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NoHo News: FREE Weekend Fun in NoHo this Summer…and NoHo’s just one mile.

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: FREE Weekend Fun in NoHo this Summer...and NoHo's just one mile. 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.

What’s Yummy at the NoHo Farmers Market?

Did you know that every Saturday, our growing arts district has its very own Farmers Market?

The NoHo Farmers Market has an abundance of fresh, local produce, some delish products and unique vendors.

The NoHo Arts District Farmers Market is a festive, family friendly, open-air marketplace. They are a non-profit organization committed to bringing fresh, locally grown food to the surrounding neighborhood. The Certified Farmers Market (CFM) vendors are at the heart of their market experience. Here you’ll find a variety of fruits and vegetables from California farmers, as well as other foods including breads, nuts, ethnic foods, cheeses, fruit juices and cookies. The new direction for the Farmers Market is to promote healthy living and lifestyle whether it be from our organic fruits and vegetables and teas, to their fresh, wild seafood. The market is working to bring in more organic products to help promote healthy living. Come on by the NoHo Farmers Market and support your local farms and vendors.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bg9SMzblmz5/

Check out some of the vendors below. 

Salsas Poblanas

NOHOFARMERS SalsasPoblanas

Salsas Poblanas is a new vendor at the NoHo Farmers Market known for bringing authentic hispanic flavor to the Valley. Salsa Poblanas makes their salsas Friday night to Saturday morning, making it the freshest salsas in town. They have an array of salsas such as Spicy Avocado, La Diabla, 5 Chilis and they also carry fresh guacamole. Their salsa prices run 1 for $5 or 3 for $12  and their guacamole that runs 1 for $6. Each week they carry over 15 different items, all which our delicious. The NoHo Market’s favorite salsa is the spicy Avocado. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/BkR_Y-4BaTv

Valley Hive

The Valley Hive at the NoHo Farmers Market via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Valley Hive is the NoHo Farmers Market’s local honey vendor and their farm is located right in Chatsworth. They bring in all kinds of honey such as sage, orange blossom, buckwheat, wildflower and alfalfa. They also carry honeycomb and bee pollen, both that help with allergies.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiZ4NopBn1W/

Zen’s Tea House

Zens Tea House at the NoHo Farmers Market via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Zen’s Tea House is by far one of the market’s most favorite vendors. This company has changed the way people see tea. They have formulated their teas to help assist with health concerns such as insomnia, arthritis, anxiety, diabetes, gout, fatigue, weight loss, brain function and cardiovascular health. Their top selling item is their Golden Milk formulated to help with arthritis and inflammation.

They also have eco vessels that people can use to brew tea and keep drinks cold for 36 hours. A great add on with any tea purchase.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BZCOQpMlefj/

They are open rain or shine!

WHEN:

Saturdays 8:30AM – 2:30PM

WHERE:

5331 Bakman Ave.
North Hollywood, CA 91601

INFORMATION:

(818) 314-1312
nohofarmersmarket0513@gmail.com
http://www.northhollywoodfarmersmarket.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.

Greta Van Fleet Rock N’ Roll is not dead

Take me to the river, throw me in and baptize me and if a spaceship happens to stop by please put me on board as I have seen the future and it is…  

Greta Van Fleet delivered the goods as only fresh young talent can do in a big and electrifying way and that was only the first song “Highway Tune” that they opened this sold out Coachella Side Show June 24, 2018 concert with. They really rocked up the place.

This refreshing band of three brothers Josh, Jake and Sam Kiszka and schoolmate Danny Wagner hit all the right notes and gave a legion of rock fans something to believe in…Rock N’ Roll is not dead.

It appears that  Greta Van Fleet are the precursors to a renaissance of the younger generation’s creative juices.

The audience was varied from oldsters to youngsters and they were all happy and rocking in the aisles spreading their infectious energy throughout the tribe that had gathered to hear this amazing band strut their stuff and without a doubt spread the word that the Bardic tradition set forth many centuries ago was alive and well in Greta Van Fleet.
Articulate, creative and educated, this band is the product of careful nurturing and well-traveled road edginess.  Sure their double EP “From The Fires” sounds awesome and is a good enough reason to put them in a strong rotation on one’s iPod, but as I always ask “Are they any good live?”
Leappin’ Lizards Batman, their audience was proof of their due diligence to fancy fretwork and an almost honky-tonk piano with some really progressive sounds.  These guys impressively relate to one another as they go through their paces.

Greta Van Fleet delivered what I consider to be a flawless performance and are deserving of the keys to the city.

As one of the rockers that helped to build this City Of Angels on Rock N’ Roll it is my desire to hand over those keys and hitching my rep to their unstoppable momentum…points included.
There has been a lot of comparison to Led Zeppelin and in some cases angry words, and threats concerning some obscure “secret” organization’s retaliation, for liking this group. What a bunch of malarkey.  Let’s face it friends Led Zeppelin has not written and recorded anything new in decades and they have been pretty clear about their remaining members not wanting to tour as Led Zeppelin again.  There have been lots of remasters released and books published, but nothing new.  Besides, how many times have Led Zeppelin been sued over intellectual property infringement?
Greta Van Fleet has given credit to those that inspired them and Led Zeppelin is on that list of credits.  Led Zeppelin is not the only influence or inspiration that I hear when listening to Greta Van Fleet.  I hear the influence and inspiration of Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton to name just a few.  Greta Van Fleet has taken the Bardic tradition and learned from the masters and have put their own spin on it and I think that Euterpe, Muse of music and lyrics, would agree.  Also, there are only so many notes and chord progressions and that pops up in conversations all of the time.
Because three of their influences are former members of The Yardbirds, it is important to remember they were about musical and technical innovation and pushing the boundaries of standard Rock N’ Roll. At a recent Yardbird concert, I was reminded of that fact as I rocked to their familiar sounds. As an avid rocker, I’ve seen all these guys in concert.
Recently A&R executives and industry insiders have been advising music civilians, avid fans and professionals to listen to the new music coming out ( ie Greta Van Fleet) with open ears and an open mind.  Still others in the business have basically said lead, follow or get out of the way as a change is coming. Most notable in that sector is Leon Luis, Producer & CEO Altar Boy Music USA, Altar Boy Music UK LTD and UK Sync Manager for Jet Pack Artist Ventures. This is all good advice because music is making a turn with a twist and we all must be able to enjoy the ride to the promised land of music revenues.  Greta Van Fleet is leading the pack.
As for the band, they like playing golf while on the road to relax and like shopping in thrift stores while at home and on the road.  If shopping in thrift stores is what provides these “young bucks,” as drummer Wagner describes them, with the needed attire that presents an impressive presence on stage, then so be it.  I was totally amazed and almost fell out of my chair when I heard the drummer pipe up with “rock isn’t just a genre, it’s a lifestyle” when fielding a question from a DJ. This is something I said a few decades ago when writing a dissertation on the nature and character of music and Rock  in particular.  The minute that Wagner took his shirt off during their show, I knew that we had something in common. That is in addition to his peace sign necklace…I also have one.
The Kiszka brothers are Josh, lead singer; Jake, guitar and Sam piano and bass guitar.  Each of the four members has “brought it” to the band and their fledgling effort “Highway Tune” provides an instant insight into this band’s ability to craft a song. Not only is the song a deal maker, it validates that Greta Van Fleet has developed a sound that has a strong backbeat that tends to surround you with their eclectic style.
Interestingly, Wagner has compared himself to The Beatles drummer Ringo Starr in that Ringo had walked into a situation of members already being bonded and so it was with the Kiszka brothers that were already bonded as brothers tend to be.
When the band was queried about how Josh was able to hit such high notes, brother Sam wisecracked that it happened when Josh encountered a snake. One would have to be living under a rock for the past year to not have heard this lively band of brothers plus one, but just in case someone hasn’t I’ll explain a bit of background of these vagabond musicians.
Greta Van Fleet named themselves after an “Elder” woman that lives in their hometown.  The guys describe her as being in her 80s and have recently met up with her.  They have said that her name is Dutch.  Why her name? They heard someone in their family mention her and a light went on. Also, the band has been together since 2012 and have played pizza parlors and biker bars in their Bavarian hometown of Frankenmuth, MI where they played cover tunes which includes Led Zeppelin.
This past year  Greta Van Fleet has been burning up the radio airwaves giving engaging interviews and performing live; been on magazine covers;  are the talk of Coachella, their release “Black Smoke rising” has topped Billboard Magazine’s US Mainstream list for four weeks in September 2017 and have appeared on Carson Daly’s Last Call where they performed “Flower Power.”
Hats off to those that have aided in the development and marketing of this intense band of musicians who have brought back hope for fans of Rock.
*Regrettably, the camera required to shoot photos of this band was unavailable.
When Cyndi Lauper first came out in 1983 I did possess her cassette tape “She’s So Unusual” and gave it a lot of play.  For me “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” was an anthem for that time period.
It is embarrassing for me to admit, but I have never seen Lauper in concert.
Ms. Kinky Boots entered the stage behind a white curtain emblazoned with her facial likeness that revealed her shadow dancing and when the curtain came down, she launched into “I Drove All Night” which set the tone for the rest of her performance…one that gave me goosebumps.
In spite of the fact that she is in her 60s, Lauper can still belt out a tune with passion and clarity. Lauper delivered a wonderfully entering set that got her audience warmed up for the act to follow…Rod Stewart.
The concert’s opening night had been sold out and I was lucky enough to get in. By the time the raspy-voiced Stewart entered the stage, the Hollywood Bowl was packed with hardcore fans that were eager to let Stewart know that they were there and wanted and expected to have a fantastic time.  Stewart made good on that expectation by delivering a strong performance at the ripe old age of 73.  Stewart’s voice is still crooning in it’s unique and raspy way and belting out songs that cross genre boundaries.  Stewart performed songs from his youth and thanked those that were there who still like him as well as going over a few concerts that I attended and the last time I saw him in concert.  Did he read my recent column on him?
Dancing and singing, Stewart’s fans were appreciative of his welcoming demeanor and willingness to hand off the mic to his audience to sing missing words to songs.  Stewart introduced a song about an Irish rebel, Joseph Plunkett, who created an Easter Uprising in 1916 In Ireland.  The “Story of Grace”  tells of Plunkett and Grace Gifford his intended.  Plunkett was caught and sentenced to be executed.  Plunkett asks to marry Gifford before he’s put to death and is granted the right to wed Gifford. It is unsettling to hear this song, but sure tugs at your heartstrings.  From what I understand this song started being performed recently and Stewart told his audience to listen to the song as they had never heard it before.

The Scottish rocker was Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2016 and can now be referred to as Sir Rod Stewart.  The Knighthood was granted for his contributions to music and charities and the honor is called a “CBE.”
****For a set list of either concert please go to setlist.fm.

Attending Your First Wedding This Summer – How to Dress the Part of a Guest

Summer isn’t just known as the season to get outside and enjoy; it’s also known in the industry as wedding season. Summer weddings are always popular, as brides and grooms take advantage of the beautiful weather, natural greenery and colorful flowers, and may even go so far as to hold the ceremony and reception outdoors.

While planning a wedding is certainly a stressful and huge undertaking, attending your first wedding can also cause a bit of stress and anxiety. You want to look the part of a perfect wedding guest but striking that chord can be tricky. If you’ve been invited to your very first wedding this summer, then you’re going to want to read on. These tips can act as your guide as to what to wear as a wedding guest and help ensure that the day is as perfect as the bride and groom envisioned.

