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Town Hall Tuesdays

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Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County (NLSLA) is hosting Town Hall Tuesdays in June.

nlsla logo

If you or anyone you know needs legal assistance with Tenant Rights, Public Healthcare Programs, Public Benefits & Public Charge, or Unemployment Insurance Programs, please join NLSLA and share this information.

For more information and to RSVP, click here.

For free legal help, please call (800) 433-6251 or apply online at nlsla.org.

June 9
Town Hall: Tenant Rights
Tuesday 4:30 PM ·

June 9
Derechos del Inquilino
Tuesday 6 PM ·

June 16
Public Healthcare Programs
Tuesday 6 PM

June 23
Public Benefits & Public Charge
Tuesday 6 PM

June 30
Unemployment Insurance Programs (Mandarin)
Tuesday 6 PM

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict. 

 

The Importance of Art

I was not going to write a blog this month because I felt that what was going on in the world with COVID-19 and the protests of the murder of George Floyd by the hands of a police officer.

I felt that my observations and trials and tribulations regarding the Ten Films/Ten Countries: A Cinematic Journey project, were trivial and unimportant. Then I was reminded as I watched the news coverage of the protestors marching, standing, and kneeling, that these faces of all colors and creeds, were united in a cause of injustice. What is art if not the reflection of the human condition, of love, hate, injustice, and the commonality of mankind. I am greatly saddened and angry. We are living through a historic moment that will change most of our lives forever. We should not leave it  to just the historians to tell the story. It is for all of us to speak up, express ourselves, show compassion, be kind to each other, respect each other, and come to the realization that we need each other. Art is this and so much more.

Now is the time to have opinions, speak your mind, and create.

The videos that have come from this unrest from individuals on the front lines are a remarkable record of history in the making. The media send out reporters, camera, and sound people to report and chronicle the times, but with the slant of providing information with very little commentary. By default, news agencies report hat they see and make no speculation or judgement, as they should. But the people on the streets give us this information with their take on it, with their emotions involved, and in some cases are the subject in what they are filming. It is important and now completely accessible because we all have a production studio in our pockets, in our hands. We can shoot, comment, edit, and distribute these expressions of outrage, sadness, and humanity right on the spot. No preproduction meetings, call sheets, wardrobe fittings, waiting for the camera department to light a scene, no rehearsals, only action with no take two.

So, go home and finish your scripts plan your film, and make your art and let the state of the world be part of your storytelling. You have the power to connect, express, and create from your heart the most important message you can say about the human condition.

We are all one, we all deserve respect, and we all must have peace.

Do Online Roulette Websites Measure Up To the Real Experience?

Online Roulette is an online game of luck that brings a lot of excitement as well as great returns.

Online Roulette has become a popular game that has grown gradually over the years and is so far amongst the most played game in the gambling industry. The gradual change has seen Roulette transform into online form hence its subsequent popularity.

With advancement in technology nowadays, it is quite hard to get an online casino site that doesn’t have most of the popular online casino roulette. We have some of the best online roulette sites, such as roulettesites.org that also offer Live Roulette versions, which gives players a live gambling experience. If you want to try your luck and get great rewards then online roulette is the way to go. Many of the sites that offer roulette games have been used by players because they are trustworthy. These sites have a reasonable selection of online roulette games.

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With many struggling to learn how to cope with the coronavirus scourge, online Roulette games are becoming more popular. There are chances that you can play and get huge rewards, aside from being a great pass time amidst the current pandemic. At the same time, there are also chances that players will make losses. The best advice when choosing where to play online roulette is to choose a site that gives better results and are readily available. The online casino site should also be fair, safe and trustworthy. To have the real experience of online roulette, the following factors are critical:

Look for sites which are trustworthy

Many sites are offering a wide selection of online casino games and online Roulette is amongst the selection. If you happen to be searching for a site that offers online roulette, be sure to find them in reviews. You can get some of the best online roulette sites where you can start being entertained and trying out some luck for real cash rewards.

Through reviews, you can get some of the best sites that are genuine and through the good sites new players can learn best ways of playing online Roulette. Some of the good sites offer free trials on roulette games. This is critical if you want to understand the Roulette machines system without first risking your bankroll. Choosing sites with such features is a plus as you get skills before you can play with your own real money. You can also decide whether the site is good for you to make an investment or not.

With technology taking course in the gambling industry, there are high chances of encountering more and more fake sites offering online roulette services than it has been seen. There is nothing that will stop new entrants from achieving their goal of fraud in the industry. This now makes logic why you should be extra sensitive with new online casino sites than old ones that have been in the industry for quite some time. Old casino sites have existed for ages and there is no possibility that they can run fraud activities. They are still in the industry because they follow the rules of fairness in the game. When players make valid wins they follow the laid down structure of rewarding them. This means that it is better to trust an old site because it has offered its services for some time and have a trusted track record of payment.

Risks

As online casinos spread, we have to start understanding risks. For newer sites, when you play online roulette games and make wins, they might toss around with your money. When you make payments so that you can play on games, your money will appear to be pending when in the real sense they have blocked it. When you make wins and are supposed to be rewarded, the case is the same.

There is a reason why you have to find a site that is reliable, trustworthy and safe so that you can enjoy playing online roulette games for fun and real money. You can only trust online Roulette games if they are from a genuine site. If you are not sure about the genuineness of the site you want to play on, try the games offered with little money before making that big risk with huge amounts of money. Fake sites for online roulette are on the rise and they allow you to make deposit into the casino account but then the money gets stuck which is a loss.

Even though there different rules in different countries in the world that govern the game of roulette and other games, the fact remains that there are several new casino sites which are being launched regularly. For newbies in online gambling, it is quite hard to differentiate between legal and illegal ones. There also several of them which are genuine and are offering online Roulette. By going through reviews from different players you can have an insight about the site and make up your mind whether it is worth making an investment from the site. A site that has bad reviews is a red alert and doesn’t make up to the real experience as expected.

It is also important to note that amongst the positive reviews raised by players about the site might be fake. Some of the casino sites that offer online roulette games buy out some players to give fake positive reviews so that their argument about their site can be thought to be valid. It is now becoming a trend and it is now proving to be hard to truly trust any review as some of them can guide you to a fake casino site. You will end up trusting the site and deposit huge amounts of money and end up losing up everything. It is up to the player to be on the watch  out as to which site is up to the real experience and which one is not.

Hollywood Hits: The Best Classic Poker Films for a Movie Night with Friends

Want to get the gang together for a classic Hollywood movie night?

Poker films could be your ticket to cinema paradise. Poker is a fascinating subject guaranteed to ramp up the excitement and keep everyone on the edge of their seats, making it a great choice for hosts hoping to provide some serious entertainment. If you’re not sure which films to show, we’re here to help. Read on to discover the best classics for any taste and learn how to host your movie night like a boss.

Prepare for Movie Night

There’s nothing better than a classic poker movie night with your pals. However, some may want to take it a step further with some real gaming action. If that sounds like you, consider playing an online hand or two before the film begins. You don’t have to leave your buddies out of the equation, as there are many ways to play online poker games with your friends as a group. The convenience of web-based tables eliminates the need for any cards or equipment on your end, plus the excitement is a great way to get everyone’s head in a poker frame of mind.

Once you’ve played a few hands, you’ll be more than ready to dive into the captivating world of poker films. But how to pick your film? The best movie for you depends largely on what sort of mood you want to set for the night and the genres your friends enjoy. However, you can’t go wrong when showing the classics. These three films deliver laughs, gasps, and harrowing adventures, so strap in and get ready for a night you’ll never forget.

popcorn 1085072 1280Grab your theater-style popcorn and settle down in front of the television for a poker movie marathon you’ll never forget.

  1. A Big Hand for the Little Lady

A Big Hand for the Little Lady is one of those classic films which never goes out of style. Directed by Fielder Cook and released back in 1966, the movie follows the story of a family stuck in the middle of Laredo during an annual high-stakes poker tournament.

Forced by their own circumstances to play in the tournament, they make the most of their time with a series of well-planned and often jaw-dropping moves. Lovers of comedic films will enjoy performances by Henry Fonda and Joanne Woodward in this funny masterpiece, which features a surprising and hilarious plot twist at the end that’s sure to make you chuckle.

  1. The Cincinnati Kid

Though it received mixed reviews upon its release in 1965, The Cincinnati Kid is now one of the most widely recognized poker films around. Renowned actors Steve McQueen and Edward G. Robinson play the leading men in this gem, facing off in a one-on-one battle of wits and wills around the poker table.

McQueen plays the challenger, a younger man determined to emerge as poker champion in depression-era New Orleans. Robinson agrees to take him on, and the two engage in a breathtakingly tense game of 5-card stud. The film is a harrowing one, culminating in a surprising plot twist which may be one of the best in poker movie history.

  1. Maverick

Compared to the other two films, this piece is downright modern. However, the 1994 release date doesn’t change the fact that it’s a classic. Starring Mel Gibson and Jodie Foster, Maverick is based on an original television series which aired in the 50s and 60s.

The movie tells the story of a “Maverick” card player and con artist, hoping to strike it rich with a big game but lacking the funds to go all-in for the tournament. This is an engaging film which manages to evoke an emotional response on several fronts, and its well-worth the watch if you’re searching for excitement.

There are quite a few poker films out there, but few are as entertaining as these classic favorites. Whether you’re craving a comedy or seeking some thrills, these movies deliver on all fronts. If you can’t wait to see what all the fuss is about, call up your pals and get started watching tonight.

 

Here’s the NoHo News for June 4

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NoHo News: Astroglyde. Best of the Fest! Music. Food. Theatre. Dance Studio Guide.


Here’s your NoHo arts community update!  
We look forward to sharing lots of fun and unique news, events, profiles and updates on what’s happening in the NoHo Arts District.

Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>

This issue of NoHo e-News is about what’s going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>

Here’s a glimpse at what’s going on in North Hollywood.

Click on the image and to see the online version of our NoHo News…ENJOY NOHO!

NoHo News: Astroglyde. Best of the Fest! Music. Food. Theatre. Dance Studio Guide. 

Follow NoHo News with Bloglovin

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

 

#BlackLivesMatter Message from Councilman Krekorian

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From the office of Councilman Paul Krekorian

In the past week, America yet again has been forced to confront the pernicious racial injustice that is our nation’s ugly original sin.  Like all Americans, I was outraged by the horrific image of a so-called law enforcement officer in Minnesota callously and cruelly murdering George Floyd.  That officer’s knee pressing down on the neck of an African-American man, face down on the street, handcuffed and unarmed, helpless and begging for his life, was the very symbol of the kind of abuse of power and injustice and oppression that too many have suffered for far too long. 

