwest for 3 days to check it out and see some cold weather. I also get to visit one of my close friends from growing up (T, I can't wait!), so it's going to be a blast. I'm packing my umbrella, but hoping that I won't need it. Details and pictures to follow next week.

Slipstream

2007-10-25T20:32:00.000-07:00

This movie sucked. There is no other way to say it. 1 in 10 people will like this movie because they will try to piece everything together, but it just gave me a headache...

So disappointing on Anthony Hopkins' part:

http://www.campuscircle.com/review.cfm?r=4244

Los Angeles is ON FIRE...again?

2007-10-23T21:51:00.000-07:00

To everyone that has called me and emailed me in the past two days, thank you. It's nice to be loved. But please don't worry, the fires in Los Angeles are not affecting where I live at all. At least not yet. What is happening though nearby is devastating, and we can only hope that the fires are contained soon. Of all places, Malibu (known as one of the most beautiful and ritzy areas of LA) has burnt to the ground. Other suburbs of Los Angeles, as well as San Diego, are next as the fire rages on with no intention of stopping.

I just dropped off 5 bags of clothing at the Good Will on Saturday, and now I am so happy that I did. I encourage everyone else to clean out their closets too. There are going to be a lot of people in need of help after this tragedy.

Movies Coming Out this Weekend!

2007-10-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to screen 3 movies that are coming out this weekend. There are two of my reviews below - one for Reservation Road, and the other for Things We Lost in the Fire. The other that I didn't write up, however, is worth seeing over the these two films...Gone Baby Gone. I saw Gone Baby Gone and thought it was one of the best movies that I've seen in a long time. Ben Affleck should be writing and directing, not acting. And Casey Affleck is such a bad ass, you will love him even more after seeing his performance. Go see it this weekend. Seriously, I strongly urge you to! You will not regret this decision!

As for my other reviews, check them out:
Reservation Road
http://www.campuscircle.com/review.cfm?r=4179

And Things We Lost in the Fire
http://www.campuscircle.com/review.cfm?r=4180

Top 5 Favorites

2007-10-09T20:36:00.001-07:00

I love asking people these questions:
What are your top 5 favorite _________???

You can fill in the blank with anything: bars, songs, movies, cities, celebs, people, etc.

So I'm now asking you - what are your top 5 favorites? The rule is that these 5 favorites do not have to be given in any order. There is no favoritism. I am challenging you to and encourage you to post your 'favs' for others to see...it can be any category that you like!

I'll start. Here are my top 5 favorite bars of all time, in no particular order:
The Peculiar Pub - New York, NY
Barney's Beanery - West Hollywood, CA
The Coogee Bay Hotel - Sydney, Australia
Cafe 210 - State College, PA
The Princeton - Avalon, NJ

See, it's easy. Give it a whirl.

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-10-05T13:18:00.001-07:00

Last night, I was lucky enough to co-host an Ivy Alumni Event at Ketchup here in Los Angeles. It was a success, and while hanging out and having a drink, we spotted David Spade eating a few tables away. In a plaid shirt, he seemed to be having a good time. He is really short, but you probably could have guessed that, right?

I want to get Caught in the Act with this guy.

2007-10-03T21:36:00.001-07:00

I am in love with Michael Buble. Not because he's a decent looking guy, but I think he's this generation's Frank Sinatra. Every single song he sings - I LOVE IT. No, let me rephrase that - I am obsessed with every single one. He makes me want to hold a dinner party for 50 people one day, and the next dance around in my underwear. I just needed to shout it from the rooftops!

Sunset Tan

2007-10-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

Who actually watches Sunset Tan? Anyone? I was watching it at the gym today because it's shot 3 blocks from my house. So obviously, I like to just check it out to see what sorts of things they film in West Hollywood. When people ask me "Why on earth would you ever want to leave LA??? The weather and everything is just so great here!" To them, I say: please watch Sunset Tan for 30 full minutes...then you will understand the dark side.

Premiere Week

2007-09-25T21:12:00.000-07:00

It's Premiere Week on TV!!! And I want to know - what is everyone watching this year? I am SO excited for the premiere of Brothers & Sisters this upcoming weekend. Grey's should be good, but I don't think that the spin off will be successful. Gossip Girl SUCKED, definitely no OC. I think that Dirty, Sexy, Money might be interesting and I'm definitely in for another season of Ugly Betty. Post some comments here if you have checked out any good shows or have recommendations based on what you see in the upcoming weeks!

