beep Blog

beep Blog moved to auntbeep.typepad.com

2006-05-09T20:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, we've moved the old beep Blog to typepad...and you'll love what we have in store for you!!

please edit your bookmarks and proceed to the following address:

http://www.auntbeep.typepad.com

Sunday Dinner // 23 April 2006 / Mom's Peppino's Soup

2006-04-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

I grew up with this super delicious soup - it's a warm, filling, universally satisfying dish that's equally easy to make. Family legend has it that this same soup was served at Peppino's Italian restaurant in Denver (it closed when I was a little girl) and everybody craved it.

Originally, the pasta used has always been very very small bowtie, but I recently tried it with cheese tortellini (the smallest you can find) and I like it better. The cheese in the tortellini adds a sharp starchy quality to the stock that really rounds out the lemony broth. Plus, with tortellini, all you need is a simple salad, a slice of crunchy bread and a glass of wine and you'll be as full as can be!

And like all soups...it's even better the next day for lunch!

note: the pasta looks very small and alone in all that stock when you first add it. Never fear, it will expand when it's cooked. I made the mistake of adding too much pasta once, and it was more like a stew than a soup. If you want more substance after the pasta has cooked, you can always add more peas. :)
Serves: lots

Mom's 'Peppino's' Soup

3 Boxes Organic Chicken or Vegetable Stock
3/4 bag of dried cheese tortellini
juice of one lemon
3-4 cups frozen peas
fresh chopped Italian parsley to taste
3/4 to 1 cup cream
1 clove chopped garlic
1/4 cup chopped onion
fresh grated Parmesan

In a large stock pot warm some olive oil and saute the onion and garlic until softened. Add the stock and bring to a simmer. When warm, add juice of 1/2 the lemon plus salt and pepper to taste. Continue to add lemon juice to taste to your preference. The stock should be tart, but not overpowering.

Leave stock uncovered until it comes to a rigorous boil for at least 10 minutes. Add the tortellini, and toss in some parsley, reduce heat to a simmer, and let cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally and add pepper to taste.

When tortellini is cooked, add peas, another toss of parsley, and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Stir in cream and simmer for at least 15 minutes longer.

At this point the soup is basically cooked, and can only get better from here. If you're pottering around the kitchen, cover the pot and leave it on a low simmer for a while longer, stirring occasionally. The pasta will hold up under the heat and liquid for a long time, and it doesn't need to be al dente. More cream and lemon juice can always be added to your liking.

Serve piping hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, fresh Parmesan and a strong grind of fresh pepper.

Happy Eating!

Young At Heart Sale :: Saturday, March 25th :: Champagne & Cupcakes!

2006-03-22T13:42:00.000-08:00

Shop the newest selections of Aunt Beep BABY and oodles of tees from ACT III Clothing...stylish, witty tee shirts for your moms and grandmothers.
We'll have lots of great deals, and previews of designer merch not yet on AuntBeep.com
RSVP to win a free Aunt Beep gift basket!!

You may be kidnapped or murdered if you marry Harrison Ford

2006-03-22T09:29:00.000-08:00

This clip is so funny, I just had to post it. It's funnier still, because I'm such a sucker for high-drama political action movies, and Harrison Ford in general.
(via Best Week Ever)

Sunday Dinner / March 12 // Eggplant Gratin

2006-03-17T15:00:00.000-08:00

This is once again a recipe from Barefoot in Paris by Ina Garten.

Eggplant Gratin
(serves 2 generously, or 4 as a side)

El Coyote's 75th Anniversary

2006-03-16T08:08:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from the Evening's festivities. It was pretty funny to see a spotlight and velvet rope outside the restaurant!

We ended up sitting in the bar for the evening...as it had a pretty good view of all the goings on. I don't remember the last time someone has tossed a Jose Cuervo tee shirt at me, but it fun. And funny.

Here's to another 75 for the Coyote!

Beep In A Week: Vol 7 // Who Da Man? Beep not da Man!

2006-03-12T18:08:00.000-08:00

A few things came across our desk this week which poke a pointy finger at The Man. And as it's tax time, I say we celebrate them.

But first, some housekeeping: the first three new small press works are up in the PAPER
section, so I am pleased to announce Aunt Beep's Bookcase!

Over the next few months you'll be treated to all sorts of literary treats, wholly unavailable at Barns & Noble. Plus, we're supporting the cause and giving a portion of all book sales to a great project. Reading is so the new black.

Welcome susanstars: co-author of Super Crafty, R.J. Perez: author of the hilarious Nathan Jr. Zine & Edwin Ushiro author/illustrator of the "Love Sonnets" series. Pick up a copy and support small press!

And the Beep goes on...

You Simply Must...
* Make your own Silly Walk. Who else but the genius, anti-establishment minds of Monty Python
would come up with something so mindlessly, pointlessly entertaining? Make your own walk and then send it to all your friends!

* Buy a Banana Guard. Because The Man still can't squash your banana. (thanks for the tip Apartment Therapy!)

That Is So Beep...Greatest. Monologue. About Starbucks. Ever.
(click the Starbucks 1/21/2006 video link)
If I ever saw a true Beepster, it's The Kid From Brooklyn, Mike Caracciolo. This video is one of the funniest monologues I've heard in a long time. Further review of The Kid's website proves that he is indeed crazy, and I love it. There are lots videos full of The Kid's insights; but as I continually reassess my own caffeine addiction, the Starbucks bit is particularly funny.

BE WARNED: We keep things Beep Rated, but there is an impressive - dare I say - poetic use of the F-Bomb in The Kid's rant. Do not listen to this at work, unless your job is super cool like working at AuntBeep.com.

Yes, I know we all hate to love Starbucks. So, just to keep it real, here are a few coffee shops in LaLa Land that are well worth visiting...and way Beepified:
1. Chango Coffee - Aunt Beep loves Chango!!!
2. Susina Bakery - absolutely delish pastries & deserts
3. Groundwork Coffee - Downtown - yummy sandwiches
4. Urth Cafe - mmmmmm spanish latte...

Be Sure To Note...
* Monday, March 13th is El Coyote's 75th Anniversary. (For our new Beepsters just joining us
this week, you can read here about my love for the Coyote.) Aunt Beep will be there with camera to
document the festivities. Check the blog to see pics!
* Mark your calendars! It's all champagne & cupcakes at Beep HQ on March 25th for our Young At Heart Sale. We're celebrating the launch of the new (and growing) Beep Baby section along with the official introduction of Act III Clothing. More info here - RSVP to win goodies!

Sunday Dinner...We needed a decadent meal and lots of wine to suffer through the Oscars...
(are the Oscars becoming more like The Man? Discuss...)
Main: Seafood Pasta. With more seafood pasta.
Click Here for Full Recipes!

Bringing It Back...I think it's time
for some more Aretha. Now there's a woman in a Man's world.

Spirit in the Dark, Aretha Franklin

That's all from Beep Land. Keep it real people, and don't let The Man get you down!

Love,

Aunt Beep

Sunday Dinner / 3 March 2006 // Seafood Pasta

2006-03-12T16:16:00.000-08:00

I totally just made this up...I know, I know I cheated and used frozen seafood, but the seafood blend from Trader Joes is not fishy at all and is so easy to use. Plus, I was really craving green-lipped mussels, but Whole Foods was out and it was too late in the day to start running around town, so I got Manila clams instead. By the time I tucked into my big plate of pasta, I forgot I ever even wanted mussels!
Follow the Beep recipe if you can...it was delicious!!
Serves 2-3

1 bag fettucini
1/2 lb Manila Clams
1 bag Trader Joes frozen seafood blend, thawed
olive oil
3 cloves garlic chopped
4 organic roma tomatoes, chopped
1/2 can chopped tomatoes
1/2 bottle dry white wine
juice from 1 lemon
approx: 1/4 - 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped (add to your liking...I like a lot!)
dried crushed red pepper
grated Parmesan cheese
salt & pepper

In a large frying pan, of bistro pan, saute chopped garlic in olive oil to soften, then add tomatoes. Salt & pepper generously, add a toss of parsley and stir until tomatoes are warmed. Stir in frozen seafood, lemon juice, white wine & more salt & pepper. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding more pepper & parsley & lemon juice to taste. (I prefer a zingy, zesty sauce to cut the rich seafood and balance out the tomatoes). After the wine has condensed a bit, add 1/2 a can of the chopped tomatoes (or more if you want a really red sauce), and a generous pinch of crushed red pepper. Simmer for 8 more minutes. Add the clams and simmer for another 10 minutes while the pasta finishes cooking (al dente!)

Drain the pasta thoroughly and stir into the seafood sauce while it is still on the heat. This takes a bit of arm strength and balancing. To bind the pasta and sauce stir in a big handful of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until the pasta is well covered.

Serve in big pasta bowls, add more Parmesan and parsley on top, serve immediately.

Happy eating!!

psychic synchronicity, or long distance copyright?

2006-03-09T09:35:00.000-08:00

While reading Paper Mag's blog, I came across this post highlighting their faves from Paris Fashion Week.
To my suprize Oliver Theyskens has designed a dress for Rocha's Fall 06 Ready to Wear line that mirrors almost an exact copy of artist Leora Lutz' Unexpected Friends tee.

I don't know where to go with this? Coincidence? I know where Leora's influence comes from, I've been with her every step of the process...and it wasn't from Paris.

One thing I do know is that you should buy several Leora Lutz screenprinted tees, and even more of her City Silhouette paintings - because, clearly - the gal has style.

Rocha photo: style.com

Beep In A Week: Vol. 6 // Where's My Golden Statue?

2006-03-03T14:59:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been a wet week here in Hollywood. Anyone not properly protected must get a Tray 6 umbrella before the next City Wide soak.

Hollywood Blvd. is closed down for and the swag parties are in full effect. So this week's Beep is a star-studded treat.

And the Beeper Goes To...

You Simply Must...Put it in perspective.
* With all the celeb madness going on right now, sometimes it's nice for some satirical perspective. Check out beep Gallery artist 14's infamous
blog Gallery Of The Absurd; and then kick it on back to Beep to snap up her prints.

* You've probably already read this, but if you haven't, Go Fug Yourself is not only one of the shining stars in comedic writing right now, it will instantly make you feel better about yourself - especially
when you think you have nothing to wear, and all you want to do is look like a movie star.

That Is So Beep...Best quote ever from an Academy Award winner regarding the whereabouts of her stature.
"Oh, there it is. I must've won one then. I don't remember it, though."
-Jennifer Jones
LA.com found the story. Ha!

Be Sure To Note...
* Mark your calendars! It's all champagne & cupcakes at Beep Headquarters on March 25th for our Young At Heart Sale. We're celebrating the launch of the new (and growing) Beep Baby section
along with the official introduction of Act III Clothing. More info here - RSVP to win goodies!

Lesson Learned...Beware the veiled deception of nostalgia when at the DVD bargain bin.
Let it be known right here and now that I - Aunt Beep - am a biiiiig fan of "bad" movies. For example, I love Day After Tomorrow. Love it. When Dennis Quaid does those repeat lines: "I will come for you, do you hear me? I will come for you!" I just want to run outside and join him in the quest for Jake Gyllenthahahaall across the frozen wasteland.

I love it when Sela Ward does the fake sobs, and I. LOVE. IT. that every local LA weathermen anchor makes a cameo.

However, a certain someone in the Beep household continues to insist on buying movies which he hasn't seen in 10-15 years - but insists they're still great. You know what I'm talking about. You see Time Bandits in the bargain bin and it's only $6.99, and it looks sooo trippy and retro and sci-fi fabulous, and you think, "Ohhh! Time Bandits! I watched that when I was 8, and it was the best movie ever! I can't believe I found it for only $6.99!"

Tell me something, have you ever seen The Godfather for $6.99? Or Gone With the Wind? Take
it from me - here are a few others to pass up:

Casino Royale - let's pull for the remake
Flash Gordon - visually, it is rather wacky, but the jokes on us. There is no Queen soundtrack.
It's just one Queen song sung over and over and over.
Back To The Future II - 2 does not a 1 make.

and newly aquired just this week, the deceptively awful and mind-numbingly horrific:
Star Trek: The Motion Picture

Sunday Dinner...Oh my goodness, Sunday Dinner was delish. Yummy, yummy, yummy - and sooooo easy!
Main: Mushrooms in Red Wine with Blue Cheese over Fried Polenta
Click Here for Full Recipes! (always on the beep Blog!)

Bringing It Back...This was an actual conversation this week:

Brian: "Man, it's freezing [here in Chicago]"

Beep: "Yeah, it's raining here [in LA]"

Brian: "Is it raining men?"

This one is for you my friend.
It's Raining Men by The Weather Girls

Now go get ready for your close-up, because you're all fabulous!!
Love,

Aunt Beep

Sunday Dinner // 26 February / Mushrooms & Polenta

2006-03-03T00:46:00.000-08:00

This recipe was originally inspired by a similar one from Food & Wine. What I present to you here is my altered version.
Serves 2 (or 4 as a side dish)

1 lb crimini mushrooms
2 large portebello mushrooms, sliced
1 clove garlic, chopped
fresh rosemary
8 oz crumbled gorgonzoloa or blue cheese
1/4 cup red wine
splash of cream
lots of salt & pepper

Heat olive oil and garlic in a wide pan and add mushrooms. Add a generous amount of fresh ground pepper plus a toss of salt and saute until browned. Add wine and stir. Add rosemary, salt & pepper to taste. Simmer until liquid is down to about 2 tablespoons. Add cream and blue cheese and mix until cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened. Put heat on low and let simmer, stirring occasionally.

In the meantime slice up 6 pieces of packed polenta, and fry in a separate pan until golden brown on each side. About 4 minutes.

Pour mushroom mixture over the polenta, salt & pepper as needed, and serve immediately.

Beep In A Week: Vol 5 // Sunsets & Knitting Needles

2006-02-24T18:25:00.000-08:00

* this post was added - okay - a week late - I'm posting it as added on the day it was written...I just had issues with blogger this week, and got frustrated trying to post.

Helloooo Texas!
The Dallas News just wrote the nicest article about we Beepsters, and I just want to say welcome to all our new friends from the Lone Star State.

Also, I'm loving our new Beep Map. Did you notice we have Beepsters all the way in Australia?!?

Beep bop a loo bop - here we go:

You Simply Must...
* Love Knitta Please. I have officially seen it all - these women are fab-u-lous. A group of 10+ anonymous ladies (from Houston, speaking of Texas!) are tagging the country with hand-knit "graffiti". You've got to see it to believe it. They tag with knitting! Can you stand it?!!

* What was #1 the day you were born? For this week's mindless enjoyment
I direct you to this fun site which lets you track down the #1 song on the charts the day you Beeped into the world...or got married, or moved to Slovenia, or any important day!

That Is So Beep...We went to The Castaway Restaurant with our dinner buddies (see below) for the first time on Sunday to watch the sun set on their gigantic deck. I can't believe I'd never heard of this place!! It's like the El Coyote of 70's steakhouses! Foodies and design junkies are surely cringing right now, but to Beep & crew, this place is classic.

Just a short drive up the very big hill behind old Burbank you'll find this slightly dated Trader Vic's-esque landmark ... the deck overlooks the entire valley. Think Anchorman overlooking Saan Dieaago on his first date with Ms. Corningstone.

Their deck has all the makings for a clandestine rendevous...fire pits, white lights in the trees, cool California wind and lots of dark corners. The inside has lamps made of sea shells and plastic flowering plants hang from the ceiling... But the view! Anyone who loves the psychedelic sunsets of LA
simply must make a date with someone - anyone - and get up there before 5:00. I can't wait to go back when the weather is warm!!

Be Sure To Note...
* This Friday and Saturday, Project Angel Food is holding an art sale to raise money for their amazing efforts in helping those in need. beep Gallery artist Paige Wery has donated this piece, and there are over 200 other committee-selected works priced at $100, $250, $500 and $1000.

* Tuesday the 28th is Mardi Gras. Now ladies, you have yourselves a good time, but keep those shirts on!!

Lesson Learned...You don't know what you've got...
So two things happened this week which are just a little sad:

First, our fantastically talented and trustworthy mechanic decided to close his garage and start a limo driving service.

I was cruelly informed by some random guy who answered the phone - some guy without the severely thick Russian accent, who didn't wear track suits daily & chain smoke - who didn't drive a Mercedes down Fairfax like he was about to win the Indie 500 - and who surely wouldn't take it personally if I got an oil change from somewhere else - just sort of off-handedly tells me that Dimitri has moved on, but I can bring in my car. MOVED ON?? LIMO SERVICE?? WHA?? If you are as paranoid as I am, and are able to find yourself a good mechanic who will put up with you, you can understand the gaping void that once was my heart.

And secondly, my pink sunglasses have finally lost their battle to being carelessly tossed into handbags with no protection to save them. They are broken. And so again, doth my black heart break.

I begrudgingly bought the Pinkies after I lost my perfectly stylish Jackie O Gucci's which I'd had for like 6 years. They were supposed to be a joke and a transitional phase, and also sort of a social statement against the gigantor glasses of last summer.

But over the months, the Pinkies have really grown on me. I like to fantasize that the Pinks one day prompted Nicole Richie to rise from her seat at Jones on Third and shout "Aunt Beep! Where did you get those sunglasses! I must have them!" I'd like to think she'd chase me all the way down 3rd Street, until I duck into Sushi Mac. knowing Ms. Richie would never be seen anywhere close to a $2.50/plate cash only sushi caf that blasts 80's metal and makes you get your own green tea.

Yes, The Pinkies and I got along swimmingly well, and for the price, the obnoxiously perfect hue of pink, and their ability to cause people to stare at me, they were beyond fabulous. I'm just not ready to let them go, so reconstructive surgery will commence at cocktail hour, after the vigil for Dimitri and his limousines. Your thoughts are appreciated.

Sunday D~~inner~~ Brunch...Our dear friends Serena (owner of Wolf Creative Recruting) & Walt hosted us to a delightful Sunday Brunch - we had such a great time and the food was delish. Now I love to cook, but Mrs. Preggers only let me bring juice. I couldn't bear not to give her credit for such a wonderful meal.
Beep loves Brunch!!
Bread: Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips and Walnuts from Epicurious
Main: Oven Baked Eggs with Artichoke & Spinach (family recipe)
Ham & Cheese Mini Frittatas from Rachel Ray
Sides: Roasted Potatoes & Fresh Berry Salad with Yogurt & Dried Fruit & Nut topping (compliments of Katie). Oh, and juice from me.
Click Here for Full Recipes! (always on the beep Blog!)

