Women Creating Change November 17, 2019

Women Creating Change - photo by Michael Tullberg

Arab and Israeli women in film and television united for an unprecedented evening, proving that art can transcend religion and politics, at the ‘Stand Up 4 Her’ event, in Los Angeles, California, on November 17th, 2019. The founder of Women Creating Change (WCC), Lee Broda, along with her founding team Inbal-Rotem Sagiv, Nawal Bengholam, Natasha Kermani, Shelly Skandrani, Natalie Marciano, Reem Edan, Eliya Reis, Reem Kadem, Micky Levy, and dozens of other members, presented an awe inspiring event which featured powerful performances by renowned female comedians, poets, storytellers, artists, performers, and musicians from Lebanon, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Iran, Pakistan, Morocco, Palestine, and Israel.

Reem Kadem & Gal Macadar - photo by Jonathan C. Ward

The sold out, star studded event, including patrons such as Yael Grobglas ("Jane the Virgin"), Alon Aboutboul (The Dark Knight Rises), and Sarah Idan (Miss Universe Iraq 2017), had the audience laughing, crying and cheering! The guests came in expecting to be entertained, but they also left so inspired, buying raffle tickets, and donating to the non-profit, proving WCC’s mission of bridging communities, to be a success!

The evening began with authentic Middle Eastern cuisine from Chef Oshri Vaknin and a hosted cocktail reception sponsored by Stella Artois and Dulce Vida. As guests mingled and took pictures on the red carpet, they were introduced to astonishing works showcased in the art exhibit, including the original artwork of Fadia Afashe (Syria), Pooneh Rafsha (Iran), Tasneem Rahman (Pakistan), and Ilanit Maghen (Israel), curated by Lauren Annette Schoth.

Zain Shami - photo by Jonathan C. Ward

Lee Broda opened the show with a moving introduction to Women Creating Change’s mission to bring together women of different beliefs, religions and political views from the Middle East.

According to Lee Broda, "We seek to inspire change and bridge cultural divides; we believe that together we are stronger, because our similarities are greater than our differences.”

“Stand Up for Her” kicked off with Muslim-Iraqi Comedian Reem Edan and Jewish-Israeli actress Gal Macadar “arguing” over who would serve as host. “Let’s settle this like men. Meet me outside in five,” Edan said. “Or we can settle this like women and talk about it,” replied Macadar. (The women decided to co-host.)

Natalie Marciano - photo by Jonathan C. Ward

The show featured outstanding comedians Crystal Marie Denha, Melissa Shoshahi, Noam Shuster, Nina Kharoufeh, Natalie Marciano, Zain Shami, and Mona Shaikh, who shared saucy insights into being a modern Middle Eastern woman, revealing through humor, that they all share the same plights.

Crystal Marie Denha made the audience blush with her jokes about sex.

Natalie Marciano had them ululating loudly saying “If Gwyneth Paltrow doesn’t know what it is, it must be some messed up shit!”

“I see you undressing me with your eyes,’ said hijab wearing Zain Shami. “Do you want to make me your second wife?”

To balance out the evening, poets and storytellers entered the stage with emotionally provoking performances, reading original and borrowed work.

Nawal Bengholam read a poem by Salma El-Wardany. Lee Broda shared her poem, "The Vow," from her book of poetry, Whispers from the Moon:  "I promise to honor the woman in me… water her with light, feed her kindness, kiss her scars, bathe her with love.”

Shelly Skandrani performed her poem "Social Reconditioning."

Shelly Skandrani - photo by Jonathan C. Ward

“Too busy convincing me that I don’t know my own desires, and the world admires your strength and
conviction, my smile and submission.”

Inbar Lavi (Lucifer) spoke of how women create the feeling of home, and what connects the WCC members is that they’ve left their homes behind and built a new one in Los Angeles. Storyteller Ayser Salman shared moments about her childhood as an immigrant from her book The Wrong End of the Table: A Mostly Comic Memoir of a Muslim Arab American Woman Just Trying to Fit In.

Guests also enjoyed a special musical performance by Inbar Starr and beats from DJ Karina Kay.
The event was wrapped up with a dessert reception hosted by The Baklava Factory and Mamilla Restaurant, and the VIP guests even received gift bags with Converse Shoes and other goodies.

All proceeds achieved from the evening will benefit WCC programs for female filmmakers. WCC is fiscally sponsored by Women’s Voices Now. The event was held in partnership with Women In Film, Alliance of Women Directors, New Filmmakers LA, Film Fatales, Women In Media, and Saddle Ranch Pictures.

Inbar Lavi & Lee Broda - photo by Jonathan C. Ward

“Women Creating Change was founded by female filmmakers and artists from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA),"stated WCC Founder, Lee Broda. “I was excited to help celebrate these talented female storytellers at this year’s event, Stand Up 4 Her, as we continue to strive to create a space for peaceful co-existence and honest, substantive dialogue around today’s issues.”

In a time when women are fighting for or against something, and rightly so, it is however, refreshing to come together for an evening and celebrate each other.

Attendees reveled in the evening’s ambitious program! Inbal-Rotem Sagiv, Executive Director, said “[We were] planning this event for a while, and were excited to share our vision, but little did we know it would incite such a magnificent reaction!

Press Release: Sara Serena

Publicist Jodi Jackson tells us that her "new client Sara Serena...is quickly becoming the new Pop Sensation," and that "Nexar Recording Artist Sara Serena’s Single 'Chasing Dragons' [reached] #9 on [the] Billboard Hot 100 Single Sales Chart."

