True Beauty

From the hot terrain of the Somali desert, to the haute runways of London, Paris, Milan and New York, comes the heroic true-life story of model Waris Dirie, whose inner strength, survival and courage far exceeds her physical beauty.

“Desert Flower,” which premiered at Cinequest 21 at the California Theater in downtown San Jose, is an adaption of the autobiography of Waris, a well-known supermodel, who, at a young age, courageously left her nomadic clan in Gallcaio, Somalia, to escape all its barbaric, ancient traditions.

Waris Dirie

Although discovered for her natural and exotic beauty while working at a McDonald’s restaurant in London, Waris’ story far exceeds the typical rags-to-riches story that most of us are used to. As a young girl, Waris faced the utmost injustice that plagues over 8,000 young girls every day in Africa; that of female genital mutilation. At the age of three, her mother took her to an elder who cut away her “uncleanliness.” In her culture’s tradition, only a girl who had undergone clitoral circumcision was deemed worthy to marry. If she was not circumcised, she would be considered unclean and her virtue would be equated to that of a whore.

Upon surviving one monstrous ordeal as a child, as a teenager, Waris took it upon herself to escape another dismal, fore-coming future; being married off to an older man in her village whose age was comparable to that of a grandfather. However, upon her brave journey through the rough terrain of her native land in search of salvation, she was also rapped en route while making her way to finding her grandmother in the city.

Liya Kebede and Waris Dirie

Yet all these horrendous occurrences did not deter Waris from pursuing a better life. With the help of her grandmother, Waris was able to travel to London, where, while initially homeless, alone in a new land and not knowing the language, managed to befriend an eccentric retail clerk, who, at first, thought Waris was going to shoplift a yellow summer-dress she was admiring. Eventually, that same clerk became Waris’ first true friend in this strange, new land.  She also was her ally, and helped her start her new life in London.

Worthy of mention is the actress who portrayed Waris in the film. Liya Kebede, a famous model herself, gave an emotional and touching performance while demonstrating Waris’ vulnerability, innocence, and inner as well as outer beauty. Liya was Waris incarnate, as she could not be more perfect for this challenging yet inspiring role. And, her striking resemblance to the model also granted her the luxury of playing the role as authentically as possible, down to the naturally curly, short hair they both wear.

A True Diva

Upon the ending of the film, Cathleen Miller, an associate professor in the MFA program at San Jose State University, and co-writer of Waris’ autobiography, answered questions from a moved audience about what Waris is like and what she is currently doing. Miller explained that, although Waris was portrayed as quiet, demure, and naïve in the film, in reality, she is “a true diva.” She shared with the audience the story of the first time Waris came to live with her in her home in Lewistown, Pennsylvania–a quiet place where they were to begin work on the book. As Miller explained, when she and her husband went to pick Waris up from the train station, she was nowhere in sight. Then, all of a sudden, the conductor of the train had Waris by the collar and was forcing her off. The reason, as Miller continued to explain, was that Waris had lost her jacket somewhere on the train, so she was holding up an intercontinental train until she found it. Quite diva-like, indeed.

Author, Cathleen Miller

Another story Miller shared with the audience was the story of what happened when they reached her home after picking Waris up from the train station. As Miller explained, she and her husband live near a 300-acre corn patch with open fields and the horizon visible in the distance. Waris, now living in the city-jungle of Manhattan, missed the open terrain of her country. As a child, she was used to living in the bush where she had the freedom to roam and watch both the sunrise and the sunset. So when she saw this open space upon exiting the pick-up truck, she told Miller, “Mama, I just have to run.” So she took off running as if she was a cheetah that was once held captive in a cage but was now free. Of course she soon returned to Miller’s home, where together they wrote her emotional autobiography.

Life of a Model

Through her life experience, and now as a world-renown supermodel, Waris’ position grants her the ability to reach greater audiences. By telling her story, she was invited to become a UN special ambassador, which gave her a platform where she was able to bring awareness to this primitive, barbaric, and previously unknown act; that of female genital mutilation. Waris also founded the Desert Flower Foundation in Vienna, Austria, whose mission is to raise awareness regarding female genital mutilation. Waris also started the Desert Dawn Foundation, which raises money for medical clinics and schools in her country.