Gather Information from the Invite

The wedding invitation doesn’t just provide you with the date and time of the event, it also provides you with all kinds of valuable information that will help you dress appropriately. Take a look at where the ceremony and reception are taking place, what time of day, and be sure to check if there are any details about attire.

Some couples choose to hold a formal wedding, ask their guests to dress in a specific color, or even type of clothing. This will be stated on the invite and it’s up to you to follow through on the instructions.

As for the venue, it will tip you off as to how formal or informal the reception will be. This could make the difference between a stylish summer dress, or a more formal full-length dress. The same goes for the time of day. If the wedding is taking place at lunch and is a luncheon, then chances are high that it is going to be much less formal than a five-course dinner.

When in Doubt Choose a Midi-Length Dress

If the invite doesn’t offer much in terms of information on how to dress, then your best bet is to wear a midi-length dress. Midi length hits just below the knees making it appropriate for any and all occasions. You know that you won’t look under-dressed yet at the same time, it’s not as formal looking as a full-length dress. This length is also comfortable to move around in, and dance in.

Pick Material that is Breathable

When it comes to your attire, it doesn’t matter if you’re going formal or casual, picking a material that is breathable will ensure that you stay cool and comfortable. This is even more important if the ceremony and/or reception will take place outdoors. Cotton blends are excellent for keeping you cool and dry, as is opting for something that isn’t too tight or clingy. Think flowy and loose.

Leave the High Heels for Another Occasion

Weddings typically involve standing and dancing, which means you need to take the comfort of your feet into consideration. While high heels may add a certain elegance to your outfit, the reality is that they probably won’t be comfortable for long. Instead, opt for a low heel or even better, no heel at all. If you’re worried that flats won’t look dressy enough, pick a pair with some sort of embellishments on them.

Accessorize Your Outfit

Perhaps you don’t want to spend a fortune on a brand new outfit, which is perfectly reasonable. Instead, you can accessorize a basic look with some jewelry, great shoes, and the perfect purse. These are also pieces that you can use again, so you know you’ll get your money’s worth.

Add Elegance to Your Look and Get Your Nails Done

If you want to boost the elegance of your look, there is no better way than to get your nails done. A manicure can work to pull a whole outfit together and also provide you with confidence. You can choose to go with something soft and natural like a pale pink or peach, something classic like a French manicure, or you can let your nails be the focus of your outfit and go for a bold bright color.

As an added tip, it’s a good idea to check out various nail salons in advance so you’re sure to pick one that matches your budget and wants. You can check online reviews for nail salons, ask friends for any recommendations they may have, and go visit various salons in person. You’ll want to look for one that is well organized, takes bookings (so you aren’t waiting around), is clean, and has friendly staff.

Leave White for the Bride

Of course, one basic rule that most people are well aware of is to leave white to the bride. No-one wants to be competing with how the bride looks on her special day. As well, if you happen to know the color that the bridesmaids are wearing, basic etiquette suggests avoiding that color too.

Hitting that Perfect Note

By using these simple tips, you’ll be able to figure out what will look appropriate as well as what will be comfortable for you to wear, move around in, and not get too stifling hot. What this means is that you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the wedding from start to finish.

Quick and Easy tips to Update your Kitchen

I’m constantly asked about cost-effective ways to update or freshen up a kitchen.

Since it’s probably the most popular room we have, it should look its best.  Since I am actually in the process of working on my own kitchen, it’s easy to share a few tips I’ve learned along the way.  You don’t always need to break the bank on a kitchen remodel unless you’re completely remodeling the entire space.  Even then, there are ways to be financially efficient.

  1.  Take a look at the cabinets.  Are they in good condition?  If so, they just may need a good cleaning from everyday grime and grease.  If not, consider painting them for a clean, fresh look.  Be sure to take the proper steps in preparing the surface for the best results.
  2. Paint.  Most of us know that painting the walls can give a huge return on our initial investment.  It is one of the most inexpensive ways to update a room.
  3. Hardware.  Try changing the cabinet door and drawer pulls.  With so many styles to choose from, it can be an inexpensive way to create that wow factor.  Subtle changes can really go a long way in updating any space.
  4. Countertops.  If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, why not consider changing the counters.  With the prefabricated slabs, you can really change things up since they are a fraction of the cost of full granite or marble slabs.
  5. Backsplash.  The same goes for the backsplash.  There are many cost-effective options to choose from.

The points listed above are just a few things you can do to update.  There are so many other ways to consider from appliances to flooring to window treatments.  It all depends on the budget and amount of time you may want to invest to offset costs.

Enjoy!

North Hollywood Is Seeding Book Deserts

We always say that “NoHo is only as great as its people.” Meet Douglas and Jean Chadwick.Their mission is providing books to kids to unlock their imagination and lives through literacy.

This Valley Glen couple started a local San Fernando Valley charity in 2013 with a mission of “Seeding Book Deserts.™ In October 2017, they became the Kiwanis Literacy Club of Southern California. This is the first single purpose focused on literacy in the history of Kiwanis International. 

What is Kiwanis Literacy Club of Southern California?

We are a local San Fernando Valley charity started with the passion and understanding of the importance of reading and the power of books. In just over three years our small but mighty team has given away over 55,000 new books to kids and delivered over 70 book boxes and portable libraries.

Our 2018 goal is break 100,000 books and with your help we will get there!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BjkaT-Pg6AK/

Why did you start the Literacy Club?

Why literacy? Because Reading is a Super Power!

• 2/3 of students who cannot read proficiently by the end of 4th grade will end up in jail or on welfare.
• One in four children grow up not knowing how to read.
• Students who don’t read proficiently by the 3rd grade are 4 times likelier to drop out of school.
• In low-income communities, books and educational resources are scarce. Kids start school behind their more affluent peers and never catch up. A record number of kids are growing up in need.
• More than half of U.S. public school students live in low-income households. Public education and programs are deeply underfunded.
• 23 states are spending less on education than before the 2008 recession. Without adequate resources, children cannot learn.
• 79% of fourth graders from low-income households do not read proficiently. The impact of this cycle is staggering.
Sources: http://www.begintoread.com; https://www.dosomething.org; https://firstbook.org 

Because we need to eliminate book deserts throughout our communities. 

Book deserts are where children and families who want and need books, lack access to quality books.

These are prevalent in low-income neighborhoods across the United States.  The lack of access to books in many of our neighborhoods not only makes it difficult for parents to model healthy reading habits for their children, but it also creates barriers for children to maintain literacy in the summer when school is out and literacy programs halt. This is known as “the summer slide.”

Children/students need more than just classic books to become inspired lifelong readers – they need books that will pique their interest, books that will leave them wanting more and that reflect their own experiences.

This is why we created our Be A Book Hero™ service project because we believe reading is the best super power. This project is about getting even more books to kids. Focusing on seeding book deserts, we build our Kiwanis Book Boxes “libraries” which help to remove the barriers to accessing books. The more books we can get into our under-served communities, the more children we have a chance to inspire and lock their imaginations through reading. The more children we can inspire to read for fun, the faster we can eliminate our book deserts.

We believe that investing in literacy is truly the best investment we can make in our future.

Literacy Club via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

How can one volunteer and what’s involved?

We are always looking for volunteers to help:
• Label books for distributions
• Help at distributions where we give away books to kids
• Help with book reading events
• Help with building our Kiwanis Book Boxes
• Help with installing/unveiling libraries

What type of donations do you accept?

• Money
• New or gently used books which can be placed in one of our over 30 book boxes in the L.A. area
• Materials for building our book boxes

For more information on volunteer opportunities contact: Jean Chadwick.
To donate go to: http://theliteracyclub.org/donate/ 


**** 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 Archway Theatre Company Presents “Faustus”

“Faustus” – adapted and directed by Steven Sabel, running from June 29 – July 14 at 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays. 

Classics are always fun for me.  Adapted classics are, quite honestly, not always so much fun.

The Archway Theatre’s interpretation and adaptation of Christoper Marlow’s final masterpiece is, however, regardless of the grimness of the subject matter, undoubtedly an awful lot of classical and devilish fun.

We all know the story. Faustus, a learned and well-thought-of man, who came from nothing, sells his soul to the devil for 24 years of basically whatever he wants.  The trouble is, he already had pretty much whatever he wanted before the deal. He was wealthy, attractive and brilliant. He had the world at his feet so to speak.  But, like many who have everything, he wanted more and the devil was more than willing to bargain with whatever he desired for his soul eternal.  The caveat, of course, being that he must also corrupt others along the way, but Faustus hardly seems to mind that addendum.

And so he runs through his 24 years at quite a pace, raping, swindling, manipulating and becoming more and more debauched, pushing the limits of humanity.  All this in the company of a devil Mephistopheles and the horrible seven sins, brilliantly depicted as vile female devils all sneakily emboldening and goading Faustus on. It’s all very creepy and unholy, which is, of course, the point.

I really couldn’t think of a better place to stage this particular play than a library that was once a chapel at a university at the base of a mountain.

The combined atmosphere of learning and worship is perfect, the words and twisted emotions bounce off the walls and the beautiful, ecclesiastically high ceilings.  The production is ambitious and bold.  This is a hell of a play, pun intended. It requires a good deal of energy and nerve to put on and this production has those in bucket loads.

Faustus has to be one of the biggest roles in the classical bastion.  This play is not only centered around Faustus, but he is on stage for every scene and has a huge curve of emotion and tragedy, while still ultimately being at fault for his own terrible end.  And yet there are some small openings for sympathy in his story I suppose.  He falls for the classic human longing…knowledge. He trades his soul for the mysteries of the universe, and so he is made to do terrible things in order to understand the terribleness of it all.  To feel and to take part in the basest of human kind’s depths in order to truly know them…perhaps not what he had in mind when he made the deal.

It’s typical of course that he regrets his deal at the very last when faced with the horrors of the damned.  He calls out to God and for once he is left unanswered…justice I suppose.  But whatever it is it makes for some amazing theatre. This play also gives opportunities for actors to go deep and go low, which is always so satisfying to watch.

The Archway players do not disappoint. They are absolutely committed and with a play this big you really have to be.  They are all fantastic and leave nothing to chance. Each and every twist, turn, heartbreak and hallucination are met with fearlessness and poise.  Faustus is played by Eric Castro. Usually I do not single out roles and actors but in this case, I feel I must. He was mesmerizing. This is a huge role and Faustus is not a likable guy, which is tough to play. Yet Mr Castro gave him heart, at least heart enough to hate, and soul…at least for as long as the length of the play!

I highly recommend that you gird your loins and see this play. 

It’s not something that is performed very often, which is such a shame as it’s so pivotal in the annals of drama. The string is impeccable, artful and beautiful, the direction masterful. This is not a long run, so please get a move on and get along to the stunning library at The Woodberry University in Burbank. Bring your crucifix…or your rosary…your holy water, whatever you have handy…you may need it.

Running from June 29 – July 14, 8pm Friday & Saturday.

The Woodbury University Library, 7500 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank, CA 91504

Players

Eric Castro, Benjamin Crammer, Abigail Hunt, Masi Hasher, Alex G-Smith, Ari Agbabian, John Eddings, Annie Freeman Sabel, Isabel Fuzaro, Emlee Vassilos, Clare Lahey, Angie Dobson Robbins, Mishelle Fuentes, Nj Ambomisye.

http://www.archwayla.com

Tips To Grow Lovely Indoor Gardens With Limited Space

There are so many people out there that want to start a home vegetable garden but thought there was not enough space available.

