Autotropolis, a new search engine for the auto elite, has launched it’s new, streamlined website for finding that perfect vehicle of your dreams. Geared towards the more high- end dealers, you start by choosing the specific model of your choice and entering in your zip code. Autrotropolis will formulate a list of nearby auto retailers tailored to your needs and listed by relevance (not necessarily by closest proximity) in your area.

After choosing a dealer from the site generated list, the merchant’s informational stats will pop up, along with a Google map of the surrounding location. As well as retrieving basic information like the address and phone number, Autrotropolis also displays added info such as:

* Employee number
* Employee range
* Services
* Year opened
* Square footage
* Sales volume
* Headquarters
* Metro area and closest cities served

Following the detailed specs, is a “Detailed Reviews” page which lists user reviews of each dealer. The site also showcases a user generated voting system which allows you to give the dealer either a thumbs up or a thumbs down, which in turn creates a number scale system on which to judge which dealerships offer the best product and service in the eyes of the consumer. The more votes a dealer has, the higher the rank they get within their locale. Autotropolis also lets users write specific reviews that are posted immediately without waiting for comment moderation (and also weeds out “spam” comments by requiring a minimum text to submit).

Autotropolis provides an impressive user generated search site, mainly because it focuses in on the product at large and relies heavily on user feedback to score and rank each dealer. Overall, the site resembles an automobile inspired Citysearch.com with a Digg.com voting system and overall easy to use site navigation. So, whether you’re in the market for a new Lexus or you just want to scout out local wheels, Autotropolis is the one stop information portal for those of us who deserve the best, but don’t have the time to do the research.

The PimpWiz.com Bottom Line: This has been a paid review. Yes, we are "hoeing" out our article space for money. We can not promise positive reviews but we will look at it if you pay us enough ;-)

Contact Info@pimpwiz.comif you would like your site review but our editorial staff.

A PimpWiz Exclusive Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: Cars, LaurenFairbanks

Scarlett Johansson was born in New York City on November 22nd, 1984 to Karstan Johansson (a Danish architect) and Melanie Sloan. The twenty-two year old actress is one of five children and has a twin brother who is also an actor. After enrolling in acting classes at age three, she quickly progressed on to theatre where she was soon discovered and at the age of eight, played opposite Ethan Hawke in the Off Broadway stage production of Sophistry.

Fast forward fourteen years later and she’s an internationally known figure- not only for her raw acting ability, but for her 50’s pin up model good looks. Recently starring in Lost in Translation and In Good Company, Johansson has been nominated for four Golden Globes and been named "Sexiest Woman Alive" by Esquire Magazine. She has appeared in numerous commercials and print covers, is a spokeswoman for Louis Vuitton, L'Oreal and Reebok and has a filmography that cites an impressive twenty-eight films (not to mention numerous television appearances) for such a relatively young actress. She has also taken on an adamant political stance, helping out with the John Kerry presidential campaign in 2004 and an anti-poverty campaign organized by Bono.

Scarlett, who like most child actresses, has been in the process of curbing the young, wholesome appearance that has followed her throughout her early films for the last few years by taking on more complex and adult roles and recently turned a few heads in 2006 with her highly controversial Vanity Fair cover in which she posed nude with Keira Knightly and Tom Ford. Stating that she likes to date older men and cannot see herself dating anyone under the age of thirty, she has been linked to many of Hollywood's elite including Josh Hartnett, Jared Leto and Benicio Del Toro. As for her opinion on relationships, Scarlett doesn't believe in monogamy because it's "not human nature to be with just one person" but "contrary to popular belief...[she is] not promiscuous" and tries hard to "make [her relationships] work in a monogamous way".

So, what's next for Scarlett? She has "The Nanny Diaries" coming out this year with three other films in pre-production and another two that were just announced. And if that isn't enough to keep her busy, she has also tapped into the music industry, recording an album of Tom Waits covers with a CD aptly titled "Scarlett Sings Tom Waits" which is slated to be dropped in the Spring of this year.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks, MinxoftheMonth

20 year old American Idol wannabe, Antonella Barba, has been making waves of news lately with racy pictures of her circulating around the internet. Her being photographed drinking underage are the least embarrassing considering the compromising nature of some of the photographs, which include her sitting on the toilet, giving a bj to some random dude and other numerous topless, wet t-shirt and half naked shots. Some viewers are complaining that Barba’s antics should be reason for expulsion from the show the same way Frenchie Davis from the show’s 2nd season was kicked off when pictures surfaced of her posing topless for a porn site. Executive producer, Nigel Lythgoe made the decision to allow Barba to continue on with the competition stating, he’s “not kicking the Jersey girl off, her fate is in the voters' hands". Also adding, 'We have really good background checks on everybody, and we deal with that every season,'' he says. ''It's sad, isn't it, that your best friends are the ones that come forward with information that will go to Smoking Gun or put your photographs on the web?'' Simon Cowell agreed, remarking “The photos should not affect her standing on the show, and if the public wants to keep her in, they’ll keep her in.”

