Ah-Ha Entertainment News

Casting Couch: Real Housewives San Diego seeks Rancho Santa Fe women...

It looks like the Real Housewives concept is coming to San Diego, and for more than just  the great weather. The company making the TV show - Asylum Entertainment - has a casting call out right now looking for women who live in the area.  

The producers are looking for upscale, women who live fabulous, glamorous lives along with their busy social calendars. They say they are looking for the best and brightest, so to speak, when it comes to wealth, glamour, and if you've seen those type of shows, a certain amount of panache and drama.

A series of 50 Tweets sent by the casting agents this week said they were focusing on the La Jolla and Rancho Sante Fe areas.

No word yet on a production schedule or when the show might hit the air.

If you are interested in auditioning for the potential new “Real Housewives of San Diego” show, email your name, age, bio, current photos and phone number to: alex@alexshaw.tv .

Alex Shaw, Director of Casting at Asylum, reached out to a variety of influential San Diegans and media reps via Twitter. Her post read: “Bravo CASTING Housewives of affluent SD areas (Rancho, La Jolla etc). Gorgeous, living the life!” Sources followed up with Shaw for the real story behind the Tweet.

Shaw sent  the Asylum release for the ‘Untitled Housewives Show.’

“Asylum Entertainment is casting its next show in the San Diego area. We are seeking upscale, affluent women living fabulous and glamorous lives.

“We along with a Major Cable Network are looking for outgoing, exciting, strong, focused women who reside in and around the San Diego area that want to share their lives. We are looking for women who are lively and energetic, with defined opinions and views. Our featured women should have busy lives, be involved with the community, have a strong work ethic, and an active social calendar. Most importantly, they should be enjoying the good life.”

The housewives concept launched in 2006 with “The Real Housewives of Orange County.” The original O.C. series is still filming new seasons, although characters have come and gone over the years. The Bravo network also chronicles the lives of housewives in New York City, Atlanta, New Jersey, Beverly Hills and Miami.

Former 'General Hospital' star Bobbi Jordan dies at age 75 at Encinitas, Calif.

Actually, Bobbi Jordan was a lot more than Rick and Jeff Webber's older sister on "General Hospital," she starred in "The Rounders" and "Blondie" and appeared in the films "Mame" and "A Guide for the Married Man," among other television, film and stage projects over a 40 year career.

Ms. Jordan died of a heart attack at her Encinitas home on Nov. 9, but details were released today. A memorial service is set for 3 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple, 939 Second St., Encinitas, CA 92024.

She is survived by her son, writer-director Jordan Roberts (March of the Penguins); her grandchildren, Brandon Roberts, a rock musician and songwriter; Cameron Roberts, a high school sophomore and aspiring actor; her sister, Reba Sue Waters; and her stepdaughter, Jessie Jacobson.

Ms. Jordan, born Roberta Carol Bartlett, moved from her hometown of Hardinsburg, Ky., to Chicago, then settled in Los Angeles to study opera. While working as a cocktail waitress, her manager at the club heard her singing in the kitchen and offered her a chance to audition for a musical the place was producing.

Ms. Jordan was cast as the lead in a modern-day telling of the Cinderella story and signed by William Morris. She then landed a role on The Rounders, an ABC Western that debuted in 1966.

Throughout her career, she performed onstage around the country, including a lead role in the first national tour of Stephen Sondheim's musical "Company," as well as regional theater productions of "Guys and Dolls," "Damn Yankees" and "South Pacific."

She appeared in films including "A Guide for the Married Man" with Walter Mathhau in 1967 and "Mame" with Lucille Ball in 1974.

Ms. Jordan transitioned into television in 1966, landing a series-regular role on the ABC Western "The Rounders," followed by roles on "Blondie," "Barbary Coast" and "Joe and Sons."

In the 1970s, she did a two-year stint as Terry Arnett on the daytime soap opera "General Hospital." In one memorable story arc on the ABC daytime soap, she crashed her car after the wife of the man she was dating -- just released from a sanitarium -- tampered with her brakes. (Of course, he would operate on her to save her life.)

 Terri Arnett (née Webber), left, was a fictional character on the popular ABC soap opera 'General Hospital'. She was portrayed by actress Bobbi Jordan from 1976 to 1977.

Background

Terri came to Port Charles to take care of her younger brother Rick and Jeff After their parents died. She married Dr. David Arnett, but he died soon after. After coming to Port Charles, she dated Dr. Mark Dante, but soon found out that he was married. Jeff later tried to commit suicide, and while he was lying in the hospital, Terri revealed to Steve Hardy that she had a secret. Terri's mother Helene had told her on her deathbed that that there was a letter that was to only be opened if Jeff's life was in danger. Terri and Steve went and got the letter. The letter said that Steve, not Lars, was Jeff's father.

Later, Mark's wife Mary-Ellen was released from a sanitarium, and she wanted to break up Mark and Terri. She had someone tamper with the brakes on Terri's car, and it crashed. Mark performed surgery on Terri and saved her life. Mary-Ellen later went back into a catatonic state. Terri then moved to Hollywood to pursue a singing career.

Relatives

Lars Webber (father; deceased) 

Helene Webber (mother; deceased) 

Rick Webber (brother; deceased) 

Jeff Webber (maternal half-brother) 

Laura Webber (adoptive niece) 

Mike Webber (nephew) 

Rick Webber Jr. (nephew) 

Steven Lars Webber (maternal half-nephew) 

Sarah Webber (maternal half-niece) 

Elizabeth Webber (maternal half-niece)

Later in the decade, Ms. Jordan had regular roles on the primetime comedies Turnabout, written by Steven Bochco and starring John Schuck and Sharon Gless, and Joe and Sons, with Richard S. Castellano and Jerry Stiller.

She also guest-starred on such series as The Man From U.N.C.L.E., The Wild Wild West, Love, American Style, Ironside, Barbary Coast, The Odd Couple, Charlie’s Angels, Diff’rent Strokes, One Day at a Time, Quincy M.E., Nero Wolfe and Highway to Heaven.

TV Appearances 

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Q&A with Ravi Shankar

Nov 4, 2012. A rare concert. The Ravi Shankar Foundation and the Indian Fine Arts Academy of San Diego presents An Evening with the Maestro Ravi Shankar, Celebrating His Tenth Decade. Performing with Ravi Shankar will be his daughter, Anoushka Shankar (sitar), Tanmoy Bose (tabla), Ravichandra Kulur (flute), and B.C. Manjunathl (mridangam). Time: 7:30pm, Location: Terrace Theater - Long Beach Convention Center and Entertainment. Ticketmaster or 1(800) 745-3000 for more ticket info.

 (For more: Visit 'The Culture Files' here...)

Acclaimed for bringing Eastern music to the West, Indian musician Ravi Shankar is returning to the stage – and for the first time in five years he’ll be joined by his daughter and disciple, Anoushka. It’s a reunion with special significance since the 92-year-old Encinitas resident recently had a health scare that left him in intensive care. An undisputed sitar virtuoso who taught the likes of George Harrison to play the instrument, Shankar will take the stage of the Long Beach Terrace Theater this Sunday night, November 4. But before then, we caught up with him and his wife, Sukanya Rajan, who chatted about his music, his foundation, and what inspires him.

How do you feel about being back on stage?

SR: He suffered from heart failure and pneumonia. He was in intensive care for two months so this is really a miracle.

