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These 3 factors inhibit the blood flow to your brain

Jack Witt
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Brain health is important! I don’t have to tell you that.

Our brains control every tissue, cell, and organ in our bodies, so blood flow to it and thus oxygen saturation into the tissues is vital.

The 1st factor that inhibits blood flow to the brain is caffeine. Coffee, Tea, Soda, Energy Drinks are all culprits when consumed daily in excess. Try to stick to just 1 cup of coffee or tea a day, and eliminate sodas and artificial energy drinks from your diet completely. It may seem counter-intuitive, but you’ll have more focus, energy and clarity by significantly reducing your daily caffeine doses.

The 2nd factor that inhibits blood flow to the brain is sugar, especially processed. We Americans consume almost 100 grams of sugar a day! That’s like 5 times as much as folks did in the early 20th century. So look for foods with a low glycemic index such as oatmeal, whole grains and non starchy vegetables and carrots.

The 3rd factor that inhibits blood flow to the brain are bad fats like trans and saturated, as well as highly processed oils like canola. Our brain and body does need a certain percentage of good fats though, so increase those good fats that are in various nuts, avocados, and salmon.

Special Note: Consume more herbs and spices to increase the blood flow to your brain. Suggestions include Turmeric, which helps reduce brain plaque, Cinnamon, which helps regulate sugar levels, as well as Basil and Garlic, which helps directly increase blood flow to the brain.

Cheers,

Jack Witt, MS, CPT
Fitness and Health Coach
“Get Fit with Witt”
Individuals / Groups / Corporate
310.562.5629 Cell / 818.760.3891 Main
www.getfitwithWitt.com 
https://twitter.com/GetfitwithWitt  

* New Book “From Passion to Purpose”

* Hike the Holy Land: Join me March 28 – April 5, 2016

It’s the Year of the Monkey!

Lisa Bianconi
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It’s the Chinese New Year 4714

Althought we call this 2016, the Chinese have a much longer history and it is the Chinese New Year 4714. Chinese New Year has officially begun and it’s the year of the Monkey. Every year is represented by an animal on the Chinese Zodiac. The cycle is 12 years, with a different animal every year. To find out about your sign, see Chinese Astrology. The date of Chinese New Years changes every year. It is a 15-day celebration, beginning on the first day of the new moon, and ends on the full moon. Chinese New Years or Spring Festival, is the biggest holiday in Chinese culture. It is celebrated with festivities, fireworks, brightly colored lights, special meals with family and gift giving.

It’s also a time of reflection and priorities. People make amends, reconcile with people, and reestablish communication with old ties, buy and wear new clothes, give gifts, and clean the house. We say it’s always a good time to reconcile, clean house and start anew. It can serve as the traditional Western New Year’s “Do Over.” So start thinking about those New Year’s resolutions you’ve let slide.

“Xinnian Kuaile” means “Happy New Year”. It’s pronounced “sshin-nyen kwhy-luh,” by the way.

Many Chinese still believe in astrology and other New Year superstitions. Here are some things NOT to give on Chinese New Year. Shoes, scissors, mirrors, sets of four, and the list goes on. Here’s the list and reasoning on what not to give.

Year of the Monkey www.nohoartsdistrict.com

How to celebrate Chinese New Year in Los Angles?

Take the METRO from North Hollywood to Downtown Union Station for the Chinese New Year Parade in Chinatown. Saturday, February 13, 2016 is the
117th Golden Dragon Parade.

Stay in NoHo and celebrate Chinese New Year NoHo style, or rather, Zombie Joe style with their latest show, “The Year of the Monkey.”

Zombie Joe's Year of the Monkey www.nohoartsdistrict.com

 

From the mouth of Zombie Joe himself…

How did you come up with the idea to create a show based on the Chinese horoscope?

We’ve always been super-excited every time the Years of the Monkey and Dragon roll around. As red-haired, ever-shifting theatre artists, we can honestly relate to their quirky, clever, intuitive, vibrant and hyper-active characteristics of The Monkeys (esp. 2016’s FIRE Monkey) and fantastical fables that are associated with them. We’ve always felt it was a perfect match with our ZJU prowess, to revolve a fully immersive theatrical show around the ancient tale of the Monkey battling the Dragon over possession of the magic wand of fear, intimidation, dominion and supremacy.

What is theatrically-immersive?

YEAR OF THE MONKEY is featured fully in-the-round; our wonderful audience members can either sit and enjoy the spectacle from the relaxation of their comfortable seats, or they can actually “rove” and around the performance space/stage and partake/involve themselves within the constantly-moving choreographed action – this choice is truly at the taste and discernment of each audience member, to either become part of the story or watch it from the comfort of their seat. Either way, it’s a heck of a lot of fun and a great way to celebrate new, fresh vibrant theatre within the boundless spirit of the New Year, can’t be beat!

Do you have a pick of a cast member as a monkey?

Actually each of our 10 amazing cast members (the unsurpassed ensemble of Jennifer Ashe, Jeannie Hudak, Gerald McGrory, Olivia M. Powell, Dale Sandlin, Elif Savas, Anastasiya Serada, Adam Shows, Kevin Van Cott and Roger K. Weiss), each play a variety of monkey and dragon roles, weaving in and out of our epic story. Dale Sandlin stars as Chunky, our Monkey-Master-Of-Ceremonies and Dragon-Head of sorts…Oh, this must be seen to be believed!

Run dates: February 5 – 27
Tickets>>

Happy Year of the Monkey, NoHo!

**** 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.

 

Call for Artists: Beverly Hills artSHOW

Lisa Bianconi
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Beverly Hills artSHOW is Seeking Artists  – Four-Block Event Showcases Incredible Array of Art and Avid Fans


Submission deadline is February 15th!

The Beverly Hills artShow is seeking fine artists to exhibit in the May 21st & 22nd fine art show. Held in the center of Beverly Hills along four historic garden blocks, it attracts 40,000 art lovers from the west side of Los Angeles and adjacent areas, along with regional art dealers, guests from all the area hotels, and even out-of-state patrons who come specifically for this event. The atmosphere is collegial, casual, friendly and fun; yet the outdoor show caters to serious art shoppers, via an extensive advertising campaign. It is consistently highly rated by the major national publications that review outdoor art events across the country.

Artist Andy Anh Ha Beverly Hills artSHOW October 2015
Artist Andy Anh Ha Beverly Hills artSHOW October 2015

The 2016 artSHOW media partners also spread the word to our art-loving public. This year they include the Los Angeles Art Association, Fabrik Magazine, the LA Weekly, LA Art Party, Yelp, and the Beverly Hills Conference and Visitor’s Bureau.

Artists who work in all genres and many media are welcome to apply. Nearly 250 artists will be accepted. For this show, staff is also seeking artists who focus on male and female portraiture for a special feature, Men and Women: gender in art. All artwork must be original of course! The deadline to apply is February 15th, and the late and final deadline is February 22nd. Visit www.beverlyhills.org/artshowinfo for general information and www.beverlyhills.org/artshowapp to apply to the show as an artist.

The spring event will be held on Saturday and Sunday, May 21st and 22nd, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Beverly Gardens Park on Santa Monica Boulevard, from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive. The Beverly Hills artSHOW is in its 43rd year of welcoming art enthusiasts together from all over the Southern California region and beyond. In addition to great works of art, guests enjoy understated live entertainment, a wine garden, a beer garden, gourmet food trucks and family art projects. Convenient parking is located directly across from the show’s beautiful grounds.

Category awards and major show awards totaling $8,000 in cash prizes, including the Mayor’s Purchase Award, Best of Show, Most Original Work, and media category awards, will be announced in a Sunday afternoon ceremony, at the show’s center, in front of the Lily Pond.

Vanscoy Taman Beverly Hills artSHOW www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Vanscoy Taman artist winner Beverly Hills artSHOW October 2015

Major event sponsors include David Frank Design and Engel & Volkers Real Estate. Food and Beverage partners include Whole Foods Market, Paley Center for Media, Premiere Events, Beck’s Beer, and Hint Water. The show’s charitable partner is Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and its sister organization, Healing Art with Kids.

For application information about the May 2016 Beverly Hills artSHOW, visit www.beverlyhills.org/artshow or call (310) 285-6836. For media inquiries, contact Dana Beesen at dbeesen@beverlyhills.org or call (310) 285-2530.

**** 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.

Doing Super Bowl in the neighborhood at The Federal Bar

Lisa Bianconi
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Who’s ready for food, beer, and, oh yeah, football?

Come join the neighborhood and watch Super Bowl 50 at The Federal Bar NoHo! Friday, Saturday and Sunday they’ll be serving up their Super Bowl Weekend Special CAROLINA PORK NACHOS. (They had us at nachos.) Theirs are smoked pork, pickled red onions, jalapenos, white cheddar, cabbage/cilantro slaw and Carolina BBQ sauce.

Super Bowl themed dishes at The Federal Bar NoHo www.nohoartsdistrict.com

On game day they’ll also have their DENVER BISON SLIDERS plus FISHERMAN’S WHARF CRAB FLATBREAD! They’ll be running Super Bowl themed food and draft specials during the game! So come on out and join your neighbors at Super Bowl 50, Federal Bar style.

Address: 5303 Lankershim Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91601
Phone:(818) 980-2555

For those not so interested in football, much less the Super Bowl, here are some other things you can do…

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Happy Super Bowl 50!

**** 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.

Restaurant Review Icekrave, NoHo Fresh

nohoarts
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Restaurant Review

Icekrave, NoHo Fresh, 5235 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood

I’ve long thought there was something missing in NoHo…something sweet, something fruity, something uniquely delicious and healthy.

The recently opened ‘Icekrave’ is exactly what the doctor ordered.

They serve healthy, fresh, organic juices, cold pressed on the premises twice daily. Organic, probiotic filled, freshly made delicious Frozen Yoghurt, Custard, Italian Ice, Gelato and Sorbet with flavors to die for and amazing, tasty and ridiculously healthy smoothies, and for those of you in a hurry fresh shots, infused with everything you need to invigorate and heal.

Icekrave is a one stop shop for what’s best for your body, with a little sweet naughtyness mixed in so you can be good to your soul too.

Henry Abelyan, owner operator, created Icekrave with a dream that healthy could also be delicious.

icekrave north hollywood noho arts district 2

Icekrave is one of the few shops in town that presses its own daily delivery of fruits and vegetables, and you can tell that their love for ‘NoHo fresh’ guarantees that everything they sell is the healthiest and best tasting combination.

So what did I try? Well a little bit of everything of course! And believe me when I say I could have stayed a lot longer and tried a lot more!

I am a bit of a frozen yogurt lover, and usually I want to add lots of fresh fruit and toppings, but Icekrave’s frozen yogurt is so sublime that I found I didn’t need to top it off with anything! Their selection changes, they like to keep things interesting for their customers, but I hope they keep the pecan pie frozen yogurt as I think I may fade away without it…

NoHo is blessed with unique businesses established and run by people with a drive to bring great products and service to the neighborhood and Icekrave is another reason to frequent the Lankershim corridor. They stay open late, 10 in the week and 11 on the weekends, which is great for the theatre crowd, of which I am usually one. The shop has a really retro feel, without being too contrived and felt very ‘London’ to me somehow. With plenty to space outside to sit and people watch, but very relaxed and welcoming and the staff are very knowledgable and sweet, no snootyness here!