Fire Alarms

2007-09-25T21:02:00.001-07:00

It's like the boy that cried wolf - the fire alarm goes off, and you don't even flinch. Is it a reaction from your freshman dorm as well, after countless people pulled the alarm drunk on the weekends? Maybe, you would just roll over and never think twice about it. But the other day I was in Bloomingdale's (shopping with JL obviously) when the alarm went off. We looked at each other and just kept shopping. But then I had a realization - what if it really was a fire? Was this my impending death? Clinging onto our Free People tops and Rock and Republic jeans, this would have been a sad way to go out. Or maybe not. I mean, thinking about more, if you are going to end up in a fire, I think that Bloomingdale's is where I would want it to be.

OK, OK, I know. Horrible thought. But don't worry, it was a false alarm. The only things burning that day were the holes in our pockets, and Bloomy's is still standing in one piece. But from now on, I'm going to make sure that I have at least one piece of designer clothing in my hands the next time I hear an alarm.

I LOVE MY FRIENDS

2007-09-18T22:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you for a ridiculously fun weekend. We are the best together, I wish weekends like this could happen all of the time!

Destination: Philadelphia

2007-09-11T15:16:00.001-07:00

One of my biggest blog fans is getting married this upcoming Friday in the City of Brotherly Love. As I finishing packing, and prepare for my red eye, I just wanted to wish her lots of luck for the big day. I am so ready for a 4 day vacation, I can hardly stand it. East Coast, here I come!

The VMA's

2007-09-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

What were we watching Sunday night?

OK, I know. Britney's performance was a disgrace. BUT, I will defend her because rumor has it that she heard Sarah Silverman rehearsing her set immediately before walking onto stage. I'd be pissed too if someone said that about my kids. But I'm not so much even concerned with the whole Britney performance, but more so with everything else associated with that show. The random shots of party suite #3,576? The white sunglasses? Everyone looking fat??

It was terrible. TERRIBLE. MTV, please fire the producers immediately and make sure that they never work again.

Ode to Barney

2007-09-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

Apparently, there once was a guy named Barney. He opened a restaurant on Route 66, and it today serves as the mecca of all sports bars right in the heart of West Hollywood. Los Angeles dwellers flock there to support their teams, and we decided this past Sunday, that there really is no place like it.

My friend JL and I have been making a list of "things that only happen in LA." And eating omelettes while watching the NFL kickoff its season is one of them. Barney, whoever you are, we would like to thank you -- not only for providing such a fantastic watering hole, but for bringing all of the hot sports fans of Los Angeles together every weekend.

Here's the real scoop on Barney's: Barney's Beanery opened in 1920 and since then has expanded, yet maintained it's original appeal to the public. Janis Joplin was rumored to have her last drink here, and some say that Jim Morrison lived in the upstairs apartment while on a bender. Jimi Hendrix used to dine at Barney's. The original hood over the stove that was used at Barney's over 80 years ago can still be seen in the restaurant. Known as the third oldest restaurant in the city of Los Angeles, the name Barney's Beanery was derived from the era of the depression when the restaurant used to serve beans on route 66.

The Networking Debate

2007-09-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

First there was Friendster. Then in grad school, Facebook blew up. But at that time, you could only be a member of Facebook if you had a college "edu" email address. So many educated twenty-somethings turned to MySpace.

Then something radical happened: Facebook opened up its membership to the public in September of this past year. And now, I think that many will agree with me when I say that Facebook is BACK, and better than ever.

A friend sent me this article below, and I find it very intriguing. It talks about the social classes of our country and how they are divided online. I believe what this student says is profoundly true. When I log into Facebook, I see my friends from UPenn, Harvard, and have access to the Ivy Alumni Network. When I log into MySpace, I see friends... but I also see pages filled with promotions and pages that can't load due to jumbled graphics, etc.

If you are interested in these networking sites, and the debate that compares them, check out this article at the following link:
http://www.danah.org/papers/essays/ClassDivisions.html

I am a HUGE believer in online networking in this day and age, so regardless of your online preferences, I think that it's important to be associated with at least one of the networking sites. It's important to make sure that you don't fall off the radar for social and career purposes.

I'm going to keep all of my accounts for the time being. But I will declare that Facebook has me back in a BIG way.

Skiddily Winks

2007-09-04T20:27:00.001-07:00

What exactly are skiddily winks? If you can answer this question, please contact me via comment immediately.

Skiddily. Skiddily. Skiddily.