A truly beautiful and remarkable film about the strength of the human spirit, “Desert Flower” is a film that will touch your soul and captivate your heart. A worthy film for all to see, “Desert Flower” will change your perspective of what it means to have real beauty, and how inner strength will always surpass outer beauty, no matter what the circumstances.

For more information about the film and about Waris Dirie, please visit:

http://www.desertflower-movie.com/

http://www.desertflowerfoundation.org/en/

Film Review by Sophia M. Papadopoulos

Persistent, determined and goal-driven: these are the three words that perfectly describe comedian, Steve Mazan, whose film “Dying to do Letterman” had its world premiere at Cinequest 21 on Friday, March 4, 2011, at the Camera 12 Theater in downtown San Jose.

As a kid growing up in Chicago, Steve never considered becoming a stand-up comedian. That is, not until his12-year-old self saw David Letterman on the Late Show in 1982. Ever since seeing Letterman perform his comedy routine, Steve had one dream and one dream only—to perform stand-up comedy on The David Letterman Show. However, as Steve would soon find out–upon starting his quest of fulfilling his dream–it would be no small feat to prevail over.

Comedian, Steve Mazan, his wife Denise, and the filmmakers, Joke and Biagio.

Not only did Steve have the challenge of winning over the executives and having them pick him to perform on the show over hundreds of aspiring comics, but when he began his journey to make his way to New York City and on the Late Show studio, Steve also received a life-threatening diagnosis–he discovered that he had liver cancer. For most, this news would make anyone give up on their future and on their dreams, but instead, this news made Steve more determined to live his dream or die trying.

As Steve anxiously waited to receive the news that would change his life forever, his attempts to realize his dream began to seem futile. Numerous attempts to get Late Show executives to recognize his comedic talent and to book him on the show were not promising. However, even when he finally received a letter from the show’s executive producer stating that it would be impossible for them to book him on the show, that made Steve more determined to hone in on his comedy, make it better, and rise up to the challenge of making the impossible become possible.

As Steve stated, “I wanted to be invited to perform on the show because of my comedic talent and not because I was living with cancer.” And he was going to prove his worth as a professional comedian one way or another.

Steve poses for a photo with his proud mother.

Needless to say, after much angst and persistence, his quest to live out his dream became reality. And in doing so, Steve has inspired others living with cancer and those without, to never give up on their dreams no matter how distant and impossible they may seem.

More than just a documentary about overcoming the challenges associated with having a horrible disease, “Dying to do Letterman” is a truly poignant and inspirational tale about pursuing one’s dreams no matter what the odds.

For more information about the film and about Steve, please visit:

http://www.dyingtodoletterman.com/

http://www.stevemazan.com/

http://www.cinequest.org/indexCQ.php

Film Review and Photos by Sophia M. Papadopoulos

Oh, what a night! Cinequest 21 film festival opening night, that is.  A bit of Hollywood was in the air as the red carpet was rolled out for moviegoers and movie-makers alike on this night of glitz, glamour and passsione. Held at the historic California Theater in downtown San Jose, Cinequest kicked off its 21st year of featuring unforgettable films, magnificent filmmakers and holding film forums that include local talent as well as cinematic brilliance from all over the world.

Prior to the film preview, actor, screenwriter and director John Turturro was inside the theater lobby answering questions posed by an eager press about his directorial debut of the film, “Passione.” As an accomplished and respected actor, it was obvious that everyone was excited about seeing his true passion unveiled on screen.

As movie patrons slowly but eagerly made their way into the theater, they were welcomed by the sounds of an organ player playing movie theme songs in old Hollywood form; a perfect soundtrack to the beginning of a majestic evening.

Preceding the film preview of “Passione,” Halfdan Hussey, director and co-founder of Cinequest, and Mayor of San Jose, Chuck Reed, welcomed guests to the first night of the 13-day long event. However, the reception did not end there. In the spirit of Silicon Valley and its forte for invention and innovation, Sean Maloney, executive vice president and co-general manager of Intel Corporation’s Intel Architecture Group (IAG), and Martin Cooper, former vice president of Motorola and the engineer who lead the team that developed the first handheld mobile phone in the 1970’s, also welcomed patrons to the city where technology and creativity reign as king.