This is not something that should restrict you. Technology advanced to the level at which we do not actually need a lot of space for indoor gardens. Many different plants and vegetables can now grow indoors thanks to parts like exapta.com/make-model-planter-drill/john-deere/.

Indoor gardens are great as they can make a room look stunning and you will cut down the grocery bill if you choose some plants that can actually be eaten, allowing you to gain natural ingredients for your cooking experience.

If you want to grow a lovely indoor garden and you do not have much space available, here are some tips to get you started.

Choosing An Appropriate Location

Everything relies around location when you want to do gardening of any kind. In most cases you will want to find locations near windows. If you can, the windows should face south. That is going to guarantee that the plants get the sunlight amounts that are needed. However, in the event that sunlight is not too accessible, grow lights can always be utilized.

Don’t Forget About Weeds

One of the most common mistakes made with indoor gardening is simply forgetting about the fact that weeds can appear. When weeds start to creep in, many gardeners rush to the store and buy weed killers that are not good. Remember that you need to only use organic weed killer for indoor gardens. Also, when you see that unwanted weeds or grasses appear, it is easy to just pull them out. If you are attentive, you can avoid many future problems.

Don’t Forget It Is Your Garden

This is really important since you want to always personalize the garden. You practically want it to look exactly as you want it. Eventually, you will surely become attached to garden appearance but you can always make improvements. If you think that you need to remove some parts or you have to trim them, this is exactly what you have to do. There are no restrictions to what you can and what you cannot do in terms of appearance.

The Importance Of Temperature

The one thing that most people forget about when they grow indoor gardens is that temperature is harder to control. This is because the temperature that is perfect for us may not be the temperature that is ideal for the plants that are planned. Controlling temperature is usually done with the use of shades. However, in many cases this is not enough. Be aware of all the requirements for optimal growth, based on what you are growing. Then, see what devices you might need to use to guarantee proper temperature.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to indoor gardens, restrictions are much lower than what you initially imagined. Have patience and learn all that you can about what you will grow. If you do this, you end up with something that looks stunning and that is quite useful.

ALL MY SONS

The Group Rep presents Arthur Miller’s “All My Sons” at the Lonny Chapman Theatre in the NoHo Arts District.

ALL MY SONS                 

Directed by Linda Alznauer

A gripping and emotion-filled production of Arthur Miller’s ALL MY SONS is on offer Upstairs at the Group Rep at the Lonny Chapman Theatre in North Hollywood, wonderfully directed by Linda Alznauer.

Arthur Miller based ALL MY SONS on a true story in the 1940s of a conspiracy between army officers and an American company to approve defective warplane engines, all the while knowing they could jeopardize the lives of pilots flying over enemy territory during the war.  Two men…one taking the fall, and the other evading responsibility for his actions.  The choices these two men make determine their fate, but also eventually tear apart the families they are trying to protect with devastating consequences. 

LtoR KristinTowers Rowles MikelParraga Wills photoByDougEngalla

Joe Keller (John Wallace Combs) is the patriarch of the Keller family, husband to Kate Keller (Diane Frank) who is denying that her son Larry died three years ago and continues to wait for him to return.  Second son Chris Keller (Mikel Parraga-Wills) struggles with his mother’s denials and his father’s lack of taking responsibility for his past.  Chris and Ann Deever (Kristin Towers-Rowles) are planning to marry.  But there are conflicts here as well, both with Kate’s denials, and Ann’s brother George (Kevin Hoffman) who blames the entire Keller family for his father’s imprisonment.  Neighbors Dr. Jim Bayliss (Bruce Nehlsen), Sue Bayliss (Helen O’Brien), Frank Lubey (Mark Anthony), Lydia Lubey (Shalonda Shaw-Reese), and little boy Bert (Andrew Grigorian) all share in the secrets of the Keller and Deever families.  Very good performances by all the cast, wonderful direction by Linda Alznauer, and, as always, great set by Chris Winfield, et al, as we have come to expect from the Group Rep. 

The American Dream is challenged in this play and leaves us torn between our own ethical standards, and what seems to be an unfortunate choice that we are sometimes faced with when our family’s needs and future are at stake.  The choices we make aren’t always the right ones.

After seeing this play, I thought about how I wanted to go on stage and separate all the families, their anger, and the angst that was tormenting them.  That’s how much I was connected to the play’s writing, but also to the actors depicting these characters.  I wanted to tell them to stop pointing fingers at each other.  Stop denying what was reality.  I wanted them to realize how important it was to listen to each other, not prejudge, not to forego everything you know.  But of course, it is a play.  It isn’t real life.  Sometimes there are similarities that we haven’t forgiven.

Arthur Miller’s ALL MY SONS is a heart-wrenching story and one that should definitely be on your list of MUST-SEES.  It’s a hard-hitting, tough storyline filled with ethical questions, and emotion-filled moments.  A wonderful night of good theatre in North Hollywood.

Enjoy!!!!!!!

Cast:  Mark Anthony, John Wallace Combs, Diane Frank, Andrew Grigorian, Kevin Hoffman, Rudy McCollum, Bruce Nehlsen, Helen O’Brien, Mikel Parraga-Wills, Savannah Schoenecker, Shalonda Shaw-Reese, and Kristin Towers-Rowles.  

Director:  Linda Alznauer

Producers for the Group Rep:  Diane Frank and Linda Alznauer

Stage Manager:  John Ledley

Set Design:  Chris Winfield

Sound Design:  Steve Shaw

Costume Design:  Cheryl Crosland

Production Photography:  Doug Engalla

Public Relations:  Nora Feldman

Graphic Design:  Doug Haverty + Art & Soul Design

The Lonny Chapman Theatre – Second Floor

Upstairs at the Group Rep

10900 Burbank Blvd

North Hollywood, CA 91601

818-763-5990

Tickets:  General Admission:  $20;     Seniors/Students with ID:  $17;

Buy Tickets:  www.thegrouprep.com   or   818-763-5990

Runs:  June 30  –  August 5, 2018

Saturday Matinees at 2 pm;    Sunday Evenings at 7:00 pm;

Talkbacks after Saturday Matinees July 7 and July 21.

NoHo News: FREE NoHo Summer Fun Issue…and NoHo’s just one mile.

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: FREE NoHo Summer Fun Issue...and NoHo's just one mile.

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.

World Kissing Day!

Hey North Hollywood! It’s time to break out the lip balm and Binaca…do they still make that? One of our favorite “holidays” is coming. 

July 6, 2020 is International Kissing Day or World Kissing Day or World Kiss Day. Whatever the name, we kiss today!

The history behind this holiday is a little vague but this is what we could dig up. Supposedly, a marketing savvy dentist in the United Kingdom started this holiday for people to take better care of their teeth. The dentist figured that the more kissing people wanted to do, the more they would be inclined to take care of their teeth. Now, World Kissing Day has spread to more than 60 countries and the message is the same in every one of them: Kissing is good for your body, mind and spirit. Did you know? More than 20 years ago, the United Nations made World Kissing Day an international holiday.

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Kissing has been documented in medical studies as offering the following benefits: From www.bestkisses.com

  1. Those who kiss their partner goodbye each morning live five years longer than those who don’t.
  2. Kissing is great for self-esteem. It makes you feel appreciated and helps your state of mind.
  3. Kissing burns calories, 2-3 calories a minute and can double your metabolic rate. Research claims that three passionate kisses a day (at least lasting 20 seconds each) will cause you to lose an entire extra pound!
  4. Kissing is a known stress-reliever. Passionate kissing relieves tension, reduces negative energy and produces a sense of well being, lowering your cortisol ‘stress’ hormone.
  5. Kissing uses 30 facial muscles and it helps keep the facial muscles tight, preventing baggy cheeks! The tension in the muscles caused by a passionate kiss helps smooth the skin and increases the circulation.
  6. Kissing is good for the heart, as it creates an adrenaline which causes your heart to pump more blood around your body. Frequent kissing has scientifically been proven to stabilize cardiovascular activity, decrease blood pressure and cholesterol.
  7. Those who kiss quite frequently are less likely to suffer from stomach, bladder and blood infections.
  8. During a kiss, natural antibiotics are secreted in the saliva. Also, the saliva contains a type of anesthetic that helps relieve pain.
  9. Kissing reduces anxiety and stops the ‘noise’ in your mind. It increases the levels of oxytocin, an extremely calming hormone that produces a feeling of peace.
  10. The endorphins produced by kissing are 200 times more powerful than morphine. [source]

So NoHo, take this day as your excuse to smooch!

Happy World Kissing Day!
Staff at NoHoArtsDistrict.com

Should You Buy Essays Online?

Custom essay writing is a requesting exercise that calls for authors to be unseemly attitudes in the pre-writing and writing procedures of the exercise.

Journalists that look to accomplish the best of results in essay undertakings must summon their perceptual, research and writing resources in an all around adjusted way that will incontrovertibly demonstrate the development and the transitioning of their examination, writing and basic abilities. Custom writing requests that the author is taught if he or she needs to deal with the multi-tasking approaches that portray the practical custom essay drafting and aggregating methodologies. This is indeed one of the best things to look for.

Before diving into the low down of gathering and putting however planned and gathered thoughts on the essay topic, scholars must make sure that they have plainly understood the topic and have adequately construed the denotations and connotations of the key terms utilized as a part of the essay topic of the thesis proclamation. This empowers scholars to find essay subject into its fitting conceptual and philosophical framework tips. Numerous authors particularly unpracticed students ordinarily waver in the writing of essays because of a wretched absence of comprehension of the characterized necessities of the essay assignment outlined in the thesis articulation. Basic terms to keep an eye out for incorporate the goals like ‘investigate’, ‘study’, ‘depict’, ‘examine’, ‘investigate’, and so forth.

Journalists must comprehend the different prerequisites of custom essay writing assignments inferred by this thesis explanation or essay topic goals. An essay that examinations are undeniably different from the one that depicts. The previous requires a basic presentation of concurrent and disparate points of view while the last requires the outlining and showing of the flow and dimensions of an issue or any question in center without essentially scrutinizing any viewpoints.

Inability to accurately decipher the essay undertaking objectives regularly brings about nuisances like disappointment or inability to get one’s define satisfactory goals and gauges and the effect of disappointment may fall apart into sentiments of dissatisfaction and significant abhor of one’s self.

Three Things That You Should Be Aware of When You Look for Custom Essay Writing

One thing to consider if you are taking a gander at custom essay writing is that eventually, the last work won’t be your own. What’s more, your educator will have the capacity to recognize this since he will know your writing style in light of past assignments and also conversing with other teachers that may show you. Another thing to consider also is that in spite of the fact that the Internet is incredible for things like research and rapidly finding up and coming and significant information, teachers presently know precisely where to take a gander at how to see if or not you counterfeited off of certain Internet destinations including custom essay writing.

Another thing to think about is that if you take the risk and headed paper that isn’t your own however is done by someone else, in spite of the fact that you may sneak past in one occasion, chances are you will be gotten in the long run. That, as well as you will feel remorseful on the grounds that you are getting acknowledgment for work that you, actually, did not do. Another thing to think about is that eventually, you will achieve a point in your scholarly career where doing things like getting custom essay writing done will be relatively incomprehensible in light of the fact that the topic will be further developed.

