FACEBOOK FAN FRIDAY: Peter Petersong
Today on Facebook Fan Friday, we bring you Peter Petersong, who has a pretty sweet nickname and loves partying to techno…read more below.
If you want to be featured on “Facebook Fan Friday” and share some things about yourself:
1. Like Cat ‘n Mouse Promotions on Facebook.
2. We’ll select a new fan each week to feature!
1. What’s your name?
Peter “Disco” Song… Disco is my nickname because I used to wear a lot of polyester and I could boogie down.
2. What do you do?
A CPA… nothing interesting there.
3. Favorite places to eat in Los Angeles?
I like the classics… In-n-Out, the Taco Trucks, but my favorite place is Super Pho in Culver City. Best Pho in LA.
4. Who’s your favorite superhero?
Greatest American Hero… best theme song ever.
5. Describe a perfect weekend for you?
Waking up at a reasonable hour to watch European soccer. Go Barca or Totten! Drinks at an outdoorsy bar/lounge then listen to some techno in a dark after-hours club. Wake up with too little sleep then brunch with friends and pass out and wake up hungry and order pizza and watch Family Guy.
6. What was the last concert you went to? How was it?
Matthew Dear with his band. He DJ’d afterward. The band was pretty great, Their sound was a futuristic version of Talking Heads and the DJ set was amazing as usual.
7. Shout-outs? Words of wisdom?
My friend Stig just got engaged. Congrats Stig and Caitlin! Dont do drugs, it might just make you too awesome.
Get your Rox off
The Roxy is my favorite venue to see live music in Los Angeles. I’ve seen a countless number of kicks-ass shows there, and will continue to do so. Heather Kohos, Chief Brand Officer for The Roxy was cool enough to answer some question about life at the club. Please check out the interview below.
1. What has been your favorite Roxy memory so far?
I’ve worked at The Roxy for seven years… so choosing one memory is really difficult. My personal favorites are behind the scenes memories that stay behind the scenes so I can’t share those. Here is what I can share: The people that work here are among the most amazing and fun people out there. When we do off-site events it’s incredible to see the events come to fruition. This year was our fourth annual AUSTINROX (Roxy showcase in Austin during SXSW) and when Saint Motel performed the whole Roxy crew jumped on the dance floor to groove. It was a perfect release after a crazy week of work. The Roxy’s dance circles are infamous. Top ten memories for sure.
2. How did you get started working for the club?
I could make it a long story but I’ll skim the surface for you. I started working here in the box office in November of 2003. It was supposed to be a part time thing so I could focus on making artwork the other days but after one week I went full time. And after 6 months in the box office I was brought into the office as the Talent Buyers assistant. Every few years my role would shift to my strengths keeping things fresh and interesting. And about a year ago I took on the title CBO (Chief Brand Officer) which basically means I help run this place.
3. Can you tell us about a day in the life at the Roxy offices?
I could but then I would have to kill you… Kidding. We work hard. We want to be the first to know things, the first to do things, the best at the things we do, and we also like to laugh as much as possible. Any chance to celebrate is welcomed because at the end of the day these people are the shit… but we keep those non-curricular activities (for the most part) out of office hours.
4. Who hasn’t played at the Roxy that you would love to see there?
The Black Keys. I could be wrong but I don’t believe that they have played here before and I definitely would like them to.
5. Top three Roxy shows you’ve seen?
Dolly Parton, My Chemical Romance, Foo Fighters. Ask me the bands and comedians I wish I had seen… That list is crazy bananas.
6. When you aren’t spreading the word about the Roxy…What are you doing?
My life is about friends & family, fun, fashion, art and food. I get into all sorts of crazy adventures but I’m saving them for my book… hahaha.
7. How do you market the club? What works? What doesn’t?
The Roxy has gotten very strategic in our marketing. We know what genres work with a street strategy and which would work better online, etc. And sometimes there is a show that thwarts all of our best efforts. Some shows are easy and some take a lot of work. That’s just the nature of the industry.
8. What are some of your favorite restaurants in Los Angeles?
I love to eat, go on food adventures and I have a few restaurants that I couldn’t live without but I would have to say Tito’s Tacos is by far my favorite. It must be the witty theme song. http://titostacos.com/
9. What bands do we need to listen to?
Saint Motel, Nico Vega, A Fine Frenzy *they shouted out to me on Twitter awhile back and it made my day.
10. Shout-outs? Words of wisdom?
Find a place you love to be, and be there…and sometimes, put down your smart phone to enjoy rather than document.