Halfdan Hussey, director and co-founder of Cinequest

Chuck Reed, Mayor of San Jose, CA

Sean Maloney, executive vice president and co-general manager of Intel Corps. Intel Architecture Group

Martin Cooper, former vice president of Motorola

As the lights slowly dimmed and the curtain opened to reveal a movie screen, the audience clapped with enthusiasm as they prepared to take a trip to Italy via John Turturro’s vision of a musical adventure.

“Passione” was a unique film about the passionate love affair that the Neapolitans have with the heartfelt music their culture has created throughout the years. Just as natural as breathing is to the human race, so is the Neapolitans’ instinct to sing and dance when the moment hits them.

This film was unique in the sense that it was three films in one. First, a documentary-style picture depicting the passion and love that the people of Naples have for their culture and their music. Second, a historical piece about the influences of Italian singers and the development of their song style throughout the centuries. And third, a natural musical where the historic ruins of Naples and the surrounding terrain was the stage for all Neapolitans to sing Italian love songs and reveal stories of love and betrayal while at the same time dancing to their soul’s content.

In complimenting his eclectic cast, Turturro stated, “When people are that talented, they are their own special effects.” A statement that was quite evident as the spirit of the Neapolitans revealed itself through their music.

For anyone who has an affinity for rich culture accompanied by a deep passion for music that stirs the soul, “Passione” is a film that will surely make you feel like running out and singing in the streets. What an amazing feeling that would be!

Following the film, Turturro was welcomed on to the stage to receive the Maverick Spirit Award and to talk a bit more about his inspiration behind the making of his film. He enthusiastically explained how, as an Italian-American, he wanted to share a glimpse of his culture and “his world,” as he put it, with a greater audience. It was evident by the audience’s positive response, that they truly enjoyed and appreciated the film for its artistic ambiance and style.

After the film preview, patrons were welcomed to party the night away at Eulipia Restaurant and Bar and The Swinging Hookah in downtown San Jose.  There, they had the opportunity to discuss the film, meet John Turturro and take photos with him, and meet and mingle with fellow movie-lovers. A fun ending to an extraordinary evening.

Cinequest 21 opening night was a great start to an even greater two-week film odyssey.

For more information about the film festival or to purchase tickets, please visit:

http://www.cinequest.org/indexCQ.php

Event coverage and photos by Sophia M. Papadopoulos

Members of the press, filmmakers, and film aficionados alike mixed and mingled with who’s who of Silicon Valley while enjoying some tasty treats and refreshing drinks provided by local businesses.

Halfdan Hussey, Director and Co-Founder of Cinequest

Yoga Performance

Refreshments offered by Cinequest volunteers

Desserts by Jen's Cakes and Edible Arrangements

While in attendance, guests had exclusive access into what Cinequest 21 has in store this year. Halfdan Hussey, Director and Co-Founder of Cinequest, welcomed guests and offered insight into the events that will take place, the special guest celebrities that will attend and those who will receive the coveted Maverick Spirit Award, and the type of extraordinary films that will be presented at this year’s festival.

Comedian, Steve Mazan.

Cinequest publicist Brittany Welby discusses the festival's program guide

Comedian Steve Mazan, whose film “Dying to Do Letterman,” one of the feature films to debut at the festival, also welcomed guests and explained how excited he was to be in the Bay Area, and the opportunity to share his story about never giving up on his dream to do stand-up comedy on the David Letterman Show while at the same time battling and overcoming his bout with cancer.

Helium Magazine is excited to cover Cinequest 21. Please visit sjhelium.com throughout the month of March for coverage of the festival.

Film Festival runs March 1-13, 2011.

For more information about Cinequest and to purchase tickets or passes to the film festival, please visit: http://www.cinequest.org/indexCQ.php

Press Release by Sophia M. Papadopoulos

Thea Mediterranean

While taking a stroll to my first destination, Thea Mediterranean, for a special cocktail sampling and appetizers, the sounds of flamenco music played by Ray Soto permeated through the summer-like air. At each stop, laughing groups of friends, married couples, and young lovers were enjoying all the tasty treats each restaurant had to offer.

Some locations like Roux Louisiana Kitchen also offered entertainment. As guests sampled special wine and spirits, they were treated to live musical performances by the in-house band.