Bringing It Back...So someone fabu gave me the new Neil Diamond CD, 12 Songs

Neil gets all down and kind of depressing, but I like it. Why? Because who doesn't love Neil Diamond. In honor, let's bring it back to happier times.
Shilo (why? I just don't know)

And lastly, I can't tell you how much I've enjoyed all your emails this past week. I love love love hearing from all of you, and thanks for all the great food (and excersize!) tips!

Have the most wonderful week...
Love,
Aunt Beep

Sunday Brunch // 19 February / Yummy Eggs & Banana Bread

2006-02-24T00:01:00.000-08:00

Our little dinner crew mixed it up and had brunch last Sunday. We had such a great time that we didn't even leave till almost 2pm - and then we decided to go watch the sunset over drinks and apps, so out went plans for my Sunday dinner.
Serena cooked up a storm and I'm thrilled to pass it on to you. I'm always happy to find a new egg dish...LOVED the artichoke & spinach dish, and the mini frittatas are genius. I can't wait to make them myself with another combo - maybe Gruyere & spinach?
But let me tell you, the Chocolate Banana Bread with walnuts is to die for.
This was the yummiest meal - I didn't feel over-fed afterwards which can happen with a late brunch. Best of all, it was a beautiful day in LA and the company was fabulous!!

Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips and Walnuts from Epicurious
makes one 9-inch loaf

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
3/4 cup walnuts, toasted, chopped
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup mashed ripe bananas
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter and flour 9x5x2 1/2-inch metal loaf pan. Whisk first 4 ingredients in medium bowl to blend. Combine chocolate chips and walnuts in small bowl; add 1 tablespoon flour mixture and toss to coat.

Beat butter in large bowl until fluffy. Gradually add sugar, beating until well blended. Beat in eggs 1 at a time. Beat in mashed bananas, lemon juice and vanilla extract. Beat in flour mixture. Spoon 1/3 of batter into prepared pan. Sprinkle with half of nut mixture. Spoon 1/3 of batter over. Sprinkle with remaining nut mixture. Cover with remaining batter. Run knife through batter in zigzag pattern.

Bake bread until tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 1 hour 5 minutes. Turn out onto rack and cool.

Oven Baked Eggs with Artichoke & Spinach (family recipe)
feeds 6 nicely

2 6oz jars of marinated artichoke hearts
½ pound of sliced mushrooms
10 oz. frozen spinach (thawed)
5 eggs
1.5 cups of sharp cheddar cheese
1 cop of red onions
3 tablespoons of olive oil

Directions:
Preheat oven @ 350
Prepare large baking dish (a lasagna dish would work great) with cooking spray
Thaw spinach
Drain Artichokes and chop in small pieces
Sauté onions and mushrooms
Beat eggs
Combine all ingredients (including cheese too) and pour into baking dish
Add salt and pepper for taste
Bake @ 350 for 50 minutes

Ham and Cheese Mini Frittatas from Rachel Ray

Note: you must use 2 mini-muffin tins with 2-inch cups to make these easy party bites. These tins can be found on the baking aisle in larger markets or at many discount stores. Most hold 12 mini-muffins per tin, some hold 24. This recipe will make 24 pieces.

1/4 pound deli sliced Swiss cheese, finely chopped
6 slices Canadian bacon, finely chopped
3 tablespoons snipped or chopped chives
A few grinds black pepper
8 eggs, or 1 pint egg beaters
2 tablespoons melted butter

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Mix together the chopped cheese, Canadian bacon, and chives and season with a few grinds of pepper. In a bowl, beat the eggs. Brush the muffin tins with melted butter. Using a teaspoon, fill the 24 mini-muffin cups halfway with the cheese mixture. Using a ladle, fill the cups to just below the edge with the beaten eggs. Bake until golden, about 12 minutes. Remove and let cool to handle, then arrange the egg bites on a plate and serve.

Till next week's dinner....

Beep In A Week: Vol 5 // Breakfast of Champions

2006-02-17T15:00:00.000-08:00

This has been a week of Zen Muffins, carb-cutting, computer re-programming and thigh-mastering. The good news? It's gourmet mac & cheese tonight!

Let Beep Games begin:

You Simply Must...
* Check out All Cupcakes, All the Time: It's a blog about cupcakes, and gorgeous pictures of cupcakes - not Zen Muffins - and lots of them. I can't get enough of it!!
* Put yourself on the Beep Map. I'm dying to know where all the Beepsters are, and I would love to see a map with Beepsters 'Round the World'. Again, I offer you minutes of amusement - click here to mark your spot!

That Is So Beep...The Winter Olympics are sort of the red-headed step child of Olympic sports - as seen by this weeks ratings. This is why we all must start watching. Aunt Beep loves an underdog. Some would say Aunt Beep is an underdog. So in the spirit of exerting oneself in extremely cold conditions (even if it is in Italy) I would like to highlight a few of this years Olympians who are true Beepsters, through and through:
* Johnny Weir - US men's ice skating: he is an over-the-top personality poised to win the gold, but he didn't do so well the other night. To which he explained: "I couldn't feel my aura."
* Hannah Tetler- US Women's Snowboarding: a 19 year old who won the gold medal and upon receiving it could only bring herself to make the sign of the bull (above).
* Everyone and I mean EVERYONE who is on a Curling team.

Be Sure To Note...
* Monday is President's Day - no banks no mail, no work!
* beep Gallery artist Leora Lutz is inaugurating the new location of her gallery, Gallery Revisited tomorrow night. Plus, beep Gallery artist Paige Wery has work in the show. Stop by and check it out, and tell 'em Aunt Beep sent ya!

Lesson Learned...The hips may thank you, but they will hate you first.

In the spirit of the Olympics, I finally decided to enact my New Year's resolution and start working out in the mornings. Somewhere I read that Tiger Woods gets up at 5am every day - and he seems to be doing well - so I've been thinking maybe I could dominate the world by rising at an ungodly hour and contorting my body into painful positions.

For whatever reason, I have decided that lunges with weights are the way to go - which is great in theory - but over the past few months my thighs have rested into a semi-vegetative state, and repetitive deep knee bends is an angry way to wake them up. Add to that the fact that between the age of 10 and 13 I grew something like a foot a week, and my knees never really recovered. Not an excuse so much as a visual aid so that you can understand the awkwardness of my new morning routine.

Maybe it is because of their recent lack of use that the old knees were surprisingly willing to bend more than 30 degrees, which prompted even more lunges by moi. However as I type this, I fear rising from my comfortable seat as an odd muscle on the front of my leg elicits excruciating pain whenever used. I am now resorting to walking stiff-legged in straight lines to avoid bending (think Cosmo Kramer in tight jeans), and flapping out my feet in front of me to ensure that I can hold myself up. It's just not pretty.

The saddest part of all, is that in my mind I truly believe that another day or two of bizarro calisthenics will turn my legs into a delightful combination of Angelina Jolie's and that wrestling uber-model from Dancing With The Stars.

Sunday Dinner...We ate a late lunch at Loteria in the Farmer's Market so dinner was on the light(ish) side again. I say ish, because this gratin turned out to be anything but light. Good thing it was our main course.
Salad: Mixed greens, cremini mushrooms and haricot averts. Simple balsamic dressing.
Main: Cauliflower Gratin from Ina's Barefoot in Paris
Desert: Vanilla Ice Cream with morelo cherries
Click Here for Full Recipes!

You all win a Gold Medal in my book!

Love,
Aunt Beep

Sunday Dinner / 12 February 2006 // Cauliflower Gratin

2006-02-17T14:51:00.000-08:00

Yes it's cauliflower, NO it is *not* good for you. I was actually a bit disappointed in this recipe, but admittedly I also kind of messed it up...I wasn't really paying attention and I accidentially added 1 full teaspoon of nutmeg instead of a quarter teaspoon. Yech. To counter it, I added more cheese, pepper and salt, and fresh garlic in the baking dish. I think I also added paprika. In the end, it wasn't a total waste (the husband cleaned his plate) but to me it tasted like egg nog gone horribly wrong.

However, I do think it needs more cheese, and I'd use the garlic instead of nutmeg if I make this again. I guess I just don't like nutmeg in savory dishes.

Oh - and I didn't drain the cauliflower long enough, so when I put it in the dish to bake the water made the gratin really watery. LET THOSE CAULIFLOWERS DRAIN PEOPLE!

Wow. This was kind of a disaster, actually.

Cauliflower Gratin from Barefoot in Paris by Ina Garten (pg 156)
Serves 4-6

1 3 pound head of cauliflower, cut into large florets
Kosher salt
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, divided
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups hot milk
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
3/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmeasan cheese
1/4 cup fresh bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cook cauliflower florets in a large pot of boiling water for 5-6 minutes, until tender but still firm. Drain.

Meanwhile, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add the flour, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon for 2 minutes. Pour the hot milk into the butter-flour mixture and stir until it comes to a boil. Boil, whisking constantly, for 1 minute, or until thickened. Off the heat, add 1 teaspoon of salt, the pepper, nutmeg, 1/2 cup of the Gruyere and the Parmesan cheese.

Pour one thrid of the sauce on the bottom of an 8x11x2 inch baking dish. Place the drained cauliflower on top and then spread the rest of the sauce evenly on top. Combine the bread crumbs with the remaining 1/4 cup of Gruyere and sprinkle on top. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle over the gratin. Sprinkle with salt and pepper/ Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is browned. Serve hot at room temperature.

Beep In A Week: Vol 4 // Everyone Is A Celebrity

2006-02-10T16:31:00.000-08:00

Well the Beep Fam just grew by leaps and bounds this week, thanks to Daily Candy and their fab feature about beep
Gallery artist Plasticgod; which is only fitting as it's award season and we're being deluged with red carpet madness.

Welcome all new Beepsters!
I've been having a great time chatting with so many nice new friends this week, and thanks & congrats to all who have purchased new art by Plasticgod!

Let's take this down to Beep town y'all:

You Simply Must...
* Well naturally you must get yourself some Daily Candy if you haven't already. They've been kind enough to feature artist Leora Lutz, designer Nappa Studio and now artist Plasticgod - so they obviously have great taste. It's a fun read with your morning coffee.
* Make your own tartan plaid. We all had fun doing last week's Simpsonomaker,
but using the Tartanomatic to create my own personal Aunt Beep tartan is oddly satisfying in a Braveheart sort of way. Best of all, you can buy your new plaid! I think I see a Beep Tartan blanket in my future...

That Is So Beep...
On Saturday we had breakfast at Urth Cafe. I haven't been there in a while, and I forgot how great the food is.

Do yourself a favor - take a 1/2 hour and sip a Spanish Latte outside in the sunshine at Urth Cafe. The Spanish Latte is quite possibly one of the top 3 reasons why I will never give up caffeine, and is - without a doubt - a perfect coffee drink. The coffee is strong, the milk is sweet, the foam is thick. To future visitors of our lovely city: for better or worse you can't get more "LA" than Urth, so add it to your itinerary.

Be forewarned: due to the strength of their coffee, drinking a large may induce heart palpitations, excessive perspiration and bouts of paranoia, but it's totally worth it.

Be Sure To Note...
*Tuesday is Valentines Day. Don't get down on the details, just tell everyone
you love them - that's the Aunt Beep way!

Good Fortune...I must be dipping into the well of good Chinese fortunes. We barely skidded
home from work in time for LOST this week, so California Wok was our only option.

As I have the pleasure of working with individuals who are both amazingly creative and hard working, I spend a lot of time discussing/reiterating what people can do, so this rings especially true:

"A great pleasure in life is doing what others say you can't"

I could easily pontificate on this, but I think you can get it. I'm glad I was raised by parents who always taught me there wasn't anything I couldn't do. The result is a life-long story of adventures and misadventures to be sure, but so much better than being trapped by someone else's limitations!

Sunday Dinner...The Super Bowl was boring, but this pasta dish was not. I love anything with
crab...it seems so luxurious!

We ate so much pasta I couldn't even think about desert. But I was supposed to make roasted nectarines stuffed with ricotta cheese. I'll include the recipe. We'll see if I get to it this week (now that we have all these nectarines and cheese!), or maybe one of you will beat me to it!
Salad: Maiche & endive lettuce with pine nuts. Simple balsamic dressing.
Main: Thin Spaghetti with Crab, Asparagus and Sun-Dried Tomatoes from Colorado Colore
Desert: Ricotta Stuffed Oven Roasted Nectarines from Gale Gand
Click Here for Full Recipes! (always on the beep Blog!)

Bringing It Back...I heard this in Trader Joes the other day. Everyone was singing to it. Which proves that just about all of us love Dolly and Kenny.
Islands in the Stream

(plus, it reminds me of Katie and Chad and one of the best 1st wedding dances ever)

You walk that red carpet people, and I'll see you next week.

Love,

Aunt Beep

Sunday Dinner // 5 Feburary 2006 / Spaghetti With Crab

2006-02-10T08:21:00.000-08:00

Like I said in Beep in a Week: boring Superbowl, not boring pasta.
I've never made a pasta dish with mascarpone cheese. Between that and the crab, this meal is quite decadent.
I will say however that next time around I might add an extra tomato and also some more sun-dried tomatoes for a little more zip. And, if you're a crab lover like me, adding more wouldn't hurt either. And lastly, don't forget the fresh basil. It adds an aromatic freshness to the whole thing that is fabulous.

Thin Spaghetti with Crab, Asparagus and Sun-Dried Tomatoes from Colorado Colore (pg 210)
Serves 4-6

1/2 cup olive oil
3 medium garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
3/4 cup drained oil-pack sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
3/4 teaspoon crushed dried red pepper
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut diagonally into 1 1/2 inch pieces
12 ounces thin spaghetti
8 ounces mascarpone cheese
8 ounces fresh crab meat
1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced

Salad: Maiche lettuce, Endive and Pignuts with a simple balsamic, olive oil and lemon juice dressing

Ricotta Stuffed Oven Roasted Nectarines from Gale Gand of Sweet Dreams on the Food Network
Like I said, I was too full to make this, so let me know how it goes!!

Recipe SummaryDifficulty: Easy Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 12 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

1/2 cup orange juice, heated
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
6 nectarines, halved lengthwise and pitted
2 tablespoons sugar
3/4 cup skim milk ricotta
3 tablespoons honey
Cinnamon sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Heat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Pour the orange juice into an 8 by 8-inch pan. With the tip of a sharp knife, scrape the insides of the vanilla bean into the pan, reserving the outside pod. Place the nectarines cut side down in the pan. Sprinkle with sugar and lay the vanilla pod on top of the nectarines. Bake until the nectarines are slightly slumped and feel a little soft, about 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool in the pan to room temperature, then remove the nectarines from the pan and chill until ready to serve. Reserve any pan juices to pour over the nectarines later.

Meanwhile, blend the ricotta with the honey in a food processor until smooth. Chill until ready to serve. To serve, turn the nectarines over and spoon the cheese filling into the cavity. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (if using) and serve immediately. Place 3 on each plate and drizzle the reserved pan juices over the stuffed nectarines.

Happy Eating!!

2/9/05 News A La Beep

2006-02-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

It's easy for me to feel like the center of the universe revolves around www.auntbeep.com - especially when there are so many fabulous new designers and artists being added every day it seems.

Nevertheless, the world (amazingly) turns round and round without Aunt Beep (working on that), so here's some interesting tidbits that are Beepified.

- The LA Times has an interesting article about the new trend in artist created toys. They give shout out's to some of my favorite local artists: Joe Ledbetter, and one of the best stores in LA - Monkeyhouse Toys get's a mention too.
Ironically, it's PLUSH WEEK at Gallery 1988, which is featuring "hundreds of cuddly & stuffed one-of-a-kind creatures". I'm bummed I missed the opening, but I can't wait to see the exhibit!

- Mark your calendars for the new opening of Gallery Revisited, owned and operated by beep Gallery artist extrodinaire Leora Lutz. The eye popping opening reception is on Feb. 18th.

-For someone like me who sends out emails to several thousand subscribers, the new regulation to charge "postage" for emails sent is a concerning and also interesting concept. The idea is to give priority to legitimate senders over spammers - but at what cost?

-How do you feel about kids receiving rewards like money, DVDs, iPods, even cars for perfect attendance at school?

PLASTICGOD featured on Daily Candy today

2006-02-07T17:03:00.000-08:00

The fab folks at DailyCandy.com wrote a great feature on beep Gallery artist PLASTICGOD today:

...Doug Murphy, the artist also known as Plasticgod. His signature style riffs on our obsession with fame, turning celebrities du jour into two-dimensional pop-art icons.

I'm loving all the new Beepsters who have joined the fam, (welcome!). It's been great fun chatting with those who are now getting their very own Personal Icon Portrait by our very own 21st Century Warhol.

Thanks Daily Candy for once again giving some love to Aunt Beep. We love love LOVE you back! Muah!

Sunday Dinner // 29 January 2006 // Back From The Bar

2006-02-03T13:43:00.000-08:00

I will pull an excerpt from Nigella Lawson's book which best describes this dish. She recommends eating at midnight, I recommend eating the night after a rough night, during chow fests like the Superbowl, during pity parties when you need comfort food, or especially when you feel like screaming "to hell with Atkins!"

"It's title is really just a gentle tease: this - a kind of Brit-style spud carbonara - provides heft, substance and comfort, and allays the most implacable of midnight hunger pains."

Back From The Bar Snack - FEAST by Nigella Lawson (pg 414)
Serves 2

1/2 cup frozen peas
2 cups cooked all purpose potatoes
2 slices bacon (**I ditch the bacon and use 2-3 cloves of garlic instead)
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
2 eggs
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, chopped

Put some salted water on for the peas*, and in a frying pan that will take the potatoes and everything later, cook the bacon - scissored up into little strips - (**or garlic) - in the oil.

Cook peas and at the last minute, tip in the potatoes just so they heat up. Drain and turn the pan with the bacon and take it off the heat. Whisk the eggs with the cheese and then pour this over the potatoes and peas in the pan. Mix well and pour straight into a bowl or two smallish plates.

*NOTE - If you're cooking this from scratch, just add the peas to the potatoes when they're about 5 minutes from being done.

I got a few emails from excited cooks about last week's Shrimp with Feta & Roasted Tomatoes dish - how was it?

Happy Eating!

Beep In A Week // Vol. 2

2006-01-27T00:15:00.000-08:00

This week has been insanely busy in Beep land. There is so much great new stuff on the site...a brand new PAPER section (more on that later), and at long last a BABY section (!!)

I'm so lucky to have the best friends, who have the greatest kids. Aunt Beep wishes a very happy 1st birthday to the fetching Will, and welcome to the world Veronica!

And on we go.

You Simply Must...
* Read Apartment Therapy. A daily dose of tips for living in the city. It's addictive. (plus they totally gave us a shout out!)

* Buy Kashware socks. It's true what they say. This stuff is crazy soft. I personally think they're quite ugly, but these socks are like slips of heaven on your feet when you're at home.