The last time I visited I was feeling a little under the weather so I tried one of their cold pressed specialities, Green 3…which kicked my potential cold’s butt…it must have been the cayenne!!

icekrave north hollywood noho arts district 1

But pretty much everything they have is delicious, so wether you are popping in for a pick me up shot or juice, thirsty for something more meal like with a filling smoothie or feeling like treating yourself to some sweetly indulgent frozen dessert, they have you covered.

Isn’t it nice to know NoHo has it’s very own nutritious nirvana with kale, cayenne, custard and sprinkles…

I absolutely love this place, it’s a cross between an apothecary and an an ice cream parlor.

I highly recommend Icekrave, it’s dessert without the guilt!!

It’s now a regular stop for me in NoHo, in fact I believe I may become their best customer if I’m not too careful!

Ask for Henry, he can guide you through the menu and help you find the best combination of goodness and gorgeousness.

Tell them Samantha from nohoartsdistrict.com sent you!

Click here for directions to IceKrave, their opening times and more info!

 

Music Help: How do you choose your speakers?

Lisa Bianconi
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Things to Consider When Choosing Speakers

One of the most important things for many homeowners is having a stereo system that is both high quality and great sounding. Once you have made some great Playlists, you will need something to play them on. The more you know about what you want in a speaker, the better equipped you will be to get exactly what you need. A vital part in getting the speakers that you need is finding the right supplier. The following are a few things you need to consider when trying to find the right speakers.

The Right Size

The first thing you need to consider when trying to find the right speakers is the size that you need. Speakers come in a variety of different sizes, which means you will need to assess the room that you have, so you know if you need a compact speaker system or something a bit larger. If you are unsure about the exact type of that you need, then be sure to consult with a professional in order to get the advice that you need.

Matching Your Components

Another thing that you need to consider when choosing the right speakers for your home is the type of components that you already have. You want to make sure that the speakers you are choosing will sync up with the stereo and receivers you already have in place. Neglecting to check this vital variable can end up in you buying speakers that will not be compatible. Be sure to seek advice from the supplier you are buying your speakers from because they will know which products will work with what you already have in place in your home.

The Quality

Yet another very important thing that you need to consider when buying speakers is the quality that the brand is known for. The best way to find the information you need on a particular brand of speakers is by going on the internet and checking customer reviews. A customer review will allow you to see how well a certain speaker brand has performed for others, which will be a good indication of how they will perform for you. The time and the effort that you put into this process will be more than worth it in the end when you get the best speakers for your needs.

By taking the time to put the right sound components in your home, you will be able to enjoy the different music that you have in your library with ease.

Happy Listening!

**** 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.

NoHo News: Puppets, Illusionists, Broken Fences, Italian Musical Drama, Fat Dog

Lisa Bianconi
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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…ENJOY NOHO!

**** 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.

RADIO THE WAY IT SHOULD BE!

Tammy Johnston
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RADIO THE WAY IT SHOULD BE!

“Ronnie Mack’s Barndance/The Radio Show is your one stop shop for all things Roots, Americana, and Country. Hosted by the legendary Ronnie Mack, its radio the way it used to be.

So kick off your Doc Martins, Tony Lamas, or your Converse and settle in for an hour of music, talk and fun!”

The show promotes traditional and alternative forms of American roots music. You will enjoy traditional country, rockabilly, traditional blues, rhythm & blues, doo wop, bluegrass and alternative forms of American roots music. In other words, this is music that you will never hear on commercial mainstream radio.

In studio guest interviews include
Pete Anderson – known for his guitar work with and critically acclaimed production of country music star Dwight Yoakam. He holds 5 Billboard #1 albums, 12 gold albums and 9 platinum albums. Among the artists he has produced are Roy Orbison, The Meat Puppets, Michelle Shocked, and Buck Owens.

Michael-Ann– winner of DisCovery of the Week Award from Music Row Magazine. This singer-songwriter has opened for music heavies Blake Shelton, Joan Baez, Judy Collins, Kenny Rogers, and Wanda Jackson.

Brian Whelan-His history includes playing with Chuck Berry and has been seen on stages across the nation with Dwight Yoakam, playing in the ‘cowpunk” pioneer’s Bakersfield-evoking band.

Tonya Watts- an accomplished, award-winning singer-songwriter is one of Reverb Nations top ten Los Angeles country acts. She has gained the country veteran alliances with such kindred spirits as Jamey Johnson, Deana Carter, David Allan Coe and Hank III.

James Intveld – In the early 1980’s this diverse artist and entertainer formed the popular rockabilly band James Intveld and The Rocking Shadows. He has played the Opry and Ernest Tubb’s Midnight Jamboree, toured with John Fogerty and was on lead guitar in The Blasters. He also wrote Rosie Flores hit “Cryin’ Over You”.

http://www.tmvcafe.com/ 

What fans and artists are saying:

“Enjoyed the interview and the music you chose. Some of my favorites!”

“The show was great. And you were right—-Little Richard was fabulous in Las Vegas last year—–I was in the front row.”

“I worked with James Intveldt ‘during the ‘Hillbilly era’ in Hollywood …years ago!

“Great talent!”

“That’s the”Rockabilly” era!”

“Loved the interview with James Intveld, more of those please!”.

“What an honor! Thank you Ronnie! “-Tonya Watts

The show is produced and engineered by actor and musician Robbie Rist.
The weekly radio show airs every Saturday at 6:00 p.m. PST http://www.tmvcafe.com/
All shows are archived for your listening pleasure. https://archive.org/details/RadioBarndance

So, folks, tune in and KEEP IT ALIVE!

LA STAGE Alliance Neighborhood Forums

Lisa Bianconi
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Despite what many might say, Los Angeles is a theatre town.

The NoHo Arts District is home to 20+ theatres, the highest concentration outside of New York City. The LA STAGE Alliance will host
LOOKING FORWARD: A Series of Community Forums. Get involved in your theatre community.

From LA STAGE Alliance:

“LA STAGE Alliance is traveling to neighborhoods throughout the city for LOOKING FORWARD, a series of six community forums taking place in February and March, to discuss the challenges and possibilities of making art in Los Angeles. These forums will be moderated by our Executive Director, Steven Leigh Morris.

As articulated in an article on @ This Stage, LA STAGE Alliance has ambitious plans for meeting the challenges of real estate, diversity, youth engagement and mobility across the region. However, we’d like to hear from the community about the issues our member and non-member theaters are grappling with – including answers to the following questions:

• What are the most immediate challenges facing your organization ?
• What are the long-term challenges?
• What are the programs already available to meet those challenges?
• If you could have everything you need, how do you envision Los Angeles in February, 2021?

We also have ideas for specific programs and services, and we’d like feedback on their usefulness to your organization.

Please choose a date that works for you and RSVP here. In order to facilitate the most fruitful discussion, only a limited number of places are available for each forum, so please RSVP early. Thank you, and we’ll see you soon.

NoHo’s Looking Forward: Community Forum is:

WHEN: Monday, February 8 at 7 PM

WHERE: The Road on Lankershim
5108 Lankershim Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 91601

QUESTIONS? Email>>

RSVP>>

ABOUT
LA STAGE Alliance, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization empowering artists and engaging audiences since 1975, is dedicated to building awareness, appreciation and support for the performing arts in Greater Los Angeles strengthening the sector through audience engagement, community building, collaborative marketing, professional development and advocacy.”

**** 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.

THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY L.A. Premiere at Hollywood Pantages Theatre

NoHo - North Hollywood
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THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY

FEBRUARY 23 – MARCH 13, 2016

The Nederlander Organization is proud to announce that THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY will make its highly anticipated L.A. Premiere at Hollywood Pantages Theatre for a limited three week engagement; February 23 – March 13, 2016. Tickets are Now On Sale to the general public and may be purchased online at www.HollywoodPantages.com or www.Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-982-2787, and at the Hollywood Pantages Box Office (6233 Hollywood Boulevard). Call 323-468-1770 for current box office hours. Recommended for All Ages. Children under 5 will not be admitted to the theatre. All patrons must have a ticket, regardless of age.

Having shattered box office records around the world, THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY made its U.S. debut at New York City’s Marquis Theatre in Times Square during the 2014 Holiday Season. This mind-blowing spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth. Full of hilarious magic tricks, death-defying stunts and acts of breathtaking wonder, THE ILLUSIONISTS has dazzled audiences of all ages. Creative Producer Simon Painter said, “We can’t wait to bring this electrifying show to Los Angeles for a truly entertaining experience for the whole family. THE ILLUSIONISTS is the most non-stop and powerful mix of outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on the live stage.”

THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY features seven stars, each a master in their own field. Featured in the Los Angeles engagement will be:

The Futurist, Adam Trent: shatters stereotypes and brings a new generation of magic to fans fusing technology illusions, dancing and comedy with classic techniques.

The Illusionists Adam Trent Pantages Theatre www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Adam Trent – Photo courtesy Hollywood Pantages Theatre


The Manipulator, Yu Ho-Jin: Considered a rising superstar in the world of magic; Yu Ho-Jin was recently named the 2014 “Magician of the Year,” by Academy of Magical Arts and was the first Asian to win the Grand Prix at the Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques, also known as the “Olympics of Magic.”

The Anti-Conjuror, Dan Sperry: Described as Marilyn Manson meets David Copperfield, Dan combines the art of magic with the macabre and is one of the top-10 most Googled people, thanks to a legendary “America’s Got Talent” appearance.

The Trickster, Jeff Hobson: is the epitome of glamour and showmanship. Don’t be fooled by his innocent appearance; Jeff has audiences laughing long after the curtain goes down.

The Escapologist, Andrew Basso: Italy’s star escape artist, Andrew considers Houdini his hero and is fast becoming one of the world’s most popular illusionists. He is the only person in the world to perform Houdini’s famous Water Torture Cell with absolutely no covers.

Andrew Basso The Illusionists Hollywood Pantages Theatre www.nohoartsdisrict.com
Andrew Basso – Photo courtesy Hollywood Pantages Theatre

The Inventor, Kevin James: known for innovative illusions, is an inventor, comedian and collector of the strange and unusual. Kevin is one of the most prolific inventors of magic in the world and has created some of the most celebrated illusions of the last century.

The Weapon Master, Ben Blaque: has established himself as America’s foremost master of the crossbow after appearing four times on America’s Got Talent. He performs incredibly dangerous acts of dexterity using highly powerful crossbows to shoot various objects supported by his assistant.

The Illusionists Hollywood Pantages Theatre www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Photo courtesy Hollywood Pantages Theatre

THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY is produced by Simon Painter, Tim Lawson and MagicSpace Entertainment. Conceived by Simon Painter, the show’s creative team also includes executive producer Tim Lawson, director Neil Dorward and creative director Jim Millan.