Village California Bistro

It was obvious that with each visit to a new eatery, patrons became happier and more enthused. This might have been accredited to the generous helpings of wine and spirits poured at each location. The opportunity to taste each restaurant’s featured appetizers was beneficial for the restaurants to advertise some of their delicacies. It was also a great way for patrons to sample foods that they normally may not have. And, if they liked what they tasted, they would surely have a reason to go back for more.

Sino

As the event was coming to a close, and after several helpings of refreshing cocktails and decadent hors d’ oeuvres, I made my way to my last stop—LB Steak. Although the previous restaurants I visited had sumptuous food offerings, in my opinion, LB Steak delivered, as they offered the best appetizers: a unique and clever snack creation of braised beef tator tots and fried mac and cheese balls. As others excitedly sampled these treats, it was clear that they would have agreed with my consensus.

Santana Stroll is a fun way to mix and mingle with friends, is perfect for a girls night out, and is an ideal first date excursion. Not only will you leave happier than when you arrived, but you will also experience all the finer things that Santana Row has to offer.

Make sure to visit santanarow.com for more information and tickets to next year’s Santana Stroll.

By Sophia M. Papadopoulos

He2: Are you excited for Treasure Island?

WS: Definitely.

He2: Who are you looking forward to seeing perform the most?

WS: That’s tough. I am excited to see Belle and Sebastian. I’ve never seen them play before and I’ve liked them for a long time.  I like a lot of the bands this year. I don’t know, it should be fun. I mean She & Him might be fun.

He2: Do you think you would be able to play together with Belle & Sebastian?

WS: Hopefully, I mean ya that would be cool.  Like you guys said, they hardly ever play out here so who knows.  It is weird when you play music for a long time you start to cross paths with everyone and then you’ll see them again and it’s weird. You know, you start out and you just like music and then you are actually having conversations with these people. It is weird to have that perspective on things, but I dunno. I kind of like not meeting artists to be honest.  I like not having any personality attached to it, so it is just their music and nothing else.

He2: How does it feel to be on the same level?

WS: We are not on the same level, people don’t know who we are.

He2: You’re on the same lineup though.

WS: I know, it’s weird.  This is definitely the biggest show we have ever played.  I think the capacity is like 12,000 people or something crazy.

He2: Are you nervous?

WS: Ya (he laughs)

He2: How was it when they told you they wanted you to perform?

WS: We were surprised.  We are probably the only band on the lineup that isn’t represented.  It was neat and I was surprised. We’re stoked.

He2: So you are playing on Sunday?

WS: Ya, we are the first band.  I think we play at noon. It is always weird to play that early in the day. We are actually playing on Saturday too.  They are doing a Treasure Island night show so we won’t be able to go on Saturday for the festival during the day. Rogue Wave is playing that night as well.

He2: Have you met any of the other bands?

WS: I know the singer of the band Paper Cuts. I have met him a couple of times. He is really nice and he actually used to live in San Jose too. Other than that, no.

He2: Have you ever been to Treasure Island?

WS: Ya, Treasure Island is a man made island. It is completely flat and it is odd. I mean I am sure it will be crazy packed with people on that day, but I have stopped on it on my way over the Bay Bridge and I guess it used to be a military area, but it is all pretty much gone. There are all of these weird barracks and stuff. It is a weird space. I like all of the islands in the Bay Area. I went up to Angel Island. It is a state park with no cars on it. You can take your bike out there on the ferry. It is really cool.

He2: How do you feel having grown up in San Jose influences your band? Did everyone in the band grow up in San Jose?

WS: Ya, we are all from San Jose. It’s hard to say. I feel that it definitely influenced us, but it is hard to say how. I feel that it is awkward I am eating falafel and talking about it (he laughs). It is really hard to say how your environment influences your music.

He2: Do you feel like you are representing San Jose?

WS: In a weird way. I mean people always want to know about San Jose. People are intrigued by San Jose. They either are like, “What? You’re from San Jose?”  or like, “Whoa! San Jose, what’s that place like?”. You know, it gets like one or two reactions

He2: Are you going to be playing in San Jose anytime soon?