* Read this article about allegiance to one's hairbrush from yesterday's New York Times. Men and women will laugh aloud.

That Is So Beep...
Someone recently asked me to name my favorite restaurant in Los Angeles. My instant reaction
was to proclaim El Coyote!

Is that bad? Is it wrong? Am I hopeless?

I know the food is...wierd... It's not quite to the level of bad, but for years I have been ordering the Tostada Salad which is served with canned vegetables and 1000 Island dressing. It's just...wierd.

Regardless, I just plain love the place. It's cheap, its always lively, it's so wonderfully wonderfully tacky, and they give you mints with your bill.

Aunt Beep would have loved El Coyote for those reasons. I can see her there now, claiming the round corner booth as her "special table". So I guess I'll stand by my answer. Of all the places I've eaten in LA, the Coyote remains a steady constant in an otherwise crazy world. After a tough day (or a great day!), a couple margies out on the patio with good company makes the red glowing building on the corner of Beverly and Poinsettia just about my favorite place.

Be Sure To Note...
*Wednesday, Feb. 2 is Groundhog Day. A day which none of us really understands. Therefore, you should go out and rent the movie Groundhog Day, because Bill Murray is funny.

Lesson Learned... Beware the dishwasher door.
Earlier this week, a certain beep Gallery artist who shall remain nameless (no matter how many bottles of wine you bribe me with) was scrutinizing a recently finished painting, which she had hung on a wall across from the entry to her kitchen.

With furrowed brow and squinted eyes, she retreated deeper and deeper into thought as she backed away slowly to gain perspective. The entry to the kitchen across from said wall is very close to the dishwasher which was unfortunately left open, and full of dishes.

Unaware of her surroundings at this point, the artist took one fateful step too far and ran smack dab into the door of the dishwasher; which caused her to flail violently - flip into the air - and land directly on top of the brand new, very reliable, very full dishwasher door.

The noise alone I can only imagine was unimaginably horrific what with the inevitable hoots! whoops!! and the clanging of china, silver and glass. Beyond that, the pain my dear artist endured most certainly was great.

Believe it or not, she emerged unscathed from this incident, and nary a dish was broken. Miraculously, the door withstood the blow, and has since completed numerous heavy cycles.

Naturally, I'm glad there is a happy ending to this tale, however there are a couple points I wish to address:

1) People. How many times do I have to tell you to close the dishwasher door?! It falls in a blind spot right in the middle of your shins, and you just can't risk being clothes-lined by a major appliance these days. Am I right?

2) Artists. Stop being so hard on yourselves. Seriously. Can't you see this morose obsession with your work has potentially fatal consequences? You have got to ease up on yourselves. It's just not healthy.

3) And most importantly - buy the GE Nautilus Dishwasher Model #GSD4800G00BB. Clearly it's built to last.

Sunday Dinner...Sunday was a riotous example of why I love Sunday dinner. Good food (the pears! the pears!), great friends, lots of wine.
Salad:Shaved Fennel Salad from Craft of Cooking by Tom Colicchio
Main: Shrimp with Feta and Roasted Tomatoes served with a side of sauteed spinach. An old fave.
Desert: Honey-Poached Pears in Muscat with ginger ice cream from The Paris Cookbook by Patricia Wells
Click Here for Full Recipes!

And finally, a new installment to Beep in a Week:

Bringin It Back...originally I intended to offer you cheesy songs I heard in the grocery store that made me smile, but now I'm going to infuse that with my girl Aretha Franklin. Because, everyone needs Aretha in their lives. She can fix any problem, and make any wrong right. Download this song and refer to it when needed. You can thank me later.
The House That Jack Built

Have a delightful weekend y'all!

Aunt Beep

Sunday Dinner // 22 January 2006

2006-01-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

This dinner was extremely yummy, and pretty easy to make, as the only really time consuming part is poaching the pears after dinner. However, with all the crazy ingredients in the dish, it was fun to watch them simmer and taste the sauce as it progressed.

Shaved Fennel Salad from Craft of Cooking by Tom Colicchio (pg 110)
I'm in love with this book, it's a great read, and I tend to feel unworthy to try any of the recipies. This salad was a good ice breaker, and a definite keeper.
It says serves 6, but I say 3-4 max.
*note - the fennel will brown a bit if left uncovered, so prepare accordingly.

3 medium fennel bulbs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (I didn't use close to that much)
kosher salt & freshly ground pepper
fennel fronds, for garnish (optional)

Core the fennel and remove any discolored outer layers. Slice the fennel as thin as possible (this is most easily done with a mandoline). Dress the fennel with lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper. Serve with fennel fronds, if desired.

Shrimp with Roasted Tomatoes and Feta
I originally found this recipe from the Sept 04 issue of Real Simple. I've altered it a bit, adding the dried bread, tomato variations and extra garlic.
You can find a delightful bag of dried, seasoned, bite size bread slices at Whole Foods for about 5 bucks. I can't tell you how many times I use this for cooking or appetizer emergencies. Perfect for french oinion soup, brushetta, and for soaking up the tomato juices in this dish.
serves 4 nicely

2 large yellow tomatoes
1 large orange tomato
2 large red heirloom or 3 roma tomatoes
-cut tomatoes into eighths
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons minced garlic
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
fresh ground black pepper
1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (frozen in fine)
1/2 cup fresh italian parsley chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 1/4 cups Feta, crumbled
large artisan croutons or dried bread pieces

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place the tomatoes in a large baking dish. Spoon the olive oil and garlic over the tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper generously, toss. Place in oven and roast for 20 minutes. Remove baking dish from oven, and stir in the shrimp, parsley, lemon juice. Sprinkle with the Feta. Add croutons along sides and on top of the mixture - don't stir in, but bury enough to soak up some juice but also brown nicely on top.
Place back in the oven for another 12-15 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked. Serve warm with crusty bread, and a side of sauteed spinach.

Carre Des Feuillant's Honey Poached Pears in Beaumes-De-Venise from The Paris Cookbook by Patricia Wells (pg. 252)
This is an amazing desert, fun to make, low in fat and soooooo yummy. In the book Patricia Wells gives a recipe for Honey-Rosemary-Ginger Ice Cream. I am not yet that organized (or wanting) to make my own ice cream. I hunted down some Ginger Ice Cream - from Trader Joes no less - that seemed to work great for me.
*note - we were all chatting so much I forgot to peel the pears. I took a conscensus at the table and everyone agreed it was fine with the skin on...
4-8 servings

4 large fresh pears, peeled, stems intact
1/2 cup mild honey
1 1/2 bottles Beaumes-de-Venise or other sweet muscat-based wine
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise and gently scraped out
4 whole cloves
8 black peppercorns
8 allspice berries
two 3 inch sticks cinnamon
Ginger Ice Cream

1. In a large saucepan that will hold the pears snugly, combine all the ingredients except the ice cream. Bring just to a simmer over moderate heat, and simmer just until the pears are cooked through, 15-20 minutes. (Do not cover.) Using a slotted spoon, very gently turn the pears from time to time so they are evenly coated.

2. Remove the pan from heat, and using a slotted spoon, transfer the pears to a large shallow bowl. Set it aside.

3. Strain the liquid into another saucepan; discard the rosemary, spices, and vanilla bean. Place it over high heat and reduce by half, about 10 minutes. The liquid should be light and syrupy. Allow the liquid to cool slightly; then pour it over the cooled pears. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.

4. To serve, cut each pear in half lengthwise and place, cut side down, on a small chilled desert plate. Serve with ice cream, spooning the liquid over the ice cream and pears.

Happy Eating!!

**feel free to leave questions or comments if you've tried and of these recipies - or have some of your own!!!

Announcing AuntBeep.com BABY & PAPER

2006-01-26T12:31:00.000-08:00

Holy Moley have we been busy!!

LOTS of exciting stuff happening in Beep land.
Don't cha just love the new year and all it's endless possibilities??

First and most important I wish to introduce new Beepsters
Lynne Swerer
Celina Tagana-Duffy
Bella Wishes

plus, we have more Beepsters almost up on the site that I'm dying to tell you about too!

A lot of you have been asking me if we could carry Baby & Kids items, and I am so happy to say that Beep Baby is in full effect. We're no where near finished filling the section with fab clothing, art and toys for kiddies all made by LA artisans. However, I think you'll be pleased with the funky new selection we have so far...check out the adorable clothing by Beep faves random nicole & One Ear Dog Frog!

Next, it's on to Beep Paper. Sidepony & Tweet have moved to their proper home, and joining them will be a wide variety of magnificent independant works by local authors, poets and illustrators who take the time to honor the printed page by creating their own books and zines.

You all know how much Aunt Beep loves the world wide web, but let's not forget one of the greatest of all achievements: the printing press - and the worlds of wonder it has brought all of us. Be sure to check this site often and indulge yourself with an inexpensive book or two.

Hats off to Beepster Tray6 who's latest umbrella design is in Feburary's issue of InStyle Magazine. Whoopie! Haven't I been telling y'all to get a Tray6 umbrella for months now?? ;)

Ok - back to work. See you tomorrow for BEEP IN A WEEK.

Aunt Beep is featured on Apartment Therapy

2006-01-24T12:42:00.000-08:00

To say I'm obsessed with Apartment Therapy might sound a little over the top, but in truth, that is exactly what I am. I have been reading this fun, comprehensive, totally stylish home decor blog for quite some time now; so guess how happy I was to see they graciously mentioned AuntBeep.com and our fabulous gallery!

beep Gallery artists Paige Wery, Karyn Millet (also featured in last week's Shopping For Art post on Delight) and Leora Lutz were all mentioned as favorites...so my trust in Apartment Therapy's good taste continues to go unspoiled.

No matter what coast or middle section you live in - be sure to read both their New York and Los Angeles -specific blogs for lots of great tips and cool finds.

As if the home design wasn't enough, they have also added a Kitchen blog which is genius.

Thanks Alec at Apartment Therapy!! Aunt Beep Loves You!!!!

Beep In A Week: I've Been Hoodwinked Baby!

2006-01-20T23:22:00.000-08:00

Hello, Happy Happy New Year and welcome to Volume 1 of Beep In A Week -

Welcome AuntBeep.com Email Subscribers, and MySpacers! You can scroll through this post, and leave your quotes at the bottom under 'comments'.
Let's get started shall we?

You Simply Must... See Hoodwinked.
Here at Beep headquarters, we're all a flutter over the amazing success
of our fave new movie HOODWINKED; a hysterical animated whodunit written by our friend (and hunky BF of beep Gallery artist Jen Ditchik) Tony Leech. This movie is HI-LAR-I-OUS and you must run out and see it this weekend. Kids love it too, which makes it all the more fun. Here's a pic of Jen and Tony looking fab at the premiere.

That Is So Beep...
After several years of basically seeing out of one eye, I finally bit the bullet and got some fab new glasses from my new friends at SEE Eyewear in the Beverly Center. Everyone there is so nice, the selection is super stylish (mine are red! square! cute!), and the prices are really affordable. If you are lucky to have a SEE in your neck of the woods ditch the One Hour joints and get your four eyes on.

I'm Wondering... On my way to get said glasses I saw (sort of) a really great bumper sticker
that said: "Well behaved women very rarely make history"
This person is a true Beepster. I'm wondering if any of you know who said it, AND what your favorite Beepified quotes are. You can post them here, or email them here. I'll show you all my favorites next week!

Be Sure To Note...
* My new weekly Artist Spotlight column over at Delight.com. We're working to demystify the world of art by igniting your inner collector without the pretense. We Heart Art!
* On Jan. 22nd, cell phone numbers will be released to telemarketing companies and you will receive sales calls. You will be charged for these calls. To prevent this, call the National DO NOT CALL list from your cell phone to remove your phone number: 1.888.382.1222

Lesson Learned... Give Sweater, Receive Toaster.
While on Christmas Holiday with my husband's family, my fabulous sister-in-law needed to borrow a sweater. I offered this cute, loosely knit cowel neck number, and she looked so gorgeous in it, I just had to give it to her. On Wednesday a mysterious package arrived at my door, and what could it
be but a brand new toaster! (we have a sordid history of toaster malfunction in our family) Some carefully worded "did you send us a toaster?" phone calls finally led me to the anonymous sender - my sister-in-law. The reason? "I told you when you gave me that sweater I'd buy you a toaster!" Totally forgot, but I'm over the moon!

Sunday Dinner...This week we were pretty beat, so I employed the help of Trader Joe. The fare was a bit eclectic, so we'll just call it a World Supper. Recipes are here (in the preceeding post)

That's all for this week. Be safe, and enjoy the weekend!

Love,
Aunt Beep

Sunday Dinner // 15 January 2006

2006-01-20T11:05:00.000-08:00

World Feast - with the help of Trader Joe

Goan Avocado Dip (from the Saveur Magazine100)
I have made some slight modifications to the original recipe

4 ripe avocados diced
juice of 3 limes
3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 red onion finely chopped
1 medium plum tomato seeded & chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cumin
sprinkle of cumin seeds
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons olive oil
fresh ground pepper to taste
sea salt to taste
serve with: Pita Chips (from Trader Joes, go with the sea salt chips)

Put everything in a bowl and mix well. Sprinkle cumin seeds, salt and pepper to taste. However, remember that cumin especially will develop its full flavor over time, so be conservative. Cover tightly and chill for 2 hours. Remove and mix well - taste for more cumin, pepper and lime juice. Serve with pita chips.

Cuban Mojito Seafood Stew with Cuban black beans and basmati rice
Serves 2 generously

1 Jar Trader Joes Cuban Mojito simmer sauce
1 bag Trader Joes frozen seafood blend
1 bag Trader Joes chopped vegetable blend with bok choy, cabbage, broccoli
1 can Trader Joes Cuban-style black beans
1 bag (from box of three) Trader Joes frozen basmati rice
lime juice
olive oil
salt & pepper

In a large skillet heat the olive oil - add the seafood blend and saute. Add 1 tablespoon lime juice, salt and pepper and cook well. If the seafood releases too many juices from being frozen, drain a bit to avoid too much liquid.
Add the bag of vegetables and saute until the vegetables begin to soften from the heat.
Add the simmer sauce, cover and cook for at least 10 minutes.
In the meantime heat the beans in a small sauce pan.
When stew is ready, pop the rice in the over for 3 minutes.

To serve:
distribute rice evenly into wide, shallow bowls. Add a generous portion of the stew over the rice. Spoon beans along the outer sides of the rice and stew. Garnish with a slice of fresh lime, and serve immediately.

'Desperate Gourmet' Desert
This was created in a pinch with stuff I had in the kitchen (and liquor cabinet!)
Serves 2

1 apple (pref. Macintosh) sliced (peel if you have the time)
1/2 pint fresh raspberries
1/4 cup Grand Marnier or Triple Sec
3 tablespoons cognac
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cap full pure Almond Extract
Vanilla Ice cream (don't scrimp with the cheap stuff - buy good full fat ice cream with real vanilla - it makes all the difference in the world!)

In a saucepan heat up the Grand Marnier and add the raspberries until the liquid turns a yummy pink. Add the apples, sugar, cognac and almond extract. Simmer uncovered until the apples are very well cooked and soft and the sauce in minimal. Let cool for at least 15 minutes.

Serve over vanilla ice cream.

Happy Eating!!

12/16/05 News A La Beep

2005-12-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

- One of my fave artists, 14 from Gallery of the Absurd was listed on BoingBoing with her new group artist blog 7 Deadly Sinners. Check it out!

-If you care about what PETA has to say (and I don't*) then you might enjoy their downright nasty Christmas cards. Wicked renditions of a skeletal Anna Wintour - wearing fur of course -were distributed throughout the Vogue office.
Personally, I think the art was ripped off by 14 too. I appreciate satire as much as the next person, but this is no time of year and no way to effectively relay a message. Grow up PETA.

- A company with a bit more cheer to spread has found a great use for podcasting! Penguin Books is offering podcasts of A Christmas Carol. Pipe that through your ears while you're battling holiday travel (and lines and traffic and PETA) and I promise you'll be in the Christmas spirit!

- LA.COM tells us where we can learn to knit our own Fendi. (But I still think you should buy handmade bags from AuntBeep.com!)

- Not feeling well? Got a touch of the flu? Tom Cruise says its nothing that a little cooking oil and steam can't cure.

OPEN SHOWROOM TOMORROW!
11am-3pm
Come and Shop!
6010 Wilshire Blvd
Suite 301
LA 90036

OPEN SHOWROOM @ Beep Headquarters

2005-12-15T13:13:00.000-08:00

Did you know we are hosting Open Showroom Hours for all our dear Angelenos?
Stop by and see us - have some holiday cheer - and buy your favorite Aunt Beep gifts live and in person. Our showroom is filled with an excellent selection of items from our site including oodles of artwork not yet featured online.

Swing by for some stress free shopping!

AuntBeep.com Headquarters:
6010 Wilshire Blvd
Suite 301
LA 90036
(just east of Fairfax, across the street from LACMA West, on the corner of Wilshire & Ogden)

HOURS:
Thursday 12/15 5pm-7:30pm
Saturday 12/17 11am-3pm
LAST MINUTE SHOP SHOP Wednesday 12/21 5pm- 9pm

Phone: 323.857.5328

...rumor has it that there is a 15% off coupon available for subscribers to our mailing list...

News As It Relates To Beep

2005-12-14T08:30:00.000-08:00

- Artist Ana L. Conti has a cool compilation of songs about art, artists & painting. Could be a very cool iTunes list! [via Speed Of Life]

- Because you can never have too much. The NYT reviews 10 fab Champagnes under $30.

- Aquired Art Crusade: an anonymous artist has hand screenprinted or uniquely stamped over 450 American bills and released them into circulation as a statement about high price tags on great art. Should you be lucky enough to aquire one of these bills, you'll have yourself a "free" piece of great art. Provided you don't cash the bill. Check out Josh Spear's website for great pics of what's out there.

- People has created their 10 most memorable style moments of 2005. Click here for the pics.

Do You Live Around 3rd & La Brea?

2005-12-13T18:47:00.000-08:00

It has come to my attention that the city is attempting to impose even greater parking restrictions in the heavily populated area "bounded (clockwise) by the centerlines of 3rd Street on the north, Highland Avenue on the east, Wilshire Boulevard on the south and La Brea Avenue on the west" [from the Notice of Public Hearing flier]. There are postings around the area announcing the Establishment of Preferential parking District No. 114.

Those who live in the area are concerned that there will be far less places to park in an already highly restricted area. Many people who have permits (i.e. pay the city for permits) already park several blocks away from their homes.

Restricting these new areas on the east side of La Brea on Sycamore & Orange between 6th & 3rd seems ridiculous to me.