Unfortunately for her though, the pictures are far from being through. According to an unknown source there is also a nude calendar that she made for an ex-boyfriend that is on its way to claim even more internet fame. Even with all of the negative press and being nicknamed “Bl*wj*b Barba”, Antonella seems to be handling the news with her head held high. And despite her less than stellar singing reviews, one has to wonder how badly this press will actually hurt her American Idol status. Besides almost positively boosting the show’s ratings, she’ll more than likely get a few side offers – if you know what we mean (wink wink).

A PimpWiz Exclusive By Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks, Music

If you ever wished that you could bring the chic comfort of a posh hotel home with you, then you’re in luck. The W Hotel Store, a luxury boutique offering the best of what the W Hotel has to offer, is having its famous Warehouse Sale this week with prices slated to be slashed down to 80% off. With four locations nationwide (two located in New York), you can finally bring the comfort of the W hotel right into your apartment.

Specializing in home goods such as furniture, bedding and even mattresses, the W Store also sell shoes, clothing, jewelry, books, CD’s, pet tents and a whole array of other miscellaneous treasures.

Directing their appeal to the young, trendy urbanites that the hotel normally targets, the W store is an extension of that chic and sophisticated, yet homey atmosphere that the hotel is so notably known for worldwide. With products ranging in the mid to high price level being that deeply discounted, this is one buy you definitely can’t go wrong with. Products are available online at www.whotelthestore.com and at their two Manhattan flagship stores.

* 1567 Broadway, 7th Floor
* 541 Lexington Avenue

A PimpWiz Exclusive

Labels: CribEssentials, LaurenFairbanks

B Lab Italia, a multicultural design laboratory located in Italy, is a primary manufacturer of alternative architectural and design materials worldwide. Their new line features an unconventional alternative to traditional flooring. The Modular Liquid Floor Tile is the newest innovative addition to the Living line, which also features a form of living glass and living table tops. The floor line, which is focused on creating a link to nature, is aimed to provide an atmosphere of fun and play. By applying pressure (or walking) on the tiles, it “creates play and movement of light stimulating sensations of nature and atmosphere”.

According to the company, “The Mono-chromatic tiles leaves a diminishing ray of colors tones the memory trace of a footprint behind. The Bi-chromatic tile stimulates play with colors and forms in continuous evolution. Walking on a living floor is stimulates memories of nature like walking a sandy beach or across a green pasture.” [sic] The tiles are also available in varying materials, such as the simulated metal flooring which has elements of floating metal and allows you to inscript messages into the floor tiles which slowly diminish after a few minutes. B Lab products are currently only available through their website and limited retailers in Italy.

A PimpWiz Exclusive

Labels: CribEssentials, LaurenFairbanks

We know this is right out a scene of Minority Report but here comes the onset of new advances in internet technology. With the influx of social networking sites like MySpace and others, one designer has taken the concept of social networking to extraordinary new heights. Yanko Design is a weblog consisting of a conglomerate of designers who showcase new developments in industrial design, architecture, technology and fashion. Hideaki Matsui, a technology designer has developed a new form of communication for the technologically advanced drifter. The information ring is an ultra-modern form of interaction. Designed to resemble an average silver band, the Information Ring stores a profile of the wearer, which is basically whatever information you want to relay to others.

When in close proximity to another wearer’s ring, the jewelry operates by transmitting the information from one ring to the other creating a sort of database of stored information. Matsui states, “The more people they meet, the more information they have”. Intended for people who frequently travel and keep semi-nomadic lifestyles, the Information Ring is like an electronic business card for the tech savvy traveler.

Another benefit of the Information Ring is that there is no hassle of providing a power supply with a battery or a plug. The ring has a heat sensor and is powered simply by the human temperature. While we encourage this new technology and the way it’s changing how we communicate with the world, we still wonder how one is going to be able to keep an air of anonymity in an open realm of communication.

Let’s say goodbye to hand shakes people, and hello to the head nod. It's a Brave New World.

A PimpWiz Exclusive

Labels: 007, LaurenFairbanks, Technology, Weird

"Can’t figure out what to give that alcoholic uncle of yours for Christmas this year? Here’s a gift that keeps on giving. Luxury Bar is an online spirit retailer specializing in premium liquors from around the globe who offers a gift giving experience that is “a true reflection of sophistication and style”.

Gifts are packaged and hand delivered to provide the utmost in quality and care. And nothing says “I’m a sophisticated alcoholic” like a signature gift-wrapped bottle of Johnny Walker for that special someone on your list. And to make it even more of a treat, Luxury Bar offers a signature Spirit of the Month club.

With bottles ranging anywhere from around $85 to $450 each per month, you can have a specialty spirit hand delivered to your loved one each month. They also offer a brief background on the chosen liquor and a corresponding recipe for those lightweights who need a mixer. So for about what you would spend on a diamond pendant necklace for that loved one, you could instead give them an entire year of warm, fuzzy memories. Possibly some they won’t even remember! Luxury Bar service includes spirit of your choice, delivery, gift message and gift-wrapping.

They are available at luxurybar.com or at 877-486-8686.