RS: This is really a memorable time because of my condition. It’s also special to be performing in my hometown. Since 1956, I performed on my own all over the world and I’ve loved this area so much.

How do you feel about performing with your daughter?

RS: It is the ultimate pleasure. She is like an extension of myself. It’s a tremendous joy to work with her. She’s my best disciple and I’m very proud of her.

SR: She lives in England, so this is rare. It hasn’t happened since 2007. They improvise together. Even though she’s been performing with him all her life, he always surprises her. She’s always caught off-guard, it’s a challenge to accompany him.

How would you describe your style of music to new listeners?

RS: I always improvise and don’t think very much beforehand about what I’m going to play. I will be performing special ragas [melodies] I have not performed before. I love [improvising], it’s my specialty. For any new listener I would say it’s not pop or rock, but we have classical Indian music. We play melodies, ragas -- there are thousands of ragas and we choose three or four of them -- different talas, rhythm cycles. The listener needs to be open-minded, and I can assure them they won’t be disappointed.

What is your inspiration?

RS: I feel strongly the vibration of the people who are there, even if I don’t see them. The love and intensity gets into our music, and I feel connected. My big joy at present is my little grandson Zubin, my daughter Anoushka’s son. He’s such a joy. He’s named after Zubin Mehta, my great friend.

The concert is meant to bring awareness to the Ravi Shankar Foundation.  Could you tell us more about it?

SR: The foundation started in 1997. There is a beautiful center in Delhi, India, where upcoming musicians and dancers come to show their art. We aim to take music more into schools and introduce it to children here in the US.  We have an archive and recording studio there and we have a festival every year. The festival is about three to four days in February. We called it the George Harrison Festival after he passed away.

RS: George was a student, friend, and son. I started teaching him the sitar and he got into studying Indian philosophy and religion. We produced the concert of Bangladesh; it was the one big thing we did together.

Wondering what to do the week of Nov. 1...Here's some arts and entertainment events Part 2

Collie Buddz & New Kingston: Reggae/dance hall music with Los Rakas, Nala Kete and DJ Carlos Culture; 9 p.m. today; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $23-$25; bellyup.com or (858) 481-8140.

“If You Ever Leave Me … I’m Going With You!”: Longtime married performers Renee Taylor and Joe Bologna co-star in this new 100-minute comedy on the real-life whirlwind ride of their marriage, with anecdotes, film clips and scenes from many of their best-known shows; opens today and runs through Nov. 11; showtimes, 1 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 6:30 p.m. Sundays; Welk Resorts Theatre, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $44 ($59 with buffet meal); welktheatresandiego.com or (888) 802-7469.

“The Wizard of Oz”: The Classical Academy presents a student production of this stage musical based on the 1939 film version of L. Frank Baum’s novel; 6 p.m. today; 4 and 7 p.m. Friday; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $9; artcenter.org or (800) 988-4353.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream”: El Camino High School presents William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy reset in the city and swamps of 1920s New Orleans; 7 p.m. today, Saturday, Nov. 9 and 10; 2 p.m. Nov. 11; 400 Rancho Del Oro Drive, Oceanside; $8, general; $6, students; echsdrama.com or (760) 580-0375.

Santos Fine Art Galleries opens exhibit: An exhibit of artwork by New Hampshire artist Rick Hunt opens today and runs through Nov. 30; reception, 6-10 p.m. Nov. 10; 978 N. Coast Highway 101, Leucadia; santosfineartgalleries.com.

Del Mar Art Center opens exhibit: “Season Four: New Work by 36 Members” runs today through Jan. 30; 1555 Camino Del Mar, Suite 122, Del Mar; (858) 481-1678.

Watercolors exhibit in Encinitas: Encinitas watercolorist Mary Helmreigh is exhibiting her paintings through Nov. 27 at the Encinitas Civic Art Gallery; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays; 505 S. Vulcan Ave., Encinitas; (760) 633-2600.

“Zombie Prom” opens: Carlsbad Community Theatre presents the spooky rock ‘n’ roll musical comedy; 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; Avo Playhouse, 303 Main St., Vista; $15; vistixonline.com or (760) 724-2110.

Rome: Lead singer of Sublime With Rome; 9 p.m. Friday; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; bellyup.com or (858) 481-8140.

The Hutchins Consort: Classical violin octet performs neoclassical and romantic Russian works by Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky and Balakirev; 7:30 p.m. Friday; Schulman Auditorium, 1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad; $15-$25; hutchinsconsort.org or (888) 996-2838.

San Diego Brewers Guild Festival: The highlight of San Diego Beer Week is a tasting festival with more than 100 beers from San Diego craft breweries and food booths hosted by Allied Guild member restaurants, as well as live music; 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday; The Port Pavilion, Broadway Pier, San Diego; $35 ($55, VIP); sdbw.org/guild-festival or (800) 313-7960.

2012 Fall Academy Showcase: Oceanside Theatre Company’s Youth Academy presents its fall program of musical theater, mask, monologues and selected scenes; 5 p.m. Saturday; Brooks Theatre, 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; free; oceansidetheatre.org.

Palomar Chamber Singers and Palomar Chorale: “There and Back Again”: Choral music from American composers such as Samuel Barber, Alice Parker, Kirke Mechem, Libby Larsen and Leonard Bernstein; 8 p.m. Saturday; Performance Lab (D10), Palomar College, 1140 W. Mission Ave., San Marcos; $12, general; $10, seniors and staff; $8, students; palomarperforms.com or (760) 744-1150, ext. 2453.

San Diego County Postcard & Paper Collectibles Show: Dealers will display and sell all forms of collectibles including postcards, advertising trade cards, cigar labels, valentines, scrap, travel brochures, photos, stereographs, aviation, auto, railroad, ship, movie memorabilia, Western Americana and more; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $5; artcenter.org or (626) 665-9435.

Kathy Griffin: 7 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday; Pechanga Theater, Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula; $65-$90; pechanga.com/entertainment or (877) 711-2946.

La Jolla Symphony & Chorus: “Hero/Anti-Hero”: Season-opening program features Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, “Eroica”; two pieces by John Cage and the West Coast profile of Missy Mazzoli’s “Violent, Violent Sea”; 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday (preconcert lecture one hour before each performance); Mandeville Auditorium, UC San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla; $15-$29; lajollasymphony.com or (858) 534-4637.

Wondering what to do the week of Nov. 1...Here's some arts and entertainment events

 The Hutchins Consort: Classical violin octet performs neoclassical and romantic Russian works by Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky and Balakirev; 7:30 p.m. Friday; Schulman Auditorium, 1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad; $15-$25; hutchinsconsort.org or (888) 996-2838.

Rome: Lead singer of Sublime With Rome; 9 p.m. Friday; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; bellyup.com or (858) 481-8140.

Palomar Chamber Singers and Palomar Chorale: “There and Back Again”: Choral music from American composers such as Samuel Barber, Alice Parker, Kirke Mechem, Libby Larsen, Leonard Bernstein; 8 p.m. Saturday; Performance Lab (D10), Palomar College, 1140 W. Mission Ave., San Marcos; $12, general; $10, seniors and staff; $8, students; palomarperforms.com or (760) 744-1150, ext. 2453.

