A Hollywood Style Red Carpet affair was held on May 8 at the Port Theater in Corona del Mar. Over 150 guests attended the “Stars of Tomorrow” event where Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts students were honored. A total of five films were screened that were awarded scholarships from the Women of Chapman Student Endowment Fund. Dodge College senior film students have used these grants to complete their films for the past 12 years.
Guests were treated to a VIP reception complete with a Marilyn Monroe “lookalike”, photographers, and Dean Stephen Galloway interviewing the lucky endowed Student Filmmakers.
Dodge College is considered one of the fastest-rising film schools in the world and in the key rankings to be #4 in the country (in both The Wrap and The Hollywood Reporter).
The film students have use of three full-size soundstages, and a state-of-the-art virtual studio. Dean Galloway provides “Master Classes” for the students made up of top writers, actors, directors, producers, publicists, cinematographers and newsmakers.
The Women of Chapman held the 38th annual Christmas at the Ritz on December 14, 2024 at the Balboa Bay Resort. According to all who attended (including me…) it was one of the BEST EVER! From the beautiful decor, Hans Prager inspired menu, Live and Silent Auctions, and stellar crowd it was seriously one of the best events of 2024. Our fabulous Chair, Kristi Jacob, did an incredible job this year. Kudos to her CAR committee, and the outstanding jobs magically performed by WOC Liaison Erin Peltier, President Lisa Hallaian, Adrienne Brandes (hello live auction items!) Kristin Martin, Mona Nesseth, Donna Bunce, Sue Hook, and the lovely ladies behind the scenes and on the stage: Holli Winterhalter, Susie Tuttle, and Robin Follman. WOO HOO what a great event!
Special thanks to our sponsors of the Opportunity Prizes and auction items that were generously donated by top OC boutiques, jewelers, and vendors, including South Coast Plaza, Lugano Diamonds (thanks Bill and Sue), Adrienne Brandes (Aspen, gourmet dinners, concerts), Mona Nesseth (NYC jewelry venture), and many more. Our live auction Mistress of Ceremonies, Dawn Marie, was amazing and the fund-a-grant raised extra money. Did I mention that Janet Curci won the 50 bottle wine tree?
Check out these photos by Tony Lattimore, the best celebrity photographer!
CAR CommitteeChair Kristi JacobRobin Pullman and Holli WinterhalterBBR Chef Prabeen, Kristin MartinRobin Pullman, Holli WinterhalterLeslie Canellieri, Adrienne Brandes, Janet CurciKristi Jacob and Kristin MartinKristin Martin and DawnMarie President Lisa HallaianMatt Barlow and Kristi JacobThe Pounder FamilyShelly AngelDawnMarie KotsonisBrooks and LarsMary MurfeyJulie Ann Ulchikas, Shannon ArgyrosPhyllis, Pam SelberJuelene won !Donna Bunce, Janet CurciGreat to see Janine, Sarah & Carol LeeKathryn Thyen, Aaron TrentMikey, Dean Galloway, Kathy and Noel Greg and Donna HoodAva, Kristi, LuciaBill Peters Lugano DiamondsHolli and Daniel WinterhalterWylie AtkinTammi Cluck and daughtersDonna DiBari, Adrienne Brandes, Kathy HamiltonBryan and Jacqui PennerPresident of Chapman University Daniele Struppa and his daughter
I had several things that I wanted to accomplish at this phenomenal event. I have to say that SEMA this year far exceeded my expectations and I feel that I have a new appreciation for all of the businesses and individuals who make up the collective products, exhibitor brands and booths. My goals included meeting Jay Leno (of course…) checking in as media/press with Juan Torres – who actually remembered me and gave me a hug! I wanted to tour all of the convention center buildings via THE LOOP underground Tesla track and to get a load of all of the cars, trucks, new products and outdoor crazy races (what the heck…so much pink/blue smoke and fiery, scary, monster trucks…) I was honored to check out the Fifth Third Bank booth and attend their VIP COCKTAIL RECEPTION (https://www.53.com/content/fifth-third/en.html – shameless plug for my bankers.) Another incredible thrill was to meet BEAR GRYLLS, the survival expert. What a hunk ! My son Reed said that in one of his TV episodes he made a wetsuit out of a dead seal (yikes.) https://www.beargrylls.com Check out my photo with him.
On another note staying at the Westgate is always a thrill. I actually ran into BARRY MANILOW walking past me after his concert. Check out my Barry Manilow memories when my daughter Caroline played baby Avery on MURPHY BROWN (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOwD1Yg3FRg&t=17s)
Can’t wait for next year!