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-09-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

I guess that I should have posted this a long time ago, but I didn't realize that it was such a big deal. Lemmy from Motorhead lives in my building. I thought, "OK cool - old rocker dude lives here, not a big deal considering that I live right near The Rainbow." But good god...when I told people at work about this, they FREAKED out. I actually also had one Axel Rose wannabe Italian student begging me on a daily basis for my address so that he could stalk him (and me for that matter, as I learned that he had a crush on me as well).

Well, the secret's out. I'm in #19, he's in #24. Come visit and make me pancakes if you would like to meet this rock legend for yourself.

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-08-27T18:34:00.000-07:00

This was a really shocking one to me. I was parking my car on my street and practically ran into Hilarie Burton from One Tree Hill. Now, I do live really close to Sunset Blvd. but it seemed weird to me that a star of this caliber would park on my street and not valet her car anywhere. I do know that there is an agency in the 9000 building, so maybe she was visiting her agent? OR maybe she was just visiting The Hustler Store. Yep, that must be it.

BREAKING NEWS: HILARIE BURTON VISITS HUSTLER AND PARKS ON RANDOM WEST HOLLYWOOD STREET TO AVOID SEX CRAZED REPUTATION.

Hil, you might have avoided US Weekly, but you can't hide from me. Have fun with your Rabbit.

Yosemite Article

2007-08-27T18:32:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is my article on Yosemite. My editor really liked it, and I must say, that I think it's one of my best so far. Maybe I should focus on just being a travel writer??? I could only dream of a job like that!

Travel tips and advice can be found at:

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3857

Chris and Thomas

2007-08-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

This is a cool CD to check out if you like Indie Bands. I'll be curious to see how popular they get after the release of this album. Here is the link to my review:

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3883

Let's Take a Moment for The Hills

2007-08-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

OK, so the 3rd season of The Hills started up this week, and I have to ask - What does everyone think so far? The engagement? The sex tape rumors? Jason's return? And seriously, can Audrina's teeth get any whiter?? I can already tell that this season has me locked in for the long run. I love this show mostly because they tape everything in West Hollywood, and it's pretty cool to see my neighborhood on TV. It looks like Les Deux is going to be the new Area, huh?

On another note, did you know that Heidi and Spencer are releasing a new song together? I'm serious. Ryan Seacrest debuted it (via special permission) on his radio show this morning. I'm pretty sure that we are all going to WANT to hate it... but guess what? It's really good. I can picture myself dancing like crazy two months from now when this song comes on in a bar. They must have had really good producers. The song is Heidi's but at the end, Spencer comes in and does this little 'rap' thing. This was unnecessary in my opinion. But, they have figured out how to work the public, and are going to cross-sell like crazy - so, I say, good for them.

Alamo Race Track

2007-08-16T08:54:00.001-07:00

This CD was tight. I would recommend it to those people interested in checking out a new sound - the songs all sound completely different though, so maybe it would be better to download the ones that you like from iTunes:

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3823

Destination: Palm Springs

2007-08-13T20:10:00.000-07:00

110 degree weather. Sand. Palm Trees. Pools. Margaritas. There is no better way to spend a birthday, that's for sure.

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-08-13T19:55:00.000-07:00

Well, we hung out with Willie Garson (aka Stanford from Sex in the City) Saturday night at a Hollywood house party, and he was a complete asshole. Way too full of himself we all decided. When someone let him know that it was my birthday, he looked at me and tried to be as rude as possible when saying "Really? Well, you don't look a day over 27." He meant it as an insult because I think he thought I was 21... but little does he know I'm actually 28, so I could have cared less about the comment. But, moral of the story is- get over yourself dude, because you aren't that big and I realized that I'm so much luckier than Carrie...my gay guy friends are so much cooler than you.

The Doorway! The Doorway!

2007-08-09T08:26:00.001-07:00

Well, I have officially survived my first major earthquake. There have been times before when I have felt my building shake a bit, but I always figured no big deal. They say that at least one small earthquake happens every single day in Southern California. Last night though was a different story! Just before 1am, I was woken up and felt like I was being shaken all around in my bed. I couldn't figure out if I was dreaming or what was going on because I was in such a deep slumber. But when I saw that a bottle of perfume had gone down on my dresser, I knew that it was for real. Just as I thought "get in the freaking doorway you idiot, this is actually happening" the shakes actually started to subside. I found the whole experience to be pretty exciting actually. I guess only because it was a 4.5, I can say this, but it's one more thing that I have survived!

