Red Silk Carpet #99 April 2024 by Shelly Jernigan Pekala

RSC#99 APRIL 2024

On The Cover Cary Calvin GaimChng3r Entertainment

Michelle Hillery

Mary Beth Kellee

Michael Ungaro

Johnny Depp

Luz Maria Utrera

Billie ellish

Erla Brizeuzus-Pierre

Ann Golumbuk

Ann D’Silva

THE MET

RED SILK CARPET

INTERNATIONAL FASHION, FILM, ENTERTAINMENT, LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

www.redsilkcarpetllc.com shelley@redsilkcarpetllc.com

LET’S WORK TOGETHER! Summary of magazine Digital copy 20.00. The print is also available at a print-ondemand pricing. We are read in over 156 countries worldwide. We are a monthly publication with special issues scattered throughout the year.

Each month we publish links to purchase digital or print copies. Link to view provided each month. Credits for all those connected with photo, hair and makeup design, designers, stylist, etc. will be included with the article. Please send approximately 5 photos so that we can choose accordingly. Our magazine pages are 8.5x11, and all photos must be 300 dpi. No watermarks, please. Please make sure all photos are editorial, that they tell a story! shelley@redsilkcarpetllc.com

R E D SILK CARPET VIP LIST April 2024 COVER STORY

Cary Calvin

STARS in DIOR Johnny Depp INTERVIEWS Sandra Veum Dr. Darcele Marie Cole-Robinson Dr. Bill Senyard Luz Maria Utrera Toni Haas Scott Meehan’s Lakisha Adams Ron Kinscherf Keisha M. Brown AJ Allan Sylvester Ann Golumbuk Judy Fambrough-Billingsley Ann D’Silva Chef Sean Michelle Hillery Wanda Stevens Rielly Erla Brizeus-Pierre Marian A. Lopez Kari Elizabeth Michael Ungaro Mary Beth HARTBEAT TO PREMIERE DOCUMENTARY FEATURE “GROUP THERAPY” AT TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL

Meet GaimChng3r Entertainment Chairman, Cary Calvin: The Whole Game Has Changed By Jules Lavallee

GaimChng3r Entertainment Chairman, Cary Calvin formerly of South-Central Cartel, and CEO of GWK records has produced, recorded and marketed numerous albums throughout his career. Calvin, Son of Robert squirrel of the Chi- Lites has given him the opportunity to create lifelong connections in the music industry. GaimChgn3r Inc. is quickly forming an experienced, award-winning management team. As artists, producers and executives, projects produced by these individuals have well exceeded anything done by a record label in the past. The years of experience between the executive team maintained in both the business and creative sides of record company. This will enable GaimChng3r Entertainment to generate profitable revenue effortlessly. Gaimchng3r Entertainment (GCE), a trailblazing multimedia company, announces its groundbreaking project, The Peoples Company. With a vision to redefine entertainment, GCE introduces a dynamic platform that seamlessly integrates music, film, television, fashion, and talent management. Gaimchng3r Entertainment (GCE) is poised to disrupt the entertainment landscape with its multifaceted approach. GCE’s latest project promises a revolution in media consumption. Live streams, interactive content, and exclusive experiences will engage audiences like never before. Whether you’re a music lover, cinephile, or fashion enthusiast, Gaimchng3r Entertainment invites you to join the movement. Discover

creativity, authenticity, and boundless entertainment at your fingertips. Gaimchng3r Entertainment has redefined entertainment by introducing a dynamic platform that seamlessly integrates music, film, television, fashion, and talent management. What is your vision for 2024? (To implement Project Gaimchng3r!) Poised to disrupt the entertainment landscape with its multifaceted approach, Gaimchng3r Entertainment is on the fast track to building a global empire. Take us through your approach to success. To build an empire with hard work and follow the blueprint to greatness!

behind the music.. Jacob Garcia gaimchng3r west coast A&R.. Evelyn Suero attorney ..and many more who help in making gaimchng3r a success. What is your philosophy and how does it translate into all facets of your business? A new way of doing business. Can you share some of the artists you represent? Tiffani Lewis, Cream, Jamal, Grey-lee, Infarel. What will people notice when working with you? I’m very professional in every aspect of the music process. What does it take to make it in the business? HARD Work and never give up.

You have an award-winning management team of artists, producers and executives, who have well exceeded anything done by a record label in the past. What makes your team unique? What do you look for in talent?

Can you share challenges that you have faced and persevered?

We have one goal, to be GREAT! Someone who works hard to help a label be successful!

Your father Robert Lester from the famous group, The Chi-Lites were honored on the Walk of Fame in Atlantic City this month. How has he influenced your career?

What are the strengths of your team? We can handle any situation at the spur of the moment no egos. Chrystal Lester serves as president of gaimchng3r.. J. Sims serves as vice president of gaimchng3r.. Mark Carter serves as general manager and the man

I lost everything and hit rock bottom! I spent 4 years in prison which gave me time to find myself again.

More than I wanted because I had the frame of mind to pave my own road to success.

What do you want people to know about your father? He was a great dad!

TAGLINE: It's more than just a BOOK! It's a movement.

What did he teach you about the business? To out work everyone including myself!

Crushed by unimaginable acts of violence, a tragically broken, inner-city youth shoots herself in the head in a desperate struggle to exorcise and expose the demons that torment her. Ironically, her attempted escape reveals unexpected truths she would have died to experience.

Ghetto Tears is more than a book, it’s a movement. Share your vision for the book. To be a bestseller. Movie goals? To be a Box Office Blockbuster worldwide. How is it a movement? To share that people who go through hard times or have been abused have an outlet to find help, ghetto tears will give others hope that they are not alone.

Tell us about the powerful story, Ghetto Tears. Ghetto Tears is a raw story of the loss of innocence in a world of predators, drugs, and corruption and the journey from hopelessness to triumph and redemption through love, selfdiscovery, sacrifice, and forgiveness.

Now she's in the fight of her life, against those who want their secrets to die with her and the hope of a good life she now realizes is possible. Desperation, pain, devastation, and sheer hopelessness are the emotions felt by 16-year-old Mia Reynolds. Tell us about your plans for your fashion line and cologne. To bring change & something new and different. Where do you see Gaimchng3r in 2 years? GREATNESS! Please share your current projects and why people should pay attention to GaimChng3r in 2024.

GAIMCHNG3R ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS PROJECT GAIMCHNG3r (QUEST 4 CHANGE) www.gaimchng3r.com 2) Facebook (3) Facebook Facebook (438) GAIMCHNG3R ENTERTAINMENT (OFFICIAL PAGE) - YouTube Music Entertainment Gaimchng3r Entertainment Gaimchng3r Entertainment's Flowpage (flowcode.com) Stream Gaimchng3r Entertainment music | Listen to songs, albums, playlists for free on SoundCloud Cary Calvin (@gaimchng3r) • Instagram photos and videos Cary Calvin (@carycalvin) | TikTok (70) cary calvin | LinkedIn https://www.tumblr.com/gaimc hng https://music.youtube.com/chan nel/UCVgE47qPvoqQ1RzAleRx rmw?si=_jHXE71WZwDu0s0H https://open.spotify.com/user/1 2144880709?si=60a84d2241cb4d cd

www.gaimchng3r.com

HARTBEAT TO PREMIERE DOCUMENTARY FEATURE “GROUP THERAPY” AT TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL Neil Patrick Harris, Mike Bribiglia, Tig Notaro, Nicole Byer, London Hughes, Gary Gulman and Atsuko Okatsuka Offer a Humorous Navigation of Personal Conversations on Mental Health Premiere Screening to Take Place June 6, 2024, at OKX Theater at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center

WHAT: Today, Hartbeat, the global media company creating entertainment at the intersection of comedy and culture, announced its participation in the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival with the world premiere of the original documentary feature, “Group Therapy.” Directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Neil Berkeley, the film offers an intimate exploration of mental health within a group therapy session featuring some of today’s most beloved comedians. Hosted by Tony and Emmy award-winning performer, Neil Patrick Harris, the comedyforward documentary features

Tig Notaro, Nicole Byer, Mike Birbiglia, London Hughes, Gary Gulman, and Atsuko Okatsuka, as they bravely share the intricate connections between their professional and mental health journeys. Through candid group dialogues, personal confessions, and archival standup footage, the film offers a revelatory, emotional, and hilarious exploration into various critical conversations about mental health in our culture today. WHO: Featured cast includes Neil Patrick Harris, Tig Notaro, Nicole Byer, Mike Birbiglia, London Hughes, Gary Gulman and Atsuko Okatsuka Kevin Hart, Bryan Smiley, Kevin Healey, Luke KellyClyne, Errol Sadler, and David Heiman act as producers. Executive Producers are Ulrike Decoene, Virginie Bercot, Susana Lopez, Arthur Lenfant, Chet Fenster, Adam Puchalsky, JC Del Barco II, Ty Walker, and Neil Berkeley. Associate Producers are Scott Kirkley, Jake Watkins, and Eleanor Winkler. Nathalie Moruzzi, and Lindsay Alexis to act as CoProducers. WHEN: “Group Therapy” will premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on Thursday, June 6th, 2024

WHERE: OKX Theater at BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center (199 Chambers St, New York, NY)

ABOUT HARTBEAT Founded by Kevin Hart, Hartbeat is the global, multiplatform media company creating entertainment at the intersection of comedy and culture with a mission to keep the world laughing together. Hartbeat delivers comedy through its three divisions: Hartbeat Studios, which finances, develops, and produces innovative content; Hartbeat Media, which connects with consumers around the world through events and the company’s expansive distribution network; and PULSE, the company’s branded entertainment studio that serves as a creative and cultural consultancy to brand. Hartbeat’s flagship consumer brand, the LOL! Network reaches audiences across its O&O social media, audio, and OTT partners. Led by an awardwinning team, Hartbeat is a valuable partner to the biggest entertainment companies, platforms, and brands in the world, driving cultural currency and generating sales, subscriptions, buzz, and conversation with some of the most coveted audiences.

Angela Lewis and Empowered Mornings Show By Jules Lavallee

Angela Lewis, International Keynoter, Empowerment Expert and Visibility Coach Shares. Voted one of the “Top 50 Empowered Women Empowering Women” by Called2Inspire Magazine, empowerment expert Angela Lewis is a highly sought-after international keynoter, bestselling author, and visibility coach. Highly regarded as one of the most influential voices in motivational speaking, Angela is now on a mission to impact audiences and train individuals and corporations worldwide with her message of encouragement and empowerment, so they reach their highest potential. Angela’s extensive expertise had earned her invitations to speak on major stages across the country. She has delivered dynamic live and virtual keynote speeches for large audiences, including Shawn Fair’s Leadership Experience Tour, Queens Roundtable Symposium, and Sister Leader Conference, to name a few. She is a compelling thought leader and motivational speaker dedicated to supporting women's personal and professional empowerment worldwide. In line with her unyielding passion for helping others succeed, Angela founded “Hot Wife Society” and “I Am a Woman Empowered,” initiatives that provide women opportunities to build confidence, connections, and collaborations through workshops, conferences, personal consultations, and entrepreneurial ventures.

Angela is the founder of the WE Empower Network, a broadcasting and media production company showcasing several talented hosts who are committed to sharing inspirational and motivational content to help others shift their mindsets to win in life. She is also the executive producer and co-host of the groundbreaking Empowered Mornings Show, where the Queens

of Empowerment come together on weekday mornings to get you plugged in and bring some power back into your mornings. Angela has a deep-rooted enthusiasm for helping women use their gifts, talents, and voice. She mentors passionately, guiding her clients with results-proven strategies that provide the visibility and credibility needed for their brands to "elevate and dominate" in the marketplace. She founded WE Shine Media Solutions, a publishing company that has assisted hundreds of women in publishing literary works. She is the visionary of three bestselling book anthologies; I Am a Woman Empowered: Stories of Strength, Resiliency & Triumphs, Woman Empowered 2: Fierce, Fabulous & Free, and The Audacity to be Empowered. These books give women the voice to share their personal stories to empower others. Red Silk Carpet spoke with Angela and her hosts about the Empowered Morning Show.

Angela, You are on a mission to impact audiences and train individuals and corporations worldwide with your message of encouragement and empowerment. Let’s delve into your backstory. Share your background.

The biggest thing for me is seeing other people win. DJ Khaled has a song titled "All I Do is Win," and I love it. It's actually the mantra for the WE Empower Network. Our letters are WEN, so we say, "All I do is WEN, WEN, WEN, no matter what!" That winning attitude comes from growing up as a preacher's kid. My father served a congregation of people, and it was all about spreading the gospel, helping people, and promoting the fact that Jesus came so that we may have life and have it more abundantly, which, to me, equated to winning. I came to realize that I

love edifying people and empowering them to elevate and dominate in their chosen niche or business endeavors. So, my mission is to help as many people as I can to be the best version of themselves and win in every area of their lives. Tell us about WE Empower Network. WE Empower Network is an online media & broadcasting company that was created out of my desire to foster wellness in every area of life: mentally, emotionally, spiritually, physically, and financially. I wanted to bring diverse people together who displayed a desire to do the same thing. Initially, I thought about doing a solo show, but quickly realized more value would be given if I had co-hosts. I knew each of these ladies in some capacity and recognized the impact they could bring operating in their own natural gifts. So, I asked if they would be interested in empowering others through an online broadcast and they each said YES! The rest is, as they say, history, or in our case, "herstory." What is Queendom Behavior? Queendom Behavior is a spin-off of the Empowered Mornings Show. We are collectively known as the Queens of Empowerment, and we realized we could bring additional value by showing up and bringing contact outside of social media. I have always wanted to do things bigger, and Queendom Behavior represents elevation on multiple levels. We offer more indepth conversations that may not necessarily be appropriate for morning audiences. This platform allows us to enlarge our territory and expand our reach to other likeminded people in our audience who need empowerment and desire to win in their lives.

Meet Terrye Y. Hicks, Executive Producer of Empowered Mornings

Terrye is an entrepreneur and creative, is a licensed and ordained minister of the gospel. She is the founder & president of Will Call Learning Center, a Christ-centered performing arts homeschool program for K-12th grades. She is passionate about meeting students on their academic levels and helping them to achieve measures of success they never thought were possible by tapping into and applying their potential.

practice what we preach and live out what we say each morning in real time. Our show stands out because it’s centered on our faith in God. We don’t hide that we are believers and love God, but we also don’t beat people over the head with bibles. We simply share what we believe as part of how we provide hope and encouragement and leave audiences to decide for themselves. What we’ve seen over time is that they have discovered we are real, genuine, sincere, and whatever we’re doing, it must work because they can see the fruit, and it makes them want to do it too.

Terrye, the Empowered Mornings Show is filled with laughter, positivity, and truth. What can we find on your show, and how does it stand out from similar shows? This show is all about empowerment. From the topics and the guests to each of our show segments. Audiences know they can tune into The Empowered Mornings Show at any time and receive encouragement, inspiration, motivation, and empowerment— whether through laughter, some sort of entertainment, through education and information, and even through tears. We’re transparent with our viewers and they get to watch us

I love that I get to work with each show and help pull out its greatness to show to the world. I love taking visions and bringing them to life; it’s what I do. I get to do this with each episode of these shows. The shows’ visionary, Angela, has a specific vision of what she wanted these shows to be, and it’s my job during each episode to make sure that vision translates into what audiences actually experience. My personal background is significantly helpful here. I’ve been entertaining and performing for audiences (from tens to thousands) for over 35 years. I attended a performing arts

based Christian school my entire childhood and attended a church that was known worldwide for its theatrical and musical performances. That fueled my passion and appreciation for the arts. That has led to a life of traveling and performing, acting, singing, and dancing all over the country; writing, directing, and producing my own stage plays and musicals; directing and producing stage plays for others; managing and organizing events for wellknown artists and celebrities; producing events and live shows; producing shows for network television; and working with artists and other creatives to help them bring their visions to life. Lastly, I also own and operate a performing arts based homeschool program for kindergarten through twelfth grades. All of these experiences give me insight, perspective, and the skill to help create the content that our amazing shows produce every time we air. It’s important to us that we show up in a way that’s true to ourselves, represents Angela’s vision, and inspires people with fresh perspective, insight, and creativity. I’m happy that I get to be a part of what makes it all come together.

Meet Dr. Sparkle Taneka Osborne Co-Host of Empowered Mornings Dr. Sparkle Taneka Osborne is an entrepreneur, CEO, Human Resources professional, speaker, encourager, motivator, and graduate of Middle Tennessee State University. Sparkle Taneka Osborne received her Honorary Doctorate from School of the Great Commission Theological Seminary and Lifetime Achievement Award in June 2023. She loves teaching people to sparkle despite what life throws at them. She is a country girl with southern roots and has love and compassion for others. “Sparkle” Taneka Osborne grew up surrounded by family, and that village allowed her to learn valuable lessons about self-worth. It took a village to raise her.

Dr. Sparkle Taneka Osborne, share your background and why Empowered Mornings is a motivational force in women’s lives. I am Sparkle Taneka Osborne, a force of renewal and empowerment, proudly declaring my status as God’s chosen daughter. There was a time when I couldn't fathom being God’s favorite daughter, blinded by my own insecurities and doubts. But through the toughest seasons, like the battle of divorce and depression, I found the strength to cry out to God for help. His response was simple yet profound: "You don’t Love you.“ Initially resistant, I eventually surrendered, admitting that I needed help to love myself. From that moment, a

transformative journey began. Every day, God and I walked together, discussing my worth and identity. He showed me the beauty of nature, teaching me to trust in growth and resilience. We spent mornings in the mirror affirming every part of me, from my eyes to my lips, with love and appreciation. Through this process, I witnessed a remarkable shift in my mindset and perspective. I began to truly love myself and seize control of my own destiny. This journey birthed a ministry within me, "I Love HER," dedicated to empowering women to embrace self-love and live boldly in their purpose. My personal journey, guided by God's love, fuels my dedication as a co-host of Empowering Mornings. Every day, as Sparkle Taneka

Osborne, I embrace the chance not only to inspire but also to share the overflowing love I've received. Through this Empowered Mornings Show, I spread the life-altering principles of unconditional self-love, emphasizing the profound impact of aligning with God's will. Love transcends mere words; it's a transformative force that everyone must grasp and embrace. God's promises are abundant and unwaveringly true, with over 7,000 tailored specifically for you. Don't let doubt or hesitation prevent you from claiming what is rightfully yours. Embrace the person God created you to be and receive all the promises meant for your life. I Love HER

Meet Regina Hutt, Co-Host of Empowered Mornings By Jules Lavallee

Regina Hutt is an Entrepreneur/Fitness Trainer/Herbalist/Author/ Speaker “Sacred Healing Mind-Body-Soul was birthed out of my life’s journey. The greater the affliction, the greater the gift of wisdom and understanding poured into my intellect for healing. I am a living witness that anything is possible if you believe it. I have 19 years of clinical experience and knowledge in various areas of standardized medicine. I’ve been practicing and studying Holistic Medicine for 10 years. I continually study and I’m very passionate about healing the mind, body, and soul entirely. I am a firm believer in the “each one teach one” mentality. Knowledge is power and “whatever a man thinketh so he is.” I believe in giving back so I served in the community and

spearheaded a volunteer group with Engage Atlanta to beautify local schools. I have a deep passion to help others believe in their beauty and to seek hope no matter what their current reality reflects. That led me to unify a group to volunteer in outreach service at a youth detention center. Mentoring young ladies has always been a passion. My belief system is setting the correct foundation and with necessity tools usually results in a higher rate of success. When we are healthy as a whole being, then we can help the community build as a whole thriving society. “When you give to the least of thee, you are giving unto God” and by faith with a group of women we served and fed five families a month. We walked by faith not by sight! I am a humble servant and not arrogant, therefore I can only give you my truth to the creation of Sacred Healing Mind-Body-Soul

and how it was conceived. Regina Hutt, what is unique about Empowered Mornings? As a professional podcast host, I am thrilled to showcase the empowering and unique nature of Empowered Morning Show. This one-of-a-kind podcast brings together five inspiring women from various backgrounds who have made a collective commitment to empower their audience. The show's genuine reflections and diverse perspectives make it a truly special platform for uplifting and motivating listeners to start their days on a positive note. Empowered Morning Show sets itself apart by fostering a sense of community and empowerment that transcends boundaries and resonates with individuals seeking to embrace their full potential.

Meet Dior Davis, Co-Host of EMPOWERED MORNINGS By Jules Lavallee

My name is Dior Davis who is the first black woman Luxury Beekeeper to create a unique way to consume honey. I have also been coined as the National American Business Woman for 2024. As a businesswoman, I bring a unique combination of experience, expertise, and passion to the table. I have a proven track record of success in my industry, and I am constantly seeking new ways to innovate and improve. I am committed to empowering and supporting other women in their professional and personal journeys. I believe in the power of mentorship and collaboration, and I actively seek out opportunities to share my knowledge and skills with other women. By lifting each other up and working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive business community for all women to thrive. Dior, what has inspired you the most about the hosts? I am constantly inspired by the other women I share this platform

with as they continue to pave the way for success and are making a positive impact in their respective industries. Their resilience, determination, and ability to overcome obstacles serve as a source of motivation for me to continue pushing forward and striving for excellence in my own career. I am inspired by their willingness to share their knowledge and support other women in their journeys, creating a culture of empowerment. Angela, what is your mission for Empowered Mornings? At The Empowered Mornings Show, our mission is to inspire, inform, and empower our audience to kickstart their day with enthusiasm, positivity, and purpose. We believe in the transformative power of morning routines and the potential for personal growth. Our show is committed to providing a dynamic and inclusive platform that celebrates diversity and champions the voices of all individuals, regardless of background, age, or

perspective. We aim to create a welcoming space where every listener feels heard, valued, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. Our goal is to send our audience off into their day with a sense of empowerment, purpose, and the belief that every morning is a fresh opportunity to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others. At The Empowered Mornings Show, we are more than just a show; we are a catalyst for personal growth, a source of inspiration, and a beacon of positivity to help you seize the day with confidence, enthusiasm, and empowerment. Tell us about WE Shine Media Solutions. We have three bestselling book anthologies; I Am a Woman Empowered: Stories of Strength, Resiliency & Triumphs, Woman Empowered 2: Fierce, Fabulous & Free, and The Audacity to be Empowered.