WS: We played here twice this summer.  At the Blank club and Left Coast Live.  We are trying not to play too many live shows. We have been playing shows nonstop for five years and we are sort of tired.  So we are just trying to work on songs. We are trying to just only play when we travel because we have been playing around in the Bay Area nonstop for forever so we are sort of trying to not do that right now.

WS: People from Psycho Donuts came up on stage and started throwing donuts at the audience during the Left Coast Live show.

He2: How was that?

WS: It was alright until people started throwing them back onto the stage. We totally stopped and just started eating the donuts. We thought that they were part of the festival or something because they were just like, “Mind if we come up here and say something real quick?” and so we were like, “Okay.” We thought it was some type of professional related announcement and then they started talking about their donuts.  We were like what the hell is going on right now? They were giving out their donuts, starting a donut war.  We were rather baffled by the whole event. I guess I like people who are doing crazy things.

He2: What do you do besides The Mumlers?

WS: Well, I give guitar lessons to an eight year old girl. She is my one student, but she’s learning. And right now I am taking a class on print making at and art school in Oakland.  My girlfriend works at the art school so I get to take free classes.  I just started that today so that is why I am so tired.  At nine in the morning I had a six hour print making class.

He2: Do you like it so far?

WS: It was fun. It was really neat I haven’t done anything like that. I have never really taken art classes. It should be really cool I really like the process and the technology and everything. Hopefully I can handle it, I dunno. I am a night person. I go to sleep really late. I literally slept 2 hours last night.

He2: We love your album covers and fliers. Who does the artwork for them?

WS: The newest album Don’t Throw Me Away was done by this girl Mitsy, who is from San Jose. She is my favorite artist from San Jose. She is incredibly talented. I have never met her before. She is a recluse. She like doesn’t leave her house, but I saw her pictures, her drawings at a local art show and found out she knows Felix, one of the guys from the band.  So, we got in touch with her and talked her into doing it.  We talked to her on the phone a lot. The first album was done by this woman name Lori and she was friends with one guys who owns our record label and she is also a little reclusive as well.  She is a very talented artist.  She does very cool hand drawn animations. She is from out in the Central Valley.  I am a big fan of both of their works.

He2: We noticed that you like to use artwork instead of band photos. Why is that?

WS: Ya we have always hated band photos.  You know, there are all of these dudes trying to look cool. I mean you have to have band photos, but it has never been our thing.

He2: Are you guys close friends?

WS: Ya, I’ve known three of the guys since I was about 12 years old and we all grew up skateboarding and they happen to also be really talented at playing music, and one by one I roped them into helping me record songs.  We are down to five people now. Slowly the band keeps shrinking. We started out with seven. We had a tambourine player who, well everybody gets married, that is what happens. The tambourine player got married and she got a real job and then our bass player got married and got a real job. So we are just five unmarried people without real jobs that are still doing it. But ya, we are all real good friends.

He2: What would you say your genre of music is, it seems to vary?

WS: What do you think?

He2: We couldn’t pinpoint one genre.

WS: I guess we try not to sound like everything else, but we definitely like a lot of different types of music and we don’t try to fit into a category. We just pick what we like and then mash it all together.

He2: What top three genres would you say you integrate into your music?

WS: Well, soul music is really big for me. I love it and I think that really seeps into what we do a lot.  I like song writers. I like people that have really interesting lyrics, so I mean there are people like Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan influence me a lot. And then what else seeps in there? I guess you could say abstract? We are pretty nerdy. We like a lot of stuff.  I don’t know we could go on and on, but I don’t like to break it down.

He2: Do you write all of the songs?

WS: Ya I write them, but we arrange them together.  I just sort of come in with the words and the melody and they figure out what instruments they want to play.

He2: Are you in charge of the band’s Facebook Page?

WS: I don’t even have the code.  I am not even allowed on that Facebook page.  Felix is the dictator of that relm.  Felix is the crazy guy on stage.  You will know him in a second on stage. He is probably rolling around and wearing a Raiders poncho. But ya, he likes controlling the Facebook.  I get overwhelmed.  I answer all the emails and everything else pretty much, so heck I am happy I don’t have to touch that.

He2: Is there a new album in the works?