There is a concerned citizen in the area posting fliers asking where people are supposed to park during street cleaning and at night?

This proposition can be stopped "Preferential parking restrictions will only be posted on those blocks that submit a petition signed by 67% of the residents."

If you live in these areas, there is a hearing tomorrow:
Wednesday, December 14th
7:00pm-9:00pm
Hollywood Neighborhood City Hall, Community Room
6501 Fountain Avenue, Los Angeles 90028

If you can't attend (and you really should! I love how they schedule it right during Christmas) you can email them (before Jan 15):
pkg@dot.lacity.org
or write:
PPD 114 c/o LADOT Preferential Parking Section
PO Box 514507
Los Angeles, CA 90051-2507
or call:
213.485.0711

If you want a copy of the proposition, just email me and I can fax one over to you.

You guys know how I feel about parking & traffic enforcement in this city.

Please pass this on!!!

SWEET CHEADLE! Happy Birthday to The Don!

2005-11-30T11:53:00.000-08:00

DelightPop.com just informed me that It's Don Cheadle's birthday!

Celebrate our great American Actor's Day of Birth with an enthusiastic homage.

SWEET CHEADLE! tee shirt for guys and gals by Shirts & Ladders: http://www.auntbeep.com/clothing/CLSLcheadle.html

Beep Bloggers: Stacy Elaine Dacheux & ACT III

2005-11-30T11:30:00.000-08:00

As if the artists and designers represented on AuntBeep.com aren't talented enough, a couple Beepsters have fabulous blogs.

Artist Stacy Elaine Dacheux has created a thoughtful & inspiring blog with beautiful pictures of artwork by herself and her extremely talented friends. Her writing makes me happy and nostalgic every time I read it:
Pudgy Pigeon Enterprises: http://www.stacyelainedacheux.blogspot.com/

View Stacy Elaine Dacheux's artwork: http://www.auntbeep.com/gallery/GAstacydacheux.html

Designer and Activist Roz Ritter of ACT III chronicles the story of her amazing life, as well as her intrepid philosophies about aging gracefully and naturally. This blog is a great read for all ages, and a constant reminder to me that growing old is truly a state of mind:
ACT III Blog: http://actiii.blogspot.com/

Buy ACT III Clothing: http://www.auntbeep.com/clothing/CLact3.html

I thought we were under attack...

2005-11-21T08:25:00.000-08:00

But it was just the tree lighting ceremony over at The Grove. Must have been quite the fireworks show!

4 days till Egg Nog Lattes....

Aunt Beep Sample Sale Tomorrow Nov. 19th!!

2005-11-18T16:42:00.000-08:00

LA Family School Sample Sale
Saturday, November 19th
10am-3pm
1982 Micheltorena, Silverlake

Aunt Beep will have a booth with...
**clothing & tees for guys and gals from:
Leora Lutz Apparel
Act III
One Ear Dog Frog
Shirts & Ladders
Rob Walker Brooklyn
**Mo Betta World recycled juice pouch handbags
**Acting Outside The Box coaching cards for working actors
**Tray 6 Umbrellas

We hope to see you there! Lord knows the weather will be FAB!

News As It Relates To Beep

2005-11-17T09:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a nifty little article for all you aspiring designers. One word of advice from Aunt Beep though, lay off the white powder. ;)
How To Suceed in Couture Without Really Trying

Some of you know my secret desire to be an art detective - here's a cool article about the FBI's Top 10 Art Crimes

And finally, while I prefer that you do ALL YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING AT AUNTBEEP.COM, I realize that we don't sell iPods or Harry Potter toys, and therefore you must go out to the evil corporate mall. Black Friday is fast approaching, so check out this genius site set up by an 18 year old dynamo which reveals where all the best sales are and when: Black Friday 2005
the New York Times profiles BF2005 in today's Business Section.

8 Days Till Egg Nog Lattes

2005-11-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Thankfully it's so warm here in Los Angeles, that the temptation to cheat has been curbed a little, but I'm still awfully excited that Egg Nog Latte season is here again.
Over the years, I have developed an unnatural addiction to Starbuck's Egg Nog Lattes. So much so that I have to limit my intake of their limited runs - which is to say, I'm allowed to have one (and only one) everyday from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Like everything, they seem to be arriving earlier and earlier every 'holiday' season which is why these last few days are so crucial.
However, I love holiday traditions big and small. Maintaining a retail e-commerce business means the holidays can easily get swept under the carpet since my work load is at its peak (yay!). So if daily egg nog lattes keep me in the spirit of Christmas, and ensure that I will in fact gain at least 5 pounds in 30 days then so be it. Plus, there is something really great about waiting...
I love love love Christmas. I love that I get to spend it with Beep Daddy, and I love adding quirky holiday rituals like egg nog lattes, chocolate chip panetone from Trader Joes, a new Christmas CD every year and bingo marathons on Christmas Day.

photo by Terry Bain

Benefit Show TONIGHT featuring Sugarplastic, Space Mtn & Lets Go Sailing

2005-11-14T08:25:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

My pal Hillary over at Swell-A is helping host this super cool event to raise money for cancer research. Spread the word and head down to the Knitting Factory tonight for some great comedy, music and a great cause!

Great American Smokeout Benefit Show @ The Knitting Factory
7021 Hollywood Blvd. Suite 209
323 463 0204
Space Mtn, Sugarplastic and Lets Go Sailing, Paul F. Tompkins and more.
7:30pm $10

In support of the Great American Smokeout, a bunch of very talented musicians and comedians have donated their time and talent to benefit the American Cancer Society.
Talent includes comedy by Paul F. Tompkins, Michelle Biloon and Chris Fairbanks and music performances by Space Mtn, The Sugarplastic, and Lets Go Sailing.
Come on down and give it up for cancer research. Only $10.
Get tix! : http://www.ticketweb.com/user/?region=socal&query=detail&event=635963

Comedy
Michelle Biloon www.biloon.com/biloon
Chris Fairbanks www.chrisfairbanks.com
Paul f.Tompkins www.paulftompkins.com

Live Music
Space Mtn www.spacemtn.com
Sugarplastic www.sugarplastic.com
Lets Go Sailing www.letsgosailingmusic.com

Outside The Box, Ketti Mania, A new Revolution, and Art Art Art

2005-11-03T15:11:00.000-08:00

Let it be known, that I am not proud of my sometimes bi-polar, frenzied style of blogging here. My vision for the beep Blog has always been to have several posts a week (at least one a day) highlighting Beep News, LA news, and whatever else might be on my mind. I have in my mind a flowing source of beep-sight. A happy collection of thoughts and information carefully plotted for your daily reading. Sigh.

Alas, AuntBeep.com keeps me very busy (thankfully) and I cannot post as consistently as I'd like. And, did you know that Aunt Beep also writes for Delight.com? I say this only to let you know that I understand how you might be bemused by these strange lapses in time; but I guess somewhere, somehow the typing must come to a stop from time to time.

Regardless, here is my current excuse for the lack of entries: NEW BEEPSTERS & New Products!

Acting Outside The Box : coaching cards for working actors designed to carry with you on set or stage.
Ketti Handbags : handmade, durable and retro inspired styish bags.
Silent Revolution : their new 05 line is amazing! check out the DJ Hybrid bag - it carries records, a lap top, headphones - genius!
Stacy Elaine Dacheux : beautiful and whimsical works - Stacy writes as well as she paints, her art is a treat for all.

More updates coming soon! And keep checking back for info on lots of fab Aunt Beep Sales and Events for the holidays.

Love Love Love!

A Very Special Painting by Sarah Adina

2005-09-28T11:56:00.000-07:00

I am honored to present you with a beautiful piece by Sarah Adina which flowed onto her canvas as the world watched the devastation unfold in the Gulf.

I had seen the beginnings of this piece earlier this summer - it was another in her continuing homage to Los Angeles. It began as a dreamlike neighborhood scene of West LA, and was eventually washed over with the saddening images of children lost in the floods of New Orleans.
Together we have decided that all proceeds from this painting will go to Habitat for Humanity so that new homes may be built for those who lost everything.

The painting will go to the first person who contacts us with intent to purchase.
Price: $500
If you are interested, please email beepgallery@auntbeep.com.
Shipping is free of charge.

"Storm"

20x24 inches

oil on canvas

$500

if interested, please contact mailto:beepgallery@auntbeep.com

Additionaly, I am donating 15% of all sales from AuntBeep.com to Habitat For Humanity & the Red Cross for the month of September.

Artist Statement

Art is a way of thinking about things . . .

I start in contradiction. How do I make sense of my freedom in the face of my responsibility to the picture already in-the-drawing? I am born into a painting and yet have the freedom to paint what I will. This is my freedom and the circumstance of its exercise. Now the question is, which way do I go? Which way is up? With earnest intention and open eyes I feel what is now, respect what has come before, do what is necessary. I find the way up by feeling for resistance in my climb. There is no moral ground, there is only moral effort. For me, the hardest way is usually the way up.

Learn a bit more about Sarah Adina:

Where is your favorite place in Los Angeles and why?
I love the "canals" of Mar Vista . . . the dirt roads that separate the lines of houses.

What/Who is your greatest motivator?
Time steadily ticking away is my greatest motivator. Also, when I have crushes or obsessions with people, I am often motivated by a childish need to impress them. I am a hallow soul.

Are you generally for or against reality TV?
I am generally against anything that is deadening and life-sucking and horrid. But some shows are pretty catchy.

Passion…a blessing or a curse?
both

What is your biggest vice?
impatience

What is your biggest indulgence?
sleeping

In 3 words describe Disneyland:
Never Been There

What is your favorite LA restaurant?
Tito's Tacos

What in your career as an artist/designer are you most proud of?
I am very proud of my commissioned pieces – specifically the work I’ve done for theatre posters and playbills

Hump Day Work Break

2005-09-14T15:11:00.000-07:00

There are lots of interesting tidbits in the news today...

*“Stop The Bop”: A high school raises money for Katrina by playing Hansen's "Mmm Bop" over and over on the loudspeaker until they reach their goal. Hilarious and smart. But totally twisted. Glad to know today's youth haven't totally lost their creativity. (via Best Week Ever).
I have Hansen on the brain this week, ever since I found out the Sprouse Twins have been indicted into the Olsen Robotic Training Camp For Pre-Made Pop Stars.

*George Clooney and Brad Pitt (who had obviously been drinking) pay a kid $1800 to drive them from upper state New York to Manhattan. Sources say they were hoping to pick up Tess along the way, but she was in a bad mood and wouldn't leave the house.

*The Hipification of the Net: Google announces a Blog Search feature. The Associate Press glams it up to trick young fashionistas and technophiles into actually paying attention to the news.

*LOVE THIS!! A Harlem School introduces children to swiss chard, whole wheat penne & local squash. And a “That’s Nasty!” gets you sent to the back of the lunch line. (via Queerty)
In a bizarre twist, McDonald's launches a national Phys Ed program to win back the kids they got so fat.

*Brit finally gave birth to KFed's 67th baby.

A comprehensive network to direct you to exactly the way you want to help

2005-09-13T16:22:00.000-07:00

The mission of Relief Connections is to provide a forum where community, religious, and civic groups affected by Hurricane Katrina can connect with similar groups across the nation and world who can aid in their recovery.

SO - do you have clothes you're dying to donate? Have a job to offer? Want to help locate missing persons? You can locate NEEDS and GROUPS by type or name. It takes a little while to get used to the interactive format, but I think this is an amazing resource, and you can add your own offer to help or needs as well.

Also, if you are wanting to send products to people in Houston, the Personal Health Kits and Hope in a Box Kits coordinated by the Medical Benevolence Foundation is a great and effective way of sending immediate needs to those who are homeless. Many of you have told me how helpful this was, and I know some of you have been passing around this info so I wanted to mention it again.

Those Titilating Tees

2005-09-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

This gave Aunt Beep a good chortle. Thanks to bunnyshop for sharing the love!

GRAB BAG SALE on freewaystar tee shirts for guys & gals!

2005-09-08T20:42:00.000-07:00

freewaystar is clearing the way for oodles of fab new designs for fall,
which means big bargains for you!

Snag mindful tees for men and women for just 16 bucks and color yourself happy. Its like a sample sale, only the shirts aren't samples and you don't have to elbow any cranky fashionistas to body surf over to that top you've been eyeing. You should order quickly though. Quantities are limited, and everybody loves freewaystar!

...Aunt Beep loves YOU!

15% of all sales on AuntBeep.com will go to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina

2005-09-08T20:33:00.000-07:00

***

In a continuing effort to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina, www.auntbeep.com will be donating 15% off all sales - including fine art and photography - to Habitat For Humanity & the Red Cross for the entire month of September.

***

You Can Send A Personal Health or Hope In A Box Kit to a victim in need

2005-09-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

I copied the below information directly from
The Presbyterian Polis - The Disaster Aid Network

Personal Health Kit
PDA recently found out that the Medical Benevolence Foundation (MBF), a validated mission support group of PC(USA), has offered PDA the use of their warehouse in Houston, and we are very thankful.
We have decided that a special kit can be prepared to benefit familes who are in shelters. This kit is comparable to the Gift of the Heart health kit with some modifications. We are calling it the Personal Health Kit

Personal Health Kit contents:
1 - bath towel
1 - hand towel
1 - wash cloth
1 - comb
1 - toothbrush
1 - tube of toothpaste (4-7 ounces)
2 - bars of soap (bath size)
1 - container (non-aerosol) deodorant
Seal all items in a one-gallon plastic bag with a zipper closure and roll in the bath towel.

Hope-in-a-Box Kit
The Hope-in-a-Box Kit has been designed to help children who have been impacted by disaster. This is not a toy kit — it is a gift that will make a true difference in addressing immediate hygiene and emotional needs of traumatized children.

Hope-in-a-Box kit contents:
1 - Rubbermaid® Clear Impression shoebox with lid, 6.5 qt., or other flexible clear plastic 6.5 qt. box with lid
1 - small stuffed bear
1 - small soft ball
1 - harmonica, or other small musical instrument
1 - 6x9 non-spiral bound pad of regular or construction paper (60-100 sheets)
1 - Slinky® (metal or plastic)
1 - yo-yo
1 - 7-foot child’s jump rope
1 - comb
1 - toothbrush
1 - tube of toothpaste (4-7 oz.)
1 - box of 24 crayons
1 - large eraser
6 - new pencils with erasers
1 - pencil sharpener
1 - 30-centimeter ruler (12”)
1 - pair blunt child’s scissors
Place all items inside the Rubbermaid® shoebox, close lid, and tie securely with ribbon.

Shipping Information
Please place kits in a box for shipment, and clearly mark the box with the type and number of kits inside.
Include the name of the church, group, or individual sending the kits on a letter or note card inside the top of the box.
Ship prepaid to:
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance
MBF/Project Cure
10250 Westheimer
Houston, TX 77042

Please note: For any truck deliveries, you must first contact David Fox, MBF warehouse manager, at 832-251-2489, to schedule delivery. ONLY these two kinds of kits will be accepted at the warehouse at this time.

Click here for a PDF of the above lists to pass out to others.

Thanks to those who make us happy

2005-09-05T13:09:00.000-07:00

As a business owner, it is hard to officially ever just take a day off. But, its Labor Day and Beep Daddy is home today, so I am trying to give it a go.

While sitting outside enjoying this amazing weather, my thoughts seem to lately create a parallel to the monstrosities of Hurricane Katrina. It's very hard not to take your life for granted while living in California. While many days certainly want to send me screaming to Montana - generally life in the Golden State is just darn good. Natural disasters have a way of putting all that in perspective. Life running Aunt Beep is just darn good too; and to my suprise I realized that I haven't taken the time to thank the many other businesses who in some way make our lives here in Beep Land a whole lot better.

Below are companies whom you should patronize. Their support and enthusiasm for AuntBeep.com has helped us considerably or embarked on fabulous colaborations; plus many of them also generously offer benefits to the artists and designers represented on Aunt Beep.

We have one motto here which governs all that we (I) try to accomplish:

Passion brings prosperity.

Prosperity comes in different forms to everyone. But rest assured, without passion it will never be accomplished. Thank you to Alternative Apparel, Jewel Box Frames, Delight.com, RTEA and GenLux Magazine for their open-ended support of Los Angeles designers and artists.

If you have a resource or business and would like to learn more about how you might team up with Aunt Beep, please send us an email and let us know what you're all about.

Aunt Beep Loves You!

$700,000 and counting

2005-09-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

National Blog For Relief Day has raised
$ 723,695 in contributions so far

there are 1,680 blogs participating

and

226 charities recommended

Because of the overwhelming response, Blog For Relief Day has extended until tomorrow 9/5

If you're looking for a really great list of charities to donate to then click here. And please join our efforts if you haven't done so already.

MoveOn.org has organized HurricaneHousing.org to connect people in need of housing to those willing to offer it.

And finally: please take a hard look at these photos and pass them around to folks you know in the south. These are pictures of kids who were found alone on a New Orleans causeway.

CLICK HERE FOR MISSING KIDS WEBSITE

That's One Way To Put It

2005-09-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

Thanks DoubleViking for the image

FLOOD NEW ORLEANS WITH RELIEF

2005-09-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

TODAY IS NATIONAL BLOG FOR RELIEF DAY

please read, comment, and link this post

but most of all

PLEASE DONATE

I suggest that you donate monies immediately to:

The American Red Cross
RedCross.org
1-800-HELP-NOW
or
Habitat For Humanity
Habitat.org
(229) 924-6935, ext. 2551

Here are some other charities I also feel are very worthwhile (especially long-term):

The Salvation Army 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769)
Armed Forces Retirement Home (800) 332-3527
America's Second Harvest 1 800 771-2303

HERE is a comprehensive list of all the blogs participating in Blog For Relief Day and even more charities helping out

$ 102,462 raised by bloggers so far!! (4:53pm)

*Unsure which charities are reputable? Go to CharityNavigator.org for a comprehensive evaluation of American Charities, and what they're doing with your money.
*PennyWit.Com is keeping abreast of charity scams. Be careful!

Chuck Simmons is following which corporations have donated to the Relief Efforts so far. And I'm glad to see Hollywood has raised it's eyebrows. Well done. You go Morgan Freeman.

WHAT IS LA DOING?? Not much...but here is what I can find. Aunt Beep will be organizing something over the next couple weeks. If you have ideas, or want to help please email mail@auntbeep.com

WilWheaton.net and PokerStars.com are sponsoring an online poker tournament Sept. 12 & 14
And Blogging.la is keeping on top of things, and is encouraging the good idea of a loose change donation. Love it.
LAObserved has also joined Blog For Relief Day
and...that's all so far folks. (PLEASE let me know if there are more!)