Website: https://www.iamangelalewis.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angel a-lewis-6b5243141 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iaman gelalewis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/100000 056166247 Twitter: https://twitter.com/_iamangelalewis Facebook is https://www.facebook.com/empow eredmornings IG is https://www.Instagram.com/empo weredmornings YouTube is https://www.YouTube.com/@emp oweredmornings You are on a mission to impact audiences and train individuals and corporations worldwide with your message of encouragement and empowerment. Let’s delve into your backstory. Share your background.

business endeavors. So, my mission is to help as many people as I can to be the best version of themselves and win in every area of their lives.

laughter, positivity, and truth. What can we find on your show, and how does it stand out from similar shows?

Tell us about WE Empower Network and how you joined forces with your amazing and talented hosts. WE Empower Network is an online media & broadcasting company that was created out of my desire to foster wellness in every area of life: mentally, emotionally, spiritually, physically, and financially. I wanted to bring diverse people together who displayed a desire to do the same thing. Initially I thought about doing a solo show, but quickly realized more value would be given if I had cohosts. I knew each of these ladies in some capacity and recognized the impact they could bring operating in their own natural gifts. So, I asked if they would be interested in empowering others through an online broadcast and they each said YES! The rest is, as they say, history, or in our case, "herstory."

This show is all about empowerment. From the topics and the guests to each of our show segments. Audiences know they can tune into The Empowered Mornings Show at any time and receive encouragement, inspiration, motivation, and empowerment— whether through laughter, some sort of entertainment, through education and information, and even through tears. We’re transparent with our viewers and they get to watch us practice what we preach and live out what we say each morning in real time. Our show stands out because it’s centered on our faith in God. We don’t hide that we are believers and love God, but we also don’t beat people over the head with bibles. We simply share what we believe as part of how we provide hope and encouragement and leave audiences to decide for themselves. What we’ve seen over time is that they have discovered we are real, genuine, sincere, and whatever we’re doing, it must work because they can see the fruit, and it makes them want to do it too.

What is Queendom Behavior? Queendom Behavior is a spin-off of the Empowered Mornings Show. We are collectively known as the Queens of Empowerment, and we realized we could bring additional value by showing up and delivering content outside of social media. I have always wanted to do things bigger, and Queendom Behavior represents elevation on multiple levels. We offer more in-depth conversations that may not necessarily be appropriate for morning audiences. This platform allows us to enlarge our territory and expand our reach to other likeminded people in addition to our social media audience who need empowerment and desire to win in their lives as well. Terrye, the Empowered Mornings Show is filled with

Dr. Sparkle Taneka Osborne: Share your background and why Empowered Mornings is a motivational force in women’s lives. (What do you bring to the show?) I am Sparkle Taneka Osborne, a force of renewal and empowerment, proudly declaring my status as God’s chosen daughter. There was a time when I couldn't fathom being God’s favorite daughter, blinded by my own insecurities and doubts. But through the toughest seasons, like the battle of divorce and depression, I found the strength to cry out to God for help. His response was simple yet profound:

"You don’t Love you." Initially resistant, I eventually surrendered, admitting that I needed help to love myself. From that moment, a transformative journey began. Every day, God and I walked together, discussing my worth and identity. He showed me the beauty of nature, teaching me to trust in growth and resilience. We spent mornings in the mirror affirming every part of me, from my eyes to my lips, with love and appreciation. Through this process, I witnessed a remarkable shift in my mindset and perspective. I began to truly love myself and seize control of my own destiny. This journey birthed a ministry within me, "I Love HER," dedicated to empowering women to embrace self-love and live boldly in their purpose. My personal journey, guided by God's love, fuels my dedication as a co-host of Empowered Mornings. Every day, as Sparkle Taneka Osborne, I embrace the chance not only to inspire but also to share the overflowing love I've received. Through this Empowered Mornings Show, I spread the life-altering principles of unconditional self-love, emphasizing the profound Impact of aligning with God's will. Love transcends mere words; it's a transformative force that everyone must grasp and embrace. God's promises are abundant and unwaveringly true, with over 7,000 tailored specifically for you. Don't let doubt or hesitation prevent you from claiming what is rightfully yours. Embrace the person God created you to be and receive all the promises meant for your life. I Love HER Terrye, as the executive producer of the Empowered Mornings Show and Queendom Behavior, share your background and what you uniquely bring to

the table. I love that I get to work with each show and help pull out its greatness to show to the world. I love taking visions and bringing them to life; it’s what I do. I get to do this with each episode of these shows. The shows’ visionary, Angela, has a specific vision of what she wanted these shows to be, and it’s my job during each episode to make sure that vision translates into what audiences actually experience. My personal background is significantly helpful here. I’ve been entertaining and performing for audiences (from tens to thousands) for over 35 years. I attended a performing arts based Christian school my entire childhood and attend a church that was known worldwide for its theatrical and musical performances. That fueled my passion and appreciation for the arts. That has led to a life of traveling and performing, acting, singing, and dancing all over the country; writing, directing, and producing my own stage plays and musicals; directing and producing stage plays for others; managing and organizing events for well-known artists and celebrities; producing events and live shows; producing shows for network television; and working with artists and other creatives to help them bring their visions to life. Lastly, I also own and operate a performing arts based homeschool program for kindergarten through twelfth grades. All of these experiences give me insight, perspective, and the skill to help create the content that our amazing shows produce every time we air. It’s important to us that we show up in a way that’s true to ourselves, represents Angela’s vision, and inspires people with fresh perspective, insight, and creativity. I’m happy that I get to be a part of what makes it all come together. Regina Hutt, what is unique about Empowered Mornings?

As a professional podcast host, I am thrilled to showcase the empowering and unique nature of Empowered Morning Show. This one-of-a-kind podcast brings together five inspiring women from various backgrounds who have made a collective commitment to empower their audience. The show's genuine reflections and diverse perspectives make it a truly special platform for uplifting and motivating listeners to start their days on a positive note. Empowered Morning Show sets itself apart by fostering a sense of community and empowerment that transcends boundaries and resonates with individuals seeking to embrace their full potential. You are a Holistic Health and Wellness Practitioner. How are you bringing your insight to the show?

As the dedicated holistic health and wellness practitioner for the Empowered Morning Show, it is my heartfelt mission to spread wellbeing on a global scale. I am deeply passionate about educating individuals on the significance of integrating healthy principles into their lives, encompassing mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions. Through this platform, I strive to empower others with the knowledge and tools necessary to cultivate holistic wellness and achieve a harmonious balance in all aspects of their being. By focusing on mental health, physical fitness, and spiritual practices, I aim to inspire transformation and promote a lifestyle that nurtures not only the body but also the mind and soul. Together, we can embark on a journey towards optimal health and wellness, paving the way for a brighter, more vibrant future.

Dior, share your background and what you share on the show. My name is Dior Davis, and I am the first black woman Luxury Beekeeper to create unique ways to consume honey. I have also been coined as the National American Business Woman for 2024. As a businesswoman, I bring a unique combination of experience, expertise, and passion to the table. I have a proven track record of success in my industry, and I am constantly seeking new ways to innovate and improve. I am committed to empowering and supporting other women in their professional and personal journeys. I believe in the power of mentorship and collaboration, and I actively seek out opportunities to share my knowledge and skills with other women. By lifting each other up and working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive business community for all women to thrive. What has inspired you the most about the hosts? I am constantly inspired by the other women I share this platform with as they continue to pave the way for success and are making a positive impact in their respective industries. Their resilience, determination, and ability to overcome obstacles serve as a source of motivation for me to continue pushing forward and striving for excellence in my own career. I am inspired by their willingness to share their knowledge and support other women in their journeys, creating a culture of empowerment. Angela, what is your mission for Empowered Mornings? At The Empowered Mornings Show, our mission is to inspire, inform, and empower our audience to kickstart their day with enthusiasm, positivity, and purpose. We believe in the transformative power of morning routines and the potential for personal growth. Our show is committed to providing a dynamic and inclusive platform that celebrates diversity and champions the voices of all

individuals, regardless of background, age, or perspective. We aim to create a welcoming space where every listener feels heard, valued, and inspired to reach their fullest potential. Our goal is to send our audience off into their day with a sense of empowerment, purpose, and the belief that every morning is a fresh opportunity to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others. At The Empowered Mornings Show, we are more than just a show; we are a catalyst for personal growth, a source of inspiration, and a beacon of positivity to help you seize the day with confidence, enthusiasm, and empowerment. Tell us about WE Shine Media Solutions. We Shine Media Solutions was created from a desire to see people tell and share their stories. I believe we all have had life experiences that may be able to help someone else or at the very least let them know they are not alone and shed light on how they can overcome, survive, or thrive under similar situations. Writing is so very powerful, and it is the gateway to other opportunities such as speaking, coaching, acting, producing, directing, and facilitating other projects such as workshops, seminars, conferences, films, and other adaptations. I believe if I shine, and you shine, then we shine together to produce a powerful light that can transform the world.

You have three bestselling book anthologies; I Am a Woman

Empowered: Stories of Strength, Resiliency & Triumphs, Woman Empowered 2: Fierce, Fabulous & Free, and The Audacity to be Empowered. Tell us more! (Are you working on a new anthology?) I am currently working on several anthology projects, one where I am the visionary author and others who have their own visionary author. Hot Wife Hot Life is the one I am doing. Hot Wife Hot Life" is an anthology that delves into the intricacies of married life. Within its pages, readers will find stories that explore the challenges and joys of marital commitment, the importance of faith

in sustaining relationships, and the beauty of redemption and forgiveness. Through shared stories of love and spiritual growth, this anthology offers a reflection on the sanctity of marriage and the power of God's grace to transform lives. Embark on a journey of faith, hope, and love within the pages of "Hot Wife Hot Life," where the bonds of matrimony become even stronger with God at the center of the relationship. Others I am working on are "Love Language of Grief," "The Devil Thought He Had Me," and another is a beauty industry expose'. Each project allows people to come together to share their experiences pertaining to the chosen topic. It's really powerful when people can come together and have a connection for life through the power of their words. What is your vision for 2024? The focus is really on developing the WE Empower Network brand and bringing along other visionaries who are subject matter experts or change agents and have a message that will empower, inspire, and motivate the world to do what we are doing, which is Winning in life, no matter what challenges we may face. Mindset and attitude can definitely take you beyond your wildest dreams if you get empowered and believe that you are able to achieve anything you put your mind to. Website: https://www.iamangelalewis.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelalewis-6b5243141 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamange lalewis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1000000 56166247 Twitter: https://twitter.com/_iamangelalewis

Kelsie Kimberlin International Music Star Shares New Release, “ We Are The Promise ” By Jules Lavallee

Kelsie Kimberlin is a 24-year-old singer-songwriter who has been involved with music her entire life, starting with children’s and church choirs, and then recording her first song at age eight for Yoko Ono’s Peace Project, which won first prize and a $5000 award. She spent all of that money on music lessons and started recording her own music in the studio at age 12. Over the past several years, she has recorded more than 100 original songs. Since June 2020, she has released a dozen songs on YouTube and worldwide music platforms, working with top producers on three continents, including a number of multiGrammy winners and nominees, including Liam Nolan (Adele), Simon Gibson (Beatles, Paul McCartney), Michael Brauer (Coldplay, John Mayer), Greg Calbi

first video, “Armageddon,” was released in September to rave reviews and has garnered close to a million views, plays, and streams. She received a commendation from the Armed Forces and a gift from an aide to President Zelensky for her support of Ukraine. Her second video, “Another Chance To Live Again” was released on October 16th and is already going viral. Kelsie is also working with Bogota producer Pedro Vengoechea on a number of songs, and in July, she flew to Colombia to film two music videos directed by award-winning film maker, Cristian Flores, which took her to the rainforest and into the village of an indigenous tribe. Kelsie’s recent release, “We Are The Promise” has 905K views. Kelsie is truly an international artist.

Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga), Joe Laporta (Shawn Mendez, Lizzo), Brent Kolatalo (Kendrick Lamar, Eminem), and Stuart Hawkes (Amy Winehouse). Kelsie has spent literally thousands of hours in the music studio over the past ten years, and currently spends at least two days per week recording new original material. Her music has received worldwide radio play and was in the top 20 on the radio charts in Ukraine for three months prior to the war. She is UkrainianAmerican and is very outspoken in her support of Ukraine. In August 2023, she traveled to Ukraine where she engaged in humanitarian work and filmed three music videos about the effects of the war on

Kelsie, the past year has been a world wind for you. How has your humanitarian work in the Ukraine made a footprint in your legacy?

Ukraniians. The filming occurred under martial law with air raid sirens blaring and attack drones and missiles being shot down overhead. She is the first artist to be granted permission to film in the locations of the worst atrocities in Bucha and Irpin. The

Thank you for the opportunity to talk with you. Yes, the past year has been quite exciting especially with regard to my work in Ukraine. I am a popular American-Ukrainian singer and have used my popularity to totally support Ukraine since a terrorist country invaded in 2014. After the full invasion in 2022, I began posting videos and social media posts to garner support for Ukraine. Then I began writing songs about the war and creating music videos that received a great deal of interaction. This led to an invitation by military officials to visit Ukraine and film three music videos at locations where the worst atrocities occurred in Bucha and Irpin. So, I traveled there last August and spent two grueling weeks filming under martial law while air raid sirens were blaring,

and attack drones and missiles were being shot down overhead. Since then, I have released those videos, and they have all gone viral with millions of views. While I was in Kyiv, I also engaged in humanitarian work with refugees, displaced animals, and injured soldiers, and I met with an aide to President Zelensky. I noticed that there was a tremendous amount of need that the government was unable to address so I decided to launch a foundation to help Ukraine and have already begun providing much needed assistance. I have an office in Washington, DC and one in Kyiv and people can donate at KelsieKimberlinFoundation.org. My music and my foundation will both have a profound impact on my legacy. Kelsie's Ukraine trilogy https://www.youtube.com/watch ?v=seIj0k6IGic Tell us about your recent releases, “Turn Back” and “We are the Promise.” One of the videos I filmed last August in Ukraine is called “Turn Back” and it is truly heart wrenching. It has two meanings—first, it is a call for all those who left Ukraine after the 2022 war to return home to help rebuild and defend the country; second, it is a hope that soldiers who are fighting for Ukraine will return home safely to their families. One of the most emotional segments of footage in the video is at the Wall of Remembrance where thousands of photos of soldiers killed in the war are on display.

“We Are The Promise,” in contrast, was filmed before the big war started but it predicted the war in certain aspects. The story is about a dystopian society which has a “law of silence” that prohibits music and musicians. I am the musical protagonist who opposes the law, the dictator, and his misfit army. The video was directed by famous Ukrainian director Sergey Krutsenko as a complete cinematic production with backdrops at an old Soviet prison camp and a century’s old castle. The Kyiv Radio Symphony Orchestra plays on the song. We are currently shopping the concept to directors who can turn it into a cable series. We Are The Promise: www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IU6a hjPQE4

Share the importance of the message in “We Are The Promise.” With the invasion of Ukraine by a crazed dictator, and the grotesque authoritarianism by the Republican Party, which is banning books, marginalizing vast segments of society, and taking away the rights of women, “We Are The Promise” serves as a metaphor for what people need to do to oppose autocrats and their policies. If we don’t oppose them, then the world will suffer grievously, and future generations will be threatened. With the video and the lyrics of the song, I hope to inspire people everywhere to stand up for their rights to be a human…free, happy, and with infinite possibilities. “We are the Promise” is truly an anthem for the people. Walk us through your lens when you were creating this song vision for this song. I actually wrote this song six years ago in response to the Ukraine’s

2014 Revolution of Dignity where millions of Ukrainians stood up and fought back against an autocratic leader. I recorded a demo, sent it to Sergey and he immediately recognized the importance of the message and its obvious potential as an anthem not just for Ukraine but also for people across the globe who are ruled by dictators. So, he invited me to Kyiv and assembled a tremendous group of actors and extras to appear in the video. Incredibly, the actor who plays the dictator in the video is now serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces protecting the front line. We spent more than a week filming and planned to release it in 2020. However, Covid shut down the world and then our enemy attacked all of Ukraine in 2022. So, it was not released until January of this year. A fun fact about the video is that it has gotten more views in a shorter time than any of my other videos. We have had several inquiries about turning the concept into a cable series along the lines of Squid Games meets Handmaiden’s Tale.

During your time filming, what has surprised you the most? Well, there were many surprises, but most of all, I was impressed that Sergey wanted to film the video on such a grand scale, like a Hollywood blockbuster movie. We filmed at so many locations that there are terabytes of footage that have not yet seen the light of day. He was filming in anticipation of a cable series or full-length movie.

What are your goals for 2024? This year is going to be very busy for me. First, on March 29th, I will release a new song called “Parking Lot” that was filmed recently in Cartagena, Colombia. It has an amazing vibe and hook that I

guarantee will go viral. Second, on April 26th, I will release my first EP with 8 songs that are unique and incredible, and all have Grammy winners in the production process. Third, in anticipation of Pride Month, on May 31st, I will release a video called “Twinkle” about a 12-year-old transgender girl who is fighting to be treated like any other person. I filmed it in Florida with her and it is so cool. Fourth, in July, I will release another video I filmed in Colombia called “Gotta See Right.” This is the first music video ever to be filmed in the pristine Tayrona National Forest, and it includes footage of me in the rainforest meeting the indigenous WIWA tribe. The footage is stunning. Fifth, this is an election year so I will use my voice to inspire people to vote for progress. And sixth, I will continue to support Ukraine with my music and my foundation. I hope to release 25 songs this year so I will likely release an album in November. Please share your social media handles and website links. All of my social media can be found simply using my full name, Kelsie Kimberlin. Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/kelsiekimberlin Twitter: https://twitter.com/kelsiekimberlin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsiek imbe... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kelsie Kimberlin Website: https://www.kelsiekimberlin.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelsieki mberl... YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Kelsi eKimbe

Meet Sandra Veum of Mariposa Style, a Style Concierge Whose Mission is to Build Style Confidence for Everyone! By Jules Lavallee

Sandra Veum is a highly sought after Personal Wardrobe Stylist in San Diego. Sandra helps enhance your current style and become a better version of yourself. She focuses her efforts on your individual needs, body type and budget rather than a specific designer, brand, or store. She believes that everyone can be “effortless chic” with their own individual style and at any price. Individual style comes from a person being inspired, open-minded, and confident with who they are. She will help you develop your own personal style and integrate it into your life. Sandra started her business in 2006 and since then has been a critical part in transforming many of her clients. She offers closet evaluations where she helps you edit, organize, and “shop your own closet” while creating your own “look book.” Sandra helps you become more of a strategic shopper while learning where to spend the money and where to save. Sandra has been working with individuals, groups, and companies for the past several years, helping them find the “New Version of You.” She is an expert on dress codes and assists companies on how to integrate the dress code throughout the different departments.

What led you to be a highly sought after Personal Wardrobe Stylist and personal shopper? What has led me to be a highly sought after Personal Wardrobe Stylist and Personal Shopper is probably the longevity of my business, problem solving skills, organizational skills, and reputation, not only with my clients but with stores and organizations. I am a woman of my word and only produce what I say. I also do not like to turn away potential clients. I really try to find a way to work together without dropping my rate. It is all about being strategic with my time and knowing where I can best fit and make a difference with lasting style transformations.

Due to my past experience in business, I also believe that having a business sense as a Personal Wardrobe Stylist helps in planning and being creative with regards to people’s style journey’s, style presentations, events, and working with different organizations. I like to find out my client’s goals and try to create a personalized style/shopping plan for them. No one is alike. I may use similar formulas but try and switch it up to fit a person’s brand, lifestyle, goal, and budget. I also believe that having a BS Degree in Textiles & Clothing has really helped me stand out with knowing construction, quality, history of fashion, and fit of garments. I am a stickler on having your wardrobe fit you properly. My knowledge and passion for fashion, both past and present, is important but what is even more important, is knowing how to translate that for the everyday person. At the end of the day my business is built around building confidence in people and helping them feel the best version of themselves at all times! Are you seeing an upswing in business? I am definitely seeing an upswing in my personal wardrobe styling business. I would say the month of January was a little slow, but that has certainly turned around and now people are traveling again, needing help shopping /styling for special events and just wanting to clean/edit/and organize their closets!

I feel that the trend of being a more strategic and mindful shopper is continuing to occur. I will say that shopping has changed in the sense of not only shopping in person but also usually doing a follow-up with particular items online if I am not able to find them in the stores. I have personally always tried to teach my clients to be a mindful and strategic shopper even before this trend. As a Personal Wardrobe Stylist, I feel it is very important to truly love what you own and be sure to wear what you buy! One of my fastest growing services that I offer is the styling/packing option for trips, both ©Red Silk Carpet April 2024- All Rights Reserved

leisure and business. Another fastgrowing service that I offer is when I shop their own closet and create new looks with items that are not being worn. I foresee these services to be a continued trend for this year. You believe that everyone can be “effortless chic.” Explain Absolutely! Everyone can be effortless chic in their own way. My description of effortless chic is not looking like you are trying too hard. Your style is effortless and speaks for itself. I am all about being approachable and put-together. Nothing is worse than when you look like you are trying too hard to have style. Style is what you say about yourself without saying a word. I want my clients to have a wardrobe that is easy for them to put together multiple outfits. Everyone has their checklists of their wants and I help them navigate and manage how to produce that with their wardrobe and closet. I like to help people find their interchangeable wardrobe that has plenty of choices for the different events in their lives, including just every day! The word “effortless” is the ease of a person’s wardrobe choices and closet organization. The word “chic” is the style that my clients are wanting to portray without looking like they are trying too hard or trying to be someone they are not. It is important to remain true to yourself but still know how to elevate your style. The best thing is to have an organized closet and wardrobe that you can’t wait to get dressed in! How much fun is the Scents of Style? Tell us about your tour. My copyrighted “Scents of Style” event is truly one of my favorite parts of my business! The whole concept is to have an olfactive experience while learning about style! I like to partner with some of my colleagues in the perfume and cosmetic industry to have a full sensory experience! I take my guests on a journey of where the cologne is made from or what memory it creates while showcasing what the “look” would be of the person wearing that scent in that location.

Styled an individual client for a leadership awards ceremony.

Styled and presented on “Holiday Styles” for Fashion Valley Shopping Center.