La Jolla Symphony & Chorus: “Hero/Anti-Hero”: Season-opening program features Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3, “Eroica”; two pieces by John Cage and the West Coast profile of Missy Mazzoli’s “Violent, Violent Sea”; 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday (preconcert lecture one hour before performance); Mandeville Auditorium, UC San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla; $15-$29; lajollasymphony.com or (858) 534-4637.

Peggy Watson: Acoustic folk solo concert; 2 p.m. Sunday; Fallbrook Library, 124 S. Mission Road, Fallbrook; free; peggywatsonsongs.com.

Jimmy and Enrique: New Village Art presents the fiery world-music duo; 7 p.m. Sunday; New Village Arts Theatre, 2787 State St., Carlsbad; $15; newvillagearts.org or (760) 433-3245.

Back to Back with Piolo Pascual and Angeline Quinto: Filipino pop artists; 7 p.m. Sunday; Pavilion, Harrah’s Rincon Casino, 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way, Valley Center; $40 and up; (800) 745-3000.

The Sterling Flutes: Professional and amateur flutists perform classical works; 2 p.m. Sunday; Encinitas Library, 540 Cornish Drive, Encinitas; free; (760) 753-7376.

Michael Sanchez Trio: San Diego jazz trio; 4 and 7 p.m. Nov. 7; Center Theater, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; free; artcenter.org or (800) 988-4253.

The Monkees: Reunited ’60s pop trio; 8 p.m. Monday; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $50-$100; artcenter.org or (800) 988-4253.

“Classical Sax”: Museum of Making Music presents an educational concert featuring saxophonist/lecturer Thomas Liley and pianist Matthew Gianforte performing works by Mozart, Debussy, Feld and Piazzolla; 7 p.m. Nov. 9; 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad; $15, adults; $8, students; museumofmakingmusic.org or (760) 438-5996.

Neave Trio: Piano/string quartet performs works by Ravel, Beethoven and Dvorak; 3 p.m. Nov. 10; Turrentine Room, Escondido Public Library, 239 S. Kalmia St., Escondido; free; free; (760) 839-4839.

Joseph Angelastro Trio: Bread of Life Rescue Mission hosts its annual Jazz Fest Concerts fundraiser; 1:30, 4 and 6:30 p.m. Nov. 10; Oceanside Civic Center, 300 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; $26.50; whitedovecreations.com.

Coco and Lafe: Folk duo; 7 p.m. Nov. 10; Templars Hall, Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Road, Poway; $18; sdfolkheritage.org or (858) 566-4040.

The Saxophobia Quartet: Museum of Making Music presents Rob Verdi’s jazz ensemble performing classic jazz melodies on different sax instruments; 7 p.m. Nov. 10; 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad; $20; museumofmakingmusic.org or (760) 438-5996.

James Harman: New Village Art presents the blues vocalist’s “Bamboo Porch” CD release party, featuring guitarist Nathan James; 7 p.m. Nov. 11; New Village Arts Theatre, 2787 State St., Carlsbad; $25; newvillagearts.org or (760) 433-3245.

Celebration of Music Education: The San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory presents a showcase of more than 600 San Diego student musicians; 1 and 5 p.m. Nov. 11; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $25, adults; $10, students; artcenter.org or (800) 988-4253.

Blue October: 8 p.m. Nov. 11; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $29.50; bellyup.com or (858) 481-8140.

Rob Machado Foundation Benefit with John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls, Jon Foreman of Switchfoot and Jon Swift: 8 p.m. Nov. 12; Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach; $40; bellyup.com or (858) 481-8140.

“Popcorn Night”: Hill Street Country Club hosts the first of a monthly series of art video screenings, supplemented with popcorn, wine, beer, appetizers and candy; this month’s screening includes new short films by BB Bastidas and Jack Spies and the feature film “Dark City”; 7 p.m. Nov. 9; Linksoul Lab; 530 S. Coast Highway, Oceanside; $5 (bring your own blanket, yoga mat, sleeping bag and pillows); hillstreetcountryclub.com or (760) 917-6666.

“Cavalia, A Magical Encounter Between Human and Horse”: The traveling equestrian big-top show features 49 horses and 39 riders, aerialists, acrobats, dancers and musicians; 8 p.m. Nov. 13, 15-17, 20-24; 3 p.m. Nov. 17 and 24; 2 p.m. Nov. 25; tented arena at Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd., San Diego; $49.50-$154.50, adults; $44.50-$154.50, seniors and youths 13-17; $39.50-$114.50, children ages 2 to 12; cavalia.net or (866) 999-8111.

Dance Studio Hour: MiraCosta College presents an informal student program of ballet, jazz, modern, tap, commercial, Latin and other dance forms; 7:30 p.m. Nov. 7; MiraCosta College, Room 5101, Dance Studio, 1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside; free; 760-795-6815.

BJM Danse: The Canadian dance company will present works never before seen in San Diego; 8 p.m. Nov. 8; Mandeville Auditorium, UC San Diego, La Jolla; $28-$46; artpower.ucsd.edu or (858) 534-8497.

Moscow Ballet’s “The Great Russian Nutcracker”: Touring production features a corps of 30 Russian dancers, larger-than-life puppets, nine painted backdrops, 3-D special effects and more than 200 costumes in this 20th annual production; 8 p.m. Nov. 10; Harrah’s Rincon Casino, 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way, Valley Center; $47-$68.50; ticketmaster.com or (800) 745-3000.

Performing Arts Workshop’s “The Nutcracker”: North County’s Performing Arts Workshop presents a performance of the holiday ballet featuring its Jr. Ballet Ensemble and students; 3 p.m. Nov. 24 and 25; Star Theatre, 402 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; dancepaw.com or (760) 753-2671.

“Shapes and Reflections”: MiraCosta College presents a concert of ballet, jazz, modern, tap, hip-hop, ballroom and other styles; preview, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29; regular performances, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30 and Dec. 1; 2 p.m. Dec. 1 and 2; MiraCosta College Theatre, Building 2000, 1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside; $12, general; $10, students; $8, preview and students; 760-795-6815.

“Almost, Maine”: Carlsbad High School presents John Cariani’s romantic comedy; 7 p.m. Nov. 8, 9 and 10; Carlsbad Cultural Arts Center, 3557 Monroe St., Carlsbad; $7.50; (760) 331-5764.

“Almost, Maine”: San Dieguito Academy presents John Cariani’s romantic comedy; 7 p.m. Nov. 8, 9 and 10; Clayton E. Liggett Theater, 800 Santa Fe Drive, Encinitas; $15, adults; $8, students; seatyourself.biz/sandieguito.

“Anything Goes”: Star Theatre Coast Kids presents a youth-cast production of this tap-dance musical classic; opens Nov. 9 and runs through Nov. 18; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Star Theatre, 402 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; $15, general; $12, seniors, students, military; $7, youth; startheatre.biz.

“Britain’s Finest”: New tribute show to the music of the Beatles; 7 p.m. Tuesdays; Welk Resorts Theatre, Welk Resorts San Diego, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $30, adults; $10, children; welktheatresandiego.com or 888-802-7469.

“The Cider House Rules”: Palomar College presents Peter Parnell’s stage adaptation of John Irving’s novel about a doctor-in-training’s coming of age at an orphanage in 1950s New England; opens Nov. 9 and runs through Nov. 18; showtimes, 4 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 5 p.m. Sundays; O2 Performance Studio, Palomar College, 1140 W. Mission Road, San Marcos; $12, general; $10, seniors; $8, students; (760) 744-1150, ext. 2453.