Anyone with a shred of human decency had to be outraged by that murder.  Anyone who believes in our country’s professed values must demand justice for it.  In this case, justice includes prosecuting that officer, and also those who just watched when they could have intervened and did nothing to protect the victim of this crime.

But justice has to extend beyond holding the perpetrators of this crime accountable.  Justice also means devoting ourselves fully to building a different kind of society in this country, in which all Americans enjoy equal protection under the law.  Justice means doing the hard work of dismantling the racial disparities that infect not only the criminal justice system, but also health care, education, housing and economic systems that institutionalize poverty across generations.  And justice means changing our own hearts and minds so that we stop seeing our fellow Americans who are different from us in appearance or in beliefs as threats or as enemies.

We should all seize this opportunity to stand up — together – to create that kind of change in this country.  And at the same time, we must stand together in firm opposition to those who would misuse this moment of grief and activism to foment violence and unrest and insecurity.  Justice also requires that we hold accountable anyone who attacks a police officer, injures an innocent person or loots or burns our community. 

This has been a week filled with great anger and great despair.  But I know there is always an opportunity to find hope and inspiration as well, if we just look for it.  Today I saw a Black family bravely defending their business as it was being attacked by looters, and then helping LAPD officers arrest the criminals.  I saw a lone white LAPD officer taking a knee in a crowd of protesters to show his respect for their voice and support for our collective cause, and as he knelt, a young Black man approached him from the crowd — to shake his hand.  And in scenes like those, and hundreds like them throughout the city, we can all see the best in the Los Angeles we love, even as we strive to make it better. 

Very truly yours, 
Paul Krekorian
Los Angeles City Councilmember, Second District

From our NoHo neighhborhood march in support, solidarity and alliance to #BlackLivesMatter.

“To Tom, I Believe”

A person would have to be living under a freeway eating Ice Plant to not know that former US Senator of Utah Harry Reid released tapes from 2015 on April 27, 2020 in a Twitter post. The headlines read that the “Pentagon Finally Acknowledges the Existence of UFOs.”

Not one to be satisfied with such an anemic explanation, LA Music Scene began sussing out the actual story behind these sightings from 2015.

Early on we found a video from MSNBC that features an interview of an individual by the name of Luis Elizondo from December 2017 where he is speaking about the Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon (UAP) in the videos which were spotted by F-18 Hornet pilots out conducting military exercises off of the coast of San Diego.

One can clearly hear the pilots chatting back and forth about the “Tic Tac” shaped UAP and how there is a whole fleet of them out there. Elizondo was presented as the head of the “Advanced Aerospace Threat ID Program” (AATIP) which was funded by Tom Delonge’s “To the Stars Academy of Arts And Science” to the tune of $22 million over a period of years to ID the UFOs that Navy pilots kept seeing on their military exercises.

For those that don’t recognize the DeLonge name allow the LA Music Scene to explain that Delonge left Blink-182 for the last time in January 2015 to focus his attention on the “To the Stars Academy of Arts And Science.” In a recent Instagram interview by “1057 thepoint” Delonge said that he has always been fascinated with conspiracy theories and has read a lot of books regarding the subject. When Delonge posted a photo of himself at a Padres baseball game holding a baseball that reads “To Tom, I Believe” from the Padres’ pitcher.

In the hit TV show “The X-Files” there is a saying from the show that goes “I Want To Believe” which is where LA Music Scene’s mind flew to when we spotted that “I Believe” saying on the baseball.

In fact this whole thing inspired LA Music Scene to write a series of blogs titled “The Truth Is Out There” at musicmavensmusings.blogspot.com which have footage of the UAP’s that are shaped like “Tic Tacs” told to the background of “The X-Files.”

There were so many questions that LA Music Scene wanted to ask Delonge, but our requests went unanswered. As a result we are left to our own imagination and use information picked up along the way of our nearly month long investigation.

In the earlier mentioned video on YouTube featuring an interview with Elizondo regarding the sightings the interviewer asked Elizondo several questions about his role as the head of the AATIP. What we found interesting was when Elizondo said how frustrated he was by the Defense Department’s constant thwarting of his efforts to report the AATIP’s findings to then US Secretary of Defense retired General James Norman Mattis. Mattis served as the U S Secretary of Defense from January 2017 to January 2019. Mattis is now a retired Four Star General that served a distinguished 40-year career with the US Marines Corps. Mattis abruptly retired from his position as US Secretary of Defense and left a lot of people asking questions. Elizondo did shed some light on the subject in his 2017 MSNBC interview.

As for Delonge, who has a new band called “Angels and Airwaves,” he also added in his Instagram interview that there is an echelon of Washington DC insiders that believe in UFOs that helped him network his way into the secret realm of UFO sightings. This subject has always fascinated Delonge and he wanted the truth to be told.

This is information/intelligence that traditionally not even Presidents are privy to or have access to regarding UFO information and its own “X-Files.” So imagine our surprise when President Donald Trump started talking about forming a “Space Force” a few years ago. How did he get information about the “Tic Tac” UAPs if even the then US Secretary of Defense wasn’t being given the intel? The former Blink-182 frontman said that when he met with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) they informed him what the “stakes” were and how he couldn’t sleep that night he was so freaked by what he had been told by the CIA.

So, what we do know is that Delonge’s organization “To the Stars Academy of Arts and Science” funded the “secret” AATIP project for a period of a few years to the tune of $22 million and that these released tapes of sightings by Navy pilots carry his organization’s brand on them in the background.

At last check, Elizondo is currently heading up Delonge’s organization as the director of “Global Security aAnd Special Programs.”

If these tapes are indeed from 2015 and that is when Delonge’s organization was begun why did the Pentagon wait to go public with the tapes until April 27, 2020? Why not when Delonge ceased funding the AATIP? One would think that having a fleet of “Tic Tac” shaped UFOs (alien drones?) would warrant a whole lot more concern than a casual Tweet by a former US Senator. Check out “The Truth Is Out There” blog series at musicmavensmusings.blogspot.com for a few of the videos that were used in our investigation and will lead people to more. Please note that the videos being mentioned come before the stories and are under them on the list.

CBS News (@CBSNews)
4/27/20, 9:00 AM
Pentagon formally releases 3 Navy videos showing “unidentified aerial phenomena” cbsn.ws/2KFa3bC pic.twitter.com/m2l1D7a1jo 

In other L A Music Scene news, The Troubadour in West Hollywood recently set up a Go Fund Me account in order to raise funds for their expenses as they anticipate not being able to reopen until mid-2021 which would financially bankrupt them. LA Music Scene did donate to this worthy cause which raised over $73,000 before the site was closed down.

This same fate is something that every live music venue across the United States is facing right now and they have joined forces with approximately 1,600 other live music venues across the country to create the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) and hire a top of the line lobbying firm to act as mediators to the Washington DC powers that be to secure funding for these financially strapped live venues.

Local band Dirty Honey has done a PSA type of blurb asking for help to carry on the lobbying efforts by Capitol Hill lobbyists on the NIVA’s Instagram account. Dirty Honey is just one of many up and coming local acts to be sidelined during the COVID-19 Pandemic and are definitely working hard to keep their brand out there.

Dirty Honey had played to a sold out crowd at The Troubadour in November 2019 and are feeling this down-time deeply. When it comes to The Troubadour, it is a historic monument to the veracity of Rock N’ Roll. This legendary venue has launched many careers such as Elton John, Jackson Brown, Joni Mitchell, Linda Ronstadt, James Taylor, Tom Waits and Guns N’ Roses played their first show there and were discovered by a David Geffen A&R representative. The Byrds met there at a Monday Open Mic, Bob Dylan came onstage one time to perform an impromptu jam and shortly after that gig he went from “Folk to Folk-Rock.”

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John Lennon made an ass of himself there when he asked a waitress “Do you know who I am?” and she answered “Yes, some asshole with a kotex on your head.”

On May 22, 1999 Johnny Cash did one of his last performances with his wife June Carter Cash. Motley Crue were regulars at The Troubadour in the early ‘80s, a gig that helped to build their local reputation as a “ripping” good band.

In recent years LA Music Scene has seen Rude Awakening, Hey Rosetta, Kongos, Hotei, The Zombies, Dirty Honey to name just a few that the LA Music Scene can actually remember.

More info concerning the NIVA and to make donations go to saveourstages.com. We urge all of you that attend live gigs at local clubs to donate what you can so we have something to entertain all of us music lovers across the country when the local venues reopen.

KRITZERLAND Free June 7 Concert to Benefit The Group Rep Theatre

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KRITZERLAND Free June 7 Concert to Benefit The Group Rep Theatre at Lonny Chapman Theatre

Krizterland’s “June is Bustin’ In All Over” is a free concert of an eclectic mix of songs that are romantic, funny and touching, produced and hosted by Bruce Kimmel, musical direction by Richard Allen with technical expertise by Hartley Powers.  The show benefits NoHo’s Group Rep Theatre at Lonny Chapman Theatre and will be streamed on Sunday, June 7th at 5:00 PM (PST), 8:00 PM (EST) on Facebook and Youtube.

Cast includes Brent Barrett Broadway: West Side Story (Tony), Grand Hotel (Baron), Candide (Max), Chicago (Billy), Annie Get Your Gun (Frank Butler).West End: Grand Hotel (Baron), Kiss Me Kate (Fred); Daniel Thomas Bellusci an LA native, and the 1st place winner of LA’s Next Great Stage Star 2017: Regional: The Fantasticks (Matt) Sierra Madre Playhouse;

Christiane Noll Broadway: Ragtime (Mother), Jekyll & Hyde (Emma), It Ain’t Nothin’ but the Blues. Nat’l: Grease (Sandy), Miss Saigon (Ellen), Urinetown (Hope) City of Angels (Mallory/Avril); Kerry O’Malley Broadway: Into the Woods (Baker’s Wife), White Christmas (Betty), Billy Elliot (Mum), Annie Get Your Gun (Dolly), On a Clear Day (Sharone). TV: Shameless, Boardwalk Empire, etc.  Hartley Powers  Regional: A Carol Christmas (Carol), Avenue Q (Kate Monster/Lucy-the-Slut), The Man Who Came to Dinner (Maggie), Tongue of a Bird (Charlotte/US). Film: Mr. Saturday Night; Sami Staitman Off B’way: The Green Room-A Musical (Anna Kearns). Regional: Welcome to My World (Molly) TGC-Burbank, Singing in the Rain, Cabrillo; L’il Abner LACC; TV: House of Lies, Adrienne Stiefel WestEnd: 1916: The Musical (Bridie), Ol’ Blue Eyes and Friends (Judy Garland). Off B’way/Regional: An American Victory, My Way, Tom Sawyer; Film: Pocahontas (Pocahontas). Robert Yacko Do I Hear a Waltz? (Renato) MTG, Addams Family (Mal) 3-D, Parade (Dorsey) Mark Taper, Company (Paul) w/Carol Burnett, Sunday in the Park with George (George) LA Premiere.

