Forgotten Hollywood

Manny P. here…

   I’ve been invited to attend the Latino Book & Family Festival in October. I’m so proud to represent my community on a panel discussion about Hollywood:  Past and Present. The Festival has promoted literacy in the Hispanic Community since 1997. The event will take place at Cal State University, Los Angeles (5151 State University Dr. at Greenlee Plaza). According to the mission statement on their webite:

   Edward James Olmos, actor and community activist, is Co-Producer of the Latino Book & Family Festival, a weekend event promoting literacy, culture, and education in a fun environment for the whole family. The festival is held in key Hispanic markets across the country.   

   The Latino Book & Family Festival was launched in 1997 in LA to promote literacy, culture, & education, and to provide people of all ages & backgrounds the opportunity to celebrate the entire diversity of multicultural communities in a festival atmosphere.                     EDWARD JAMES OLMOS

Today, the Festival is hosted in several major Latino markets across the U.S. including Houston, Dallas, Chicago and L.A. Future expansion plans will take the Festival to New York City, Miami, the San Francisco Bay Area and many other major Latino markets.

   Here is a link to their website:

http://lbff.us/los-angeles-2009

   More information about my personal involvement (exact day/time) to follow…

Until next time:                                “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   I monitor newswires (as part of my radio experience). Here’s one from the “You’re not gonna believe this” Department…

   The New York Society Library (one of the Big Apple’s oldest locations) found in its ledgers two missing books that were checked out by the Father of our Country. You guessed it… George Washington is delinquent on returning Law of Nations, and a volume of debates from Britain’s House of Commons. Needless to say, if he were alive today, Washington would owe a hefty fine, since the books were due back on November 2, 1789!! Actually the library isn’t concerned about the fines, but would love to have the books returned. By the way, John Jay, Aaron Burr, and Alexander Hamilton also checked out books from this historic location. (I wonder what their library cards are worth?)…

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   I’m pleased to announce the addition of a new library location for Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History…And it’s in President Barack Obama’s home state. The Mount Prospect Public Library is the latest home for my paperback. According to their website:

The Mount Prospect Public Library is a mid-size, independent public library, located in the Village of Mount Prospect, Illinois, located about 20 miles northwest of Chicago. Currently over 61,000 patrons are registered cardholders. The collection has approximately 497,000 items on file, with an annual circulation figure of over 1 million.

Until Next time>                               “never forget”

   I really had a pleasant time at Chevalier’s Books on Sunday. Not only did co-owner Sue Otto and her staff set up everything so nicely for my wife Laurie and me, but I was surprised by several visitors including my brother-in-law Mark Thomas, a long-time radio pal Mike Daniels, a listener-friend to KRLA (where I worked for 18 years) Cathy Burrola, and really long-time high school buddy Joe Finci. I really appreciate the effort made by these thoughtful folks!

(from l-r) Manny Pacheco, Sue Otto, Laurie Pacheco, Cathy Burrola, Mike Daniels at CHEVALIER’S

  The day was capped off by a patron to the bookstore, there to purchase a present for her cousin. She was British, and let me know she was a relative of Gerry Marsden, vocalist and former leader of the 1960’s pop group GERRY AND THE PACEMAKERS.

   Marsden currently still lives in Liverpool, and is an avid reader. In fact, he wrote and published his autobiography in 1993. Marsden recalls being signed by Beatles’ manager Brian Epstein, and recording their first 45’s at Abbey Road Studios

   I am thrilled Marsden’s cousin considered that Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History should belong in this popular singer’s personal library. From the lyrics of Ferry Cross The Mersey:

   And Here You’ll Stay…!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Dresses that Grace Kelly wore in screen classics such as High Society and Rear Window are now showcased at a museum in London as part of a new exhibit.  Grace Kelly: Style Icon at the Victoria and Albert Museum will display the wonderfully stylish wardrobe of the Oscar winning actress-turned-princess. Exhibits include the gown Kelly wore to accept her Academy Award in 1955, as well as, the outfit she draped to her first meeting with Prince Rainier III of Monaco (her future husband) later that year.

   The museum exhibition opened this past weekend, and highlights Kelly’s enduring appeal. The show will trace the timeline to include her style as Princess Grace of Monaco, with haute couture gowns by Dior, Givenchy, and Yves St Laurent.

   Kelly died in 1982 in a car crash. She was only 52. Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History salutes the iconic: Grace Kelly!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   The Larchmont Village area is a quaint neighborhood, just east of Hollywood, with outdoor patio restaurants, and eclectic places of business. This location also is home to one of the oldest independent bookstores in Los Angeles:  CHEVALIER’S BOOKS

   I’m quite pleased I’ll be spending Sunday afternoon at this treasured site, with it’s unique storefront and veteran staff. Of course, I’ll be autographing Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History from 1p-3p.