Thank god it wasn't bigger, because I definitely don't have earthquake insurance! Here is a report of what happened, and a funny story about people who went to see a late night showing of Transformers:

http://laist.com/2007/08/09/now_that_was_a_1.php

Letter of Complaint

2007-08-08T20:04:00.001-07:00

Dear Lindsay,

I'm writing this letter to ask that you please stay in Long Island with your mother for as long as possible. You see, I'm a resident of West Hollywood, and I'm sick of having to dodge paparazzi on my way to Trader Joe's and Rite Aid. It's pretty dangerous. Quite frankly, I wish that I didn't have to take Sunset past the Chateau Marmont to run errands, but it's my only choice. I know that as a hip, busy girl, that you know what a pain in the ass this can be...There are so few hours in the day and it's a breath of fresh air not having to worry about traffic being backed up by your presence in our 'hood.

Respectfully Yours,
Christina Morgan

PS - If you could spread the word to Brit too, that would be sweet.

El Cantante

2007-08-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

The greatest thing about doing this movie review was my choice of a date to take to the screening. My good friend AP did not even mention to me until afterwards that her father was good friends with Hector Lavoe. She knew half of the people from the movie in real life from her childhood. I had no idea when I asked her to see the film with me. We called up her dad afterwards and she was like "Dad, seriously, I did not know that Eddie used drugs back in the day!!" This made the whole experience so much more fun, because she and her dad were able to tell me what the characters were like in real life, off-screen.

Check out my review: http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3755

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-07-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

Ashley Simpson caught in traffic on Sunset Boulevard. She was with a friend in a run-down Honda. Note to celebs: if you want to stay on the DL, go out in a regular car as opposed to your usual digs. I hardly noticed her in the passenger seat, but she seemed to be having fun laughing and singing a lot.

I was hoping that she would be with that eyeliner-wearing freak show of a boyfriend though. I would just really like to see that in person!

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-07-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

Natasha Richardson on the Pacific Beach Pier with two boys in San Diego this past weekend. She had a short, cute hair cut and looked like she was taking a well-deserved break from Hollywood. They were standing outside of one of those really quaint houses that you can actually rent for the night on the pier. Maybe a weekend family vacation? Seemed sort of strange though since Pacific Beach is one of the craziest (booze allowed on beach) surf scenes and was just below.

That Hollywood Sign

2007-07-25T19:46:00.000-07:00

Did you know that it is possible to change the Hollywood sign? It was only done once, by FOX, when the studio first opened. They changed HOLLYWOOD to read FOX for two weeks. The amount has not been disclosed as to how much it costs to do this, but it must cost a fortune.

Also, individual members of Hollywood own the letters in the HOLLYWOOD sign. The letters were originally purchased for $27,000. Can you guess who owns the H? It's none other than Hugh Hefner.

They have arrived!

2007-07-25T19:39:00.001-07:00

Well, it's the talk of the town. David, Victoria, and the rest of the Beckham's have finally arrived. Here is what we know far after their recent arrival to LA. The party to be at this past Sunday was held for the Beckham's by Will and Jada Pinkett Smith. Invitations were sent out on red velvet invitations with gold lettering. If you were not invited, it means that you are falling quickly on the social ladder. Also, inside reports have revealed that Paris Hilton extended a warm invitation to Posh to start a friendship over lunch. Victoria declined.

Goya's Ghosts

2007-07-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

OK, well Yosemite was a bit EXTREME to say the least. We hiked on Saturday for 7 hours, about the equivalent to 15 miles. 5 of those miles were completely vertical. This was the decision of the other people that I was with, and I was pretty much just along for the ride. I would say that at least 10 times during this particular hike, the words "hell.....HELL!!!" were running through my head. The weekend was worth it though, and I sent out pictures to most of you showing the spectacular views and sights.

On another note, below is a link to a film that I saw last month. My editor chopped this down from 400 words to 130 words, which I'm not happy about, but I guess they needed the space for advertising. Figures. This film was good, but I would wait until it comes out on DVD to see it:

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3695

Destination: Yosemite

2007-07-12T21:47:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I'll be taking a 3 day trip to Yosemite to camp out with friends and escape city life. This is something that I've been waiting for since day one in LA, so I'm really excited for this adventure. I'm actually on assignment too, as I'll be writing an article about visiting Yosemite and talking about all it has to offer for visitors: the best places to check out in the park, eat, drink, hike, etc.

That being said, there will be much more to come about this trip. But in the meantime, here is a lovely picture just to tease you with how I'll be spending my weekend.

Happy Anniversary!!

2007-07-08T19:13:00.000-07:00

To Me! It's been exactly one whole year since I arrived in Los Angeles. And what a year it has been (please see prior months if you are just tuning in...)

365 of the best days of my life, wouldn't have wanted it any other way!

And see, it does snow in the mountains. Check it out in the picture above.