At last, you have to consider that regardless of whether you get custom essay writing done so you can utilize it as inspiration, you will in any case need to do your own particular research and compose and alter your paper. Regardless of whether you need to fuse thoughts from the paper that you pay for, you will in all likelihood need to modify these too. Eventually, you might do unquestionably work for far little result and you will burn through money on this also.

Conclusion:

At the point when authors get to comprehend the genuine prerequisites of the custom essay errand, they are engaged to conduct applicable and sufficient looks into with a specific end goal to gather all important and related realities and opinions that will empower them to introduce adjusted and professionally explained contentions and viewpoints in the custom essay Writing additionally applies significant requests on the endeavor of an author’s cleaned and prolific writing keenness. The manipulation of dialect in creative, sharp and non-tyrannical speech comes as the core of the genuine custom essay writing exercise. Journalists who neglect to give careful consideration to the parts of presentation risk giving their examination and learning substance a chance to squander away in the sewing of unprofessional and unremarkable reviews. This again should be relied upon to encourage disappointment.

“Tonight’s The Night” @ The Actors Workout Studio

Actors Workout Studio Presents: The Writers Group Production, “Tonight’s The Night”   Running June 29 – July 14, Fridays and Saturdays at 8PM.

The AWS Writers Group has created five new short plays loosely based around the theme of “tonight’s the night,” an alternative title might have been “grabbing the moment by the short and curlies,” if you know what I mean.…

It’s a very clever way of making each and every play perform at its highest pitch right out of the gate. 

We meet the characters in each of these plays at moments in their lives when roads must be taken, choices made and caution thrown to the wind.  Perfect for a bit of drama or a bit of comedy.

These writers have certainly taken the prompt to heart.  A lonely sensitive waitress puts her heart on the line, a couple of slamming poets politicize themselves into a murderous frenzy, two wise guys in a nightclub bond with a broken loser, two veterans shoot the breeze about our desperate world until one of them makes an explosive statement, a suicidal man calls the suicide hotline only to discover their ethos has slightly changed.

They all lead seamlessly into each other, although their approaches are all very different.  The impact is one of constant consideration and thoughtfulness. Nothing is ever quite as we might first imagine, is it? Our first impressions, although important, are never really the same as our last.

If we leave ourselves open to surprise, to change and to maybe even learning something new, how exponentially more magical would our lives become.

I love short plays. They have a tremendous energy and immediacy, like a great record, or a shot of whiskey or a sweet kiss. 

It’s as if with their life so short lived they have nothing to prove.  Short plays are, at their absolute best, honest, sometimes brutally so and daring.  Like those butterflies that only live a day, they are gone before you know it.  But the really good ones live on, they roll around in our heads and refuse to leave.  The lovely people at the AWS always seem to produce these precious and furiously real little plays that do just that.  And the five poignant, funny, thought-provoking and touching plays of “Tonight’s The Night” are still all rolling around in my head and probably will be for quite some time.  Bravo!!

It’s a very ‘short’ run, no pun intended, so don’t dawdle and get your tickets and support this brilliant theatre!

Running June 29 – July 14, Fridays and Saturdays at 8PM.

The Actors Workout Studio, 4735 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, 91602

Executive Produced by: Fran Montano

Produced by: Stacy Ann Raposa

Directed by: Chris Comeau, Conrad Dunn, Bradley Rhone and Dana Schwartz

Written by: Chris Karmiol, Dagney Kerr, Bradley Rhone and Paul Surace

Showcasing the talents of: Tony DeCarlo, Taylor Edwards, Roger Gutierrez, Chris Karmiol, Dagney Kerr, Brian Mayfield, Rachel Parker, Ian Stanley, Paul Surace and Greg Yoder.

Very Independent Filmmaking – Inventing Yourself as a Filmmaker

The first part of any journey is deciding to take it. 

In some sense that can involve a certain amount of bravery, but often that’s a bit of a ruse we tell ourselves.  We all know what is truly brave.  Taking a knee in a stadium surrounded by adversaries is brave, climbing a building to save a child dangling from a balcony is brave, traveling thousands of miles away from everything you have ever known with nothing but your loved ones and a dream of being safe somewhere…anywhere…is brave.

It’s easy to continue on in life with what you are used to. We’ve all been guilty of turning away from our passions.  We call it life, or circumstance or bills or responsibilities, or any number of things in order to give ourselves the excuse to stay comfortable but painfully unfulfilled.  What is it that burns in some people so brightly that they cannot turn away where others can?  I have no idea, but I can tell you that it’s not just chance that those who make a life from their art succeed.  There is always an element of kismet that magically guides our lives, particularly, at least in my own experience, when you stop making excuses and decide to become what you have always wanted to be.  Once you stop struggling against yourself it’s actually surprising sometimes how the universe can suddenly fall in to place around you and how opportunities present themselves to you to help fulfill your goals.  But it does take work.

So how does all this make you a filmmaker?

Well, it doesn’t, at least not overnight, and that in and of itself can help you become one.  I would say that a combination of focus, drive and a very real acceptance that what you create is what will propel you forward and really nothing else,  is what can make you a filmmaker, or actually any kind of creative. So then we have the purpose of this article, to become a filmmaker you actually have to make films…simple.

So how do you make films? The magical answer is…you just do.

There is really no excuse whatsoever to not make films.  No camera?  You have a phone don’t you?  No story? Write one.  No one to help you? You can do it entirely alone.  What do you do with it?  There are about a million festivals, not to mention free online venues…we all know them, no need to list them here, or you could make a few of them and have your own film festival at home with your friends and family.  Primarily what makes you a filmmaker is that you make films, everything else is after the fact.

One of my first pieces of advice on becoming a filmmaker is to watch films…sounds like I’m pointing out the obvious but it’s very easy to go weeks in my ridiculously busy life and not see a film.

I have an old friend, my college Theatre Studies Professor actually, Clive, who has for many, many years watched a film every single day. Wow, are there that many films in the universe? Well I imagine he has watched some more than once, but there really are that many films and he has become something of an encyclopedia of knowledge because of it, which is marvelous!  I’m not suggesting that you attempt this, although it might give you some incentive to spend maybe a weekend watching films, or focussing on one specific genre, or filmmaker, or era when you do sit down to watch.  Whichever way you do it, watch films as a writer reads books, or a painter visits art museums, or a musician listens to music with an ear to learn. Be a student of film, you will learn how to create your own look and in many cases and possibly more importantly, what not to do!!

Inventing yourself has a lot to do with accepting who you are and utilizing what makes you an individual to become your goal.  If you have skills that could be warped into filmmaking skills then fantastic.  Design skills, organizational skills, budgeting skills, physical skills even.  If you are any kind of writer then you can be a screenwriter, you just need to actually do it.  The more you do the more you learn and the more you become.  Walking in the direction of your dreams and living the life you have imagined is really all there is to it…but you have to chose and you have to continue to make that choice on a daily basis…before you know it that choice will become unconscious and habitual and what forges and maintains your career as a filmmaker.

Surrounding yourself with like-minded spirits is extremely helpful.  Create your own tribe, your support group of crazies that are as passionate as you are.  Hold weekly meetings, work on each others projects, go to events, go to the movies, museums, festivals, plays, concerts, the beach…whatever you decide inspires you and keeps you in the world of filmmaking.  I just attended a screening of a pilot entirely created by a woman, Marisa Herrera.  She wrote it, produced and is now promoting it to festivals and studios as a TV series, https://www.seedandspark.com/fund/two-feet-in#updates/15314 . Amazing!!!

But you have to decide….be a decider!!

I have just started a filmmaking group, which is full of amazingly creative people who are beginner filmmakers and inspire me every day.  This Saturday I am attending a meetup event with The Los Angeles Post Production Group, http://lappg.com with screenings, mixer, film tech demos and an open bar…awesome.  In LA there are always things happening around the film business and many of them are available to anyone.  It’s worth looking on the Women in Film site, https://womeninfilm.org as well as the AFI site, https://www.afi.com and the Sundance site, http://www.sundance.org/#/ who offer all kinds of events and workshops that you can attend.  Screenings are everywhere and not just through SAG/AFTRA or organizations you have to members of.  Although I do love the KCRW screenings…https://www.kcrw.com and that membership is as cheap as chips!!

So, there you have it. No excuses to not become a filmmaker and wallow in the bliss of being who you really want to be. We are in the city of lights, where magic hour is every hour and there’s a story around every corner…not to mention a free location.  So grab a camera and make a film…

Little Bonfires @ Gallery 800 in NoHo, North Hollywood

Some days it feels like Lankershim is in the process of converting all of its furniture stores to fun bars and new Ha Ha Café locations, but at least one building façade has stayed consistent: the Historic Lankershim Arts Center.

I’ve been to numerous plays held at the Lankershim Arts Center, and I’ve always spent my entire intermission time browsing the artworks in Gallery 800.  Little Bonfires is a mixed media exhibition at Gallery 800 which features the artwork created from over 30 artists who are also guild members. By day, these artists masquerade as Production Designers, Art Directors, Artists, Illustrators, and Set Designers. While Little Bonfires is an entry-exclusive exhibition, the space itself of the Lankershim Arts Center is anything but pretentious. On opening night, April 28, 2018, and every other time I’ve been to Gallery 800, the space feels like a living room of a homey and well-cultured domicile that’s been in the neighborhood for generations.

The art in Gallery 800 has never seemed to have been tired together by any thread, other than that of quality. So I was happy to hear that Little Bonfires features over 30 artists in the entertainment industry. The industry is the thread that weaves this special exhibition together, and in a city where prominent film actresses and actors have moved from the big screen to dominating television, I often wonder when more spaces in the art world in LA will reflect the many talents of people in entertainment. Gallery 800 might be the local start to a wider trend for an industry/art crossover.

While names like Brian Eatwell, John V. Cartwright, and Angela Cartwright are big names in the industry, the beautiful thing is that these artists showcase their preponderance for the visual arts, and the Gallery 800 artwork stands alone from their names. It’s not until you get close to these striking and truly well done pieces of art, do you realize you know the name of the artist already.

Gallery 800 is a smart, homey, local gallery that’s survived with the fusion of a theater and an art space. Little Bonfires inverts this paradigm to internalize its usual ‘players’ in the space, and to provide them with another platform of expression.

Gallery:                                  Art Director’s Guild Gallery 800

Exhibition:                             “Little Bonfires (In Boundaried Spaces)”

Artists:                                    Brian Eatwell, John V. Cartwright, Angela Cartwright, Christine Bingham, Katie Bode, Chris Brandt, Francisco Del Mar, Thomas DeVoss, Pierre Dotman, Barbara Dunphy, Bridget Duffy, James Faulkner, Thomas Frohling, Pete Graziano, Robert Kalafut, Cathie Koon, Kenneth Larson, Cesar Lemus, Krystyna Loboda, Kim Lyons, Barbara Mesney, Robin McCarthy, John Moffitt, Dan Ouellette, Stasys Pinkus, Rhea Rebbe, Roberto Rios, May Routh, Jeff Skrimstad, Catherine Wall and Martin Whist.

Location:                                Gallery 800 at the Historic Lankershim Arts Center

5108 Lankershim Blvd.

North Hollywood, CA 91601

Here’s How You Can Reduce Vehicle Running Costs

There are different things that you naturally think about when you buy a vehicle, like purchase price.