A PimpWiz Exclusive By: Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: CribEssentials, Gifts, LaurenFairbanks

Forget the weak ass Super Bowl party you were about to plan. Your buddies over at Sam’s Club(yeah...that's right Sam's Club) and Samsung have something a hell of a lot better. For a mere $71,000 (yes, that’s the correct number of zeros) you can own a brand new 57” LCD HDTV and a little slice of heaven.

Not only does this hi definition journey let you watch all the games that lead up to THE GAME on a 57” wide screen LCD screen, but it also takes you right up to the fifty yard line for the Superbowl and a whole lot more.

The Pro Football Championship XLI Package is the brain child of Sam’s Club and Samsung and offers the best of both worlds in sports and entertainment.
The package starts off with a kick ass home theatre system including a 57” LCD HDTV, Blue Ray DVD player, DVD camcorder, 1,000 watt home theatre model and a Digimax Pro 8MP 15x digital camera to capture all of the excitement of the playoffs. And with the hi-def and surround sound, it’s basically one step away from being at the actual game anyway.

The next round of goodies includes four round-trip, first class airline tickets to Miami, deluxe four night accommodations, VIP transportation and four lower level premium tickets to the Championship game. It also includes a few other treats, namely:

∑ Four passes to the Official Tailgate Event

∑ A choice between two spots in the Championship’s Game Gold Showcase or personalized spa packages

∑ Front Row VIP tickets to the Samsung Play of the Year Awards

∑ Access to Dan Marino’s VIP party at Nikki Beach as his guests

∑ Four signed Hall of Fame Jerseys from Dan Marino

∑ Four $750 travel vouchers

And if that’s not the enough for all you rich sports enthusiasts, we’re sure the women swarming all over your premium tickets and newfound friendship with Dan Marino won’t hurt either. It’s simple. You provide the cash and they’ll provide the rest.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Shout out to PointsWizard.com for the tip.

Labels: LaurenFairbanks, Sports

We all know how important it is to verify your high end lifestyle by flaunting your monetary assets and extravagant materialistic objects, but it’s the small luxuries in life that really say you’ve made it. And nothing says I live a life of luxury like a handmade German watch and sterling silver champagne set to match- your car that is. And now you can own just that thanks to Maybach, the German luxury car manufacturer. The two are made to compliment the Maybach model of your choice– the watch matching the car’s interior and the champagne set which is designed to fit seamlessly in the back for the passenger’s enjoyment. So, for approximately 500K you can arrive in style, on time and fully at ease.

The watch, which features a tourbillon, 40 hour power reserve and a 14 karat rose gold encasement, also has personalization options like monogramming, adding a diamond setting into the dial and case deviation in platinum or white gold. These watches are available for around $153,000 and like all other Maybach products, are rare and in limited supply.

The sterling silver champagne set was created exclusively for use in Maybach cars by German manufacturers Robbe and Berking. The set includes an ice bucket, two tumblers and two champagne flutes all executed in .925 sterling silver and is only available through Maybach for exclusive use in their automobiles. So, for that elitism that you so crave, Maybach is the one to make it happen.


A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

Aston Martin, the British luxury car design company, has announced that the new 007 agent will be driving the signature brand in the upcoming James Bond movie.

The car, which was designed specifically for the role, has not released any specifics on the new model, but Aston Martin design director Mareck Reichman states, “this car encapsulates a link between our elegant DB9 road car and the powerful DBR9 race car. It signals an evolutionary development of Aston Martin’s world renowned style and elegance… The DBS is not of understated elegance of a DB9, nor the youthful agility of the V8 Vantage.

It is explosive power in a black tie and has its own unique character which will equal that of James Bond.” Aston Martin has been providing the style icon’s sports car since 1948. And although details on the new DBS are planned to be released after the movie’s premiere, rumors are that the DBS will feature a more advanced 6.0L V12 putting out more than 500 horsepower and a semi-automatic transmission.

It will also, more than likely, weigh less due to a carbon fiber frame making it lighter and quicker than it’s predecessor the DB9. The company is rumored to be releasing only three hundred of the soon-to-be sought after production models (re-named the DBRS9) priced at somewhere around the 250K mark. The production models are believed to be released in late 2007, although no definite dates have been set.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: 007, LaurenFairbanks, Wheels

Still looking for that Christmas gift for the friend who has everything?
Well, look no further. The Moss Company has a ton of unique gifts, but none as much so as the Gun Lamp. The Gun Lamp is sure to light up anyone’s face (no pun intended) when opened on Christmas morning. And it’s a sure bet that no one else will have it.

We most of you might not believe that that anyone would actually pay seven hundred dollars for something that looks like it was stolen right out of Graceland, but then again, to each his own. Manufactured in Italy, the gun lamp has been in the works since the spring of 2005, and now is finally out on the market for consumers.