Pasadena, The Rose Bowl, and The World's Greatest Flea Market

2007-07-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

This week, I made two trips out to Pasadena. Whoa, what took me so long?!? That place is fantastic. Old Town has a lot of character, and today I went to the huge Flea Market that is held once a month at the Rose Bowl. This is by far one of the country's hidden gems. This Flea Market was unreal. I love old, antique furniture and I was in heaven. I bought two great pieces, as well as some discounted clothing -- but I could have spent so much more money! If ever in LA on the second Sunday of the month, you must do this!!!

Hopefully, the next time I visit the Rose Bowl, Penn State will be there :)

Destination: San Diego

2007-07-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

Well, it only took me a year, but I finally made it down to San Diego. It's my second visit now to the 'little' city in California, and I just can't say enough about it. It's such a low-key, down to earth city -- very much my style. Downtown is blowing up right now in the gas lamp district, and nothing beats bonfires on the beach in PB. I had so much fun, I might even go back this upcoming weekend!

SICKO and the US Healthcare System

2007-06-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

Michael Moore's latest film SICKO will be released this upcoming weekend to nationwide audiences. I'm not a huge fan of Michael Moore and his antics, but I have been anxiously awaiting the release of this film. Today, I want to encourage everyone to see it because the issue of health care in this country is affecting millions of Americans on a daily basis. I take a lot of interest now in the subject because this topic has personally impacted my own family to a huge extent, costing us thousands upon thousands of dollars. Whether you are a Democrat or Republican, this is a huge issue that will likely impact you at some point in your life. The costs of health care, and the unbelievable amounts of money that are needed to get prescription drugs in this country are absurd. Now, I don't want to rant too much about the drug aspect because I know that I will offend all of my friends back East that work for major pharmaceutical companies. But I will say that I think they are partly to blame as well (yes, I know that they are a great place to work, I know, I know. I'm not saying that). I just think that it's very wrong to push drugs on people the way that they do at times, because I know from personal experience that many times the drugs are not needed and cause more damage than good. Drugs can obviously be a good thing, but there is a fine line between what people really need and what sales reps are pushing and/or what doctors are prescribing on a daily basis.

I just hope that people will learn about the issues at hand for the upcoming 2008 election. For example, did you know that because I now have a pre-existing condition that most insurance companies will not even cover me? I have to pay almost $500/month for health insurance, only for myself. Think about that. That's $6,000/year. I've had to go through enough already, is this really what I should have to deal with now? This is only one example of how so many people are impacted by the corruption of our countries health care system. All I'm asking is that you take note, and learn about the issue. It may not affect you now, but it could in the future. I'm worried about our future. There are so many good people in this country that are unfortunate enough to deal with illness, they should not have to worry about astronomical medical payments on top of everything else.

And if the policy doesn't change in 2008? Well, maybe I'll just find a nice Swedish boy to marry.

Evening

2007-06-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

I took a lot of interest in this film because it was written by one of the same writers that worked on The Hours. Since I worked on The Hours with Scott Rudin in 2000 during the filming, I knew that this would have a similar feel to it. And it did. A chick flick for sure -- well worth seeing.

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3626

The Naked News

2007-06-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

There is a website that is currently getting a lot of press. It's called The Naked News (www.nakednews.com). If you become a Naked News Member, you will have a daily news report delivered to you covering all of the world's most important events. BUT while the reporters give the stories, they strip down in front of the camera to bare bones, showing it all. Now, I'm 100% for alternative forms of news reporting. And when I say that, I mostly just mean The Onion (www.theonion.com). I guess though if it's going to make all the perverts of the world a tiny bit more intelligent, we may one day thank this great source of media...? I'm still not really sure what to think, any other opinions about this one?

Music and More

2007-06-18T21:28:00.001-07:00

This month, I'm focusing on music. For work and for play. I love the music scene in creative LA. It's the best in our great nation, with Nashville close behind. Los Angeles has the most ridiculous radio stations (no need for Satellite out here, there are too many to count) and the best part about it is that all the famous DJ's that you think only do weekend shows on the East Coast... well, they are all actually the morning talents out here. Ryan Seacrest, Rick Dees, Leeza Gibbons, etc. On-air interviews with celebs and rock stars happen at least 4-5 times a day, and celebrity news that you read in US Weekly breaks on-air (sometimes with celebs calling in) at least 2-3 days before it hits the national circuit. There's even an Indie station that lets celebs guest DJ. My favorite time to tune in is when John Cusack is spinning on Saturday afternoons on 103.1.