Also featuring Shannon Cudd, Rebecca Curci, Joe Fiordaliso-Riahi, Sam Linkowski, Oliviana Marie, Hadley Miller, Liam Pearce and Mackenzie Wrap.

To view the concert please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/KritzerlandUpstairsatVitellos/

https://www.youtube.com/user/haineshisway/featured?view_as=subscriber

Donations are encouraged for the Group Rep, a 46 year old 501 (c) (3) non-profit small theater in NoHo, CA, at https://thegrouprep.com/show/donations.

“ASTROGLYDE 2020”

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“ASTROGLYDE 2020”

Theater in the NoHo Arts District isn’t going anywhere except online (for the the time being.) So tune in to Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group LIVE from North Hollywood starting Friday, June 5 – Monday, June 22 for their annual “Astroglyde 2020” – their “Epic-Quarentime-Theatre-Spectacular!” Catch All 18 of ZJU’s amazing soliloquies of “Truth, Terror and Titillation” streaming LIVE  for 10 riveting minutes, for 18 consecutive nights at 8:30pm PST and featuring live music from Kevin Van Cott.  

“ASTROGLYDE 2020” Performance Schedule, Friday June 5-Monday, June 22:

Fri 6/5 – “H” – Written & Performed by Elif Savas – Dir. by Zombie Joe

Sat 6/6 – “William” – Written & Performed by Jason Britt – Dir. by Brandon Slezak

Sun 6/7 – “Sunshine” – Written & Performed by Yael Herman – Dir. by Jonica Patella

Mon 6/8 – “The Train on the Girl” – Written & Performed by Elijah Cunnally – Dir. by Denise Devin

Tues 6/9 – “Growing Pains” – Written & Performed by Kimbo Slice – Dir. by Jana Wimer

Wed 6/10 – “A Whore’s Charm” – Written & Performed by Nick Salas – Dir. by John Santo

Thu 6/11 – “A Day Having a Disorder (A.D.H.D.)” – Written & Performed by Eileen Chase – Dir. by John Santo

Fri 6/12 – “Reflect This” – Written & Performed by Warren Hall – Dir. by Jana Wimer

Sat 6/13 – “The Human Apocalypse” – Written & Performed by Brittany DeWeese – Dir. by Michelle Danyn

Sun 6/14 – “Thus Spoke the Motivational Speaker” – Written & Performed by Tommy Lee Kirby – Dir. by Adam Neubauer

Mon 6/15 – “Make Today Count” – Written & Performed by Charlotte Cocker – Dir. by Brandon Slezak

Tues 6/16 – “Adbot” – Written & Performed by Steve Alloway – Dir. by April Littlejohn

Wed 6/17 – “Florida Woman Rebuttal” – Written & Performed by Daisy Donohue – Dir. by Denise Devin

Thurs 6/18 – “The Sullied” – Written & Performed by Kevin Schuck – Dir. by Brandon Slezak

Fri 6/19 – “Time Traveler” – Written & Performed by Liz Mina – Dir. by Zombie Joe

Sat 6/20 – “Mirabilis” – Written & Performed by Jess Sabine – Dir. by Michelle Danyn

Sun 6/21 – “The Beginning of My End” – Written & Performed by Camree Lynn – Dir. by Adam Neubauer

Mon 6/22 – “The Grifter” – Written & Performed by Alex Press – Dir. by Michelle Danyn

Watch LIVE on their STREAMING PLATFORMS:
On FACEBOOK: Zombie Joes Underground Theatre Group at ZJU Theater
On TWITCH @ZombieJoesUnderground
On ZOMBIEJOES.COM

*Donations Welcome thru PayPal: ZombieJoes@ymail.com and Venmo: @zombiejoes


**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

A Hit To Theatres

The spread of the coronavirus has had many customer facing businesses fall on hard times – this may only be extended as social distancing measures remain in place as experts suggest we may see current distancing measures stay around until a vaccine is found, the spells trouble for those who have a lot of people in close proximity and oftentimes cannot survive whilst running at a reduced capacity – but this may not be the only thing putting cinemas and theatres especially at risk as the digital landscape continues to pose a threat.

This is impacting other businesses too – for example the gaming industry is now being heavily taken over by mobile as our smartphones have become multimedia powerhouses – brick and mortar locations struggle to pull in the same numbers they once did which may become more apparent in the coming weeks as here are some non gamstop betting sites that are already operating with sports resuming whilst the physical locations have been prevented from re-opening until July – and recent news has brought a similar fate to theatre as Disney made an announcement that has many concerned.

The ‘Hamilton’ musical was set to see a full theatrical release next year and slated to be extremely successful, however as the Disney+ platform went live, execs said that the focus would now be entirely on the streaming platform – one of the first big casualties to this was the Hamilton release as it was brought forward an entire year for an exclusive digital release only. Despite a little trepidation about seeing himself on the digital release, the main star is fully in support of the move with co-stars suggesting it may help bring a little more joy, but this is still a huge hit to theatre fans around the world.

hamilton

(arstechnica.com)

To stay positive, however, there may be some silver lining to this – with wider exposure and release on a larger digital platform like Disney+, it may bring some attention to what is ultimately a theatrical performance – there many be many who choose to watch this who have never been to theatre or saw a live performance in a similar way which provides a possibility to create a renewed interest and demand in theatre following the coronavirus slowing. Where many other businesses may be looking for an angle to kickstart their recovery once they reopen, this move by Disney may be a silent partner in helping theatre get back to where it needs to be by creating a demand in an entirely new market. 

This change may be slow, however, as mentioned social distancing will still be around for quite some time and it may be unlikely that the majority will be willing to go into a crowded public location until they feel safe to do so, once there is a change a return to normalcy however this one big move could change potential future releases – a stark contrast to what may be happening within cinema as this same shift seems to be what could cause a long and extremely difficult recovery for the box office.

Here’s the NoHo News for May 28

…

NoHo News: LA Weekly Op-Ed. Best of the Fest! Music. Food. Theatre. Dance Studio Guide.


Here’s your NoHo arts community update!  
We look forward to sharing lots of fun and unique news, events, profiles and updates on what’s happening in the NoHo Arts District.

Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>

This issue of NoHo e-News is about what’s going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>

Here’s a glimpse at what’s going on in North Hollywood.

Click on the image and to see the online version of our NoHo News…ENJOY NOHO!

NoHo News: LA Weekly Op-Ed. Best of the Fest! Music. Food. Theatre. Dance Studio Guide. 

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**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

 

How love can help in recovery

In 2014, a writer and journalist Johann Hari published her book “Chasing the Scream” (now bestseller) where she claimed that “the opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, it is connection”.

Nowadays, medical professionals start to reevaluate the approaches to treating substance use disorders. The question “What if everything we know about addiction is wrong?” is voiced more and more often within medical circles. Scientists work towards finding new, more effective methods of treating addiction. And it seems like they discovered the surprising key to recovery.

What Does Modern Science Say?

Love, support, and understanding play a significant role in battling addiction. It can empower a recovering person and motivate them to continue leading a life without poisoning substances.

There may be situations, when you can’t reach a partner, family member, or friend to hear encouraging words. In this case, it can be useful to call addiction hotline anonymously at New Hampshire for example.

The line is accessible all around the clock. It acts as a starting point for addicts who have nobody to ask for help and as an additional source of support and information for those who have already started the journey to a sober life. Whenever you have a substance use related problem and don’t know where to seek help, feel free to call an addiction hotline free in New Hampshire.

Before describing revolutionary findings in detail, we’ll list several studies that prove the benefits of family and couple therapy in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment.

  • SAMHSA’s Treatment Improvement Protocol (2004) cites numerous studies showing that a family-based therapy motivates participation and retention in treatment, reduces the patients’ drug and alcohol use, improves both family and social functioning, and prevents relapse.
  • According to a review “Behavioral Couples Therapy for substance abuse: Rationale, Methods, and Findings” (2004), couples receiving BCT reported greater declines in substance use, higher levels of relationship satisfaction, and improved family functioning in comparison with those who received only individual counseling.
  • The latest study (2020) shows that the involvement of significant others in treatment for SUD reduces substance use and substance-related problems. It increases the chances for long-term sobriety, as the effect was consistent and endured 12-18 months after the end of treatment.

How Can a “Love Molecule” Impact Recovery?

When scientists research the involvement of significant people in recovery from alcohol and drug addiction, they commonly choose love and connection as major denominators. This principle also lies at the core of drug information hotlines New Hampshire, as well as in any other state. People who work at an addiction helpline in New Hampshire make callers understand that they are not worthless and have the power to change everything.

Groundbreaking results of recent studies have shed light on the neurobiology of love and connection and the way it relates to recovery. Experts say that oxytocin – a neurotransmitter in the brain – could open new opportunities in treating addicts and help them avoid relapse. Oxytocin is also called a “love hormone”, a “cuddle hormone”, or a “love molecule”. It is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the hypothalamus.

Oxytocin is best known for its role in female reproduction, as it is released during labor and breastfeeding. It’s also produced during orgasm in both sexes. “Love hormone” is responsible for:

  • strengthening of the attachment bond between a child and parents
  • increasing a feeling of social connection to other people
  • influencing social behavior and emotions
  • reducing stress and anxiety levels.

Professionals that treat people with alcohol or drug addiction are more interested in the next findings: high levels of oxytocin in the brain can decrease the likelihood of developing a SUD, ease cravings and reduce the risks of relapse in individuals recovering from SUDs.

The Relationship Between Oxytocin and Addiction

At first, let’s see how addiction is formed. A person takes a mind-altering substance, and the brain activates pleasurable effects. The user wants to feel euphoria again, and keep using drugs. The brain develops tolerance to the effects and the user starts taking higher doses to reach the same effect or uses the drug of choice more frequently. 