Styled an individual client for her re-branding of her company.

Styled the “What to Wear on New Years Eve When Pregnant” segment Fox 5 KSWB & KUSI TV

I then have a must-have make-up technique and product that goes along with the styled look! It truly is a fantastic experience that everyone enjoys! You end up utilizing all of your senses while being inspired on what to wear, smell like, and know the best make-up item to use!

(youtube.com) Flipping 50 Podcast- Makeover Your Fitness, Makeover Your Image! Stylist Wardrobe Tips! https://www.flippingfifty.com/mak eover-fitness-makeover-imagestylist-wardrobe-tips/

Tell us about your work with companies and writing dress codes.

Take us through, what do you offer for clients?

I am a little unique with this service and I absolutely love helping companies out with determining and defining what their dress codes look like. I started hearing about dress attire issues within companies even before Covid. Companies wanted to expand their best practices by allowing people to wear business casual all week, but a lot of people don’t know what that looks like. Sometimes when someone hears business casual, they only hear the word casual. I like to call it professional business casual. I meet with HR, the executive team, and employees to really get to know their culture and hear their needs. After hearing what the mission is, I offer assistance with writing the dress code and present on what that actually looks like for the company. Visuals are a must to really help clarify and showcase what the style looks like. This is based on budgets and for all body types. In the past I even helped modify a pant length requirement for women for a conservative company. I did this by demonstrating, to the executive team, what the current inventory looked like, at that time, and what was truly available for their employees. I guess you could say my past experience in the hotel sales & marketing industry really helps me make it a win-win for all. At least that is always my intent! Kathy McSherry Embrace Your Personal Style with Sandra Veum EP08 | Embrace Your Personal Style with Sandra Veum

I like to think that I help individuals either find their new style, help them remember what their style was, or teach them about mindful shopping if they have a lot of clothes and are already stylish. My services include: personal shopping inperson or privately, full, or partial closet evaluations, virtual shopping/styling, packing/styling, corporate styling & branding, style pretentious, shopping tours, & private shopping events. My overall goal is to listen to my client’s needs and wants, assess where they are currently at, and help them achieve these goals through style. My personal goal is to help you be the best version of yourself, at all periods of your life, while remaining true to yourself. It is all about feeling good and leaving a positive lasting impression on people! Much of your business is also to help people plan for trips. What do you enjoy the most? I love this part of my business! My past experience in the hotel/travel industry really helps me know how to look at an itinerary and start asking the questions for the style/packing process. Once I know the travel destination and what someone is doing while they are there, my creative process begins. Whether it is a business or leisure trip, I like to know exactly where someone is staying and what activities they are doing so I can visualize the “looks” for them. A lot of the time people are missing key items for outfits while traveling, so I help them with that by making a shopping list and then go shopping to find those missing items. I like to have certain items that can create

multiple “looks” so that you do not over pack. This is where the styled pictures come into play. I take pictures of styled outfits before packing so you do not have to worry about keeping outfits together. There is a key to packing, and it is like putting a puzzle together. I fold and roll filling in gaps, but fold strategically so to get as much in the suitcase as possible. It is all about being prepared and having confidence with your outfits. My goal is to not over pack but still give people plenty of choices to mix things up. Shoe knowledge is usually the biggest take-away from this process. Again, the key is not over packing shoes or clothing! My process is not hard for me, but it does take an organized mind to streamline the process and make sure that you are stylish along the way! What is trending? I create an annual Spring/Summer & Fall/Winter Forecast report advising my clients on what is coming our way. I do inform my clients that just because it is on the forecast does not mean you have to wear it to be in style. This is just a snapshot of what you probably will see more of in stores. It does not mean you have to go out and buy that right now. I say only buy it if you are inspired and think it will be a nice addition to your wardrobe. I also push my clients to come up with 2-3 different ways you will wear this item before making that purchase. Here are some Spring/Summer Forecast items 2024. We will continue to see a high rise wide leg pant & jeans, lots of denim (dresses, denim-on-denim, denim button-ups, denim shoes, denim handbags), metallics, the return of the modern pencil skirt, Ladylike jackets, collared shirts and knit polos, The White Dress, trench coats, cut-out floral, sheer, rosettes, fringe, crochet, the micro-heel, slingback heels, the fancy ballet flat, sculptural jewelry, raffia bags, sunwashed colors, icy blue colors, and Pantone’s Color for Spring 2024 is peach!

This is just to name a few off of my Spring/Summer Forecast for 2024. One fashion tip is to remember that you can be inspired with trends, but you should always remain true to yourself and your body silhouette. If puffy sleeves are not your thing and you have broad shoulders, then don’t wear that. Style is all about confidence. I like to say, “Fashion has a price, but style does not.” How excited are you for spring? Do you have any favorite styles from Fashion Valley Mall that we should check out? I am always excited for the new seasons! Spring for me usually means that the weather is starting to warm up and vacations/weddings/graduations are being planned for, so something to look forward to. I love the idea of all of the spring colors too, even though I will always love black all year long.:) By the way, we also saw a lot of black on the red carpet this

year for the Oscars! I would say I am very excited for some new stores opening up at Fashion Valley that always carry fantastic styles like Mango, Veronica Beard, Aritzia, Zimmermann, and Gorjana! If you have not checked out the new Bottega Veneta store you should, it is gorgeous. I also love that Fashion Valley has four anchor stores like Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and Macy’s to have even more opportunity to find the perfect interchangeable wardrobe for you! Share your new collaborations and projects for 2024.

there as well. Another new partnership has been with an executive matchmaking company. I absolutely love it! I have been part of their process by helping their clients get styled or shop before they get their headshots and pictures done. My help then translates into what to wear for certain dating occasions. I am thoroughly enjoying this! My big plan for 2024 is to create an on-line subscription service for styling and shopping. I am really trying to cast my net as wide as possible this year while continuing to have that oneon-one exclusive experience for all! www.mymariposastyle.com

I am always collaborating with stores, boutiques, skincare & makeup lines, photographers, and designers. One of my newer partnerships has been as an affiliate for the luxury re-sale company Fashionphile. Not only do I help my clients find the perfect designer handbag or piece of jewelry, but I do private one-of-a-kind presentations

Styled a family of seven for their family photos.

https://www.facebook.com/sandra. veum https://linkedin.com/in/mymaripos astyle/ https://twitter.com/SandraVeum https://instagram.com/sandraveum / https://www.pinterest.com/maripos astyle/

Styled a photoshoot for Chateau Bel Age Boutique.

Mary Beth Kellee Dynamic Force in Real-estate and Event Planning Industry By Jules Lavallee

Mary Beth Kellee is a multifaceted professional with a rich background in real estate, event planning, and community engagement. As the published best-selling author she is celebrated for her ability to create meaningful connections and unforgettable experiences. With a passion for bringing people together, Mary Beth has dedicated herself to supporting various charitable causes and local businesses, including San Diego's vibrant culinary scene. From her early days as the founder of a ballet school at the age of 14, North American Training Director of Laura Ashley and North East Training Director for Shiseido Cosmetics, to her current roles in real estate and event planning, Mary Beth's journey has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of client care. With years of experience in the industry, she possesses a wealth of knowledge that she readily shares with first-time homebuyers and luxury clients alike. Mary Beth's dedication to personalized service ensures that each client receives tailored solutions and expert guidance throughout the real estate process. In addition to her professional endeavors, Mary Beth is an avid supporter of San Diego's chefs and restaurants, showcasing their talent through curated culinary experiences. Whether organizing events for the LGBTQ community project or collaborating with runway fashion designers, she

brings her culinary expertise and knack for event production to create unforgettable moments. Mary Beth's passion for supporting local talent and fostering community connections is evident in everything she does, leaving a lasting impact on those she serves. In summary, Mary Beth Kellee is a dynamic force in the real estate and event planning industries, known for her ability to connect people, support local communities, and create exceptional experiences. With a dedication to excellence, a commitment to client care, and a passion for culinary arts, she continues to make a significant impact in both her professional endeavors and her contributions to the community. You have a rich background in real estate, event planning, and community engagement. Share your backstory. Back in 1996, I made the move from Boston to San Diego with plans to become the North American Training Director for Jenny Craig. It was an exciting opportunity, but fate had other plans. The same month I arrived, Jenny Craig's stock took a historic nosedive on the NY Stock Exchange, halting their hiring process. Funny how life works out sometimes, right? Given my husband's family background in real estate, we decided to pivot and dive into the world of real estate together. We got our licenses and began assisting with their family business and

investing in real estate. Before we knew it, we were named Rookie of the Year, selling multiple properties, and building our own clientele. That's how we crossed paths with Sandra Veum. In 2002, I attended a fundraising event for United Cerebral Palsy, and it struck a chord with me. Memories of a former neighbor in Buffalo, NY, stirred something inside me, and I felt compelled to get involved. I discovered a talent for organizing events and focusing on maximizing net proceeds. I've always been driven by the bottom line—net dollars raised. While it used to be easier to rally support and secure donated resources from our culinary community, times have changed. Nowadays, with rising costs, it's more challenging, but I'm always up for the challenge. I take pride in being a connector, bringing like-minded individuals together to make a difference. It's a passion of mine to leverage my connections for a greater cause.

Your passion for the culinary arts has led you to bring the most memorable events for your clients. Please share your recent events. (What is important to you when working with clients? What makes your event planning unique?)

I love leveraging my events to create unique culinary experiences for guests. By bringing together multiple chefs, each showcasing their signature dishes, it's an opportunity for guests to indulge in a variety of delicious flavors while mingling and networking. The chefs themselves also benefit from the camaraderie, connecting with like-minded professionals in their field. It's a far cry from the traditional sit-down meal with a rubber chicken – these events are vibrant, dynamic, and leave everyone with a taste of something truly special. What will people notice when working with you? What sets me apart is my unwavering integrity, my extensive sphere of influence, and my knack for forging connections. I thrive in multitasking environments, effortlessly getting the job done while rocking a pair of stilettos. Communication is my forte; I'm known for being honest, direct, and incredibly effective in conveying my message. But it's not all business – I believe in having fun and spreading joy wherever I go. I cherish listening to others, understanding their needs, and fostering an environment where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences. This genuine connection allows me to link like-minded individuals, creating meaningful relationships and opportunities for all involved. Giving back is very important to you. Please

share some of the charities you support. (Have you worked on events for them?). Water for Sudan with the Rancho Santa Fe Rotary, The Beach, and Country Guild (president two years in a row) donating money to San Diego's United Cerebral Palsy, Just Like My Child, LGBTQ, Matthew Sheppard Foundation, Proud to be in Baseball, Berry Good Food Foundation, and many more. What do you enjoy the most about real estate? (What areas do you serve? Are the homes for high-value clients?) What I find most exciting about real estate is its diversity; from manufactured homes to multimillion-dollar estates, there's something for everyone. It's fulfilling to assist first-time homebuyers in finding their dream homes and supporting sophisticated investment buyers in making strategic decisions. We approach every transaction with creativity, utilizing out-of-the-box marketing strategies and effective negotiation techniques. Communication is key in our process, ensuring our clients are informed every step of the way. Our dedication doesn't end with the transaction; we believe in providing ongoing client care, following up even years later to ensure their satisfaction. I work with my business partner Philip Fredricksen who is also my husband. Together we are able to divide and conquer all over San Diego County and into Riverside County.

Be in the Now Global Referrals: www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4F

Op_BacZw Tell us about your current projects and vision for 2024. My number one priority is my real estate business. I'm fully immersed in our real estate business, focusing on daily client care, marketing our properties, and expanding our network for new opportunities. I'm currently gearing up for a trunk show in Scottsdale, Arizona, featuring Project Runway fashion designer Gordana "GOGA" Gehlhausen over Memorial Day weekend and this September a fashion event at Cheval Winery, with proceeds going to support the Berry Good Food Foundation. Alongside this exciting project, I also and in talks about producing an LGBTQ event this summer. I'm a strong advocate for our local chefs and restaurants, and I'm actively engaged in supporting our community through social media. It's a busy but fulfilling time, balancing my love for fashion, real estate, and community involvement. Please share your website and social media links. https://www.theknowinsandiego com/. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mary BethKellee.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ma rybeth-kellee-dreammaker%E2%80%9Db25a048/ This link will take you to our YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/ZllTIx_IMD0?si =7d33oBB1ZD_O-DE8

Dr. Darcele Marie Cole-Robinson Cognitive Therapist, Educator, Author, Self-Publisher, and a Co-Author of 4 Anthologies

Dr. Darcele Marie Cole-Robinson, PH. D, LLMSW also received the highest award “The Lifetime Presidential Achievement Award.”

LLMSW married 32 years, to Kenneth Robinson, 3 children, and 1 granddaughter, and 2 goddaughters. She is a Cognitive Therapist, at Grace Counseling. Offering guidance and assistance to help reestablish an emotional and mental foundation of strength and clarity, while learning new skills, Dr. Robinson is an educator, a children's author of 4 books, a selfpublisher, and a co-author of 4 anthologies. She is a member of Genesee County Prevention Coalition and Serenity House as a Board member. She is also a member of the Zeta Beta Zeta Flint Chapter. She is also a founder of a series of nonprofits: Donation with Love Foundation, Nana Darcele Stories, and Travel with the Robinson. Donation with Love Foundation,

5013c, helps all diverse and underserved individuals. We have workshops for seniors and youth, summer camps, and after-school programs. “Journal with the Author.” Our curriculum discusses safe medication, opioid awareness discusses safe medication (over-thecounter and prescription drugs), opioid awareness, grief and loss, human trafficking, and crisis intervention. What or who inspired you to become a Physco Therapist? I always wanted to help people, as I continued to get my education. I decided to become a psychotherapist/Social worker. I have always helped everyone, whatever I could do, to be in assistance with food, clothing, resources, and education. I am ©Red Silk Carpet April 2024- All Rights Reserved

accepting new patients, especially children. I specialize in children with ADHD, Behavioral, Depression, Substance, and Anxiety problems. I am employed at Grace Counseling as a Psychotherapist/Social worker. I also collaborate with Hope of Promise, helping men and women who struggle with substance make a better pathway and those families who struggle need help to help their loved one who is suffering for assistance. How Many years have you been working in this field? I have worked in this field for many years, feeding the hunger, clothing the homeless, giving them resources, and educating those who needed knowledge.

Could you tell us about your children's books? Who or what inspired you to write them? I have always wanted to write books but never dared to PUSH myself. My granddaughter's dog passed away, and she was having a hard time dealing with the loss. So, I sat with her, and we discussed all the great memories she had shared with "Silly Millie". Before I knew it, we had written a book and I decided to publish it, there may maybe other children who may be having the same issues. I kept writing a few other stories, and now I am a children's author. www.nanadarcelestories.com Could you share with us about the 4 books you co-authored, and do you have plans to write more in the future? My 4 books are a series of children's books with coloring book illustrations for children to color after the stories. My children's Books are Kaygan's Adventure: "Save Silly Millie"; Kaygan's Adventure: Surprise at 5; Kaygan's Adventure: Nana Darcele House and Kaygan's Adventure: "Dear Santa, They're the Naughty ones". I plan to continue to write more children's books. Coming soon! Safe Medication Matters and My Feelings Matters. Please tell us about your nonprofits: Donation with Love Foundation, Nana Darcele Stories, and Travel with the Robinson. Tell us about the positive impact these have had on your community.

Donation with Love Foundation (DWLF) established in 2014, is a 5013c nonprofit organization. We operate in the Genesee County Area. Dr. Robinson, founder of DWLF. We are a diverse organization, and we help everyone. DWLF exists because of caring, compassionate, generous people who give of their time, talents, and treasure to help someone in need. We work with dozens of churches, youth groups, schools, colleges, and families who have the desire to make a difference in the lives of someone they may never have the beginnings of a new path to food, clothing, resources, and education. Every individual we serve has a unique story and unique set of needs.

DWLF will provide mentorship and education programs via training workshops and information sessions for individuals across the greater Genesee County area. The class helps individuals improve their academic writing. We will increase the overall awareness of the Opioid Crisis, the realities of Crisis Intervention, human trafficking, Substance abuse, and suicide prevention strategies. They will receive a certificate of completion for their attendance, every completion of the workshop series, and an understanding of how to engage professionals for self or peer mediation. We plan to beat this problem one person at a time. We offer safe medication and overthe-counter medication drugs, Suicide Intervention, Crisis intervention, human trafficking, Narcan training, and grief and loss workshops, afterschool, and summer camp programs. These programs are for Students and Adults.

DWLF also offers to the community, Hoodies 4 the Homeless, Jamin Pjs, H.U.G.S., (Hat, undergarments, gloves, and socks), and The Wrap for Christmas, and this year, we will offer “If Shoes Could Talk”. These events are free to the public. We have now added to our program, the Donations with Love Foundation will be sponsoring the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph R. Biden we will be honoring individuals for all their volunteer services throughout the Genesee County Area.

Our Motto: “When we refresh others in giving, we refresh ourselves.” Nana Darcele Stories, about my children's books. We go out to the schools and read books to the students. Our busiest month is March. The school invites me in to read books, and they purchase a book or coloring book, and each child takes one home. Travel with Robinson, we do the museum, taste of Chicago trips, casino trips, and those who can travel to enjoy themselves to the utmost. We do fundraise to help disabled and diverse individuals to take a vacation. Each one of these organizations has

had a great deal of an impact on our community. Give us a little insight into the Journal with the Author. "Journal with the Author" is a program umbrella under Donation with Love. It is a curriculum to help students be creative in writing short stories, and journals. The creative writing curriculum is to teach and bring awareness to the youths on the importance of brain health. Creative writing is designed for students to create original forms of descriptive writing, poetry, drama, and fiction. The purpose of creative writing to entertain and to share the human experiences of love, joy, pain, and loss. The students will engage in the four parts of the creative writing process: The development of characters, plots, settings, and tension. These programs are offered afterschool programs and summer camps.

Congratulations on all your achievements. Could you tell us what it was like receiving the highest award “The Lifetime Presidential Achievement Award.” Receiving The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award is a big deal for anyone! I do not talk about what I have accomplished. Dr. Robinson * is a Four-time best-selling book writer and author of 4 of my children's books that sell on Amazon. Also collaborated doing a best seller anthology "Joy 365" and "Unseen Heroes" Stories of Triumph in Social Work. * Serves on the boards of several esteemed organizations, including Genesee County Prevention Coalition (GCPC) and Serenity House Communities. The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award is given only to those who have given at least 20 years of service within their communities. The Volunteer Service Award is a president's opportunity to honor volunteers within the community. Candidates must be nominated by an individual within a certified organization.

Kari Elizabeth Publishes Memoir, Discarded: A Journey of SelfDiscovery, Independence, and Healing By Jules Lavallee

Your journey has been of resilience and personal growth.

adult that I started to gain confidence and grow into the woman I am today.

I have always had the inner strength to overcome my life struggles. Growing up, I felt lost and depressed, but I always found a way to keep my head above water, never delving into drugs, alcohol, or other substance abuse coping mechanisms.

I don’t have a great relationship with my adopted or biological mother, but I’ve learned to create my own family through my current friendships. “My friends are my family.”

My adoptive mother was never supportive of me and always put me down and belittled me. In my book Discarded, I discuss my challenging childhood experiences and how I overcame them. I struggled in school and never felt smart enough. After taking a break to get my life together, I eventually graduated college, earning a degree in Journalism from Cal State Univ., Northridge. I also discuss finding my biological family and my struggles to build a healthy relationship with them later in my life, after I had moved out of my adopted mother’s home. It wasn’t until I moved in with my friend after becoming an

Your recently published memoir is Discarded: A Journey of Self-Discovery, Independence, and Healing. The narrative begins with the haunting echoes of abandonment. Take us through your earlier days in foster care and adoption. I grew up with ten adopted siblings. I was the oldest of my adopted siblings, but I never truly felt accepted by my adopted mother. In my book Discarded, I talk about the difficulties I faced as a young child growing up in an abusive household. My adopted mother treated each of us differently; the abuse ranged from emotional, mental, and, at times, physical. I discuss how this affected me and my siblings differently as we entered adulthood and where we are all currently.

This caused me to become shy and keep to myself. I was always scared to interact with people in public or school. I always felt different and never fit in with my classmates at school. I wasn’t allowed to go out at home, which made me super introverted. I found solace in playing basketball in my backyard and getting lost in my imagination. My creative mind always helped me mentally escape my painful reality. In my book, I explain how Maria, my adopted mother’s housekeeper, became more like family and was my saving grace angel. She was always there for me, and if it wasn’t for her unconditional love and support, I don’t know if I would’ve survived growing up in my adopted mother’s house. Maria never made me feel abandoned, but when I found myself alone again, the trauma of abandonment came to the surface. Growing up, it was a constant battle as I found comfort in being alone and building my safety bubble around myself.

How did being put into the foster care system affect your relationship with your twin sister? My twin and I were separated when we were placed into the foster care system as babies. We went to live in two different foster homes, and it wasn’t until we were ten years old that we reunited. My twin sister came to live with me, and we were officially adopted together not long after. In my book Discarded, I discuss how this affected my relationship with my twin sister. She never truly bonded with me or my adopted siblings. I explain how my twin also dealt with our adoptive mother’s abuse towards her as well. My twin and I are opposite, unlike “normal twins.” I explain our differences in my book and how reconnecting with our biological family as young adults also affected our unusual twin dynamic. Your introspection deepens throughout your story. What did you learn about yourself? It took me years to manage my depression and heal from my childhood traumas. It wasn’t until I started therapy and took the time out to take care of myself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually that I began to break free of my painful past and do better for myself in all areas of my life.

I’ve always had to be independent and learn things on my own. In my book, I discuss how my friends helped me understand the responsibilities of becoming a functioning adult. My adoptive mother never taught me these crucial skills. Once I started living independently, I proved I could succeed and have a healthy and happy life. I’ve learned that being alone is okay, that being independent is a strength, and that I can do anything I want. I don’t let any challenges or struggles get me down anymore. What has been your strength during your journey? My strength throughout my journey has been my friends, who genuinely care about and support me unconditionally. They have been my guiding light and cheerleaders as I continue to better myself and my life daily. I also find strength in my selfawareness and ability to take things in life one step at a time. I’ve learned to manage my anxiety in a positive way through mindfulness and meditation. Writing has also become my strength, as well as the way I connect with people. Writing helps me express myself and my feelings, especially when I was once scared to utter a word. Over the years, as I’ve become more confident, I’ve accepted myself

and my gift of writing. It is an exceptional talent I have that has become my superpower in a way. What is your hope for your book? I wrote my book Discarded to inspire others who have experienced similar experiences and felt the same way I have. In my book, I discuss many topics that people can relate to, from being an adopted child, finding my biological family, struggling to fit in at school, work, or society, becoming a young adult, and learning how to be independent and successful. I also discuss the struggles with depression, anxiety, relationships, and the grief of losing a family member, friend, or loved one.