Ms. Jackson also tells us that Ms. Serena is a "Spanish import" in "Hollywood, California," and that "'Chasing Dragons,' [was] written by The Kennel, [which has] more than one hundred #1 hits in the world."  Ms. Jackson adds that, besides reaching #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 Single Sales Chart, it reached "#79 on [the] Mediabase Radio Chart."

According to the International Music Festival Wikia, Sara was born in Zaragosa, Spain, in 1998.

Ms. Jackson claims that Sara went from being unknown to being Spain's "#1 international female star in less than a year.  Her first single 'Asylum' became the #1 song [on the] radio in just three months, and [her] debut album Skyline went straight up to #4 on the sales charts...beaten only by Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars, and Ed Sheeran."  Apparently, Sara Serena’s debut album Skyline was recorded in Stockholm, London, and Los Angeles, with some of the top writers and producers in the music industry, including RedOne, Martin Wiik, Emile Ghantous, and Zayn Malik.

Ms. Jackson alleges that Sara Serena is signed to Nexar Music whose team of songwriters, producers and choregraphers support Beyoncé, Justin Beiber, and Lady Gaga, and that Nexar Music’s creative team includes JaQuel Knight, choreographer for Beyoncé; Chris Grant, choreographer for Beyoncé and formerly for Michael Jackson; Jason Woods, vocal coach and singer with Michael Jackson and Beyoncé; Jono Hart, who worked for Jason Derulo; Little Mix; and Rafa Sardina, a producer with thirteen Grammy's and forty nominations from his work with Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Shakira, Alejandro Sanz; and Vice President of the Latin Grammy, Emile Ghantous, producer and songwriter for Justin Bieber, Michael Jackson, and Charlie Wilson.

Ms. Jackson further alleges that Sara Serena has "extensive opera training" and has "performed in every major concert in [Spain], sharing the stage with...Megan Trainer.  Sara opened [a] national festival in her hometown of Zaragoza, where she performed for one hundred forty thousand [audience members].  With creative director JaQuel Knight and choreographer Chris Grant, she struts her stuff on stage with six top dancers and always sings live.

"One of the stars of Coca Cola’s Music Experience and Pop 40 (concerts organized by Los 40 Principales, [a] major radio network in Spain and Latin America), Sara Serena’s songs are...deployed in heavy rotation in the U.S.A., Columbia, Guatemala, and Argentina.

"Sara Serena is the first winner of a new global talent contest, Aim2Fame where the finalists get to come to Spain to be part of the Game Academy where Beyoncé’s creative team are the coaches. The winner gets a long-term artist contract and is launched worldwide. Sara won the competition with contestants from 43 countries; the auditions for the second season of the show have started.

"Sara Serena is the first Spanish female artist ever to have a #1 hit on American radio stations; considered one of the best singers in the industry, she has taken America by storm.  Walter Afanasieff, says, 'Sara Serena is the next Celine Dion'; he would know, having produced all of Celine’s top albums.

"Sara Serena is self-taught; she plays three instruments, (accordion, piano, and the guitar); she has perfect pitch and a photographic memory...[and] is wise beyond her years, which she attributes to her three grandparents," whose initials she has tattooed, [Ms. Jackson says] on one of her arms.

Speaking about her music, Serena says, “Everything is like a heartbeat; it starts in you and goes through your body; the important thing is to make people feel something.”

You can follow Sara on:

Facebook - Saraserenamusic

Instagram - Saraserena

Twitter – Saraserenamusic

YouTube

Press release by Jodi Jackson
Edited by William Mortensen Vaughan

Update: Adrian Voo

Jason Biggs and Adrian Voo

Adrian Voo granted us an interview in August, 2014.  Two years later, Adrian Voo is, according to David Cochrane of AdrianVoo.com, "set to to make his comedy debut" by "playing Best Man Da​n in... Amateur Night​."   

Jason Biggs, of American Pie fame, stars as Guy Carter, "an insecure, expectant father who unwittingly becomes a chauffeur for three charismatic call girls (Janet Montgomery, Ashley Tisdale, Bria L. Murphy).  

Lisa Addario and Joe Syracuse (both known for writing Parental Guidance) wrote and directed Amateur Night.

Cinedigm will release Amateur Night in theaters and V.O.D. (Video on Demand) on August 12, 2016.

Amateur Night

The official trailer is at:

youtube.com/watch?v=8XoKjRZx0AA

Adrian Voo also stars, as Adrian, in the upcoming film Little Bitches.

Press release by Robert Cochrane and William Mortensen Vaughan

Press Release: Just Drive

My name is Andrea Vahl, a friend and ally of Lora Keleher, and I am a producer on the film Just Drive. Lora told us that you might be interested in hearing a little more about our film and charitable aspirations in consideration for an article.  Thank you for giving us your time and consideration.

I’m sure you get inundated with topic suggestions on a regular basis, but one of the trends I’m sure you’ve noticed is that digital content - whether on Youtube or Netflix- has become the primary source of entertainment instead of scheduled tv or movie theaters, and a lot of it is being crowdfunded. We believe you and your audience would be very interested in the caliber and uniqueness of my team’s filmmaking plan because we are embracing the new norm of digital consumption and crowdfunding and utilizing it to #BeTheChange and #BetterTheWorld.

Most filmmakers enjoy the privilege of crowdfunding and then keep the equity that would normally be repaid to investors once the project is released. We won't do that! Our Indiegogo campaign, and its surrounding content, will support children's charities voted on by our allies. In addition, the entire filmmaking experience is intended to be a social collaboration that will be documented and shared in real time.