WS: Ya.  We don’t have any dates set or anything to record, but we have been piling up the songs.  Have you guys ever heard of the Black Heart Procession? The Black Heart Procession is one of my favorite bands and it was one of those weird situations where when I was a teenager I was really into them and now t hey are talking about us going on tour with them throughout the country.  We’ve been talking about going down to San Diego with them and doing some recording, but we haven’t really nailed down any dates with them. But, that might be our next project.  Some people don’t like them because they are kinda downer music, but I like them.  They make Bright Eyes look pretty happy.

He2: Is this your favorite place to eat in San Jose?

WS: It is definitely up there. I miss this place, banana shake and falafel.  This is my jam right here.

He2: Can you tell us about growing up in San Jose?

WS: I used to work at Camera, the movie theaters, a long time ago, I was a projectionist. I loved it. I got to see so many movies. I love movies. I mean, the only thing that sucked was it hardly paid, but being a projectionist was nice because I got to hide out in the projection room. I didn’t have to shovel popcorn or take tickets or anything like that.  Actually I got to do a lot of music while I was working because I would start all of the movies and then I wouldn’t have anything to do.  It’s been years since I’ve worked there.

He2: Can you recall a certain song that was written there?

WS: Ya, that Red River Hustle one on the first record was written in the projection room. Parts of a bunch of the first album were written there.

He2: How do you normally go about writing songs?

WS: Usually I will have a lot of ideas for songs.  I’ll write down the ideas and then I’ll come back and try to make them into something longer when I have the time.  I get stuff done when I have a lot of time to myself. I stay up all night to work on things.  It is actually really hard for me to write songs because I am always bothering people because I am loud and I get really self conscience. The last house I lived in in San Jose I lived with 10 other people and everybody could hear me anytime I did any music. A lot of times I get the most done when I go house sit for my mom. My mom lives in Oregon and that is when I will write a lot of stuff at once.

He2: Any other popular music that you are particularly liking right now?

WS: I like that band Beach House. I know they are doing really well right now.  Our good friends The Morning Benders as well. I like their stuff a lot. They were a tiny band, but they are getting bigger. I like that band Dr. Doll, they are good. I really honestly like mostly old music. What do you guys like?

He2: What is a normal band practice like for the Mumlers?

WS: We are pretty unorganized.  We actually need to practice this Sunday because just playing for fun is what we do all the time. We just get together and mess around. Most of the time we will just start playing some crazy techno song and then all of sudden, four hours later, we are still playing the same techno song.  I am just kidding.  Well, actually no not really, it sorta does turn into that.

He2: Do you see The Mumlers making it big time in the future?

WS: I would love to be making a living from it somehow.  It is not like I don’t take it seriously. When we record, we record well. But, I go in waves with that. I get really gung-ho sometimes and then I lose all hope (he laughs) and assume I will be broke forever. So I don’t know. Sometimes I feel really encouraged, sometimes I feel people are really response to it and we are doing well in terms of our realm of things, but other times I just feel like we are too non-pop, too non-everything else. I really don’t know.  I think all of us will always make music. Who knows if we will always make music together and what happens will happen.

As Will finished his falafel, he informed us that he was headed to play solo at a festival in Nevada City.  He had to go drop his sister’s dog off however, and drive up to Oakland before the show that night. For a busy guy, he didn’t seem to find squeezing in an interview to be an inconvenience. We like that. After we parted ways we ran into each other again at Mill Cottons, a sporting goods store minutes late. A strange coincidence, in which Will responded, “Do you know if they sell badminton birdies here?”

By: Jenn Elias and Calli Perez

Jewelry: A girl’s best friend

If you are like me and shiny things, especially shiny jewelry catch your attention, then the MsBellezza Jewelry Fashion Show was the place to be on Thursday, June 26, 2010. Held at the exclusive Capital Club in downtown San Jose, not only were the guests treated like celebrities, as their photo was taken on the red carpet leading into the show room, but the breathtaking views from the 17^th floor were just as dazzling as the jewelry itself. Guests were also treated to sumptuous hors d’oeuvres as they had an opportunity to peruse the jewelry on display before the show.

Catherine Potgieter, the founder of MsBellezza Jewelry, proudly started the show by professing gratitude to her guests and to those who have supported her and her business throughout the years. The show then promptly began with the models making their way down the runway, as perfect canvases for the glitzy earrings, stunning one-of-a-kind necklaces, glittery bracelets, and sparkling rings they were adorned with.