   They are located at 126 N. Larchmont. Filis Winthrop and Sue Otto own the shop, which is managed by Norman Dixon (a local actor when not in the store). Stop by CHEVALIER’S BOOKS this weekend. Make sure you say hi, and pick up a copy of my paperback. You’ll be greeted by a friendly staff waiting to meet you. Here is the link with all the information:

http://chevaliersbooks.blogspot.com/

   Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History will also get you in the mood for the upcoming Turner Classic Movie Film Festival the following weekend.

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   I’d also like to welcome the newest library to carry my book. It’s the Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Branch of the Zionsville Public Library; part of the Evergreen, Indiana consortium. According to their website:

  Evergreen is a growing network of public, school, and institutional libraries located throughout Indiana. As of April 2010, 62 member libraries serve over 643,485 Indiana residents.

 Until next time>                              “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Let me say… I had a great time at Costco / Burbank on Sunday. A woman who works at one of the movie studios in the area was kind enough to share that my book is getting into conversations among filmmakers in the industry. She then asked me to sign a copy of my work, which I gladly did. I also want to thank Gary Zive, a classmate and friend from Van Nuys High, for hanging out with my parents and me. We shared jovial fun all afternoon.

   I came home to find out that online sales at Tower Books.com are quite impressive! Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History is ranked #8 in the nation in their Social History category. It was selected as one of the showcase books on their website (see below):

Social History Bestsellers

[ The Ascent of Money (Paperback) ~ Niall Ferguson (Author) ]

[ The Ascent of Money: A Financial History of the World (Hardcover) ~ Niall Ferguson (Author) ]

[ Empires of the Word (Paperback) ~ Nicholas Ostler (Author) ]

[ Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History (Paperback) ~ Manny Pacheco (Author) ]

[ The Secret History of the World (Hardcover) ~ Mark Booth (Author) ]

   The paperback is also still doing well at Southern California Borders stores (#7 in Local Interest). To visit these websites, feel free to go to the Book Purchase Locations on the  Navigation Bar to the left and click on their links.

   The information at these sites speak for themselves!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   One of the last surviving Munchkins, Meinhardt Raabe, passed away on Friday. He was one of the little actors who actually had lines in The Wizard Of Oz. As coroner of Munchkinland, he was the character officially declaring the death of The Wicked Witch of the East. He tells Dorothy:

As coroner, I must aver I thoroughly examined her And she’s not only merely dead She’s really, most sincerely dead!

   Raabe later gained noteriety as he became a spokesperson for Oscar Meyer, as Little Oscar, World’s Smallest Chef. He traveled the countryside in the first Weinermobile for decades.

   Throughout his later life, he attended Wizard Of Oz conventions and celebrations that annually took place all over the country.  The Munchkin actors were honored in 2007 with a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Seven surviving actors attended the event including Raabe. In 2008, he was honored by the International Wizard of Oz Club with the L. Frank Baum Memorial Award. Raabe also published his autobiography entitled – Memories of a Munchkin: An Illustrated Walk Down the Yellow Brick Road.

   Meinhardt Raabe was living in a retirement community in Florida when he suffered a fatal heart attack. He was 94.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Sunday will to be a busy day in the life of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History. I plan on starting and ending my day discussing and selling the book!

   Of course, you can join me at COSTCO – Burbank from noon to 4pm for my book signing. Flash your membership card and come visit me at 1051 W. Burbank Blvd (just off the 5 Fwy). It’s a great chance to pick up my paperback if you live in or near the San Fernando Valley.

   I’ll be back on cable radio on Niteside With Gregg Hunter. I posted the link below, which airs on CRN #1 and CRN #6 at 9pm (PST) on CRN Digital Talk.

http://crntalk.com/

Here is what the website says about broadcast veteran Gregg Hunter:

Gregg Hunter has been on the Hollywood scene for many years and is remembered for his live weekly broadcasts from the original Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, CA. “Niteside” allows the “friendliest voice in radio” to speak with film greats on his weekly live show. He talks with the biggest celebrities in the world and previews their movies, TV shows and music. Sundays at 9pm.

   Join me at COSTCO – Burbank; and listen to Niteside with Gregg Hunter this Sunday. I think Monday is a day off…whew!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History is now available at HOLLYWOODLAND EXPERIENCE!! It’s a  souvenir store at 6904 Hollywood Blvd., across the street from Mann’s Chinese Theatre  (formerly Grauman’s), and close to the legendary El Capitan Theatre.

   This store is everything “Tinseltown”, right in the heart of tourist row, and area of the upcoming Turner Classic Movies Film Festival (later this month). Many thousands of folks flock to the site each week to feel the magic of our past and present that is Hollywood.

   Again, many thanks to Gary Lycan of the Orange County Register for helping me find this perfect locale. Back in December, he joined me in a jaunt. When we finally ventured to HOLLYWOODLAND EXPERIENCE, Gary commented “THIS is the place where my book belongs.” Great insight on his part… Just like a plot line from a classic motion picture; only it all really happened!

   The HOLLYWOODLAND EXPERIENCE drips with history, despite the fact this particular venue location just recently opened. My paperback has surely found a wonderful home!