We feel ‘Just Drive’ could be a great story for you for these reasons:

We Intend To Be The Change We Wish To See In The World - We believe if we’re going to seek the support of the crowd to make this movie, then it's our obligation to pay that support forward by using the film to support impactful charities. With the help of From the Heart Productions, all donations to our campaign are tax deductible.  Additionally, 10% of every donation will go directly to a children’s charity voted on by our backers.  When the finished film is released and bringing in revenue, we’ll make a donation to that same charity equal to the total amount raised by our campaign. Our Indiegogo page has a video and a list of Social Filmmaking examples that demonstrate what makes our project original and socially accountable.

Social Casting & Live Streamed Production - To collaborate with and allow ourselves to be held accountable by the crowd, we will document and share everything in as close to real time as possible. This includes our Social Casting process that is now entering the third round. The highlight of our Social Filmmaking plan is that the entire production will be live streamed on a "Big Brother"-esque set where each day will conclude with a “TMZ Live” styled Wrap Up Show.

A Bus Tour With Free Screenings For Local Charities - In the lead up to the release of 'Just Drive', we intend to embark on a 20 city bus tour around the country that will be a rolling online reality-show. Cities will be chosen based on the regions of the US with the highest percentage of campaign backers.

We would be honored if you would consider covering Just Drive’s crowdfund campaign and our charitable efforts with filmmaking through interactivity and accountability.

Indiegogo link: http://igg.me/at/Just-Drive-The-Movie/x/3419715

Recent Press Release: http://www.prlog.org/12477046-gratwick-films-to-launch-crowdfunding-campaign-to-benefit-feature-film-and-childrens-charities.html

Movie Site: http://justdrivethemovie.com

Press Release: Warrior Seduction

Introducing my new dating and relationship coach client DeAnna Lorraine - www.deannalorraine.com

DeAnna Lorraine is an internationally-acclaimed dating and relationship coach and is recognized as one of the leading and most trusted female dating coaches in the world. Nicknamed “Ms. Hitch,” she specializes in coaching single men and women who have been chronically unlucky in love and are ready to flip the script on it.

Ms. Hitch is responsible for transforming hundreds of men and women from inexperienced, unpopular, shy, socially awkward, and single to confident, desirable, and savvy mates who readily attract the opposite sex.

Check out DeAnna's women-focused coaching site here - http://datingcoachdeanna.com

Her revolutionary coaching method for helping men to powerfully attract, date, and succeed with women has produced spectacular results in the love lives of men young and old, and have led to hundreds of new relationships, ‘rock star’ sex lives, and marriages with women that they had previously only dreamed about getting.

Check out her live webinar Warrior Seduction here - https://warriorseduction.com

Would you like to be a featured guest on her upcoming live podcast in LA?

Reach out and make a direct connection with DeAnna here - Deanna@DeannaLorraine.com

You can also visit her official website for a free 30 minute consultation:

www.deannalorraine.com/date-coaching-services/free-date-coaching

Click her for free dating advice via her YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/user/DeAnnaLorraine7

For interviews, appearances, or questions:

Josh Mitchell
Wickid Pissa Publicity
www.wickidpissapublicity.com

Elevate your buzz, branding, and exposure - https://pissingonthepulseoftheplanet.wordpress.com

Press Release: Aguruphobia

Winner ‘BEST COMEDY’ feature film

  ‘AGURUPHOBIA’
Screens in Los Angeles for One Night Only at the Laemmle Noho7
Sept 2nd, 7:30pm


In Attendance
Director/Writer/Producer
Richard Montes

Actress/Writer/Producer
Jade Puga

Actor/Co-Producer
Pepe Serna

Q&A Moderator
Jesús Salvador Treviño

HOLLYWOOD, CA – August 23, 2015– Safada Y Sano Productions festival Award winning film Aguruphobia, directed by the refreshing new voice of Latino cinema- Richard Montes, stars veteran Hollywood actor Pepe Serna (Scarface, Car Wash, American Me) and energetic multi-hyphenate newcomer Jade Puga who penned and produced with Richard Montes will play for one night only at the Laemmle Noho7, in North Hollywood, CA on Wednesday September 2nd, 2015, at 5240 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood, CA, US, 91601.

Richard Montes' Aguruphobia, the ‘Best Comedy’ winner at the 2015 Viva Latino Film Festival NYC Int’l, and two time winner at the 2015 Denver, Colorado Xicanindie Film Fest shines light to the heavy issue of mental health in America where people, often desperate for something more, seek happiness through self-help methods and gurus. 

Aguruphobia is part of a wave of young American Latino indie filmmakers redefining the American Latino experience on screen and taking control of the type of stories available to American Latino audiences.   

In a “funny and touching” portrayal Jade Puga in a “tour de force breakout performance” plays agoraphobic Crystal Luna a mystic and follower of internet guru Nanak when she discovers the biggest thing since peyote: a wave vibrator, the answer to enlightenment. However, her life is turned upside as she navigates the wacky journey to self-discovery. Along the way to self-discovery, she realizes that searching for enlightenment can be dangerous.

Veteran actor Pepe Serna (Scarface, Car Wash, Banzai Buckaroo) gives a “multi-layered performance” as Nanak, a charismatic guru who uses the internet to become a commercial merchant of self-help happiness to the online masses.