SIMON PAINTER, CREATIVE PRODUCER
Simon Painter is a visionary creative theatrical producer who hails from London. Simon started his career on stage as a classical violinist, and performed the lead role for Spirit of the Dance in Las Vegas. The first show he produced, Le Grand Cirque smashed box office records at the Sydney Opera House selling over 40,000 tickets in 10 days. His two subsequent productions, Aerial Dreams and Adrenaline also broke records in Sydney and across the world and achieved critical acclaim. In 2010 Simon had five versions of Le Grand Cirque playing concurrently. In late 2010 Simon joined forces with Australian producer and close friend Tim Lawson and began assembling the greatest magical minds from a wide spectrum of disciplines. His production of The Illusionists has already performed to record breaking crowds in theatres and arenas across the globe including Australia, Mexico, Latin America, South America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. In addition to The Illusionists: Witness The Impossible, Simon’s current projects include Le Noir (The Dark Side of Cirque) and Illusionists 2.0, both of which are currently playing extensive international tours. Simon is also due to open a third installment of The Illusionists (The Illusionists 1903) in January 2015.

TIM LAWSON, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Tim Lawson is the CEO of TML Enterprises, servicing Australia and international territories with first class musicals and family entertainment with productions spanning across over 100 cities in 20 countries. Australasian theatrical touring credits include Sweet Charity, Buddy – The Musical, Jolson starring Rob Guest, Spirit of the Dance, Oh! What A Night, Fiddler on the Roof starring Topol, It’s A Dad Thing!, Weary – The Life of Sir Edward Dunlop, Shout! The Musical, Brave Men Run In Our Family, Jekyll and Hyde starring Brad Little and The Rocky Horror Show narrated by Richard O’ Brien. Tim’s award winning production of A Chorus Line transferred to the prestigious London Palladium, and his production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang recently completed a 13 month tour. With partner Simon Painter, credits include Le Grand Cirque, Ariel Dreams, Adrenaline, Le Noir – The Dark Side of Cirque, The Illusionists and The Illusionists 2.0, all enjoying record breaking success and extensive international arena and theatrical touring. The Illusionists 1903 – The Golden Age of Magic premieres in Australia in January 2015. www.tmlenterprises.com

About MagicSpace Entertainment
MagicSpace Entertainment is headed by Lee D. Marshall, Joe Marsh, John Ballard, Steve Boulay and Bruce Granath and has been producing and presenting national tours, Broadway shows, concerts and museum exhibits worldwide for over 30 years. Consistently one of the top promoters in North America, MagicSpace Entertainment typically produces and presents more than 250 events in 75 cities per year. Broadway credits include Donny & Marie – A Broadway Christmas, The Who’s Tommy, American Idiot and RAIN – A Tribute To The Beatles On Broadway. National tour credits include Lord of the Dance created by Michael Flatley, Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage starring in Mythbusters – Behind The Myths, Alton Brown Live, Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis, Donny & Marie Christmas, RAIN – A Tribute to the Beatles, David Copperfield, Jesus Christ Superstar, A Chorus Line and concert tours by Janet Jackson, Cher, and Fleetwood Mac to name just a few. Museum exhibitions produced on the road include the Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs exhibition, Titanic: The Exhibition and Diana – A Celebration. MagicSpace Entertainment has offices in Park City and Salt Lake City, UT. www.magicspace.net

For more information, visit www.TheIllusionistsLive.com.

The performance schedule for THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY is Tuesday through Friday at 8pm, Saturday at 2pm & 8pm, and Sunday at 1pm & 6:30pm. Opening Night is Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at 8pm.

THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY is recommended for all ages. (Children under 5 will not be admitted to the theatre. All patrons must have a ticket, regardless of age.)

Individual tickets for THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY start at $25 in the Orchestra. Prices are subject to change without notice.

For more information on THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY, visit www.TheIlluionistsLive.com.

For tickets or more information about the Los Angeles premiere of THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY, please visit the official website for Hollywood Pantages Theatre: www.HollywoodPantages.com/TheIllusionists. 

LISTINGS INFORMATION

Dates: FEBRUARY 23 – MARCH 13, 2016
Theatre: HOLLYWOOD PANTAGES THEATRE 6233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Performance Schedule: Tuesday – Friday at 8pm
Saturday at 2pm & 8pm
Sunday at 1pm & 6:30pm
Opening Night: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at 8pm
Individual Tickets: Individual tickets start at $25 in the Orchestra
Ticket prices subject to change without notice.
Parental Advisory: Recommended for All Ages
Children under 5 will not be admitted to the theatre.
All patrons must have a ticket, regardless of age.
Tickets: Online: HollywoodPantages.com or Ticketmaster.com
Phone: 1-800-982-2787
In Person: Hollywood Pantages Box Office (opens daily at 10am)
and all Ticketmaster Outlets

Description: This mind-blowing spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of the most incredible illusionists on earth. Full of hilarious magic tricks, death-defying stunts and acts of breathtaking wonder, THE ILLUSIONISTS – LIVE FROM BROADWAY has dazzled audiences of all ages.

Having shattered box office records around the world, THE ILLUSIONISTS recently made its U.S. debut on Broadway at New York City’s Marquis Theatre in Times Square on November 26, 2014 where it celebrated a highly-successful holiday engagement.

 

Lunch with the NoHo Councilman

Lisa Bianconi
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#LunchwithPaul

Have you ever wanted to sit down and chat with your councilmember about issues facing North Hollywood and the NoHo Arts District? This Thursday, February 4, you can! Join Councilmember Krekorian for another edition of Lunch with Paul at SteamPunk Coffeebar + Kitchen in Valley Village. Come out to the lunch gathering and help support a fantastic local business, meet your neighbors and learn more about local issues that affect us all.

WHEN: Thursday, February 4, 2016 – 12-1PM

WHERE: SteamPunk Coffeebar + Kitchen
12526 Burbank Blvd.
Valley Village, CA 91607-1504
818-508-1276

MENU: http://www.steampunkla.com

RSVP: All community members are invited to come support this great local business. RSVP here: http://www.paulkrekorian.org/lunchwithpaul

**** 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.  

New Year, more theatre.

Lisa Bianconi
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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…ENJOY NOHO!

**** 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.

I haven’t Made a Film in How Long? Or, The Sublime Art of Not Getting Distracted.

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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I haven’t Made a Film in How Long? Or, The Sublime Art of Not Getting Distracted.

It’s a fallacy that writers have to shut themselves up in their ivory towers to write. I have all these interruptions, three of which I gave birth to. If I was thrown for a loop every time I was distracted, I could never get anything done.

Jodi Picoult

Well she’s written a lot of books….so maybe she knows what she’s talking about.

But of course she doesn’t have my distractions, or yours….

Sometimes I think I distract myself deliberately in order to avoid working on “the big project”, in fact I absolutely know I do…

There is nothing more terrifying than starting something and not being able to finish it.

So it’s better to avoid it altogether, I find that far less embarrassing for everyone involved.

But then that is completely ridiculous of “so where does that leave us?”

I have found that the older I get the more easily distracted I become.
I remember being able to read a book cover to cover with nary a thought of anyone or anything else until it was finished, but these days I can hardly get through a Facebook article, and forget it if a page doesn’t load in less than 4 seconds.

But blaming the march of time and the invention of the interweb is as pathetic as I feel writing this article at two in the morning because I have spent the last four hours and thirty-seven minutes watching animal videos and reading yet more political blarney.

I totally understand why novelists retreat to the Ozark’s or remote islands to get anything done.

I have two grownish children needing rides and validation, friends of theirs calling out “Hi!” every other minute as they traipse in and out of the house. Four dogs who insist on howling at every emergency siren, and in North Hollywood there are a lot of those I can tell you, and neighbors up at all hours rattling around in their homes.

Add to that bills and commitments and work and the election and family and the blessed interweb again and most days seem to fly by in a blur of “what the hell did I accomplish todayness”.

And here I am in January 2016 and I just realized that I haven’t made a film in 4 years….

To be fair I have worked on many other projects belonging to other people. I have co-written a brilliantly funny feature with two excellent friends/writers, shot tons of things, editing a few more and been “on hand” for several others.

But I haven’t written, produced, directed and generally pulled together my own material in four bloody years…

I flick through endless facebook posts about everyone else’s stuff, some of which I am happy for, some confused by and all of which make me feel more guilty for not doing my own work.

I know we all fall behind; we all get on paths we had no intention of taking. We all have…you know…something, but in the end it’s all one big giant excuse, for all of us.

Even writing this article, on distractions….is a distraction from the real work.

So what to do?

Well they last way I well and truly conquered my tendency to avoid was to create a project that I couldn’t retreat from, mostly because I made an announcement to the universe and also because I surrounded myself with like-minded people and had two wonderful partners who were just as committed and much less easily distracted.

If my biggest weakness is ‘distraction’, which blossoms beautifully into procrastination, frustration and panic, accepting that about myself leaves me with two choices…

Give up and never accomplish anything of substance or… find a way around it….and, at my best, I can find a way around pretty much anything…60 plus 0 budget shorts films are a testimony to that…

So, around it we must go!

And as I stumble over dogs, laundry, squeaking offspring and other uncompleted tasks I will also remind myself that it is often on the edge of chaos that the most beautiful creations …. oh wait, I just got an email…

Forgive me, and forgive yourself. The world is fully of unfinished novels, half painted walls and minimized dreams.

But if you truly want to make a film, if it’s the first thought you have when you open your eyes, and you find yourself actually distracted by it and from everything else in your life, then shuffle off that warm blanket that is procrastination. Shove your feet into the slippers of invention and pull on the bathrobe of success…

Be bold, be stubborn, be ridiculous and just get on with it…

My husband is working on the project that wouldn’t let him sleep, and the light of his ipad blinking with inspiration certainly kept me up nights too.

These are the only ones worth the effort after all. I am helping of course, but I see the joy of creation in his eyes and waves of envy wash over me…good lord I need to write something!!!

The thing about filmmaking is that it’s not an isolationist art form. You just can’t do it on your own and I think that can be a big part of why it can feel a little daunting. You are actually asking other people to help you, and that can be a problem in and of itself. They can say no for a start, or say yes and wish they hadn’t or not show up or be terrible or break something, or any number of other potentially destructive things.

But life is all about risk and nothing worthwhile is without it…

So I am resolved to stop my procrastination, as much as I enjoy typing the word, and get on with my “passion project”.

Which involves writing a sci-fi feature script, and then actually making it…before I turn fifty, which is next year as it turns out…I always forget how old I am!

So wish me luck and be inspired yourselves and get in touch if you fancy a leap into the future in my little big film…

Stop making excuses, I’ve heard them all…I’ve said them all…

 

Save Our Intimate Theaters Legal Fund

Lisa Bianconi
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L.A. Intimate Theatre Legal Fund

A community at a crossroads…

The Los Angeles theater community had a tumultuous 2015 (detailed at ilove99.org), which culminated in a pending lawsuit against the union of professional actors and stage managers, Actors’ Equity Association (AEA). AEA and the Plaintiffs (who are all members of the Los Angeles theater community) are finally at the table, ready to work together to try to resolve this dispute. Make no mistake: any resolution reached here will set the course for intimate theater in our region for the next generation (and hopefully beyond). The importance of this moment cannot be overstated. Click to DONATE>>

What is the “Save Our Intimate Theaters Legal Fund”?