A few highlights:
∑ Gold-plated die-cast aluminum alloy
∑ Cast from actual guns
∑ Laminate paper and plastic shade
∑ Dimmer
∑ 16” high/ 8” diameter

Wow. Stylish and tasteful all at the same time. What more could you ask for? Available through the Moss Company website.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

The VIP Auto Fashion Show, a prestigious event that showcases the world’s finest luxury automobiles competing for various awards, is being held in Los Angeles on Saturday, November 18th. The event, that will take place at the LA Convention Center, will spotlight these magnificent cars and more importantly, the hot young models who are there to show them off. And who will also be battling for the title of Miss HIN VIP.

The show is put on by Hot Import Nights and on top of the competition and runway show, will also feature designer’s booths marketing the latest new products in automotive technology and style. A few of the cars in the lineup: the Miura Corse Lamborghini, the WALD Mercedes S550, the 2006 Mercedes CLS, and the GMG SCCA Pro Racing Speed World Challenge 996WCGT3 driven by James Sofronas. The fashion show will feature up and coming designers and will be viewable by exclusive lounges sponsored by Bentley and our boys at The Karma Foundation.

The Karma Foundation Lounge will feature the following automobiles courtesy of its Members; Saleen S7, Spyker C8 Spyder, Ferrari F50, Mosler MT900, TVR Tuscan, Bugatti, Mercedes Gullwing, Mercedes Brabus sV12 & more. Karma will also be conducting a casting for ladies to appear in future event covers. Karma will be benefiting the Marconi Children’s Foundation.

Other giveaways include a spa and hotel package from the Los Angeles Athletic Club. This event is sure to be talked about, but if you can’t make it there are other upcoming events sponsored by The Karma Foundation. General admission for the car show ranges from nineteen dollars to seventy-five dollars. To inquire about VIP lounge tickets, email Mike@visionevent.com.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: KarmaFoundation, LaurenFairbanks

The “fragrance for fragrance connoisseurs” is finally available now at Neiman Marcus retailers. The new scent is for Lalique’s new Tom Ford Fragrance Collections, and with a selling price of $135, you can smell appealing and not go broke. The first release of the signature collection for Tom Ford, Black Orchard is a deep, sensual fragrance combining the scents of black truffle and ylang mixed with light florals and a touch of lotus wood and vanilla tears. To those of you who have no idea what that means, it’s a bold and sensual scent with subtle airy undertones.

According to Luxury Launches, the fragrance “with its rich dark accords and alluring potion of black orchids and spice is pure and eternal.” Not only is the scent amazing, but Tom Ford makes it even more worth your money in the luxurious encasing. Black Orchid comes delivered in a pure black glass crystal bottle exclusively designed for the Tom Ford Collection (a collector’s piece signed and numbered by Lalique complete with certificate of authenticity). The fragrance is kept separately in a 0.5-ounce glass vial and comes with a gold funnel for emptying it into the crystal bottle, all nicely wrapped up in a swanky, black velvet bag.

According to Tom Ford, “For the last decade, I think we’ve launched fragrances which, like everything, have become so stripped-down, so transparent in terms of color and often in terms of scent. The often become quite watered-down…everything is tested and retested, and while you might end up with a lot of fragrances which smell good, it’s not fragrance development in the old-fashioned sense. I really wanted to create old-fashioned, but in a new sense.” And that’s exactly what he’s done. The Tom Ford Collection is available now at Neiman Marcus stores and will be available with the rest of his line at his Madison Avenue boutique in April of 2007.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

As the season starts back up again, fans of The Sopranos will have even more to look forward to as the holiday season approaches. Seven Studios and THQ are coming together to release one of the most anticipated games this season, The Sopranos: Road to Respect. The video will follow up on the success of the HBO series with an almost too real gaming version of the show.

Playing the role of Joey LaRocca, the illegitimate son of Big Pussy, you must start at the bottom of the food chain and work your way up, making money from collections, protecting your turf and building admiration from your family members in order to show your loyalty to Tony Soprano and move up within the ranks of the organization. Elizabeth Dahm, the game’s producer says “the idea was to create a truly Sopranos experience – combining favorite characters, distinctive locations and visceral, modern day mob violence in an engaging, interactive world.” And it looks like they did a hell of a good job with that.

While proving yourself to the rest of the family through interactions with other mobsters, the game offers many ways to combat the opponents of the mob war. You are able to interact and move up through “intense verbal interactions” as well as by the extremely violent moves the series is well known for. Some of the combat features are punishing specialty combat moves (like breaking an arm), improvised weapons, location specific intimidation, performance and cosmetic damage (black eyes, bruises) and dynamic verbal intimidation. The game is also voiced by the original cast and features a compelling storyline by creator, David Chase. Dahm explains “Everything about this game is rooted squarely in the Sopranos universe. We built our environments to set the stage for visceral, modern day mob violence and players will find themselves in combat in locations such as a casino, porn studio, a chop shop and many others. The game play focuses on weapons of convenience and moments of visceral, over-the-top violence, where Joey has to use whatever he can lay his hands on to make his point – whether it is whacking an opponent’s head into a urinal, beating him down with a mop, shooting him execution-style or all of the above.” Say goodbye to all those cheesy video games of the past. Who needs guns and knives when you have meat slicers and baseball bats? Although maybe a bit too realistic for some people, Road to Respect promises an intriguing story line with lots of violent crime sprees and good ole' family values. Road to Respect is slated to be released this holiday season.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

Just when you thought we couldn’t possibly get any more lazy than we are now, Gorenje Group, an innovative UK furniture manufacturer, brings you the latest in table top technology. The Smart Table is a two in one table that features a circular platform that raises above the table to store wine, deserts and any refrigerated dish that needs to be kept cold until dinner time. Gorenje is known for their innovative designs which include the Pininfarina range, stylish wine stores and even a sparkling fridge freezer decorated with Swarovski crystals. But, they may have reached new heights with the Smart Table.