One of my favorite things to tune into are the album release shows that LA stations host on a frequent basis. The bands come in, and play their albums the week of their release. The bands typically explain what they were doing when writing each song, and you get to know them a little bit better. Today on the radio, for example, I got to hear Lifehouse's album release show, which I'll let you know was damn good. If you liked The Fray's last album (which I loved dearly before it went mainstream), I suggest you check out Who We Are later in the week.

I'll be posting a few music articles soon, but in the meantime, there are a few things about music that have crossed my mind in the past few weeks. First, has anyone heard the new Bone, Thugs and Harmony song? It's fantastic. My friends and I used to love them in high school, and they are back with vengence. Way to go guys. I guess I don't have to listen to First of the Month anymore to get my fill of you when in withdrawal. Second, I want Carrie Underwood to be my best friend. Seriously. That song where she keys the car because he cheats is unreal. She has come a long way from Idol, and I want to hang out with her on a daily basis. I must say that I appreciate girls who aren't afraid to be a bitch. Third, I freaking love country music now. I don't know if it's because I'm older and I long for a more simple lifestyle, but modern country is great. There, I said it.

And lastly, I just found out that we have a karaoke machine at school. It was like the day that I found out Santa wasn't real. Nothing will be the same ever again. I think that there is no better way to teach my students English than with a little Bone, Thugs and Harmony, no? Well, maybe not BT&H, but some Journey certainly can't hurt. You SO wish that you had me as a teacher. Trust me on this.

Happy Father's Day!

2007-06-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

June is time for Dads and Grads... And I have officially found the best Father's Day gift! There are just a few small steps to follow in getting the perfect gift for Dad:

1. Become a writer of some sort.
2. Get a job with a ridiculously cool publication that will give you the liberty to write something for Father's Day.
3. Write a tribute to your Dad, and then have it published in real live ink for 90,000 people in Los Angeles to read.
4. Frame article.

Apparently, I made my editor cry with this piece (below). I had no intention to do so, but hope that you like it too. To all the Dad's of the world, Happy Father's Day.

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3545

GREEK

2007-06-12T19:06:00.000-07:00

So ABC Family is coming out with a new show this upcoming summer called GREEK. I will admit, I actually really like ABC Family. They aren't as family oriented as you might imagine, the name is kind of deceiving. I wish that I had Tivo because I would definitely tape this show. I think it looks great, but maybe because I still have Peter Pan syndrome. Anyway, if you long for your college days, check it out.

MySpace en Español

2007-06-09T17:12:00.000-07:00

I've decided to teach myself Spanish. Classes? No. Lessons on tape? No. I have decided instead to learn a new language by converting my MySpace page into Spanish. I figure that each day, when I log on, I'll learn at least one new vocabulary word... Like "Christina tienes 220 amigos." See, it's easy.

Yes, I realize that sooner or later I will run out of new vocabulary words, but that's when I will decide that it's time to learn German instead. So don't hate the plan stan.

God MySpace, you really are changing the world. What's next?

The Laundry Bandit

2007-06-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

My apartment building is great. Similar to Melrose place, it's a LA community full of life and scandal. I've come to realize in the past few weeks, however, that there is one big deterrent from living in a communal space: sharing the laundry facility. Sure, it's problematic when everything is in use, but what I find to be most annoying is the guy that lives on the first floor who likes to move everyone else's clothes around. He's the guy that times everything, and if you aren't there to get your clothes when the buzzer goes off, he is. Before you know it, your wet underwear are thrown all over the laundry room so that he can be the next one to claim his stake on a washer. I find this to be one of the most unappealing habits of a neighbor. And I have decided to give him a name, The Laundry Bandit. The Laundry Bandit and I have had 2 run-ins this past week, and to sum it up, we don't like each other. Every time that I see him, I hear the old Western showdown music in my head and draw my fabric softener to get ready for the impending confrontation.

To all of the laundry bandits in the world, RELAX. And please stop touching my underwear.

Long Plane Rides = SICK.

2007-06-06T20:34:00.000-07:00

I had strep throat a bunch of times when I was little...and I just got it again after coming back to LA. This time it has wiped me out BIG TIME though. I went back to the doctor today and he is making me take a second Z Pack. Is that even allowed? Yikes.
My apologies for not posting anything this week, but I will do so when I am back to my normal self. Promise.

This one is for My Meez.

2007-05-30T19:52:00.001-07:00

I told RJK that he was my inspiration for this one - all those nights watching Entourage, and of course the summer with the viking helmet. One of the perks of living in LA: figuring out where the show is filmed, and then trying out the venues yourself (and writing about them). Life's tough, I know.