It is a crowdsourced fund to pay legal expenses associated with the upcoming talks with Actors’ Equity Association. Plaintiffs have agreed to temporarily suspend their lawsuit against Actors Equity, so that both parties could meet to attempt resolution of their differences and craft a new plan for Los Angeles intimate theaters. We are raising funds to pay for a neutral third party to facilitate the discussion between AEA and the Plaintiffs, and to cover the legal fees that have been accruing throughout this process.

Where will the money go?

The money will be held in a trust account through the lead attorney, Steven Kaplan, and will be deducted as expenses incur. You can read more about Steven Kaplan here: http://sjkaplanlaw.com/. You can read about our second lawyer, Martha Doty, here: http://www.alston.com/professionals/martha-doty/.

How will the money be spent?

The attorneys in the case have been very generous with their time and are either working pro bono or at a reduced rate, and for the most part, have deferred their pay so far. While some of the money will be used to reimburse those expenses, the first priority is to pay for a facilitator in the ongoing discussions.

How much money needs to be raised?

We are hoping to raise $75,000 towards this cause. We believe that to be a sufficient amount to cover the costs incurred to date and through the ongoing discussions between both parties.

Why is it so much money?

Intimate theater means a lot to us here in Los Angeles and is a vibrant part of the cultural landscape of this city. As theater artists, we seek to produce the highest quality work. If we do not come to an agreement, the entire ecosystem of our theaters could dissolve over a number of years. With such high stakes, we have sought out the highest quality professionals to assist us in our cause. They have been very generous with us, but as we all know, the legal system is an expensive process to navigate.

Why don’t the ‘celebrities’ just pay for it?

It is true that many of the advocates for intimate theater are actors with recognizable faces. In fact, many of those artists have already been very generous in promoting our cause, but this is a COMMUNITY effort and we all have something to lose. If you are passionate about intimate theater in Los Angeles, we are asking for your contribution. We can’t expect others to put in all of the work for us, and the vast majority of theater artists in Los Angeles don’t have recognizable names. The right dollar amount will be different for each of us, but we do need community-wide participation.

Is my contribution tax deductible?

Because the money is being used toward a legal case, your contribution is not tax deductible, and for tax purposes is considered a personal gift to the plaintiffs.

Who can contribute?

Anyone can! Whether you are a theater company, a member of Actors’ Equity, a theater artist, an audience member, or a passionate stakeholder of any kind, you are welcome to contribute to the cause of crafting a settlement between the parties that has the consensus and backing of the Los Angeles theater community.

What happens to any leftover money?

We don’t believe there will be any leftover money as the legal process is expensive. If we are able to raise more than we need, we will preserve the money until a final settlement is reached between the plaintiffs and AEA. At that time, and once all attorneys are paid in full, the plaintiffs in the case have pledged to put the money toward programs that promote intimate theater.

Is this all the money we will need?

We sincerely hope so, and are hopeful that an agreement can be reached during the discussions. If not, the lawsuit will proceed and we anticipate the costs of that to be far greater. The community is prepared to raise that money if such a step becomes necessary.

What do we hope will be achieved through these discussions?

We hope that the two parties can reach a settlement that has the backing and consensus of the Los Angeles theater community. Such an agreement would have the best interests of AEA members at heart, with the majority of members in support. It would have the backing of the vast majority of theater companies in Los Angeles, and allow for a healthy ecosystem that encourages growth, so that our intimate theater landscape can continue to thrive and survive for decades.

Who is ‘WE’?

This campaign was created by a small committee of dedicated Los Angeles theater artists at the behest of interested stakeholders that include both theater companies, plaintiffs in the case, and members of AEA. We ALL have a role to play and many individuals have been working hard over the last 12 months to make sure a new agreement is reached. Specifically, this campaign was created by Greg Crafts (member of AEA, SAG-AFTRA, Dramatists Guild, TPLLA*, and Managing Director of Theatre Unleashed), James Esposito (member of TPLLA and Artistic Director of Chromolume Theatre), Lisa Glass (member of AEA and SAG-AFTRA), and Kevin Meoak (member of AEA, SAG-AFTRA, TPLLA, and Managing Director of Loft Ensemble).

*Theatrical Producers League of Los Angeles

**** 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. 

 

 

Business of Acting

Fran Montano
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Business of Acting

If you’ve followed my blogs over the past several years you’ll notice that in January I start with a conversation about the Business of Acting.

I tell actors that you are a business and need a business plan.

I emphasize the importance to set goals, then create and execute tasks. And most of all, be accountable. You are your own boss. In January, I invite all my advanced students to participate in an intensive workshop where we face our demons, set goals, and put ourselves into action. If you’d like to review any of the past posts and notes on this topic, you can email me at fran@actorsworkout.com, and I’ll be happy to send them to you.
This year, instead of repeating myself once again, I thought I’d post a commentary that one of my students wrote recently regarding her experience in doing this kind of work. Many actors have found her remarks be an inspiration and a kick in the ass to get yourself moving.

You too can do this!

Post from Amanda Serra –

Carbon Dating was conceived during a Business of Acting class at the Actors Workout Studio in 2014. Fran Montano spoke on the importance of actors making their own work, and offered several examples of inexpensive and effective ways actors can assist their careers by continuously working and honing their skills. He insisted that the common excuses of “I can’t get an audition” or “no one will cast me” were just that – excuses.

“Cast yourselves!” He exclaimed and then went on to list everything from recording a monologue on your smart phone to writing/producing/starring in your feature film. My very good friend, Marcie Barkin was sitting next to me in class and whispered, “I’d love to do a web series, but I’m not a writer.”

I whispered back, “I am.”

“Good,” She said, “write us something.”

Inspired, I sent Marcie episodes as they were completed and her positive responses of HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAA encouraged me to complete the first season. Okay. Done. Now what?

My experience has always been in front of the camera/audience. I had never produced a series, but I thought I would gather my friends together, everyone would pitch in and maybe I’d spend a couple thousand dollars on the whole thing. I ran ideas past Fran and he suggested that I find someone who has production experience in my circle of colleagues and pick their brains, so I approached Linda Palmer a producer/director acquaintance of mine and ask her to mentor me for one episode. She read the entire season, fell in love with the series and wanted to produce it with me. Linda brought in Michael Gross (Family Ties, Tremors) as the leading man and producer. Suddenly, what started out as a little web series with a borrowed camera and a group of my friends became a fully produced series with a professional production team, crew and star! It also cost way more than a couple thousand dollars…

I created Poke In The Eye Productions, LLC and Palmer suggested that I co-direct with her and took me under her wing. From pre- to post-production, she patiently led me through a Masters level crash course in film production. I learned everything from breaking down scripts to calling shots; developing a budget to approaching investors; and music licensing to marketing. By the time the first episode was released, I was confidant I could produce another season and other projects without hesitation.

The journey from the Business of Acting class to the airing of the season finale of Carbon Dating began because Fran challenged me to take control of my career and guide it forward. Yes, it’s scary when stepping outside comfort zones, but it’s thrilling, too. Thank you, Fran and the Actors Workout Studio for providing an inspiring, challenging and creative space for actors to stretch themselves in all directions!

Carbon Dating Season 1 episodes 1-9 can be watched on You Tube at

http://www.youtube.com/c/carbondating series
Please Subscribe! Comment! Like!

Please Subscribe! Comment!  Like

Other links to Carbon Dating fun and information:

https://www.facebook.com/carbondatingseries

http://www.carbondatingseries.com/

Congratulations to Amanda Serra! What a creative, inspiring, project she created for herself, and for the world to see.

What Amanda didn’t include in her post was that the show was submitted to several festivals and received the following awards:

  1. Best Web Series, Best Women Film Makers and Best Editing at the Hollywood International Moving Pictures Film Festival. (http://www.himpff.com).
  2. Best Web Series and Best Women Film Makers at the Los Angeles Independent Film Festival. (http://www.laiffawards.com).  
  3. Bronze winner at the International Independent Film Awards. (http://www.iifilmawards.com/IIFA_Home.html) 
  4. Best Web Series from the Women’s Only Entertainment Film Festival.  (http://woefilmfest.wix.com/bi-monthly).  
  5. An Award of Merit for Web Series from Accolade Global Film Festival and IndieFEST.  (http://accoladecompetition.org) (http://theindiefest.com)

I heard that there are even more but this is all I have available at this time. I wish you all the best in the New Year and yes, you can create your career. May all your dreams come true! Have a Happy New Year.

A Collection Agency for Artists and Freelancers?

Lisa Bianconi
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Welcome to the neighborhood, Freelance Collection. Artists don’t have to work for free.

So you’re an artist, a freelance artist and you did a fabulous job for a client. But they refuse to pay you for your work. Is this fair? No! What can you do about it? Go to Freelance Collection to help you get the payment you worked hard for. Just because you’re an artist doesn’t mean you have to work for free. Our independent spirit keeps our neighborhood thriving. It shouldn’t be hindered by some who refuse to honor a contract. We always say: “NoHo is only as good as its people.” Meet North Hollywood resident Howie and his business partner Steve, the folks behind Freelance Collection. We’re glad they’re in the neighborhood and are here to help our artists and freelancers.

Freelance Collections in North Hollywood www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Why did you start Freelance Collection?

Howie and I have both freelanced and consulted on and off throughout our careers. Last year, Howie’s wife, a web developer, took on her first freelance project for a client who stopped returning her emails when it came time to pay. She was frustrated with the whole situation and didn’t have the time or experience to deal with it. Howie rolled up his sleeves, researched her legal options, and, through persistence, finally got the client to pay.

Howie told me the story and said, “A lot of freelancers have this problem. What would you think about starting a company to help them solve it?” He didn’t know it at the time, but I had experienced a similarly frustrating experience earlier in my career, when I was an independent management consultant. So when I did a little research, I quickly found that he was on to something, and I got excited about the mission of using ethical collections practices to help under-resourced people get what they’re owed from companies who think they can take advantage.

Howie and I grew up together in Weston, FL, and we’ve been friends ever since, though we never thought we’d end up in business together. He’s a freelance creative writer who has worked in TV, graphic novels, interactive games, advertising, and marketing. I’m a tech company founder a couple times over. Most notably, I co-founded Tuition.io, which lets employers make payments toward their employees’ student loans.

So there’s no muscle involved. How can Freelance Collection help local artists?

If you’re an artist (or any other kind of creative freelancer or small business, for that matter), and you aren’t paid for work up front, you might have the misfortune of working for/selling to a nonpaying client or customer. You’re not alone. 77% of freelancers face client nonpayment at some point in their career.