FACEBOOK FAN FRIDAY: Michael Anthony
Today on Facebook Fan Friday, we bring you Michael Anthony, who loves the guitar and is going to see Prince tonight (lucky him)…read more below.
If you want to be featured on “Facebook Fan Friday” and share some things about yourself:
1. Like Cat ‘n Mouse Promotions on Facebook.
2. We’ll select a new fan each week to feature!
1. What’s your name?
My name is Michael Anthony, ( aka: guitar mike) but you can call me Michael.
2. What do you do?
I’m a guitarist, I’m a hustler, I’m a jack of all trades and a king of nothing (except for playing guitar.)
3. Favorite places to eat in Los Angeles
Whole Foods, Swingers, Katsuya, Niko sushi, Traktir, Clay Oven, Pita Kitchen, The griddle… to name a few.
4. All time favorite album?
Zeppelin 3 or The Chili Peppers, Blood Sugar Sex Magic… Im thinking RHCP kinda takes the cake. Everything about that album is magical.
5. Describe a perfect weekend for you?
Sleeping in everyday, hitting up Runyon Canyon or the beach early afternoons, then coming back home for a nap and after that get ready for the night. At night Id hit up a cool dive bar anywhere in L.A.. So if none of that went down, you’d probably find me stoned in my room playing guitar.
6. What was the last concert you went to? How was it?
The last concert i technically saw was Kanye West at Coachella. I wanted to hate it… like I really really didn’t want to like his show, but let me tell you… Kanye fucking killed it. He may be a lil prick, but he sure as hell put on a good show. I’m actually seeing Prince tomorrow and would’ve preffered the question after tomorrow.
7. Shout-outs? Words of wisdom?
I’ll give a shout out to you and Brandon, and to all the kids that dream to one day explore space in all of its infinite glory.
Also… I live by this… Dont shit where you eat.
Thanks
FACEBOOK FAN FRIDAY: Jacqueline (Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!)
Today on Facebook Fan Friday, we bring you Jacqueline from Melbourne, Australia. She loves a good book and is always up for a juicy Italian deli sandwich…read more below.
If you want to be featured on “Facebook Fan Friday” and share some things about yourself:
1. Like Cat ‘n Mouse Promotions on Facebook.
2. We’ll select a new fan each week to feature!
1. What’s your name?
My name is Jacqueline, but my buddies like to call me Jack, for short.
2. What do you do?
I am a Library Officer (the cool variety)! What that very “official” title means, is that I help out book-seekers with everything library related; I am there to assist anyone that needs assisting!
3. Favorite places to eat in Los Angeles?
Well, I’d have to say my own kitchen (*grin*) – BUT if I am out and about, I LOVE Bay Cities Italian Deli and Portos! In my opinion, these are the best places in L.A to get awesome bread and delicious sandwiches. YUM!
4. Fun day time Los Angeles activity you can recommend?
The Hollywood sign hike! You get an amazing view of the city, the valley, AND get up close and personal with the famous Hollywood sign. It’s a great day time activity for both tourists and locals alike.
5. Describe a perfect weekend for you?
A weekend camping, hiking, and horseback riding. Or, alternatively, a successful weekend of shopping.
6. What was the last concert you went to? How was it?
“Australia Rocks the Pier” in Santa Monica. I even got to meet Ben Lee – the headlining act and my favourite Aussie singer!! Brother was also rockin’ the stage with their bagpipes and didgeredoo!
7. Shout-outs? Words of wisdom?
A big shout-out to all my fellow Aussies Down Under! As far as words of wisdom go, take one day at a time, savour simple pleasures, and don’t sweat the small things. Enjoy life.
By the way…If you’re in the market for a pet, SAVE A LIFE…shelter dogs make great, loving, loyal pets!
One Life One Chance…Gotta Do It Right!
Toby Morse, lead singer of one of our favorite punk/hardcore bands H2O, was nice enough to answer some questions about his awesome program – One Life One Chance, which inspires kids to make healthy life choices.
1. What is “One Life One Chance?”
It’s the name of an H2O song that was on our album FTTW in 1999, now it’s the name of my program that inspires kids to make healthy life choices!
2. What inspired you to get this program off the ground?
A teacher and long time H2O fan from a school in Rockaway Queens did a Memoir Project with her students and made them a PMA (Positive Mental Attitude) mix CD. She put a song from H2O called Sunday on it and when the students got back from spring break she asked what song they related to the most and it was mine. The students wrote me amazing letters that gave me goose bumps about how they related to the song Sunday and the teacher then reached out to me and asked me to stop by and meet the kids next time I was in NYC and the rest is history!
3. How many schools have you spoken at? How many do you plan to do?
14 so far and as many as I can!