Cute girls signing autographsMerry xmas REED Love my Mercedes JacketBEAR GRYLLSThanks Bear for the photo opp!Like this would happen in the wilderness…Scott with Racing OpticsPerfect for cross country, NASCAR AND F1 drivers Big Time’s Zach and Jeremiah the YouTube StarsYes, I was a VIP Roland, Sally, Joy and Rich
I have attended the “Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) in the past, but this year’s convention has exceeded my expectations. First of all, being designated as “media press” is an honor and I have to thank my pal Juan Torres, head of PR, for keeping me posted each year on the very cool happenings at the show. Of course I get to come to Las Vegas and see my friends (including Mikey and Ray at the Edge Steakhouse) and pretend that I know a lot about CARS AND TRUCKS ! My grandsons would love every single one of these hot race cars and monster trucks! This year I got to meet my favorite comedian JAY LENO – he is a huge car fan. I have to give a big shout out to FIFTH THIRD BANK (5/3) because my husband and sister both work for the Cincinnati, Ohio based bank, and they have an Automotive Aftermarket & Motorsports Commercial Banking booth (phew!). Jeff Korzenik, Chief Economist for 5/3, gave a great talk that I attended. Here are some of my favorite pics so far…
Jay Leno !Love this jacket Jeff Korzenik and David Morton
LAS VEGAS (Nov. 6, 2024) — The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) announced the Top 40 builders in the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish competition. Battle of the Builders is the aftermarket industry’s ultimate vehicle competition, and the program is celebrating 11 years of providing SEMA Show builders a platform to showcase their craftsmanship and skills to a worldwide audience.
The 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish Top 40 are (by category):
HOT ROD/HOT ROD TRUCK
Noah Alexander — 1968 Dodger Charger Chris Clark — 1932 Ford Roadster Tony Arme — 1959 Chrysler 300E Bobby Schumacher — 1934 Ford Custom Pickup Paul VanNus — 1987 Buick Grand National Tyler Nelson — 1951 Henry J Sedan Alan Johnson — 1957 Pontiac Star Chief Safari Wagon Bobby Schumacher — 1971 Chevy Camaro Clifford Mattis — 1957 Chevy Bel Air Kevin Zwygart — 1967 Chevy Nova
SPORT COMPACT/IMPORT PERFORMANCE
Bruce Yarnell — 1965 Aston Martin DB5 Brian C Dilley — 1973 Ferrari Dino Kenny Pfitzer — 1956 Porsche Speedster David Price — 2005 McLaren SLR HDK John Sarkisyan — 1963 Mercedes Benz Pagoda Hoover Chan — 1972 Nissan 240Z Shawn Bassett — 1976 Toyota Celica John Sarkisyan — 2006 Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren Hikaru Tagushi — 1995 BMW E36 M3 Rey Rivera — 1991 BMW 8 Series
OFF-ROAD
Rob Lindsay — 1949 Willys Pickup Jacob Moore — 1962 Dodge Power Wagon Chris Stafford — 1957 Chevy 3100 Cody Dabney — 1979 International Scout II Ross Logsdon — 1971 Chevy K5 Blazer Vini Madrigal — 1969 Ford Bronco Todd Adams — 1962 GMC Carryall Jason Reeves — 1983 Toyota Land Cruiser Thomas Kincer — 1977 Ford Bronco Stewart Gibbs — 2016 Toyota Tacoma
The 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish Top 12 will be announced in the Battle of the Builders Stage, in the Silver Lot, on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at 3:00 p.m.
About SEMA and the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org, 909/396-0289.