Sadly, it’s a frequent occurrence: When you’ve already done the work, your client thinks they have all the power, so they’ll decide paying you isn’t as important as paying other bills. They might ignore you altogether, or maybe they’ll tell you they’re not paying for some crazy reason such as, “The work wasn’t used,” or “I didn’t like the format of the bill you sent me.” (Those are real examples!)

You can (and should) use phone calls, emails, formal letters, and in-person visits to demand that they pay you. You can sue in Small Claims or Municipal Court, depending on the amount. If you want to undertake those efforts yourself, we applaud you. But most people don’t know how to make the legal system work for them, don’t want to deal with the frustration, or simply don’t have the time to keep the pressure on with continued communication, demands, and negotiation.

If you don’t want to go that do-it-yourself route, your option is to find a collection agency or a lawyer to take your case. People react differently when they’re contacted by a collections professional, because frankly, it’s scarier than dealing with an individual. And for the individual, working with a professional removes the headaches and heartbreak of having a client (whom you may have considered a friend) refuse payment for your hard work.

These professionals can use tactics that aren’t available to the individual artist (like dinging someone’s credit score, assigning liens, and garnishing wages). They know how to deal with all the tricks a deadbeat can pull — and there are many. But finding the right collection agency or lawyer likely won’t go smoothly for you: First, you won’t have any way to tell the good ones from the bad ones, because their websites all look about the same. Second, they might not give you the time of day, because to them, you’re a small fish.

We created Freelance Collection to solve all those problems for you. We’ve researched and assembled a vetted network of the top collection agencies and lawyers, and they want to work with us, because we send them lots of cases. There’s never an upfront fee. We only make money when you get paid. And you never pay more than you would if you found the collection agency on your own.

Freelance Collections in North Hollywood www.nohoartsdistrict.com

How can artists protect themselves when selling their work?

I could write a novel here, but here are a few quick tips:
• Don’t work for sketchy clients. If someone rubs you the wrong way, trust your instincts.
• Use a contract, even if you’re working for a friend. There are good, free templates that are easy to find online. Find one that includes clear payment terms and a late fee.
• Get payment upfront and at intervals throughout the project’s duration. If you’re doing contract/freelance work or if your client is commissioning a piece of art, this is normal.
• If the payments stop coming, stop working! Don’t let them string you along.

Do you have a success story you’d like to share?

Because each case is confidential, we can’t disclose too many specifics, but there are a few cases that make me particularly proud. One that comes to mind involves a freelance writer who continued to work for her client for four months without being paid, based on his promise that the money was on its way. We found out that the client was a serial nonpayer and had filed for bankruptcy in the past to avoid paying his freelancers. We started to get the feeling he never intended to pay her a dime. But we now have him on a payment plan, and we’re well on the way to collecting $4,000 in full.

Do you have any last parting words?

One important piece of advice: Be impatient when it comes to collecting. Whether you go the do-it-yourself route or you come to us, collecting overdue payments becomes less likely as time passes. Industry-wide, there’s about a 70% success rate at 90 days overdue, but that drops to 52% at 6 months and just 23% after 1 year.

Spread the word that they’re here to help.

WEBSITE  | TWITTER | FACEBOOK 

**** 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. 

 

THE HIDDEN ARTIST – A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A “THRIFTY” WARDROBE STYLIST

nohoarts
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THE HIDDEN ARTIST
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A “THRIFTY” WARDROBE STYLIST

I know a woman with an amazing theatre background from the east coast. You’d automatically think, “Ah—she must be so cool and stylish,” but to see her at first glance, you’d think she never shopped at any place but WalMart—and I mean the sale rack at WalMart. I’ve stood next to women dressed in Prada jackets all the way down to Gucci shoes. Most of them set off their outfits with some version of the same stupid brown leather bag stamped with someone’s (but I won’t say who’s) initials all over it because they believe their image can only be dictated by the small percentage of fashion designers who sell them their identity. Be it WalMart or Barneyss, there are a lot of women (yes, and men too) who lack something called style.

Style, according to Merriam-Webster, is a distinctive manner of expression, or custom of behaving, or a manner in which something is done, created, performed or worn.

I don’t know about you, but that screams uniqueness to me, not cookie-cut, regardless of whose name is on the label and no matter what the current fashion trend is. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not down on fashion, the trend, or the designers who produce it. I just can’t, nor will I, pay top dollar for something I most likely can create on my own. That’s where thrift shops come in. Without getting into whether they are for profit or not, I personally want to thank God for Goodwill, Out of the Closet, NCJW Council Thrift, Valley Thrift, and Salvation Army to name just a few.

Perhaps, you’re muttering under your breath, that people like me are blessed with something often referred to as “a sense of style.” Granted, my background experience is heavy with retail fashion work (both high and low) and I’ve spent most of my life here in Los Angeles working in the TV industry as a costumer. But my so-called sense began with these words, “I don’t give a shit what you think.” Of course, that mindset can be pretty dangerous when used out of context—like blurting out insults at your supervisor during a morning meeting. Although, I never did that, I haven’t cared much for following the herd, especially when it came to how I dressed.

Hypothetically, I’d like to take you through my day at the thrift store.

To begin with, we must start with the attitude “I don’t give a shit what you think.” That means not caring what your friends think of you for exposing yourself to such degradation or you minding who you might be shopping next to in that aisle of moth-holed sweaters because you WILL most likely run into some woman who is having a small episode with Tourette’s Syndrome. Basically, you create a bubble around yourself and begin your hunt. For me, the hunt is in the kill. The kill, to be specific of me only, is a designer item or something of great quality that is in good condition in my size and is under $15. Back in the day, I could bring home bags and bags of clothing being the size 8 I was. Naturally that made me broke, but “KILL! KILL! KILL!” was my motto. Now that I’m older, menopause does not a thrift store junkie change—only her body. Thus the kill means A LOT more to me if I find something in a large/extra-large or size 14.

Now, that we have your new attitude in check, there a few basic guidelines to help you find your kill, or kills (given you are lucky enough to be smaller than myself).

Know what neckline looks best on you. Deep U-shapes and V’s look great on me. Round looks nicer on other women. I don’t buy tailored collars, but mandarin style. For one, a tailored collar is way too conservative for someone who doesn’t give a shit what other people think. A mandarin style is—well, different. Next, know what it is you want to show off and what you want to hide…like those muffin tops. Something blouson and gathered into a hip band is a perfect camouflage for that. Have a general idea of what your flattering colors are. Are you Spring—bright, sunny, turquoise, salmon, watermelon, or Summer—pastel rose, periwinkle, sage, or Autumn—earthy, natural moss, terra cotta, rust, or Winter—crisp, distinctive jewel tones, black, and white? Learn a little bit about fabric. It used to be we only had purity to contend with—wools, silks, and cottons, then came polyesters and rayons. Today there is so much crap out there that it makes me want to scream. Basically, they will be found in Chinese manufactured labels from cheaper department stores like WalMart, Kohl’s, Target, Sears, etc., but they’ve made their way to H&M, Forever 21, and even Chico’s. Basically, I still go for the pure—cashmere, wool, cotton, and silk, which is finally making its way back to replace those hideous polyesters. As far as brands go, Banana Republic, J. Crew, Gap, some Target items, and Ann Taylor are pretty good mid-range labels to buy. If you are familiar with the designers carried at Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Ave., Barneys, specialty boutiques, or even some of those at Macy’s, you’ve pretty much made a score.

For some women, classic styles are best. Let’s face it, how many different ways can one fashion a button-down cardigan?

You might as well hold on to those for half a century. For people like me, a little quirk is better—a zipper at the shoulder or an asymmetrical body. My only advice is to steer away from trends that thankfully left the current market. Like those oversized butterfly sleeves or the irregular printing technique on pressed-in wrinkles that found its way to every high and low-end department store a few years back, or worse, those God-forsaken cardigan sweaters with all that stupid front-flowing lapel work. What? Three years of that shit wasn’t enough? Jeez. But do use some fashion faux pas to your benefit. Those extremely oversized XS tops from two years ago will fit a larger woman today and have her in the current style trend at the same time.

And here are some thrift store hints.

The more organized the store, the quicker the shop. Places like Valley Thrift, some Goodwill stores, and NCJW Council Thrift Stores itemize by colors and length of sleeves. Sometimes you might even find a plus-size section set apart from everything else. Keep in mind that places like Out of the Closet and Salvation Army aren’t as organized, but they tend to have “designer” sections and, with a little bit more patience, you might still find a treasure in the mill.

In closing, I want to say the best part of thrift shopping is recycling it back in—and it’s guilt free because you didn’t spend hundreds of dollars. Fashion trends are so short-lived now. It used to be our country’s world status and economics dictated womenswear—hemlines, shoulder pads, and hats. But today, anything goes. And if anything goes, you might as well have a little fun creating something yourself. As for me—I’m gonna leave this world when I’m done dressed like little ol’ me…or better yet, Iris Apfel.

“COURTESY OF VANITY FAIR MAGAZINE”

Reviews of The Revenant; Carol; Bone Tomahawk

Mike Peros
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Reviews of The Revenant; Carol; Bone Tomahawk

Leonardo DiCaprio certainly undergoes a tremendous physical and emotional ordeal in The Revenant, Alejandro G. Inarritu’s follow-up to his highly praised Birdman.

Whether his labors will/should be rewarded with an Oscar…let’s talk about that later.

DiCaprio sheds any trace of boyish charm as grizzled trapper Hugh Glass, a guide for a weary group of trappers in the unfriendly wilderness (weather, Indians, other trappers) circa 1823. After the trapping party is decimated by marauding Indians (a graphic, intense sequence), Glass tries to lead the survivors to safety. Unfortunately while scouting, he is attacked and eventually mauled by a bear (this scene, while effective, also leaves one in doubt of Glass’ supposed skills—after all, it is the second time in the film he is caught unawares—and a half-hour hasn’t even elapsed). Along with Glass’ half-Pawnee son Hawk, two fellow trappers, Fitzgerald and Bridger accept the offer/challenge to care for the seemingly dying Glass. While Bridger (Will Poulter) acts out of concern for Glass, Fitzgerald’s (Tom Hardy) motivation is the prospect of recouping some lost profits. When it becomes clear to Fitzgerald that Glass isn’t going to die anytime soon, Fitzgerald tries to kill Glass—then murders Glass’ son when he intervenes. Fitzgerald and Bridger then abandon Glass, after Fitzgerald convinces Bridger that pursuing Indians are nearby.

The remainder of the film depicts Glass’ agonizing struggle to survive, juxtaposed with Fitzgerald and Bridger’s journey to the safety of the fort.