According to the company, The Smart Table is more than just a whimsical vision of the future for Gorenje – it’s actually a major part of the company’s proactive development of new technology and functionality to keep up with and even pre-empt changing homes and changing lifestyles. Head of the Gorenje Design Center, Janez Smerdelj says, “Our primary concern here at Gorenje, and the basis of all our market research, is consumer satisfaction, and how the end user’s needs and wishes in the living quarters of the household are changing with time. Our research shows us that the traditional refrigerator is being used more and more for pre-prepared foods, drinks and condiments. Building it into the dining table, where it’s contents are easily accessible for all makes sense practically and socially.” It is also built using customer-specified materials and can be purchased in wood, stone or glass.

Visually, the Smart Table resembles something out of a Jetson’s episode with the circular refrigerator rising up out of the center of the table with the push of a button. It’s metal and glass frame resemble ultra modern, minimalistic decorating trends and it’s general versatility makes it a top choice for the technologically savvy buyer. The Smart Table will be available in European outlets the Summer of 2007 with no word yet on the pricing.


A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

According to Wikipedia:
"Harry Winston's jewelry empire began with his acquisition of Arabella Huntington's famed jewelry collection. Wife of railroad magnate Henry Huntington, Arabella amassed one of the world's most prestigious collections of jewelry, largely from Parisian jewelers such as Cartier.

When Harry Winston purchased the collection after her death, the designs of the collection were quite old fashioned. Harry Winston redesigned the jewelry into more contemporary styles and showcased his unique skill at jewelry crafting. "

Harry Winston, a key name in designer jewels, is opening an exclusive new salon in London and to celebrate the occasion, the luxury designer has come out with a stunning new time piece. The Harry Winston Company has issued a new addition to the ultra luxurious Ocean Collection. The Westminister Flying Tourbillon is more of a fine piece of artwork, than something to decorate your wrist.

The new watch combines the fine technology of the tourbillon (a type of mechanical clock designed to defy the effects of gravity that interfere with the chronometer ) and the minute repeater which mimicks the chimes of the clock tower on the Palace of Westministser. The watch is a limited collection of eight done in 18 karat rose gold and as well as another version done in a gem-set.

Besides the luxury encasing, the main draw to these timeless pieces is the superior craftsmanship put into workings of the clock. The Westminister Flying Toubillon features sapphire glass, a 70 hour power reserve, thirty-four rubies, manual winding, a 44mm diameter, black alligator strap, a flying tourbillon, and a repeater with four cathedral gongs set to the exact specifications of the Westminister clock tower.

The movement is also visible through the front and the back crystal glass and has 21,600 vibrations per hour. Although exorbitantly priced, these classics are sure to go quick. This limited edition is available only at Harry Winston salons.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

The Annual St. Jude’s Runway for Life, an event to raise money for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases, will take place today in Beverly Hills with an extravagant showcase featuring celebrities, fashion, Broadway dance and an auction. Previous auction items have included jewelry, travel packages, autographed sports memorabilia and high-end fashion items. But this year, a private donator who wishes to remain anonymous has donated a rare 2003 Ferrari Enzo to be auctioned off for the star-studded event. The bright red sports car is one of only 400 cars in the world. It also comes complete with black interior, books, tools custom luggage and an opening bid of 875,000. It will be auctioned off by Andrea Fiuczynski, the president of Christie’s Los Angeles and is the second time an Enzo has been up for auction.

Coined one of the most famous performance cars in history, this is a dream for any sports car aficionado or collector. Not only sought after for it’s sleek design, this baby features a 650 hp 12-cylinder engine, carbon ceramic brakes, scissor doors, carbon fiber body, steering wheel mounted controls and a mere 1,300 miles. It also has the ability to go from 0 – 60 mph in 3.3 seconds, making it one of the fastest street legal cars in the world. Considering it’s also been housed and maintained at a Ferrari workshop, we’re guessing it’s in tip top shape.

Last year’s event raised in excess of 300,000 for St. Jude’s Cancer Research and is expected to top two million with this year’s auction roster. Being the 4th year this even has taken place, Runway for Life has raised over 3.25 million to date and is growing exponentially each year. This year’s event will take place at the Beverly Hilton International Ballroom and considering it’s success in the past and the fact that this monster is up for bid it’s sure to be a tremendous success.