This new hot spot, Caffe Primo, is awesome. If ever in LA, please check it out. Here is the link to my review:

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3506

LAX > NEW > NYC > PHL > PIT > CLE > LAX

2007-05-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm back. My trip back to the East Coast was a successful 10 day vacation (which actually felt like a month because I did more in 10 days then most people do in a month, I'm pooped). I can confidently say that it was one of the best weeks of my life. I know, it's a bold statement, but it's true. I got to hang out with my roommates from Sydney again, take over a karaoke bar in New York with 8 of my closest friends, spend mucho quality time with my entire family, and catch up with all of my high school friends.

And let's not forget that my 10 year high school reunion was also this past weekend, which I was in charge of helping to plan. We had no idea how it would turn out, but we counted over 100 people that showed up! My cousin-in-law (is that a real relationship?) told me that I should pretend to have all of these crazy professions when talking to people that I haven't seen in a while. He told everyone at his reunion that he was a male stripper. So I did tell one person that I moved out to LA to work in the porn industry, but as soon as I said it, I realized that this joking comment would somehow come back to humiliate my mother in a grocery store shopping line. So I decided that I better just shut up. And the truth of the matter is, that now I have one of the coolest jobs on the planet, so why lie about it, right?

"Family, Faith and Friends" -- one time a priest at my cousin's confirmation said that these are the only 3 things that are important in life. And now it's my family's cheesy motto. But this week, I realized it more than ever. That priest sure did know what he was talking about...

Sightings and Celeb Scoop

2007-05-16T16:34:00.000-07:00

So as I said in my last post, I had the chance to meet and talk with both Parker Posey and Hal Hartley. You know when you meet someone and think "wow, this person just has IT." You might not exactly know what IT is, but it's something. Parker Posey just has a certain aura around her that is magical. I found her to be a lot more laid back than I originally had thought she would be though...maybe because she's often played a neurotic character in some of my favorite films. She's super cool. After meeting her, I like her even more. And Hal Hartley, the writer and director of Fay Grim, was also a great guy. You can tell when speaking to him that he is a genius when it comes to making movies. He answered every question with intelligent remarks, and seemed truly interested in sharing his purpose behind the film. The entire day was such an awesome experience.

A Film Review and More

2007-05-16T15:05:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Lisa and Aaron.
Girls night in the Big Apple.
Hooray for the grad! Shannon, I can't wait to welcome you to California, and I know that Stanford is pretty happy too.
Happy Birthday Dad.
And 10 years, really? The BHS Class of 97 reunion...Yikes.

There are so many reasons for my upcoming trip back to the East Coast. I leave tomorrow on a red eye, and can't wait. I feel it in my bones that this going to be one of the best weeks ever. Before I leave, I wanted to post two of my recent articles (published today) -- the first is my review of the film Fay Grim. Now, I not only got to go to a special press screening of the film last month at Raleigh Studios, but I also got to interview Parker Posey and Hal Hartley personally during a press junket. The private screenings are VIP, and the fact that I got up close and personal with one of my favorite actresses can't really be compared to anything else that I did at my last job. So read up, and if you can, check out this film. Parker Posey is great in it.

Here is the link to the review: http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3422

My second article this week is a synopsis of DVD releases that are scheduled to come out this summer. It's not too interesting, but will give you a quick review of what you have to look forward to on the days that it decides to rain. You can check it out here:

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3441

I had a comment in there about Sexual Chocolate and the gang from Coming to America, but I can see that my editor took it out. Boo.

Mother's Day Ideas

2007-05-15T10:08:00.000-07:00

i just realized that I totally forgot to post this article!! I guess it's too late, but here are some ideas for Mother's Day next year:

http://www.campuscircle.net/review.cfm?r=3418

Also, you can visit the website www.campuscircle.net and click "download current issue" to actually see what the publication is like if you live outside of LA!

Bobby: Rent It

2007-05-14T23:23:00.000-07:00

One day, when I was home sick from grade school, I watched a special anniversary news report about the assassination of JFK. For whatever reason, from that point forward, I became obsessed (in a good way) with The Kennedy Family. I finally rented Bobby over the weekend, and if you have not yet seen this film, you should. It's an amazing tribute to American History, and to the man that had unmatched ambition to lead our country in a time of change. Watch this movie, LEARN, and love every second of it.