In 2017, researchers at St. George’s University of London reviewed a lot of the published evidence on the oxytocin. And they found that the brain systems involved in drug reward interact with those involved in natural rewards, such as sexual behavior and social bonding. The researchers concluded that the oxytocin system has definitely a key role in mediating several opioid addiction‐related behavioral and neurochemical processes. Thus, it can have potential as the treatment of opioid dependence.

Prolonged use of drugs or alcohol results in the disintegration of the social lives and may lead to isolation. Researches highlighted the role of programs like AA and NA in social rehabilitation and reintegration that keeps recovering addicts abstinent. With the current findings for the pro‐social effects of oxytocin, its use as a “psycho‐biological therapy” for the prevention of relapse to drug‐seeking looks promising.

Oxytocin as a Means to Overcome Drug Cravings

As more data on the functions of oxytocin systems has become available, theories and data on the role of oxytocin in addiction treatment have begun to receive attention. Let’s take methamphetamine addiction as an example. At present, there are no effective pharmacotherapeutics for meth addiction that could suppress cravings and help patients manage them. That’s why the rate of relapse is high.

A group of researchers from the Medical University of South Carolina conducted a study on rats. Oxytocin systematically administered to rats decreased their demand for meth and weakened reinstatement to drug-seeking. Interestingly, these effects were strongest in animals with the greatest motivation to seek methamphetamine. This indicates that oxytocin has potential as a next-generation treatment for addiction.

Of course, there’s a need for more research into possible oxytocin-based therapies. But the mere hypothesis about the potential of love and connection in promoting recovery gives much hope to medical professionals, patients, and people whose partners or family members struggle with substance abuse. If you are battling addiction and feel that you are not strong enough, remember that you can always contact an addiction hotline number in New Hampshire for support and information.

10 All-Time Movies About College and Students

Watching a great movie is one of the best ways to spend your free time.

How to choose a resume format that works for you

An ill-formatted and unorganized resume is useless. What makes a resume format really important is its effectiveness to convey the message to the recruiter. The fact of the matter is that everyone gets anxious before submitting a resume as they have little or no idea about how to write it.

Having no idea about which format works best, people often end-up using the first thing they find on the internet. This is not the correct approach to choosing resume formats. Choosing a resume format that is easy on the eyes is important.

So here is an article to help you identify the best resume format for you:

Readability 

On a regular basis, recruiters have to deal with a huge number of applications. 

If your resume is not 6 seconds worthy, it will probably get tossed aside. Hence, the reliability of your resume is very important.

The resume format should be able to present vital information at a single glance. The readability of resume depends on a few factors: 

  • Font design: Use a professional looking font (e.g. calibri, arial, verdana, etc.). Avoid san serif fonts as they can not be processed by ATS (applicant tracking system) 
  • Font size: The ideal font size for resumes is 10. Though if you have a lot of white space in your resume, you can increase the font size to 12. 
  • Section headings: Appropriately bold and highlight your sections headings to draw attention of the recruiters. And, the font size for section headings should be 14, or 16.
  • Bullets points: Avoid writing information in long paragraphs. Use one-liner bullet points to write information on your resume. Only the professional in your resume should be written in a paragraph form. 

Types of resume format

Generally speaking, there are 3 types of resume formats that you can use to write your resume: 

  • Reverse chronological format: Perhaps, this is one of the most used formats. In this format, you are supposed to write information in a reverse chronology. Let’s say you are writing the professional experience section, so to write your resume in , you need to include the most recent work profile with important achievements then go back to the oldest one. 
  • Functional format: This format is ideal for professionals who have had a similar work profile in their career span. Considering the fact that your responsibilities and contributions were similar across all the profiles, you need to create a separate section to write bullet-points for your important achievements. And, in the professional experience section, you need to just include the profile headers. 
  • Hybrid format: This format is also known as the combination format because it is a combination of reverse chronological and functional format. This format allows you to emphasize equally on skills & accomplishments and recent work experience. You can create a separate section that showcases your accomplishments, and the expertise that is in line with your targeted profile. 

How to choose a resume format based on your work experience

Choosing a resume format that works best for you depends on the number of your work experience. The career stage you are in and the number of years you have worked together decide the resume format you should choose.

Here are the ideal resume formats for the following professionals:

 

  • Fresher: Freshers and recent graduates should use a functional format to write their resume. This format helps you focus on your skills instead of the timeline of your career trajectory.  You should also highlight internships and volunteering experience as much as possible if you are writing a resume for freshers. 
  • Professionals with career gaps: If you are trying to hide your career gaps then you should stick to a functional resume as it emphasizes more your skills and achievements and doesn’t directly showcase your career gaps. However, the combination resume format is the prefered format as it gives equal importance to both your skills and work experience, thus striking the perfect balance.
  • Mid-level & senior professionals: Such professionals should go with a reverse chronological format since recruiters give preference to recent work profiles. 

How to master a resume format

The key to master a format lies in focusing on the major sections that go in a resume. It does not matter which format you choose as long as the content of your resume is articulate and well written. 

As long as you organize the content of your resume under relevant sections, your resume is good to go.

Here are the key sections to include and perfect in a resume: 

  • Header: It contains your personal and contact information
  • Professional summary/objective: This depends on the number of years of experience you have. If you have over 3 years of work experience, write a summary. If you don’t, write an objective. Either way, show how you can be of value to the hiring organization. l. 
  • Key skills: Mention all your core competencies and relevant skills here. If you are from the tech profile, make a subsection within the ‘key skills’ section for your ‘technical skills’.
  • Professional Experience & Internships section: They should highlight your work profiles with key achievements. 
  • Education: List all your degrees here in reverse chronology. 
  • Additional sections: Depending on what information you are trying to include. This section entails extra-curricular, volunteering, languages, etc.

What Makes a Filmmaker…..

A series of interviews with filmmakers from all over the world interviewed by their peers.

We are all so isolated right now, not just in LA, or the US, but everywhere, so it’s worth remembering what connects us as we are forced to remain so far apart.

In our first of a series of interviews with filmmakers, we meet the writer/director/actor David Wilde.  David first got into the business by creating and funding the feature film, “Pasty Faces, twenty years ago.” It was his first film, shot on location in Las Vegas, Nevada and was not a great experience, so much so that David consequentially lost the interest in making films for a while.  “I returned to filmmaking several years later, when the technology gave me more freedom to be creative. I wanted to learn to be a filmmaker from scratch. To learn every  aspect. Making films and on my own terms and to learn inexpensively” David.

He’s since made another three feature films, a seven part crime series, and over twenty shorts over the last few years. He’s currently in development with a couple of budget projects, and is getting ready to shoot Season 2 of his self funded, Glasgow based “Crime Lord” series.

How did a Scottish lad get from the wee town of Paisley, Scotland to the United States to make his first feature film with a fairly significant budget and a cast of unknown talent?

In the year 2000 I met David Wilde, formerly David Paul Baker, when I was cast in my first feature film, Pasty Faces. Twenty years later David Wilde is burning up the formidable fires of filmmaking in Glasgow, Scotland where he is known for his Crime Lord series as far away as North Hollywood, California and I am still acting.  I caught up with David to find out what he’s been up to.

YR

So who is David Wilde and what the heck happened to David Paul Baker?

DW

I had to change my name… when I went on to sign on and ‘David Baker’ was gone.

YR 

What kind of a kid were you growing up? Who is David? Would I play with you on the playground?

DW

I was a very quiet child, I never really talked much till I was 12…

YR

Where were you born? 

DW

It’s a town called Paisley, it’s just outside of Glasgow in Scotland.  Town’s claim to fame, Gerard Butler was born there.

YR

From what I’ve seen your work it’s very gritty, it’s a lot of realism which I really appreciate, what distinguishes your work from others?

DW

I don’t think I have any sort of voice yet.  Because I’ve been working with such low budgets. I don’t feel that l I’ve got a stamp, a vision or a voice. I don’t think I have that yet , so, it’s more to do with characters…they have to be the heart of filmmaking

YR

What would you say that’s the most important quality in a director?

DW

I think the most important thing for a director is to find your voice and find where you belong and go on with that.

YR

What is the thing you’d like to change about Showbiz,  if you could wave a magic wand and change anything about that what would it be?

“…almost like kind of like a punk rock spirit, you can do anything!”

DW

I think what I would try to communicate is for people to wake up to the opportunity, build their sort of brands as filmmakers, creatives and artists…The technology we’ve got today is almost like kind of like a punk rock spirit, you can do anything!…I’ve  had filmmakers say, “Oh, it’s only going to go on Amazon”  what the f*** does that mean! That’s insane!

YR

What is the one mistake filmmakers make? Is it because filmmakers now are lazy or are they wanting fame?

…you got to make mistakes with nobody’s money.’

DW

Some filmmakers will make music videos, make short films and then make a feature.  I’ve never done that. I wrote a script and after 3 years I found these people that funded the script…So actually that was a disadvantage because when I came to shoot the film I didn’t know half the time with the f*** I was doing!…you got to make all your mistakes learn the job, run every aspect of the job…but you got to make mistakes with nobody’s money!”

YR

Okay alright so what makes David Wilde tick?

DW

That’s what I’ve been trying to find out my whole life. I stopped thinking too much about it. I just do more,… I think when you get to a certain age…you know I’m stuck with this there’s no way back!

YR

We met on Pasty Faces which seems like a lifetime ago, can you tell me what you took away from the experience?

DW

There’s a lot of swearing here…l’ll be honest with you…it could sound like I’m being spoiled, but it wasn’t a great experience for me.  It actually stopped me filmmaking.  The  8-year gap that I had was regular jobs…then I started it again, doing these small movies…But today even though I’m fine, a lot of people in jobs look dead behind the f****** eyes.  They’re in a maze, they’re dying on their knees with regret …That you’re still fighting, that’s where filmmaking is the best and acting is creative as well: it’s worth the fight… let’s just keep going because it’s that attainment advantage that the next day you may have that break…

“…I  felt like a fraud, this is too early for me.”

DW

If it means the last 20 years of my life I can make stuff that’s good, I’d rather do that than spend my whole life making crap … I had been trying to be an actor, I only tried to write scripts for a few years and then suddenly I’m finding myself starting my so-called dream and I realized when I got there that I  felt like a fraud, it was too early for me.

 

YR

I really enjoyed speaking to you and I just have to add this because I think that we’re all related in a way in this show business…we’re all connected in some way..So I’m turning everything around and wondering what are the questions you wish I would have asked you?

DW

I’m not just saying this, you asked great questions…but there’s something you ask filmmakers and about acting, is why do we do it? … I think that’s one of the main things because because there’s a million reasons not to be a filmmaker or an actor,…you got to find the reason to do it.