After a chance meeting with Nanak, Crystal is left fearing for her life and intent on keeping her most prized possession- the vibrator from falling into the guru's hands.  Serna and Puga are aided by a colorful cast of supporting characters. With the help of her friends, Crystal must outwit the guru in a dangerous game of cat and mouse, all while saving her home from foreclosure, trying to reach enlightenment, maintaining her sanity and protecting her vibrator at all costs.
          
“Aguruphobia is a sensory overload” with a vibrant and textured original film score and features the dynamic music of Adam Michaelson as well as an appearance by the pop punk band Cold Forty Three.

“Aguruphobia surprises” with dali-esque landscapes, CGI effects and a Bollywood dance sequence.
The immersive world Director Richard Montes creates is supported by his “skilled grasp of orchestrating the comedic timing, and seamless weaving of the grandiose elements of this indie cult film in the making”.
                
“Jade Puga and Richard Montes are an incredibly talented writing, producing and directing team.  They are the cutting edge of new talent.” –Director Jesús Salvador Treviño (ER, Dawson’s Creek, Law & Order, Criminal Minds)

Aguruphobia plays Wednesday, September 2nd, 2015, 7:30 PM.
at Laemmle Noho 7
5240 Lankershim Blvd.,
North Hollywood, CA, 91601.

To purchase tickets ($12) visit: https://www.tugg.com/events/37819
          
AGURUPHOBIA
Comedy| USA | 85 TRT| PG-13| English
Cast: Pepe Serna, Jade Puga, Carlos Ramzey Ramirez.
Director: Richard Montes
Writers: Jade Puga, Richard Montes
Producer: Jade Puga Co-Producers: Richard Montes, Pepe Serna
Music Composer: Dave Volpe
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       
About Safada Y Sano Productions
SAFADA Y SANO PRODUCTIONS, LLC is a multimedia production company based
out of Los Angeles, CA formed by Richard Montes and Jade Puga.
www.sysfilms.com  www.AGURUPHOBIA.com #gurumovie #aguruphobia

Aguruphobia at the Laemmle Noho7 
Click to watch the Aguruphobia trailer
Click to visit the Aguruphobia website
Aguruphobia on IMDB

Websites:
http://www.SYSFILMS.com
VISIT Safada Y Sano on IMDB

FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/SafadaYSanoFilms
http://www.facebook.com/Aguruphobia

Twitter
@SafadaYSano
@aguruphobia 

Press Releases from Blueyed Pictures

Jamee Natella granted us an interview in September, 2013, in which she discussed the production company she founded, Blueyed Pictures.  This is an update on that company.

Cannes

The BLU crew recently returned from attending the Cannes Film Festival.

A.I.C.P.

The A.I.C.P. [Association of Independent Commercial Producers] will hold their awards ceremony (which will hopefully screen some Blueyed Pictures) at the Hammer Museum, at 10899 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California, July 29, 2015.  For tickets, go to:
 
store.aicp.com/event/2015-aicp-awards-in-los-angeles

Simon Needham 

Simon Needham has completed his latest Toyota commercial; he has directed commercials for other companies, including Lexus and Under Armour.

Ric Serena

Ric Serena newest short, "Czappa," has premiered at Dances with Films.   An Emmy nominated director, Ric Serena will direct an hour-long documentary for KCET, the promotional videos for Nickelodeon's new series, "100 Things to Do Before High School," and two promotional videos for CBS, which are finalists for the Promax Awards.

Dina Mande

Director Dina Mande is currently shooting a web series called "Dream Eater," featuring Chef Fabio Viviani in a different city each month!

Sean Faden

Sean Faden has been working as an aerial unit director for "Hubei in the Air."  Filming and shooting in ten locations, starting with Beijing, China, for six weeks, and collecting more than sixty thousand stills of tourist attractions throughout Hubei Province, he provided enough imagery for "Hubei in the Air" to put together a five-minute, all C.G. [Computer Graphic], ride film.

Liz Hinlein

Liz Hinlein's newest film, Other People's Children, will soon premiere officially at a film festival.  Coincidentally, La Libertad's founding Editor-in-Chief, Libertad Green, and Senior Editor, William Mortensen Vaughan, worked on the set of this film.

Liz has also completed a Dove commercial in Mexico City, the which commercial will air in the U.S., targeting the Hispanic market.

Sean Patrick Fahey

Sean Patrick Fahey's has completed two films.  He filmed the first, Mad As Hell, which is a tribute to Howard Beale's famous speech from the movie Network, in one weekend, in five cities, with five actors, and five film crews.  His other recent film, "Ghosts of Cabrini Green," is a music video.
 

For the full, official update, see:

http://blueyedpicturesinc.cmail1.com/t/ViewEmail/r/07C09E6C22873A492540EF23F30FEDED/B04EACCD31D53AC51726EA5DA1051479

Press release by William Mortensen Vaughan

C.E.O. Profile: Gregory Lowe II

Gregory Lowe II

Josh Mitchell of Wicked Pissa Publicity introduced us to Gregory Lowe II as his "mobile entrepreneur client" and "a key presenter at SXSW [South by Southwest]," which took place in March.  Mr. Lowe is, Josh tells us, "an award-winning mobile entrepreneur and [the] C.E.O. [Chief Executive Officer and founder] of Lowekey Media, a new media company based in Manhattan, New York," where he "developed, conceptualized, launched, and marketed successful mobile applications with multiple Fortune 500 companies."  Mr. Lowe contributes "his own software" and hardware to the mobile technology industry," as well as what Josh calls "prescient awareness of new media trends."  Josh further tells us that "Gregory has projects in the entertainment, wearable [technology], fashion, sports, gaming, and health industries." Lowekey’s most notable [application] to date is perhaps SongBooth, "a social video network for user generated music videos that has amassed" more than million downloads worldwide; its official website is:

www.songbooth.com

It is available from iTunes, at:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/songbooth/id579884644?mt=8