My book has something for everyone. Anyone can feel touched and relate to my personal experiences in some way. I hope my book inspires people to recognize that they aren’t alone and can overcome their struggles in life. Here is the link to my book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/9rg20hh Social Media to Connect with Me: Kari Liz (Facebook), LizKari24(Instagram), KariLiz8(Tiktok) Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.co m/in/lizdwriter/

Ron Kinscherf Explains Why Kids Love Bugs So Much with the Popular “ P a p a Te l l M e ” B o o k S e r i e s By Jules Lavallee

Ron Kinscherf quit a 30-year career in IT Consulting with absolutely no idea for future employment. His daughter-in-law suggested he write children’s books based on the creative way he plays with his grandchildren. Not really taking the suggestion seriously, he got an idea and wrote a story. He got another idea...and another. He shared the stories with some local Quincy, Illinois authors who really liked the product. Long story, short...a business was born. Your daughter-in-law suggested you write children’s books, and the rest is history. Tell us about your first book. I had just left my ‘big boy job’ and we were discussing my options for employment. She knew that I made up stories for my grandkids when I would put them down for a nap. She half-jokingly mentioned that I should start writing them down and selling them.

story while his grandfather puts him down to sleep. The little boy picks the topic. And it's always something he sees in the bedroom … IE a ceiling fan. The book is divided into two sections. Section 1 is Papa telling the story. Section 2 is the grandson falling asleep and dreaming the rest of the story.

I am almost writing two books in one. I get to create an imaginary story that I would tell my grandson. Then I get to make up the rest of the story from the brain of the three- year-old and the things that he has experienced so far in his life. I also have used real comments and discussions from my grandkids. The book is illustrated in a unique fashion. While the grandfather is telling the story, it’s a sketchy water-color style, and for the little boys’ dreams we use a very childish South Park style. On the final page we combine the two.

The first book One evening I was out back grilling, and my grandson was smashing the anthills on my brick patio. I started wondering how the ants felt about that, so I came up with an idea to write a story from the ant’s point of view. And I kept getting more ideas of things that my colony could experience … so I kept writing. That’s how the Bakers’ Patio series came to be.

Why do kids love these books so much?

Your style is both the child and reader. Take us through your creative process for Papa Tell Me a Book Series.

I did get to visit one my grandkids classes this year and he thought that was kind of special.

This series is a blast to create. In a nutshell, the story starts with a 3year-old grandson asking for a

I started this when my oldest grandkid was 3, so they know nothing else. No different than any other job I would have as they grow up. It’s just a part of who papa is! It’s fun when I read the story, and they notice something that they had said or that we had discussed … and they ask if the book really says that!

As for the general population of children … that’s tough. Kids love bugs. The illustrations are darn good and unique. And I

think a big part is that parents like reading the books and that enthusiasm is noticed by the kids. What was important to you when illustrating your books? Great question. For the general layout. As a grandparent you notice SO MANY things you didn’t when you were a parent. We do not have the stress of everyday life as the parents do. All the text will be on a light background so it can be read in a dimly lit room. I pick a font and size that is easier for older folks to read. All the words are specifically chosen that almost all three-yearolds will have in their vocabulary. I wanted my illustrations to be incredibly unique … something I had never seen before. I had to differentiate myself from all the others that are out there. I mentioned the two differing styles for the Papa Tell me a Book Series. For the Bakers’ Patio series, I stole from the music video Take on Me from the bank A-Ha. Color pictures on a gray scale sketchy background. The intent was to make the images pop a bit more and also highlight some drawings in the background. Everything the colony creates in the Bakers’ Patio series is from items they would scrounge; twigs, tongue depressors, acorns, a business card … anything that would be on the ground. And we also try to throw in some things only the adults would recognize like legwarmers on an ant working out. A dashboard dancing hula girl. Things like that.

What is the secret sauce to your books? What I try to do is create something entertaining not only for the kid but for the adults. And I use myself and my grandkids as a barometer. It’s critical to me that the adults like my product. If adults like my books, they are more apt to buy them. They have the money after all. I want the book to have humor and be enjoyable … and if I can snake a message in there, wonderful. And if there is a message, I want it to be subtle and not spelled out. I feel that may lead to more discussion between the reader and the child. Also, in real life, life messages don’t hit you in the head like a hammer, do they? Are you working on a new book?

Yes, and always. I have many written that aren’t published. And as I come up with new ideas, I modify what has been written in the past. The next book will be about a newborn ant named Adorable, but everyone calls her Dora. The message is how a newborn can affect the family dynamic … particularly an older sibling. After that, spin the wheel and we see what shakes out! I have ideas for bullying, racism, putting our best effort with a positive attitude, cooperation, to name a few. What’s cool about the Bakers’ Patio Series is that I can take just about anything that any of us have experienced and incorporate that into my little colony. Reviews: “Kinscherf proves that it takes exceptional talent and imagination to write books for children. His talent is on full display in all his books, which even I, an adult, got a kick out of reading. If you are a parent or

grandparent and you’re looking for the perfect book for children, be sure to check out Mr. Kinscherf’s books.” “This series makes me want to conduct a story time! The illustrations are perfectly tuned with the words to give the young reader so much to discover and enjoy. A very fun experience for both the reader and listener! A plus for any library or home collection. There are even subtle messages tucked in throughout.” “Ron Kinscherf's latest in the Baker's Patio books is just darling. I wish I'd read this when I was four or five. Learning to be secure and satisfied in one's own company with one's own confidence at an early age is a gift that gives for a lifetime.” “If you have not discovered Ron Kinscherf’s books please make a point to do so. You, your children, and your grandchildren will be thankful for the memories these books instill. www.papatellmeabook.com

New Book For Fr ustrated Parents of Te e n s i n a S o c i a l M e d i a A g e , by Dr. Bill Senyard By Jules Lavallee

Dr. Bill Senyard’s life has taken him from being an engineer, strategic management consultant, co-owner of an Inc. 500 high-tech company, to church ministry where he served multiple congregations over 30 years. He is a popular conference and convention speaker in the US and abroad. He has written a number of books and workbooks on a wide range of important topics including, how to forgive the unforgivable, how frustrated parents of teens can be “more good enough parents” and most importantly, God’s love for the unlovable. He produced popular video series on Right Now Media and LifestreamTV networks and has a weekly podcast, Gospel Rant. He is a nationally syndicated columnist for The Price of Business and is the president of Gospel App Ministries. He and his wife Eunice live in Golden, Colorado. Red Silk Carpet spoke with Dr. Bill Senyard about his new book, Tale of the Unlikely Prince.” You’ve had a dynamic career. Tell us about your background and what led you to ministry. I have been very fortunate in my career, my many careers. I joke that I haven’t been able to keep a steady job. I have been an engineer in a chemical plant, a chemical salesman for an international chemical company, a strategic management consultant for Fortune 500 companies, and a partner/General Manager of a high-tech international consulting company. But then, the craziest thing happened that surprised us all, me most of all. I wanted to visit Regent College in British Columbia to visit with one of my favorite Christian writers. Unfortunately, there was an honest mix-up with his staff, and I was stood up. The receptionist graciously said, “But since you are here, would you like to meet with Dr. James Houston?” I rudely looked at my watch—just to make a point—and sighed, “Sure, I am here, my plane doesn’t leave for another couple of hours, so might as well.” I remember being pretty rude overall. She led me to a small corner office. There was

this white-haired older man sitting in a big old overstuffed chair, wearing a British smoking jacket with patches on the elbow, smoking a long old timey pipe. Honestly, he looked like a garden gnome. I had pretty low expectations for the meeting. We chatted for a moment or two when he abruptly said with a very thick Scottish brogue, “Excuse me, do you mind if I tell you about your mother?” Not what I expected to be sure. In fact, I was speechless. I must have nodded because he began to describe her in surprising detail. My mother was a special and quirky lady. He was spot on. I didn’t say anything. Then he added again with his thick Scottish accent. “I think I can take a shot at your father too!” And he did. After another long pause, he leaned forward and said, “I think I can tell you the desire of your heart.” I don’t recall what he said at all. I do recall bawling like a baby. Looking back, I am pretty sure that I didn’t believe I had a desire in my heart. I was just doing the best I could to survive. This concept was radical, for a stranger to be telling me that I have such a thing and that there is someone who can help me find it. I finally blurted out, “Is that what you do here?” He said with a broad Chesire grin, “Aye, we try!” I had been a Christian for 15 years by then but didn’t really know of a God who was truly interested in such a thing for me or others. I will admit, I just assumed he was distant and had better things to do than bother with me. At Regent, I came to see it is the very nature of God to love the unlovable, the unloved, and the unlovely, and that’s all of us on any given day if we were just a little bit honest. I have carried that core message throughout my thirty years as a pastor in three different churches in the US and Canada. It is amazing how people and relationships are affected when they find one person who loves them and truly has their backs no matter what.

Tell us about your new book, “Tale of the Unlikely Prince” which is captivating readers worldwide. In 2022, I created an online resource for Christian parents of teens and tweens called “Good Enough Parent” (www.goodenoughparent.online). It was in response to so many conversations with so many parents who are increasingly frustrated today, very concerned with the confusing and often destructive messaging of social media. Per the CDC, a shocking 42% of adolescents are experiencing sadness and hopelessness (up 50% from 2011). Twenty-two percent of all teens have considered attempting suicide (up 36% from 2011). Parents of adolescents are looking for help— some positive alternative to social media. The prince in the Tale of the Unlikely Prince is a fictional composite of our teens, boys, and girls. He is insecure and struggles to feel worthy of the King’s attention, unlovable based upon difficult past relationships, and feels the same sadness and hopelessness teens are experiencing in the real world. He wonders if he will ever be loved and feel worthy. One of my favorite child psychologists has said, “Every child needs at least one adult who is irrationally crazy about him or her.” The prince doesn’t feel he has that one person. 10–15-year-olds will likely resonate with the Prince personally or recognize his struggles. What does he do to fix his problem? He decides to ask the King for a stunning quest that would prove his worth and value in the eyes of the Kingdom—and the mirror. This is the typical historic quest-trope. We all recognize it. The insecure untested prince goes out on a quest and through hard work, skill, wisdom, a little luck, and often secret magic, comes home a victorious and successful knight, worthy of honor— and lives happily ever after.

But what if he fails? Then what? This is what today’s adolescents fear, particularly in this post-COVID, highly polarized and angry world. The prince of our story will have to learn where true worth and lovability come from. It turns out that quests actually aren’t designed—certainly not real-life quests—to make insecure lonely and isolated teens feel lovable or worthy. But there is another path. We could have described the story as fresh radical hope for todays hopeless. Testimonials: "Tale of the Unlikely Prince follows the style and impact of a C.S. Lewis fiction spellbinder for teens and young adults alike. It's also the perfect birthday or holiday gift to both entertain and inspire with eternal truths embedded in a pageturning thriller. Make certain you share this book with every young person you know!" -Dr. Larry Keefauver, Bestselling Author, and International Teacher. “Life Changing Book! Such humor in young adult books is very much appreciated. This book does it very well.” Larry Yoder, Publisher’s Representative and Developmental Editor. "Tale of the Unlikely Prince, is a fantasy told with great flavor in the age-old art of storytelling. The story promotes life-changing lessons that all young people must face at one time or another. This adventurous epic fantasy will appeal to young adults and even a few older readers as well." Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Author.

the Unlikely Prince is a Christian young adult fantasy for 10-15-yearolds that embraces the storytelling philosophy of C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia. It is part of a larger trilogy to be completed by the end of the year. If you recall, Lewis’ books were written in the dark shadow of WWII when children’s lives in Great Britain had been wildly disrupted by a frightening evil, the Nazi regime. They needed tales of hope, where good actually overcomes evil in the end. In Lewis’s books, there is always a protagonist who is ultimately good, powerful, and willing to even die to save the children. Unfortunately, too often, protagonists in our children’s books today are weaker, ambivalent, and often selfish anti-heroes. Such stories can be inherently anxietyproducing for adolescents at a time when they are struggling for security. Lewis would write that such a template makes the reader's “destiny not brighter but darker.”

The Tale of the Unlikely Prince is not just another exciting, quirky, and fun, tween-age fantasy book about quests, princes, and dragons. It is also a sophisticated coming-of-age book about an insecure teen who has suffered past relational trauma and struggles to feel lovable and worthy. Here’s what people are saying about the book. "Tale of the Unlikely Prince follows the style and impact of a C.S. Lewis fiction spellbinder for teens and young adults alike.” -Dr. Larry Keefauver, Bestselling Author, and International Teacher.

Share your mission for your book. I believe that one of the ways parents can push back against social media today is to positively offer our children ‘better’ stories. The Tale of

“Life Changing Book! Such humor in young adult books is very much appreciated. This book does it very well.” Larry Yoder, Publisher’s Representative and Developmental

Editor. "Tale of the Unlikely Prince, is a fantasy told with great flavor in the age-old art of storytelling. The story promotes life-changing lessons that all young people must face at one time or another. This adventurous epic fantasy will appeal to young adults and even a few older readers as well." Emily-Jane Hills Orford, Author. Tale of the Unlikely Prince has been awarded a 5-star review by Readers’ Favorite for young adult fantasy. It is available now on Amazon, Kindle, and Audible. The other two books in the trilogy will be available later this summer. You are a popular conference speaker. Please share your topics and upcoming engagements. My doctoral thesis was about designing a better way where hurting people could begin to forgive the unforgivable. We have had over 1000 beat-up people go through our online “Forgiving Path” (www.forgivingpath.com) where, in just a couple of hours, participants experience on average 21% reduction in desire to avoid the person/institution who hurt them, 38% increase in empathy for the perpetrator and 20% decrease in desire for revenge. I have spoken to groups or conferences in five countries on the topic of how to better forgive, including beat-up black township churches in Johannesburg. Other popular conference topics include how to become a betterenough parent, how to use attachment theory to improve identity and relationships, marriage conferences, and how biblical principles can begin to defeat addiction.

I have published two other books recently. The Rabboni is a historic fiction about the apostle Matthew’s last days as a missionary to Ethiopia. It includes a great deal of research on the first century Middle East for all history buffs. It also includes a radical exposition of Jesus’ sermon on the mount that could very well change lives. What Jesus said was so in the face of the philosophies of Rome and Judaism, it is surprising to me that he wasn’t killed on the spot. It is wildly powerful. The other book is called “Dance Daughters of the Most High!” It has been no secret that so much of Biblical teaching has been historically generated through the lens of male theologians, and sometimes, misogynistic male theologians, unfortunately. Sadly, there are many women in the Old and New Testaments, then, who have been misunderstood, overlooked, or unappreciated. It is time to have some fun and hear the stories of

these mothers of our faith. •Did you know there was a woman who almost singlehandedly saved the line of Jesus? Her story reads like a Mission Impossible thriller. •Did you know another woman’s quick actions may have rescued the Exodus while Moses stood by and did nothing? •Another woman snatched her vital city from a rampaging psychopathic general. Her actions may have kept David’s fragile kingdom from splintering further. She is included in the ancient Jewish list of the twentythree truly upright and righteous women who came out of Israel. •Against many odds, another woman—not even a Jew— defeated one of the most feared generals of her day. As a reward, Jewish scholars proclaimed her to be even more blessed than the four renowned Jewish matriarchs, Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, and Leah.

Women and men will be inspired by the fascinating accounts of these noble mothers of our faith. It is high time they received their due. Tell us about the Gospel app. Simply put, Gospel App Ministries is passionate about proclaiming God’s love for the unlovable, the unloved, and the unlovely, and that’s all of us on any given day, if we were just a little bit honest. To that end, we have designed and created books, workbooks, videos, podcasts, conferences, and shows to help real people become more aware of this often-overlooked principle.

Dr. Bill Senyard’s book Tale of the Unlikely Prince is available on Amazon, Kindle, Audible, and other online stores. Want more info? Check out www.gospelapp.com/KingdomQuest.

Toni Haas Shares Award-winning “Goodnight Surf City” Series By Jules Lavallee

Toni Haas, a fifth-generation Southern Californian, beautifully intertwines her love for art and her deep roots in Huntington Beach within her work. Growing up in the San Bernardino Mountains and having spent numerous summers in Huntington Beach before making it her home in the late 80's, Toni's connection with the locale shines brightly in her narratives. Today, Toni cherishes moments with her five grandchildren. For Toni, life is about family, nature, and making unforgettable memories.

Share your memories growing up in Southern California. I have fond memories of growing up in Southern California, Running Springs, which is located in the San Bernardino Mountains. I’m the youngest of 5 in my family. My parents and family worked yearround in operations at a local ski area, Snow Valley for many years. Winters were for skiing and summers were for camping at the beach.

My siblings and I grew up skiing competitively for many years on the local race team and the Far West Ski Association (FWSA), which is one of the country’s largest ski associations and is a non-profit, volunteer organization with emphasis on skier safety, ski travel, ski area development, communications, club programs and family ski involvement. We also participated in the PTA ski program at Charles Hoffman Elementary school and the Rim of The World High School ski team. I started skiing at 3 years old and competing at 5 years old along with all of my siblings.

During the winter, we would ski and travel to competitions at other So Cal ski areas such as Holiday Hill, June Mountain, Mammoth Mountain and sometimes we would camp at Badger Pass. My mom would always give me cool nature coloring books to keep busy on the ride up. Skiing is one of the few sports that families can do together, and we were a ski family for sure!

During the summers, I remember my mom brought her old roller skates to work and I learned how to roller skate at the ski area parking lot. I would swim in the lakes and go hiking as well. It was beautiful there. My brother Scot Sessions and I remember when we were part of the ski team, we would go spread straw on the bare ski hills to earn our annual passes. We usually did this in the fall so it wouldn’t blow away in the summer. That way when it got wet or snowed on, it would stay down. Why straw? To help with erosion control. In the fall when it would rain, big gulleys would form, and the straw would help keep the dirt from washing away. Also, in the spring when the snow would melt, the straw would keep the dirt from eroding down the ski runs. I spent a lot of time year-round at the ski area and worked there as well when I got older. Summer in the mountains was fun, always exploring nature, going hiking and swimming at Deep Creek Lake and Lake Arrowhead. I especially loved summertime lightning & thunderstorms. We always had a roaring fire in our fireplace during all seasons!!! The mountains were a magical place to grow up in and I loved all of the seasons and the nature surrounding us.

Our family went camping every summer with family friends and it was always so fun!!! Our families’ favorite places to camp were San Onofre State Beach and Doheny State Beach. I have a lot of fun memories camping with my family. I remember we camped at San Onofre, towards the end at trail 6 and that’s when they had the army water tanks to take showers under in the early 1970’s. I believe they were brought down from Camp Pendleton. My family had (2) St. Bernards, Toro and Trina and they always went camping with us. I remember sometimes we would bump into one of the lifeguards at San Onofre who worked as ski patrol

during the winter. I have always had relatives living in the Fountain Valley and the Huntington Beach area since I can remember and spent time with them during summer too. I loved hanging out with my cousins and going to the beach. I fell in love with the beach!!! Particularly, Huntington Beach, which became my permanent resident in the early 1980’s. I have really had the best of both worlds, living in the mountains and at the beach.

Your book, “Goodnight Surf City” is a fascinating ride of adventure & memories. Take us through your book. Thank you, it’s a beautiful rhyme and picture book I illustrated. I felt like the rhyme was a good way to tell the story by breaking the words down and it would be easier for younger children to read. It was such a fun book to write and illustrate. I have 2 daughter’s, Ivy, and Autumn, along with a neighbor and they were my mommy beta readers and editors. They were a huge support and helped me so much. I hadn’t painted for 35 years, and I always loved to draw and paint since I was a little girl. Being the empty nester I am, I picked up a paint brush again. I thought, “wouldn’t it be fun to create a book for all of my grandkids.” I continued to come up with ideas, visualize the illustrations and from there they flowed out of me, creating this fun book. I wrote and illustrated this book for my grandchildren. I have 1 here in Orange County and 4 in New Zealand. Another grandbaby is on the way in the O.C. area and I’m so excited to meet him soon. If I were to tell the story by looking through the illustrations, I could also tell the story this way to give you more of a visualization of what the story is about. Author & Artist Toni Haas "Goodnight Surf City" https://youtu.be/-DETFdjDos?si=2UwPYcKZtnEG00Z4

Goodnight Surf City – in other words As the warm summer evening settles in, it’s time for a visit at Grandma’s house in Huntington Beach. The anticipation builds as we hop into her vintage 62-year-old Volkswagen bus, with its faded blue paint and retro surfboard on top. As we come to a stop, we see a sign with all of our favorite spots. It’s a symbol of the adventures that await us in the Surf City. Our first stop is Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH as it’s known to the locals. We take a leisurely drive down Pacific Coast Highway, where we catch glimpses of the beautiful beach and the waves crashing against the shore. We can’t resist pulling over to take a closer look and breathe in the salty sea air. As we continue our drive, we arrive at the beach and park near the pier. Grandma’s grandkids, Kove, Kana, Kohia, Raia and Legend, are eager to hit the sand and start building a sandcastle. We also spot some dolphins playing in the distance, adding to the magical atmosphere of the beach. As the sun begins to set, Kohia excitedly pulls out her kite and we all take turns flying it. The gentle summer beach breeze makes it the perfect evening for kite flying. We spend some time soaking in the last rays of sunshine before heading to our next stop – the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum. Grandma is a big fan of surfing, and she loves sharing stories of the past with her grandkids. At the museum, we get to see some famous surfboards and learn about the history of surfing in Huntington Beach. We also can’t resist taking a photo with the World’s Largest Surfboard, a popular attraction at the museum. After all that walking and learning, it’s time for a treat. We make our way to Pacific City, a popular outdoor shopping and dining destination in Huntington Beach. We stop at a local ice cream shop and indulge in some delicious scoops of our favorite flavors.