”the worst day on set is better than the best day I ever had at any office job okay!

YR

Do you know what I say?  ”the worst day on set is better than the best day I ever had at any office job okay!

DW

Yeah, yeah,

YR

And that’s why you do it!  It’s been fun talking to you, it’s been great catching up.

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If you are curious about David’s series “Crime Lord,” here is the trailer.

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Both series are available on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Crime-Lord-Episode-Fiction-Bio/dp/B07DFF3JW3/ref=sr_1_1?crid=VTK48BTTFTP1&dchild=1&keywords=crime+lord&qid=1589514443&s=instant-video&sprefix=crime+lord%2Cinstant-video%2C189&sr=1-1

Written by Yvonne Ronceros

Yvonne Ronceros, is an actor in film and television, an Angeleno and USC graduate,

www.imdb.com/name/nm4392812/

IN HONOR OF MEMORIAL DAY: MEN (AND SOME WOMEN) IN WAR

War movies were my father’s favorite genre—mainly World War II movies, but he had been known to view the occasional World War I or Korean War drama.

And since we had the one TV, I subsequently became a fan of them myself. One film I watched quite often with him (due to repeated viewings on NY Channel 9’s Million Dollar Movie) was Sahara, starring Humphrey Bogart trying to lead a small, disparate group of fighting men through the Sahara and imperiled by lack of water, dwindling supplies, internal dissension—and did I neglect to mention the larger German force on their heels?  It remains an entertaining, satisfying and occasionally powerful film—and one of my favorite war films. Yet it’s hard to find it for ‘free’ on Amazon Prime or YouTube, and this is what most of this very subjective article will cover, since it is Memorial Day weekend (or a little past, depending on when you’re reading this) and the name of the game of this article is war films you can stream for free (or thereabouts).

One of my favorite sub-genres within the war film consists of films set in prisoner of war camps (always a far cry from Hogan’s Heroes.).  Billy Wilder’s Stalag 17, in which William Holden won an Oscar for his sterling performance as a cynical, conniving, enterprising POW who finds himself even more ostracized after a suspected betrayal, is available on YouTube. In addition, one can find the lesser-known The Password is Courage, writer-director Andrew Stone’s fact-based saga of the adventures of one Charles Coward (yup, that’s his name, played by Dirk Bogarde) and his efforts to escape his confinement. And while The Great Escape is not on YouTube, it is available for free on Amazon Prime. For many (myself included), it represents the apex of the POW film, complete with determined, sometimes desperate prisoners, individual heroics, and plenty of sacrifice.  It also doesn’t hurt that there is plenty of star power in the form of Steve MacQueen, James Garner, Charles Bronson, Richard Attenborough, and a host of others.

Several World War Two films, especially those made during wartime (and in the case of the British film industry, filmed while the Axis threat was imminent) celebrated the men in uniform. In Which We Serve and The Way Ahead (both on YouTube) are British flag-wavers, but more than that, as each concerns itself with heroism, dignity, and responsibility in time of war. Both also have stirring sequences and poignant vignettes, and are well worth seeing. The Story of G.I. Joe takes a relatively grim, realistic look at men in war from the perspective of the journalist Ernie Pyle (played by Burgess Meredith) and featuring an Oscar-nominated performance (Supporting Actor) from Robert Mitchum as the weary, compassionate Lieutenant. If you’re looking for something a little more theatrical (it was based on a play) and slightly offbeat, you might want to try Counter-attack a 1945 effort starring an effectively understated Paul Muni as a Russian soldier trapped underground with a group of German soldiers—trying to keep them at bay while both eliciting information (and trying not to reveal secrets himself).

Perhaps my favorite kind of war films are those that focus on “the mission,” that difficult task which, if accomplished, can turn the tide of the war. Many are even fact-based, or inspired by actual events. The Heroes of Telemark (found on YouTube) is an exciting tale set in Norway and has its stars Kirk Douglas and Richard Harris forming a rather turbulent alliance (I get they weren’t too crazy about each other off-screen, as well) in order to prevent the Nazis from developing an atomic weapon of their own. The Bridge at Remagen and A Bridge Too Far concern two campaigns centered either around bridges that the Allies wanted to keep standing while the Axis wanted kaput (Remagen), or a bridge that featured in what was ultimately an ill-fated campaign (A Bridge Too Far). Both films feature strong casts, some powerful action sequences, and enough human drama to maintain viewer interest.

Since I’m saving my absolute favorites for the end…well, here they are. The Guns of Navarone (also my father’s favorite, as it was filmed on the Greek island of Rhodes, where he was raised) and Where Eagles Dare, both the work of Alistair MacLean, are perhaps two of the three war films I return to the most. They both deal with commando missions, in which a small, elite group of men penetrate an impregnable fortress in order to wreak havoc and disrupt (in this case) the Nazis and their plans for world domination. Both films are marked by exciting action sequences, some (but not too much) ruminating on both the folly of war and the necessity for someone to carry the burden. And of course, both are anchored by performers in top form: Gregory Peck, David Niven, Anthony Quinn, and Irene Papas in The Guns of Navarone; Richard Burton, Clint Eastwood, Mary Ure (along with Papas, playing an unusually active role for a woman in these kinds of films) in Where Eagles Dare (Both on Amazon Prime for a nominal charge).

Finally, there is Burt Lancaster in The Train. Inspired by events in the waning days of the war, wherein the Nazis were attempting to loot France of its artistic treasures, and the efforts of the Resistance to stop them, it is one of the few war films to seamlessly blend effective action sequences with incisive characterizations and dialogues that don’t merely function as markers. The importance of resistance, the sanctity of human life vs. the importance of art—all these are addressed, with no pat answers given. Paul Scofield is flawless as the Nazi general committed to the notion that art should be owned by those who can appreciate it, while Burt Lancaster is the Resistance fighter who tries to reconcile his notions of right and wrong with the conflicting wishes of those above him. And all those superb action sequences (and Lancaster’s stunt work) were accomplished without the aid of special effects. It’s a must-see—and it’s free for Amazon Prime members.

Soni “Happy To Serve” Single Release

Soni has an absolutely gorgeous voice.  Soulful, heartbreaking, timeless and boy can she tell a story in song.

“Happy to Serve” is the first single of her upcoming EP from Buttercuts Records out of the UK and it tells the story of the struggle to survive as an artist…before you make it.

There’s a rawness to this track, a reality, a power.  It’s about respect, hard work and the strength to keep walking towards your dreams even when the odds are against you and the road keeps getting longer.  Soni’s roots are in London Gospel and her Indian British background gives her a unique perspective to sing her soul out.

“Happy to Serve” is really catchy, a working girl’s anthem, full of gorgeous production, great cello, horns and a brilliant spoken word bridge by Rebel ACA. Soni is based in Huntington Beach, CA, so she’s a local girl, but you can tell her heart is in the UK.  There’s just something about British soul. Maybe I’m biased but there’s beautiful clarity to it and a deep understanding of passion and pain.  I love the EP, “Savage” is actually my favorite track but “Happy to Serve” is a brilliant single. Hope to hear more of this UK/CA soul songstress!!!

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/sonistar

Label: ButterCuts

Musician Names/Instruments:

Soni  – Vocals,

Rebel ACA – Vocals& Production,

French Monkey Wrench – various instruments,

David Rogers – Guitar, keys,

Ben Laidlow – Guitar Keys,

Alex Hamilton – Trumpet

Izzyaustin.- Cello

Producer Name(s): Andrew Oury

Websites : www.buttercuts.co.uk

Instagram: 1111starpower

www.facebook.com/buttercutsrecords

www.buttercuts.co.uk

Switching to e-cigs, good for your healthy and your wallet

There are many reasons e-cigarettes have skyrocketed in popularity; a healthier alternative  to traditional cigarettes, the great tasting flavors, lack of pungent smell and the fact that they are far more socially acceptable than tobacco cigarettes, and the cost. Unlike tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes also have many choices of flavors and techniques.

 

Smoking is not only harmful, but a largely expensive habit. By switching to e-cigarettes, your health will benefit along with your wallet from all the money you will save, especially if you are a pack-a-day smoker.         

At present, e- cigarettes are not subjected to the same high taxes that their tobacco counterparts are, and a “sin tax” doesn’t apply to these devices. This means that there is no price rise and the market value can be competitive without being overpriced.

The major expense of a vape is the initial device. After that, you only need to buy e-liquid, flavors and cartridges. A few drops of e-liquid is equivalent to a whole pack of cigarettes. Within a few months you will notice the difference in your wallet.

There are many types of vape products on the market. Since you want to invest on a device that will last you and save you money in the end, let’s discuss the options.

  1. Starter kits– This device is best for the beginner or the smoker who just gradually want to reduce it because its power is low. It works best with all types of e-liquid, the best among those with the composition of 70% Propylene Glycol (P.G) and 30% Vegetable Glycerine (V.G).                           
  1. Pen-style kits– These have a slightly higher power output ratio than the starter kits. Those who are just bored of starter kits might enjoy this one more, these kits are all the same pen like structure. This product works on two detailed version MTL (mouth to lung) and DTL (direct to lung). 
  1. Pod kits– This version works with both MTL and sub ohmic property, providing you sufficient satisfaction. They are light and easy to use. There are many types to choose from. There are refillable and pre-filled pods. The main difference being refillable allows you to buy the liquid and you fill the pods yourself, giving you more control of the flavor and quantities.  
  1. Vape Mods- This is a high powered vaporizer that offers adjustable temperature, sub ohm functionality and higher vapor production. Not recommended for starters. For those looking to save even more, you can find the Vaptio Cosmo Vape Kit on sale here. This model offers a personalized vaping experience with multiple power options and an innovative airflow adjustment system. 
  1. Sub-ohm kits– A new product, barely just hitting the market now. Sub ohm kits provide a direct to lung vaping experience. It’s absolutely not for the beginner like the previous kits mentioned. The nicotine delivery is relatively faster to your mind than the standard vape. It produces thicker clouds than ordinary kits, much stronger nicotine concentration, and a greater range of kit versions.
  1. Rebuildable / Mechanical mods– These come with almost the same kind of visualization. The acronym “RBA” stands for Re Buildable Atomizers, there are two kinds of these RTA (Rebuildable Tank Atomizers) and RDA (Rebuildable Drip Atomizers). One can build their own coils, the main advantage and smoke it desirebly. Today RBAs are used by professionals who want to tune their vaping to their exact need and those who wish to vape as cheaply as possible.  