Our readers can learn more about Gregory Lowe II and others whom Fast Company Magazine regards as the "Most Creative People in Business," as of last year, at:

www.fastcompany.com/3037847/get-ahead-faster/how-the-ceo-of-lowekey-media-took-the-mobile-music-relationship-to-the-next

Mr. Lowe served on the "Getting Men Comfortable With Mobile Shopping" panel at SXSW on Monday, March 16, 2015, which discussed "the growth of the mobile commerce market and the affect social shopping apps have made," and focused on helping men become more comfortable with "shopping on their smartphones and tablets... whether... buying from... Amazon or Walmart ... or...Wanelo or Wish.  They also discussed the buying and reselling of secondhand clothes, on websites such as Twice, Zold, and thredUP. 

Profile by Josh Mitchell and William Mortensen Vaughan

Press Release: Dog of God

Dog of God cover

Press release by William Mortensen Vaughan and Josh Mitchell

DISCLAIMER:  Any content with regard to mediums does not necessarily reflect the beliefs of the staff at LA Libertad, and is released solely for the entertainment of our readers. 

Dog of God:  The Novel (A Wild Romp Through Magical Worlds), a book by Cher Slater-Barlevi, is now available on Amazon, at:

www.amazon.com/DOG-GOD-MA-Cher-Slater-Barlevi/dp/1452553483author 

This novel is about Zeeep and Eeeoo, dolphins who are in love with each other, and therefore vow to be together forever. Then they die in a poacher’s snare, and learn that their next lives will be on land.  Eeeoo becomes Sabrina, a comatose little girl in Montreal, Canada; Zeeep becomes Xico, a flea-ridden dog in a tiny village in Brazil.

When they meet again, Xico has learned to be a medium, and is helping a famous shaman.  He lovingly helps to initiate the healing of Sabrina.  When Sabrina’s desperate mother steals Xico, and takes him to Canada to be with her daughter, the Brazilian villagers rally together to get their “healing dog” back, so he can do his God-given job.

Will Sabrina recover from her coma?

Will the Brazilian villagers get their dog back?

Will Zeeep and Eeeoo ever mate again?

For the answers to these and other questions, read the book!

For more information, please visit:

www.dogofgod.com

Cher Slater-Barlevi received a Master of Arts degree from the University of Santa Monica.  This book is her Master's Degree project.  She traveled to Brazil and met João Teixeira de Faria, also known as the Medium, John of God, whom she apparently believes channels thirty-two spirits.  To learn more about Cher Slater-Barlevi, please visit:

about.me/cherslaterbarlevi

To follow the author on Twitter, please visit:

www.twitter.com/cbarlevi

The novel's official Facebook page is at:

www.facebook.com/dogofgodthenovel

Press Release: Mary Bii's Fashion Show

 

by William Mortensen Vaughan and Stacy Brecht

Brandi Bregman, of Mary Bii Fashion, is hosting an evening of fashion, music, dance, and art, titled "A Luxe Affair," at 7 p.m., Saturday, December 13, 2014, at Intuition Studios located at 2649 Townsgate Road, Suite #500, in Westlake Village, California.  This event will showcase some of the area's finest fashion designers, recording artists, dancers, and artists, including Mary Bii Fashion, Abbey Scott, and original designs by Marcelino. The show will take place in a spacious studio, in front of a live audience, instead of at a typical runway set-up.

Limited tickets are available.  Pre-sale tickets can be purchased for ten dollars at:

www.eventbrite.com/e/a-luxe-affair-tickets-14401315723?aff=es2&rank=0

At the door, admission will cost fifteen dollars.




Brandi Bregman is an award-winning Los Angeles fashion designer whose designs have graced runways at the infamous Key Club in Hollywood and Elevate Lounge in downtown L.A.  She has produced several fashion shows in L.A., with RAW Natural Born Artists and RAWards.

Bregman's designs have appeared on runways in L.A. for the past few years.  They are created with sustainable methods to be eco-friendly. 

To learn more about "A Luxe Affair," and to stay up-to-date on the event details, please visit:

www.facebook.com/events

[NOTE:  As of December 1, 2014, A Luxe Affair does not appear on this list of events.]

To learn more about Mary Bii Fashion, please visit:

www.MaryBii.com

www.facebook.com/pages/MaryBii-Fashion-Dome

Instagram: Bii.M_Productions

Press Release: Ed Stone

Our previous interviewee, Josh Mitchell,  of Wicked Pissa Publicity introduced us to Ed Stone as a "Detroit musician" who "has been playing the guitar since the age of twelve."  Josh tells us that "fans of [Ed's] music have called him the 'New George Benson,'" because "he has such a love and devotion to perform" that "it is felt in the quality of his music."  Furthermore, Josh tells us that Ed is "not only a virtuoso jazz guitarist and songwriter," but also "a doctor with his own practice in Michigan."  Ed's latest C.D. [Comact Disc], "King Of Hearts," is now available with what Josh calls "its laid back style and high caliber musicianship" and "smooth jazz at its finest."