As the evening progresses, we decide to have a bonfire at the beach. We roast marshmallows and make some gooey s’mores while enjoying the company of each other and the peaceful sound of the waves. We also make a quick trip to the dog beach nearby, where we watch the playful pups frolicking in the water. Feeling energized, we take a cruise down Main Street, one of the most vibrant areas in Huntington Beach. We stop at a dessert bar for another tasty treat because there’s no such thing as too many treats when you’re with Grandma. Kana and Kove suggest a visit to the local skatepark, and we happily oblige. We watch in awe as skateboarders perform impressive tricks. After all the excitement, we work up an appetite and head to our favorite Mexican cantina for some delicious tacos. With satisfied bellies, we head to the nearby kayaking spot for a quick paddle. It’s the perfect way to wind down before heading to our next stop – Central Park. We make a quick stop to visit the ducks at the park and then head to the nearby Wetlands to experience some wildlife. As the sun starts to set, we make our way to the iconic Huntington Beach Pier to take in the breathtaking views of the colorful sunset. The beauty of the moment is not lost on us as we soak in the sights and sounds of the ocean. Before heading home, we make a quick stop at a surf shop to grab some souvenirs and then it’s off to bed. As we say goodnight to Surf City, we can’t help but feel grateful for the memories we’ve made and the experiences we’ve shared. We know we’ll be back soon for another adventure with Grandma in Huntington Beach. Goodnight, Surf City, see you soon! www.youtube.com/shorts/BnTF0OUyhM How much fun is it to read your story with your grandchildren?

It’s really fun to read it to my grandson located here in O.C., especially when we point him out in an illustration. He gets really excited when he sees his dad surfing in the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum illustration. I can’t wait to read it in person to my (4) grandchildren in New Zealand. I haven’t had the chance to read it to them live yet. When we facetime chat, they all tell me they love it. I’m thinking of adding a video reading the book for my grandchildren on my YouTube channel, @ToniHaasnv5eo. I think when they see themselves illustrated in the book, it captivates their attention along with the bright wonderful illustrations and places they remember when they come out to visit me. Also, the grandchildren can search for their names, which I have hidden throughout the book. What are a few takeaways from “Goodnight Surf City?”

Adventure awaits everywhere, you just need to find all the adventurers you want to go on. Go out and make memories with your friends, family and by yourself. Take that family vacation, be an explorer, be a wanderer. Huntington Beach, Surf City is calling, let’s go!!! What’s next? I am doing a scavenger hunt this Summer in conjunction with my book to visit spots illustrated in my book that weren't named in the book. People can go to visit spots on the scavenger hunt and there will be a logo of Goodnight Surf City at the place of business, so they can post photos they found it. The first family to post all of the spots will get an awesome giveaway. Goodnightsurfcity.com Instagram @Goodnightsurfcity https://realwords.media/listen

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Scott Meehan Book "Duty Recall" is a Thought-Provoking Journey Through Time By Jules Lavallee

Scott Meehan is a middle school U.S. History teacher and writer originally from Baltimore, Maryland. He has a bachelor’s in education from Southeastern University, a master's in Computer Resource and Information Management from Webster University, and a master's in Business Administration (MBA) from Capella University. After retiring from a successful Army career of twenty-five years, he embarked upon a career as an educator, photographer, and writer. Scott is a Bronze Star recipient with two tours to Iraq and a deployment to Saudi Arabia during Desert Storm. He has won "Honorable Mention" in the "Proud to Be: Writing By American Warriors, Vol.11" and finished third in the Army wide photography contest in 2010. Meehan currently resides in Orlando, Florida, where he and his wife of forty-two years live in the vicinity of their son, his wife and two children and their daughter and her three children. He has written ten novels and one memoir.

twists and turns of my military and post-military life, recounting the moments of uncertainty, the challenges faced, and the triumphs achieved. It’s a story that begins from the battlefield and ends in a classroom. I do mention some of my moments behind the lens and what inspired me to take the photos that I took to capture the moment, and the joys of teaching U.S. History to 8th graders. So, the multifaceted nature of my journey will be exposed to the public. "The Battlefield and Beyond" not only chronicles my personal experiences but also serves as a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and determination. It is a story of transformation, of discovering new passions and embracing unexpected opportunities, all the aspects that I met along the way in reaching my current state.

After retiring from a successful Army career of twenty-five years, you embarked upon a career as an educator, photographer, and writer. Tell us about your journey and your first book.

My first book, written in 2010, offered readers a glimpse into the complexities of the military life and the profound impact it had on my identity and sense of purpose. I attribute the “cutand-dry” style, which was characterized by simplicity, and directness, in my first book as me being a writer with a lack of experience in writing.

My journey after retiring from a fulfilling twenty-five-year Army career took a unique and divinely directed path, leading me down unexpected avenues with several detours. My roles as an educator, photographer, and writer is being vividly portrayed in my new project, "The Battlefield and Beyond.“ I basically express the various

My current project emphasizes creative language and elaborate metaphors, styles I have learned through the years by reading about writing, such as in the Writer’s Digest. This way, I believe I can better inspire others to embrace the unknown, to follow their passions, and to trust in the guiding hand of destiny, even when the path ahead may seem uncertain

through my words. What was your inspiration for Duty Recall? Tell us about the main character, Major David Allan. "Duty Recall" is a thoughtprovoking journey through time, blending elements of reflection and speculative fiction. Inspired by my own inner contemplation and the exploration of life's “what-if” scenarios, the narrative seamlessly connects two significant wars I was involved in: "Operation Iraqi Freedom" and "Desert Storm." I remember telling people when I returned from Desert Storm in ’91 that this wasn’t over. Our sons and daughters will now have to finish it. Twelve years later, I was back in the Middle East.

The book was set against the backdrop of the 90s decade. Through its pages, readers are invited to ponder the consequences of pivotal moments and decisions, as well as the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. It has been my most popular book. As Major David Allen (me, based on fictional and nonfictional accounts) navigates the twists and turns of this temporal odyssey, he and his family confront their own past and present selves, grappling with questions of identity, purpose, and legacy. I’d like to think that through vivid storytelling and evocative imagery, "Duty Recall" offers readers a compelling exploration of the human experience and the profound impact of our choices on the course of history.

You have a unique blend of diversity, discipline, and leadership skills. Can you share your best work? My books reflect my own life. My background is woven from diverse experiences, each contributing to a unique blend of skills and perspectives. As a missionary kid attending thirteen schools in twelve years across America and South America, I gained a deep appreciation for diversity and adaptability. This nomadic upbringing instilled in me a resilience and flexibility that would serve as invaluable assets throughout my military career and life in general. In the military, I came across a myriad of challenges and opportunities for growth, from deployments to the Middle East, to a three-year assignment in Berlin during a pivotal moment in history. My leadership skills were put to the test in diverse and demanding environments. I believe that my ability to inspire and motivate others that set me apart as a natural leader can be translated in my writings. I can leverage my unique blend of diversity, discipline, and leadership skills as a testament to the richness of my experiences and the depth of my character. It is a foundation upon which I continue to build, draw upon, and share with others through my writings and in the classroom. I want the current project to be my best work. As a current standalone, probably, “Duty Recall.” I do have a four-book series that features the first female Green Beret (fictional, written six years prior to the actual) who fights against Human Trafficking and has an AI as a protege.

What captivates your readers? Probably the unexpected, uniqueness, and what the reviews have indicated, thrilling realism: “Author Meehan has written a clever story with well-defined, relatable characters with crisply written dialogue. “Duty Recall” is an easy and enjoyable read with enough twists to make one want to turn the pages quickly to see what happens next.” - “He painted a beautiful picture of that rugged country (Afghanistan) and made me feel as if I was there, viewing the desolation, feeling the cold, and understanding the plight of the heroine. A nice mix of military and love story, with just enough conflicting religious views thrown in as this U.S. Army medic and Afghani nurse try to blend their lives. Toss in realistic carnage by the Taliban to throw a monkey wrench into the works and Scott’s novel is a winner.” How have you evolved as a writer? As I mentioned briefly in question #1, I have learned to use creative language, elaborate metaphors, and a few embellishments while doing my best to avoid distractions. I have learned through the years by reading about writing, such as a subscription I had for the Writer’s Digest. From this, I convey more of an emotional and insightful portrayal of my characters and the events. Also, as previously mentioned, it is an effort to gain and elicit readers and their responses to embrace the unknown, to follow their passions, and to trust in the guiding hand of destiny, even when the path ahead may seem uncertain through my words.

My message is Hope. Tell us about your new book release. The book will begin as a re-write of “Stone In A Sling: A Soldier’s Journey” with my new style of elaboration and emotion. I think what may have been lost in translation from my inexperienced writing was the significant story itself. For example, the book blurb has a portion that states the following: “Uncover the riveting untold story of how this soldier's intelligence and bravery played a vital role in capturing one of the world's most notorious figures, Saddam Hussein. Delve into the shadows of Cold War espionage as Major Meehan assumes the role of a spy, infiltrating the depths of the Soviet Union's secret operations. The double life, the high-stakes risks, and the constant balancing act between duty and personal life paint a vivid portrait of the life of a true patriot.” would have thought that this would generate more interest. Probably would have if I had gone through Traditional Publishing. But I have not figured out how to “Crack the Nut” yet in obtaining a Literary Agent. Also, as previously mentioned, "The Battlefield and Beyond" not only takes a new revised look at my first memoirs, but, as previously mentioned, it chronicles my personal experiences of discovering new passions and embracing unexpected opportunities. https://www.facebook.com/Alla nScottMee

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Visionary Leader Lakisha Adams, Co-Author of Best-Selling Anthology, Joy 365 Devotional By Jules Lavallee

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Lakisha Adams, Retired Air Force, a tenacious, dynamic, visionary with a stellar 25+ year Human Resource Management record of success in leadership, change-management and creative problem-solving to operationalize strategies uniting diverse mission sets. She enjoys public speaking and serving the community while inspiring others to be uplifting and positive influences.

Thank you for your service. Please share your success in leadership. While serving in the Air Force, Earned Excellence in Leadership Awards. Selected to lead projects that earned my organization #2 ranking in Commander in Chief Excellence Award competition. Foundation for Success in Leadership is the team of people. Whether at entry level or senior level everyone has something to contribute to the mission. By creating a compelling vision and xxxx communication with a foundation of comprehensive training and development, forwardthinking high-performing teams are born. Great leaders emerge from empowered teams. Tell us about when you received the cancer diagnosis. “After so many gloomy days, I knew I needed to find the faith, courage, and strength for survival. On the stormiest of all, I found myself alone. The silence was so loud, I could hear my own heartbeat.”

After receiving the cancer diagnosis, I was heartbroken for so many reasons. I had already been through so many traumatic events in my life as a service member and mother. God brought us (my children and I) through a tough time where racial

tensions were high in the country, and we were not accepted in the community we lived in. I fought many battles with the local government with the support of local and state civil rights organizations and was ultimately able to protect them and their futures. This new battle called Cancer, I had to explain to my children what it meant to fight this battle. This time they needed to stand by my side, love and support me through treatment. As we always had, I just wanted to focus on Survival. As I tried to find the right words and the right setting to explain how cancer can impact a family, I found myself alone, second-guessing my chance of survival even though God had brought me through so much. I spent too much time alone; I was speaking to no one else but God. The time I needed to hear God say remain faithful, stay encouraged, I am your strength. Prayed to God that it was best to only share my Cancer diagnosis with close family and friends to protect my children and family. Their love, support and caregiving was enough to deal with dealing with Cancer treatments during the COVID pandemic. We had our Faith in God, the Courage to Fight and the Strength to help each other carry on. My Quotes: Loving Yourself, Investing in Yourself opens Worlds of Possibilities, Makes the Insurmountable Conquerable! Loving Yourself, Investing in Yourself…Your Smile Mesmerizes, Your Spirit Illuminates, You Conquer All that you Desire in Your World!

My Daily Prayer: Kisha…The righteous cry out and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. The Lord will keep you from all harm, he will watch over your life. The Joy of the LORD is your strength, the trial (suffering) will not last forever. Before long, your generous God has great plans for you. Tell us about your best seller, coauthoring Joy 365 with Dr. Vernessa Blackwell. Working with Dr. Vernessa “Dr. Vee” Blackwell on the JOY 365 Anthology and Devotional was a Blessing! She was an Inspiration and Blessing long before I even put pen to paper for my contribution to the project. A mutual veteran friend shared her experience in working with Dr. Vee and how she spreads joy around the world through testimonials and inspirational messages while encouraging other prospective authors to the same. She is more than a MultiInternational Best-Selling Author and Publisher; she is a Beautifully Spirited Woman of Faith. She inspires people with her life’s work, she prays with us and prays for us while still teaching and encouraging us to reach our goals as authors. So thankful to Dr. Vee for helping me jump into this new venture and meeting so many wonderful coauthors. So excited to work with her on future projects! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kisha.a dams73 Instagram: @ki.ann.4

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J u d y F a m b r o u g h-B i l l i n g s l e y , Memoir,

“Too Brown to Keep” By Jules Lavallee

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Judy Fambrough-Billingsley had always wondered, “Who am I?” This basic human need to discover the answer began a lifelong quest for the answer to many questions. During her journey of discovery, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, a California Lifetime teaching credential, and a Master’s in Education Administration from the University of La Verne, California. Retired, mother to two sons and four grandsons, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Eta Gamma Sorority, and a member of The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Sacramento Chapter, the author finds time to serve her church and community in many ways.

You have a powerful story to tell. Take us back to Germany and your adoption. I was born in Germany to Else Nee Claassen, a White-German woman, and Earl J. Laughton, an African American Army Soldier who died shortly after World War II. I grew up in the small village of Bingenheim, Germany, with my mother and two sisters, Helga and Imgard. My father lived on the American base, visiting when he could. Due to various circumstances, they never married. One afternoon, my sister and I played on our village church lawn down the street from my flat. While playing, a car approached and stopped, giving us just enough time to be placed in the back seat of a stranger’s car. We were driven out of the village, never to see my mother, sister, babysitter, or villagers again. Stunned and frightened, I sat quietly, not knowing that my birth mother had made these arrangements. Two hours later, I arrived at St. Josef Kinderheim in Mannheim,

Germany, joining hundreds of biracial “Occupied” children abandoned by their mothers to live in the Kinderheim until adopted. There were 37,000 biracial “Occupation Babies” born throughout Europe; however, 5,000 of us were born in Germany. We were unique because it was the first war in which thousands of mixedrace children were born, and neither country wanted to take responsibility for us. Both Germany and the United States saw us as a “Problem.” We were children without a country. Known as the “Brown Baby Project” and sanctioned by Germany and the United States government, many of us were advertised throughout Europe and America in local newspapers and television. Mother Webber, my village babysitter, discovered what happened to us when suddenly my picture appeared in an adoption advertisement on German television. Along with many others, we were advertised in the Afro Newspaper in Baltimore, Maryland, encouraging African American couples to adopt us. I lived at St. Josef Kinderheim until an American couple adopted me. Over several years, about 500 of us were adopted and flown to New York’s International Airport, flying over the Statue of Liberty. We arrived in America with the clothes on our backs and a bag given to us by the airline. Upon landing in New York, we were escorted off the plane to meet our adopted parents for the first time. Arriving in a foreign country with a foreign language, culture, and environment, I began my journey of discovery and adjustment in America. I know firsthand how important it is to be adopted by parents who bring love and stability to an abandoned

world of a child. I was blessed to have two parents with Christian values who focused on raising me to become a strong, independent, educated woman. Your “Too Brown to Keep” memoir has garnered national attention. Please share with us your journey to find your birth parents. Humans are compelled to answer the question, “Who am I?” Our sense of identity affects everything in our lives—from our choices to our values. Our identity is our allencompassing system of memories, experiences, feelings, thoughts, relationships, and values that define us. This subconscious question is often answered through family pictures on the wall, family reunions, and being introduced to cousins, aunts, and uncles. Being abandoned very early, I had no reference in which to answer that question. My adopted father, “Daddy,” never hid from me that I was adopted. In the sixth grade, my teacher asked us to write about which parents we looked like the most. Knowing I was adopted, I couldn’t answer the question. It was then that I promised myself I would find both birth parents meeting them at least once. From that day forward, I had a deep burning desire that never disappeared. At age 25, Daddy handed me an old shoebox full of German primary source adoption documents that had been translated into English: German birth certificates, letters, cards, etc. Reading those documents, I discovered my birth parents’ names and last known location.

I knew the key to finding my birth mother was to find my birth father, Earl, first. Knowing he served in the military, spoke English and German, and returned to the United States, he became my focus. Finding his name and last known address in my adoption papers gave me a solid lead to begin my search. Earl opened the door for my international search and discovery of my birth mother, siblings, and villagers, which ultimately led me back home to the ones I loved as a little girl. Thus began my journey of selfdiscovery and healing. What did you find out when you wrote your book?

We all face challenges throughout our lives. Abandonment affects all of us regardless of race, creed, or color. Adoption is one of many ways abandonment will leave psychological scars. I discovered that one can be abandoned through death, divorce, extended periods of absence from a loved one, the lack of love and affection from a parent or loved one, etc. Discovering that I was not alone but one of 37,000 “Occupied” children born throughout Europe as a product of WWII was comforting to some degree. Although my story is unique, I was not alone, joining the 5,000 biracial babies born in Germany. Six hundred of us, the “Brown Baby Project,” were adopted and brought to America.

My grandmother, Liba Kuschelweich-Claassen, was born in Riga, Latvia, under Polish rule. She was a full Ashkenazi Jew, a

descendant of Noah, who migrated to Frankfurt, Germany, where she married Rudolf Claassen, my German grandfather. Else, my birth mother was their only child. The last memories Else had of her mother were etched in her memory as she witnessed her beloved mother being brutally shoved by Nazi soldiers into a truck full of sobbing Jewish women and stoned-faced Jewish men who were being forcibly transported to a concentration camp. Liba was never heard from again, dying in the Nazi German Concentration Camp before they were liberated.

rejection can also come from any family member you discover. You will experience a few emotional snags, but do not let them deter you from continuing your research. Be prepared by seeking professional counseling as you travel on your journey of discovery. A counselor can talk with you through the touchy emotional times you will experience while answering the question, “Who am I?” Appearance on Spotlight TV with Logan Crawford- YouTube

I discovered Else had six children, including myself: 3 girls & 3 boys. It was rather heartbreaking to find out that Else continued the pattern of abandonment when life became too tough for her to handle. She walked away from it and abandoned her children. Else started a new life in another community. Having given birth to 6 of us, her pattern of abandonment behavior resulted in abandoning 4 of us and raising only two of her children.

April 5, 2024 – Claiming Your Voice Podcast -Interview by Janeice Garrard Janice

Can you share advice for others who want to find their birth parents? The fear of rejection is genuine in those who are searching to connect with their birth parents. Studies warn adoptees that about one percent of mothers who gave up a child for adoption have no desire to reconnect with their birth child. This type of rejection is doubly painful because it becomes the second time the birth mother rejects them. Remember that

Spotlight with Logan Crawford

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READER’S TAKEAWAYS: "Too Brown to Keep: A Search For Love, Forgiveness, and Healing" tackles essential themes of identity, family, forgiveness, and healing. It promises to be an engaging and inspiring read for anyone interested in personal narratives of resilience and selfdiscovery. https://www.amazon.com/TooBrown-Keep-ForgivenessHealing/dp/0578440024 Facebook: JFB. Author / https://www.facebook.com/pro file.php?id=100040894032817 Website: https://www.judyfambro ughbillingsley.com

Chef Sean Billboarding Charting Artist By Jules Lavallee

Chef Sean and Chicago Native has been a force in the music industry in the rap/ hip hop genre with ample amount of accomplishments under his belt, charted Billboard charts at number four for "Hot Single Sales'' summer 2016 for a rap single entitled "Dope Boy", Rolling Loud Tours, national media tours, and the list goes on. Chef Sean is also known as a Trap Rock artist with his rapinfused rock group "Chef Sean & Blaze '' based out of Los Angeles, California. He decided to go solo for his newest ventures and feature rap singles. In his music, you can see elements of his Chicago roots where he first began his music career and learned to produce, song write and rap, but also his love of L.A. and the catalyst of his music career. Chef Sean is also a talented actor that has appeared in Television & film since the age of 12. Some of his credits include; lead in "Jason's Lyric" starring alongside Allen Payne, Forrest Whitaker & Jada Pinkett Smith, "There are No Children Here" (Harpo productions) and "Missing Persons" on ABC. A recent SciFi / Thriller film "Teeth & Blood" Chef Sean starred in, he performed and produced the theme song in the movie as well as additional song placement. You have been a force in the music industry with Billboard Charting Singles, “Hot Single Sales” and “Dope Boy.” What led you to your successful career in music? I just kept pushing songs to the public and building a fan base. I released

videos, put out content, and let people know Chef Sean as a hardworking artist. Tell us about your rapinfused rock group, “Chef Sean & Blaze.” The music was a lot of fun, lots of energy, and everybody loved the mixture of the "Rock and Rap" vibe. However, my Hip Hop singles gained a buzz, so I kept that moving.

What makes you stand out today? “My Individuality” I have my own unique sound. I don’t want to sound like anybody else. Tell us about your acting career and your lead role in “Jason’s Lyric” alongside Allen Payen, Forrest Whitaker, & Jada Pinkett Smith. What intrigued you about the role? The role was challenging and having an opportunity to work with the great method actor like Forest Whitaker was an opportunity of a lifetime. Allen Payne was like a big brother, and he helped the casting agency pick me for the role. Jada was fun, and cool. I learned a lot, and I enjoyed working with them. Hopefully, I can work with them again in the future, as an adult. How did you switch gear for your recent Sci-Fi /Thriller film, “Teeth & Blood?”