These are not for the light smoker and are more complex and hard to work with. This device supplies pure battery power to the atomizer, suitable for the skilled smoker.

  1. Squonk mods– finally, welcome to the new world of squanking,! Squonking is a recently popularized, innovative vaping method, a hybrid design of standard kits and an RDA. It offers the same mechanics as rebuildable  and mechanical mods, but Instead of dripping, squonk mods rely on an internal e-juice with a simple squeeze the e-liquid lets upward to RDA. It’s very easy to use, not as complex as the RBAs.

                  

 

   

                     

Here’s the NoHo News for May 21

…

NoHo News: Best of the Fest! Senior Meals. NoHo Restaurants. Sidewalk Singers. Acting Classes Go Online. Some Music. Save NoHo Theatres.


Here’s your NoHo arts community update!  
We look forward to sharing lots of fun and unique news, events, profiles and updates on what’s happening in the NoHo Arts District.

Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>

This issue of NoHo e-News is about what’s going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>

Here’s a glimpse at what’s going on in North Hollywood.

Click on the image and to see the online version of our NoHo News…ENJOY NOHO!

NoHo News: Best of the Fest! Senior Meals. NoHo Restaurants. Sidewalk Singers. Acting Classes Go Online. Some Music. Save NoHo Theatres. via www.nohoartsdistrict.com 

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**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

 

Puppies Change A lot!

One thing I am constantly amazed at is how FAST puppies change and then change AGAIN around that 2/3 year mark.

Basically their baby, toddler and adolescent years are all balled up in the first 2-3 years of life. This makes life for the owner of the puppy quite the roller coaster and challenging! Let’s go down this bunny trail with the understanding that there are many exceptions of course, but i’m going to keep this short and simple, haha (it’s funny because I rarely keep things short and simple)

You bring home your new puppy 8-12 weeks. They might be driven, but they are still really getting to know the family and YOUR routines so they can take advantage of your weaknesses very soon. They are also feeling very vulnerable and all of the family fawning over the puppy cuteness is making the puppy big headed (to be used against you in the near future) OR feeding into their vulnerability in a bad way (potentially creating anxiety you will deal).
This is also the time for them to learn all of their basics except heeling with distractions.

12-16 weeks old – You may start to see the benefits or the serious fall out to how that first month went because they are now quite comfortable in the home and ready to try some manipulation tactics, do more exploring and are still very much a cute little puppy. This is often when we train pups for board and trains because they can be held more accountable and it’s often the time owenrs have two modes…they want more advanced training or work on common biting issues after they did some basics with their pup OR they desperately need help because they fell into the spoil rotten and gave lots of freedom group, lol. We often start to see some behaviors at this age we don’t love. Puppies might be going through a fear stage at this time and testing out their bark that could be demand barking or from insecurity. Also common for puppies to be getting too much freedom after showing good behavior during that precious, sweet first stage and now the potty issues are WORSE!!! Think three year old toddler running around the house and able to take diapers off.

16-24 weeks is a great stage in my book! I love this stage. Even more accountability for puppies as they really start to hold on to understanding the boundaries I’ve so painstakingly been trying to make stick the first two months. I can now take them in public more around distractions and help them understand expectations in more difficult environments. All of this while they are still cute puppies. They do get REALLY wild at this age though. Basically, if you have had kids, it’s the stage where they can reach door handles easily, sneakily get into things, and have boundless amounts of energy, yet need constant supervision…good luck.

6 months to 1 year old…devil dog. LOL
This age is always hit or miss as far as how it goes, haha! They wildly get into and feed off of EVERYTHING. They have temper tantrums. They test you constantly. You can hold them more accountable, but the second you take eyes off of them they have completely given into their natural instincts to jump 3 fences over to visit the neighbor dog, bark their head off at birds that fly away, clobber the mail man in an attack of kisses (if your lucky) and don’t listen to you unless you are fully focused on them. Super fun right?!?!
This can also be a tricky age where we see SO many dogs start to develop behavioral issues that are more serious. A little bit of barking becomes full blown reactivity, even aggression by 1 year old. A timid dog as a puppy becomes very anti social and growly. Dogs that are more territorial type breeds start to play around with those instincts, often confused how to handle most situations because they need a lot of guidance and structure. If you feel you are drowning in these issues with a young dog…you are not alone.

1 year to 2 years old it can be much of the same as those things that were creeping up a few months earlier become an ingrained habit. You definitely need to seek some guidance if dealing with behavioral issues, but many don’t have to worry so much about that. They rode out a lot of the puppy storm and were lucky their pup is easing into some more adult like attitude of retaining more information, even if you aren’t so consistent. Many dogs just start to settle and mature more and more, while others will worsen if they are not worked with. I know Dakota, the german shepherd in the picture, she sure seemed to change overnight. She started to mature beautifully, while still maintaining a high tolerance for things around her like kids crowding around, playing with other rowdy dogs, dogs barking at her, etc. She was a champ through it all.

Enter the start of adulthood…more change. We have actually seen Dakota get a little less tolerant and we have had to adapt. She no longer has this puppy like happiness with every single thing and able to tolerate lots of stimulation with a smile on her face (metaphorically). She can get more annoyed if she’s been playing with dogs too long and they still want to play. She sometimes has had it with a lot of noise in busier areas and we have started to work with her more on this, though she never minded before, etc. She has become more independent, which has its negatives and positives. My point is just that your puppy is not a puppy for very long. Then, even when they are full grown around a year old they are likely to change more and more so you must continue to work them and have them around different settings and in different situations. You must be in it for the journey. Watching them change and adapting to it. It’s like your kids sometimes. They might drive you up a wall and you might even have some rough years, shed some tears, but it’s part of them growing up, you raising them and you wouldn’t trade the experience for anything in the world as you see them grow into adults. Take those first 21 years and condense them into 2-3 years and that is your puppy. For those unfortunately dealing with serious behavioral issues, have some consideration for what they are going through, because it is likely very different then your own experience with puppies.

-Bethany Wilson

Things to do during Shelter in Place – Read Two Plays a Week.

As we are over two months in shelter in place, many actors ask me, what can I be doing? 

There are many things an actor can do to keep in shape. This month I will repeat a recommendation I give to all my students which is to read a play a week. During this time, how about reading two plays a week.  Why not take this time to expand your horizons as well as be entertained. There are several reasons I recommend this:

First:

 We need to master the format of plays, as we are the ones who will bring life to the words.  By reading plays and film scripts we learn to “get inside” the material, the characters, the conflicts, and the drama.  Only through the experience of reading them again and again and again can we get the feel of material.  It reminds me of the time I was with two architect friends looking over plans of a new style house.  They were so impassioned as they argued, debated, and discussed the issues.  The excitement was enviable.  All I could see on the pages was a bunch a lines and drawings with the various colors of the walls written in black and white. They experienced the building, the landscape, the colors. They could see it, feel it, it was amazing.  We, as the actors must be able to get that feel and be able to translate it from reading words on paper. If you’re new to this, don’t expect this to happen right away. It’s a new form and will take a while. You can even expect to not enjoy it at first.  It was hard for me when I started and I thought that I wasn’t an actor at heart because it was so boring, I actually disliked it at first. Now it’s like eating a great meal.

Second:

It will help us to understand literature and know good writing.  As actors, we need to be well versed in the theatre. By reading a play a week in one year you will have more experience in theatre literature than many actors in this town.  How impressive to be able to quote famous lines from plays and be able to have discussions about the great playwrights.  We are experts in this field. 

Third:

There will times when you will be working with other actors in classes or theatre groups and you will be seeking scenes for scene study, showcases, and productions.  You will have a library of knowledge, and characters that you will want to play, and recommend to fellow actors.  It’s a great compliment to hear or say, “You’d make a great Blanch in “Streetcar”. You will help yourself and your fellow actors.

In a year you will be surprised how much more you know than most actors. It will build confidence and command respect. It will also be a great resource as you move ahead as an actor. Alternate between plays and film scripts if you prefer, but there is nothing like classic literature.

THE EVOLUTION OF CBD HEMP FLOWERS

The evolution of the cannabis industry should not be a surprise when we consider the many health benefits that a lot of people claim CBD has.

Beyond that, the industry has adopted several innovative production options to satisfy the evolving needs of its consumers. Previously, consumers only smoked cannabis products. However, other options like tinctures and CBD oil, etc. have been introduced to the market.

There are more than 80 cannabinoids that can be extracted from a single cannabis plant, however, CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the most common. While the latter is a psychoactive substance, CBD is not. This means that unlike the mind-altering properties of THC, CBD does not alter or impede your mental state. However, the benefits of CBD are both mental and physical.

Initially, THC was the major compound extracted from cannabis plants. At the time, user demand was responsible for this. Initially, most cannabis users used cannabis products to get high. However, as the health benefits of the cannabis plant began coming into the spotlight, manufacturers were then compelled to extract the non-psychoactive counterpart, CBD.

This revolution gave the people who need certain kinds of medical help the opportunity of taking what a lot of people refer to as a magical elixir. The best part is that they do not have to worry about the high feeling that accompanies the absorption of THC. This evolution opens the doors to endless possibilities. For instance, consumers can use CBD hemp flowers before or during work hours without the fear of being mentally impaired. Find more interesting information about CBD hemp flowers here.

THE CONCEPT OF HEMP FLOWER

When you surf the internet, you will see a lot of information attempting to differentiate hemp from marijuana. While some of these attempts are true, both marijuana and hemp are extracted from cannabis plants. However, the growing process of these plants is responsible for the product that can be extracted. A few modifications in the growing process of the cannabis plant allows manufacturers the ability to alter the concentrations of either CBD or THC in the plant.

When the THC concentration of a cannabis plant is high, that plant is commonly called “marijuana”. However, when the THC concentration falls below 0.3 percent, such a plant is often called “hemp”. Sign up to become an affiliate CBD flower marketer now.

While most people consume marijuana for the fun of it, the majority of hemp consumers use hemp flowers to relax or manage other health issues. Hence, in recent times, a lot of hype has been going around about the many health benefits of CBD. Although most CBD hemp flower products are edibles, some consumers prefer smoking it. Hence, the amazing growth of smokable CBD hemp flowers on the market.

BOTTOM LINE

Today, about 40 percent of the cannabis plant extracts is CBD. While there has been little scientific research conducted on the properties of CBD and how it interacts with the human body, there is no denying that the production of CBD hemp flower has been a game-changer for the cannabis industry.