Hardy (very effective) and Poulter make for interesting travel companions, as the conscience-stricken Bridger is goaded and tested by the brutal, pragmatic Fitzgerald. However the bulk of the film belongs to DiCaprio, depicting Glass’ desire to reach civilization, and exact his vengeance on the unrepentant Fitzgerald. He certainly endures a great deal of punishment, whether it’s escaping in the freezing rapids, or using a horse for something other than nature intended. For a sheer physical endurance award, DiCaprio would win hands down, but Best Actor…?? He’s certainly convincing as the freezing, agonized trapper…but then again Inarritu was filming under freezing, agonizing conditions. In other ways the writer/director Inarritu stacks the emotional deck, granting DiCaprio’s Glass a fictitious Indian wife (whom we learn has been murdered) and son, providing a number of flashbacks and visions that (should) enhance our sympathy for Glass, and supplying a late setback which tests not only Glass’s endurance but our belief in the proceedings. When it comes time for scores to be settled, the movie drags a bit, though the final reckoning is well done. While The Revenant is strikingly photographed and convincing on a visceral level, it still lacks the emotional wallop it was seeking.

Review of Carol

Carol, based on Patricia Highsmith’s The Price of Salt, also looks to be emotionally resonant, as it is set in the 1950s and has, at its core, a romantic relationship between two disparate women: Carol, an upper-crust soon-to-be divorcee (Cate Blanchett) and Therese, a department store sales woman with a talent for photography (Rooney Mara). Their growing affection for each other, in spite of class distinctions and societal taboos of the time (not to mention a resentful, resourceful husband (nicely played by Kyle Chandler), is painstakingly depicted but doesn’t move one as much as it would like. One problem is it’s hard to understand the attraction between the two, given the gulf between Carol’s reserve (at least as Blanchett portrays her) and Mara’s (appealing) blend of innocence and inquisitiveness. Highsmith’s novel was ahead of its time; Todd Haynes’ film hearkens back to the 1950s in style and effect. However (as with Haynes’ Far From Heaven), the emotional impact is blunted as the viewer isn’t given ample opportunity to sympathize with Carol and Therese’s plight. The film presumes that merely identifying and presenting the situation will warrant an emotional reaction from the viewer, but that may not be the case here—in spite of the efforts of Mara and Blanchett.

Review of Bone Tomahawk

Bone Tomahawk. What’s that? You haven’t heard of it? That’s not surprising, given its limited theatrical release.

However, it’s on Amazon Prime now, and you should give it a chance, since it is a tense, satisfying amalgam of both the western and the horror film. The movie opens as two cutthroats (literally) disturb what seems to be an Indian burial ground—one is promptly killed, while the other (David Arquette) makes it to the town of Bright Hope. We are then introduced to the main characters, including a hurt Patrick Wilson, his wife (and doctor’s assistant) Lili Simmons, and likable, devoted old deputy Richard Jenkins), and Kurt Russell’s savvy sheriff (back in the saddle before The Hateful Eight). The suspicious sheriff Russell arrests Arquette, but soon after Arquette, Simmons (who has been tending to his wounds) and another deputy are abducted from the jail—leading Russell and company on a long, hot journey to rescue them. What they don’t know is the true nature of the kidnappers—I’ll leave you to discover that. Suffice it to say S. Craig Zahler’s deliberately paced film takes time to develop the characters’ relationships and the action, sporadic at first builds in intensity and frequency as the pursuers near the kidnappers. Russell and Jenkins are especially good, as is Wilson, for whom the journey turns into a test of courage and endurance akin to that of DiCaprio’s (only in a warmer climate). While the journey is a tad overlong, it is worth a look.

Who are YOU going to hug today?

Lisa Bianconi
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January 21 is International Hugging Day – Instead of a handshake – Give a Hug

Start hugging North Hollywood! January 21 is International Hugging Day. It Kevin Zaborney created National Hugging Day in 1986 and has now gone international. January 21 was chosen because it marks the midpoint between Christmas and Valentines day, where people seem to be at their emotional low point. The holiday was created because Zaborney felt like Americans are embarrassed to show their feelings in public and hoped that a National Hug Day would change that. So, NoHo, let’s get to hugging.

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The Benefits of Hugging – Studies have shown that human contact has many health benefits and this human touch can improves both psychological and physical development. Hugging can also help build a good immune system, decrease the risk of heart disease, and decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol in women. It has been shown that a couple who hugs for 20 seconds has higher levels of oxytocin, and that those who were in a loving relationship exhibited a highest increase. According to the American Psychosomatic Society, a hug or 10 minutes of holding hands with a romantic partner can help reduce stress.

HUGGING 101

We all hug in different ways and the way we hug can tell a person how we feel about them…. The Back to Front Hug is the perfect way to give support and affection to someone, even if they are busy carrying out a task like the washing up! Receiving a Back to Front Hug shows that you have someone who is always there for you and is a way of expressing love and affection for that person irrespective of what is received in return.

The Bear Hug is one of the hugs that we all consider to be the strongest. By squeezing your hugging partner gently, you can instantly give them reassurance and affection. But people tend to use Bear Hugs when they are excited or when they want to display strong affection. However remember, the best Bear Hugs require moderate squeezing not suffocating!

The Cheek Hug on the other hand is the complete opposite. We use the Cheek Hug when we need to comfort someone or show affection but this type of hug also allows us to keep our distance at the same time. The Cheek Hug may be used by anyone – elderly people who may not be able to hug tightly, people who are seated, colleagues, acquaintances and even friends and family.

The Side to Side Hug is a common sight we all see almost everyday. Most of us have all strolled down the road locked in a Side to Side Hug with someone. This casual hug allows us to demonstrate our affection for one another without being too intimate. It is also a way of conveniently hugging whilst carrying out other tasks such as walking, sitting down next to each other and standing in a queue for example.

The Heart Centred Hug is one we all enjoy. A slow, intimate and well-needed Heart Hug can lift anyone’s spirits and is the perfect way to show close family, friends and partners how much you care!

(Ref) http://www.easier.com/31293-a-hug-a-day-keeps-the-blues-away.html

**** 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.

NoHo News: TV Academy, Free Beer, Zombie Driveby, SoloFest, Pillars of NY

Lisa Bianconi
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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…ENJOY NOHO!

**** 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. What are you doing in NoHo this weekend? Here’s the NoHo eNews. www.nohoartsdistrict.com www.nohoartsdistrict.com, noho news, north hollywood news, noho calendar, north Hollywood calendar, things to do in noho, things to do in north Hollywood, noho arts district, noho events, north Hollywood events, north hollywood theatres, theatre reviews, l.a. theatre tickets, north hollywood plays, noho plays, noho musicals, north hollywood musicals, theatre in los angeles, l.a. theatre district, dance district, noho dance studios, official noho guide  

“Top Hats and Tiaras”, a Parade for Pets

nohoarts
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Did your pets get to ring in the new year? Now they can. Join us for the first “pet parade” in 2016!

A while back, I wrote about Los Angeles being one of the best pet-friendly cities in the country, and growing events like these continue to prove me right. A Halloween event had such a great turn out that the Port of Los Angeles decided to keep it going. This will be the fourth pet parade since it all started, but this particular parade is the first of the year.

Aside from the costuming and parading, these events simply offer a time and place to meet other Angelenos and their pets, which has been the greatest benefit of it all according to past attendees. Costumes aren’t required and participation is free, San Pedro and Wilmington communities host to make sure all you need to do is show up (ah, Los Angeles!).

Join the crowd at 9 a.m. this Saturday morning at the San Pedro Waterfront (504 S. Harbor Blvd).

pet2

In past parades, there were treat stations and social media stops along the way, which is perfect because you were just looking for the next greatest selfie with Fido, weren’t you?

All pets are welcome so long as they are on their respective leashes and carriers. That means we should see some of you cat parents with felines who rock tiaras and top hats like only they can…(let’s face it, dog dads and moms, cats have that innate royalty thing going on).

I mean, come on.

pet3

These pet costume parades are set to happen every third Saturday of the month all throughout 2016 in either San Pedro or Wilmington, so if you can’t make this weekend, don’t worry; “Be My Valentine” parade is on February 20th, then St. Patrick’s Day theme on March 23rd. Check their schedule for dates lined up for the entire year.

So the events come full circle, donations for the local shelters are accepted at the parades. They can be in the form of pet food, blankets, etc., or monetary donations. Maybe you have an extra pet costume lying around that you can donate or better, dress a foster pet in something warm and bring him to the parade! You’re guaranteed to boost his morale and you might meet someone to adopt.

If you can’t wait until the weekend, you can always donate to your local shelter or foster a pet at any time. Like BamBam and Lady…

NoHo’s Featured Pet of the Month

pet4

My name is Bambam and I am a spayed female, calico Domestic Shorthair.

The shelter thinks I am about 15 years old.

I weigh approximately 21 pounds.

I have been at the shelter since Jan 03, 2016.

For animals under the age of 8 weeks and/or moms with litters, please contact the Center for availability.

Adoption fees include spay/neuter surgery, all animals will be sterilized prior to release.

Watch BamBam with the cat she’s bonded with.

Adopt BamBam.

A Zombie Theatre Drive By in NoHo

Lisa Bianconi
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Huh? So what will NoHo’s Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre do in 50 hours?

What can you do in 50 hours? Well Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre (ZJU) does a theatre festival. Just an FYI, NoHo is a theatre district. We have the highest concentration of theatres outside of NYC. But what the NoHo Arts District dot Com team likes to highlight is the type of theatres we have in the neighborhood. If you are new to theatre or an aficionado, you have to check out one or all of the shows at ZJU – creative, scary, funny, turbo from anything from new works and Halloween spectaculars to musicals and even the classics. Every show has the Zombie Joe flair we like to say. Well every January, the hardworking folks at ZJU take 50 hours and create a theatre festival. Yep. Just a typical weekend in North Hollywood. Tickets go fast, so get them now!

So, what exactly is The 50-Hour Drive By Theatre Festival? ?

The 50-Hour Drive By Theatre Festivalwas started in 2002 when Jeri Batzdorff came to Zombie Joe with the idea of doing a short play festival. They decided that it would be best to do it in 50 hours, rather than 24, to allow more time to rehearse and to create a more cohesive show. The writers are randomly assigned actors, and three props that must be written into the framework of the play. It’s an incredible challenge for all company members, which is why so many want to do it again the following year.

What’s new about this year’s 50-Hour Drive By Theatre Festival?

Well our Underground is more amazing and hungrier than ever to get chompin’ into our 2016 line-up! We have an unsurpassed Underground-slate of veteran and all-new Writers, Directors and Performers (including the Killer-Kevin Van Cott on Miscellaneous Musical Instruments and Our Die-Hard,True-Blue 1-&-Only ZJU Webmaster and Sound Engineer Randy “Kernel” Long – these boy arrive READY TO ROCK!), this and more, MORE ambitious and momentous than ever before…all in the makings for an incredible DRIVE-BY weekend, with a couple wild new surprises, of course 🙂

How do you pick the writers/actors/etc?

Everyone involved was invited-in through our dark, mysterious and passcode-encrypted channels, from past Drive-Bys’, and some super-cool-new-peeps we’ve been begging to work with for a while. Truly a hard-hitting crew, not to be missed!

Any last words?

Looking forward to one heck of a weekend, come ‘on down and witness the fun and madness! Performances run this SAT, SUN & MON @ 8:30p for our Fabulous 15th Annual DRIVE-BY THEATRE FESTIVAL!, Kicking-Off Zombie Joe’s Underground’s 24th Season…and WE WANT YOU!