Some Random Sh*t

2007-05-14T22:52:00.000-07:00

I feel like in the last couple of weeks, some really random things have popped into my mind -- so like that Ruminations guy, I didn't want to dedicate an entire posting to these thoughts, but just mention each one briefly. Here goes, some random stuff that I've been thinking about lately:

Why is it that when you get on an exercise bike, and bike an entire mile, you only burn 13 calories? Seriously, I watched it today. 1 mile at 95 RPM = 13 calories. And when you read Cosmo, it always says stupid stuff like "Kissing for 1 minute burns 25 calories. WOW." If this is true, then I would just be better off making out with people (snogging if you will, see July blog) instead of going to the gym? This sounds like a much better option to me.

When you live in LA, 3,500 miles away from home, it is NOT a good idea to ever leave that Nickelback song "Faraway" on the radio while in the car (particularly when stuck in traffic). Because before you realize it, all you can say to yourself is "Oh my god, I really am SO FAR AWAY." And then WCD hits hard, and you want to belt out the rock ballad in tears. Take note, nearby drivers do not want to see this! Just change the station immediately the next time you hear it.

I cannot just eat one of those Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches. I always want another one - can anyone just eat one? And here is another diet thought that I discussed with a friend last week: Since Weight Watchers figures in how much fiber is in a food, can you make something worth ZERO points by adding a ton of Benefiber to it? And why is it impossible to lose 20 pounds in 2 weeks? Because this is what I've been trying to do before my 10 year high school reunion, and it just hasn't worked. Sometimes, life just isn't fair.

Last time I was in Yoga class, the instructor kept saying "Just become one with your body. The process is about letting go of the thoughts in your mind, not thinking about the pain." But honestly, the thoughts running through my head at the time consisted of "Ouch....ouch....stupid instructor, way too hard...freaking downward dog, I hate you...that guy next to me is hot...not going to be able to walk tomorrow... wait, I think he's gay...OUCH." Does this sound familiar to anyone else? Anyone? Am I the only person that is incapable of focusing in Yoga class? Because sometimes, I think so.

Los Angeles is ON FIRE.

2007-05-08T22:09:00.000-07:00

Today is a really sad day here in LA. A huge section (they are estimating 1,000 acres) is on fire in Griffith Park. Homes have been burned down, everyone is evacuating the area, and it's totally scary. Driving home from work today, it literally looked like WAR was going on in the distance. It's pretty unbelievable, I've never seen anything like it before...

Aboe is a picture from the news reports - in the forefront is Griffith Observatory, one of LA's finest cultural institutions.

Singing in the Car - Embrace it.

2007-05-03T08:58:00.000-07:00

On the days that I teach, I end up spending about 40 minutes in the car to and from work. I actually don't mind it at all, because it gives me time to catch up on all of my phone calls and either wake up or unwind from the day. And I am well-known for my outrageously loud singing skills in the car anytime that a good song comes on the radio. On top of that, I have a horrible singing voice. Since starting my new commute, I've been caught so many times singing my head off in the car by total strangers next to me at a red light or on La Cienega. Obviously, the initial first reaction is to become embarrassed. But now, I've decided to embrace it and sing directly to the people watching. It makes for a really funny situation, trust me on this. I suggest this sociology lesson to everyone reading -- try it out and have fun with it.

To the black Acura at the corner of Washington, you weren't mistaken. I do wear my sunglasses at night.

YAY Pittsburgh.

2007-05-01T21:10:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Pittburgh. It was ranked #1 as the "most livable" city in the United States. Those of us that know it well aren't surprised at all. And, I love this quote -- it's so true:

"If Pittsburgh were situated somewhere in the heart of Europe, tourists would eagerly journey hundreds of miles out of their way to visit it." —Brendan Gill, The New Yorker

Pittsburgh rated “most livable” once again.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07116/781162-53.stm

Pittsburgh is back at No. 1 among Places Rated
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07115/781048-100.stm

Pittsburgh Ranked “Most Livable” City
http://kdka.com/topstories/local_story_116072554.html

How now brown town?
http://www.economist.com/world/na/PrinterFriendly.cfm?story_id=7914950

The City of Bridges
http://www.popcitymedia.com/features/bridges.aspx

Top 10 Unique Things to Pittsburgh
http://www.popcitymedia.com/features/30uniquepgh.aspx

Pittsburgh Rankings
http://www.visitpittsburgh.com/static/index.cfm?contentID=580

Pittsburgh Trivia
http://www.visitpittsburgh.com/static/index.cfm?contentID=587

Pittsburgh Outdoors
http://www.visitpittsburgh.com/static/index.cfm?contentID=588

What’s New in Pittsburgh
http://www.visitpittsburgh.com/static/index.cfm?contentID=71