UPDATE: 8:16am - Log Your Contribution and lets keep a running tab on what we raise today - who said American's were stingy??

I found out about a cool website- Strengthen The Good - which facilitates chairitable fundraising through the Blogosphere. They have a matching funds drive going.

Snarkywood takes on Katrina as only Snarkywood can.

DIRE OUTLOOK: You Must Help The Victims of Hurricane Katrina

2005-08-31T07:01:00.000-07:00

If we American's learned anything from the devastation in Thailand last year, I hope it was that any small part you can play to help relieve the despair of others really does pay off.

Now, another devastating natural disaster has happened in our own back yard. If you haven't taken a moment to consider just how terrible the conditions are in New Orleans and beyond then please - read these reports and let the monstrosity of it sink in. New Orleans overwrought with excessive heat, disease, floating animal carcasses, looting, no water, no electricity, no shelter, and people are still stranded on their roofs baking in the sun waiting to be rescued.

Tomorrow, 9/1/2005 a group of Bloggers have suggested a national Blog For Relief Day - a day where we can beg for relief efforts from everyone and pass along relevant and helpful information on how best to aid the victims of Katrina. I have joined in, and encourage you to do the same and pass this information along to others.

To add your blog to the BLOG FOR RELIEF DAY, along with a suggestion of a charity CLICK HERE

Here are some other sources with information about Katrina, as well as info on ways you can help:

The RED CROSS will be at Dodger's Stadium today until 5pm collecting donations
American Red Cross website
Catholic Charities USA - a highly efficient group with many local resources for the heavily Catholic population of New Orleans
The Humane Society
MetroBlogging New Orleans has valuable info on missing persons etc.
Hurricane Katrina Bloggers
Katrina Help Wiki
A list of various other charities you can donate directly

Nappa Studio Back-Order Update

2005-08-31T06:55:00.000-07:00

update: we are happy to report that we are ahead of schedule for most of the bags; many have already been shipped!

As noted on our website, please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of all Nappa Studio Handbags.

For everyone who ordered Nappa Studio handbags between the dates of August 9th and August 18th, here is an update of when your order should be shipped (week of). These are estimates, and subject to change. Naturally, each bag is shipped as soon as it is completed, so it always could be sooner.

*please note: all sales are final on any "designer's choice" bag

Thank you for your patience!

Baby Doll Clutch: 9/7
Designer's Choice/Baby Doll: 9/12
Marie Clutch: 9/19
Designer's Choice/ Marie: 9/26
Amarylis Clutch: 9/26
Designer's Choice/Amarylis: 9/26
Bird of Paradise Kimono Shoulder Bag: 9/18
Scarlet Daisy Kimono Shoulder Bag: 9/18
Designer's Choice Kimono Shoulder Bag: 9/18
Petit Burlap: 9/26
Mushroom Tote: 9/26

Aunt Beep joins MySpace

2005-08-30T10:23:00.000-07:00

I read an article in the NYT yesterday about MySpace (one of many I've been reading recently), and I just figured - Ok, fine. What the heck.

I certainly don't need a date, swinging sex partners or LSD (which was a post I read yesterday...seriously...someone wanted to know where they could find LSD in Los Angeles) but I DO like the idea of sharing Aunt Beep and all my talented Beepsters with the world. And if that world is via MySpace, then count me in. Anyway, there's a school of thought out there that Word of Mouth is actually much more effective than advertising...

I only have two friends right now, and am not totally sure how to get more (oh, I get it now! MySpace is about High School revenge! How cruel.) so please join Aunt Beep in that online wonderland space for friends if you feel so inclined. We'll see where this takes us. At any rate you all can now finally learn Aunt Beep's favorite books and movies. And maybe Rupert Murdoch will buy a handbag.

Folk Fest 2005: Aunt Beep hits Atlanta

2005-08-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a whirlwind month to be sure. First we we're happily surprised to find out that Nappa Studio handbags were going to be featured on Daily Candy, which meant lots of orders and oodles of new Beepsters to meet. Welcome everyone!

Just when I thought I was caught up with orders it was off to Atlanta for the 12th Annual Slotin Folk Fest. Elias Telles, Paige Wery and Aunt Beep all made the (long) trek down south to proudly showcase how California does Folk Art.

Despite record heat, rain and traffic problems, art aficionados came out in droves to scoop up finds from a truly overwhelming showcase of Folk Art, Outsider Art, Self-Taught Art and Folk Art Antiques. Believe me when I tell you it was worth the trip just to see the art. We were all like kids in a candy store!

As the only California gallery, beep Gallery beamed with works by Elias Telles, Paige Wery, Jen Ditchik and Sarah Adina.

We made lots of new friends and had a fabulous time. Here are just a few of our favorite newly discovered artists/galleries - check them out!!

*Minivan Gallery - featuring the work of Casey McGlynn, Scott Griffin & Clint Griffin
*Laster's Art Shack - Featuring the work of C.M and Grace Kelly Laster
*TAG Art Gallery
*Blacktop
*Ron Collins
*all the folks at Who-Ha Da-Da
* Joe Harris - a totally blind artist!
*Alcove Fine Art
*Tom D.
*Rare Visions and Roadside Revelations - awesome PBS docu series!!
*Mark Malmgren

Many thanks to Amy and Steve Slotin; the organizers of the Slotin Folk Fest and the cutest couple you'll ever meet.

And to Paige & Elias: I had a blast traveling with both of you on our whirlwind adventure. Your work continues to inspire me daily. Thank you for all your hard work and help in Atlanta. You know all too well I couldn't have done it without you. Next time the waffles are on me y'all. Sarah and Jen, you two were sorely missed. Thanks to all for your professional preparations prior to our big trip. Aunt Beep loves loves loves you!

Below are some pics from the event, I am sad I didn't take more - Aunt Beep is lost without Jen Ditchik's watchful lens!

the beep Gallery Booth on opening night

Paige & Elias

Paige with Paul Flack and his crazy ways. No Paul, we won't go home with you.

Fast friends: Elias & Tre's Taylor

Aunt Beep with her fab gift from C.M Laster "Mr. Suit Was Sad"

The Laster Art Shack

Paige & Elias with Ron Collins

Paige with the Minivan Gallery Boys

Folk Fest Friends: send me more pics if you've got em!

Venice Annual Celebration: Venice Community Trust's Raffle Awards

2005-08-25T16:41:00.000-07:00

THE VENICE COMMUNITY TRUST
&
epOxybOx

request the pleasure of your company to view the Trust's raffle awards.

Friday, August 26th
7:00 to 10:00 pm
Epoxybox, 602 Venice Blvd.
(at the crossroads of Abbot Kinney and Venice Blvd.)
Exhibition will remain on view through Sept 6th.

appetizers and libations

Raffle includes: up to $10,000 CASH - 1000 signed Venice Centennial posters by Stephen Douglas, 1000 discounts on commissions by contributing Venice Real Estate brokers, 1000 chances to win a prize by: Alan Shaffer - Anjelica Huston - Andy Greenberg - Aldis & Maria Browne - Chris Williams - CollectFineArt.com - Billy Al Bengston - Canal Club - Carol Doumani - Charles Arnoldi - Charles Hill - Dennis Gibbens - Diana Hobson - Donna Rawlins & Stacy Robin -Doug Edge - E. F. Kitchen - Earl Newman - Elizabeth McMillian - Ed Moses - Ed Ruscha - Emily Winters - eQuator Books - Fourth Corner Framing - Gene Sturman - Greg Colson - Gretchen Rollins - Guy Dill - Hal's - Hamilton Press - Helen K Garber - James Beach - Joe Goode - Jenny Gallagher - Joe's Restaurant - Juan Carlos Hernandez and Valentine Limon - Ken Price - Kim Luyties - Laddie John Dill - Las Rocas Resort & Spa - Lee Mullican - Lisa Adams Lynn Hanson - Maria Munroe - Mark X Farina - Marta Evry - Michael C. McMillen - Mikel Alatza - Nancy Kay - Ned Evans - Paige Wery - Pamela Barish - Peter Lodato - Peter Milton - Robert Graham -Ron Griffin - Shari Robbins - Sharon Goodman Squires - Stephen Douglas - Scentiments - Todd Squires - Todd von Hoffmann - Tom Everhart - Venice Suites - Suzy Frank - YAS.

Special guests include Brodie Seagrave, Venice's newly appointed City Council Deputy; and Laurie Sale, Special Deputy for Arts, Culture & Education.

The Venice Community Trust, www.VeniceCommunityTrust.org, is dedicated to:
* Establishing a public Venice Collection and archive to preserve our historically rich artistic legacy.
* Inaugurating the "Venice Annual", a festival to celebrate art and creativity in all disciplines, to be held at multiple venues across Venice.
*Supporting ongoing documentation of Venice as model for crafts, literature, music, film, performance, theater and visual arts, for distribution to educational institutions.

ALL ARE WELCOME!!

Friday Wrap Up: Bad Decisions & Classless Choices**

2005-08-07T12:50:00.000-07:00

Celebrity gossip and scandal has become one of America's most beloved pastimes. Indeed, socialites and celebs have been amusing the public with their antics since the days of King Louis the 14th.

For Aunt Beep, there is a very fine line between what is tragically amusing in a "I'm watching a cartoon" sort of way, and what is just down right low-class and tacky.

Here is a wrap up of how not to behave from some poor folks who weren't using their noggins too much this week.

Naomi Campbell beats up her best friend
Mike Tyson will soon be making pornos.
Anna Nicole Smith. Just in general.
Fergie gets waaaaaaaay too drunk.
OJ tries to...well, tries to do anything in public really.
Michael Jackson's father is a low life, creepy scam artist.
Tara Reid hits the bottle (some more) and loses her way about her.

(**sorry I couldn't post this till Sunday!)

Kids Across the Nation Will Rejoice

2005-08-07T11:25:00.000-07:00

On July 28th, Congress passed a bill which will extend daylight savings time by one month, reports the AP.

The plan intends to begin daylight savings hours 3 weeks earlier in the spring, and to end 1 week later in November. And so, more sun-shiney days ahead.

Naturally, we cannot look forward to the additional daylight hours anytime soon. The change (which was originally approved at two extra month's of daylight) will supposedly take place in March 2007; allowing airlines, energy companies, and anti-depressant pharmaceuticals ample time to pay off congressman and push for a veto of the bill.

With A Little Help From Willa

2005-08-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

This quote by Willa Cather is on the 1st page of The William and Mary Review (volume 43), in which the talented Sarah Adina is published.

What was any art but a mould in which to imprision for a
moment the shining, elusive element which is life itself-
life hurrying past us and running away,
too strong to stop, too sweet to lose.

Aunt Beep Recommends: Pabst Blue Ribbon. Yes. Beer.

2005-08-01T11:56:00.000-07:00

Pabst Blue Ribbon is about to make a comeback. I mean an all-the-IT-celebs-are-doing-it kind of comeback. If you want to be on the forefront of drink fashion, put down your Amstel & your Stella, and pick up a can of Pabst.
I've been known to passionately pontificate about this epiphany when in the presence of a pitcher of the old brew, and have been meaning to enlighten my readers on the best cheap beer out there, but now its official. It's in the news.
Kris Kodrich of The Oregonian seeks answers to Portland's recent Pabst craze.
Kodrich cites a "subculture" uniting everyone "from skateboarders and artists to Vespa-scooter owners and musicians." PBR's marketing Director says that young Portland is "...very passionate about their subculture and very passionate about Pabst'."

HA! All we need here in LA, is a tap installed at the Tropicana, and the nation's most retro cool brew will be the newest libation for the hipster set.

Let's hope that doesn't happen. In the meantime, here are a few places off the top of my head that serve Pabst:
Big Wang's - Hollywood
Beach Ball - Newport Beach
My Bar - Chicago. Serving by the way $1.00 pints every Wednesday by easilly the hottest bartender in Chicago. **
City Grille - Denver

Feel free to tip us off on other fine Pabst serving establishments in your area!

You heard it here first folks.

**also featured at My Bar** for your Birthday, bar owner Brian Cunnignham will do a shot of whiskey out of an ashtray with you.

A Little Nip/Tuck Aunt Beep-Style

2005-07-31T13:15:00.000-07:00

No, we didn't guzzle Trim Spa, and we'd never dream of doing botox, but that doesn't mean a little self-preservation isn't in order every now and then.

Thanks to the brilliant hand of Denise Biondo, we've just spruced up our home page, and made our navigation even more user friendly.

Plus, *NEW PRODUCTS* from

My Tote

Nappa Studio

Leora Lutz

If you haven't checked out our newest Beepsters...

One Ear Dog Frog skirts, tops and tees for gals

sidepony kitschy cards and invitations

Karyn Millet photography

ACT III clothing; made specially for women on the upside of 40!

And what about that Denise Biondo?

If you need a website, or some killer graphic design, or fabulous animation, then Denise is your gal. Visit her site to see all her amazing projects. Here in BeepLand, we just can't get enough of Ms. Biondo - our biz wouldn't be the same without her!

That's all for now...gotta go grocery shopping for Sunday Dinner!

Friday Wrap Up: Everybody Loves Lists

2005-07-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

As a public service to my Beepsters, I am going to post every Friday a wrap up of some of the great things I've found on the web that week. While trying to keep focused on Los Angeles designer & artists, blog issues and Los Angeles insights, sometimes there is just too much other juicy stuff not to pass on to you.

This week is all about lists. I'm a sucker for lists, making them, and reading them. Here's some good one's I've found recently.

And finally, in honor of my father, who made me watch Ben Hur, The Shining, Marathon Man, Bridge Over the River Kuai, Patton and Take The Money & Run all before I was 14, I give you:

The BFI's 50 Films You Should (have your children see) by the age of 14

Announced: Forbes Best Of The Web

2005-07-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

Forbes.com has announced their Summer 2005 listings of "Best of the Web" with a focus on "the rapidly growing world of blogs, also known as the 'blogosphere' ".
I have to chuckle when I hear such a remedial description about blogs - especially from a major source like Forbes. I'm well aware that many people still are vastly confused about all "this blog stuff", but you can't tell me Forbes doesn't have a team of researchers daily scanning those pesky little online diaries for scoop and information...especially from rogue reporters these days.

Anyway, as a long-time advocate of Blogs, it's always good to see nice press, and their intro sites some amazing facts. The list isn't exactly hefty or creative, but there are some fabulous LA blogs listed, and that's great.

To sum it all up - I like what Caryn over at Art.Blogging.La said best

"...blogs revive the fine art of discussing ideas--
an antidote to one-sided, jargon-filled critics' pronouncements.
Don't get me wrong, I like jargon but I like the kick-in-the-pants blogs give jargon more.
I mean here we are right now, at the best part of blogs - interacting with the media.
What a cycle."

Write On, Little Bloggers!

Delightfully Stingy

2005-07-25T15:55:00.000-07:00

Wait. You're not stingy - you're thrifty!

So are we! That's why Aunt Beep and CO love this new site from the fabulous folks who brought you Delight.Com and HipsterCards.Com

DelightDeals.Com is a fantastic daily update of actual, usable, stylish & delightful deals. Did you know there are 25% off coupons from FredFlare right now?? Neither did we! Have you checked out Spa Flyer for sweet deals & freebies at spas all over the country? You'll be addicted!

No need to thank us for the tip. We already know you're delighted.

Hello, I'm Eleanor Flitwick.

2005-07-25T00:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I finished Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince this week in just a little over 2 days. Loved it. Totally loved it. And I don't care what Joel Stein says. I still think #4 is my favorite; but this one is a close second.

I was a major skeptic about Harry Potter, and a late-comer to the frenzy, but people: if you don't think you'll like the books, you will. They're just good. That's all there is to it. Don't watch the movies - they're terrible. Turn off the boob tube and crack open the real deal.

In the meantime, I found this funny site that tells you your wizard name.
http://www.acciofirebolt.com/wizard/

Separated At Birth: Aunt Beep & Jessica Coen

2005-07-24T06:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know this is sort of old news, but I have been quite busy, and I still want to post about it.

For all you hardcore bloggers & gossipers out there, you've probably been following the little snark fight between Jessica Coen of Gawker & the New York Post's Page 6.
Personally (but having never met Jessica), I think the whole thing is a tad bit catty - even for Page 6. Regardless, I was surprised (and that's not to say delighted) to read Ms. Coen's retort which highlights colorful facts about her life - which, oddly enough mirror my own. ???
So, if you've ever wanted to know more about Aunt Beep, here are a few skeletons in my closet I finally feel free to release thanks to Ms. Gawker.
I solemnly swear the below statements are actually true. If you can locate family members, sorority sisters, Dr. Cassie or beep Daddy, they will confirm the below facts.
(My comments are in blue)

- I wore an eye patch in preschool because I had such terrible astigmatism in one eye. I wore mine in kindergarten; along with very thick glasses. My eyesight was 30/200. People made fun of me, and the patch hurt like hell when my mom ripped it off.
- I've attended only public schools my entire life. Sort of true, my college was private though.
- I wore flannels and converse in the early 90s. Sadly, I wore flannels, and Doc Martins.
- I was a keg-standing sorostitute in college. I consider my keg stand abilities to be above average in the nation. Yes. Yes. I was in a sorority...though I'm fairly certain the "heads of house" might have considered their decision a mistake.
- I tend to get easily sick when riding in the backseat. I'm a puker. This we differ. My sister was the puker. Which means she always got the front seat. So not fair.
- I had a skin-damaging tan while living in LA. I took care of the sun damage when I was a lifeguard. I'm pretty sure my skin is more damaged from the lovely LA air and water these days.
- I have several prescriptions, and I fill them at Rite Aid. Not several. One. And yes, it's at Rite Aid.

Jess. Give old Aunt Beep a jingle, next time you're in Los Angeles. We can do one-eyed keg stands for old time's sake.

City Scapes Exhibit at Lawrence Asher

2005-07-24T06:03:00.000-07:00

We visited the City-Scapes exhibit at Lawrence Asher Gallery last Saturday. Pretty good show, but my favorites were no suprise: Leora Lutz had a gorgeous exhibit of all her City-Scape colors, Jason Macaya had a scrumptious piece, and as always Jay Brockman is a delight to view... it was good to see my old friend - its been over a year.

Also bumped into handbag super-star Kim White , (whom I also haven't seen in waaaay to long) sporting a piece from her fall collection (LOVE!).

Considering all the events going on that night, the turn-out was impressive, which further indicates that art is alive and well in Los Angeles. Fabulous!

Guess I'll have to wait to see Basquiat when MOCA hosts hip hop kareoke night on Aug. 13th...

Snake River, Cowboy Art & a Mangy Moose

2005-07-12T17:28:00.000-07:00

"Hay Haulers"
by Donna Howell-Sickels

Beep Daddy and I just returned from a lovely few days in beautiful Jackson Hole, WY. We are tanned and at least 10 pounds the heavier from lots of sun, burgers, and Fat Tire...but I wouldn't have it any other way!