4. How has the overall response been?
The response has been overwhelming and every school is different. Some students have immediate reactions and some are a couple days later with emails, Facebook and Twitter messages. I usually get the best response right after I do my power point presentation and the questions and answers starts.. Interacting with the kids is my favorite part.
5. Have you learned anything from the students?
Yeah. I have unfortunately learned that most students don’t have any role models and they are being exposed to so many negative things.
6. If a student/teacher/principal wants you to speak at their school, what do they need to do?
Go to onelifeonechance.com and fill out the contact form.
7. How can we help out?
Have people tell their parents, teachers, principals etc to check out onelifeonechance.com and spread the word.
8. A day in the life of Toby?
When I’m not on tour its family time and also Taking care of all upcoming H2O shows, merchandising, etc. I work out everyday and respond to every email I get on onelifeonechance, which is a lot! I try to always enjoy downtime and my life in California. Also, being a dad and husband.. I’m truly blessed!
9. What bands do we need to listen to?
Gorilla Biscuits, Minor Threat… That’s all! Hahahaha.
10. What are some of your favorite restaurants in LA?
Veggie Grill, M Cafe, Doomies, Native Foods, Gratitude.
11. What’s next on the agenda for you?
Europe on April 22 for two weeks and then more schools in May and Europe again in August.
12. Shout-out’s? Words of wisdom?
Chris Roque, Matt Pike, Tim Milhouse, Joseph Pattisall, Meghan McInnis, ONE LIFE ONE CHANCE GOTTA DO IT RIGHT! PMA ALL DAY!!
FACEBOOK FAN FRIDAY: Heather Eastwood
Today on Facebook Fan Friday, we bring you Heather Eastwood, who’s a scientist by day and party animal at night…read more below.
If you want to be featured on “Facebook Fan Friday” and share some things about yourself:
1. Like Cat ‘n Mouse Promotions on Facebook.
2. We’ll select a new fan each week to feature!
1. What’s your name?
Heather Ann Eastwood (aka: Boo, H, Trim)
2. What do you do?
Senior Research Associate (science during the day … party at night)
3. Favorite places to eat in Los Angeles?
Hide Sushi in Japanese Village/Sawtelle. I love me some raw fish.
4. Favorite bars in Los Angeles?
Standard Downtown rooftop bar, especially for summer time parties.
5. Any fun plans for the weekend?
Checking out the Scion Art show in Culver City and then head over to A Club Called Rhonda at El Cid in Silverlake. Oh, and getting a facial on Saturday morning.
6. What bands have you been rocking out to lately?
Friendly Fires and Two Door Cinema Club.
7. Shout-outs? Words of wisdom?
I would like to make a shout out to my two pet frogs. And words of wisdom – less is more …don’t be a slave to your spending … don’t be a slave to your job. And be happy with what you have. xxxo
Real talk with a fashionista
Johanna Melamed is a young entrepreneur who at the age of nineteen already owned her own high-end resale-clothing boutique, The Closet. After being in the fashion industry for seven years, Johanna is now the proud owner of two thriving boutiques in Santa Barbara and Westlake Village with another store soon to open in Santa Monica. Check out our chat below.
1. How did a 19-year-old college student come to open her own store?
I came to Santa Barbara for college in 2003 and in my first week there I went downtown looking for a part-time job. I parked my car in a city lot and happened to walk through an alley on my way to an interview at a nearby café. In the alley I noticed a boarded up office with a “Now Hiring” sign and I called the number on the sign. A woman named Jeri picked up and told me she was opening a vintage boutique called The Closet in this converted office space. A few days later she hired me. As the only employee, I helped her paint the space, build the fixtures, and gather the inventory. A few months later The Closet opened its doors as a vintage and consignment shop. I continued on as a part-time sales associate for several months, until circumstances in Jeri’s personal life changed and she told me she was moving out of state. I was devastated to think that the shop would be closing after all the hard work that went into getting it started, and I felt that somehow I had to try running it myself. I purchased The Closet in its first year of business for practically nothing, since we were not yet turning a profit. I don’t know what I was thinking considering I was a college freshman who knew nothing about business, but after much trial and error, help from friends, and many “how-to” books, we made it through our first couple years and eventually became profitable. Balancing school and the store was very challenging at times, but much to my own surprise I ended up graduating from UCSB in four years as planned. Over the years, the shop has evolved from a vintage boutique to contemporary resale and consignment, specializing in current, high-end labels, and we are now called “The Closet Trading Company”. In 2008 we opened our second store in Westlake Village, and in 2010 we moved the Santa Barbara store from the tiny little nook in which we started to our beautiful new State Street space. This summer we are thrilled to open our new Santa Monica location.