For tickets or more information on the auction, you can contact 310-996-1188 or email rani@pop.net

StJude.org


A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

YouTube, the country’s leading video-sharing site, is a portal for individuals who want an outlet to express their thoughts and views. But opening up your life to the rest of the world may not be what some expected from their newfound YouTube fame. Especially for the young 16-20 year old crowd that the site seems to regularly attract. YouTube has gained popularity over the last few years and has projected an almost monopoly over the rest of the online video sharing industry. According to Joshua Gamson, contemporary author, “YouTube is less artificial. I think there is a really strong sense that much of American celebrity culture is PR generated. That creates a market for so-called real people. People enjoy cutting through the nonsense.” And YouTube has grabbed the market with both hands.

Following the blogging trend, video blogging is becoming extremely popular and acquiring a good fan base can increase your popularity quite quickly to the point of making you a sort of Z-list internet celebrity. But along with every kind of celebrity status, there comes a downside. For just as many fans as you have, you’ll have that many or more people who don’t rock the good intentions. And YouTube video stars are beginning to find that out the hard way.

One such teen, Emmalina, an 18 year old who had a weekly video blog, has deleted her content from YouTube claiming she feared for her safety after her computer was hacked and personal files and information were dislayed on the internet. She said in a farewell letter on YouTube forum, YouTubetalk “Every day I logged in and discovered more and more cruel spoofs, harassing videos, death and rape threats, incredibly nasty comments and God knows what else. I can’t take it anymore. YouTube’s ‘popularity’ is hell unless you’re a f---ing saint with nothing to hide or you have indestructible confidence.” As more and more people transition into video outlets, the hacking and the stalking is bound to increase. “People forget that I’m a real, normal young girl with a life, feelings and a right to privacy” Emmelina also said in her online forum. However, some people believe that it’s something you have to deal with if you choose to publicize your private life for viewers to see. And we’re not talking thousands. YouTube gets on average 19 million visitors per month. Celebrity agent, Mark Markson warned “the openness of the internet represented a double edged sword for those seeking noriety. If you put yourself out there on YouTube or MySpace you are moving into open area and giving your privacy away. If all of a sudden fame comes upon you, all of the negatives as well as the positives come with it.”

YouTube can be a great way to express yourself, promote yourself or even jumpstart a career. But like all things fameworthy, there’s a price to pay. And for some hardcore YouTubers, the negatives are outweighing the positives.

Here are some our favorite videos via Youtube for your viewing pleasure:

Noah takes a photo of himself everyday for 6 years.

Psycho complains to city about "rogue helicopter pilot"

Breakin' - Turbo Broom Scene

One-Handed 3x3x3 Rubik's Cube solve (20.09 seconds solve)

Stevie Ray Vaughan - Testify - MTV Unplugged 1990
YouTube's Most Viewed (All Time)

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

Piracy, the act of robbery committed at sea, has been around since the 1700’s, but only in the past two decades has it been making a steady comeback. Bimini, a small island off the coast of Florida and measuring 700 feet in length, was and still is a hotbed for smugglers and pirates. According to Jeff Pearlman of The Wave Magazine, pirates can be classified into three categories:

1) Fisherman who work by day and pirate ships by night for their catch and loot

2) The Professionals who take over the ship, loot the cargo, but don’t kill the crew.

3) Organized Crimers who take the ship and cargo, kill the crew, take the boat to port and re-register and sell the ship for profit.

Today piracy is a growing problem with a worldwide loss of approximately 16 billion dollars per year, and Bimini is once again becoming a prime location for this activity. In the past thirteen years, pirate attacks worldwide have tripled due to the increased demand for international shipping. Increased patrol of US waters and the Caribbean by the United States Coast Guard is helping to eradicate piracy in the nearby waters, but the growing number of smugglers and their small-scale tactics are making it a difficult feat to overcome.

Modern day pirates also have a surplus of newer, more destructive weapons at their disposal. According to Wikipedia, pirates today “…use a great deal of technology. It has been reported that the crimes of piracy have involved the use of mobile phones, modern speedboats, AK-47s, shotguns, pistols, mounted machine guns and even rocket propelled grenades. There is also speculation that modern pirates eavesdrop on satellite communication networks such as Inmarsat to determine cargo and the degree of risk involved with an operation.”

While some pirating is done for the ships and to gain cargo, Bimini’s main attraction for pirates is to gain access to smaller speed boats in order to smuggle illegal substances into the U.S. Being that Bimini is only 50 miles from the Florida coast, it makes for an invaluable spot for smugglers to use as a stopping point. And it’s been that way for centuries. Bimini was a hotspot for legends such as Captain Henry Morgan and Blackbeard who used the island to store loot and as a capture point for looting merchant ships. Today Bimini is a large tourist spot boasting top fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling and an active nightlife. However; the large uninhabited areas on the island provide a perfect place to hide cargo and other loot with little disturbance.

Piracy may seem to be something of the past, but it is a proving to be a thriving business at sea. Bimini may seem like a local, touristy, sleepy Caribbean island, but with its close proximity and obvious convenience, it will continue to be a hotbed for modern day piracy, looting and drug smuggling.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

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“Watch Them…Wonder at them…Learn from them…” or so they say at Ocelot Productions. Called the ideal present for those who have everything, the Book of Cool encompasses way more than just a few cool tricks. This book accomplishes something.