15th Annual 50 HOUR DRIVE-BY THEATRE FESTIVAL at Zombie Joe's Underground Theatre in the NoHo Arts District www.nohoartsdistrict.com

WHAT: ZJU’s Fabulous 15th Annual 50 HOUR DRIVE-BY THEATRE FESTIVAL! Zombie Joe’s Underground’s fabulous 15th Annual Festival of (4) all-new mini-plays – Written, directed and performed (and created to AMAZE) in a speedy 2 days! Featuring a live musical score by Kevin Van Cott. ZJU Theatre Group’s spectacular annual theatre event, kicking-off our ambitious 2016 season.

WHEN: January 23-25 only!
(3) Performances over One weekend only: Saturday, Sunday and Monday @ 8:30PM

WHERE: ZJU Theatre Group
4850 Lankershim Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91601

TICKETS: Only $15

RESERVATIONS: 818-202-4120

WEBSITE: ZombieJoes.com

Advance Tickets On Sale for All Performances at ZombieJoes.Tix.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.  

Ziggy Stardust and his alter ego David Bowie

Caroline McElroy
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Ziggy Stardust and his alter ego David Bowie have impacted my life in big ways since back in the 70’s. I adore Bowie’s “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust” LP and wore the darn thing out, also had a brush with him when a few of my good friends at the time went to see a performance of his when he burst into a tirade at them about them being Jimmy Page’s witches.

I also confess that for a time, I sported a Bowie “Ziggy Stardust” hair cut identical to the cover of the LP.

It all seems like water under the bridge and a moot point…until

A few months ago I shot Street Artist Space Invader a bit on Bowie’s “Moonage Daydream” just for some sport…tee hee. Didn’t hear back until Bowie passed away and then Space Invader used that reference as a tribute/homage to him. Our love affair began about a year ago as I was working on my first book on Street Art in Paris and was looking up some of the artists that I had catalogued.

In fact, as I posted my intentions of using a photo for my column that I shot in Paris from a cab, #spaceinvaderparis marked my copy of the photo that I was thinking about using and chose it to use. So it goes in the world of artists.

Bowie has left an imprint on so many artists and performers that it is hard to imagine anything that I do not having some sort of Bowie influence. None. It’s a safe bet that even Yoko Ono had her share of inspiration from Bowie…no doubt about it. After all, the man did pick up Sean Ono Lennon when he was in Switzerland and spent quality time with the lad after his father, John Lennon, had been assassinated. Lennon and Bowie had collaborated on projects together.

There are so many stories, so much music to tell about and so little space.

“Jean Genie”, “Let’s Dance”, “Rebel Rebel”, “Heros”, “Cat People”, “Blackstar” are all excellent ear candy and his remakes of classics such as “Where Have All The Good Times Gone” by The Kinks, “Like A Rolling Stone” by Bob Dylan are just a few of his stand out interpretations.

Bowie’s performance in the stellar 2006 film “The Prestige” was a dark and haunting reminder of how creepy things can get when two genius magicians compete. Nikola Tesla portrayed as never before.

I knew that Bowie had not been feeling well, but had no idea that it was as bad as it really was. The same thing happened when actress Angela McEwan passed away on December 20…many were shocked to hear who the dreaded culprit was…cancer.

Bowie’s name had been buzzing around for awhile prior to his passing because many thought he was making a comeback of some sort. He was actually working on his coda… There can be absolutely no comparison between Bowie and any other performance artist. He was the master. A very gifted original.

Bowie’s last artistic days were filled with lots of creative expressions that are destined to rise up to the stars above and shine brightly like no other star in the sky. A fitting tribute to a most talented composer and performance artist. Officially Blackstar debuted at the top of Billboard’s Top 200 Chart. It was released on his 69th birthday and then he crossed over shortly after. “Blackstar” is Bowie’s first #1 album and has broken Adele’s “25” record sales breaker.

Breakfast With The Beatles devoted their Sunday morning show to Bowie on 1/17/2016 and what a wonderful potpourri of truly amazing work was presented. Old tunes that were covers of other well known acts blew me away.

It’s comforting to know that there is an excellent David Bowie tribute band by the name “The Band That Fell to Earth: A David Bowie Odyssey” fronted by an excellent composer in his own right…Julian Shah- Tayler. I’ll still be able to get my Bowie fix when it strikes. As one Bowie fan put it “Ziggy Stardust has gone home to Blackstar” RIP David Bowie.

I guess that Nick Koff’s version of “Laugh Laugh” by the Beau Brummels and the memory it sparked of a sordid night at the Whiskey A Go Go in the dressing room with The Grass Roots and The Beau Brummels will have to wait until another time. Did spot a piece of art outside of The Trip where Koff was playing the gig that reminded me a bit of Space Invader. The artist’s name is Blake Bower and the mural rocks with icons: Janis Joplin, Slash, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix and Carly Simon.

Been working with Promoter Adam Mays to bring a very cool band to NoHo by the name of The Dogs. We go back to the Coconut Teazer and Club Lingerie. Loren Molinare, The Dogs’ frontman and force to be reckoned with, is a seasoned veteran of the LA Rock Scene. It was Molinare that informed me that an Iron Butterfly concert that I had attended in the 60’s at the The Shrine Expo actually had a blank screen and that the only light show going on was the one in our heads…oops there goes the religious experience that my friend Larry had at that show. He thought that he saw God and wanted to go read The Bible. I thought that I saw Native American warriors passing around a peace pipe. Sigh

It also doesn’t hurt that Molinare’s other band is Little Caesar of “Chain Of Fools” fame.

The Dogs only play where it’s cool and happening and I think that NoHo Arts District is living up to the moniker of cool and happening. Fingers crossed!

Boozy Birthday Brunch at Idle Hour NoHo

Lisa Bianconi
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Photo by Trishna Patel @TrishListLA

Birthday. Brunch. Booze. NoHo.

For my birthday, I chose to brunch at Idle Hour, NoHo Art District’s famously, refurbished barrel bar on a quiet section of Vineland Avenue.

Just a short walk from my apartment, I was eager to show my friends the bar’s striking architecture, tasty food and drink, and interesting history. (I’ve recently started personally boycotting Uber rides over $30.)

Founded in the 1940s, Idle Hour’s exterior — a giant-sized wooden barrel — was meant to attract drivers passing by and it still does to this day. In 2015, it was remodeled by the 1933 group, a restoration company that specializes in opening themed bars in the city’s various emerging neighborhoods.

The TrishlistLA www.nohoartsdistrict.com Idle Hour
Photo by Trishna Patel @TrishListLA

I requested we sit on their back patio, which features a replica of the famous Bulldog Cafe that served Angelenos from 1928 to 1960. During the weekends, there’s also live music from 11 am-3 pm, the perfect ambiance for any champagne-filled Sunday Funday (Several renditions of ‘Happy Birthday’ may or may not have been requested).

I once read that Idle Hour’s owners thought it’d be “popular for local millennials priced out of high rent districts”. However, the majority of the “regulars” I meet there are from all over L.A.– from downtown to Los Feliz, and as far as the West side, which is a testament to the bar’s eclectic appeal.

So check out Idle Hour this weekend and tell ’em Trish sent you! I’ll bet my next boozy brunch you’ll be back! “

The TrishlistLA www.nohoartsdistrict.com Idle Hour
Photo by Trishna Patel @TrishListLA

Tag/follow me @TrishListLA    Twitter | Instagram

 

Trishna Patel www.nohoartsdistrict.com    
Photo credit @sifuentes    

Who’s Trishna?

Trishna Patel is a video producer and host for the Los Angeles Times. She also most recently took over as Editor of their Socalmoments photography blog, which engages Times’ readers by featuring work from the local community.

As a native Angeleno, Trishna attended undergrad at UCLA where she competed on their NCAA championship-winning gymnastics team. And though she’ll always bleed blue and gold, she later went on to receive her masters in journalism from USC.

When she’s not scouring the city’s happy hours for the most interesting cheese plate or gearing up for the next L.A. marathon, Trishna travels around the world, writing about her many adventures and must-see hot spots. Her favorite cities include London, Mumbai, Jerusalem and of course, the NoHo Arts District!

@TrishlistLA  Twitter  |  Instagram

**** 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.

 

Spoken word comes back to town at The Victory Theatre

Lisa Bianconi
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Backstory returns to the Victory Theatre Center

Spoken word artists, poets, story tellers, come on out. . The Victory Theatre and BareBones Theatre Company are accepting submissions for the second edition of their bi-monthly spoken word series: BackSTORY – an evening of stories and poems told around a theatrical theme.

WHO: Writers, storytellers and poets to work on short 2-10 minute pieces surrounding a central theme. See below…

WHAT: BackStory – Stories and poems told around a theatrical theme

WHEN: Sunday, February 21st at 7:00pm

THEME: This month’s theme is “The Importance of Being Earnest”

WHERE: Victory Theatre
3326 W. Victory Blvd.
Burbank 91505

SUBMISSION: For information on how to submit to become one of the storytellers or poets for this exciting and entertaining event contact:

Carl Weintraub: itellstories101@gmail.com (Stories)
Laurie O’Brien: lobrienski@gmail.com (Stories)
Adele Slaughter: afspoet@pacbell.net (Poetry)

Put BackSTORY on the subject line
The evening’s participants should be finalized by January 22nd, so get in touch ASAP

Here is how BackStory will work:

Six people will perform. Two will be poets, the others will be storytellers.

The stories may be true personal stories or pieces of fiction. Every poem or story will be a new piece, written expressly for that edition of BackStory.

Here is what will be expected of the participants:

Once you have been asked and have consented to participate, you’re in; no cold feet.

Poets: Ruminating on the theme, poets will write a poem a day for two weeks and send those poems to Adele Slaughter. Adele and the poet will select which of those poems should be developed and then will work together to bring those poems to fruition.

Storytellers: Based on the theme, storytellers will write a 1500 word piece and send it to Carl Weintraub and Laurie O’Brien. Carl and Laurie will work with the writers to bring their stories to fruition.

In other words, participants must be amenable to a productive “back-and-forth” with the producers, working to get the most out of their stories and poems.

Participants must also commit to one rehearsal, which will take place the Sunday before the event at 6:00. At that rehearsal, they will read their pieces to the other participants and get live feedback from each other.

Participants will get all of their friends to come see them so that the house will be full on the night of the event. Just a $10 donation gets them in the door.

Here is how the poets and storytellers will be selected:

We will be compiling a reservoir of potential storytellers and poets. You can get into that reservoir at any time. Our emails are always open. See email submissions above.

How to be considered for BACKStory?

1. Name, contact info, and membership status in the Victory Theatre Company. You don’t have to be in the company to be a part of this.

2. If you have done any of this type of thing before, tell us how many times and where you did it.

3. A writing sample: Something you have written in the past. Not something written for the upcoming theme. You can choose poetry, truth, or fiction, or send us one of each. If it’s poetry, send at least 5 poems.

Once we’ve got all that, you’re in the pool and you can submit yourself for participation in upcoming shows as follows.