As I'm a Colorado native, I was pretty sure Jackson Hole was going to be beautiful, but folks, this little town at the base of the Grand Tetons is downright breath-taking.

We spent 1/2 a day rafting down the Snake River, and saw at least 17 bald eagles along the way. I have to say, they are much more regal perched on the bank of a river than they are on the dollar bill.

There were a couple rowdy nights at what is certainly one of my new favorite watering holes: The Mangy Moose in Teton Village. It's huge, it's loud, the drinks are ridiculously cheap and yes, there is a giant stuffed moose dragging a sleigh (or was it a ric-saw?) hanging 40 feet above from the ceiling. On Saturday night we jammed to Mandatory Air...a cover band headlined by the Miller Sisters: just about the coolest chicks I've seen in a while. Any gal that can belt "Dead or Alive" warrants my instant fandom.

Jackson Hole proper is the cutest town you ever did see. We loved the Saturday Farmer's market and the delicious rainier cherries. But most impressive was the overwhelming amount of galleries located right in the center of town. Again, as a Coloradoan, I have an ingrained appreciation for all things West - so to view cowboy art without my nose upturned is not hard. Surprisingly though, I found myself very upset that we couldn't leave town with at least 3 or 10 mouth-watering paintings tucked under our arms.

I was lucky to pop into Trailside Gallery and view works by one of their permanent artists: Donna Howell-Sickels (see above). Her paintings embody everything I love and admire about women, they capture the joy of a life lived outdoors- and amazingly, on a personal level- her subjects resonate a quality that somehow pinpoints all the strength and vibrance I see in my own mother.

Another gallery which impressed us both simply by its sheer volume of very eclectic regional works was Buffalo Trail Gallery; on the corner and packed with oodles of sculpture, paintings and some well-chosen photography.

What a difference Jackson Hole galleries are from those we frequent in LA. I saw a man in a bad tanktop and ragged shorts beaming as he purchased a beautiful work of art. Gallery directors smiled and waved at us as we passed their open doors...many men proudly wore suits & ties, and the women were well groomed and matronly. White walls were at a minimum.

We hear about New York, Chicago -and now thankfully - LA's art scene all the time, but I can tell you, Jackson Hole's is flourishing too - their prices are high and their artists are in demand.

"What is Art"? Is it in the critic's eye? Or the eye of the beholder? All the sudden standing in Jackson, I had to ask myself if I had turned into an art snob. Or worse, had I really forgotten what else is out there? Beyond the streets of Los Angeles? Can "patrons" be collectors of Native American works? Will the psychedelic cows and roosters of Linda St. Clair ever be written up in Art Forum? Does it matter?
Funny how on every road I take, that simple 3 word question always seems to get the best of me.

Gallery of the Absurd

2005-07-06T11:27:00.000-07:00

Ok, so its no new news that we're all creeped out by TomKat. I can't help but think this whole bizarro media blitz is part of Xenu's master plan to infiltrate society and make us all succumb to the aliens. Kirstie Ally's comeback...Kelly Preston on the record...its all too creepy if you ask me. Wait till Jenna Elfman re-surfaces, and then be very afraid.
I'm sad about Katie Holmes. She's a nice Ohio girl, and cults just don't match her style.

Anyway, art can come from many sources - and Beep is glad to have found Gallery of The Absurd; a voice of reason amidst the chaos, a refreshing perspective amidst the propaganda.

Consider this my final comment on the Tom Cruise Scare. I leave you to form your own opinions, and will go back to happily posting topics with a bit more depth.

7/12 NOTE: Ha! What did I say about Kirstie Alley? She's on the Sci-Train too...poor Brooke.

Vanessa Valore Free Lecture on July 13th

2005-07-03T09:49:00.000-07:00

Here is a free lecture to attend by a very talented artist, Vanessa Valore, who has transferred her talents into a prosperous career in architectural murals. Proof that the world of art holds opportunities for everyone...you can make a living doing what you love!

EVENT: Construction Light: The Magic of Architectural Painting
Event is Presented Through Pacific Design Center's Designer Lecture Series
DATE: Wednesday, July 13th
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - FREE
TIME: 10:00am (with reception to follow)
LOCATION: Pacific Design Center, Blue Conference Center, Suite B259
8687 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles // www.pacificdesigncenter.com
RSVP: 310-657-0800
DETAILS:
Speakers: Vanessa Valore of Valore Ventures, Muralist/Artist/Lecturer (clients include Robert DeNiro, Paul Rodriguez, and Jennifer Tilly).

Imagine easy and beautiful finishing architectural touches without construction! Learn about the comparative use of architectural painting versus tile or carved stone elements to enhance any home or business without the intrusion of demolition or construction. Beyond fine wall finishes and murals, decorative borders/architectural paintings serve in a highly functional manner, meeting specific design purposes both indoors and out. Presentation will compare price, time investment, labor and materials.
* Lecture series offers Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to design professionals.
Vanessa Valore was born and raised in Philadelphia and began formal art training at the age of five. At age 16, she moved to New York City to attend the prestigious Professional Children's School, dedicated to the study of all fine arts. She graduated and went on to attend Parson's School of Design. She moved to Santa Fe and obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Studio Art and Art History from the College of Santa Fe. She established Valore & Co. in Santa Fe in 1990, and today oversees the work of other artisans in addition to her own work.
For more information on Ms. Valore, please contact Julie Du Brow: 310-821-2463 julie@dubroworks.com.

LA City Beat Says: Eat Your Art Out on 6/29/05

2005-06-23T11:23:00.000-07:00

Boy are we excited for our new and improved Artful Supper this Wednesday, and the lovely article written by Dr. Rebecca Epstein in this week's issue of LA City Beat just makes us smile even more: Check it out, and find out just why we're so excited to be back with the beep Gallery Artful Supper! http://www.lacitybeat.com/article.php?id=2258&IssueNum=107.

We hope to see you all there - you will love the new works by Raphael Berry, and the food is delish! Call your Artful Entourage and book a table before they're all gone. Dinner reservations are avail from 7pm-10pm.

Call Berri's Cafe at: 323-852-0642 for reservations.

If you can't make the Supper, swing by between 6pm-7pm for a glass of wine, check out the works & say hello. No reason to miss all the festivities! PLUS Berri's Cafe is open LATE NIGHT until 4am, so swing by after 10:00pm, and I bet 'ya loads of people will still be there.

Also, check out the FAB article in my favorite local publication, The 3rd Street Villager:
http://www.3rdstreetvillager.com/view.php?issues=3&id=21

The ARTFUL SUPPER has Returned!

2005-06-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

The ARTFUL SUPPER has returned!
Now at Berri's Cafe

All Angelenos are cordially invited to the return of beep Gallery's infamous Artful Suppers
New, Improved, and Better than ever!
Please join us for an Artful evening showcasing Modern Portraitures in Oil by Los Angeles artist:
RAPHAEL BERRY

Artful Supper at Berri's Cafe
Wednesday, June 29
Preview: 6pm-7pm
Dinner with the Artist 7pm-10pm

Call for reservations: 323.852.0642

www.theberris.com

From the avid collector, to the artist, to the casual admirer, beep Gallery's Artful Suppers are open to any and all who love good food, great art, and fabulous people!

learn more...

Berri's Cafe
8412 W. 3rd Street
on the southwest side of 3rd and Orlando

Special Fixed Price Menu: $18
includes tapas, salad, entree & desert
please feel free to bring your own wine; no corkage fee
full bar

All artwork displayed will be for sale.

ABOUT THE ARTIST: Raphael Berry was born in Tunisia and raised in Paris by a Sicilian mother and a Tunisian father. He graduated from the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where he established a successful career as an interior architect and designer before moving to Los Angeles in 1984. While Raphael's career continued to flourish, his creativity expanded into other areas, including restaurants and nightclubs. After twenty years of hard work and a fast paced life, Raphael decided to return to France, where he bought a home in the countryside. It was here, amidst the beauty of the landscapes and the slower paced life of his youth, that he was inspired to paint again. For Raphael, painting is a method of relaxation, an outlet for creativity, as well as a reconnection to his past.

Raphael's artwork is a strong echo of all the cultures he has crossed, from Africa to Europe, Paris to Mexico City and, finally, Los Angeles. In his paintings, one can see the primitive and colorful influences of Mexico, as well as the tribal and exotic figures of Africa. The rhythm of his work comes from the various countries of the sun. Cultures that have won over his heart and greatly affected his paintings. His abstract expressions are full of contrasting colors, primitive lines and personal themes. One can see a mixture of temporalities and hear the warm sounds, melodies and Latino tempos that keep his brushes wildly alive, and his colors radiantly vivid. Raphael has, literally, been influenced by the world around him.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

Buckle Up or You'll Go To Court in Los Angeles

2005-06-15T16:02:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: You are about to read Bitter Beep.

Apparently the lovely city of Los Angeles doesn't make enough money off the $65 street sweeping tickets, the $35 parking tickets (many for mistakenly assuming that an available space on Santa Monica Blvd. fully accessible to shops and restaurants, and seemingly no different than any other space on the street is available for you to park your registered vehicle for the standard two hours, when in fack, its only an absurd 20 minutes), or the $45 parking tickets for failing to read all 27 signs while parking on a side street to visit a friend, or the speed traps on Hollywood Way, which is convienently the quickest way to Burbank airport. Apparently they don't make enough money charging .25 for every 7 1/2 minutes in downtown meters, or, again, making all meters 20 minutes, so you constantly have to run back to fill it up.

Apparently, Los Angeles needs more money to NOT fill the pot holes & NOT re-pave side streets, NOT patrol neighborhoods, and NOT cut down trees so we can see the damn signs. No, they've found a new source of revenue, and that my friends is your seat belt.
Now let me say this right now: of COURSE we should all wear our seat belts - it's the smart thing to do - but I fail to see how we need to be patroled while driving and monetarily penalized accordingly.
I had a sense it was coming down the lane when I started seeing LAPD propoganda commercials threatening us that wearing our seat belt IS THE LAW.
Just today, after turning out onto Wilshire Blvd, and pausing at a cross-walk I heard from behind me "LAPD!" and thought I was on a COPS episode. Mr. Macho was actually in a really tight shirt and driving a 10-speed, and felt he could frighten the bejeezus out of me from behind. He demanded my driver's license - I had to ask him 2 TIMES why he needed it, and finally Mr. Personality barked "SEAT BELT". Do you know their 10-speed bicycles have flashy lights? Wow. Mr. Cool cop should be really proud of himself. He actually had on bike racer's sunglasses.
He made me pull up behind his partner's bike (yes, they work in pairs), and took 10 minutes to right me out a ticket. Ok, fine. I got pulled over by a whimpy, pathetic, totally loser bike cop. Fine. Fine, I got a stupid ticket for not wearing my seatbelt for all of the 2 minutes that I was in my car. How much could it be? 10 bucks? 15? No. I HAVE TO GO TO COURT! ITS A MISDEMEANOR! Lord knows how much I'll have to pay, and forget about the hours I have to waste going all the way downtown and sitting around to find out.
Now, no one loves this city more than Aunt Beep, but I've got to tell you - I've about had it. It would be one thing if I felt like the police were really a fully integrated unit, but where was Mr. Cool Bike Cop when a guy in a huge truck ran a stop sign and hit me head on while I was crossing the intersection?? I was hit so bad the ambulance came, but because I wasn't "mortally wounded or bleeding" the cops did not show up to the scene of the accident. WHERE WAS THAT GUY'S TICKET?? WHERE IS HIS DAY IN COURT?
If you're gonna ruin my day and get all KGB about me taking my own safety into my OWN hands, then LAPD, you better damn well show up when I need you. That's at car accidents, at muggings, and at hit and runs. I am sick and tired of paying through the nose to this city and getting nothing in return. Don't you think all that time and energy could be better spent finding the 4 murder suspects wanted in the Miracle Mile area?? Or showing up to accidents to see if the driver was drunk?

But to get to the point, my little Beepsters. WATCH OUT FOR BIKE COPS. ESPECIALLY ON WILSHIRE BLVD. AND FAIRFAX. Bike cops are pathetic and rude becuase they have the most worthless jobs on the force, so if you think they're gonna be nice to you, think again. Just put your damn seatbelt on and drive slowly. If there are more than 3 signs on any sign post DON'T PARK THERE, and always keep spare change in your car for the meter. Consider this your Beep Public Service Announcement.

FINALLY!! Groovy E Cards!

2005-06-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

Forgive me if I'm way behind the times, but I just found the best website for e-cards EVER, and much to my suprise it's totally FREE!! Not partially free, not free but you must divulge all your personal information, just fabulously and easilly free.
I can be a bit of a flake at times, and (cough) um, forget a birthday here or there. I realize an e-card is a bit of a cop-out, but if its funny and heartfelt, at least its better than nothing, right??
I've about had it up to here with the lamo "other" sites and want you to pay, and the stuff STILL isn't funny, so imagine my joy finding HIPSTER CARDS.

I sent Beep Daddy a truly distasteful and enduring card to test out the system - it took me all of 10 seconds to fill in the fields and send him a morning "I Love You".
People, down with the teddy bears and syrupy music! Get thee to hipster cards and send a greeting to the ones you love.

...but don't forget the power of snail mail either!! Aunt Beep has some of the best blank note cards and occasion cards around! Check out our I LOVE DONUTS! series by TWEET, and a glorious selection of retro cool greetings from the ever-talented sidepony

sidepony cards

groovy e-cards by hipster cards: http://www.hipstercards.com
I Love Donuts by TWEET: http://www.auntbeep.com/eclectic/ECTWdonuts.html
sidepony cards for all occasions: http://www.auntbeep.com/eclectic/ECsidepony.html

Another great show at Bamboo Lane / revisited featuring PAIGE WERY

2005-06-11T13:58:00.000-07:00

Our own Leora Lutz has put together yet another tantalizing show: PORTRAITS featuring beep Gallery artist PAIGE WERY. If you haven't made it down to Chinatown's hottest new gallery, this is the show to do it...featuring other great artists like Joshua Petker & Marci Washington.

more info: www.bamboolane.com

Also, check out a great interview with Leora Lutz over on FecalFace.com (GREAT art Blog!)

Good Bye Brooklyn! Sarah Adina is back where she belongs!

2005-06-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

GOOD-BYE BROOKLYN!!!!

beep Gallery artist Sarah Adina has packed her brushes, shipped out her paintings, and finally made that long awaited move back from NYC to Sunny oh-so-Sunny LA.

She is setting up shop in Mar Vista, converting a shed in the backyard into a painting studio. Sarah finished her philosophy degree with honors from Columbia University this fall.

This spring, she made her biggest painting ever for a private commission, "Niether God Nor Cow." The paintings reflects some of the problems of moral philosophy Sarah had been grappling with during her time as a student. We think her problems make beautiful art!

She is also producing and directing short films, and working in film/tv production. "The Hole Project" was shot on Venice Beach last summer and was animated this spring: http://www.sarahadina.com/projects/thehole/

Sarah had a video art installation piece called "Six Televisions" at Manhattan's The Tank in March.

Her painting "Playtime" was recently made part of The Tank's permanent collection.

She says you can come by her soon-to-be studio in Mar Vista anytime! Perhaps a studio show is in order...hmmm...

Check out new works by Sarah Adina at beep Gallery: http://www.auntbeep.com/gallery/GAsarahadina.html

beep Gallery sponsors Marilyn Monroe VIP Reception

2005-06-06T12:18:00.000-07:00

Whew! What a month it's been! We've been adding on some amazing new designers (more on sidepony and one ear dog frog later), and also gearing up for a busy summer with lots of parties and events, including the return of the Artful Supper!

Last Wednesday, beep Gallery was one of the proud sponsors of the homesource / los angeles & Barclay Butera event: An Evening With An Icon, Happy Birthday Marilyn Monroe.

The amazingly fabulous party was held at Meson G and featured a preview of 20 selected items from the highly anticipated Marilyn Monroe Estate Auction (hosted by Julien's Auctions) which was held on Saturday. Perrier Jouet Champagne and Pravda Vodka Martinis flowed all evening, and we were thrilled that so many people came out to join us!

homesource / los angeles' publisher, Elizabeth Saab (who just so happens to be one of my best friends!) threw quite a gala evening; Paris Hilton, and her parent's Rick & Kathy Hilton were in attendance, along with an adorable Lindsay Lohan, the bubbly Charlene Tilton, and the ever fabulous Jeanne Carmen - best friend of Marilyn Monroe, and quite a lady!

Saturday's auction was so much fun! The items up for bid were amazing, and it was so exciting to watch the bidding wars on some of Marilyn Monroe's most personal possessions, including her personal address book, which auctioned off at $75,000.000!!!

Many thanks to the auntbeep.com artists and designers who leant their helping hands; the folks at Julien's Auctions are the best around, and everyone at Barclay Butera is just wonderful. Below are some pics taken by homesource's in-house photographer...our very own Jen Ditchik!

cocktails & yummy food by Meson G

Lindsay Lohan arriving

Sarah (aka Mini Beep), Elizabeth Saab, & Aunt Beep

Paris Hilton & Elizabeth Saab

with Lindsay Lohan & Jeanne Carmen

Aunt Beep with good friends Kari & Katie

with Kathy & Paris Hilton

all images were taken by Jen Ditchik and are the sole property of homesource / los angeles

Aunt Beep Reccommends Genlux Magazine

2005-05-12T07:58:00.000-07:00

If there's one thing you can say about Aunt Beep, it's that she loooves Los Angeles. So how excited are we that our good friends over at Genlux are debuting their fabulous glossy this month full of everything fresh, fashionable and fabulous about LA, catering specially to the savvy, style-conscious female shopper (you!).

Genlux, L.A.'s first fashion and beauty magazine with a unique "two-in-one" concept, premieres May 2005 with a spring/summer issue.

Genlux is literally two magazines in one. On one side are beautiful fashion layouts and flashy editorial features designed to showcase up-market goods (love!). Flip Genlux over, and on the other side is Genlux Shop. This side features brilliant product shots accompanied by the important information that women want: prices and where to buy (genius!).

The mission statement of Genlux magazine says it all...the magazine "combines high-end sophistication with trendy, bottom-line cool. Genlux's vibe is that of the Urban Luxe; think street chic meets Chanel, uptown meets downtown, and vintage meets modern. Genlux is a fabulous fusion of everything from both ends of the style spectrum, bringing quality, fine taste and cool to our reader." Fabulous.

As the lovely editor in chief Jennifer Disotell put it, "With the style in Los Angeles being significantly different than anywhere else, we wanted to create a magazine that women in Los Angeles can relate to and draw inspiration from. We also wanted to incorporate a sense of accessibility, which is where the shop side comes in."