Making It Through Month Three of Stay-At-Home

As Californians continue to remain safe at home, this act helps to decrease the spread of the coronavirus.

Though it is an extremely uncertain time, it’s best to find ways to remain entertained and occupied at home. Still, it can be really challenging for those who are suffering from cabin fever, loneliness, or a bit of both. In order to make it through the third month of the stay-at-home order, consider the following tips.

1. Develop rituals

When you’re stressed out and overwhelmed, you’ll decrease the strength of your immune system. Immune health is paramount during this time. Create rituals that allow you to manage your stress and anxiety. Listen to a motivational podcast or audiobook before you start the day. Drink some chamomile tea, and take a nice, relaxing bubble bath at night. Find a regimen that you can stick to in the morning and in the evening. When you have some consistency in your life, this can lead to feelings of stability and ease.

2. Cultivate a new hobby

One of the best ways to keep your head above water is through remaining occupied. As you remain engaged in different activities, you’ll be able to create, eat less, and rediscover new parts of yourself that you’ve left behind. Color in a coloring book each day. Learn a new makeup technique. Try new gourmet recipes. Start your own blog. Organize your closet. Deep-clean your car. As you cultivate new hobbies and work on different projects around your home, it’ll be harder to wallow in fear and anxiety.

3. Use professional services

This quarantine period is understandably scary. It’s not just scary for those who have contracted the virus. It’s scary for concerned family members and friends. It’s heart-breaking for grieving family members and friends. It’s traumatic for those who’ve lost their jobs. If your mental health is suffering as a result of what’s going on, consider seeking professional help. NoHo residents can access mental health treatment in Santa Barbara via telehealth services. Don’t hesitate to prioritize your mental health. We need you here.

4. Connect through technology

If you miss your family members and friends, hearing their voices can be really beneficial. Pick up the phone to call those you love. Many people are using FaceTime, Google Hangouts, and Zoom conference calls to connect. Use the power of technology to connect with those you love. Even if you and your friend have Zoom on as you both cook dinner, it can feel like you two are spending time together.

5. Exercise

Exercise every single day. Even if it’s just a walk around the neighborhood, allow yourself to move. When you move your body regularly, you’ll strengthen your heart. You’ll also release endorphins when you exercise. Fresh air is also great for your mental health. Even if you don’t want to take a walk in the neighborhood, find a jump rope and some headphones. Jump rope through a few songs to get your heart rate up.

Though this is a challenging time, do your best to try these tactics. As you do your best to stay sane, remember that you’re not alone. Even if you feel like you’re alone, the entire world is in the same position you’re in. As you hunker down, it’s also important to remember that your health is paramount. You don’t want to end up on a ventilator in the ICU because you’ve contracted the virus. Though it might be tempting to go to a friend’s house, you never want to put yourself or others at risk.

An Interview with an Unknown Screenwriter

Meet Lee S., aspiring playwright, screenwriter, and poet.

He is working on his second play, his fourth feature-length screenplay, and his first collection of poems. His five-year plan is to be involved in producing an independent film. So far, his work has been rejected “all over Hollywood and New York” (his words, not ours). Thankfully, he clearly has a sense of humor about it. We emailed Lee some questions and he sent us his insightful answers.

Q: If I may be so forthright, I guess the number one question would be: How do you do it? How do you keep going on?

A: I think the answer is another question: How could I not do it? Sure, the rejection is really discouraging. Some of it is even really really discouraging. But thankfully there’s plenty of it that is just plain ordinary discouraging, without any of the really’s in front of it. But I can’t imagine giving up. I can’t imagine a life without writing.

I was watching a movie the other evening about the life of J.D. Salinger. He faced a lot of rejection before he became a wildly famous and popular author. His writing teacher, Whit Burnett, the famous editor of Story Magazine, told him early on that he needed to decide if he would keep writing if he was never published. I ask myself that same question, and the answer is a resounding yes–both for Salinger and for myself.

Q: What is your favorite Salinger work?

A: The Banafish story is my favorite, but I like everything. I wish there was more.

Q: It’s interesting that you work in the dramatic forms but also the poetic. Have you submitted any of your poems to the little magazines?

A: I have. I have been rejected there, too! I haven’t submitted a ton, though. It can be a very tedious and depressing project.

Q: What is your biggest challenge as a poet?

A: Trying not to sound like Bukowski. I’m kidding, although the struggle is real. I really love poetry. When I’m having a tough time with the other writing, I usually go for a walk and write a poem about it. My collection is going to be called “Writer’s Block Poems.” I think I’m going to self-publish it as an eBook with a print-on-demand option for anybody who wants a physical copy of the book.

Q: What is the most encouraging rejection you’ve received so far?

A: An agent I’ve been sending my screenplays to since the very beginning sent me a really nice email after the last one. She said that I should keep going. She said (and I’m paraphrasing here): “You’re not quite there yet, but I think you might have the talent to get there.” I framed that one.

Q: Do you ever get depressed? What advice would you have for other aspiring authors who find themselves depressed?

A: Of course I do. I’m lucky to have a very supportive network of friends, and we are all kind of in the same boat. We look out for each other. I would say that if you’re going to try to make it as a writer, especially in Hollywood, it doesn’t hurt to talk to someone professional on a regular basis. You can do an internet search for help with depression near Los Angeles if you’re lucky enough to be located here where the action is. Or just search for your local area.

Q: Would you ever consider filming your own screenplay?

A: Absolutely. I have shot a few shorts I need to finish editing so I can upload them to YouTube. Unfortunately, between all the writing at night and working a day job to pay the rent, I find myself short on time to learn all the skills necessary for production–even with an iPhone. But it’s something I very much want to do. I’m looking for people on Craigslist with certain skill sets to help.

Q: Do you have any parting advice for our readers?

A: I’m not sure how much weight the advice from a complete unknown is, but I would say: Keep trying. And good luck to us all!

The Best Sports Films of All Time

Some of the best stories ever told don’t come from the painstakingly crafted scripts of Hollywood film writers. Instead, they come from the triumph and glory of sporting events. People love rooting for the underdog, and sport naturally creates many of these. 

There’s an iconic moment in each sports fan’s life, either of great elation as they witnessed their team’s triumph, or of great sadness when their team came close, but ultimately went home empty-handed.

In Formula 1, this was the 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix when Felipe Massa and his crew thought they’d won the World Championship until Lewis Hamilton gained a place in the final corner earning enough extra points to take the title himself. 

In basketball,l it was the moment when the Toronto Raptors made history as they won the NBA Championship for the first time after beating the Golden State Warriors in 2019. 

Occasionally, these stories get recreated on the big screen as directors attempt to show the emotional and personal side of the story that doesn’t always get seen in sport. Here are some of those great films.

Senna (2010)

Senna doesn’t tell the story of a particular sporting moment, but the story of a peerless sporting genius. Ayrton Senna was a Brazilian Formula 1 driver who died tragically during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. His death left a legacy of improved safety that has kept drivers safe for more than two decades onward. 

Senna won three World Driver’s Championships during his 10 years in the sport. A large part of the film covers his rivalry with the French driver Alain Prost while the two drove for McLaren.

Using TV footage and interviews from the period, the film helps the viewer understand the incredibly tense relationship between the two drivers had and how this boiled over during the 1989 season which eventually saw Senna get disqualified from the penultimate race in Japan, resulting in the championship win for Prost. 

Raging Bull (1980)

It took a lot of persuasion for Martin Scorsese to consider creating a sports film. He has been famously quoted saying “anything with a ball, no good” as well as describing boxing as boring. 

Raging Bull is much more than a sports movie though. It’s a story about men, women, pain, and violence, showing the viewer the many negative consequences of abusive relationships. 

Its boxing scenes are incredibly well done, portraying the disorientation and pain that boxers experience while in the ring. It helps the viewer to understand the sport and how brutal it can be and inspire a true passion for this often underappreciated sport.

The Longest Yard (1974)

The Longest Yard is a sports comedy film that’s set in a prison. It tells the story of a former NFL player who is sentenced to 18 months in prison after stealing a car. When inside, he recruits a team of prisoners to take part in a football game against their guards.

The NFL itself produces incredible stories every year. They capture the imagination of the entire United States as 100 million watch the Super Bowl every winter, and many place bets on it and other NFL games. Yet, The Longest Yard doesn’t touch on the drama of grand championships and instead creates a fictional plot that appeals to a wider audience while still keeping links to the NFL. 

Adam Sandler remade the film in 2005, but it’s best you watch the original instead. 

car

Rush (2013)

Rush is another film about Formula 1, telling the story of the rivalry between James Hunt and Niki Lauda in 1976. Like Senna, Rush was a box office success because it appealed to a wider audience and not just motor racing fans. 

Although it contained recreations of on-track action, it was done in a way that engaged the average user but didn’t frustrate followers of the sport. It’s not surprising since the film was directed by Ron Howard who was also behind Apollo 13 and A Beautiful Mind. 

It perfectly encapsulates the risks that Formula 1 drivers had to take during the 1970s, where fatal collisions were so common they were widely accepted by fans, teams, and officials. In 1976 Niki Lauda was severely injured in a crash that left him badly burned both internally and externally. The film depicts the physical and mental struggle that he went through to make it back into his car and challenge for the title. 

It also shows perfectly the contrast between the two protagonists. Lauda is a quiet, methodical, by-the-book guy, while Hunt is a charming playboy who was only focused on having a good time. 

Rocky (1976)

Rocky is one of the most successful sports films in history. Although it was released in 1976 it remains a popular film and has had a total of 7 sequels, the latest of which was released in 2018. There are also two more planned, with no firm release dates set.

Sylvester Stallone has starred in all of the films, playing Rocky Balboa, an unknown boxer who’s selected to take on a heavyweight world champion. The film is a classic rags to riches story, with Rocky as the underdog. 

The film’s famous scene where Rocky is seen running up the stone steps in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art has become a popular site for tourists who come to recreate the scene for themselves.

There’s even a statue of Rocky positioned to the side of the steps. It was erected in 1982 ahead of the release of Rocky III.

While there are many more sports films that have been released by Hollywood, these films stand out. Their commercial and critical success has come from the fact that they’ve focused on the human elements of their stories and not on the mechanics of victory and loss. 

The many mediocre sports films fall into this trap. Their outcomes can be very predictable, even if they are fictional, and they don’t bring up the emotions associated with a true struggle for victory.

By focusing on human elements, the filmmakers can come up with scripts that help the audience empathise with the characters and develop an attachment that makes them invested in the outcome. These films execute this perfectly. 