I have been to this show in the past and it is truly one of the coolest, state of the art, trade shows that regularly comes to Vegas. The show is “the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry.” See you there (if I can swing it during this crazy election week…). Kathy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 08, 2024For media inquiries, contact:Juan Torres 909-978-6722 | juant@sema.org
SEMA Show FutureTech Studio Returns With Expanded Focus On Cutting-Edge Vehicle Propulsion Technology— Second year showcases more innovations in emerging automotive technologies —— Registration deadline extended to Oct. 9 —DIAMOND BAR, Calif. (Oct. 8, 2024) — Following a successful debut, the SEMA FutureTech Studio is back for its second consecutive year at the 2024 SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Offering attendees a deep dive into the future of vehicle propulsion and automotive technology, the FutureTech Studio will again provide a platform for innovators, tech enthusiasts, and automotive industry leaders to explore cutting-edge advancements driving the future of the automotive sector. This immersive experience showcases the innovative advancements that are shaping the future of mobility. “The automotive aftermarket is a driving force behind cutting-edge technology, and the FutureTech Studio’s return underscores our industry’s pivotal role in pioneering new propulsion systems and fuel solutions,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “This dynamic space is dedicated to encouraging fresh ideas and groundbreaking innovation across all types of vehicles, setting the stage for the future of automotive advancements.” Building on the success of last year, the FutureTech Studio will feature the latest parts, tools, and equipment tailored to emerging vehicle technologies. The exhibit area will also highlight a variety of cutting-edge vehicles that incorporate these advancements, demonstrating real-world applications. A key feature of the Studio will be FutureTech LIVE, a dedicated stage for SEMA Education sessions where industry leaders will discuss propulsion technologies, including electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids, hydrogen-powered vehicles, alternative fuels, and other innovations transforming the industry. This year, the growing area will be located in Central Hall and feature an impressive 38 displays from more than 25 exhibitors. The displays will showcase a combination of components and tools for new propulsion technologies, as well as 25 unique vehicles that exemplify the future of automotive innovation. In addition, the EV & Future Propulsion section and its surrounding area will feature more than 20 independent exhibit booths showcasing a combination of vehicle and standalone displays. 2024 Highlights:ADAS and Autonomy: Access to exclusive SEMA Garage ADAS and autonomy data, based on real-time testing of five different vehicles, offering insights into how vehicle modifications can impact emerging automotive technologies.Interactive Sessions: Expert-led discussions on the evolution of automotive connectivity, vehicle electrification, and sustainability in design.Cutting Edge Technologies: Innovations and technologies from established and start-up companies, including Chevron, Yamaha, Toyota, Bisimoto, Hoonigan, Legacy EV, and more.Networking: Unique opportunities for attendees, media, and other exhibitors to connect and collaborate on tomorrow’s technological breakthroughs.”The FutureTech Studio offers a comprehensive view of the evolving automotive landscape and demonstrates how aftermarket professionals are spearheading the development of innovative parts, tools, and services,” said Luis Morales, SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology. “Our focus on EV, propulsion technologies, ADAS, and autonomy reflects SEMA’s commitment to driving the industry forward and embracing the latest advancements.” The 2024 SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the premier gathering for the global automotive aftermarket industry. The event offers unmatched opportunities to explore the latest products and trends, connect with industry leaders, and network with fellow professionals. Registration Deadline ExtendedRegistration is $60 for qualified attendees — the deadline to save on SEMA Show registration has been extended to Wednesday, Oct. 9. The price goes up to $120 on Oct. 10. To learn more about the 2024 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.semashow.com. About SEMA and the SEMA ShowThe SEMA Show is a trade show produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a nonprofit trade association founded in 1963. Since the first SEMA Show debuted in 1967, the annual event has served as the leading venue bringing together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry. Products featured at the SEMA Show include those that enhance the styling, functionality, comfort, convenience and safety of cars and trucks. Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org, 909/396-0289. ###Caption: The SEMA FutureTech Studio will return to the 2024 SEMA Show to provide attendees an immersive experience showcasing the innovative advancements that are shaping the future of automotive mobility.Photo: FutureTech 1 & FutureTech 2
I actually got my husband Noel to attend this cool event. Now that is a feat in itself since he is so BUSY and always thinks that I attend “chick events” on a daily and nightly basis (come on we have been married for almost 40 years and he still puts up with me…) Anyway, what a fun event with everyone who is anyone in the OC attending. I think there were about 300 future patrons wandering around drinking first class champagne, wine, cocktails, and INCREDIBLE appetizers by chef Jessica Roy. She was seen “torching” the shrimp right as it was served, seriously she was following the trays – she is a genius in my opinion – can’t wait to go to lunch again at her restaurant and have some of her BUTTERMILK CHIVE GRUYERE BISCUITS ! Make reservations at http://www.608dahlia.com
Here is some information on the wonderful sponsors of this event (from Mona Nesseth):
HI Kathy, Thank you Kathy for joining us on Thursday for the “Secrets of the Gardens, Revealed.”You are so sweet to give me much of the credit, but it was a group effort that included Kim Smith – Ilya Serov Entertainment, Donna Di Bari – Sparkling and White Wine and the Botanical Mimosa Skirt, Angela Cortright recruited Nolet Spirits / Ketel One & underwrote the bartenders and I underwrote Blake Barrios and Rebellium Wine, the Canpagne Mimosas in a can, the Hula Girls Shave Ice, the Cutie Pies by the Flaky Apple Pie Co.and the 49 bottles of fine wine prizes featured in the Wheel of Wine. Cheers,Mona
FROM THE SHERMAN GARDENS BLOG:
The event “Grow the Gardens” at the Sherman Library & Gardens, made possible by the generosity of Mona Nesseth, was a truly enriching experience for all attendees. The gathering, held on May 16, 2024, provided valuable insights into the future plans for this prominent location in Corona Del Mar. It was an opportunity for participants to delve into upcoming developments and gain a deeper understanding of the vision for this historic site.