Ladies, I think we have some reading to do!

You can subscribe to Genlux by visiting http://www.genlux.com./For those of you (sadly) outside LaLa's walls, consider this the perfect opportunity to stay up to date with all our lovely city has to offer.

You can bet Aunt Beep has already signed up! :)

The Quiet Life Camera Club

2005-05-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

I've been a HUGE fan of The Quiet Life's fabulous tee shirts for quite some time. Now they've started a groovy "Camera Club", which posts photos taken by...you!

The concept is a perfect amount of nonchalant creativity and understated coolness which makes the whole thing a perfectly sweet and wonderful reason to love their company even more.
The Quiet Life Camera Club: http://www.thequietlife.com/camera_club/cameraclub_intro.html

Join the Silent Revolution

2005-05-02T07:29:00.000-07:00

Aunt Beep is so excited to present you with our newest designer of handbags and accessories: Silent Revolution.

Maybe it's because of my new found obsession with pre-fab homes and the growing minimalist trend. Maybe its because of my fondness for any fashion items stark white, ingeniously designed, or creatively constructed. Maybe its because after 10 minutes with intrepid designer Andrea Toyas I was smitten with her enthusiasm, passion and vision for her line... Whatever the case, you will love Silent Revolution's sleek, minimalist handbags & messenger bags designed for both men and women.

An avid fan of electronic music, Toyas wanted to create a style that would reflect the music and lifestyle she enjoyed. Andrea wanted a style that would reflect a new found sense of identity as well as a new way of thinking about 21st century fashion. Beyond experimental music, Andrea's other big inspiration is minimalist architecture and design. Clean lines, strong details, and simple elements inspire Andrea to create clothing and accessories that follow this design ethos.

I've been carrying the ODYSSEY MESSENGER BAG for a few weeks now, and I have to say - I'm in love!

Beep Daddy loves the PARTICLE PORTFOLIO BAG as a sleek and modern alternative to the ho-hum briefcase for work.

Also, for an affordable but of minimalism at your fingertips, grab the one of Silent Revolution's three new clutches. Great for day or night!

Don't let the Revolution leave you behind!

view all Silent Revolution bags, messenger bags and clutches at: http://www.auntbeep.com/handbags/HBsilentrev.html

Aunt Beep reccommends: Off Your Rocker! A Fundraiser for More Than Shelter For Seniors

2005-04-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

WHAT: OFF YOUR ROCKER – “Dim Sum and Then Some”
An evening to celebrate life and honor the works of More Than Shelter For Seniors www.mtsfs.org

WHEN: Friday, April 29, 2005, 6:30pm – 10pm.
Dinner served promptly at 7pm

WHERE: The Empress Pavillion
988 N. Hill St. Los Angeles, CA

PURCHASE TICKETS!!

http://www.sirenssociety.org/offyourrocker2005/

One thing we all will do AGE! Help keep low to midincome seniors viable in the community! Have a great time and get a tax write off and let this be a charity you support this year!

Special Honorees: jazz icon KENNY BURELL, cinematic art director & Clint Eastwood collaborator HENRY BUMSTEAD, and the cast & creators of “JUDGING AMY”-Amy Brenneman will accept this award.

The Much Anticipated Sirens Society Silent Auction with: spa packages, Lily McNeal sweaters, restaurant certificates, a chartered Catalina Island flight, an Eames rocking chair & much more! Over 80 items so far!

A Unique Experience of Dim Sum at night with additional family style dining & hosted bars!

ARDEN KAYWIN, LA Music Awards Best Vocalist Nominee, & vocalist/guitarist JANEEN RAE HELLER open for LA’s own RUM BOOGIE lots of dancing with their fabulous & varied repertoire!

Couture fashion show straight from Hong Kong and London by Chinese couturier & cinema stars Russell Wong and Flora Zhang Tian Ai.

Renowned NBC Anchor JIM GIGGANS as Master of Ceremonies

**Off Your Rocker goodie bags!**

There are 365 days in a year but only ONE EVENING to be OFF YOUR ROCKER!

Beautiful Show & Art Opening SAT 4/30 in Chinatown

2005-04-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

"Pattern" April 30 - June 4, 2005
Reception for the artists: APRIL 30th, Saturday 7 - 10 pm
Bamboo Lane / Revisited
www.galleryrevisited.com
418 Bamboo Lane. Los Angeles, Ca 90012 - Chinatown.
213.620.1188

3 artists interpret literal & conceptual pattern.
Fumiko Amano Michiko Yao Jessica Robbins

Skylight Room: "More Patterns" - coinciding group show.

There is a common thread that moves through the work of these three artists to bring the flow of the exhibit full circle in concept & in representation. One focuses on line, the purpose of line & the function of the narrative represented. The second begins with the function of the narrative, then the purpose of the process. The third focuses on the purpose of the process & the focus of the lines/shapes.

For this exhibit, the artists were given the word "pattern" & some prompts relating to; patterns for sewing, patterns in social events or conversation, patterns in our surroundings…then left to create a new body of work with "pattern" in mind. The serendipity of curation lies within inviting these three artists to participate in the show & watching the unintentional synchronicity of the collective unconscious, resulting in a challenging exhibit with a common thread running through it (no pun intended).

**This show is in conjunction with Project by Project for CAST.
Project by Project is a non-profit organization that sponsors & promotes a different worthy cause each year. This year their beneficiary is CAST - The Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking. 80% of the people that CAST helps are women who have been brought to this country under false pretense. Many work in the garment industry or escort services.

Bamboo Lane / Revisited will be donating partial proceeds of all art sales in the gallery for duration of the exhibit to benefit CAST.

- Leora Lutz, Gallery Director.

Bamboo Lane / Revisited is located in Chinatown. On Bamboo Lane, a street alley North of College, East of Broadway. North on Broadway, pass College, make a left at the Phoenix Bakery Parking lot. Walk 1/2 way down- on your left...Big green building.
213.620.1188

French Women Don't Get Fat

2005-04-20T08:23:00.000-07:00

I knew there was a reason I just couldn't get into not eating carbs for the rest of my life. I also knew there was every reason in the world to enjoy wine with dinner, and some good chocolate at the end of the day...I knew someone out there had the answers. I just didn't realize she was French.
My infinitely wise and culture saavy mother literally walked me into the bookstore and bought this book for me. Not only is it extremely well written and easy to read, it is refreshing and enjoyable to learn how just a few minor altercations to our "American" way of approaching food can make all the difference in shedding those extra pounds.
Buy this book. Cook the Tagliatelle Pasta with Lemon, and enjoy a glass of champagne. Life is good!

All You Good People

2005-04-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

Many many thanks to all of you who came out to support Bazoo & her family last Thursday. By all accounts it was an overwhelming success, and we were able to raise even more money to help JP & Jennie pay for vet and legal fees.
There is still some gorgeous art available for purchase at Little Pedro's Blue Bongo...proceeds benefiting Beepers 4 Bazoo of course! Little Pedro's is a gem of a space - stop by have a drink & some chips & salsa and check it out. We are grateful for their open doors and fabulous hospitality for our first Art2Art event!

There is still much to do before this terrible event is resolved. I can hardly believe its been almost a month since Bazoo was shot. We still need press and political attention to this matter, which takes nothing but persistent and firm requests from all of us. The OC Weekly article was amazing, and hopefully that will spur results too.

The main post for Bazoo has gotten really long. From now on, I am going to be posting updates as they become available - always referencing the first post that started all your out-pouring, for easy cross reference.

I am proud of the good people in this state and beyond who have been instrumental in the progress JP & Jennie have made in seeking justice on this matter. I am also proud of the power that a blog can have in offering easily accessible information and spirited dialogue. It may be a crazy mixed up world we live in, but ya know what? It's still a pretty darn great one at the end of the day.

Love, Beep.

Art Show & FUNDRAISER FOR BAZOO APRIL 14th

2005-04-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE to read about how BAZOO-A NEIGHBORHOOD DOG- WAS SHOT WITHOUT REASON BY A LONG BEACH POLICE OFFICER

THIS THURSDAY NIGHT! YOU ARE ALL INVITED!!

Art2Art #1: This One's For Bazoo! created by elizabeth ai
Event Host: Tracey Tee of Aunt Beep & Elizabeth Ai of RTEA
Benefit/Outreach of Choice: Beepers 4 Bazoo

Place: Little Pedro's Blue Bongo http://www.littlepedros.com/
901 E. 1st St. Downtown LA CA 90012
Date: Thursday, April 14, 2005 (Exhibition up until May 10)
Time: 8pm-2am
Cost: $1 donation at door

Art2Art Mission:
Art2Art is an Art Show, a Fundraiser and an Opportunity. It is a community gathering of businesses, charities, and artists who seek to further their endeavors by celebrating the successes and challenges of their peers.
A portion of all art sales will go to benefit a current need in the community (i.e. Beepers 4 Bazoo) as well as to RTEA- a program dedicated to raising money for Inner-City art programs in Los Angeles.
Whether you're an artist, a merchant or just an art lover, ART2ART is an evening designed around you. Bring your portfolio to show to prospective gallery owners and dealers, bring fliers for fundraisers you're involved with, bring coupons to advertise your business, or bring your pocketbook to buy art from fresh, talented Los Angeles artists.
We believe that lending a helping hand brings you a helping hand. ART2ART is your chance to see your passions come to fruition.

Sights by:
Natalia Fabia
Paige Wery
Leora Lutz
Doug Murphy (plasticf*cker)
Blaine Fontana
Nathan Cartwright
Airika Dollner
Launa Bacon
Ron Outlaw
Jen Ditchik
Julie Rasmussen
Alayna Magnan
Kim Jensen

Sounds by:
Controlled Desire
Senior (of junior Senior)
Rudy Bleu (Club Spunk)
Alexis Rivera (Echo Park Records)

Beverages by:
Project www.project.bz

Community:
Bazoo http://www.auntbeep.blogspot.com
Little Pedro's Blue Bongo www.littlepedros.com
Aunt Beep www.auntbeep.com
Reaching to Embrace Arts (RTEA) www.rtea.org
Downtown LA Gallery Row (Kjell Hagan & Nic Cha Kim) www.galleryrow.org
Lincoln Heights Arts Collective (LHAC) www.lhac.org
Echo Park Records www.echoparkrecords.com
Fashion Peace www.fashionpeace.org
Project www.project.bz
Transport Gallery www.transportgallery.com
Hangar 1018 www.hangar1018.com
The Hive Gallery www.thehivegallery.com
Nine12Records www.nine12records.com
Echo Park Whirly Girls
Selah Artistic Giving Center Gallery www.selahagc.org
The Original Lefty's www.theoriginalleftys.com
X-Large Apparel www.xlarge.com

ABOUT BEEPERS 4 BAZOO: At 6am on March 23rd, 2005, Bazoo and her owner Jenni Ulrich were playing ball in Drake Park, Long Beach. For reasons yet to be clarified, a Long Beach Police Officer shot Bazoo once in the head and then again after she hit the ground. Bazoo was still holding the tennis ball in her mouth. To this date the LBPD has offered no reparations or apologies for this incident, and has instead chosen to release false accusations against Bazoo and her owners. Beepers 4 Bazoo is an attempt to raise funds to help Bazoo's family pay for legal and vet fees incurred after the shooting. All facts and statements can be viewed on the beep Blog, which has followed this event closely and with concern.

ABOUT RTEA: RTEA, a not-for-profit organization, is Reaching to Embrace Arts by adopting public schools and providing essential art supplies to harness and realize the creative potential of every student. We firmly believe that no child should be denied access to a dynamic arts curriculum. In partnership with students, parents, educators, artists, policy makers, business leaders, and the community at large, RTEA seeks to bypass social and economic barriers by generating new opportunities to nurture creativity in the present while building skills for the future.

NEIGHBORHOOD DOG IS SHOT WITHOUT REASON BY LONG BEACH POLICE OFFICER

2005-03-25T17:46:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,
Below are accounts of a tragic happening that took place on Wednesday, March 23rd in Long Beach California. This happened to a friend of mine. This is not heresy or a fabrication. This is a true account as told by my friend. Please read below, as we need all your help to bring light to this matter and hold those accountable for this grossly unfortunate incident.

I will be updating this blog at the end of JP's statement with new information. Your comments, advice and trackbacks are greatly appreciated.
3/27 **Media Contact information is provided within this post and in the comments section.
PLEASE CALL AND EMAIL!
******
My name is John Donahue. My girlfriend's name is Jennie Ullrich. We have lived together in the Daisy Artist's studios in the Wilmore section of Long Beach for over three years. We have two mutts we rescued from the pound when they were pups. We love them like children. We invested a lot of time socializing them to be non-aggressive. We invested a lot of time training them at dog school. They are great dogs. We are responsible owners. We can provide countless character witnesses from our building and our neighborhood to corroborate those facts.

At six AM on Wednesday morning, March 23rd, Long Beach Police shot one of our family dogs by the children's playground in Drake Park. The dog's name is Bazoo. We have played fetch with our dogs in the early morning in Drake Park every day since we got them.

The facts of the shooting are as follows:

Jennie and Bazoo were playing fetch at 6 AM in Drake Park. Bazoo had just chased down her favorite ball. An unknown LBPD Officer stepped out from behind a car and crossed her path. Bazoo stopped to look at him, curious, ball in her mouth. Then the Officer pulled his gun and shot her in the head. Bazoo went down. Officer never issued a word of warning. He didn't say stop. He didn't tell Bazoo no. He didn't even look at her owner standing 20 feet away. He just pulled his gun and opened fire.

Of course, the Unknown Officer claims Bazoo "attacked" or "charged" him. I'd really like to know just how, exactly, a dog attacks with a tennis ball in its mouth? It can't bite. And just how does a dog show aggression with a ball in its mouth? It can't growl or even bare its teeth. If the officer had noticed any of these things, he would have seen Bazoo was not charging anything but her ball. She was playing fetch and she was stopped when he pulled the trigger.

Despite these obvious facts, The Unknown Officer shot Bazoo anyway. To make matters worse, the first shot wasn't enough for him. Jennie screamed and pleaded for him to stop. She told him the dog wouldn't hurt him. He told her to stand back and then he shot Bazoo again on the ground. Apparently he felt that a dog shot in the head and bleeding on the ground with a ball in its mouth was still in "attack mode" or "charging".

Somehow Bazoo jumped up and ran away, scared to death and in shock. Jennie tried to catch her. Bazoo was too scared. She ran all the way home and scratched to be let in where it was safe, leaving bloody paw prints on the door. But no one could hear her. She finally hid in an alley afraid, traumatized, badly wounded, and confused by the horrible thing that had happened to her. That's where Jennie finally found Bazoo, with her ball still in her mouth.

Through it all Jennie was right there. She watched it all happen, powerless to stop it. When I finally got to the scene all I could do was hold her in my arms while she balled and screamed over and over "Why'd you shoot my dog!? Why!"

There simply is no justifiable reason. The Unknown Officer used excessive force when he shot Bazoo. There were so many other options available to him that his actions are inexcusable:

-Bazoo could not have attacked him or demonstrated aggression with a ball in her mouth. From the get go, he did not properly assess the situation.

-Bazoo never charged him. She was retrieving a ball and he crossed into her running path. She was stopped when he pulled the trigger.

-Bazoo's owner was right there waiting for Bazoo to bring back her ball. If the Unknown Officer was paying attention to his surroundings, he would've observed them playing fetch. If he had stopped to think, he would've known Bazoo wasn't a threat.

-The Unknown Officer could've asked Jennie to call her dog. Bazoo's been to dog school. I was there. She did well. She comes when she's called.

-The Unknown Officer was standing by his patrol car when it happened. If he really thought he was in danger, he could've simply got in and shut the door.

-The Unknown Officer could have chosen to use non-lethal force. I don't know what else he had but I know Patrol carries Tasers and mace. Police should be trained to use non-lethal force. Guns are a last resort.

-The Unknown Officer could have stopped shooting once Bazoo was on the ground. The fact that he didnt is pathetic, mean, and inexcusable.

-Finally, if Unknown Officer knew anything about the neighborhood he was working in, he would've known that Jennie, myself, and our dogs have played fetch in Drake Park every morning for years. In that time, Bazoo has never attacked anyone and not one LBPD Officer has ever asked that they be put on a leash. Jennie, myself, and our dogs are fixtures in the neighborhood and everyone who lives there or knows the neighborhood knows that Bazoo is not and never has been a threat to anyone.

Unknown Officer completely failed to correctly assess the situation and chose not to use any of the non-lethal options available to him. His first reaction was to pull his gun and use deadly force. What's going to happen when Unknown Officer comes up against a teenager with a cell phone in his hand? Will he fail to observe the facts, think its a gun, and open fire? Will he keep firing once the suspect is on the ground? Is this the kind of person we want roaming our streets with a gun? I don't think so. We must hold the people we trust to keep us all safe to a higher standard than this. Yesterday it was my dog. Tomorrow it could be your son.

To add insult to injury, the aftermath of the shooting was handled in an exceedingly poor fashion by the Department:

-Bazoo was bleeding to death on the pavement for close to an hour before she received any medical attention. We begged for the police to let us take her to the hospital but were refused permission to do so. We were held in "custody" like criminals while our dog was bleeding to death waiting for animal control to pick her up.

-We were told we had to remain in custody until the Watch Commander showed up. This took another hour. When he finally did make his appearance, he was aggressive, confrontational, and insistent that the dog attacked his Officer despite the fact that he wasnt there. We politely tried to engage him in dialogue about the incident. He puffed up his chest and said, confrontationally: "You calling me a liar!?" He didn't want to know the facts. He just wanted to intimidate us, cover his ass, and protect his man.

-After the Watch Commander fiasco, we were forced to remain in custody for another hour which prevented us from going to the hospital to see our wounded dog. When homicide finally showed up for the OIS investigation, they tried to Mirandize Jennie like a criminal and get her statement on tape. When she invoked her Sixth Amendment right to council, they kept pressing. Finally, when they realized she wouldn't talk to them, they wrote her a misdemeanor ticket for having a dog off leash and left. This is just plain pathetic, political covering up. It makes us sick.

-Since the time of the incident, myself and one of my lawyers have made numerous requests for police reports, badge numbers, and names of the officer/officers involved in the incident. As of this writing, not one document, name, or badge number has been provided. My phone calls have not been answered and messages have not been returned.

-Despite the fact that no information has been given to us, Long Beach PD saw fit to provide a patently false, self-serving account of the story to The Press Telegram that ran in yesterdays paper. The refusal of Long Beach PD to provide any information about the incident has prevented us from filing this complaint and speaking to the paper ourselves. LBPD is trying to control the information to manipulate public opinion and escape liability.