“Drinkin’ Singin’ & Swingin,’ Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!”: The Welk Resorts Theatre presents this holiday musical revue featuring the Rat Pack trio of “Frank, Sammy and Dino” in a Vegas-style nightclub setting; opens Nov. 14 and runs through Dec. 31; showtimes, 1 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; 8 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 6:30 p.m. Sundays; plus some additional performances; Welk Resorts Theatre, Welk Resorts San Diego, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; $54-$57 (or $69-$73 with buffet); welktheatresandiego.com or 888-802-7469.

“NVA Cabaret”: New Village Art Theatre presents a fundraising evening of live music and song; 8 p.m. Nov. 10; New Village Arts Theatre, 2787 State St., Carlsbad; $50; newvillagearts.org or (760) 433-3245.

“Oedipus Rex”: MiraCosta College presents the classic Greek tragedy about family and fate; opens Nov. 9 and runs through 18; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; MiraCosta College Theatre, 1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside; $12, general; $10, seniors; $8, students and preview (7:30 p.m. Nov. 8); miracosta.edu/artsandevents or (760) 795-6815.

“Over the River and Through the Woods”: Broadway Theatre presents Joe Dipietro’s comedy about a young New Jersey man trying to break free from the overprotective affections of his Italian-American grandparents; 7:30 p. m. Nov. 1-3; 1 p.m. Nov. 3 and 4; Broadway Theater, 340 E. Broadway, Vista; $17.50; broadwayvista.com or (760) 806-7905.

“Rapunzel”: North Coast Repertory’s Theatre School presents a tongue-in-cheek retelling of the children’s fairy tale; 11 a.m. Nov. 3, 4, 10 and 11; 987D Lomas Santa Fe Road, Solana Beach; northcoastrep.org or (858) 481-1055.

“A Tribute to Thurgood Marshall”: UC San Diego Theatre presents this solo play starring Antonio T.J. Johnson highlighting key moments and speeches from the life of the legendary Civil Rights leader and judicial scholar; 7 p.m. Nov. 8; UCSD Visual Arts Performance Space, La Jolla; free; (858) 534-4004.

2012 Fall Academy Showcase: Oceanside Theatre Company’s Youth Academy presents a program of musical theater, mask, monologues and scenes; 5 p.m. Nov. 3; Brooks Theatre, 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; free; oceansidetheatrer.org.

“Words By … Ira Gershwin and the Great American Songbook”: North Coast Repertory Theatre presents this world premiere musical revue featuring George Gershwin’s lyricist brother guiding the audience through the Great American Songbook; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays; through Nov. 18; North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach; $41-$47; northcoastrep.org or (858) 481-1055.

“The Wizard of Oz”: The Classical Academy presents a student production of this stage musical based on the L. Frank Baum’s novel; 6 p.m. Nov. 1; 4 and 7 p.m. Nov. 2; 2 and 7 p.m. Nov. 3; 2 p.m. Nov. 4; California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido; $9; artcenter.org or (800) 988-4353.

“Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots”: La Jolla Playhouse presents the world premiere musical by Wayne Coyne and Des McAnuff, featuring music by The Flaming Lips, about a young artist battling cancer in a modern psychedelic world; previews, Nov. 6-16; opens Nov. 17 and runs through Dec. 16; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 7 p.m. Sundays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; La Jolla Playhouse at Mandell Weiss Theatre, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla; ticket prices vary; lajollaplayhouse.org or (858) 55-1010.

“You Can’t Take It With You”: Oceanside Theatre Company presents this classic 1937 farce about a family hosting a number of unexpected visitors on the same night; preview, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 14; opens Nov. 16 and runs through Nov. 25; showtimes, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; Brooks Theatre, 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside; $14-$21; oceansidetheatre.org or (760) 433-8900.

“The Kitchen Witches”: PowPAC, Poway’s Community Theatre will hold auditions for this comedy by Caroline Smith; 7 p.m. Nov. 4 and 5; PowPAC, 13250 Poway Road, Poway; show runs Jan. 18-Feb. 17; jaymower4@gmail.com.

“South Pacific”: Welk Resorts Theatre San Diego will hold auditions for the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic; 11 a.m. Nov. 19; Welk Resort Theatre, 8860 Lawrence Welk Drive, Escondido; show runs Jan. 4-March 17; welktheatresandiego.com.

Artbeat on Main Street: “Beyond the Trees,” an exhibit of paintings by Vista painter Alexsandra Babic; artists Kait Matthews and Kris Petersen operate this new gallery and studio; hours, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturdays; 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays; 330 Main St., Vista; artbeatonmainstreet.com or 818-415-4339.

ArtHatch Gallery: “In the Fold,” an exhibit of paintings by Casey Weldon and Andrew Shondrick, runs Nov. 10 through Dec. 1; reception, 6-10 p.m. Nov. 10; hours, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; noon to 5 p.m. Sundays; 317 E. Grand Ave., Escondido; (760) 781-5779.

Artists Gallery: Starving Artist Super Sale runs through Nov. 3; hours, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays; 121 W. Grand Ave., Escondido; (760) 489-0338, (760) 741-3117 or escondidoartists.org.

Bernardo Heights Community Center: North County Society of Fine Arts presents its annual “Small Works: Beauty of the Season” exhibit in November and December; 16051 Bernardo Heights Parkway, Rancho Bernardo; ncsfa.org.

Bliss 101: “Saltwater,” an exhibit of work by husband-and-wife artists Kevin Roche and Susan Wickstrand-Roche of Encinitas, is on display; Roche is a surf photographer and Wickstrand-Roche creates beach/ocean-inspired collage-style paintings; 687 S. Coast Highway 101, Suite 151, Encinitas; (760) 487-1900.

Brandon Gallery: The sixth annual “Small Works Exhibition” runs Nov. 1-30; reception, 5-7 p.m. Nov. 3; hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays; 105 N. Main Ave., Fallbrook; fallbrookbrandongallery.org or (760) 723-1330.

Cannon Art Gallery: “Full Deck: A Short History of Skate Art,” an exhibit of more than 275 skateboards and skate decks, plus dozens of photographs and original skate art, runs through Dec. 30; hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays; Carlsbad City Library, 1775 Dove Lane, Carlsbad; (760) 602-2021.

Carlsbad-Oceanside Art League: An exhibit of reproductions and featured artist Scott Beale are on exhibit in November; hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Suite 101, Carlsbad; coalartgallery.com or (760) 434-8497.

Encinitas Library Gallery: North County Photographic Society’s 17th annual Members’ Photography Exhibition runs through Nov. 24; hours, 9:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays; 540 Cornish Drive, Encinitas; (760) 753-7376.

Escondido Municipal Gallery: “At the Edge of the Desert,” a solo show by Sylvia T. Clark, runs through Nov. 30; reception, 5:30-8 p.m. Nov. 10; “Art Riot” runs Nov. 9-Dec. 1; hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (extended hours to 8 p.m. every second Saturday); Escondido Municipal Gallery, 262 E. Grand Ave., Escondido; (760) 480-4101.