   Until next time>                            “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   The Orange County Screenwriters Association has invited me to open prior to a specal afternoon with acclaimed screenwriter J. Michael Straczynski on Saturday, May 22nd for a discussion on “Hollywood – Past and Present.” The event is free to attend, and this is a must for aspiring writers of books and lovers of classic cinema. Joining me on stage (prior to Straczynski’s appearance) will be my friend, OC Register radio columnist Gary Lycan.

   Straczynski has written for film and television, and his credits include Changeling, which was directed by Clint Eastwood.  Angelina Jolie was nominated for an Oscar (Best Actress) in 2008 for her starring role in the film. The writer was nominated for a BAFTA for his work.

   Babylon 5 is the screenwriter’s most noted television production. The show has won several awards including two Emmys. He’s also written episodes for Murder, She Wrote, Jake and the Fatman, and Walker, Texas Ranger.

     J. Michael Straczynski

   His journalism credentials are well known nationally, with articles in People Magazine and The Los Angeles Times. Straczynski has also dabbled as a TV producer and playwright. In 2008, Daily Variety named Straczynski as one of the “Top 10 Screenwriters to Watch.” He currently has five films in production including Lensman for Academy Award-winning director Ron Howard.

   This event will be held at the Regency South Coast Village Theater, 1561 W. Sunflower Ave. in Santa Ana at 10am. The event will include a Q&A and booksigning. What a unique opportunity for me to begin the conversation prior to such a well-respected member of the Hollywood community!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   I will be back on the radio today at 4pm (PST)  on the CRN Digital Talk. It’s The PM Show, hosted by my good friend – Mike Horn. There are several choices on the website, so there will be plenty of opportunities for you to hear the program. Here is their schedule: (the link below)

CRN #1 – 4pm (live) / 8pm (recorded)

CRN #4 – 9pm (recorded)

http://crntalk.com/

   In addition to working in Southern California radio for four decades (including KRLA 11-10AM), Mike Horn is the President and CEO of the CRN Digital Talk. He’s also a member of the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters.

   I am thrilled to join Mike today on his weekday show to discuss Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History. The 9pm show will simulcast on KSPA 1510AM, Ontario, CA.

   Here is the link to Mike Horn’s blog site to see what he has written about today’s show…

http://hornpmshow.blogspot.com/2010/04/45-manny-pacheco.html

   Also, a big THANK YOU to Gary Lycan of the O.C. Register and Don Barrett of L.A. Radio.com for promoting my interview today. It’s much appreciated!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Have a joyous Easter with your friends and family. Please remember its holy meaning and yummy traditions. If you celebrate Passover, also enjoy your given holiday.

   If you’re looking for something to do after visiting your place of worship and your favorite restaurant… Keep in mind Border’s will be open till 7pm today! My book Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History is in most of the chain’s Southern California bookstores.

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   We had such an enjoyable time at Costco in March, I’ve been invited back to sign more books! Costco Burbank will be hosting the event on Sunday, April 11th from noon to 4pm. They are located at 1051 W. Burbank Blvd. (just off the 5 freeway).

   Of course, this compliments my visit to Chevaliers Bookstore at 126 N. Larchmont in Los Angeles (I believe my dad confirmed this as the Hancock Park area). I’m visiting this cherished location the following Sunday, April 18th from 1p-3p. It’s really a quaint shopping and restaurant area.

   I hope to meet you at one of these upcoming April events!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   Turner Classic Movies, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, and Los Angeles residents are working in conjunction to preserve and purchase 138 acres of Cahuenga Peak, the land adjacent to the famous Hollywood Sign. According to Hollywoodsign.org…

The Hollywood Sign Trust fully supports the campaign to raise $12.5 million. This will protect the landmark view of “The Sign” for future generations to enjoy.

The campaign is directed by The Trust for Public Land, which must raise these funds by April 14, 2010 to prevent the land being developed into sprawling luxury estates.

The Hollywood Sign Trust has given its permission for “The Sign” to be temporarily covered by a banner reading Save The Peak in support of fundraising efforts. The installation, maintenance, and removal of the temporary banner will be closely monitored by authorities to ensure that no harm comes to “The Sign” in any way.

DONATE TODAY TO PROTECT “THE SIGN” VIEW!
Please consider making a tax-deductible donation today to help this important campaign complete its goal. Any amount, whether large or small, will be greatly appreciated.

If need additional information, contact:
Betsy Isroelit
213.300.0108
betsy@rbicom.com.

   As author of Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History, I urge readers and friends to make a donation!

Until next time>                               “never forget”

Manny P. here…

   My good friend, Jeff Bordner, is an Emmy-winning voiceover actor. He was the recent host of Puppy Bowl VI on Animal Planet. He has written a positvie reflection about Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History. His assessment now appears as a bonafide review that you can find on the navigation bar (Worldwide Comments). Jeff and his family currenly lives near Salt Lake City. Thanks to Jeff for supporting my efforts…

   Borders has added a new store to the family. Forgotten Hollywood Forgotten History can now be found in their Westchester location. This store is just off the 405 Fwy, south of Culver City in Southern California.   Borders – Westchester …welcome aboard!

Until next time>                               “never forget”