That's what acting is all about, switching roles to play someone different. I like Sci-Fi/ Thriller movies anyway, so it was easy to flow into that role. Who would you like to work with in 2024? I like a lot of the artists out there right now like Future and Lil Durk. I'm also in a show coming up with "Benny The Butcher" and the artist "Problem.” I have to say, it's some dope music going on right now. What’s next for you? I’m the music director for the upcoming documentary, “GEORGE DANIELS…THE MUSIC KING.” I have new music for a new album with lots of visuals. I'm starting my tour dates and looking forward to good acting roles, and more shows... Check out my website, and follow me on my social media for new stuff on the way. Instagram: @therealchefse an Twitter: @thechefsean YouTube

Spotify Tik Tok Www.thechefsean.com

Keisha M. Brown, Playwright, Inspirational Speaker, and CEO of K E E M A E nter pris es I ns piring Women Globall y By Jules Lavallee

Keisha M. Brown is a multifaceted advocate, playwright, and inspirational speaker whose life's work is dedicated to empowering others through her experiences as a previvor. Growing up in a home marked by domestic violence, Keisha's early years were fraught with challenges, yet it was from this crucible of adversity that she emerged with a profound sense of purpose. Keisha's journey as an advocate began with her own proactive steps to reduce her risk of developing cancer, a decision born out of a deeply personal understanding of the toll that illness can take on individuals and families. Through her off-Broadway productions, such as "Hear My Cry," a poignant exploration of the plight of HIV/AIDS orphans, Keisha demonstrated her commitment to using art as a tool for social change, with all proceeds directed towards supporting those in need. Her plays, including "Stolen Dreams" and "The Well," further showcased her talent for crafting narratives that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Keisha's first book, "Girl, Get Your Power Back! Do You Wanna Be Healed?" is a testament to her unwavering commitment to empowering individuals to overcome adversity and embrace healing. Drawing from her own journey of self-discovery and resilience, Keisha offers practical insights and inspirational guidance for those seeking to reclaim their power and live their best lives. Could you share the genesis of your journey with us? Certainly. It all began with the discovery of cysts in my breast tissues, prompting me to delve deeper into my family history of breast cancer. With my grandmother's passing from the disease and my mother's survivorship, I decided to undergo genetic testing, which revealed the

presence of the ATM gene, elevating my risk of cancer. This pivotal moment led me to opt for a bilateral double mastectomy, a decision I made after much contemplation but one I do not regret. What inspired you to establish KEEMA Enterprises, and what is its core mission? KEEMA Enterprises was born out of a deep-seated desire to inspire, empower, and facilitate healing for individuals grappling with trauma. At its core lies The Healing Exchange, a platform I created to provide a safe haven for those navigating depression, anxiety, and illness. Through stage productions, books, and journals tailored to resonate with my audience, KEEMA Enterprises endeavors to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and foster a community united by shared experiences. Could you take us through the essence of your debut book, "Girl, Get Your Power Back! Do You Wanna Be Healed?" Absolutely. "Girl, Get Your Power Back! Do You Wanna Be Healed?" delves into my upbringing in a household marred by domestic violence. It explores the emotional impact of growing up in such an environment and sheds light on the scars it leaves behind, offering a raw and unfiltered account of my journey towards healing. What role does journaling play in your healing process, and why is the 31 Days Self-Care Journal significant to KEEMA Enterprises? Journaling has been instrumental in my personal healing journey, serving as a conduit for self-reflection and introspection. The 31 Days SelfCare Journal, endorsed by KEEMA Enterprises, provides individuals with a structured framework for self-discovery, empowering them to

embark on their own path towards inner harmony. Your online platform, "The Healing Exchange," has garnered widespread acclaim. What can visitors expect to find there? "The Healing Exchange" offers a space where real people share real stories, fostering a sense of community and solidarity among individuals grappling with past traumas. It serves as a platform for open dialogue and authentic expression, transcending the barriers of isolation and stigma. Could you share insights into your work as a playwright and the themes you explore through your stage productions? Certainly. As a playwright, I've had the privilege of crafting narratives that shed light on various aspects of the human experience. From "Hear My Cry," which delves into the lives of HIV/AIDS orphans, to "Stolen Dreams, The Well," a poignant exploration of domestic violence, my stage productions endeavor to provoke thought and evoke empathy through storytelling. What projects are you currently working on, and what are your aspirations for the future of KEEMA Enterprises? Presently, I'm focused on promoting "Facing the Unknown" and my latest endeavor, "I’m Coming Out of This," a stage play dedicated to domestic violence survivors. My goal is to forge partnerships with organizations to secure funding for these projects, thereby expanding the reach and impact of KEEMA Enterprises in the realm of healing and empowerment. www.keemaenterprises.com

Luz Maria Utrera, Actress, Model, and Domestic Violence Advocate Receives Global Recognition By Jules Lavallee

Luz was born and raised in Argentina. She trained at the Lee Strasberg Institute, and has been featured on film and TV projects both in Argentina and the U.S. In addition to speaking fluent Spanish and English, Luz speaks basic Chinese and has knowledge of French and Italian. She is currently a New York based actress, model, and a proud US citizen.

Luz Maria’s passion for acting started early in life. In high school she was given the option to take a computer class or a theater class naturally, she chose theater. Luz started modeling as a kid, as her mother owned a children's clothing store. At seventeen, she starred in her first car commercial and won the Beauty Queen title at Miss Modelo pageant in her city of Santiago del Estero. Later that year Luz Maria moved to Buenos Aires where she obtained her law degree. While in law school, she continued modeling. It had to be kept secret from her conservative family of lawyers, who didn't particularly want her in a creative field. Upon completing her law degree, she decided to move to Los Angeles to follow her dream of acting. In 2009 Luz was selected a judge for "Cinema City International Film Festival". While following her dreams and studying acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, she became a victim of domestic violence. This experience changed her life and started a new professional chapter for Luz. As a way to cope with her trauma, she volunteered with a number of nonprofit organizations that address domestic violence issues. Luz's desire to make an impact goes way beyond the creative arts. In 2012 her foundation "Fundación Luz María" was launched in Argentina in order to help women who have experienced domestic violence. She could have never imagined that this work would take her all the way to the United Nations. In 2015 The Foundation in Argentina received a Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social

Council (ECOSOC). Additionally, in 2015, the Department of Public Information (DPI) associated the Foundation as a partner organization in the area of communications and outreach. In 2015 she registered the Luz María Foundation in New York as a 501(c)(3) and continued her work on a global scale.

The Foundation also received the Department of Public Information Association (DPI) and is a partner of the SDG Action Campaign my world survey. You can learn more here: luzmariautrera.com

Luz was recently chosen from 5,000 applicants from around the world to serve as a UN Women Champion for Change. Fundación Luz Maria is also an official partner of the Sustainable Development Goals Action Campaign My World Survey.

I travel the world speaking on behalf of women and the UN sustainable development goals.

In 2019 Luz Maria became an American citizen, she traveled the world with the UN as an international observer speaking on behalf of women and UN Sustainable Development Goals. The fact that her purpose-driven work had a real impact on the lives of thousands of domestic violence survivors was a dream come true. Finding fulfillment in her work led Luz to unlocking her passion for acting again. Since 2019 Luz Maria has participated in a number of productions where she worked alongside top leading actors, directors and producers like Russell Crowe, Nicole Kidman, Hugh Grant, Winona Ryder, Sarah Jessica Parker, Cate Blanchett, Jared Leto, and Steven Spielberg just to name a few. Before the theatre shutdown in 2020, she played a leading part as a court interpreter in "A Matter of Interpretation" at the Secret Theatre in New York, and in January 2021 she did a commercial shoot for L’Oréal. It was a long personal and professional journey for Luz María, and she is happy to finally live her truth and believe that everything is possible. Tell us about your important work with the UN and the Fundacion Luz Maria. Throughout the years, the Foundation has received help from donors, sponsors, and government grants. Fundación Luz Maria received Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). ©Red Silk Carpet April 2024- All Rights Reserved

What strides have you made on a global scale?

You were a United Nations keynote speaker, Masters Club International, Birmingham, UK. What was your topic? Yes, my topic was empowering the community during hardship. I could also speak regarding the pandemic that we faced and the 2 wars that are going on. Tell us about your acting and commercial projects.

Yes, I will go back to acting in 2019. I was doing my professional headshot in Oct 2019, and I was in a theater play back then, after that I did the Loreal commercial print ad, and other commercials, along with 2 independent movies. Lately, I have been in Argentina, and I did an optics commercial, a musical and also a theater workshop, with samples of living paintings within the framework of the Brides Expo on museum day. San Francisco church 2023. Santiago del Estero, Argentina. Right now, I'm enjoying more life and I'm looking to do meaningful projects in the future. I don't want to keep doing what I was doing in the old world. We are living in the digital one. What do you look for in a role? Who would like to work with? I would love to do a drama movie and many more and of course work with great actors. I look for a role that pushes me to be a better actor. I studied at Lee Strasberg and also, I was in the evening division at Juliard school.

What’s next for you? Keep going on this path while I'm enjoying more life, family, and friends. Since everything has become online, I can be anywhere. @luzmariafoundation instagram luzmariautrera.com website. https://www.facebook.com/luz.m.utrera/

Erla Brizeus-Pierre, Owner of KEWW Primary Care: Making an Impact on Community’s Well-Being By Jules Lavallee

Erla Brizeus-Pierre is a devoted healthcare professional dedicated to serving communities in need. After volunteering in medical missions to Haiti, witnessing healthcare challenges firsthand, she pursued further education to address these issues. Despite the challenges, she opened a clinic, showcasing her determination and dedication in establishing a healthcare facility aimed at making a lasting impact on the community’s well-being. Erla’s personal weight management journey resulted in shedding 75 pounds, reflecting her dedication to health. With over 23 years of experience as a Family Nurse Practitioner, she owns and operates KEWW primary, contributing to Palm Beach County’s healthcare and staying engaged through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Erla’s dual expertise exemplifies a compassionate and comprehensive approach to community wellness. What led you to medicine? My passion for medicine started when I began volunteering. I often traveled to Haiti with my church for medical missions. In 2012, after the devastating Haiti earthquake, I realized I needed to do more to help. As a Haitian myself, seeing so many sick people, many with dangerously high blood pressure was unsettling. At that time, I was a registered nurse, and my ability to help extensively was limited. I could only talk to patients and provide them with whatever money I had with me. I knew I had to do more, so I decided to go back to school to become a nurse practitioner. Tell us about volunteering in medical missions to Haiti. Volunteering in Haiti was incredible. Despite being from Haiti, there were still many places I did not have the opportunity to visit on the land. I enjoyed going to different parts of my homeland to pay it forward. The medical mission allowed me to touch the lives of many people in Haiti who needed help. To this day,

I still read many heartbreaking stories about Haiti and the needs of the people. On My last mission, we visited Artibonite; it was a wonderful trip. The people of Haiti looked forward to our mission trip. We set up clinics at local churches to render the essential services that we often take for granted, being from a developed country. Services like blood pressure checks, blood sugar monitoring, and educating people about health conditions that could turn chronic without the proper care. You are a Nurse Practitioner and Owner of KEWW Primary Care. What makes it stand out? I really believe that the way I treat patients has a direct correlation to their health outcomes. Believe it or not, I remember everyone’s name. I treat my patients to prevent diseases and sickness. I Spend quality time with my patients and listen carefully to their histories. My patients don’t sit and wait for me for hours. As soon as they arrive, I see them immediately. Your personal weight management journey resulted in shedding 75 pounds. How are you helping others today?

I empathize with my patients and understand their struggles with weight loss. In fact, I faced the same issue and weighed 230 pounds myself many years ago. However, it wasn't until I saw a picture of myself standing next to my husband that I realized the need to take care of my weight for the sake of my health. At our clinic, we guide people through the weight loss process, but we understand that it's a personal decision, and we support them every step of the way. We believe that losing weight requires a change in behavior and there's no one-sizefits-all plan. Therefore, we tailor a plan that is specific to each patient. As someone who has gone through the journey myself, I treat my patients holistically and provide them with the necessary support to achieve their goals in the long

term. What would people be surprised to know about you?

I truly enjoy cooking, but despite my busy schedule, I try to cook for my family at least three times a week. My favorite dish to make is Legumes. It is a vegetable mix, and the family enjoys it. I put just the right amount of love each time I make it, What are some of the top health challenges patients are facing, and how is KEWW Primary Care making a lasting impact? We have many health challenges as a nation. Topping the list: Cancer? It looks like Cancer has been knocking on everyone’s door. We also have Diabetes, hypertension, and mental issues. At Keww Primary Care, we know that patient education, finding, and helping patients get the resources they need are key. But most of all, we believe in a formula of preventative medicine. We don’t want to just treat illnesses; our care is routed in prevention. I believe we can make a lasting impact.

How has working in the healthcare profession inspired you? Working in the healthcare field has motivated me to lead a fulfilling life, give back to society, and never take anything for granted. I have come to realize how closely life and death are intertwined and how helpless we can sometimes feel in the face of illness and disease. This has made me appreciate life even more and given me a strong desire to continue helping others live their lives to the fullest. Helping others lead healthy and fulfilling lives inspires me to continue to do what we do at KEWW Primary Care. We cannot help everyone, but those who want us to help them, we will continue to do so as long as God allows. www.kewwprimarycare.com

Notable Atlanta Photographer, AJ Allan Sylvester Celebrates Beauty and Diversity of Life Through Photography By Jules Lavallee

"The Shooter - AJ Allan Sylvester

“Photography, for me, is not just a profession; it's a way of life. From the soft glow of dawn to the captivating colors of sunset, I find inspiration in the play of light and shadows that dance across the landscapes and faces I photograph. Whether I'm in the bustling streets of a city or the serene embrace of nature, each setting presents a unique canvas on which to create my visual stories.”

vision into images that transcend mere pixels and ink.

My approach to photography is to establish a genuine connection with my subjects, enabling them to feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera. I believe that true beauty lies in authenticity, and I strive to capture the essence of individuals and the emotions they hold dear. Every photoshoot is an adventure, a journey of discovery. With every click, I seek to unravel the narratives that lie beneath the surface, revealing the untold stories of those I photograph. My goal is to create images that not only impress the eye but also touch the heart, leaving a lasting impact on those who view them.

You are one of the most sought-after photographers and videographers in Atlanta, GA. When did you discover your passion for photography?

Whether I'm photographing a wedding, a family gathering, a fashion shoot, or a breathtaking landscape, my commitment to excellence and passion for my craft remain unwavering. Each project is a fresh opportunity to push the boundaries of my creativity and to translate my

Join me on this photographic voyage, where moments become memories, and images come to life, telling the stories that define us and the world we inhabit. Together, let's embark on a visual journey that celebrates the beauty and diversity of life through the magic of photography.

My passion in the media world ignited as a child, playing around with my father’s camcorder. As a kid, I was fascinated with video recordings and making short videos to create skits with my siblings. We'd create all types of content from music videos to short storylines, and fake news reports. (Lol)

You can say that I had it within me to be a Media Director from way back then. During my teenage years, I experimented with different types of photo and video creation styles. From smaller handheld camcorders to incorporating Polaroid cameras and then older Gen 1 Android cameras. “Photography for me is not just a profession; it’s a way of life.”

Explain: Photography and videography for me is more than a profession. It's a passion, a lifestyle. They say if you love what you do, then you won't spend a day in your life working. Ever. This is what I believe, so because of that, it’s been easy to not feel unmotivated when it comes to the creative aspect of my work. What is your approach to photography when working with clients? Generally, my first level of approach when it comes to working with my clients is understanding their vision. "What are they trying to accomplish and how can I allow them to reach these goals"? Once I can fully grasp their ideas, then it becomes instantaneously evident on how to bring their vision to life. Once we begin aligning on one accord creatively, we then can move to the next stages of building their media from the ground up. Then afterwards, I am able to deliver an awardwinning project for their business. Atlanta, GA 4KDrone footage: https://youtu.be/av28DF4ktTc ?si=6TewHKU7rVKacIMl

Tell us about working with Cardinal Mays Advisors & Associates on their event.

Associates eventhttps://ajsylvester.design/videograp hy-work

Working with Cardinal Mays was an exciting time with great and high energy folks. When the founders Chris, Lamond, and Charisse reached out to me for the event, they explained exactly what they wanted for their grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony.

What will people notice when working with you?

They wanted to showcase their event as an exciting moment which would make other companies see the highend value that their team specialized in. The Cardinal Mays Advisors and Associates team runs a financial firm which specializes in financial planning and investments. Being a high-end company that they are, I grasped that they needed the best visuals possible to showcase for their luxurious clients. Their event turned out successful as they had all types of people in different professions in attendance, including the mayor of Atlanta himself! Cardinal Mays Advisors and

When people work with me at Syllo Media and Studios, they will quickly notice and understand the high professionalism here. I strive in doing the best to make my clients feel understood and comfortable, as well as highly satisfied with their vision coming true. Tell us about your prints and your merchandise. Syllomedia.com is my prints website where customers can browse a wide selection of landscape and cityscape pictures to purchase. Each print has been professionally shot, edited, and uploaded with the options to order on different textures types and print material. These print textures include metal, canvas, acrylic, framed, and triptych. Most importantly, clients also have the option to upload their own pictures up on the website to create

their own custom prints for purchasing. They can upload any high-resolution image and then choose their canvas size. Once they place their order, I will have the prints created and then shipped to their location of choice. Each print is carefully and professionally packed and created with brand labeled on the package. How would you like to expand your portfolio this year? 2024 is the year of growth for me. I would love to work more in the entertainment, corporate and sports divisions to collaborate and work with like minded companies and individuals. I love working large and or small professional events to capture everything in the room and showcase it to all individuals around. My socials are as follows: Instagram: @nu_jeru Facebook: @Syllomedia LinkedIn: @Syllomedia TikTok: @Syllomedia YouTube: @Syllomedia or AJ Sylvester www.syllomedia.com

How have you pushed the boundaries of your creativity? When I began learning how to master tools such as Adobe Photoshop and incorporating Aerial Drones into my work is when I surpassed my normal limits with a client. Drone operation greatly has helped with lending large clients and bigger projects. It allows us to get different perspectives of Media captures which can be difficult to get on the ground with a regular camera at times. One example is doing a big London travel Project to where I needed to capture aerial footage of the London Bridge personally. You can see an image of the capture for the bridge here.

World-Renowned Artist,

Ann Golumbuk

Shares New Collection By Jules Lavallee

Ann was born in Enid, Oklahoma, and was educated at the University of Oklahoma, where she graduated with a degree in Interior Design. She moved to San Diego in 1984, where she lives today with her husband, with whom she has three adult children. While her artistic impression was constant throughout her life, Ann’s foray into the art world was primarily developed while working as a volunteer art teacher for the San Diego public school system. Over the years, Ann has honed these skills in the development of her own style, and currently teaches intermediate and advanced art classes on her painting methods and theory. Ann also represents fellow artists and is involved in the promotion and distribution of their art on a national level. Today, Ann is a full-time career artist, with pieces showing in domestic galleries and exhibits across the United States, as well as in shows in Mexico and Spain. Her style is influenced by the bright colors of nature, which she incorporates into her paintings using a vibrant library of paints, brushes, stencils, nail sets, and any other tools she finds along the way. She creates a layered history in every piece, bringing the energy of the world into her work. In her commitment to sustainability, Ann also incorporates recycled materials such as metal, cardboard, and shredded canvas, and aims to use every drop of paint to add dimension to the stories that lay beneath the layers. Your artistic expression has been constant throughout your life. Share your background. My foray into the art world was primarily developed while working as a volunteer art teacher for the San Diego public school system in

which my children were enrolled. In the following years, I extended this volunteer position to Monarch School, Just in Time for Foster Youth program, and the Ronald McDonald House, eventually developing my own art style and teaching these accumulated methods and theories in intermediate and advanced art classes at Art on 30th in North Park. Today, I am a full-time career artist with pieces showing in art exhibits across the United States, Mexico, and Spain. I also represent fellow artists in the promotion and distribution of their art on a national level through Leftbank Art. Tell us about “Dangerously Abstract.” “Dangerously Abstract” pieces are bold, powerful, and energetic. In my work, I like to push the boundaries between the pretty and the gritty, telling my stories with an abstract visual language all its own. In this collection, I express my passion for the raw, imperfect world, share my perspective, and give life to my experiences. With big bold brushstrokes, a vibrant color palette, handwritten words, expressions, and gestural writing, I create a landscape of chaos, movement, and energy that is woven into a tapestry of delight. My style is intuitive in nature and combines layers of acrylic paint, paper collage, spray paint, markers, and a variety of materials found in my daily activities to express that intuition. Each piece is created by throwing, mopping, pouring, spraying, and scraping the paint, reworking the pieces until they tell my stories and express my passion for life. Take us through your new collections. Where will you be exhibiting in the upcoming months?

I think most people that know me would say I have a spicy personality but a very kind heart. In my new body of work, I am exploring my own nature and the nature of society, its vocabulary, and its expressions. This new collection is salty, lighthearted, fun, and expressive. In my series of “Badass Sticks,” you will find titles like “Sex, Hot Love, Rock and Roll,” “Badass,” “Do Epic Shit,” “I am Women,” “Let’s Get Lit,” and “But Did You Die.” Other pieces in my new collection walk the line between the pretty and gritty nature of life; they show the raw, imperfect world in our streets but shine a light on hope and love! These new pieces will be showing this month at ArtWalk San Diego (Little Italy, April 27 and 28) and then at the studio and gallery that I co-founded (F1VEart Studio and Gallery in Liberty Station) through the end of May. Sustainability is important in your work. How do you incorporate recycled materials into your paintings? An increased focus on sustainability becomes more vital to our world every day, and incorporating found items into my art gives it the gritty street look that makes it come to life. Weaving paper, cardboard, loose canvas and more into my pieces creates a layered history, a look of old and new, and a deep, rich “push and pull” dichotomy that makes each piece unique. From time to time, I like to drive through an alley or two to see what I can find. On one occasion, I found the perfect item: a mannequin. Her name is “Grace, Guardian of The Golden Rule,” and you can find her on my website under Off the Canvas Collection.

Ann Golumbuk- From the Inside Out

You are an inspiration to many. Tell us about art classes. Teaching my style of art to students is one of the highlights of my career. I love teaching the basics to beginners, but my true passion lies in teaching my big, bold painting style to more advanced students. In my class “Big, Bold Paint Throwdown,” I teach students and clients how to go big, specifically how to embrace the freedom of painting on a large canvas. I encourage them to paint with their entire body.