Front Porch Gallery: The gallery’s “Spiral Bound: The Spiritual Journey of Aging” runs through Nov. 4; “Coastal Artists: Shared Inspiration” opens Nov. 18 and runs through Jan. 4; hours, noon to 6 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 2903 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad; (760) 795-6120.

Kellogg Library Gallery: Cal State San Marcos presents “More than Casinos: California Indian Culture, Contributions and Communities,” an educational exhibit about the local American Indian communities, runs through Dec. 14; Cal State San Marcos, 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos; csusm.edu.

Linksoul Lab: “Mistaken Identity,” an exhibit of paintings by Carla Repice, runs through Nov. 17; 530 S. Coast Highway, Oceanside; (760) 917-6666.

Oceanside Art Gallery: “Cuba Libre,” an exhibit of photographs by Marv Sloben, Lisa Vella, Elaine McElhenny and Terry Scott Allen, runs through Nov. 19; Carlsbad Village Faire, Suite 103, 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad; (760) 845-9017.

Re-Gallery: “Conversations in the Woods,” a solo show by gallery owner Lester Corral, inspired by creatures great and small, is on display; 348 S. Cedros Ave., Suite H, Solana Beach; regallery.org or (858) 259-2001.

Santos Fine Art Galleries: “Work by New Hampshire artist Rick Hunt will be shown Nov. 1-30; reception, 6-10 p.m. Nov. 10; 978 N. Coast Highway 101, Leucadia; santosfineartgalleries.com.

Surface Art + Culture: A new exhibit of limited edition wood print surf art photographs by Myles McGuinness opens Nov. 3; Artist Alley, 206 N. Coast Highway, #212E, Oceanside; 9mphoto.com.

Twin Oaks Art Gallery: The Boys & Girls Club Fine Arts Exhibit opens Nov. 9 with a reception from 6-8 p.m.; 757 N. Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos; (760) 703-3889.

Vista Library Gallery: “Iris Gill: 1970-2012, Celebrating Her Life and Art,” a retrospective exhibition by the late artist, runs through Nov. 3; Vista Library Community Room, 700 Eucalyptus Ave., Vista; (760) 643-5100.

Machel Penn Shull of 'Machel's Ranch' TAKES CHARGE AT MILLE FLEURS Mardi Gras 2012...

 Think its easy organizing social events? Check out Machel Penn Shull, of Machel's Ranch Social Column, taking charge of the photo opp at Mille Fleurs on Mardi Gras Day for an upcoming column. Identify the ladies in the photo for bonus points. Or check them out next month at Machel's Ranch. 

And then there's the observer from fringe unit...

 MEANWHILE, BACK AT THE ABBEY...

Adios...

Didn't get enough 'Puppy Bowl' Superbowl Day? How about 24/7 DOGTV on Time-Warner, Cox....

The first and only television network for dogs, DOGTV, is making its debut in San Diego. Scientifically developed and tested for four years, DOGTV, "a new channel for man's best friend," launches today exclusively on Cox and Time Warner Cable in the San Diego market.

"Loving our dogs so much, we feel guilty when we leave them home alone," said Gilad Neumann, CEO of DOGTV. "DOGTV provides customized television entertainment, while the rest of the family is away at work or too busy to play. Studies show it relaxes and stimulates our dogs -- keeping them healthier and more content."

DOGTV is designed for dogs and approved by leaders in the pet industry. Backed by scientific research, humane societies and pet experts, DOGTV producers understand how dogs perceive the world. A creative team then spent hundreds of hours to produce appropriate content and test its benefits with dogs, dog owners, vets, and dog trainers before scheduling the official launch. To cater to a dog's unique sense of sight, hearing, and movement detection, DOGTV took great care to select the right visuals -- the scenery, scenarios, color palettes, camera angles, and transitions that appeal the most to dogs. In addition, the programming's audio soundtracks, including music and other sounds, were selected specifically with a dog's experience in mind.

Many people may be asking themselves, 'Do dogs really watch TV?'

"The answer is yes! Dogs respond to what they see and hear on TV, and enjoy TV the most when they see other dogs, other animals and even inanimate moving objects," said Dr. Nicholas H. Dodman, program director of the Animal Behavior Department of Clinical Sciences, Tufts University, Massachusetts. "YouTube has over 5,000 videos of dogs watching TV, and an increasing number of dog parents admit that they have seen their dog watching TV more than once. Unlike any other TV channel, every frame and every sound on DOGTV is designed 100 percent for dogs. DOGTV provides companionship -- the right company -- for a dog home alone."

DOGTV is designed as the perfect babysitter for dogs who have to stay home alone. Research shows that dogs feel better in the company of television, especially when the right content is on. DOGTV's three types of programming offer relaxing and stimulating content as well as positive behavioral reinforcements. Dogs that are left alone tend to become anxious so the relaxing sounds and music in the relaxing segment were created to keep the dog calm and peaceful. Many dogs also suffer from lack of stimulation, which becomes acute when their owner is away. The stimulating content will provide the dog with invigorating images, animation and exciting real world sounds to keep the dog up and running. DOGTV's programming meets a dog's typical daily cycle and helps prevent mental fatigue, depression and boredom. DOGTV is scientifically proven to reduce stress, add pleasure and improve a dog's development, according to research from Tufts University.

"Animals need visual and auditory simulation throughout the day. DOGTV presents a breakthrough with programming that is created specifically for dogs," said Dr. Nicholas H. Dodman. "It will help millions of dogs that are left home alone every day and also help pet parents who don't have the luxury of taking their dog with them to work or paying for doggy daycare."

Beginning today, DOGTV is available to Cox and Time Warner Cable households. On Cox, pet parents can find it on Channel 2635. On Time Warner, pet parents should go to Channel 148, select Find It On Demand, and then select My Pet. DOGTV is free for a limited time during the launch in San Diego. At a later date, DOGTV will be available on a subscription basis for a low monthly fee, approximately $4.99 per month.

For more information and to learn more, visit DOGTV at www.dogtv.com .

Mexican 'Luxury Cinema' Cinepolis Making Over Del Mar Highlands Entertainment Exerience..

Cinepolis at Del Mar Highlands costs A LOT, in the $14 to $18 range. However, it is an advanced movie entertainment venue concept first applied in Mexico. Here go three local takes on the subject. I can;t comment personally because THERE'S NO WAY IN HELL I'M GOING TO PAY $15+ FOR MOVIE TICKETS, PLUS MORE FOR FOOD AND DRINKS. Sorry, that's not happening no way no how, but these guys have been there , done that and want to share a few thoughts on the subject at hand. -- Dan Weisman

Cinepolis doesn't look like a typical movie theater. Dave and Kris Litvak, patrons of the new cinema in San Diego, say it's more like a chic hotel.

Before the building was renovated, "it looked like a horrible kind of movie theater," Dave Litvak says. Now, he says, "it's modern, and it's elegant."

The lobby floors are dark hardwood, and there's an art gallery. General Manager Antonio Garcia points to people sipping cocktails at the bar.

"We have an extensive wine menu with 40 different wines. We also have an extensive drink list from chili mango martinis to the Cinepolis Magnificent Margarita," he says.

Small dining tables are dotted about. Sushi and fancy finger foods are made fresh in the kitchen.

And, you can order this all with the push of a button from your cushy, leather powered recliner in the chain's state-of-the-art theaters.