Whether it’s showing you how to pull off a fancy pool shot or how to bust out a sweet break dancing move, the Book of Cool offers not only instructional guidance, but a glimmer of hope into the not so cool’s dreary world.

The brainchild of two British filmmakers, Fred and Clive Rees, the Book of Cool takes you on a journey all over the world with 35 of the most talented athletes, dancers and other random types that will teach you all you need to know about being cool and provides step-by-step instructions to make sure you get it right. The book is in reality a set of three DVD’s providing nine straight hours of mind-bending tricks followed by instructional how-to’s and a 320 page picture booklet breaking down all of the steps. Along with showcasing some of the most amazing tricks performed by the world’s top-notch street artists, the Book of Cool also provides impressive filming and photography. “Besides being cool—it’s also a simple and elegant example of video instruction.”

Voted one of the Top 10 Gifts of 2005 on the Today’s Show and winning three Webby Awards along with numerous other awards at various expos around the world, the Book of Cool is promised to be “the best gift you’ll ever get”. The producers of the Book of Cool state “the core of the product is to make publicly available especially captured film footage of the world’s ‘coolest’ exponents of sports and skills in action and divulging the ‘secrets’ of some of their phenomenal moves.”

And even though some said the instructionals weren’t the greatest, practice DOES make perfect – at least that’s what Fred Rees believes. “People always ask me what they can learn the fastest and how many cool things they will know after watching it, but that really isn’t how it works. You still have to spend time learning it. The point is to have fun messing around and doing things that other people may consider pointless.” Well stated Fred! And for forty bucks, what do you have to lose?

So, if you’re in the market for a kick-ass gift-giving idea without breaking the bank – or breaking a sweat for that matter – then here you go.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

Mario Lavandeira, master of the well-known celebrity gossip blog PerezHilton.com, has had an insane influx of fans over the past two years. Currently he serves close to 6,000,000 page views a week. Just to give you an idea, at 1 million page views a month agencies start to take you seriously. But being just another celebrity gossip blogger hasn't stopped him from taking over the game and making some nice pocket change in the meantime. Despite his elementary-style writing tactics, rudimentary grammar skills and lost attempts at being funny, Lavandeira has made a name for himself in not only the blogging world but has acheived the "Hey, isnt that the guy from ...." status.

Twenty-eight-year-old Mario Lavandeira is living what he calls the American Dream. His almost two-year-old blog site, which he started as a side gig to working as a freelance writer, has grown so much that it's become his full-time job. "I love what I do and I have every incentive to work hard because I love it and I work for myself and furthering the Perez brand. I really respect it and I treat it like gold. At first, when I would go to events and introduce myself as Perez Hilton, I thought it was kind of lame, that I should just say I'm Mario. But now I'm like oh, fuck it. Perez created opportunity for me. There's nothing to be ashamed or embaressed of, and people like Perez. Some people hate him too, but who cares?" According to Lavandeira, he wakes up at 5am to post new content for East Coast fans and responds to every email - sometimes thousands - then stays out at the clubs until around twelve or one... doing research, we're sure. Or maybe he's just kissing ass to get that next story. Whatever it is, he's parlaying the sh*t out it. And since he's already worked a reality-show deal into the making, which is coming out in 2007, we really interested to see what he pulls off next.

However, quite a few fans are starting to grow sick of the new type of journalism (his words, not ours) he's bringing onto the site. After securing his Z-list fame and getting invites to Hollywood parties and premiers, he's not so much posting gossip for the masses as he is gloating over his newfound fame. The pictures of Brangelina sunbathing on the beach are now gone, only to be replaced by screeching images of Mario's horse-shaped face and gleaming eyes behind Paris Hilton at the latest LA bash. "What's not to love? Everyone should treat themselves as a celebrity." And, while he definitely takes his own advice there, he still works hard for what he wants. "I get stories because people know that I will never lie, or make things up, or pay for information. I apply a journalistic standard to my work." I guess the old adage "Work hard, Play hard" still applies.

Working from the LA coffee shop that he calls his office, Mario Lavandeira updates his site, does numerous interviews for radio, tv and internet, chats with his agent and works out the details of his upcoming TV show. And even though he might be fame hungry, and have a complete disregard for the English language, we still got to respect his hustle. Only a a hustler can turn a tiny little website with blurry pictures and cheesy captions into the top celebrity gossip website on the Internet and simultaneously become a Z-lister himself.

Currently as we go to press, he works with the company BlogAds(A network of influential bloggers who collaborate to promote and sell blog advertising). Through Blogads, he has 24 ads at $202 a week less 30% commission. That's $13,574.40 a month profit and this is only a small portion of his profits. Not bad for a dude working out a coffe shop ;-)

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

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Roustam Tariko, the six foot three, forty-four year old Russian was just named one of the world’s richest bachelors by FORBES magazine. Coming in at #410, Tariko’s net worth of 1.9 billion isn’t so shabby. He exclaims in his broken English, “I just like people – many, many people. I want to do something for people. This drives me.”