Footage of Ed on Detroit's Fox 2 T.V. late last year can be seen at:

www.myfoxdetroit.com/video?clipId=9496920&autostart=true

Footage of Ed on NBC can be seen at:

www.clickondetroit.com/news/live-in-the-d/Live-in-the-D-Ed-Stone-s-medicine-and-music/25855388

Ed's official website is:

www.edstonemusic.com

Interview by Libertad Green

Press Release: Natalie DeGenova

Natalie DeGenova

Press release by William Mortensen Vaughan  Natalie DeGenova is a model from Youngstown, Ohio.  According to her ModelMayhem page, at:

www.modelmayhem.com/2576613

she stands five feet, nine inches tall, has measurements of 32A-24-33, and weighs approximately one hundred twenty pounds.  It also indicates that she studied in New York City, and regards designer Michelle Salins' show in Fashion's Night Out as her first break into modeling.  Her ModelMayhem profile also indicates that she has no piercings or tattoos, and doesn't pose nude.

Her Twitter page is at:

twitter.com/dancinnatalia

and contains the following remarks:

"A skill on my resume should be 'highly proficient at daydreaming in coffee shop while avoiding important life decisions,'" "Always fear regret more than failure," and "More Americans correctly named the stepfather of Honey Boo Boo than have Ebola.  In conclusion, we're going to be O.K.  Hopeless, but O.K."

LV Pro Photography

Her ModelMayhem and Twitter pages mention Pennsylvania.  Of Pittsburgh, she tweeted, "the city so confusing even your G.P.S. [Global Positioning System] gets lost..."

Her YouTube channel is at:

www.youtube.com/user/The212rock

and features videos which demonstrate her ability to dance as well as model.

Her model reel is at:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXbDwy8DQlo

Her Pinterest page is at:

www.pinterest.com/nataliedegenova

and indicates that she was ready for Halloween, and loves shoes and Starbucks.

Her OneModelPlace profile at:

www.onemodelplace.com/models/natalie-degenova

indicates she does fashion/editorial, runway, swimwear, sport, and hair and make-up modeling.

These photos of her are by LV Pro Photography.

Press Release: Matt Cady

Matt Cady

Press release by William Mortensen Vaughan and Stacy Brecht  According to previous cover model, Stacy Brecht of CBS Los Angeles,  Matt Cady's "first full-length show, titled 'It's About Robots and Humans and the Meaning of Life,' which he directed, choreographed, produced, and scored... [was scheduled to] be... at [the] Barnsdall Gallery Theatre... at 4800 Hollywood Blvd., Friday, Oct. 31 and Saturday, Nov. 1, at 8 p.m."

Stacy tells us that it "showcases fifteen professional dancers, telling the story of societal and governmental threats to individuality... through intricate, dynamic choreography set to an original score. 

"Matt Cady created Fanny Pak on M.T.V. [Music Television's] 'A.B.D.C.' [America's Best Dance Crew], and has choreographed world tours for Madonna, Britney Spears, and Ricky Martin.  He also provided choreographing for the film Honey 2 and the Lifetime show 'Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition.'

"...[Matt] Cady's original music, which accompanies the live production, will be sold on iTunes, and some of his imaginative art paintings will be sold in the lobby."

When asked what initiated his desire to develop this show, Matt Cady replied, "I've been conceptualizing my own show for more than seven years, and took a long hibernation to develop the music and story line for the production.

"The production taps into what made me love dance, and is loosely based on my experience with Fanny Pak."

Stacy says that Matt Cady "travels the world teaching master classes with his distinct style," and "currently tours with Intrigue Dance Intensive, N.R.G. [Energy?] Dance, and [the] Celebrity Dance Convention."

For more information, please visit:

www.mattcadypresents.com

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/matt.cady

Instagram:

instagram.com/caddyisbright

YouTube:

www.youtube.com/user/MattCadyPresents

Twitter:

twitter.com/CaddyIsBright

Press Release: Lauran de Winter

Press release by William Mortensen Vaughan  Previous Libertad interviewee, Josh Mitchell, of Wicked Pissa Publicity, has announced that he represents an actor named Lauran de Winter, whose official website is:

www.laurandewinter.com

"Originally from The Netherlands," according to Mr. Mitchell, "Lauran started his professional life as a cyclist.  After several years of competitive races, he moved to [Sydney], Australia... to begin his career in acting and charity.

"He worked as a campaign manager for Amnesty International and U.N.I.C.E.F. [the United Nations' International Children's Emergency Fund], raising millions of dollars for charity. Following a few years of philanthropic efforts, he moved to Hollywood."

His acting reel is at:

vimeo.com/107228099

Mr. Mitchell continues, "In less than three years, [de Winter] has appeared on an array of stellar T.V. shows, [as well as in] indie films, commercials, and webseries."  He played Micah in Spoken (Stacy Lightner, Director); Sandra's husband in The Becoming (Geovanni Molina, Director); and as an agent in Season Two, Episode One of "The Chosen Ones," (Fred Copeland, Director).

His IMDb page is at:

www.imdb.com/name/nm6583825

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/lauranndewinter

Twitter:

www.twitter.com/laurandewinter

Press Release: Karma

Press Release by Josh Mitchell and William Mortensen Vaughan:

Rene Reyes is the creator of Karma - The Game of Destiny, a novel, new social dating game, with a KickStarter campaign.

Karma aims to break away from the superficiality of online dating interactions.  Instead, users are encouraged to forge meaningful connections on the path to their soul mates.  Unlike popular dating applications, such as Tinder and Grindr, Karma is all about building genuine relationships.