Surprising Origins

People in the lobby have as many guesses about the concept's origin as flavors of popcorn on the menu. When Kristen Blakeman finds out Cinepolis is from Mexico, she's surprised.

"Typically, things go the other way, as opposed to this kind of luxury coming up here from there," Blakeman says.

Carlos Wellman, who manages Cinepolis' U.S. expansion, grew up in Mexico City.

Cinepolis began in Mexico in the late 1940s, and it is now the world's fourth-largest cinema chain. Wellman says it was tough to open on this side of the border.

"It's always been, like even since I was a little kid, explaining to people that we don't necessarily drive burros and eat tacos every single day," he says.

Mexican businesses have been coming to the U.S. for years. Baked goods manufacturers Entenmann's and Thomas' are owned by a Mexican company, Grupo Bimbo.

A New Trend

Traditionally, it's huge Mexican corporations that buy existing U.S. companies. But Cinepolis is on the cusp of a new trend: Mexican companies coming to the U.S. as themselves.

"The small companies of the young entrepreneurs—they say, 'I have the vision. I have the energy. I am not afraid of the U.S. I feel very comfortable in the U.S. market. I have a good product and I can be successful there,'" says San Diego attorney Enrique Hernandez.

Hernandez specializes in helping Mexicans conduct business in the U.S. Cinepolis is one of his clients. Hernandez says many of these businessmen, like two of the Cinepolis USA partners, got graduate degrees in the U.S.

Back at the movie theater, Cinepolis director Carlos Wellman says he hopes the theaters expand people's perception of Mexico.

"There are surprising companies that people aren't necessarily aware of that came from Mexico — the education, the culture, the population. And we hope this will set a standard," he says.

Cinepolis has identified 15 markets across the U.S. that it plans to move into. The business wants to be as synonymous with film as Thomas' is with English muffins.

-- Mary Isakson, NPR San Diego at http://www.npr.org/2011/08/12/138825679/mexican-theater-chain-projects-its-future-in-u-s

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If you want more from your movie theatre, get ready to fall in love withCinepolis Luxury Cinemas in Del Mar Highlands. The next generation of movie-going fun, Cinepolis offers a premium theatre experience enhanced with plush seating, high-tech digital equipment, servers, local craft beer and wine, and a menu of real food, in addition to all the popcorn and candy you can handle.

Part of the Del Mar Highland’s massive makeover, Cinepolis is the new face of the former Ultrastar Cinemas location, following a $5 million remodel, perched on the shopping center’s second story. Within Cinepolis are eight auditoriums with high-quality state of the art digital equipment, HD, 3D and surround sound technologies. Each auditorium seats up to 78 guests in custom designed, high-back, leather recliner chairs that offer seven-feet of personal space, as well as in-seat waiter service buttons for all your emergency beer and candy requests during the show. But the VIP perks start before you even enter the auditorium; the lobby’s touch-screen monitors enable you to preview movies, buy tickets and reserve special seats all at the touch of a finger.

-- Michelle Guerin http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jul/25/cinepolis-luxury-cinemas-opens-del-mar/

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Sneaking away to the movies is one of my favorite little treats, and it just got even better! If you are like me, and thought it would be the best idea ever to enjoy a glass of wine and lounge in a cozy chair while watching a brand new movie in the theatre, you will be thrilled to hear that now you can! The Cinepolis Luxury Theatre is now open in the Del Mar Highlands Town Centre.  Cinepolis is the largest cineplex chain in latin America, their goal is committed to the luxury of the patron.

Cinepolis takes it far beyond my simple desire to sip wine in a cozy chair, they have a top notch full bar {and I don’t hesitate to say top notch, I happened to notice the beautiful white and blue bottle of Clase Azul Reposado Ultra Premium Tequila in the bar}. You will also have the option to dine in the lobby at the gourmet concession stand, which actually resembles more of a cafe style than consession stand. If you prefer you could simply go straight to your seat and hit the nifty call button for a server to appear at your seat ready to take your order. The menu includes items such as Angus beef sliders, flat bread pizza, wraps, coconut shrimp and quesadillas.

They also have movie classics like candy and popcorn, but they stepped it up a notch and offer the popcorn in six different flavors: butter, caramel, spicy chili, cheddar cheese, cinnamon roll and zebra (black and white chocolate covered) your choice is then  served in a footed cone bowl.

We were lucky enough that our babysitter was available this past friday for the Grand Opening. It was quite the experience. I truly never thought I would see such an establishment. I was tickled with excitement as I ordered my cocktail when we arrived more than a hour early for the show. I opted for the sangria and enjoyed it in the lounge. Cinema 1 and 2 are the only cinema’s that allow you to have a cocktail while watching the movie. Since we were in Cinema 1  we wanted to experience ordering from the theatre. I wasn’t quite sure how they would pull off being discreet while they took your order and then stelthly served you after. We were pleasantly surprised that they pulled it off. We saw Horrible Bosses, and thought it was hilarious. The slightly higher price, $14-$18, was more than worth it. It’s comparable to flying first class as opposed to coach.  I can not wait to go back to the movies!!!!

http://coastalfamilyliving.com/2011/07/25/cinepolis-luxury-cinemas-in-del-mar/

Play Ball with the Splendid Splinter at North Coast Repertory Theatre, Solana Beach, Calif.

THE SCOOP

“Ted Williams: A Tip of the Cap”

When: 7:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday

Where: North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, Calif.

Tickets: $15-20

Phone: (858) 481-1055

Online: northcoastrep.org

June 20 & 21, 2011

7:30pm

Written by Matt Thompson

Directed by Tina Polzin &

Matt Thompson 

Commissioned by NCR Artistic Director David Ellenstein and underwritten by the San Diego Hall of Champions Museum.

This one person tour de force performance encompasses the life of one of baseball’s legendary greats: The Boston Red Sox’s Ted Williams. Through the art of performance and visual imagery, we follow Ted’s life from his humble beginnings in San Diego to his shining accomplishments on the diamond.

The Splendid Splinter recalls his life both on and off the field as we are privy to his failed marriages, distant sense of family and his scoffs with the media as well as his heroics of The Korean War, his near impossible accomplishment of hitting .406, and finally his entrance into baseball’s Hall of Fame.

“Baseball is the only place where you can fail seven out of ten times and be considered a success. Maybe my life mirrored the sport more than I could have ever known.” – Ted Williams.

(Photo: Johnny Clark portrays Ted Williams in the world premiere of "Ted Williams: A Tip of the Cap," at North Coast Rep in Solana Beach. — Courtesy of Valerie Henderson)

“A Tip of the Cap,” which stars the L.A.-based actor Johnny Clark, follows the Hoover High grad and batting hero’s career from his early days in the 1930s (Williams’ first pro team was the minor league Padres) to his post-playing time as manager of the Washington Senators.

In between came all those still-startling achievements by “Teddy Ballgame,” who died in 2002: his six American League batting titles, his career .344 average, his pair of Triple Crowns, his .406 average in 1941 (the last time any major league baseball player has hit above .400).

Its writer is Matt Thompson, a wide-ranging playwright, director and actor who also heads the Solana Beachcompany’s education programs. Thompson was commissioned by NCRT artistic director David Ellenstein two years ago to create the workshop piece, which will be restaged at the San Diego Hall of Champions later this summer.