A self-made billionaire, Roustam began his career in sales, working in the hospitality industry and then moving to the major Russian chocolate manufacturer, Ferrero Rocher. He then began selling Italian Vermouth where he won an exclusive contract with Martini Rossi and thus established Roust, Inc, the company that is responsible for importing liquor and other spirits in Russia. He is also responsible for creating Russia’s high-end vodka, Russia Standard. Growing up in a strict Communist household (his mother was a Communist Party official), he did not drink until going to school in Moscow, and now he seems to be making up for lost time.

Not one to miss out on a good time, Roustam is quite the party animal. He is also one of Russia’s most eligible bachelors and with a bank account like his, I’m sure there are more than enough women lined up ready to spend it. Tariko is also known for throwing elaborate parties and for his extravagant lifestyle. He is the first Russian to have owned a Maybach and a Mercedes SLR McLaren.

His latest bash was a one thousand invite party at the base of the Statue of Liberty. Guests feasted on elaborate courses of Russian cuisine and of course chilled Imperia vodka. “We drink, we drink, we drink!”, claimed the Russian playboy as he prepared for the extravaganza to introduce the vodka to American consumers. “So important. I knew my party must be with Statue of Liberty. Symbol of a better life.” “Guests will sit on big black velvet pillows decorated with gold crests, like Romanoff.” In true Russian spirit, he rambles unashamed about his wealth and extravagance. “I go where I want, when I want. I live, in Moscow, in best residential area. I have a house in Sardinia… I never do anything I do not like.” Well, lucky for him, he’s got the bank digits to back it up. And if that’s not enough, he’s the four hundred and tenth’s richest man on the planet.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

There’s a reason it’s called THEhotel. The Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas learned the old age lesson, "If you build it they will come". Unlike the majority of hotels and luxury accommodations in Vegas, the average suite in THEhotel is 750 square feet. And let’s not forget attention to detail. It may have sleek interiors, modern furniture and elegant architecture, but it’s main draw to the clientele that shell out upwards of $600 a night(Summer rates as usually $169 a night) is the extensive list of amenities that the resort offers.

Residents can enjoy the

* The Casino
* The 300 seat Race and Sports book
* Numerous five star restaurants
* Live music
* Broadway plays
* The forty million dollar shark reef aquarium
* Pool
* Health club
* Bathhouse Spa
* Wedding chapel
* Salon
* And a 24 hour concierge to cater to any other whims you might have

A typical suite in THEhotel consists of bedroom and living room bathed in modern white, black and brown décor. A 42” plasma tv graces the living room and can also be found in the bedroom and private bath. There is another half bath for guests and a private bar. They also come equipped with high speed Internet and a fax/copier/printer for easy work access

Another big attraction that the young, beautiful and rich like to indulge in is the nightlife scene at THEhotel. It boasts the “Mix Lounge” which features floor to ceiling windows and breathtaking views of the Vegas Strip. And if that’s not enough for you, there’s also the Rumjungle Nightclub, Ivan Kane’s Forty Deuce, Foundation Room and the Late Night House of Blues. And if the nightlife scene really isn’t for you, there’s always the 1.6 million gallon wave pool with sand-and-surf beach, lazy river or the topless pool. That’s right. The topless pool. Forget luxury, we’re talking pure utopia.

THEhotel at Mandalay Bay is pretty much just a few shops short of being considered a city in itself. So if you like luxury and modern convenience mixed with entertainment and of course – topless people –this is the only choice.

4 out of 5 stars from PimpWiz.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks

Seventh Heaven star, Jessica Biel is causing a lot of press frenzy. Recently named one of the sexiest women in the world by Esquire magazine, Jessica is bringing a lot of attention to herself. And not for some B-rate Hollywood scandal either. She’s using her national status to help out a young, Denver high school student that was involved in a tragic accident on prom night two months ago.

Molly Bloom, an 18 year old at East High School was run over by a Hummer stretch limousine on her prom night and was seriously injured, losing her left leg and part of her pelvis. She is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Denver Children’s Hospital. Hoping to help raise funds for her medical expenses, friends and family decided to hold a silent auction, termed “Mollypalooza”. Biel, who heard about the event through her family in Colorado, is helping out in her own way by “submitting a very special auction item as my contribution to the evening”.

Although Biel will not be able to attend the event herself, she stated in an audio message on www.dosomethingthatmatters.com “I sincerely hope you can attend to help Molly and her family as they deal with the challenges ahead”. The date will be scheduled for next month after Biel completes shooting for her upcoming movie, Next. She’ll be in Denver to receive an award for her humanitarian work. Not only does the winner receive a date, but they also have all inclusive bragging rights AND all donations are tax deductible.

Mollypalooza Info: Tickets can be purchased for $10 and will feature local bands and a silent auction in addition to “the date”. The event will be held on Tuesday, July 18th and starts at 7p.m. It will be held at the Rock Island Café, 1614 15th St. in Denver. For more information, contact 313-572-7625.

A PimpWiz Exclusive By, Lauren Fairbanks

Labels: LaurenFairbanks