However, everyday running costs are rarely considered. This can lead to the unwanted situation in which you spend so much more than you expected every single month. Running costs for many vehicles tend to snowball. The good news is that you can reduce these costs. Here are recommendations by Pickering’s Auto in Lakewood, CO about reducing vehicle running costs as you look at fuel, servicing, tires and insurance.

Reducing Insurance Costs

  • Choose a right coverage level – Always look through considered policies so you do not pay for something that is not needed.
  • Yearly review policies – Do not just renew current insurances. You might find something cheaper somewhere else.
  • Analyze excess – Is the excess level suitable for you?
  • Update policies when necessary – If there are circumstances that change, you most likely need to also change the insurance policy.

Tires

  • Choose the appropriate tires – Do you need those high-performance tires every single day you drive through the city? Saving money by using ordinary tires is something that has to be considered.
  • Always keep tires inflated – Checking tire pressure guarantees that tires are appropriately used for the vehicle and for current driving conditions. This also improves fuel economy.
  • Replace tires whenever needed – This can seem to be a costly task but if the tires are unsafe, you are exposed to really serious implications in regards to safety.
  • Always have wheels aligned – This should be done whenever you service the vehicle. Fuel economy is improved when tires are properly aligned.

Servicing

  • Shop Around – Car makers capped the price serving scheme so budgeting the ongoing costs is easier. Choose the car you buy based on servicing scheme offered. This helps since it can bring in quite serious savings.
  • Never Skip Required Services – This is something you should always do. Under-servicing a vehicle saves money but only for a short term. On the long run you do end up paying a lot more since mechanical issues that start small eventually become really big. The car also runs so much more efficiently if it is regularly serviced.

Information Counts

Always be informed about what vehicle service is all about. The provider needs to charge just for what is done. If you are charged for unnecessary additional services, you need to look for another shop.

Fuel

  • Be careful with driving style – This is necessary since how you drive will reduce or increase fuel consumption. Try to be conservative after you start driving since the engine will warm up and gently accelerate from complete stops in order to avoid really lengthy idling periods. Fuel usage is highly reduced when you do this.

To sum up, when you minimize costs associated with what was mentioned above, vehicle running costs are drastically reduced. It is something that you do want to take into account since all the money you save can be used for something else. Also, never forget about overall fuel consumption based on car make and model, which is not something you can actually influence.

Easy Tips for Getting in Shape This Summer Even If You Haven’t Started Yet

 

We are smack dab in the middle of the most clothing-optional time of the year.

The hot weather means beaches, barbecues, and showing off a little more skin than you usually do. Of course, you might be like a lot of people in the world who aren’t too thrilled by the prospect of exposing more of their body than they must, perhaps because of a few extra pounds that you’ve put on here or there. You might think that it’s far too late for you to do anything in terms of diet or exercise that will make a big difference in the way you look for the remainder of the summer. But you’d be surprised at how much just a few little tweaks here and there can change your appearance for the better, even in the short term.

The defeatist point of view, that there isn’t really any point in starting a workout or diet program now, is the one strategy that is sure to fail. Although everybody is different, most human bodies will respond to stimuli almost immediately, giving you the opportunity to immediately make an impact by cutting down on certain foods or ramping up your exercise routine. Maybe you can even do something on the cosmetic side, such as microblading, that will have an immediately have an impact on the way you look. And, if nothing else, eating right and exercising will certainly have that same kind of impact on the way you feel, which will lead to an enjoyable summer no matter what.

  1. 1. Change It Up

Have you reached a point in your exercise routine where you feel like you’re just not getting any results? That could be because you’ve reached a plateau, which is a common occurrence for those trying to lose weight or burn fat. The best way to correct that situation is to dive into a new routine. Such a maneuver puts a kind of shock into the system for your body and stimulates your metabolism, often leading to quick, visible results in how you look.

  1. Cut It Out

You might think you’re eating right most of the time, but almost everyone has a little indulgence that they include every day that could be cut out without much effort. Cutting out that one soft drink, the cookies after the meal, or the late-night potato chips, should immediately produce a tangible effect in your body.

  1. Flatter Your Body

Often people who are in otherwise good physical condition harm their look by wearing clothes that don’t fit them properly. Wearing clothes that are too loose can hide any musculature. Tight-fitting clothes can make a person seem overweight. Changing up the wardrobe is a surefire way to get that summer look that you want almost overnight.

Don’t sweat it if you’re not yet at your ideal beach-body weight. Make changes now and you’re bound to see results when the sun is still strong in the sky.

NoHo Artwalk is Expanding!

Get ready, the second Saturdays of the month is NoHo ArtWalk time and it’s expanded! Next artwalk are Saturday, July 14 and August 11 from 4-8PM.

Remember the www.nohoartsdistrict.com unofficial motto is: “NoHo is only as great as its people.”

We appreciate our local community groups’ efforts to create, support and highlight the arts in our growing arts district. We’d like to introduce you to the folks at EMX who organize the monthly NoHo ArtWalk.

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Tell us more about the expanded NoHo ArtWalk.

The NoHo ArtWalk+ is an expansion of the NoHo ArtWalk (2nd Saturdays) that is happening with help from a grant from the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs. It’s located at the NoHo Plaza and expands on Lankershim Blvd. to Weddington.

The NoHo ArtWalk+ expansion includes:
• 20 visual artists showcasing their work in the NoHo Plaza
• + a Dance Battle (break-dancers, pop-lockers, etc.) hosted by ActivateLA & TooDopeBreakers
• + a 2nd stage featuring DJs and a sound-stage produced by Noise Revolt
• + a showcase of student artists from the Art Institute of CA
• + a 3rd visual artist section featuring visual artists hosted by Space Brains (a collective that organizes art & DJ events in Pomona)
• + promotional help from NoHoArtsDistrict.com, Artillery magazine, KXLU & Mystic Pete, and KCRW

NoHo Artwalk is Expanding via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Why did you decide to expand the NoHo Artwalk?

The NoHo ArtWalk had such demand that we needed more room to showcase the artists that wanted to be a part of our monthly event on 2nd Saturdays. North Hollywood is home to so many visual and performing artists that we wanted to expand the NoHo ArtWalk to create more opportunities for exposure to help showcase the art that comes from this area and its partners and friends.

How can a local artist participate?

All artists in the surrounding area can participate by completing our Visual Artist Application and contacting us at: nohoartwalk.la@gmail.com

Visual Artist Application>>

We welcome visual artists from Los Angeles. EMX is creating a circuit of events from Los Angeles County to Orange County to showcase local artists. Expanding the NoHo ArtWalk will provide the opportunity to find sponsors, partners, and donors that will help the event be self-sufficient. We plan to create an additional ArtWalk in Orange County by the end of the Summer so that artists can have two ArtWalks to showcase their work at each month. EMX aims to provide support and resources for the electronic music industry and the visual artists that we work with at our events.

NoHo Artwalk is Expanding via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Is there something you’d like to highlight?

If you would like to donate to the NoHo ArtWalk expansion and help create more ArtWalks and opportunities for visual artists, performance artists and DJs to showcase their work please donate here: https://paypal.me/pools/c/84AHTvvV6g

NoHo ArtWalk  FACEBOOK  |  INSTAGRAM

EMX  FACEBOOK  |  INSTAGRAM

NoHo Artwalk is Expanding via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

**** 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. 

 

NoHo News: NoHo Summer Issue…and NoHo’s just one mile.

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: NoHo Summer Issue...and NoHo's just one mile. June 28 2018 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.

Creating an Investment Portfolio

You’ve identified your goals and done some basic research. 

You understand the difference between a stock and a bond. But how do you actually go about creating an investment portfolio? What specific investments are right for you? What resources are out there to help you with investment decisions? Do you need a financial professional to help you get started?

A good investment portfolio will spread your risk

It is an almost universally accepted concept that most portfolios should include a mix of investments, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investment vehicles. A portfolio should also be balanced. That is, the portfolio should contain investments with varying levels and types of risk to help minimize the overall impact if one of the portfolio holdings declines significantly.

Many investors make the mistake of putting all their eggs in one basket. For example, if you invest in one stock, and that stock goes through the roof, a fortune can be made. On the other hand, that stock can lose all its value, resulting in a total loss of your investment. Spreading your investment over multiple asset classes should help reduce your risk of losing your entire investment. However, remember that there is no guarantee that any investment strategy will be successful and that all investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal.

Asset allocation: How many eggs in which baskets?

Asset allocation is one of the first steps in creating a diversified investment portfolio. Asset allocation means deciding how your investment dollars should be allocated among broad investment classes, such as stocks, bonds, and cash alternatives. Rather than focusing on individual investments (such as which company’s stock to buy), asset allocation approaches diversification from a more general viewpoint. For example, what percentage of your portfolio should be in stocks? The underlying principle is that different classes of investments have shown different rates of return and levels of price volatility over time. Also, since different asset classes often respond differently to the same news, your stocks may go down while your bonds go up, or vice versa. Though neither diversification nor asset allocation can guarantee a profit or ensure against a potential loss, diversifying your investments over various asset classes can help you try to minimize volatility and maximize potential return.

So, how do you choose the mix that’s right for you? Countless resources are available to assist you, including interactive tools and sample allocation models. Most of these take into account a number of variables in suggesting an asset allocation strategy. Some of those factors are objective (e.g., your age, your financial resources, your time frame for investing, and your investment objectives). Others are more subjective, such as your tolerance for risk or your outlook on the economy. A financial professional can help you tailor an allocation mix to your needs.

More on diversification

Diversification isn’t limited to asset allocation, either. Even within an investment class, different investments may offer different levels of volatility and potential return. For example, with the stock portion of your portfolio, you might choose to balance higher-volatility stocks with those that have historically been more stable (though past performance is no guarantee of future results).

Because most mutual funds invest in dozens to hundreds of securities, including stocks, bonds, or other investment vehicles, purchasing shares in a mutual fund reduces your exposure to any one security. In addition to instant diversification, if the fund is actively managed, you get the benefit of a professional money manager making investment decisions on your behalf.

Note: Before investing in a mutual fund, carefully consider its investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses, which are outlined in the prospectus that is available from the fund. Obtain and read a fund’s prospectus carefully before investing.

Choose investments that match your tolerance for risk

Your tolerance for risk is affected by several factors, including your objectives and goals, timeline(s) for using this money, life stage, personality, knowledge, other financial resources, and investment experience. You’ll want to choose a mix of investments that have the potential to provide the highest possible return at the level of risk you feel comfortable with on an ongoing basis.

For that reason, an investment professional will normally ask you questions so that he or she can gauge your risk tolerance and then tailor a portfolio to your risk profile.

Investment professionals and advisors

A wealth of investment information is available if you want to do your own research before making investment decisions. However, many people aren’t comfortable sifting through balance sheets, profit-and-loss statements, and performance reports. Others just don’t have the time, energy, or desire to do the kind of thorough analysis that marks a smart investor.

For these people, an investment advisor or professional can be invaluable. Investment advisors and professionals generally fall into three groups: stockbrokers, professional money managers, and financial planners. In choosing a financial professional, consider his or her legal responsibilities in selecting securities for you, how the individual or firm is compensated for its services, and whether an individual’s qualifications and experience are well suited to your needs. Ask friends, family and co-workers if they can recommend professionals whom they have used and worked with well. Ask for references, and check with local and federal regulatory agencies to find out whether there have been any customer complaints or disciplinary actions against an individual in the past. Consider how well an individual listens to your goals, objectives and concerns.