The project’s original inspiration came from the hall’s late founder, Bob Breitbard, a childhood friend of Williams’ and a local sports legend in his own right. (He opened the San Diego Sports Arena and brought professional hockey and basketball franchises to town.)

Rancho Santa Fe filmmaker Palmedo-Smith and resident Bob Baker present 'Hold At All Costs' was shown Memorial Day, on KPBS-TV, Channel 15 in San Diego, Calif.

Glen Palmedo-Smith and Bob Baker are two Rancho Santa Fe residents who have made their marks in different fields. They teamed up for 'Hold At All Costs" a documentary about the Korean War that had a private screening earlier this summer at a Mission Valley cinema. It aired on KPBS-TV, Channel 15 on Memorial Day.

Baker, 78, is well-known as a successful car dealer. What's less well known is his earlier service to the nation following a 1951 deployment to Korea. He was a machine gunner at a small hill 60 miles north of Seoul called 'Outpost Harry.' The hill came under sustained attack by Chinese troops in June 1953.

Ordered by commanders to "hold at all costs" Outpost Harry, only 30 of the 300 men defending the hill survived. Not known at the time, secret talks to create the conflict's cease-fire that continues today already had begun when the attack occurred. Some analysts call this battle a key in ending hostilities.

-- Dan Weisman, founder/editor Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News

HOLD AT ALL COSTS: KOREAThe Story of Forgotten Warriors, in a Forgotten Battle, of a Forgotten War

 Little has been written on the Korean War and even less on trench warfare and the desperate battles fought for control of isolated outposts that marked its closing months. For the very first time, a documentary film, Hold At All Costs, examines one specific battle; the epic attack and defense of Outpost Harry, where American, Greek and South Korean soldiers fought and died against incredible odds to hold a vital position from massive Chinese barrage.

The film -- to be aired at 9 p.m. Monday, May 30, Memorial Day -- honors this year's 60th anniversary of the war's commencement. The concept, a relatively novel one; told by the men and women who actually fought it, but from all sides. This 80-minute effort focuses on the survivors of The Battle at Outpost (OP) Harry and how this horrific event affected their remaining years.

The US 3rd Infantry Division had orders to hold OP Harry at all costs -- the Chinese intended to seize it. On 10 June 1953, 3,000 Chinese assaulted the position, defended by King Company, 15th Infantry Regiment -- about 200 US soldiers.

Massive artillery fire -- 90,000 US and 30,000 Chinese shells -- decimated both sides. K Company and then reinforcing units of about a hundred -- at terrible human cost -- ejected the attackers from the trenches in close combat, with only about 30 US soldiers walking off the mountain unscathed the next morning. But the Chinese would return again and again for eight subsequent nights.

The film depicts interviews with American, South Korean, Greek and Chinese veterans -- in addition to introducing three Generals, MASH nurses, the South Korean Prime Minister, noted scholars and political commentators Newt Gingrich, US Sen. Richard Lugar, US Con. Charles Rangel, S. Korean Honorable Hwang and Oliver North.

By dedicating an entire program to the buildup, battle and its aftermath, while endearing the audience to these soldiers, a unique perspective is given to the greater Korean War. These combatants -- who are so proud of their service -- are grateful that before their generation is gone, a document is finally procured to preserve the memory of the soldiers who fell attacking and defending OP Harry to HOLD AT ALL COSTS.

With a new world order imminent, the term "Hold At All Costs" is ultimately what the Korean War or Cold War were all about. It is hopeful that these stories represent all soldiers of that era and perhaps all soldiers everywhere, throughout time. Narrated by Edward Herrmann (FDR & The Gilmore Girls), Edited by Chris Peterson, (Who Killed The Electric Car), Produced by Bob Baker Family Foundation and Directed by Glenn Palmedo-Smith, (Discovering Ellis Ruley & The Hungry Woman), this is a war documentary like never told before...

-- DINI Films International

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 "Hold At All Costs"

Q & A with filmmaker, Glenn Palmedo-Smith

Q. How did this film originate?

A.  Produced by the "The Bob Baker Family Foundation", Bob Baker, a veteran of OP Harry, reached out to me  regarding the untold story. I’m a filmmaker with more than 25 years experience. After earning a BS in Telecommunications and Film at SDSU, I’ve since completed a handful of documentaries, a feature film (The Hungry Woman) and dozens of biographies and tribute videos and films for clients. I’ve also been published by Crown Publishing. 

Q. What inspired this movie?

A. Bob Baker inspired the movie, and was the driving force behind it. After returning to the US from Korea, Baker became one of the most successful car dealers in CA. He’d always been a religious man, and he raised a large and successful family. After surviving surge of unimaginable scale from Chinese forces on OP Harry, he felt he could afford it, and therefore owed it to the soldiers he fought with, and in particular those who didn’t made it back. When thinking back on a battle that changed the course of a nation (Korea) and much of the world following that, he wanted people to know what happened, and at what price victory was won.

Q. What was so exceptional about Outpost Harry that it deserves its own documentary?

A.  OP Harry may have been the most decisive of the final battles of that conflict, and the one that convinced the North Korean and Chinese forces that the US was not going to give up. The order, Hold At All Costs, was not given often, nor was it given lightly. It means, “Maintain your position, or die trying”. It was given to US forces, though, and it was also an order given to the Chinese. But the US “held”. That’s the motto of the survivors. “We Held”. After more than a week of fighting, from June 10 – 18, the Chinese gave up. It was June 1953 and the peace talks had been secretly taking place between UN officials and the North Koreans since 1951, so many believe it was the final straw that convinced the North that the best they could do was a cease-fire.

Q. What separates Hold at all Costs from other documentaries?

A. First , it’s the only one I know of that tells the story of this battle. Also interesting to viewers will be the never-before-seen footage shot by the soldiers who fought. We have 120 minutes of footage that’s never been seen publicly. And there are some amazing moments. Also, we have several Chinese soldiers who talk openly about their experience from the “enemy” side. It provides an amazing contrast and look into the fear they too experienced. War is hell for everyone involved, the winners and the losers. And this war officially had neither.

Q. What do you hope to accomplish with this film?

A. Anyone looking for a typical "military documentary" is going to be disappointed. This is a film about a group of men who found themselves in an extraordinary situation and prevailed. It shows what can be done under extreme adversity, when all the chips are on the line. Bob and his fellow soldiers held a critical piece of land through an onslaught of unimaginable scale because they were well trained dedicated and they believed in what they were doing. I want viewers to take away from this film that strength comes from within. But I also want people to know the Korean War was no "peace keeping" mission. It was war, and the soldiers who fought there were heroes. They protected an entire nation. And that nation has grown in the ensuing 60 years to go on and accomplish great things.

Q. How did the film-making process begin?

A. Bob Baker, who is a San Diego resident, saw one of my films at a small, local theater and contacted me with the idea of producing a feature-length motion picture about the battle. After starting the process of interviewing several of Baker’s colleagues who’d fought with him, I became convinced the story was best told by the warriors who were there fighting it, not by some actors. The access Bob provided was unprecedented. We had access to three US Generals, one South Korean General, two MASH nurses, one CCF (Chinese Communist Forces) nurse, twenty-five US veterans, six former CCF combatants, two military historians, the Veterans’ Committee chairman of Korea’s National Assembly, three notable US politicians, two national veteran advocates, three Greek Spartan veterans, two KATUSA’s, an MIA relative, a KIA family member and the Prime Minister of South Korea.