2. It’s impressive that you are able to compete with corporate giants, such as: Buffalo Exchange, and Crossroads Trading Co. How are you able to refrain from being bullied around by these big businesses?
I read something once from the guy who started godaddy.com, Bob Parsons, “Pay attention to what your competitors are doing, but pay more attention to what you are doing.” I love that thought, and every time I feel anxious about keeping up with our much larger competitors I try to come back to this quote and re-focus. It is valuable to be aware of what your competitors are doing and how they are progressing, but we try to always be more concerned about working within our own company to continually develop ourselves. We like to say, there is no such thing as “better enough.” To differentiate ourselves from the retail marketplace as a whole, we place a heavy emphasis on the core of our business, customer service. We buy and sell clothes, but the commodity that truly makes us special is the level of service we provide and the uniquely enjoyable experience we create for our customers.
3. Can you tell us a bit how you market your brand?
We market our brand using a number of different avenues, including TV commercials, print advertising, radio spots, social media, and of course guerrilla marketing with Cat ‘n Mouse.
4. What’s hot right now at the Closet?
JEANS! It’s all about Hudson, True Religion, and J Brand right now. We also love all the effortlessly fabulous summer styles from brands like Free People, Marc Jacobs and Vince.
5. What fashion trends do you wish would disappear forever?
I definitely look back at some old pictures and wonder what in the world I was thinking! But I am really excited about some trends that are coming back in, like the super long maxi dresses and skirts – you never know what trend from the past might just come back around again!
6. Fashion tips?
One of the easiest tips I suggest to customers who want to take their look up a notch is to switch out the belt that come attached with a piece of clothing. For example, if you get a dress that comes with a tie belt, just switch it out for a leather belt and I promise, you will look so much more put-together! Also, when layering pieces, keep proportion in mind by remembering the phrase “little over big over little”. For example, you layer a fitted (little) jean jacket, over a flowy (big) tunic, over skinny (little) jeans and voila! Your look will be perfectly balanced and chic!
7. Any advise for aspiring business owners?
Another nugget of wisdom from the GoDaddy guy (paraphrased): “Focus on what you want to have happen, but accept the worst possible outcome.” It reminds me to stay positive when things aren’t going my way, but also that you have to qualify what exactly is the worst that could happen, because the known consequence is easier to grapple with than the unknown.
8. Where can we go to find out more about The Closet?
Visit one of our stores if you live in SoCal, or check us out online at:
FACEBOOK FAN FRIDAY: Interview With Colette von
Today on Facebook Fan Friday, we bring you Colette von, who loves getting massaged and eating peppers (of the grilled variety)…read more below.
If you want to be featured on “Facebook Fan Friday” and share some things about yourself:
1. Like Cat ‘n Mouse Promotions on Facebook.
2. We’ll select a new fan each week to feature!
1. What’s your name?
Colette von
2. What do you do?
-I am an Entrepreneur (Own Private Music School, Flower Company, Artist Management Company, Massage Company, Flier Design/Printing Company) -I am a Musician- Vocals in Hard rock band named Capricious. I also play guitar, piano, bass, and hand percussion outside of the band. -I looooove painting!
-and I Break Hearts lol.
3. Favorite places to eat in Los Angeles?
MY KITCHEN! I love cooking. If I’m going out, I have a few places that I LOVE- Pho 2000, Tahoe Galbi, The Grill
4. Favorite bars in Los Angeles?
BAR SINISTER/Boardners, Big Foot
5. Describe a perfect day for you?
Wake up after camping on the beach, eat some cereal- lucky charms =), get a massage, cook some lunch- maybe grilled peppers and chicken a la wrap, then look for sea shells and play guitar…on the beach. THEN drive the PCH. THEN go to a rock show! THEN go back to the beach and run around in the dark hahaha- bon fire!!!!!
6. What bands are you really into now?
This is a terrible question hahaha…too many…
Neil Zaza, Scale the Summit, Collective Soul, Tool, Alice in Chains, NIN, STP, QOTS
7. Shout-outs? Words of wisdom?
Shout outs- Love my boys!
Cameron- Karaoke buddy, so much fun!
David- Maybe one of the best guitar players I know! ♥ you!
My sister Natalin- Bech Bech, I love you!
BFF- Jamiekins, best knockers in town! Hahaha ♥
Words of wisdom-
-If you’re hungry, eat something.
-Live for the now, we don’t know when life will be taken.
-Stop judging others, and get over it! Why do we keep this spiral of insecurity, especially in Los Angeles? WTF People?