Mona Nesseth’s benevolent contribution ensured that individuals were able to partake in this enlightening occasion, fostering a sense of community and shared enthusiasm for the preservation and growth of the gardens. The event not only showcased the plans for the site but also united individuals who are passionate about supporting and contributing to its future success.
If you would like to further support the Sherman Library & Gardens or learn more about the event, including opportunities to donate, please visit their website for additional information. Your contribution can make a meaningful difference in the realization of this vision for the future of this cherished location.
In the meantime I took some photos of our friends enjoying the awesome wines and appetizers from chef Jessica. The wine, spirits and entertainment donors were Mona Nesseth, Donna DiBari, Kim Smith and Angela Cortwright.
Kim SmithrfRombauer wines were served thanks Donna Dibari !performer Ilya SerovJim and Julie Ann UlcickasCatherine Thyen and Mary RooseveltLisa Hallaian and Dana KannePam Selber and Kathy HamiltonRenee West, Kathy Hamilton, Donna DiBari, Kim Smith, Mikey Lares
We attended the Revel Republic’s second annual Newport Beach International Boat Show – why you ask?
We LIVE IN NEWPORT BEACH and why would we travel to San Diego or Florida to see a Tiara when we can take a shuttle or WALK, God Forbid…
We own a boat that costs us a fortune in slip fees, maintenance, DIESEL, and we need to “keep up with the Joneses” to make sure our hulls are super clean. On our last trip from Catalina Island we limped into the harbor with no throttle…
All of our “yachting buddies” are going (FOMO!) They even bragged about attending all of the VIP parties that we obviously weren’t invited to…
Who knows? Maybe we will find our DREAM BOAT (we did but it cost over $1 million – what a bummer!)
I would like to shout out to: EMBARK MAGAZINE (Natalie McCollum’s first edition – BEAUTIFUL), BOATBOT (www.BoatBot.ai) Maryann & David Johndrow – you have to check out their APP, it will help all of us boaters…, LUKE BROWN YACHTS WEST Trish Burns from San Diego who was so nice, SUN COUNTRY MARINE GROUP’s Ryan Landaal, who has our dream boat for sale (brand new Riviera 395)…the yummy MALIBU FARM restaurant and their servers, NOMADIX – very cool tiny towels, blankets, etc. and the FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES LOS CABOS AT COSTA PALMAS with the very handsome crew of our Jim Glidewell’s SERENGETI YACHT (we got to attend the exclusive party…)
Although not officially press/media for this event it was a blast! We cruised the crazy, busy strip in Las Vegas from Wednesday November 15 to Saturday November 18. We ate at fabulous restaurants (Golden Steer, Peppermill, Edge Steakhouse and Gordon Ramsay’s Pub.). I played the Buffalo slot machines (oops and a few others…) and believe it or not mostly WON! I loved the whole racing scene at all of the casinos and ended up buying way too much merch…the easy way to navigate the race was via the MONORAIL. I took the monorail both days to view the race. We also had an amazing view of the MSG Sphere from our friend’s condo in Turnberry. It is the world’s largest spherical structure (366 feet tall and 516 feet wide.)You have to see it to believe it. It has 1.2 million LED lights that constantly change to produce ads and awe inspiring images. Here are some photos. By the way with the race late at night it was hard to stay awake that long!
My favorite Lewis HamiltonGreat Decorations from SallyThe Watch PartyA Red Bull Car at The MirageThe Sphere changed every few minutes.Ferrari champagne with the racetrack on it – so cool! At Gordon Ramsey’s Pub CeasarsBest pub chicken Sandwich thanks Gordon Ramsay!In search of Gordon Ramsay New Mercedes JacketOn my way to the raceNoel and I at RESORTS WORLD
We are off to the Races – Yes, the Formula One big race in Las Vegas is this November 15-18, 2023. Of course we had to prep by watching “Drive to Survive” on Netflix and I even watched “Gran Turismo” to see how that kid who played video games all day long actually became a race car driver…
I applied for a media/press pass and chose FERRARI because I have always loved red Ferrari’s (my boyfriend Bill’s dad had one back in 1980…) however I may have to switch over to LEWIS HAMILTON AND MERCEDES because Ferrari had too many press applications. Oh well, either way I AM SO EXCITED TO GET BACK TO VEGAS! Our group will just have to cruise the strip, the Westgate, the Stirling Club, etc. and try not to lose too much cash on BUFFALO (my favorite slot machine…)
Caption: The SEMA FutureTech Studio will return to the 2024 SEMA Show to provide attendees an immersive experience showcasing the innovative advancements that are shaping the future of automotive mobility.Photo: 
kathyhamiltonblog 