Q. What surprised you most about making this film?

A. There is nothing more powerful than listening to what these veterans went through. It was heroic, but it left scars that will last forever. Each had a singularly unique experience – even though it was very much communal. In every case, the interviews would start slowly, almost like they didn’t want to revisit that place or time. But in each case they opened up. And while they each had a horrific story to tell, they each talked about their fellow soldiers. There was a sense of extreme pride that they held together and they held their position. I’m sure it changed each of them to have gone through that experience. And it surely strengthened them as men. And to see them reunite annually is magical.

Q. What is the most moving thing about this movie?

A. There is no end to the battles these veterans fought, or the things they saw. All of us too frequently take the Korean War in particular, and the men who fought it, for granted. It’s difficult to sit and watch these grown men recall their exploits, and to relive what was obviously such a terrifying period. But we owe them a huge debt of gratitude. The entire nation of Korea owes them thanks, and to a great extent, the rest of the world. This was the start of the Cold War, and when the rest of the world saw the US and its allies stand up to Communist aggression, it made a statement. Their dedication saved a lot of lives and many believe altered the course of history.

Q. Where did this movie take you?

A. Shooting this movie has taken our crew throughout the US, meeting with veterans in locations as disparate as Oregon, California, Tennessee, North Carolina, Alabama, Nevada, Phoenix and Texas. It’s also taken us on several occasions to Korea and also on two separate trips to China. That may be the most harrowing part of my filmmaking career. Shooting former CCF combatants in secret locations and hurrying that film out of the country? Its not something the Chinese government would have allowed.

Q. What was the most difficult part of making this film?

A.  On the first visit to China, we were denied the opportunity to interview Korean War veterans unless the Chinese government could approve the questions we asked, and had approval of the final edit. The only way we could get the interviews we wanted was to return to Beijing as “tourists” and interview those veterans willing to speak. Those interviews have proved to be some of the most compelling moments in the film.

Q. What are your plans for distribution?

A. The documentary is being shopped to both broadcast and cable outlets. Private showing are planned for Memorial Day 2010 at The Kennedy Center, and at the annual OP Harry Survivors Association in San Diego in June. Other screenings will be held for veterans groups at Ft. Stewart, home of the 3

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GLENN PALMEDO-SMITH – thirty-five year Rancho Santa Fe, California, resident. Born in Washington DC in 1952, Glenn is the son of New York natives -- Consuelo Palmedo-Smith -- an early practitioner and instructor of yoga in 1960’s Bay Area and -- Edward N. Smith – Bureau Chief US Department of Labor and Statistics, jazz enthusiast and closeted socialist. Raised in Mountain View, California, Glenn received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Telecommunications & Film from SDSU.

He financed his education performing as a magician during winter and summer breaks in Lake Tahoe Night Clubs and Casinos, billed as, The Not-So Great, Great Glendini! After graduation, he established New West Antique Malls growing to three retail locations, while cheaply funding empty lettuce trucks returning from the East Coast filled with multi-paint coated and discarded oak furniture, that he would strip and stain and sell at 500% markup.

With profits from dozens of truckloads, he later enjoyed considerable success in the burgeoning San Diego real estate market under the banner of "Costa Linda Development", named after his high school sweetheart and current wife, Linda Costa. Building and marketing multi-million dollar estates to a variety of wealthy clients, and constructing large apartment complexes for his retirement, he accumulated much success -- until the California real estate bust of 1990, losing everything.

Licking his wounds in 1994, he completed his first book, Discovering Ellis Ruley, Crown Publishing. A true story about Ellis Ruley, the son of a runaway slave, who, as an artist, married a white woman in 1932. The couple settled in the bucolic backwoods of upstate Connecticut. The artist was eventually discovered murdered in 1959, as was his son-in-law found earlier, upside down in the family well. Palmedo-Smith unearthed evidence of possible KKK involvement and official cover-up. The FBI has since opened the case.

In addition, Palmedo-Smith organized a two and half year national exhibition of the artist’s work, sponsored by The Ford Motor Company. The exhibit, by the same name as the book, exhibited at The Museum of American Folk Art, The Wadsworth Athenaeum, San Diego Museum, Washington’s Corcoran Gallery and four other venues. Having Rosa Parks and Hilary Clinton as Co-Chairpersons of The Ellis Ruley National Committee of Honor, along with The Congressional Black Caucus as sponsors, are the result of Palmedo-Smith’s undying effort in promoting art.

Palmedo-Smith has been featured on CBS Sunday Morning, Tony Brown’s Journaland PBS Radio’s -All Things Considered, as well as in The New York Times, The Hartford Currant, The Washington Post and The San Francisco Examiner; among dozens of other newspapers and magazines. Locally, he’s frequently depicted in local print and on San Diego television stations promoting various projects.

After creating Dini Films International, he followed with The Hungry Woman, a 35mm feature film depicting a true-life murder mystery and involving a migrant camp in Southern California. Performed mostly in Spanish and based on the Rancho Santa Fe’s Ian Spiro Murder Case – the tale is told through the innocent eyes of the family’s Mexican maid, Evelia. Palmedo-Smith produced, wrote and directed the picture.

The film screened locally on both sides of the border for four weeks in 18 theaters in October ’08, earning considerable revenue and rave reviews. A deal was struck with a Florida distributor for 400 screens nationally, but funding fell through with the initial investor. Local car dealer, Bob Baker, saw the film in his local theater and contacted the filmmaker to discuss his next project.

Upcoming projects include:

Hold At All Costs – The Story of Forgotten Soldiers, in a Forgotten Battle, of a Forgotten War – A Documentary Film. Executive produced by Bob Baker, a Korean War Vet himself, shooting began June ’08. A retrospect of America’s first war post WWII, the film follows the lives of aging Korean War vets in the US, China, Greece and South Korea who all fought in a little known, but deadly eight-day skirmish called, The Battle of OP Harry. Parallels are drawn with today’s military conflicts and ultimate costs of war -- while providing powerful insight and hope for today’s veterans and citizenry. Directed & Produced by Glenn Palmedo-Smith. (To be aired nationally .

Discovering Ellis Ruley - A Documentary Film. Based on the book and exhibit of the same title, the film examines Ellis Ruley’s art, the eccentric East coast "outsider art" community and follows this man’s life of hardships and violent death. (Currently in post- production in LA and NY

The Last Minstrel - A Documentary Film. A true story. A bizarre light-hearted look at American entertainer, Clive Baldwin, who finds considerable success in England, emulating a blackened-up Al Jolson. Written and directed by Glenn Palmedo-Smith. (Currently in post production, England

The History of Blackface Minstrelsy - A Documentary Film. A three-part mini series on the history of Blackface Minstrelsy -- from TD Rice’s "Jim Crow" in the 1830’s to it’s subtle influences on popular American culture to this new millennium age.

Produced and directed by Glenn Palmedo-Smith. (Date to be determined) 

Castro City - Manny Valdez, PI. Peace/Love meets Greaser/Gangs in this pulp-fiction-like detective thriller. Initially, Valdez became a private dick to "put the hurt on the gringo", but currently, (1967), finds himself their benevolent servant -- until, that is, fate walks through his door with the case of a lifetime, a kidnapping of a wealthy Atherton girl. Written by Glenn Palmedo-Smith. Written, currently in final editing, due February ‘11)