By using large paintbrushes, mops, rags, and other oversized, unconventional items to apply the paint, they can let loose and feel the power of their art. My classes are expressive, energetic, and full of spontaneity. I also do private classes for clients that want to paint but feel that they don’t know how or where to begin. I invite them into my studio for a paint throwdown session: once we’re finished, they have a new piece of art to take home and maybe even a stronger desire to continue painting and learning. Teaching is a wonderful, very rewarding

part of my art career. What’s next for you in 2024? The next few months of 2024 are a bit slower, but by the end of June, I will be back at it as I travel to my studio in Cape Cod for the summer. While I’m there, I will be working on my next series of paintings for LeftBank Art in La Mirada, and in November, I will be showing at Art San Diego and F1VEart Gallery. Once those shows have concluded, my focus will be on my solo show happening here in San Diego. anngolumbuk.com

Revered Worldwide, Ann D’Silva Author, Poet, Social Change Activist Shares Inspiring Journey By Jules Lavallee

Ann D’Silva is an Indian writer who hails from Mumbai, she spent over two decades in the corporate world in senior management roles across the globe, before she chose to give up defined routine and pursue her calling as a writer. She is a humanitarian, passionate about subjects swept under the carpet, a social impact champion and a thought change advocate. She is a recognized speaker on the power of storytelling, women’s role in the 21st century, cultural inclusion, diversity, and women empowerment. Her niche is that she only writes women-oriented stories and stands with risen phoenixes in their victory over darkness. Her love for diversity is why she chooses different countries to develop the premise for each story, based on its ethos, language, culture, and history, to give her audience an opportunity to understand the struggle of women in different parts of the world and to journey with these characters. Her books have strong global messages impacting women, to start a dialogue to factor change. Ann relocated to Turkey in 2019 and now lives in İstanbul. When did you discover your calling as a writer? I have loved writing since childhood, my maternal grandfather Patrick Michael was a journalist and was my inspiration and the reason for my attraction to books and the mystical and magical connection between thoughts and its expression through words. I always kept a journal and they have helped me a lot to understand myself and the subjects I feel strongly about. I guess you could say I realized my calling was writing when I understood the impact of words on people in my 20s and the responsibility of a writer. A writer can create a world out of nothing, give direction, even change perception and the

opposite is also true. To call writing or being a writer, a calling is understanding that responsibility and owning up for the choices one makes as a writer. I’m a literature major from Delhi University and then studied Business Administration and Marketing and PR from Mumbai University. I was born in Delhi and relocated to Mumbai where I worked in the corporate world for 20-plus years in senior management positions, across industries. You are passionate about subjects swept under the carpet. What inspires you?

“The Universe is always speaking to us. It’s about understanding the messages and following them. If I had not listened to myself, my true dream and personal journey would not have happened. Moving to Turkey was the most courageous, riskiest, and rewarding thing I have done. Beyond fear is where the magic lies.”

I am greatly intrigued by fate, human resilience, the struggle between logic and emotion when trapped in situations that affect the fabric of one’s consciousness and soul either positively or negatively and the effect of environments on people. I am deeply moved by the conditions in societies where the voiceless remain voiceless till someone commits to keep speaking up for them till, then they are go unseen and unheard and importantly as a woman I want to acknowledge, encourage, collaborate, support and stand together with risen phoenixes to share their truths unapologetically, to make a point that sweeping issues under the carpet don’t make them miraculously disappear.

Stories on domestic abuse, marital rape, adoption, abortion, human trafficking of the girl child, prostitution, and displaced people are very important to me. These subjects are very close to my heart, as I have worked with NGOs in India and internationally and yearly numbers grow exponentially but it’s not a subject people feel comfortable to speak about. At times it appears like the world is divided into two sections; the seen and relevant and on the other side the violated, oppressed, voiceless who exist yet matter not. Justifications constantly change as per convenience and the numbers across the world are on an alarming rise. It’s a scary visualization of what seems to be a picture of probable future in the next 50 years if we don't of course correct it today. Visualize a nucleus as a flourishing small green patch of land for the privileged in the centre and outside it is a world desolate, broken, starving, affected by climatic crisis, war razed lands, where majority of the rest of the world will end up with the unprivileged forced at mercy of the privileged for food, water, land, rights, opportunities, etc. An era of imbalance, human rights injustices, economic dependency, and escalated numbers of human slavery will dawn upon us if we don’t stand united to choose better leaders and stand for and with each other as humanity. Thought change will lead to awareness and right actions for the benefit of all, concerning prevalent taboos, stigmas, psychological and physical violence against women and children who are often the worst affected in these situations. We sadly live in a masked world, where words don’t match actions and women's inclusion and dignity, is still a feeble voice in many parts across the globe.

Impacting Lives with Ann D’Silva www.youtube.com/@ImpactingLiv eswithAnnDSilva Tell us about Sand and Sea, Book 1 - Footprints in the Sand. Footprints in the Sand is the first book of the trilogy, it highlights the deep connection between the seen and unseen, creator, creation, soul, and body. It’s a journey of two soul mates through time and space to reunite in their present circle of life. Nature is central in the trilogy as nature is a nourisher to all without distinction and the Sand and Sea eternal inseparable lovers playing the role of guardians to mankind since the beginning of time, as they cannot be parted. I use love as a baseline to explain that is the only truth, as love alone was the reason light and life came into existence and it alone repairs and restores.

and Sea Trilogy, Footprints in the Sand being Part 1, it touches on the tragic story of the 5 million displaced Syrian refugees who were taken in by Türkiye. The trilogy is about two countries India and Türkiye and goes back and forth. Each book in the trilogy addresses a social issue of concern and is woven together as a unit. Book 2 is about displacement, its psychological wounds and loss of livelihood, loved ones, one’s roots and touches hopefully upon the rehabilitation of these displaced people. I am deeply touched by the loss of legacy, heritage, roots, and love that displaced people face, like unwanted people looked upon as the unwanted guests. A horrible truth of our times and a reality we have to deal with to save these lives and their talent from being wasted away. Share a few takeaways from your series.

The selfless love of nature despite our constant abuse of her, she provides daily and should the waters ever dry up life itself would cease. This book also touches upon spirit connections and their inexplainable mysteries, through the life of a divorced woman who believed she could write a different ending to her broken story. There is philosophy, spirituality, the importance of Nature and our need to respect their unimaginable force of energy and femininity being the human representation of mother nature and last but not the least gender harmony as femininity and masculinity are inseparable unit for life to thrive and each should unapologetically embrace their essence without the need to be defined or type cast by societies and external opinion.

“If humanity does not course correct its actions, nature will do it for us as a mother does for the betterment of her child.”

What was your inspiration for Child of Two Worlds?

Are you working on a new book?

Child of two worlds is the continuation, part two of the Sand

I am presently working on the third and final book of my trilogy called

“People don't believe in the unseen anymore, Only things they can see for sure, They say love and soulmates exist no more, Yet, breathe an unseen air, to live for sure.” “Hold onto your miracle, It's just a spark right now, Guard it from the wind that blows, Ignore the tongues that wag and the clock that drags so slow, Day you day the spark to a flame will grow, On a day unexpected, the miracle in life will show”.

“Kun Faya Kun” which is Arabic for “Be and It is.” You are a recognized speaker globally. What topics do you cover? Can you share upcoming speaking engagements?

I have been a speaker on the list of subjects from the power of storytelling, women’s role in the 21st century, cultural inclusion, diversity, leadership principles needed in times of conflict, how to become an author and women empowerment. My niche is that I only write women-oriented stories and stand with risen phoenixes in their victory over darkness. Diversity is humanity which is why I choose different countries to develop the premise for each story, based on its ethos, language, culture, and history, to give her audience an opportunity to understand the struggle of women in different parts of the world and to journey with these characters. 2023 October was Horasis in Gaziantep, Türkiye chairing the panel on reconstructing hope. This year I have a few university lectures and a few women forums to speak on women in cinema and women for women, why is that so important in 2024.

Tell us about your current projects for 2024. As an International Representative with Warner Bros. Discovery in 2024, I am looking forward to working with many companies to bring to the world their contribution from SDG, sports and CSR and work with governments to tell locals stories of legacy and heritage, as each land has its own unique stories that is both inspiring and work experiencing.

My book is pegged to become a film or series, fingers crossed for 2024. http://www.anndsilva.com

Good reads Reviews links

Links of some of my interviews

https://www.amazon.com/SandSea-Footprints-AnndSilva/dp/1684665779/?_encoding =UTF8&pd_rd_w=kOrfg&contentid=amzn1.sym.cf86ec3a-68a6-43e9811504171136930a&pf_rd_p=cf86ec3a68a6-43e9-811504171136930a&pf_rd_r=14224849970814251&pd_rd_wg=FXaVS&pd_rd _r=baf47c25-7512-4681-907e06c573a7301f&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk

https://www.globalindian.com/story /global-indian-exclusive/ann-dsilvathe-indian-writer/ https://voiceasianews.com/empowe ring-women-through-the-power-ofstorytelling-ann-dsilvas-journey/ https://theciomedia.com/ann-dsilvaa-trailblazing-force-for-change/

https://www.amazon.com/VersesRisen-Phoenix-Ann-DSilvaebook/dp/B09CLM94W5

https://www.amazon.com/SANDSEA-CHILD-TWOWORLDS/dp/1637814348/?_encod ing=UTF8&pd_rd_w=fFN8n&cont ent-id=amzn1.sym.cf86ec3a-68a643e9-811504171136930a&pf_rd_p=cf86ec3a68a6-43e9-811504171136930a&pf_rd_r=14224849970814251&pd_rd_wg=LZaGq&pd_r d_r=156877ab-584f-4107-81c4cf1db44b5564&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_ds k https://www.goodreads.com/book/ show/43658486-sand-sea

Michelle Hillery,

Film Commissioner for The Palm Beaches Shares The Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films (SSOF)

Michelle Hillery began her career with the Palm Beach County Film and Television Commission (FTC) in 1997 and is the current Film Commissioner for The Palm Beaches. Hillery facilitates the Film. Commission’s many ambitious programs under contract with Palm Beach County that actively contribute to tourism through film and television production. She is responsible for driving the operations, production, marketing, and education departments of the organization. Programs under her supervision include generating a positive impact on business tourism and the economy through the growth of commercial production and expanding the portfolio of branded content for The Palm Beaches TV, Palm Beach County’s official tourism TV channel. Hillery is also responsible for the oversight of an annual contract with Department of Housing and Economic Development and programs relating to education including The Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films, Florida’s largest statewide film competition and award show of which she is the Executive Producer. The Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films (SSOF) is the largest statewide film competition and award show for Florida student filmmakers, graphic designers, and digital media artists. Operating for nearly three decades the juried competition recognizes outstanding high school and college students by presenting more than $28,000 in scholarships and awards in the following categories: College & High School Feature/Shorts, Documentary, Music Video, Animation, Environmental PSA, Commercial PSA, Screenwriting, Poster Design and new for 2024,

Palm Beach County Tourism PSA and Teacher Appreciation. As a tribute to the legacy of film legend Burt Reynolds, the SSOF will present to a Palm Beach County high school senior, The Burt Reynolds Scholarship Award, a $5,000 cash prize. Mr. Reynolds was a Palm Beach County icon, longtime supporter, and frequent presenter at the SSOF. Runners-up in this selection process will have a chance to win one of three prizes: The $1,000 Sara Fuller Scholarship, $1,000 Mel Maron Scholarship, and new this year, $1,000 Gray Family Scholarship, and the $1000 Dr. B. Carleton Bryant Scholarship. The Palm Beaches is a filmmaker's paradise. Tell us about the film production and the resources offered. Palm Beach County, Florida is a world-class production destination for content creators. We welcomed roughly 500 productions to The Palm Beaches in 2023 and tracked a record-breaking $247M in production spend. In addition to beautiful backdrops, our entertainment production industry is bolstered by more than 160 production-related companies that call The Palm Beaches home. Our local infrastructure includes 19 studios and soundstages that can accommodate any size production. In fact, G-Star Studios features a 10,000 sq. foot soundstage that is a replica of the Warner Bros. sound stage with some advanced technological improvements. There are also several insert stages, recording studios and facilities that offer LED video walls powered by Unreal Engine technology. The Palm Beaches is also home to more than a dozen film festivals, showcasing talent, connecting industry professionals, and celebrating cinema. Meanwhile, our office ensures that

production crews from all around the world are met with a seamless production experience -whether through our hassle-free, one-stop permitting process or customized location packages, we help teams navigate the local landscape. We also connect visiting crews with local production professionals and provide additional productionrelated resources to help support their projects. Currently, there’s a Job Growth Incentive Grant Program available for production companies that are considering relocating to or establishing a facility in Palm Beach County. There’s also a Florida Entertainment Sales Tax Exemption that saves productions up to 7.5% on qualified expenditures such as rented or purchased equipment, studio or office rentals, location fees, and much more. The FTC also collaborates closely with Film Florida, a not-for-profit entertainment production trade association representing all facets of Florida's film, television, and digital media industry, including film commissions, industry professionals, and labor groups. Together in leadership, the FTC and Film Florida enhance outreach efforts, advocate for the state, and provide vital resources to support filmmakers, solidifying Florida's position as a premier production hub. Please share the county's diversity and what is so appealing for filmmakers. Filmmakers are naturally drawn to Palm Beach County’s unparalleled diversity and its stunning sceneries. With perfect year-round weather, 47-miles of pristine coastline to the east and sprawling everglades to the west,

The Palm Beaches offers the largest and possibly most diverse canvas for creative expression. For example, Lincoln Navigator recently shot a commercial featuring Serena Williams along our beaches while the Zac Brown Band shot segments of their “Same Boat” music video in our western communities along Lake Okeechobee. And Kikori Whiskey, produced in Japan, shot a brand campaign at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. There’s also Lion Country Safari. This top attraction, featuring 600 acres of natural area that’s home to nearly 1,000 animals, is film friendly and perfect for productions looking to capture a Sub-Saharan look filled with majestic wildlife. If looking to do a pre-1940s period piece, The Palm Beaches is home to Yesteryear Village, a 10-acre history park with early 1900s buildings including a school, post office, general store, and blacksmith shop. Ultimately, whatever look your project needs, The Palm Beaches can deliver.

As a film office, we’re also very diverse – and unique – in what we do. In addition to marketing the County and servicing the production industry, the Palm Beach County Film and Television Commission (FTC) manages the County’s official tourism TV channel, The Palm Beaches TV. While the channel offers more than 90 hours of familyfriendly programming to support tourism efforts, it also serves as a source of location inspiration for filmmakers delivered through the lens of lively storytelling. The 29th Annual Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films was held on Friday, April 26th. Tell us about the event. Yes, we had a spectacular show! As Florida’s largest student film competition and awards show, The Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films (SSOF) is the FTC’s signature educational outreach initiative and a longstanding, legacy-building event. This year, we were thrilled to receive a record-breaking 529 eligible submissions from 93 schools across the state!

Our esteemed judging panel of 47 industry experts from around the world had a tough assignment choosing the finalists, but they took on the challenge to select 34 finalists including winners in 16 categories. This year’s theme was AI and let me tell you – the energy was electric! The finalists, along with their families, friends, teachers, cast, and crew were celebrated in front of a live audience of over 700 people at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre in Jupiter, Florida. The audience experienced firsthand the outstanding level of talent found in our Florida high schools and colleges. Celebrity presenters included hip-hop artist, actor, and television host, Vanilla Ice; local actor, writer, and director Jevon White, and news anchor Matt Lincoln from WPEC CBS 12. Frank Licari, Emmynominated host and award-winning entertainer, producer, writer, musician, actor, and star of South Florida PBS’ On the Town in The Palm Beaches with Frank Licari hosted the live show. Kitty Lundan, star of What’s Poppin, PBC? awed the crowd with a surprise flash mob dance performance before presenting the awards for High School Feature/Short. A special video message was also shared from Access Hollywood’s Mario Lopez. Palm Beach County Commissioner Gregg Weiss, who leads the Artificial Intelligence Exploratory Committee for the National Association of Counties, shared his insights on the power of AI. As a tribute to the legacy of film legend Burt Reynolds, who was a Palm Beach County icon and longtime community arts supporter, the SSOF continues to present The Burt Reynolds Scholarship Award – a $5,000 cash prize, to a Palm Beach County high school senior annually. This year, we added a new category called Palm Beach County Tourism PSA. Entries were judged based on how each PSA highlighted the hotels, dining, shopping, world-class sporting events and inspiring cultural attractions in Palm Beach County. The category provided an opportunity for students to create a ©Red Silk Carpet April 2024- All Rights Reserved

marketing campaign for America’s First Resort Destination while reminding viewers that The Palm Beaches welcome everyone. To date over the past 29 years, the SSOF has awarded over $4.5 million dollars toward the program in cash, prizes, scholarships, equipment, and in-kind services during its lifetime. The SSOF is funded by the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners through the Department of Housing & Economic Development. Major sponsors include the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, Palm Beach County Tourist Development Council, and Palm Beach County Film and Television Commission. Award sponsors for the 2024 competition include Suzanne Niedland (Suzanne Niedland Documentary Scholarship), Keep Palm Beach County Beautiful, Inc. (Environmental PSA Award), Discover The Palm Beaches (Palm Beach County Tourism PSA), Laurence Gartel (Poster Design), Film Florida (Sara Fuller Scholarship), family and friends of Mel Maron (Mel Maron Scholarship), The Gray Family (Gray Family Scholarship), Carla Bryant (Dr. B. Carleton Bryant Scholarship), Michael Chasin (Nellie & Fred Chasin Screenwriting Award) and new this year, Five Peaks Animation (Animation Award). You are the Executive Producer for the Student Showcase of Films. What stood out to you the most among the student films this year? The SSOF is an unparalleled film competition that brings the brightest talents among Florida's emerging student filmmakers, directors, producers, writers, graphic designers, and digital media artists into the spotlight on center stage. All of this year’s student entries really raised the bar, but I was particularly impressed by the level of imagination and ingenuity displayed by all of the finalists. Each film and every project brought something unique to the table, leading with originality and creativity, leaving a lasting impact on the judges.

This is all possible because Florida has some of the top film programs in the country with institutions like Florida State University and Ringling College of Art and Design. We also have some top-notch programs for highschool students with several schools offering magnet, charter and choice programs geared towards film, television, and broadcasting. In fact, G-Star Studios, which houses one of the state’s largest soundstages, is home to G-Star High School of the Arts, one of the largest film, 3D animation and acting schools in the nation. And because of that special soundstage at G-Star, students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while working on multimillion-dollar projects. Of course, we understand that teachers are at the core of our students’ success, which is why this year we introduced the inaugural Teacher of the Year award.

What does it take to have a successful film for students who would like to participate next year? With more categories than ever, the SSOF provides an opportunity for every type of student in the film, TV, multimedia, and art worlds – including screenwriters, animators, and graphic designers. But when it comes to the specific film categories, storytelling is always paramount. Whether it's a short film, a documentary, a music video, or a PSA, pushing the boundaries of film to engage the audience in your story is key. Each category is judged on its own set of criteria, but fundamentals include production design, character acting, editing, musical score, cinematography, lighting, and special effects. A successful combination of these essential elements brings together an artistic vision and drives a narrative. For more information and resources for next year's showcase, we invite students and teachers to visit pbfilm.com/SSOF. The submission window for next year’s competition opens in October 2024!

Is the Palm Beach Film and Television Commission setting the stage for some of the best filmmakers of our time?

Absolutely! Karla Caviedes, a student from G-Star School of the Arts, moved us with her ability to share her world through the lens of a camera. Her special ability to intertwine her diverse life influences into her work won her the coveted $5,000 Burt Reynolds Scholarship, which will help support her as she progresses in her education and professional film career. Additionally, Palm Beach Gardens High School student, Natalie Rodriguez, went home a two-time winner! Her scholarship-winning film reel portrayed the message that no matter who you are, where you come from, or what obstacles may be in your way, you are capable and worthy. And Natalie’s dreamy spotlight on the beauty of The Palm Beaches earned her the Tourism PSA Award. I’ve got no doubt that we’ll be seeing more from these talented ladies. Past winners include Wes Ball who went on to direct the Maze Runner trilogy and the upcoming film, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes. Other notable alumni include Paul Haluch (Concrete Jungle, Legend Within) and Raymond Knudsen (Stage Ready, Full Circle, 4th and Forever: Muck City). What is next? In the meantime, the FTC continues to market and promote the County as a world-class production destination and we’re looking forward to the launch of TGL Golf, a tech-infused and made-for-TV sporting event that’ll bring large production crews to the County while showcasing The Palm Beaches during primetime hours on ESPN over the course of four months, starting January 2025. And of course, I have to highlight what really puts our Palm Beach County Film and Television Commission on the map. The FTC

goes beyond being just a film commission… we actively generate production and grow the local economy through our destination’s official tourism channel, The Palm Beaches TV (PBTV). In 2017, we created a Sponsorship & Development Program as an avenue to developing original, high-quality, family-friendly programming that showcases the County’s cultural and historical diversity, attraction offerings, and abundance of unique and inclusive experiences. We’re currently broadcasting 92 hours of content and are sponsoring more than 30 hours of new and original content that’ll premiere on networks like Travel Channel, Discovery’s Destination America, Bally Sports, and PBS. Shows air on PBTV shortly after premiering on the network and can be watched 24/7 on demand at ThePalmBeaches.TV, in a variety of public places, and in nearly 5,000 hotel rooms. Our team is now working on the channel’s expansion of distribution onto FAST TV platforms. And looking ahead to next year, we're gearing up for The 30th Annual Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films, and we couldn't be more excited. We're committed to nurturing the talents of Florida's aspiring student filmmakers. To all the students out there dreaming of a career in the film and teletelevision industry, remember that The Palm Beaches will always be here for you — as a place you can call home as you pursue your passion. And to everyone who has supported us along the way, thank you for helping us make the magic happen year after year. The Palm Beach County Film and Television Commission is dedicated to maintaining The Palm Beaches as a film-friendly community that welcomes and supports production companies and crews. Here's to the next generation of filmmakers and the bright future of cinema in The Palm Beaches! www.pbfilm.com

Wanda Stevens Rielly with Cautionary Tale in her New Book, “You Have Been Catfished” By Jules Lavallee

I was raised in Massachusetts. I lived also in New Hampshire for 30 years. I have two sons Johnny is 33 Andy is 31 they live in New Hampshire. I moved down to Tennessee 4 years ago. I graduated from Rockland High School in 1980 in Massachusetts. In my younger years I was a makeup artist for Chanel Cosmetics, a manager for Dedham Casual Corner and graduated from John Robert Powers Modeling school in my twenties. I was married from 1992 and divorced in 2007 we lived in Goffstown NH. In 2000 I went back to College and got my Medical Coding Certificate. I was a Medical Coder for 16 and a half years. I have been President, Vice President, and a member development officer of the AAPC New Hampshire Chapter from 2017,2018 and 2019. After the Catfishing episode I felt I needed a fresh start. I drove from Massachusetts to Tennessee. I met my soon to be husband 2 and a half years ago we got married last March 30, 2023, we knew his time was limited on this earth he had been given 6 months to 2 years to live. He made it 2 and a half years which the good Lord took him June 1st of last year 2023 which also happens to be my Birthday. We had two months of marriage together before he passed away. This June I will be 62 years young. I am still working in a retail store here in Jackson TN. What led you to write your book, "You Have Been

Catfished?” At first, I didn't want to tell anyone that I was Catfished. I was humiliated, embarrassed and my heart hurt. I thought I was talking to a handsome army man, not a person behind a picture. I wrote about my experience in hopes to help people who may be in the same boat as I was.