Users who are inclined to engage in naughty behavior run the risk of being zapped out of the game by fellow players, or they can instead find players who are also naughty.

In the game, users begin their journey by selecting an avatar that best expresses their personality.  Next, the Karma Guru (the game's Artificial Intelligence) presents three different paths.  Users choose values, compatibility, or intimate preferences as their primary interest.  From this point, players may opt to enter directly into game with their avatars, or they can fill out their Journey Book to narrow their search to other players most likely to be a soul mate. In the JourneyBook, daters can customize more than three hundred fifty different characteristics regarding their dating preferences and interests.

The game always challenges you to define who you are, to know yourself, and to be as honest as you can be!

Players get to "play" potential soul mates through truth bomb questions, astrology matches, game challenges, and music sharing, as well as introductions, chatting, and going out to have fun.

When daters feel players aren't representing themselves truthfully, they can zap them away.  Not to fear, however; although naughty players maybe zapped out of the game, those who are willing can purchase additional lives to get admitted back into the game, and may continue on the search for their match with a different avatar (a new life, a new chance).

Players can remain anonymous by keeping their photos, videos, and other personal information locked, or they may decide to open their safe to a potential soul mate.  Players ultimately win in Karma when they have found their soul mate, transforming their online connection into an offline relationship.

Karma will enter the market with web-based access, and begin "app development" once the Beta is live.  The "app" will be free to download, and there are three free lives for thirty days available to new players.  After that users can buy:

  one life for $1.99,
 six lives for $6.99, or
nine lives for $9.99

Life purchases last up to thirty days, but your avatar can last for as long as you renew and you can renew with any life package that you would like.  The game is fully functional, no matter how many lives are purchased, but if all the lives are lost before thirty days, the avatar cannot be renewed, and the player is obliged to start all over again.

Press Release: All My Boyfriend's Girlfriends

All My Boyfriend’s Girlfriends script to came to life on KickStarter,
September 2, 2014 [in] Los Angeles, California.  The much anticipated comedy, written by actress and writer Megahn Perry, about the dreaded exes is finally coming to light, thanks to the magic of KickStarter. For years, the script has been optioned by studios and ran through the Hollywood Entertainment gauntlet, eventually to be told that the concept was too “female focused” a few years back.  But, thanks to the tidal wave of success from other lady comedians and their stories, and the right partners coming into play to support her mission, she knew that now was the right time to self launch the project that has been years in the making.

The premise of a young lady about to be married that has a... chance encounter with a bevy of all of her boyfriend’s ex-girlfriends is completely "relatable" and wrought with comical fodder (cue the Asian corn hole twins).  Megahn performed the script as a critically acclaimed one-woman Comedy Central stage show for years to resounding applause, and knew the project was prime for the big screen.

[Megahn says,] “[She has] never written anything that's had the effect that this script has.  People stopped me every night after the stage show and told me how much they related.  I'm proud of it.  I think it's funny.  It still makes me laugh.  I'm proud of the attention it garnered, and I couldn't put it away until I gave it one last shot.  For better or for worse (all puns intended)...”

She opened up the idea to a few key production partners who, upon reading the script, immediately wanted to join the project:  Gary Kohn, Producer, with [more than] fifteen years of experience on both sides of the camera; Lisa Astakhova, Producer, with documented success in T.V. and film, abroad and in the U.S.; and Luc Schurgers, [an] award-winning Director with international success and [a] quirky sense of comedy that directly aligns with the A.M.B.G. [All My Boyfriend's Girlfriends] story.

[Luc says that,] "[He] read Meg’s script, and... couldn't stop laughing... [but] could totally relate to the situations, and was excited about the potential to jump onboard and help make this film.  After discussing [his] vision for the movie with Meg, it became apparent that, creatively, [he and Megahn] were in perfect alignment, and we knew [they'd] be a great team to make this hilarious concept become a reality...”

[September 2, 2014 marked] the official launch of the A.M.B.G. campaign, and in [the] true fashion of the film, [it] is offering some pretty hilarious [perks], including:

For five dollars [they] will break up with your soon-to-be-ex for you because, according to the L.A.P.D. and Kickstarter, T.P.-ing [toilet papering] a house is illegal.

For two hundred fifty dollars, [they will arrange] for you and a guest to be one of the first to see A.M.G.B. on the big screen.

For five thousand dollars, you can play an ex in the film

For ten thousand dollars, [you get] your name in the big lights as [an] Executive Producer.

Please head to:

www.kickstarter.com/projects/1283137290/all-my-boyfriends-girlfriends-the-movie

See the film trailer and all the fun, and help support the All My Boyfriend’s Girlfriends mission!

Press release by Gary Douglas Kohn

For more info, go to:

www.kickstarter.com/projects/1283137290/all-my-boyfriends-girlfriends-the-movie

Musical Group Profile: The Coraggio Group

"Coraggio" is Italian for "courage."  According to their Facebook at

www.facebook.com/coraggiogroup

the Coraggio Group (record label Les Poemes Electroniques Records) was founded May 1, 2007, claims "Thailand, Liberia and Algeria" a their "Hometown," and consists of:

"Gabriela [Ananas (Portuguese for "pineapple")], Omnipotence 

Infinity, Fantasy Man and guests."

As of August 25, 2014, their web address

www.coraggiogroup.com

redirects to their SoundCloud page at

soundcloud.com/coraggio-group

Their other websites include:

myspace.com/coraggiogroup

coraggiogroup.tumblr.com

www.youtube.com/user/CoraggioGroup

Press Release: Ricky Palomino on "Raising Asia"

S.Y.T.Y.C.D. ["So You Think You Can Dance"] alum Ricky Palomino [is] featured as director/choreographer on "Raising Asia."