Here’s the NoHo News for May 14

…

NoHo News: Senior Meals. NoHo Restaurants. Sidewalk Singers. Acting Classes Go Online. Some Music. Save NoHo Theatres.


Here’s your NoHo arts community update!  
We look forward to sharing lots of fun and unique news, events, profiles and updates on what’s happening in the NoHo Arts District.

Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>

This issue of NoHo e-News is about what’s going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>

Here’s a glimpse at what’s going on in North Hollywood.

Click on the image and to see the online version of our NoHo News…ENJOY NOHO!

NoHo News: Senior Meals. NoHo Restaurants. Sidewalk Singers. Acting Classes Go Online. Some Music. Save NoHo Theatres. 

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**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

 

The Social Distancing Festival | https://www.socialdistancingfestival.com/

Social Distancing is now a term which will forever be woven into the fabric of our lives, and the lives of those old enough to understand the changes COVID-19 has brought to society.

The mandate to stay six feet from one another has challenged us to be more mindful of one’s surroundings (and if you’re like me, it’s also taught me I have zero concept of what a foot looks like in real-life).

During social distancing we’re acutely aware of how our own lives are being impacted, and for many of us that means limiting our access to the visual arts. Yes, this is a beautiful time to plumb the depths of our artistic selves and create create create! Some of us may also feel too much pressure to create with new-found time. Some of us may have had art shows we were showing at that are now cancelled. Some of us may have been exhibiting for the first time in a group or solo show, but that’s been cancelled due to the impact of COVID-19.

The Social Distancing Festival is an online festival and community of individuals which showcases work of artists who were impacted by COVID-19. Launched by playwright Nick Green, The Social Distancing Festival has three goals:

  • To help get beautiful pieces of work out into the world, and to share what projects were cancelled due to COVID-19;
  • To continue feeling community within the arts, regardless of that communal spaces emanates from our personal living rooms;
  • To empower artists to engage and collaborate with others while simultaneously celebrating the works of other artists.

The brainchild of Nick Green came to be since Green had his own new musical production cancelled by COVID-19. While understanding and supportive of the call to cancel the production, Green acknowledged the mix of feelings, being torn between the right thing and personal disappointment. Money, time, and energy had been invested for years in the lead-up, and Green recognized that the arts community felt these same shockwaves.

The Social Distancing Festival project was quick to barn-raise and bring the festival platform to life following widespread COVID-19 lockdown measures globally. In a clever and immersive way, The Social Distancing Festival offers ways for artists to showcase their work which didn’t make it to exhibition because of lockdown measures. The Social Distancing Festival likewise offers and accepts new submissions, since word-of-mouth via internet is a now-reliable way to bring visibility to shows and exhibitions which were cancelled. Green’s online festival even supports live streams, collaboration platforms, a donation center for the arts, and even an online Beer Tent.

There is a lot of heartache that comes with your exhibition or production not coming to fruition after a brick-and-mortar establishment accepted these projects. However, Green shows us precisely what’s heartening about the arts community in trying times: the support, the collaboration, and the never-ending creativity we have in each of us.

The Social distancing Festival: https://www.socialdistancingfestival.com/

To Travel or Not to Travel – Summer 2020

With most states in the USA slowly opening back up in phases to try to return to normal, searches for air travel are now on the rise.

The airline industry admitted it bottomed out in April, so there is only one way to go anyway for them; and that is back up. Whether this will be way back up, or a little back up remains to be seen. TSA is reporting substantial increases in air travel now each week as I write this and many of us are dreaming of a few months this summer to be able to go on some type of trip or two as the specter of Covid-19 returning in a second wave in the fall/winter looms. (And, while heat and humidity have been shown to harm the virus in the lab, researchers at Stanford point out that’s not really the same as real life, so putting all of our bets on a “normal” and risk free summer travel experience is suspect.)

The CDC (Center for Disease Control) states on their website to consider the following risks you might face, depending on what type of travel you are planning:

  • Air travel: Because of how air circulates and is filtered on airplanes, most viruses and other germs do not spread easily on flights. However, there may be a risk of getting COVID-19 on crowded flights if there are other travelers on board with COVID-19.
  • Bus or train travel: Sitting or standing within 6 feet of others for a prolonged period of time can put you at risk of getting or spreading COVID-19.
  • Car travel: The stops you need to make along the way could put you and others in the car with you in close contact with others who could be infected.
  • RV travel: Traveling by RV means you may have to stop less often for food or bathrooms, but RV travelers typically have to stop at RV parks overnight and other public places to get gas and supplies. These stops may put you and those with you in the RV in close contact with others who could be infected.

Airlines are trying to work on making flying safer, including initiatives like requiring face masks and blocking out the middle seat. Some airports, such as Vienna’s, and airlines, such as Emirates, are offering coronavirus testing as a way to facilitate flying and to avoid two-week quarantines. For example, upon arriving to Vienna, you’ll have the option to pay roughly $200 for an instant Covid-19 test instead of quarantining for 2 weeks. But will things like this be enough to ease people’s fears and anxiety of traveling during the pandemic? Probably not for many people.

Until there is a vaccine though, most Americans who are willing to travel will likely stick to domestic travel, if travel at all. There are so many variables that could happen with travelling internationally right now, even for those who are flexible and adventurous types of travelers, these may all be just too much to deal with. Some countries are in self-isolation and may open again to tourists at some point this year while some countries won’t open for tourism until 2021 (Italy being one of the first to announce that they will remain closed for tourists through the end of 2020).

Currently, the US State Department has issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” for international destinations, so planning travel within the USA offers much greater peace of mind for those who do plan on traveling. We have such a big and beautiful country, with so much to see and explore, “America the Beautiful” seems like it will be the travel theme for 2020. Putting some money into domestic local communities and businesses will surely be helpful right now too in our economic recovery. But stay informed because as of the time of writing this, the state of Hawaii requires all tourists arriving to self-quarantine for 2 weeks, and arrests have been made of some “rouge tourists” that have gotten caught breaking that order. Many (not all) states have their own variations of restrictions and rules to follow; for example, if you arrive into Texas from certain airports in California, Connecticut, George, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York and Washington, you’ll have to self-quarantine for 14 days and complete a special form upon arrival. Here’s a good list of all states and countries requiring special protocol for travelling into them during the Covid-19 pandemic: Southwest

The truth is, nobody knows for sure how things will play out for traveling in the age of Covid-19. Especially until a vaccine is approved and distributed. Most airlines have very flexible change and cancel policies nowadays in lieu of the virus, and the DOT (Department of Transportation) is requiring all US-based airlines to give full refunds if the airlines cancel or significantly change flights (a significant change is usually arriving or departing more than 2 hours from the original schedule you booked and/or adding an additional connection to your trip). Having travel insurance is always a good idea, especially now, and you can compare policies at www.insuremytrip.com Finally, most tour operators are offering a very flexible refund and cancel policies as well if you plan to take part in an organized tour with them. (Check what their safety and social distancing policies and procedures will be during the tour.)

Going forward in the age of Covid-19, there is going to be a risk/reward factor to consider with everything we do in our lives until there is a proven effective vaccine. So whether you chose to fly on a plane, rent an RV, take a train, or just stay put; I wish you and your family and friends optimal health and new avenues of opportunity and good fortune in our unprecedented journey forward.

My travel brand, Active World Journeys is planning a 4-5 day small group hiking trip on the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia in August/September 2020 (dates TBA soon). We’ll be staying in full- service lodges each evening in single rooms and masks will be required inside the ground transportation vehicles that pick us up from the trail each day (vehicles will only be half-full to allow for social distancing inside). We will maintain a responsible distance from each other while hiking on the trail and each traveler receives their own hand sanitizer on the first day and will be required to use once an hour while doing activities during the tour where there is no soap and water within easy access. The cancellation policy will be very flexible as to allow 100% refunds right up until 1 week before the start of the tour, and 85% refunds if cancelled within one week of the start date of the program.

Additionally, Active World Journeys is planning another small group domestic tour in summer/fall 2020 to another National Park area, probably Badlands National Park and Mt. Rushmore. Details and registration for these 2020 programs will be available soon. If you’d like to be kept in the loop on these and the re-scheduled Russia Tour (April 2021) and South Africa Safari Adventure (October 2021), you can email me at Jack@ActiveWorldJourneys.com

Cheers,

Jack Witt, MS, CPT
Fitness and Health Coach

Andrew Reed “As a Bird of The Air” Album Release

Andrew Reed built himself a studio in the wilderness on a remote mountaintop to isolate himself for a year.

The result of his introspection and immersion is this his latest album, “As a Bird of the Air.”  It’s a huge album, so clearly Reed has a lot to say once he found his voice!  Soft rock, high energy, 80s influenced rock songs and ballads, touching on themes of love, loss, liberation and release.

Rock albums with this much reverb and production with a very big nod to the big rock bands of the 80s are pretty thin on the ground these days.  What I liked the most about the album was its unadulterated embracing of that classic sound.  Sure, Reed puts his own spin on it, filling it out, twisting it a little when the need arises. But it’s clear his soul lies within the walls of guitars, driving drums and passionate, high octane vocals.

If you like Bon Jovi, Def Leppard and Aerosmith, with songs far more complex and richly wrought than they might first appear, then you would love this album. Reed has sunk his heart and soul into a 13-track extravaganza with mood and message.  His isolation evolution, he says “To me, rock wasn’t meant to be pretty…but desperate, risky and bombastic…where it could go off the rails at any moment…not over-rehearsed or efficient and safe…where one could throw their life away in the moment…” Well, that says it all, doesn’t it!

Musician Names/Instruments: Andrew Reed plays all instruments on this album except drums by Wayne Redden

Producer Name(s): Andrew Reed

Official Website: www.AndrewReedMusic.com

Facebook: @AndrewReedMusic   https://www.facebook.com/AndrewReedMusic/

Twitter: @AndrewReedMusic   https://twitter.com/AndrewReedMusic

Instagram:   @AndrewReedMusic  https://www.instagram.com/andrewreedmusic/?hl=en

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1gLnIMvGKJM0HKbCxICks4

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/andrewreed-1

Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDAcljgsZJzLkADGnQQtldg?view_as=subscriber

Artist Contact Email: Wayne Redden Wayne@multiviewinc.com Micah Taylor micah@multiviewinc.com

Video Links:

The Outlier – Andrew Reed 7-Minute Documentary

https://youtu.be/I1ekVAwK_5U

From the album: As a Bird of the Air…

Strangers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJXlUX51Y4o