MsBellezza Jewelry is made using Swarvoski crystals, semiprecious stones, and delicate metal and beadwork.

After the fashion show, guests were invited to stay for a boutique shopping opportunity where they were encouraged to try on the jewelry pieces.

It was fascinating to watch some of the men in the crowd browsing through the collection, trying to decide which jewelry piece to surprise their wife or girlfriend with. The single ladies were just as excited to purchase a fun piece of jewelry for themselves. After all, jewelry is a girl’s best friend.

My two personal favorites were the blue and white rhinestone-studded diamond-shaped necklace, reminiscent of the blue diamond heart-shaped necklace featured in the movie “Titanic,” and the Hollywood-esque rhinestone with gold lining necklace that was more of an art piece than a neck ornament. (below)

Whether you are fond of necklaces, have a ring fetish, match your clothing to your earrings (instead of vice versa), or have a collection of bracelets, you are sure to find a unique, and did I mention shiny, piece of jewelry at MsBellezza Jewelry.

For more information on MsBellezza Jewelry, please visit: http://www.msbellezza.com/index.php/

Photos courtesy of Sophia M. Papadopoulos

Fashion Art Music Exhibition, F.A.M.E. brought a dynamic collaboration of live music, artists, and models to the Women’s Club in downtown San Jose last weekend.

The venue was filled with local venders and boutiques showing unique products and creations. From bow ties and cupcakes, the Women’s Club contained wall-to-wall street-inspired designs.

Live music included master mixes and beats from performers DJ ThuyVu,
DJ Quantum,
DJ Snare, and
TradeMark Krew.

Treatbot, a karaoke ice cream truck, made an appearance outside of the building, where gourmet ice cream was served to those who wanted a sweet break.

Outside of the building, sunshine and summer-like weather greeted painters and onlookers viewing the artist’s developing creations. Alongside the artists was another deejay playing as people of all ages went freestyle and break dancing.

Umbrella Salon was the official hair salon of the night, creating looks for the runway models and prize packages.

As the night neared the end, everyone’s attention veered to the F.A.M.E. finale as models walked the runway in new and recycled clothing by retailer Crossroads Trading Company from Blossom Hill.

Several beautiful models sported spring’s biggest trends of floral prints, stripes, cropped tops, overalls, oversized sun hats, and bright makeup.

F.A.M.E. S/S ‘10 not only shares this unique experience with the general public but also the opportunity to take home a piece of it.

DATE
Saturday, March 20, 2010

TIME
6:00PM to 10:00PM

LOCATION
San Jose Woman’s Club
75 South 11th Street
San Jose, CA 95112

ADMISSION
Tickets can be purchased at the door at the day of the show
General // $10
Pre-Sale // {Please sign-up for the mailing list}

$1 from each ticket sale will benefit the Lupus Foundation of America, Inc.

Check Bobbivie.com for updates and the list of OVER 40 ARTISTS AND DESIGNERS that will be exhibiting at the event!

Make sure you get their early. The Facebook Event already has a huge attending list.

“Where is Tina Fey when you need her?” actor Benjamin Bratt replied when asked how it felt to be a maverick. Referring to Fey’s impersonation of Sarah Palin, Bratt instantly hit it off with the sold-out audience in the California Theatre on Thursday, March 4th to conclude the Cinequest Movie Festival.

Bratt spoke after a special showing of La MISSION, a movie that earned him the Maverick Award for his character based on a true story of a San Francisco man, Che Rivera.

In the movie, Bratt delivers a noteworthy performance as a tough, “Machismo” character whose violent behavior disables him from finding a meaningful relationship with those closest to him.

Directed by brother Peter Bratt, La MISSION took place in the Mission district of San Francisco, where the Bratt brothers grew up.

You may recognize the Maverick Spirit Award winner from programs such as Law & Order, The Cleaner, and a favorite of mine, Miss Congeniality.

At 47, Benjamin Bratt is still lookin’ good! Event interviewer (and San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom’s wife) Jennifer Siebel Newsom couldn’t resist his charm.

Bratt accepts the 'Maverick Spirit Award'