Stockbrokers

Stockbrokers work for brokerage houses, generally on commission. Though any investment recommendations they make are required by the SEC to be suitable for you as an investor, a broker may or may not be able to put together an overall financial plan for you, depending on his or her training and accreditation. Verify that an individual broker has the requisite skill and knowledge to assist you in your investment decisions.

Professional money managers

Professional money managers were once available only for extremely high net-worth individuals. But that has changed a bit now that competition for investment dollars has grown so much, due in part to the proliferation of discount brokers on the Internet. Now, many professional money managers have considerably lowered their initial investment requirements in an effort to attract more clients.

A professional money manager designs an investment portfolio tailored to the client’s investment objectives. Fees are usually based on a sliding scale as a percentage of assets under management — the more in the account, the lower the percentage you are charged. Management fees and expenses can vary widely among managers, and all fees and charges should be fully disclosed.

Financial planners

A financial planner can help you set financial goals and develop and help implement an appropriate financial plan that manages all aspects of your financial picture, including investing, retirement planning, estate planning, and protection planning. Ideally, a financial planner looks at your finances as an interrelated whole. Because anyone can call himself or herself a financial planner without being educated or licensed in the area, you should choose a financial planner carefully. Make sure you understand the kind of services the planner will provide you and what his or her qualifications are. Look for a financial planner with one or more of the following credentials:

  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™(CFP®)
  • Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) and Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®)
  • Accredited Personal Financial Specialist (PFS)
  • Registered Financial Consultant® (RFC®)
  • Registered Investment Advisor (RIA)

Financial planners can be either fee based or commission based, so make sure you understand how a planner is compensated. As with any financial professional, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the person you’re considering is a good fit for you and your objectives.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. does not provide investment, tax, legal, or retirement advice or recommendations. The information presented here is not specific to any individual’s personal circumstances.

To the extent that this material concerns tax matters, it is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by a taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed by law. Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.

These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable — we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.

 

Securities offered through LPL Financial Member FINRA/SIPC

The Importance Of Attending Accredited Interior Design Programs

Now you can find numerous interior design programs that are offered by specialty schools, online programs and colleges.

It does become a little complicated to choose an appropriate school. In most cases the really important factor is convenience. This means that the school needs to be in a school that is easily accessible, offering a schedule that would fit the lifestyle of the student. This is definitely a basic requirement that does need to be considered but besides it, you also want to think about accreditation. The higher education architecture firms will always be better for those that are interested in this career path.

In the US the general accreditation is given by universities and colleges through 2 national organizations, Council For Higher Education Accreditation and US Department of Education. The organizations mentioned are divided into specific regional agencies. We also have some accrediting organizations that focus on a specialty, like DETC (Distance Education and Training Council) that are officially recognized by both national organizations, which offer lists of the fully legitimate accrediting organizations.

One of the most important reasons why general education accreditation is vital is that the degrees earned at college with accreditation through the regional organizations will be officially recognized by other agencies. Through accreditation you make sure you are fully eligible for grants or student loans while employers could even offer some tuition assistance.

The students that are attending the accredited programs can transfer credits if they decide to change schools. Also, accreditation will guarantee that schools provide educational results, counseling, admission, placement and many other services in an appropriate way.

There are also different interior design programs that offer specialty accreditation. Schools that do not have this accreditation can offer a proper interior design introduction but the specialty program will offer a much higher comprehensive foundation for interior design students.

In Canada and the US the interior design programs can be accredited by Council for Interior Design Accreditation, which is a non-profit organization that is responsible for developing interior design education guidelines. This Council is updating and reviewing accreditation standards every single year. The council members are educators, designers and public members that do work with interior designers.

Accreditation applying is quite voluntary. In order to apply the school has to submit a specific self-study of the faculty and the offered programs. The next step is having an experts team that will visit the school and will perform the necessary program offerings review, together with checking staff credentials. Schools that meet requirements receive accreditation.

Aspiring interior designers need to seriously consider attending just accredited schools. In order to be licensed, in many US states, designers need to go through certification exams that are held by the US National Council of Interior Design Qualification. The accredited schools are those that are currently offering the needed foundation in order to take such exams and fully guarantee students are studying exactly the necessary coursework in order to take the licensing exams after the graduation. Being accredited as an interior designer drastically increases the possibility of getting employment.

Experience NoHo Plaza: Yep, Music + Dance in the Alley!

Mark your calendars for Friday nights in NoHo. Experience NoHo Plaza is back July 13 – August 3, 2018!

Yeah, so what if we sing, dance and make music and art in an alley in NoHo?

So Fridays this summer we will dance, sing and make music in the NoHo Plaza, aka NoHo Alley. Art in an alley? Why yes. We squeeze every ounce of possible space in NoHo to have fun. So get ready for Experience NoHo Plaza 2018 – So Fridays this summer we will dance, sing and make music in the NoHo Plaza, aka NoHo Alley. Art in an alley? Why yes. We squeeze every ounce of possible space in NoHo to have fun. So get ready for Experience NoHo Plaza 2018 – NoHo’s Free Summer Entertainment Series featuring eclectic drum circles, old school 90s grooves to a handpicked playlist of throwback jams, Rocksteady and Traditional Ska Music from a 7-Piece Band of Hooligans and Salsa classes and dance party to a live orchestra. All free, all fun.

LINEUP
July 13th – Drumming Circle -World Groove Ensemble – NoHo Drumming Circle
July 20th – Old School Skinny – 90s House Party Cardio Groove Dance Class
July 27th – The Steady 45s – Rocksteady and Traditional Ska Music from a 7-Piece Band of Hooligans
August 3rd – Alejandro Sol – Orchestra Son Cache – Live Music & Salsa Dance Class

See the full lineup>>

The first question we always get is where is this NoHo Plaza? Well, the easiest way to describe it is: the green alley on Lankershim near Magnolia.

WHERE:

NoHo Plaza Located between 5223 & 5225 Lankershim Blvd. (the green alleyway on Lankershim 1/2 block north of Magnolia)

Experience NoHo Plaza 2017 www.nohoartsdistrict.com/nohoplaza

WHEN:

Fridayss
July 13 – August 3
Shows from 7:30 – 9PM

COST: FREE!

The Series is produced by the NoHo Business Improvement District (NoHo BID)  and Councilman Paul Krekorian’s office with talent coordination by nohoartsdistrict.com.


“Experience NoHo Plaza 2018 – NoHo’s Free Summer Entertainment Series is made possible in part by a grant from the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and with the support of Community Partners.”

communitypartners logo notag         dca.logo bw

**** 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.

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The working dog brain vs the family dog brain.

We get so many different personalities of dogs at Ruff Beginnings Rehab.

It’s really a joy for us to see how diverse dogs are with personality and breed traits.  What we seem to see the most, as far as clients struggling with their dogs, are those strong breed characteristics overwhelming the dogs’ state of mind and as a result, damaging the owner’s quality of life with their dog.  The main differences I’m talking about is the pet dog brain vs the working dog brain.

Now there is a lot of crossover of course, but just to keep it simple, here are a few examples.

  • Border Collies-They have high levels of sensitivity to movement and sound and have energy for days.
  • Pit bulls-They have high prey drive and are often very lazy or very energetic.
  • German Shepherds-They have protection instincts mixed with sensitivity to movement and sound (herding qualities) with a strong sense of pack mentality.
  • personality-They have endless energy their entire lives with a need to constantly sniff and investigate everything.
  • Labradors-They have an affinity for getting into things with a fearless mindset.
  • Jack Russel Terriers-These dogs tend to guard resources from other animals and are very intense in every part of their lives.
  • Cattle dogs-They love to control their environment and any movement with their teeth.

These may be qualities you like or don’t like, but they are breed instincts and show up strongly in many dogs or even mixed breeds.  Many people get a specific breed or breed mix of dog and luckily get these qualities on a low, workable level where basic training is enough and they are quite happy.  Then many people get a dog with a high level of these instincts, what they are bred for and cannot control many aspects of their dogs behavior.  This is a reality so many people face even without dealing with serious genetic behavior issues like fearfulness or aggression.

We often want these amazing breeds with these amazing capabilities without knowing what we could possibly get ourselves into since we often don’t run a farm, go hunting, have herds of cattle or need a dog to keep critters out of the barn, jump into freezing cold waters to grab fishnets or have a large property for a dog to monitor.  That is what these animals were bred for, so helping them fit into a different lifestyle can be very difficult, even for skilled handlers.

I love these pictures because both of these dogs are very well trained and are trained to be calm on command.

We have the crazy German Shepherd brain, Ginger and she was still staring at me off and on for an hour before going to sleep, whereas Pepper was happy to curl up and go to sleep within five minutes.  Two German Shepherds with pet dog vs working dog brain.

Now don’t get me wrong, Ginger will sleep in place, even during the day, otherwise we wouldn’t be doing our job right, but it is more difficult for her to settle on her own and go to sleep without being told to go to a spot and lay down for a long period of time and after proper constructive exercise that drains her physically and mentally.

Then there is Pepper, who is very eager to learn new things, and is very good at it and follows instructions well just like you would expect of any GSD, but she definitely has a different mindset and temperament than crazy driven working dog Ginger!  That doesn’t mean that one is desirable over the other, however I can honestly say that if Ginger’s family wasn’t so active, and so dedicated to structure that they would really struggle with Ginger, whereas with Pepper, of course, they might have some issues, but it wouldn’t be on a scale where it would make them miserable.  While they both need training and structure to maintain this awesome state of mind, when you do get a dog and you’re looking at breeds, you do have to take into account their temperament, breeding, their state of mind, where they come from, all in comparison to your lifestyle.

Now if you rescue, you should always foster to adopt so you can learn about that dog’s temperament to see if it is a good fit for the family energy and state of mind-wise.  It’s not just about loving the dog, because honestly, we can fall in love with most all pups, but we have to be responsible in our decision to see if that dog’s quality of life will be great as well as our family’s quality of life.

If you already have a driven dog driving you mad, don’t fret, but start saving your pennies to get professional guidance and training.  You are not alone, but you definitely would want to seek some guidance before things get out of hand.  No one expects you to be able to handle anything on your own, but before you get your next dog, maybe just remember this article and do extensive online research for breed history as well as youtube some awesome dogs doing what they were bred to do so you are prepared for potential outcomes.  We all start by learning from mistakes or dare I say failure.  It’s how we all learn and grow, so hopefully, this article can help someone out there looking for a dog or puppy, or to better prepare them for their next canine companion.

Bethany Wilson

Call to NoHo Visual Artists: Mural at Green NoHo Village

The Juice Parlor is looking for artists to create a new Green NoHo Village mural.

WHAT:

The Green NoHo Village mural was tagged a few months ago and The Juice Parlor is having a contest and would like to offer the space to anyone who wants to do a mural to get their name out, as we have tons of people coming in to the store/village. We are willing to pay for paint and allow the artist to provide a tag of their name/social media handle. The mural is 22x9ft and the theme is KINDNESS. Mural must symbolize kindness and will be chosen by vote by The Juice Parlor Staff.

The Juice Parlor Call to NoHo Visual Artists via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

WHO:

The Green NoHo Village Mural Contest will be open to anyone and everyone who either lives, works or goes to school in North Hollywood.