Combining his classical ballet training with [his] contemporary ballet repertoire at prestigious dance companies such as Cedar Lake, the "So You Think You Can Dance" alum Ricky Palomino brings technical precision, artistic passion, and creative choreography and direction to the dance world.  It is no surprise that he coaches child star Asia Monet Ray on her new Lifetime show "Raising Asia."  You may have already seen him appear on episodes of "Raising Asia" this summer.  [He appeared] on the show ... Tuesday, Sept. 2 at 10 p.m. Pacific.

Palomino highlighted, "Asia's natural talent and stage presence have raised the bar for young dancers in the industry.  Her level of technical competence is beyond most dancers her age."

Palomino's formal ballet training has helped him excel as a performer, choreographer and director.  As the foundation of dance arts, ballet helps dancers gain technical skills and flexibility.  Take a look at his intricate choreography and flawless movement at:

bit.ly/1vUGDqI

In addition to instructing Asia Monet Ray, Palomino also tours as a celebrity choreographer with SHOCK the Intensive, and serves as the company's co-director.  He is also a dance professor at A.M.D.A. (American Musical Dramatic Academy) in Hollywood, California.

Palomino's capabilities extend to other realms of dance as well. Recently, he collaborated with sixteen renowned choreographers, including Madonna's choreographer Matt Cady, in the stage production "Daylight Come," in which Asia Monet Ray was the lead dancer, and musical artists/producers Nicci and Shayon The HITman were featured.  Cady and Palomino are also working on a multi-media show in L.A. this fall.

Additionally, the L.A.-based, multi-talented artist has two albums on iTunes, titled "Hyperactive Involvement" and "Amateurly Honest."  Take a listen to his distinct sounds [at]:

www.rickympalomino.com/musician.html

Tune in to "Raising Asia" on Lifetime, Tuesdays at 10 p.m. Pacific, to see Palomino mentor Ray to the top.  You can get a sneak peak of what is in store this season [at]:

www.youtube.com/watch?v=sO8VrHCd-s8

To learn more about Palomino's career as a director, choreographer, model, and musician, visit:

www.rickympalomino.com

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/RickyMPalomino

Twitter:  twitter.com/RICKYPALOMINO

YouTube:  www.youtube.com/user/RichardMarcelino

Instagram:  instagram.com/rickypalomino

Tumblr:  rickypalomino.tumblr.com

Press release by Stacy Brecht

D.L. Rogers New Book 'Elizabeth's War: Missouri 1863'

Author D.L. Rogers Tells Heartbreaking, Little-Known Story of the Civil War and General Order No. 11 in New Book 'Elizabeth's War: Missouri 1863'

Kansas City, MO - "Elizabeth's War: Missouri 1863," recently written by Missouri author D.L. Rogers was released by Two Trails Publishing of Independence, Missouri, as well as on Amazon Kindle (http://amzn.to/1hBqKTu) and Smashwords.com (http://bit.ly/1ih12OY) on June 7, 2014 and is a historically accurate depiction of residents of Cass County, MO during the Civil War prior to and during the issuance of General Order No. 11 that gave residents, mostly women, children and the elderly, 15 days to vacate their homes—many got only 15 minutes—before those homes were destroyed, leaving them destitute with nowhere to go in blazing Missouri temperatures. This gripping novel takes readers on a heartbreaking journey of the Civil War hardships in Cass County, MO and surrounding counties as Elizabeth and her family struggle to survive amidst the destruction around her. Rogers’ research was gathered from local historians and authors, as well as history books of that era to ensure readers are not only entertained, but also learn historical facts.

Most authors and historians write about the bigger battles of the Civil War and how they affected both the North and South. Few convey the struggles suffered by those living in Middle America whose citizens’ beliefs were equally split between both sides.  Whether Yankee or Confederate, those residents wanted only to survive the bloodshed, keep their homes and their lives. The Order, issued on August 25, 1863 in response to William Clarke Quantrill’s brutal raid on Lawrence, Kansas, Missouri residents of southern Jackson, Cass, Bates, and Vernon counties, an area encompassing almost 300 square miles, were told, in essence, to vacate their homes and do one of two things: swear their loyalty to the Union—or go away.  Where they went, Union General Thomas Ewing did not care, they just had to go.

Here is a small excerpt from "Elizabeth's War: Missouri 1863" that illustrates this captivating story:

"Sadness and cruelty gripped the land with a stern hand and a hardened heart. Blackened spires of brick and stone reach toward the sky like gnarled fingers begging for mercy—or seeking death. Once symbols of warmth and security, they stand silent against the darkening horizon, the homes that once embraced them now cold, black ash—visual proof destruction is the only winner in the war that rages upon the land to leave behind scorched, burnt earth.

They called it General Order No. 11. She called it a license to burn, steal and murder. Her name was Elizabeth, a widow and mother of five young children who survived General Order No. 11 because she was too stubborn to quit. The struggle wore her to the marrow of her bones, but despite the odds, she and her children survived to tell the story. This is her story. Elizabeth’s story. One of many waiting to be told.”

To learn more about Rogers and her work, visit her website at dlrogersbooks.com and check out her other novels on Amazon and Smashwords.com. To book Rogers for a historical lecture or book signing, please contact her publicist, Stacy Brecht, at stacy.brecht@gmail.com or (816) 405-2580.