I was going through a bad break up and the hospital that I worked at in Manchester N.H had a volunteer group to send troops socks, soaps, lotion Band-aids etc. in a stocking and we also included signed cards. I kept receiving songs and good morning, GIFs from someone. I thought it was one of the guys. He texted me every day telling me about his day and the first time I sent him money was because his son had a birthday, and he said his accounts were frozen. He paid attention to me when I was in a house with family and a roommate that I used to date. Did you see any red flags? Yes, I saw a lot of red flags every time he knew I was getting money, his son got sick, his son's electricity was going to be turned off, that had millions in it needed to get out of the country because the company that he was a part of wanted him to get it out. I wrote about it when it was happening. It has been 6 years now, so I wrote about our texts and how I asked

him if he was real and why he needed money every time I got paid. He always told me he would pay me back double. I said I didn't want double; I wanted the money I put into him and his son and his son's teacher. What did you learn about yourself during this experience?

I learned that I had been too trusting and that I had been dupped. I was an empathetic and an enabler, now I am not so trusting. I send light and love to all who have hurt. Warning, the minute they ask for money, I put the guy’s photo in social catfish, and I block them. It is all in my book. I wrote about our conversations and how he drew me in. I am not the only one they did this to. People have lost their homes, their cars, their lives and have gone to jail helping these people. I don't know how they pick us. Are they someone we knew? Are they random men who are in a room seeing who can get the most money out of their victims or are they a family member or an ex that we have cut off? I will never know why I only know that I needed to bring awareness to victims out there paying Catfished now or to people who think their loved one is being Catfished. www.amazon.com/HaveCatfished-Wanda-StevensReilly/dp/B0C6G8YNLW

Marian A. Lopez, Owner of Mama Cheesecake, Gains Celebrity Love: Featured on Gwenyth Paltow and Tra c y A nde r s on’s Podc a s t “ Re s ta r t Pr oj e c t” By Jules Lavallee

Marian fully embracing the world of pastry and cheesecake, I traversed diverse professional landscapes, including a pivotal role as an Independent Contractor in the insurance industry for over two decades. From serving as a Trainer to ascending to the position of Regional Coordinator, she honed invaluable skills in leadership, organization, and business expertise. “My entrepreneurial spirit manifested itself in various forms, including a successful stint as the director of a gourmet cookie store, where I orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, propelling the shop from financial struggle to profitability with a stellar holiday campaign.”

In 2012, I seized an opportunity to pitch a business concept at a competition, emerging victorious and subsequently launching Mama Cheesecake nine months later. As a self-taught Pastry Chef, I’ve dedicated myself to mastering the art of pastry making and expanding the boundaries of cheesecake innovation. Continuing to evolve and grow, I've pursued ongoing education in both baking techniques and business strategies, seizing every opportunity to refine my craft and elevate my enterprise. My journey has been punctuated by notable accolades, including the prestigious Businesswomen Award from the National Latina Business Women Association-LA (NLBWA-LA) in 2016. I've had the privilege of sharing my story and expertise on platforms ranging from online television with Gwyneth Paltrow and Tracy Anderson's Restart Project to prominent publications like Professional Women Magazine,

where I've been featured for my inspirational journey from humble beginnings to entrepreneurial success. As I look ahead, I'm fueled by a sense of purpose and possibility, eager to chart new heights and expand the reach of Mama Cheesecake to bring joy to even the most refined tastes.

yourself at any age. My message to others is to never underestimate the power of resilience and the potential for growth, no matter where you are in life. Embrace new opportunities, take risks, have faith, and believe in yourself wholeheartedly. Your second chapter can be even more fulfilling than the first.

You have navigated a path less traveled. Share your backstory and what led you to launch, Mama Cheesecake.

"The Restart Project" w/Gwyneth Paltrow, Tracy Anderson, and myself. My sharing of Mama Cheesecake's "The Back Story": https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=DlPhtNLJVmQ

At 58 years old, launching Mama’s Cheesecake wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about rediscovering a passion that had always been there. After decades spent raising my children and supporting them through school, I found myself drawn back to the kitchen, where my love for baking had first sparked. The idea of transforming a traditional dessert like cheesecake into something lighter, with less sugars, and yet more delightful drove me to take the leap. Mama Cheesecake isn’t just a business; it’s a culmination of years of experience, a testament to the power of following your heart, no matter your age! Your powerful story caught the attention of Gwyneth Paltrow and Tracy Anderson of “The Restart Project.” What do you want people to know about starting a second chapter at 58years old? Starting a new chapter at 58 is about embracing change and realizing that age is just a number. It’s never too late to pursue your passions and dreams. As I’ve evolved, I’ve learned to trust in my abilities and believe in myself more than ever before. My journey is proof that with determination and perseverance, you can reinvent

Mama’s Cheesecake is a favorite among celebrities. Let’s delve into your creations. What can we find at Mama Cheesecake? At Mama Cheesecake, you’ll find a delicious selection of handcrafted cheesecakes and pastries crafted with love, magic, and creativity. What sets us apart is our commitment to using only the finest quality ingredients, less sugar, and our innovative approach to flavors. From classic favorites like Mama’s New York Lemon with fresh berries dipped in apricot glaze to unique creations like Lemon, Ginger, & Rosemary. Each bite is an experience filled with magic and love with great taste and texture. Our cheesecakes are known for their lightness, not sweet with yet an amazing flavor, and delicacy, thanks to a recipe perfected over 30 years ago. Whether you’re indulging in our signature 1-ounce Cheesecake Bites, savoring our Cheesecake Fluff in a reusable jar, or biting into one of our Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies stuffed with vanilla bean cheesecake. Every bite is a testament to our passion for creating pure deliciousness.

How have you perfected your craft over the years?

Perfecting my craft has been a journey of continuous learning and refinement. Over the years, I've dedicated myself to mastering the art of pastry-making through handson experience, experimentation, classes, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I've embraced new techniques, explored diverse flavor profiles, and sought inspiration from both traditional and innovative sources. Through each challenge and triumph, I've grown as a pastry chef, constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity and quality. Ultimately, it's my unwavering passion for creating exceptional desserts that drives me to constantly strive for perfection in every aspect of my craft. Podcast "Bakers in the Kitchen Drinking Coffee" www.facebook.com/watch/live/?re f=watch_permalink&v=853188859 389107 What is it about cheesecake that brings families together? At Mama Cheesecake, it's not just about indulging in delicious treats— it's about creating unforgettable moments that bring families closer together. As you share our cheesecake creations with your loved ones, it becomes more than

just a dessert; it becomes a catalyst for storytelling, laughter, and bonding. I've witnessed firsthand how the simple act of enjoying a bite of Mama Cheesecake can spark conversations, evoke cherished memories, and ignite dreams of future adventures. Whether it's figuring out the intricate flavors or simply reveling in the joy of each bite… I’ve seen this with my own family! Our desserts have a magical way of fostering connections and spreading happiness. My family's experience mirrors what I've heard from customers who have shared the Mama Cheesecake with family, friends, and groups who have shared in the love and magic of Mama Cheesecake. It's more than just a dessert -- it's a symbol of togetherness, love, and the simple pleasures of life. Mother’s Day is around the corner. Tell us about your special selections. Crafting a Mother's Day treat with Mama's signature flair, the Meyer Lemon & Ginger Cheesecake Fluff Cup is sure to be a highlight. Nestled atop a bed of roasted ginger & graham crumbs and crowned with a tangy Meyer lemon & ginger curd, it promises a symphony of flavors. Joining this citrus sensation is our timeless favorite. The New York Lemon Cheesecake, adorned with fresh berries dipped in apricot glaze,

strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart—a true crowdpleaser. Equally enticing is Mama's Churro with Salted Caramel Cheesecake, marrying the warmth of cinnamon and sugar with the indulgent allure of salted caramel. It's a decadent delight that's bound to make any mom feel cherished. We also have a wonderful Cookies & Cream. Cheesecake Bites Assortment: Treat Mom to a variety of flavors with our Cheesecake Bites Assortment. New York Lemon, Churro & Salted Caramel, and Cookies & Cream. These bite-sized delights are perfect for sampling and sharing. Whichever deliciousness you select, rest assured it's crafted with Mama's hallmark love, magic, and attention to detail. Podcast "Bakers in the Kitchen Drinking Coffee" www.facebook.com/watch/live/?re f=watch_permalink&v=853188859 389107 www.mamacheesecake.com https://www.facebook.com/Mama Cheesecake

https://instagram.com/mamachees ecakela

Daymond John & Marian A. Lopez

Treat Mama to a

MAMA C h e e s e c a k e for Mother’s Day!!!!!

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Michael Ungaro, CEO of San Pedro Fish Market with Popular Show, Kings of Fi$H By Jules Lavallee

Michael Ungaro currently holds the role of CEO for the San Pedro Fish Market family of businesses as well as the Kings of Fi$h Docuseries. His first job in the enterprise began with his father Henry in the summer 1978 at the age of seven. Ungaro got his start shoveling ice and packing ice cold fish filets. The work was so grueling that Ungaro took the next four summers off to play and be a kid! The San Pedro Fish Market is the largest family owned and operating restaurant in the country. Take us back to the beginning. In 1956 my Grandfather, Mackey Ungaro, opened a small corner store in the seaside fishing town of San Pedro, CA which is on the Los Angeles harbor. The location was called Vista Seafood, and it was only 200 sq/ft in size. My dad, Henry Ungaro, and his best friend, Tommy Amalfitano, would go there after school to run the place with friends. They were only 15 years old at the time. In 1959 the operation moved down to the waterfront, taking over a fish market called Norm’s Landing. My Dad and Tommy ran that place for decades learning all about the fish business, testing all sorts of new things. They learned how to Smoke Fish, they brought in tanks for live crab and lobster which they would cook and sell, sold Shrimp Cocktails and Corn on the Cob and plenty of fresh seafood to take home. As the years passed the area began to be developed and the Ports O Call village was built, one of the first ever themed shopping and dining areas and it was located right next to us. Over time, the village produced plans to expand, and Norm’s Landing was in the way. In the late 70’s it became clear we’d have to move. Thanks to our reputation and network of friends in the city we were able to secure a place on the waterfront to build a new location. So, we left our buildings and operated out of a parking lot for over

a year while the new location was built. On Good Friday 1982 San Pedro Fish Market and Restaurant was opened for business…and then it rained the rest of the year and we almost lost everything. This concept was new, and it was designed to accommodate the changing wants and needs of our customers – it had a walk-up counter where you could by fried calamari, fish and chips, clam chowder, etc. There was a dining room where you could order seafood plates with Swordfish, Halibut and Sea Bass served with Veggies and Rice Pilaf. The problem was the weather because although the dining room had seating for 75, there was seating for over 300 outside…in the rain! Somehow, we managed to survive the year and found our stride. Tommy kept innovating with new dishes and new ways to give customers something they’d never had before. There was one that became a real game changer for us. At one point he had the idea to offer our customers the option to cook any seafood they purchased for an extra dollar. He then saw local restaurants selling something called fajitas. That’s when a light build went off and he decided we could do that with shrimp and fish adding veggies, potatoes, and tortillas or garlic bread with a signature spice we invented – the World Fish Shrimp Tray was born, and it became an instant hit! Pretty soon 300 seats weren’t enough, so we had to expand and add more deck space. The solution was taking over the neighboring Crusty Crab Fish Market (which was one of several copy-cat restaurants opened on the waterfront) so we could expand further. This eventually brought us to 3000 seats and at the end of 2022 we served 2 million people for the year. As an interesting historical side note, going back to the late 1950’s, one day all of the kids in school were asked what they wanted to do when they grew up and Tommy said, “I want to own the biggest fish market in town”. Well, if you believe in manifesting your destiny, this is a pretty good

example. What makes your restaurant loved by so many? At San Pedro Fish Market one of our core values is FAMILY. My grandfather’s philosophy was to treat your employees like family, make sure your guests feel like family, and to always take care of your community because they are your family. I think this is a primary reason we have so many employees that have been with us for as long as 25 years and more. As for our longevity through decades of wars, recessions and even a pandemic, I think our ability to constantly pivot and innovate is a primary reason for our success. For example, as the demographics change our customer base changed, too. Some businesses stick to what they do and never change and sometimes it works, but often what they offer becomes obsolete and they fade and fail. We always changed what we offered based on what our customers asked for whether it was food, drink or the space. For example, over the decades we’ve had several different cultures become our customer base, and each one was looking for seafood from their traditions and backgrounds. Some are constants like Calamari and Fish and Chips, but others not so much, so we had to listen. In the 1980’s our customer base started to shift towards people of Latin descent, and they weren’t looking for the items we had. For example, you could have two different species of Red Snapper in the ice. One would be caught off the coast of Oregon and the other from Cabo San Lucas. When our customers started buying more of the fish from Mexico, we knew it was time to change what we were offering. These new groups of customers visited in large groups, all families, so we served everything Family Style and changed our round tables to long picnic style benches so the entire family could sit together. Most businesses won’t or can’t make changes like that, but we did, and the customers appreciated it and kept coming.

Today we have people who tell us, “My parents used to bring me here on the weekends when I was young, so I bring them now along with my kids. We must keep the tradition alive.” What I also find interesting is that at least 1/3 of our visitors are always first timers who’ve heard about us and really wanted to experience us firsthand. That’s a lot of people when you’re serving tens of thousands or people every week. Tell us about your award-winning web series, Kings of Fi$H. Kings of Fi$h tells our story. I thought it was important to take control of that because I started noticing our customers telling stories about us that were not even close to the truth. It showed up in social media first then in some local news stories. But I wasn’t sure how to effectively correct this. My lightbulb lit up when we were attempting to set 3 Guinness World Records in a single day. A production company approached us asking if they could film it. They felt we may have the potential for a reality series but needed to see how we reacted with a camera in our face.

Turns out we had plenty of characters who were naturals for the camera. The company was Citizen Jones films, and they were super cool to work with. They packaged the entire day into a sizzle reel and tried to shop it around. We were a lot like Duck Dynasty with fish.

I really thought we had something, so we put our own team together and started self-producing the show under the name Kings of Fi$h. I believe the first episodes, four in total, about 5 minutes long each, launched at the end of June 2017. We only had them on our Facebook page, but it had a ton of views and we saw a significant jump in sales.

We then teamed up with a marketing company called Foodbeast who was building their own online content and streaming it. They were interested in having our show on their platforms and we were looking to broaden our audience to their viewers. I don’t think either of us expected what happened next. FoodBeast did a promotional event at our location, and it instantly went viral with over 10 million views in the first week. The result was the busiest month of March we ever had: over 30,000 customers visited us from all of the country in a matter of just 10 days to sample the seafood tray FoodBeast made viral.

I can still remember being out of town on a college tour with my daughter and the Port of Los Angeles Police called me saying “Mike…what are you doing to generate all of this traffic? We don’t have enough officers working to handle it and had to shut roads down to channel the traffic.” It was insane and all related to Kings of Fi$h.

During the pandemic tragedy struck and we lost two family members to covid - Tommy’s son and daughter. This was a huge blow to our families, our business family, and our series. Tommy’s kids were loved by all, and Tommy Jr was the comedic star of the Kings of Fi$h series. We really didn’t see a reason to continue after that. Then we were approached by a company that wanted 8 episodes at 20 minutes each for a streaming channel. We met as a family with our producer Tim, who was very fond of Tommy Jr, and he made us an offer. Basically, if we decided to proceed, he would make sure there was an appropriate tribute that would honor Tommy Junior’s while acknowledging his passing and do it in a way that would make all of us proud. So, we agreed…what we didn’t know is that during

production we would be faced with having to vacate our San Pedro Locations to make room for another development. We were all distraught with the situation but then we started thinking, this could make for a very compelling story arc in the series and there is still time to make it happen…so we did! Watch Kings of Fi$H: www.kingsoffishtv.com What are some of the challenges you have faced on your road to success? I’ve personally had several challenges and it always seems there are two setbacks to everyone move forward. Being a business owner entrepreneur is extremely difficult, demanding and can be exhausting. A few examples that come to mind:

At one point in my life, I left to open my own restaurant and it was a miserable failure that financially wiped me out. We lost our home, our savings, and almost had to claim bankruptcy. But I pulled through, doubled down on what I learned, and used it to help improve my family’s enterprise. Ultimately those became learning lesson that proved to be very valuable. I developed a frozen meal version of our world-famous shrimp trays that could be prepared at home in 10 minutes. It took a long time to perfect, but once we figured out how to make them, they were for sale in over 6000 stores in 5 states including Sam’s Club….yet it was never profitable. The primary mistake I made was not understanding who the customer was. I was making these for our restaurant customers so the product they brought home was as close as possible to the experience they had dining with us.

The problem was cost and price. The product needed to be sold under $10 and we were about $1 over that. The customer is always the person paying you, and in this case, it was the grocery store buyer, not the San Pedro Fish customers. The grocery store buyer needed the price under $10 and I didn’t realize that till Share some of the popular dishes that we can find on Kings of Fi$H.

At San Pedro Fish Market what we’re known for are the WorldFamous Seafood Trays that customers design by choosing their favorite fish and adding veggies, potatoes, sausage, corn and tortillas or garlic bread. These are HUGE family style trays that everyone can enjoy while sitting on the waterfront sipping on an ice cold Michelada, another item we’re famous for. Kings of Fi$h has plenty of footage where these trays are being cooked and consumed. Our entire concept is very experiential which attracts visitors from all over the country. As a matter of fact, our polling of customers shows that more than 50% of our visitors come to us and then go to Disneyland in the same weekend visit.

Kings of Fi$H has been so successful that you are launching a TV series. Tell us more!

The Kings of Fish Series tells the story of who we are, what we do, and how we keep the business alive and thriving, despite threats like having to leave our buildings and operate out of a parking lot like we did in the 80’s. This new season is like a reboot, instead of 5-minute streaming shorts, it will be 8 television episodes that are all 22 minutes long and streaming on Amazon Prime with Pepsi Cola as our sponsor. It’s a really exciting shift in a new direction for the company where we are now transitioning to be a media company building a brand as opposed to a mom-and-pop fish shop.

Tell us about your expansion plans and your dreams for the future.

The Landing is a temporary location that will enable us to continue offering our customers the same great experience we’ve provided since San Pedro Fish Market opened its doors in 1982. The reason we’re calling it The Landing is a throwback to our Norm’s Landing location which we left to make room for the waterfront’s redevelopment in the 80’s where we were also working out of a temporary parking lot spot. This time we’re much better equipped with technology, branding, operations, etc. We expect the landing location to be

something special once the final version is completed and fully opened with plenty of waterfront seating. We will stay in this location while we build our permanent location almost right back where we started but this time inside the West Harbor project. The new San Pedro Fish Market should be opened in 3 years or less with a totally upgraded experience, more seating, the same fantastic view and, of course, the best seafood experience you’ve ever had.

Beyond that, we also have plans to expand into other locations. We’ve been negotiating with the city or Monterey California for a prime spot on their wharf and hope to have a big announcement about that very soon.

We are also in talk with the city of Anaheim for a possible location around their resort area so stay tuned!

https://www.sanpedrofish.com/

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https://www.instagram.com/sanp edrofish

https://www.tiktok.com/@sanpe drofish

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Getty Images Selected as Official Photographer of 2024 Met Gala Met Gala 2024 A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link. NEW YORK, April 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Getty Images (NYSE: GETY), a preeminent global visual content creator and marketplace, has once again been named the Official Photographer of The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute Benefit, more commonly known as The Met Gala. The gala, which takes place on May 6, is the premier event on the international fashion calendar, bringing together icons from the world of fashion, film, music, sports, business, and art. For the sixth consecutive gala, Getty Images’ award-winning entertainment photographers and videographers will cover every aspect of the invitation-only event. This includes red carpet arrivals and departures, as well as candid images from inside the party and live performance. Imagery from inside The Met Gala will be available for license exclusively on gettyimages.com. Getty Images’ Vice President of Global Entertainment Kirstin Benson said, “As the world’s foremost fashion event, The Met Gala brings together the very best talent in art and fashion for an unparalleled evening, and our editorial team is there to capture it all. We are thrilled to build on our longstanding partnership with The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Vogue and be at the forefront of delivering unmatched, compelling and differentiated content in real time to global media, clients, partners and fans at home via our unrivaled distribution platform. Each year, our best-in-class team continues to innovate and find fresh perspectives—intent on providing an intimate look at this iconic and exclusive event—through our world-class imagery and video that our global customer base won’t find anywhere else.” With Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, Chris Hemsworth and Vogue’s Anna Wintour serving as co-chairs, the gala will celebrate the opening of The Costume Institute’s spring exhibition Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion. The exhibition will feature approximately 250 items drawn from the Costume Institute’s permanent collection. The pieces will include designs by Schiaparelli, Dior, Givenchy, and more, spanning over 400 years of fashion history. For nearly 30 years, Getty Images’ team of content creators have worked tirelessly to create award-winning imagery and video that allows customers to set themselves apart from their competition, while including a diverse set of experiences and perspectives throughout the content creation process. In addition to The Met Gala, Getty Images content creators are at every major entertainment event globally, from awards ceremonies to fashion weeks to film festivals, covering almost 70,000 entertainment events a year and partnering with major brands on creative content strategy.

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