HOW:

Requirements of submission: In addition to design submission based on kindness theme, please submit one or all of the following:

1. Previous mural(s), online art portfolio, 3 large scale paintings (preferred), and/or 3 small-scale paintings.
2. Provide experience (resume/other) with art – school and professional.
3. Must be 18 and over.
4. Must live, go to school or work in or adjacent to NoHo.
We may request additional information based on each submission.
Please email healthy@thejuiceparlor.com to submit your work and if you have any questions regarding requirements for submission.

WHEN:

Submissions until end of July.

WHERE:

Green NoHo Village (5658 Cahuenga Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601).

WHY:

We believe kindness is important and want to showcase it. Owner of The Juice Parlor launched an organization called Kindness Karma where she wants to spread the word on kindness.

Kindness Karma’s founders Sarina and Melody give us more information on the organization.

Kindness Karma via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

“Many of you may be wondering what Kindness Karma is: well our mission is simply to see kindness and spread kindness. The universe will reward you. We want to help inspire kindness through our everyday actions and interactions in hopes of encouraging others to do the same. Living in such a chaotic world, we need kindness karma more than ever.

This all started when Sarina and Melody would have conversations about life and the world we live in today. As many of you have, we were noticing that the world was becoming an increasingly unkind place. Between online bullying, mass shootings, reality show dramas, social media dramas, and real life fears, it can get too much sometimes. Because of technology and social media people are becoming more and more disconnected physically and emotionally. This is a very sad realization because the truth is that human connection and love is the core of our existence. We need to feel connected to each other to feel alive. We need to spread kind words and good vibes in order for it to be reciprocated. And we need to get rid of negative thoughts and energy in order to be truly happy inside.

So one day last December during our usual coffee chats, a lightbulb went off in our heads and we thought “why don’t we, similar to a chain reaction, spread kindness in hopes that others will do the same.”

So the first thing we did was we started an IG and FB account/where we spread kind messages and news. We had our very first “meet-up” in Central Park in Glendale and wrote kind messages on tags as a group and each person took a tag home and placed it somewhere in LA.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bjp2vMHgFUL/?taken-by=kindness.karma

We hope to do future meetups where we perform everyday acts of kindness as a group. We also recognize kind souls and do a feature on them in hopes of inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Our latest “Kindee” is Koa Jones who has an Instagram account called @leavefootprintsoflove where she posts hearts she finds all over LA. You can read all about her on our website blog but today we want to share her thoughts on how to become a kinder human being.

She says: “The most important place to start is with yourself. You have to be able to show yourself real kindness before you can share authentically with anyone else. When my daughter was in the 6th grade, she did her science fair project on the power of words and thoughts, and she followed the example of Dr. Emoto’s experiment. She took two containers of rice, labeled one “Love” and one “Hate.” For one month, to one she thought about and spoke lovingly to and the other she thought about and spoke negatively to. You would not believe what happened to that rice. The love rice stayed fairly fresh for the entire 30 days, while the hate rice was covered with green and black mold. It’s astounding what kindness can do versus negativity and hatred. Our words and thoughts really are so powerful and kindness is infused with so much goodness, so much light, so much love. Why not spread it every chance we have? What we want to end with is that we are by no means kindness experts, we are just two people just like many people in this world that want to see everyday kindness in our lives and so we are doing our part. We are here to learn and share what we have learned.””

https://www.instagram.com/p/Biz3-J-AYHe/?taken-by=kindness.karma


**** 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.

World Championships of Improv?

CSz Los Angeles Hosts the 2018 ComedySportz World Championship June 28 through June 30 at El Portal Theatre in the NoHo Arts Distrct

The ComedySportz World Championship is a quick-witted, high-energy competition with improvised games and scenes performed in four minutes or less. Audiences have a hand in shaping each match with their suggestions and votes, and each scene has never been done before and will never be done again, much like the show Whose Line Is It Anyway?

This year the 2018 ComedySportz World Championship takes place in Los Angeles with over 25 teams competing at the El Portal Theatre in NoHo from June 28 through June 30, 2018. It’s not comedy about sports, it’s comedy played as a sport, complete with referee, Astroturf, a ballpark organ and the national anthem. The audience helps pick the games, yells suggestions and ultimately decides the winners. Always bouncing from the mildly cerebral to slapstick, ComedySportz appeals to all ages.

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Competing teams come from across the United States and the United Kingdom for three days of training and then begin the tournament matches on June 28. This year’s teams are from Austin TX, Boise ID, Boston MA, Buffalo NY, Chicago IL, Cincinnati OH, Columbus OH, Dallas TX, Denver CO, Detroit MI, Houston TX, Indianapolis IN, Los Angeles CA, Manchester UK, Milwaukee WI, New York NY, Philadelphia PA, Portland ME, Portland OR, Provo UT, Quad Cities IL/IA, Richmond VA, Sacramento CA, San Antonio TX, San Jose CA, Seattle WA, St. Louis MO, Twin Cities MN, and Washington DC.

2018 ComedySportz World Championship
Photo by B. Gardner

ComedySportz is the longest-running show in the history of Los Angeles, having played continuously since it opened on November 19, 1988. Founded and directed by Artistic Director James Thomas Bailey,ComedySportz debuted at West Coast Ensemble in Hollywood. It then played at the Tamarind Theatre in Hollywood (now the Upright Citizens Brigade) from 1992 until moving into The CSz Los Angeles Theatre in 2002 (formerly the Melrose Theatre, and then the HBO Workspace) on Seward Street in Hollywood. In May of 2016, CSz Los Angeles took up residence at the historic El Portal Theatre in the North Hollywood Arts District. The shows are always completely interactive, and suitable for all audiences. Because everything is improvised, no two matches are alike. Fans never see the same thing twice, and they return again and again to cheer on their favorite players.

CSz Los Angeles has offered many other hit shows through the years, and has also entertained at hundreds of corporate, institutional and private events. They have become experts at providing custom entertainment and teambuilding workshops with clients including Google, Yahoo, Disney, SONY, Nestle, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Hulu and the U.S. State Department. CSz LA is most proud of The High School League®, the largest teen improv program in the United States, now in more than 75 schools in Southern California.

ComedySportz was originally conceived by Dick Chudnow and first performed in Milwaukee, where it continues to play today. For more historical information, visit cszworldwide.com

Photo by B Garnder
2018 ComedySportz World Championship
Photo by B Gardner

Notable ComedySportz Alumni:

Jessica Williams, The Daily Show, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald
Ari Stidham, Scorpion
Danny Ricker, co-head writer of Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Steve Agee, Guardians of the Galaxy, The Sarah Silverman Program
Amy Hill, UnReal, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Just Add Magic
Derek Mears, Friday the 13th
Jeff B. Davis, Whose Line Is It Anyway?
Jonathan Mangum, Whose Line Is It Anyway?, Let’s Make A Deal
Chris Tallman, The Thundermans, Reno 911
Lauren Pritchard, MADtv, Stuck in the Middle
Eric Price MADtv
Andre Meadows, Black Nerd/Youtube
Jason Sudekis, Saturday Night Live, many feature films (CSz Kansas City)
Dan Harmon, Community (CSz Milwaukee)
Rachel Bloom, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (CSz LA High School League)
Colton Dunn, Key and Peele (CSz Twin Cities)

TICKETS:

$15 – $20 to purchase tickets and more information: http://www.cszla.com/tickets or call 323.871.1183

WHEN:

Thursday, June 28: 7:00 p.m. (Opening Ceremonies and match); 9:30 p.m.
Friday, June 29: 7:30 p.m.; 10:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 30: 5:00 p.m.; 7:30 p.m.; 10:00 p.m. (Championship match)

WHERE:

The historic El Portal Theatre
5269 Lankershim Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91601

MORE INFO:

– website: http://www.cszla.com
– facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comedysportzla
– twitter: https://twitter.com/cszla
– instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cszla

2018 ComedySportz World Championship
Photo by B. Gardner

We asked James Thomas Bailey, ComedySportz Artistic Director/Founder, some questions about the company and World Championships.

What makes ComedySportz unique?

ComedySportz is unique in many ways—we’re the longest running show in the history of Los Angeles—30 years this November! All ComedySportz shows are suitable for all ages, which means someone could bring their date, their mom, their kids, their boss and not have to worry. That’s a wide demographic—and they all laugh together every week.

We also do corporate entertainment and training.

We also have the largest teen improv program in the United States—the High School League®—with teams in more than 75 schools in Southern California.

How did you get into improv and why do you stick with it?

I fell into it by accident. I was invited to see an improv show just after I graduated college, and I couldn’t believe how magical it was. My passion led me to open the Los Angeles ComedySportz team in 1988, and I’ve been with it ever since. Improv changed the way I walk through the world—the skills and lessons it teaches are transformative.

Are there any other world improv competitions?

There are certainly festivals and competitions of sorts, but nothing like ComedySportz. We have thirty teams in the United States and Europe, and, just like baseball or any other sport, we all play by the same rules. It’s very easy and fun for us to get together for competitions, especially the ComedySportz World Championship.

How long is each nightly event?

Each show contains two matches (four teams). We have two shows on Thursday (7:00 pm & 9:00 pm), two on Friday (7:30 and 10:00 pm) and three on Saturday (5:00 pm, 7:30 pm and 10:00 pm Championship).

How does it work? Semi finals? Quarter finals? Finals? Knock out rounds, etc.

Points are tallied all week long, during non-public preliminary matches, and during the semi finals and finals, which are public.

BGardner ComedySportz World Championships 2018 www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Photo by B. Gardner

Why do you think improv is so popular with audiences?

Our fans have told us the love ComedySportz because we’re accessible—they yell suggestions, call for fouls, volunteer on stage, cheer the teams, talk to the referee and greet us afterward. There’s a certain amount of risk involved—creating something from nothing—that makes it unique and magical. That performance will never happen again. Our fans return again and again because no two shows are the same, and that has allowed them to build a relationship with us.


**** 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.

We’re Celebrating World Cup at Pitfire Pizza

Piftire Pizza will be World Cup games central June 14 – July 15, 2018.

Football/soccer is definitely the world’s sport. According a FIFA,  “More than one billion fans tuned in to watch the final of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™, with the competition reaching a global in-home television audience of 3.2 billion people, according to final figures from FIFA and Kantar Media.”

It’s been a childhood staple for years. Ask anyone and they’ve probably played soccer. But it’s steadily growing in popularity as a professional sport, especially in Los Angeles.

Did you know L.A. has two soccer teams?

We have the L.A. Galaxy and now The Los Angeles Football Club!

So to help show our collective love of soccer, for the duration of the World Cup (June 14 – July 15), Pitfire Pizza will open early (doors open at 9:45AM) at all seven locations on game days to show World Cup games on their big screen TVs. Plus, they’ll have a special breakfast/brunch menu and happy hour with $5 beer and wine specials until 12pm.

Pitfire has created two new special breakfast pizzas. (Yes pizza is for breakfast.) 

Bacon, Egg and Cheese Pizza | sunny eggs, mozzarella, aged cheddar, tomatillo salsa

Smoked Salmon Pizza | red onion, tomato, creme fraiche, chives

We’re Celebrating World Cup 2018 at Pitfire Pizza via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Here are a few of our favorite fun facts.

Check out the full list of “19 Awesome World Cup Facts You Probably Didn’t Know” from https://www.roadtrips.com/blog/world-cup-facts/.