Storytellers who have an idea for the specific theme of an upcoming show, pitch that idea in one or two paragraphs.

Poets, submit one short poem around the theme.

The theme for each next show will be announced at the end of the evening of the current show. The theme will always be the title of a play, a movie, or maybe even a TV show.

What’s the criteria?

Story criteria:

True stories should be personal and telling. Humor and depth are a plus. There are stories in all of our lives that speak to the human condition.

These are the stories we’re looking for. They can pertain to the theme in any number of ways, from a personal experience you had with that movie or play, to something else from your life that the title of the movie or play brings up in you.

Fiction: There are many ways to go but remember, storytelling is the mode, so a story told in first person will probably work very nicely in this context. Telling the back story of one of the characters in the movie or play would be interesting. Telling it as that character would be even more interesting. Creating any character and telling a “personal” story, like the true stories above, as that character is another way to go. Stay away from telling just another version of the movie or play. But don’t be afraid to think way outside the box. Just as long as it adheres to the theme.

Poetry criteria:

Again, because it’s a night of storytelling, narrative poetry and free verse will probably go over best. (Although formal verse could work if it really suits the theme.) Submit poetry that makes emotional sense, uses metaphor and is replete with sensual imagery, imagination, and the magic of surprise and juxtaposition. Poetry that does what Keats suggested: It comes upon “the spirit with a fine suddenness—to compare great things with small”. We want poetry that connects heart to heart.

See you on the stage!

**** 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.

2016 Pantone Color of the Year is…Rose Quartz and Serenity.

Christopher Porikos
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2016 Pantone Color of the Year is…Rose Quartz and Serenity.

2016 Pantone Color of the Year is…Rose Quartz and Serenity.

This is the first year Pantone has had two colors selected for the Color of the Year. Their reasoning is quoted here…

“As consumers seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern day stresses, welcoming colors that psychologically fulfill our yearning for reassurance and security are becoming more prominent. Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.

The prevalent combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity also challenges traditional perceptions of color association.

In many parts of the world we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted color trends throughout all other areas of design. This more unilateral approach to color is coinciding with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity, the consumer’s increased comfort with using color as a form of expression, a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged and an open exchange of digital information that has opened our eyes to different approaches to color usage.”

Throughout parts of history, Pink has been associated with men. The ‘red’ from blood and wartime was considered more on the masculine side while the ‘blue’ was associated with the Virgin Mary and somewhat more feminine. Somewhere along the way, the color association switched sides and we all saw the color line drawn in the sand. Today more than ever, people are experimenting with color more and more in their everyday lives. We’ve seen men wearing Pink shirts for years and I know I thought nothing of it.

When it comes to home décor, it can get a little tricky. How many of us are really comfortable designing with shades of pink outside a nursery? Done correctly, I think it’s a great color to use. One client loved it so much we painted her whole condo pink. Now, it wasn’t a vibrant pink or even cotton candy pink, but the lightest shade of pink before going white. It was more like a ‘hint’. It was just enough to warm her space.

Blue, on the other hand, has been in home décor for years and is quite beautiful. Many of us have seen the ‘blue and white’ china and lamps for decades. Or the ‘Hamptons’ feel with blue, white and sand; one of my personal favorites. This year, I feel these colors are more relatable than those of the recent past. However, when choosing a color either as a primary or accent, make sure it’s right for you. Have fun and as always, enjoy!

NoHo News: 25th Bday, Zombie Driveby, Geronimo, Nunsense, That Lovin’ Feelin’ + The Fat Dog

Lisa Bianconi
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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…ENJOY NOHO!

**** 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.

Blood Money: Managing Business Loans Between Relatives

Lillian Appleby
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Blood Money: Managing Business Loans Between Relatives

If both parties focus on the rational, business aspects of the deal, there is a greater chance that the personal — and financial — relationships involved will emerge intact.

Blood Money: Managing Business Loans Between Relatives

Sometimes a family member is the most obvious source of start-up capital for a new business venture. And despite the potential strain such a transaction could put on family ties, it needn’t be a negative experience. If both parties focus on the rational, business aspects of the deal, there is a greater chance that the personal –and financial — relationships involved will emerge intact. Here are some tips for both borrowers and lenders to consider.

Borrower: Don’t pressure the lender to say “yes.”

Lender: If you don’t want to lend money, say so directly and then stand your ground.

Lender: Put everything in writing in the form of a legal contract. That way, the borrower will be reminded that the money is a loan — not a gift.

Lender: Let the contract be your guide when it comes to handling late payments (and assessing late fees).

Borrower: Volunteer full disclosure, including a business plan, financial statements, etc. A family member may feel uncomfortable asking for these documents.

Lender: Apply the same scrutiny to this information as you would to any other financial transaction. Both parties: Recognize the potential consequences to the family relationship if something goes wrong and the loan goes unpaid.

Both parties: The loan may or may not give the lender a voice in the running of the business. Come to an agreement on that point up front and respect the decision.

To learn more about extending loans or lines of credit to a family member, contact your business banker or a trusted financial advisor.

© 2015 Wealth Management Systems Inc. All rights reserved.

Genevieve Birchman Goes to Kulak’s for Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation

Lisa Bianconi
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Recording Artist Genevieve Birchman Performs Benefit Concert in North Hollywood on January 16 for Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation.

One of the best New Year’s resolutions is to give of one’s self to benefit others. That’s exactly what singer, songwriter and recording artist Genevieve Birchman will be doing when she takes to the stage January 16 for a special benefit concert at Kulak’s Woodshed, North Hollywood’s listening room that showcases local to Grammy-winning talent.

The venue is the perfect location for the fundraiser to benefit the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, a national foundation, based in North Hollywood that was inspired by the motion picture of the same name and has for the past two decades provided musical instruments to low-income students and underfunded music programs.

WHEN: Saturday, January 16 at 7:30pm

WHERE: Kulak’s Woodshed
5230 Laurel Canyon Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91607

TICKETS: Suggested Donation: $10

Genevieve Birchman at Kulak's Woodshed in North Hollywood www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Genevieve, who in October released her self-titled debut album, selected the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation to benefit from the event as a way she and fellow singer and private piano teacher, Aiyana Cadwell can use their talents to benefit aspiring young music students, for which both have a passion.

Genevieve has a strong desire to pass her love of music on to the next generation and, in addition to recording and performing, uses her gift of music as a way to inspire and educate other young musicians. She connected with the foundation because of its ability to bring a variety of instruments to low-income students, something the young singer feels strongly about, since she also enjoys performing on a range of string, brass and percussion instruments.

“Many of my best memories of middle school, high school, and college involve playing in concert and jazz bands,” said Genevieve. The opportunity to play with a larger group, especially as a young student, changes the way you listen and understand music. I love that The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation donates a wide variety of instruments (string, winds, brass, percussion) to under-funded music programs throughout the country. They are setting children up for a lifetime of loving music.”

Genevieve’s album was produced by Grammy-winning, Billboard-charting, Del Oro Music Producer, Robert Eibach. Eibach isn’t surprised his artist would choose to raise money for the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation: “I think it’s wonderful that Genevieve is performing a benefit concert to help provide instruments to low-income school programs. Part of what we do as entertainers is to inspire our youth to become more involved in arts and music,” Eibach said.

Cadwell, a local singer and recording artist, will open for Genevieve at the event, performing with her band a short set that combines folk, pop, classical and jazz tunes. Cadwell is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. and Genevieve will go on at 9 p.m.

“My songs are on the softer side, though emotional and dramatic in their lyrics,” Genevieve said. “It’s great to find a venue that encourages audiences to get comfortable and really listen. As a singer-songwriter, I’ve enjoyed finding homes for performances that foster quieter creativity. It could be a bookstore, art gallery, or a place like Kulak’s.”

Genevieve will perform songs from her new EP, as well as from a recently released single, “Arrow,” which she co-wrote and performed with musician and actor Teo Olivares. You can hear her music on Spotify as well.

Genevieve Birchman at Kulak's Woodshed in North Hollywood www.nohoartsdistrict.com

A few heart-felt songs from her EP are “California Dreams” and “Runaway.” With creative lyrics and haunting melodies the songs transport her listeners from the beaches and nightlife of Southern California to a small town and commune — Bormio, Italy.

Genevieve’s unique writing style captures moments and memories, as well as her urge to travel and experience more of life and all it offers. It’s an album of adventures and experiences. Her songs also talk of “coming home” and how she “learned there are places you just don’t go.”

A classically trained pianist, Genevieve has been writing lyrics and composing pop, jazz and classical songs for voice, piano, and guitar, for much of her adult life. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music composition from Occidental College in Los Angeles, where she earned the Elinor Remick Warren award for outstanding composition. She also studied at York University in England and earned widespread recognition in the International Songwriting Competition for her song, “Both of Us,” which also is featured on the Genevieve Birchman album.

Genevieve is no stranger to the L.A. music scene, having performed for a while on the open mic circuit. In fact, one of those venues was Kulak’s Woodshed, where she is looking forward to returning, after coming such a long way in her career: “It’s a great venue and I’m really excited about performing there again and using my music to help such a great program as Mr. Holland’s Opus,” she said.

For more information, contact: info@genevievebirchman.com
itunes itunes.com/genevieve-birchman 
Twitter twitter.com/gbirchman
Facebook facebook.com/genevieve.birchman

**** 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.

10 New Year’s Do’s and Don’ts

Jack Witt
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Happy 2016 everybody! 

Well, the looooong Holiday Season is over and we’re all pretty much back to reality and back to our regular daily pace.

Here’s my list of 10 things To Do and Not To Do in this new year to help boost and develop your peace of mind, serenity, balance and happiness.

1. DO – Enjoy more quality face to face time with good friends and family DON’T – keep looking down at your phone every time there’s a short pause in conversation
2. DO – Take more hikes and nature walks DON’T – always rely on indoor treadmills and stationary bikes
3. DO – Go to bed earlier and experience the benefits quality slumber DON’T – bring your phone and electronic devices into bed with you
4. DO – Volunteer in your community for a worthwhile charitable cause DON’T – only just give money all the time to charity
5. DO – Meditate / practice mindfulness at least 3 times per week DON’T – Veg out in front of the TV every night
6. DO – Be humble, have gratitude and laugh at yourself DON’T – Take yourself so seriously
7. DO – Find something you enjoy like a hobby and do it regularly DON’T – Work and stress yourself to death
8. DO – Eat more fruits and vegetables DON’T – Eat large portions and processed foods
9. DO – Learn something new this year DON’T – think your too old to learn something new this year
10. DO – Keep reaching for your life’s purpose and passion DON’T – get too comfortable and think you know it all

Cheers,

Jack Witt, MS, CPT
Fitness and Health Coach
“Get Fit with Witt”
Individuals / Groups / Corporate
310.562.5629 Cell / 818.760.3891 Main
www.getfitwithWitt.com 
https://twitter.com/GetfitwithWitt  

* New Book “From Passion to Purpose”

* Hike the Holy Land: Join me March 28 – April 5, 2016

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