Bazoo was admitted to Lakewood Animal Hospital on the morning she was shot. She was released that evening but the following day was stricken with life threatening Grand Mal Seizures from the bullet wound to her head. She is currently at Advanced Critical Care in Tustin for more treatment and observation. We don't know if she will live. If she does live, she may never be the same fun loving, fetch playing dog we raised.

What has happened is a gross injustice and can not stand. We will not let it stand. Please help us set this right any way you can.

Thank you,
JP Donahue and Jennie Ullrich

UPDATE: Saturday, March 26 - 9:45am
Here is the press release the LBPD sent to the newspapers immediatley after the incident. Note it says nothing about shooting the dog twice, or the fact that Bazoo still had her tennis ball in her mouth and therefore was in NO WAY attacking or aggressive.
http://www.longbeach.gov/civica/press/display.asp?layout=4&Entry=360

UPDATE: 2:55pm
For those of you who have emailed me asking how to help:
JP's email address is:
mcjpd3@yahoo.com
if you have posted my personal emails or this blog link anywhere else on the web, please comment below and tell us where, so we make sure everyone is updated.

UPDATE: Sunday, March 27 - 3:14pm
PLEASE CONTACT THESE SOURCES AND LET THEM KNOW ABOUT THIS SITUATION:
-KCBS CBS 2: 323.460.3316 kcbstvnews@cbs.com & click here to submit an email
-NBC 4: story@nbc4.tv
-KTLA 5: Lynette Romero Investigates; click here to submit an email
-ABC 7 News Tips: 877.777.6397 or click here to submit an email
-KCAL 9 News: 323.467.9999
-FOX11:323.460.5500
newsdesk@fox11.com - undercover@fox11.com
talkback@fox11.com (GoodDayLA...Jillian Barbarie is a HUGE animal lover!!)
-UPN 13: 310.584.2000 upndesk@upn13.com

UPDATE: Monday, March 28 - 10:12am
We are getting some disappointing reports from people calling City Official's offices and receiving rude and dismissive responses (see comments section below). Therefore, it looks like more respectful, gracious but firm calls to Public Officials are necessary, in order to convince them that this is an important issue.
Below are direct numbers you can call. JP has already contacted these people as well. If you don't wish to go the phone route, please take 5 minutes to send emails to the above news media addresses.
1. Chief Of Police Anthony W. Batts: 562.570.73012
2. City Manager Gerald R. Miller: 562.570.65553
-Assistent City Manager (Mr. Miller is on vacation) Chris Shippey(?)
3. City Councilwoman Bonnie Lowenthal: 562.570.6919

UPDATE: Tuesday, March 29 - 8:36am
Bad news. Attempts to resolve this issue without litigation have been thwarted by the LBPD who is refusing to tell the truth. The Press-Telegram at least ran a follow up story to their pathetic initial coverage of the incident, but the facts remail twisted. Here is the article. We need your help contacting the media to investigate this incident now, more than ever. This is not just about a dog. This is about a gross abuse of power by an individual who chooses deadly force before all other options. If the tables were turned and a civilian shot a dog, both he and the DOG would be held accountable to the full extent of the law. Why is a policeman exempt from this? He was not attacked.

UPDATE: Tuesday, March 29 - 5:43pm
Good news! NBC Channel 4 is airing a story about Bazoo tonight at 6pm! Let's hope there's more where that came from!
Also, an Amazon Donation Fund has been set up for those of you wishing to contribute.

UPDATE: Tuesday, March 29 - 7:35pm
fyi: The Police Officer who shot Bazoo is Sgt. Steve Lauricella.

UPDATE: Wednesday, March 30 - 2:08pm
I've sent emails to all the news outlets urging them to cover this story like NBC. Feel free to do the same! :)
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO "BEEPERS FOR BAZOO" - a Fund to help Bazoo's family with legal & vet fees.

UPDATE: Thursday, April 7 - 8:20am
All your help and good thoughts seem to be working little by little. The OC Weekly will be writing an article about the ordeal for next week's issue. KTLA 5's Lynette Romero contacted us and is looking into doing a story.
I saw Bazoo on Sunday. She gets really tired easilly, but was wagging her tail and sooo sweet despite her bandaged, stumpy little foot and her head wounds.
I also have the written witness statement from the gentleman who saw what happened. I think I will try to post it somehow for you all to see. Thank you thank you thank you!

UPDATE: Thursday, April 14 - 12:22pm
I hope to see many of you at tonight's fundraiser!
CLICK HERE to read the OC Weekly article.

Nick Carter Forever

2005-03-25T09:42:00.000-08:00

While eating my cereal and polishing off my final cup of coffee, I decided to click the "next blog" button (see upper right corner), and check out what else is out there...
And I came to this: http://nickcarterforever.blogspot.com/ created by Wendy in South Carolina.
Sigh.
Oh Wendy. Wendy, Wendy, Wendy.

Despite the obvious troubled nature of this quietly psychotic blog dedicated to...Nick Carter?? The only other thing I've surmised by looking at various photos (posted with absolutely no comments or musings), is that Nick needs to lay off the Cheetos and hit the gym. He also has a striking resemblance to Anthony Federov** on American Idol (of which I am sadly sure there are equally disturbing dedicated blogs). The only difference between those two is that I think Anthony actually can sing, and doesn't have to take anger management classes.
**for what its worth I still insist that dear cheesy too-nice-for-TV Anthony looks exactly like my future Brother-In-Law.

Oh Wendy. Wendy, Wendy, Wendy.

Aunt Beep still loves you!

IMPORTANT: We Need Your Comments!

2005-03-21T09:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Without feedback, there is no way to improve in business. We are constantly striving to make Aunt Beep bigger, better, Beeper...and we need your help.
Please take a few moments to answer the below questions & indulge us with your thoughts about AuntBeep.com and the beep Blog.

Your thoughts/comments are very very important to us!!

1. Have you purchased anything from AuntBeep.com? Was it from the "gallery" or the "boutique"?

2. Do you feel AuntBeep.com is a place you might purchase from in the future? If so, please elaborate. If not, why?

3. What type of merchandise would you like to see more of?

4. What are your thoughts on the design and layout of AuntBeep.com & the beep Blog?

5. How did you find our blog?

6. How would you compare AuntBeep.com to other online boutiques and galleries?

7. Do you have an absolute favorite artist or designer who is currently showcased on AuntBeep.com?

8. Do you have any suggestions for us?

9. Do you have any comments?

Tray 6 Umbrellas are PICK OF THE DAY

2005-03-20T11:33:00.000-08:00

Aunt Beep's favorite umbrellas are the Pick of the Day over at The Stylephile (one of my most favorite blogs, by the way). Thanks Stylephile friends, MUAH!

It's been a rainy weekend here, and boy am I glad I have my fab lime green Garden Print umbrella to show off - I mean, use. ;)

Remember my little Beepsters - April SHOWERS bring May flowers...so make sure you're well prepared for the spring rains!

The Stylephile: http://weblogs.variety.com/the_style_phile/
Tray 6 Umbrellas: http://www.auntbeep.com/eclectic/ECtray6.html

Holly Wilder takes FIRST PRIZE at Exposure 2005!

2005-03-18T07:15:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to beep Gallery photographer HOLLY WILDER for taking first prize in this year's Exposure 2005 No Boundaries exhibit for her mysteriously nostalgic piece: Untitled
To learn more about Holly and her work, read answers to the Beep Questionnaire at the end of this post...

this image was taken with a Holga camera

Holly was one of 7 finalists chosen from over 50 talented photographers who entered this annual event.

SHOW INFORMATION

HELLADA Gallery & Los Angeles Photographers Present the 7th Annual

Exposure 2005

March 12 - 31, 2005

East Village Arts District, Long Beach CA

117 Linden Avenue, Ste G Long Beach, CA 90802 .

Tel./fax: 562.435-5232
EXPOSUREMMV@AOL.com

sponsored by FREESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHIC SUPPLIES & EPSON

Learn a bit more about Holly Wilder:

Where is your favorite place in Los Angeles and why?
Tough one, because I'm always trying to leave. Griffith Observatory on a clear day which doesn't happen too often.

In a few sentences describe your craft.
My craft is a psychological portrait, with nature as my model.

Do you look to the past, present or future for inspiration?
All three.

Tell us a bit about your education and/or experiences which lead you to being an artist
I love visuals that inspire and I love to create...My education was a bit of a travelog...and lead me to places I thought I never would go...sex, drugs, and art!

What are three words you would use to describe how you feel about your own work?
CURRENTLY HAPPILY SATISFIED

What artist are you drooling over right now? Why?
Steve Roden, just look at his website: www.inbetweennoise.com

Who do you consider to be an over-rated Master artist?
David Hockney

When did you know you wanted to be an artist above all else?
I like being a Mom above all else!

What are your thoughts on the current art scene in Los Angeles?
DEAD! IS THERE ONE????

What is your favorite paint color?
Crimson

Give the locals a good tip on where to buy great art supplies
THE ART STORE ON BEVERLY........OR ONLINE

What are 3 of your favorite web sites?
I can't list them publicly

What is the most vain thing you've ever done?
It involves surgery :)

What is your biggest vice?
Coffee with cream.

What is your biggest indulgence?
Toys for my son.

What time of day do you do your best work?
"...midnight is the twight of thought"

Passion...a blessing or a curse?
Passion is both a blessing and a curse, joy and pain.

List your major influences:
film, Disneyland, film, paintings, film, nature, film.

Aunt Beep recommends: THING

2005-03-14T08:24:00.000-08:00

I finally had the opportunity to visit the much celebrated exhibit at the UCLA Hammer Museum: THING, and what a treat it was.
Typically, sculpture is not my greatest passion, but THING challenges all pre-conceived notions of what sculpture is- and might be- by pushing the envelope of perception and limits in both material and form. To make it even better, THING is entirely focused on Los Angeles artists - just further proof that LA has (as if we all didn't know it!) a refreshing and monumental wealth of talented and visionary artists.
I felt like I was at a playground - the exhibit is all about sensory overload, and you literally want to skip between each eye-opening piece screaming WOW! I LOVE IT!!!! THIS IS AMAZING!

Hannah Greely

I believe THING'S success is due in part to the Hammer Museum's successful achievement of creating a museum that feel more like an over-sized art gallery. Ok, it's just not that big, but who cares? The layout is easy to follow and not overwhelming at all. It's light and airy, but not colossal as the Getty can even feel at times.
Take your $5 and head over to the Hammer. If you don't think you like "sculpture", go anyway. This is an exhibition of craft (read art.blogging.la's great post) and a beautiful display of how art (or let's say a painting to simplify even more) can blow up and transcend space and form. THING is a 3-dimensional, psychedelic, all-inclusive rainbow of thought and feeling. I can't wait to go back.

below are some of my favorite pieces from the show:

Kaz Oshiro

Kristen Morgin

Lara Schnitger
an Aunt Beep Favorite! "Betty Ford" embodies all things Beep.

photographer Holly Wilder: finalist in photo exhibition TONIGHT

2005-03-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Come out and view a large selection of wonderful photography by LA area artists, including beep Gallery artist Holly Wilder who is a finalist!

Exposure 2005 Photo Exhibition
featuring No Boundaries and Best of Show competitions

No Boundaries finalists are:
Andrienne Burk
Doug Hawks
Holly Wilder
Nathalie Jean Phelps
Michael Gordon

7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M. Cal. National Bank 555 E. Ocean Blvd.
Official Gala Opening of Exposure 2005

7:30 P.M. - 10:00 P.M. East Village Galleries
Over 20 venues will exhibit photoartworks around the area.
Self-guided Art Walk will be assisted by maps available at all exhibit locations.
All photography exhibitions will be open to the public offering the opportunity to meet the artists. There will be live music outdoors, snacks and refreshments.

8:30 P.M. - 8:45 P.M. Cal. National Bank 555 E. Ocean Blvd.
Announcement of the winners in No Boundaries and Best of Show competition.
All works selected as finalists in No Boundaries competition will be on display at the California National Bank. 555 E. Ocean Blvd.

Bands will provide entertainment together with snacks and refreshments served at the bar.

I HEART BLOGGERS

2005-03-04T21:16:00.000-08:00

go buy the coolest blog gear ever

http://www.iheartbloggers.com

Art Talk: Who Do You Prefer, and Why?

2005-03-03T16:11:00.000-08:00

Art is subjective. Art is what you make it. If you like it, it's art.
The debate about art is an eternal and mysterious one...probably why we all are so attracted to it in the first place!

Let's leave that big discussion for another blog: for now, tell us which of the below works you prefer - and if you're feeling verbose...tell us why. No need for PHD level lingo here - just your own words and a thought or two about what attracts you. You'll be surprised at what instant emotion you have on the subject.

1) The Oldest Trick by Paige Wery

2) Dona Sanchez by Elias Telles

3) Cow by Sarah Adina

4) Pathway by Holly Wilder

5) Final Boarding by Lionel Uhry

Ich Habe bin Ge-Bloggen

2005-03-02T21:33:00.000-08:00

Just when you think no one is out there listening, you go and find out they're writing about you in Deutschland. At least I think its Deutschland.
http://orangeisnotthenewpink.skynetblogs.be/

Anyway - hats off to Doug Murphy for crossing oceans, and bringing us all together. And thanks to the stylish folks at Orange Is Not The New Pink Blog for giving us a shout out. My blissful ignorance prevents me from thinking you actually said something mean.

Just cuz it makes me so darn giddy, I'm offering a FREE DOUG MURPHY PRINT of your choice to the first person who contacts me and mentions this blog. The winner will be posted next week.

Danke schoen meinen freunden.

"Blondie" by Doug Murphy

CHECK OUT HIS MANY HEADS
AND HANG A LITTLE CELEBRITY ON YOUR WALLS!

World On Fire

2005-03-01T07:36:00.000-08:00

For as long as I can remember, I have been a huge fan of Sarah McLachlan. I mean way, WAY before the Lilith Fair and Adia. I'm not really one to be a crazed fan, but this woman is truly an artist. In a pop age where performers can barely sing- let alone play any type of instrument- Ms. McLachlan has consistently proven that a woman doesn't have to be Toxic to be a star.

How thrilled was I to find this site: http://www.worldonfire.ca/ instead of producing a big budget video for her hit World on Fire, they donated all that hoopla money to various charities all over the world, and she sat on a chair and played the guitar. Amazing.

Watch her video & Pass it on!!

World On Fire by Sarah McLachlan

Donuts, Raindrops, & Beer

2005-02-25T15:15:00.000-08:00

It's Friday, you're tired - you're cold & wet. You've got the munchies.

Aunt Beep understands. Sometimes you just need a tall pint or a big sweetie to make it all ok. Fortunatly for you, we have both, and without the calories. Check out our newest Beepster: Tweet Projects and their irresistable collections of fine cards: Bars of New York City and Donuts!

If you're water logged and feeling a little blue, like everyone here in Southern California, then Tray 6 may be just what you're looking for. Intoducing the cutest and best made umbrellas you'll ever see. Ergonomically designed with a soft rubber handle, a smooth auto-open mechanism, and no pointy skin grabbing metal objects anywhere, a Tray 6 umbrella will want you to keep the rain drops a-fallin on your head.

Cheer up little soldier. Aunt Beep loves you!

The FONT of Aunt Beep

2005-02-16T11:06:00.000-08:00

I admit, I'm a sucker for these fun little learn-about-yourself thingys. So, to illuminate all of you, here's my Font - open, baring it's soul for all to see.
What font are you?? Take the quiz and tell me! I always love to learn about my Beepsters!!

Lucida Calligraphy - You tend towards the arts.
You tend to stand out in a crowd and have your
own style. Be careful not to be too aloof,
however.

What Font Are You? (Standard Fonts)
brought to you by Quizilla

Leora Lutz LOVES 3 Doors Down

2005-02-14T15:23:00.000-08:00

Check out the groovy Valentine's interview with cutie Brad Arnold of 3 Doors Down on Alloy.com - you may recognize some familiar artwork by our own Leora Lutz!

For those of you still interested, we have a few editons left of the Loves Me! Loves Me Not! Silloutette series...snatch one (or all three!) up and adorn your walls with scrumptious Love Birds all the year long.
Awwww....

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

And an extra special Valentine's smooch to my main squeeze, BEEP DADDY. Aunt Beep Loves Ya! Muah!!

Tsunami Relief Fundraiser Feb. 05 - Buy Art! Do Good!

2005-01-31T08:22:00.000-08:00

The talented Paige Wery has organized a terrific fundraiser to support the Tsunami Relief Effort. Over 30 Los Angeles artists have donated work to be sold with all proceeds going to Direct Relief International.
Stop by this Saturday Feb 5th and pick up some amazing works by beep Gallery artists:
Paige Wery
Elias Telles
Nicole Stevenson.
Many beep Gallery friends are also participating:
Parris Patton
Jim Varketta
Brooke Bailey
Jason Macaya
Julie Rasmussen
Stop by for some sake at Parris Patton's fabulous Chango Coffee House in Echo Park, and put your money where your mouth is! We'll see you there!!

Newsletter Extras: Leora Lutz

2005-01-26T18:20:00.000-08:00

ONE-OF-A KIND CUTE PUPPIES AND CUDDLY KITTENS AT REDUCED RATES!

2005-01-24T14:47:00.000-08:00

BEEP PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: Any SoCal peeps looking for a cute pet, this is a great event and a great organization.

For more information, the public is invited to visit any of the city’s six Animal Shelters, or call
1-888-452-7381
(TTY Hearing Impaired: 877-875-8205)
or visit the Department’s website at www.LAAnimalServices.com.

L.A. Animal Services, in partnership with Rescue & Humane Alliance Los Angeles, will host its first annual Save A Sweetheart Adoption Event at the South Los Angeles Shelter on Saturday, February 12th, from 10AM to 5PM.

Cute puppies, cuddly kittens, and playful dogs are all hoping for new homes as the City of Los Angeles reduces its adoption rates in order to find as many new homes as possible for the City’s South Los Angeles’ homeless animal population.

Animal adoptions fees normally range from $38 to $92 to cover license, vaccinations, microchipping and spaying or neutering the animal. The reduced rates will enable potential pet owners to adopt a new companion animal for $15 to $43 (plus $10 dog license if applicable) if they adopt an animal from the South Los Angeles Shelter on February 12th. This will save potential pet owners between $23 and $49 during the Save a Sweetheart event.

The South Los Angeles Shelter is located at 3612 Eleventh Avenue, between Exposition and Jefferson Blvd.

Those wanting to view the selection of animals available for adoption at the South Los Angeles or any city shelter can visit the Department'S website, http://www.laanimalservices.com/, where photos of all adoptable animals at all shelters are posted.