• The first World Cup was played in 1930. Uruguay was both the tournament host and winner that year.
• 3.2 billion people (almost half of the world’s population) tuned in to watch the 2014 World Cup.
• The World Cup has been played 20 times, Brazil holds the most titles with five. Italy and Germany are close behind with four each.
• The World Cup trophy went missing for 7 days in 1966, when it was stolen just prior to the tournament.
• The Italians have had the most number of draws in World Cup history with 21.
• While 32 teams will qualify for the 2018 tournament, the number will jump to 48 in 2026.

And last but certainly not least…

• The World Cup winning country is rumored to see a baby boom nine months after the World Cup. In fact, Hyundai even created a commercial based on this fact.

Everyone’s a soccer fan during World Cup. So enjoy the games with some pals, pizza and maybe a Pinot at Pitfire!


**** 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.

Kristen Lynn and the Foxgloves “Fire Down”

We’re Listening to Kristen Lynn and the Foxgloves “Firedown” from the second album “Lonely Girl” – an album filled with vintage sass, and Irish gypsy and sexy Americana flavors.

Kristen Lynn and the Foxgloves is a Los Angeles-based, five-piece, Gypsy-Jazz, Folk, Americana Band. They just released their second album “Lonely Girl.”

The “Lonely Girl” album is a treat. It’s interesting because it gives us tastes, little treats that are suprises every time we listen.

Kristen Lynn & The Foxgloves makes us travel, through the U.S., over the ocean and back to other times. Although you wouldn’t necessarily say a folk band makes you move, yet they make you dance.  Itunes shuffled the songs and the first was the New Year’s classic “Auld Lang Syne” but it was fresh – fresh nostalgic. Put it on your New Year’s playlist. Then there are classics like “Bella Ciao”, originally an Italian folk song that was used as an anti-fascist resistance song, which is fitting for the times, and it was recorded by Italian folksinger Giovanna Daffini in 1962. The other classic is “Sunshine,” which we found ourselves singing instinctively, “You are my sunshine, my only sunshine.” Adding a song we all know was smart because it’s an instant sing-along, which in turn is an instant like. But this is no copy. They make it their own – recognizable and hummable at the beginning and then the harmonies and fiddle make the loveable melody, well, a bit erotic. There are some songs on the LP that have a strong banjo and fiddle presence that put you in the old country of rolling green hills and Irish jig dancing. Then there were other variations of the fiddle that placed you in mysterious parts of the U.S. Don’t miss the danceable tracks and our favorites: “Super Hero” and “Gypsy Love.”

But we had to pick one song to highlight and that was hard. So we looked at the numbers. Which song did we play the most? Well that would be “Fire Down.”

It starts out with the upright bass taking us back to the 80s, back to a Stray Cats’ video. Thanks for the MTV video days throwback. Next the drums pump in and it’s like big band swing. We are ready for the lindy hop. Then Kirsten’s voice comes in strong, and it’s saucy, it’s entrancing. But wait. Here comes the fiddle, which puts us in the balmy, deep south. It made us ask: “Where’s Vampire Eric?” It has a sexy, dark “True Blood” vibe.

Kristen Lynn is the singer/songwriter and she also plays banjolele, guitar and piano on the album. The Foxgloves consist of Stephen Spies on vocals and fiddle, Syd Everatt on lead and slide (and back-up vocals), Clayton Hamburg on upright bass and Johnny Sneed on drums. The album “Lonely Girl” was produced with sound engineer Nico Essiq who has worked with Amy Winehouse, Paul McCartney, Daft Punk and more.

You can catch Kristen Lynn and the Foxgloves in the NoHo Arts District at The Idle Hour. Follow her on Instagram for show info.

Keep making music that moves us.


For more music that we’re listening to, follow us on our Spotify playlist.

NoHo News: BIG Summer Issue…and NoHo’s just one mile.

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: BIG Summer Issue...and NoHo's just one mile.

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.

Write Act Rep Presents “Their Finest Hour: Churchill and Murrow”

Write Act Rep Presents “Their Finest Hour: Churchill and Murrow” at The Brickhouse Theatre in North Hollywood.

This play is yet another world premiere from the lovely people at Write Act Rep. 

If there is one thing you can rely on from them, it’s human stories set in extraordinary circumstances.  This acutely human story is about two of the most iconic men who have ever lived, Winston Churchill and Edward Murrow.  Few have been as influential or as controversial in their own time or have had that influence live on so long into the present.  What fascinated me immediately with the story of these men was that they had such a close relationship, particularly given the stress and the drama of the times they lived through and their hugely important and personally convoluted roles in each other’s lives, not to mention the parts they played in World War II.

Churchill Murrow 1

The play explores Churchill and Murrow’s unique bond quite deeply and, to be honest, I had very little prior knowledge of what they meant to each other.  The play gives the audience a really interesting and quite emotional insight into a relationship that really had a profound effect on the both of them, not to mention a lot to do with the US finally committing to the Allied forces and the ultimate defeat of the Axis of evil.

Churchill relied on Murrow to communicate to the American people and ultimately to Roosevelt, through his weekly radio show in London.  While in London, Murrow began an affair with Churchill’s daughter-in-law, which ended badly, and which Churchill opposed of course, mostly because he feared for Murrow’s heart rather than his daughter-in-law’s, whom he loathed. 

So, the play follows their friendship, from their first meeting, through the war years and Churchill’s struggles with the British government, his health, and the almost constant opposition to his strategy from the generals and the allies.  Churchill was fearless, and this particular attribute is beautifully developed in this play.  Murrow was far more of a romantic and these two opposite characters and strangely intimate friends make for a gorgeous story.  I must say it strikes me as a lot to take on as an actor.  To play Winston Churchill takes nerve and Michael Karm seems to use the stubborn edge of Churchill to build a really fabulous performance and give us a Churchill full of flaws, passion and heartache.  Murrow is tough too, he is a man so loved in this country and so respected, to show his moral struggle with his adulterous love affair, his loyalty to Winston and his country is tricky.  But Tyler Cook takes him on with a kind of bashful obstinacy and keeps him real.  It’s in the writing really. These two disparate men from different worlds who touch each other’s lives so deeply and literally change the world together.  But the story is not about that, it’s about them.  Each scene revolves around their friendship, more than the war or an unfortunate affair, which we experience of course, but even that ultimately has far more to do with how they feel about each other I think.

Digby Murrow 2

All this is cleverly sprinkled with fabulous British wartime music, the songs of Vera Lynn and the like, which I adored…being English.  The set is impeccable and lovingly put together.  The combined effect, with actors and wardrobe, and the beautiful and heartfelt words is like time traveling.  We are collectively transported to a time in world history where literally everything was on the line, where the stakes were as high as they could be and where two men forged an unlikely and life-changing friendship.

I highly recommend “Their Finest Hour: Churchill and Murrow.”  In these times of uncertainty and disrespect in both politics and journalism, spending a little time with two brave and moral souls is much needed and almost medicinal…I certainly felt a lot better for it.

Beautifully written, expertly acted and superbly directed…Bravo!!

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Limited engagement through August 5.  Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM

TICKETS>>

Written by Willard Manus

Directed by Stu Berg

Starring:

Michael Karm, Tyler Cook, Chantelle Albers, Beau Hogan, and Brian Fortuna

RUMORS @ The Group Rep

The Group Rep presents Neil Simon’s “RUMORS,” directed by Doug Engalla.

I LOVED IT!!! 

I know you are supposed to lead up to an opinion, but Neil Simon’s “RUMORS” at the Group Rep is hilariously funny, has an amazing cast, and an artful, smart and fast paced script by Neil Simon.  Plus, Doug Engalla’s directing has completely transported us into this farcical play.

LtoR DougHaverty LizAnneKeigley photoByDougEngalla
Doug Haverty,  LizAnne Keigley

Now, let me set the scene.  Five influential couples are getting together to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Charley and Myra.  First to arrive is Ken and Chris Gorman (Fox Carney and Debi Tinsley) who hear a shot, and find Charley has shot himself in the ear.  Yes, ear!  He’s alive, but there is blood everywhere.  When Charley’s doctor calls, Ken and Chris try desperately to not let on that Charley has been shot.  Lenny and Claire Ganz (Kent Butler and Cheryl Crosland) are next to arrive, but have just suffered a car accident with Lenny’s new BMW.  So Lenny is frenzied about the car and now needs to deal with Charley shooting himself in the ear.  It turns out that Ken’s doctor is also Lenny’s doctor.  Hmm!!! 

But wait, there’s more.  Ernie and Cookie Cusack (Doug Haverty and LizAnne Keigley) are members of Charley’s tennis club, with Cookie being a TV chef, and a clumsy one at that.  Finally, Glenn Cooper (Todd Andrew Ball) and Cassie Cooper (Hisato Masuyama-Ball) arrive with a dramatic flair.  To complicate things, Charley is the Deputy Mayor of New York, so discretion is very important.  The cops eventually arrive (Robert McCollum and Judy Rosenfeld) with many questions asked.  All the cast successfully runs with the chaotic fun and fast-paced dialogue.  Finally, we never see Charley or Myra, but by the end of this play, we feel like we have.

LtoR FoxCarney DebiTinsley photoByDougEngalla
Fox Carney, Debi Tinsley

Direction is fantastic by Doug Engalla.  I can’t mention this enough.  Sets, as usual, are fabulous by Chris Winfield.  But all the elements, stage management, lighting, sound, costumes, are very well done.

Neil Simon has a vast list of outstanding work.  Plays, TV and movies include: “Lost In Yonkers,” “Barefoot in the Park,” “Sweet Charity,” “The Sunshine Boys,” “Biloxi Blues,” and of course, “The Odd Couple,” to name only a very few. 

“RUMORS” is silly, frantic at times, and ferociously funny, and is a MUST SEE.  As I said at the beginning of this review, I LOVED IT!!!  Run, run, run to the Group Rep at the Lonny Chapman Theatre in North Hollywood.  Now more than ever we need a good laugh. “RUMORS” is a great laugh.  

Enjoy!!!!!!!!!

Cast:  Todd Andrew Ball, Michele Bernath (7/20-7/29), Patrick Burke (7/13-7/15), Kent Butler, Fox Carney, Cheryl Crosland, Doug Haverty, LizAnne Keigley, Hisato Masuyama-Ball, Robert McCollum, Judy Rosenfeld, and Debi Tinsley

Director:  Doug Engalla

Producer for the Group Rep:  Alyson York

Set Design:  Chris Winfield

Light Design:  Addison Calvin

Costume Design:  Angela M. Eads

Assistant Director:  Sophie Lamzik

Stage Manager:  John Ledley

Assistant Stage Manager:  Janee Hull

Sound Design:  Steve Shaw

Lights/Sound Operator:  Joseph Marcelo

Production Photography/Videography:  Doug Engalla

Public Relations:  Nora Feldman

Graphic Design:  Doug Haverty + Art & Soul Design

Lonny Chapman Theatre

10900 Burbank Blvd

North Hollywood, CA 91601

Tickets:  www.thegrouprep.com    or    (818) 763-5990.

General Admission:  $25.       Seniors/Students with ID:  $20.      Groups 10+:  $15.

Runs:  Extended through August 11.  Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 pm.   Sunday Matinees at 2:00 pm. 

Talkbacks after Sunday Matinees on June 24 and July 8.