City to Country Magazine May/June 2016 Issue

C I T Y

L I F E

T O

C O U N T R Y

L I V I N G USA $5.99 Canada $6.99 May / June 2016 Issue

M AG A Z I N E

JOSEPH

WARTNERCHANEY

TALKS ABOUT “DECAY”

MICHAEL SUN LEE

FULLER HOUSE DRESSED FOR SUCCESS

LORYNN YORK CARL PALMER

BRIAN KRAUSE A MAN OF MANY LAYERS

CARL PALMER OPENS UP ABOUT THE DEATH OF KEITH EMERSON

COTENTS COVER STORY Brian Krause A Man Of Many Layers .............. 6-12 MUSIC Carl Palmer And The Death Of Keith Emerson ........................... 13-17 Billy Sherwood Of Yes ............... 18-20 Brauninger ................................. 21 Sonny Hunter ............................ 22

MOVIES Joseph Wartnerchaney Directing Decay ......................... 24-25 Shelby Young ............................ 26-28 Michael Sun Lee Fuller House .............................. 30-31 CELEBRITIES Lorynn York – Dressed For Success ................ 32-37 E.G. Daily ................................... 38

13

32

24

6 www.facebook.com/citytocountrymagazine/

www.instagram.com/citytocountrymag/

www.pinterest.com/citytocountryma/

www.twitter.com/citytcountrymag

http://citytocountrymagazine.com/

www.citytocountrymagazine.com

May / June 2016 Issue

PROPERTY Lauren Davis .............................. 39 SHOWTIME Showtime Presents Treasures From The Past........... 40-42 LIFESTYLE Victoria Maxson ......................... 43 RECIPES Chili-Mac Soup.......................... 44 Ice Cream Filled Chocolate Cups Topped With Fresh Strawberries .................... 45 Sassy Sloppy Joes .................... 46 Tropical Fruit Cocktail Salad ........................... 47 Mexican Wedding Cookies ...................... 48 Rolled Buttercream Fondant ..................................... 49 Quick Pour Chocolate Fondant .................... 50 Lemon Cream Cheese Swirl Coffee Cake ...................... 51

46

President & Owner LISA SNYDER citytocountrymagazine@gmail.com Director of Operations/Business Adviser TAMMY KC HEGYES tammykchegyes67@gmail.com Executive Editor & Managing Editor TERRI BASSETT terrirbassett@yahoo.com Assistant Editor &Writer COVAN MAGEE Creative Director & Head of Layouts AMY PAYCANA ESPALDON amyespaldon@icloud.com Journalists Head Writer & Advice Columnist Freelance Writer/Executive Director at Bongo Boy TV Freelance Writer & Interviews/PR Freelance Writer Interviews/Owner/CEO at Wings By The Flock) Freelance Writer Entertainment and Sports Columnist Photographers/Photojournalists Sports & Entertainment Photojournalist at Sterling Images -Freelance Photography Photojournalist Photojournalist Photojournalist

SUE MCGAUGHEY MONIQUE GRIMME MICHELLE MAGEE JAY LUSTER CAMERON HOLDER ROBYN WEISS JAY LUSTER BRENT GROH JESSICA ROSE ED SANDOVAL ERIC TIER

Write To Us: 1911 Market Street Beatrice, Nebraska 68310 City To Country Magazine would like to thank our sponsors for their contributions and will be making changes to our digital and print issues to bring our readers and viewers the best of the best!

Sponsors: BongoBoy Tv & Radio, Sue’s Coffee Talk, Bella Lavie Collection, Bullzeye Entertainment For those who would like to become a part of our Team here at City To Country Magazine you can join us over at CityToCountryMagazine.com and show your support.

For those who would like to advertise and or sponsor in an issue you can email us at citytocountrymagazine@gmail.com City To Country Magazine is a Bimonthly Magazine.

This publication may not be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission from the Publisher/Owner Lisa Snyder.

Copyright© 2016 City To Country Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

Distraction By Ingram Periodicals, Inc. http://www.ingramcontent.com

COVERSTORY

6 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

COVERSTORY

BRIAN KRAUSE A MAN OF MANY LAYERS WRITTEN BY SUE MCGAUGHEY

Part of yourself is out there acting and being famous, and part of yourself is trying to figure out and fill a void. People think because you’re famous you have everything, but you don’t.

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 7

COVERSTORY

B

rian Krause is a man of many layers. A native of Orange County, California, Brian Krause began his acting career at the age of 17. His mom was always enamored with TV and film, which rubbed-off on Brian. His mom always encouraged him to do whatever he wanted to do, whether it was baseball, soccer, golf, or acting. She suggested taking an actor’s workshop, which Brian eventually did. His mom was his biggest fan! Brian also participated in high school drama class. People started telling him he was good, so he figured, “Why not give it a try?” His “try” propelled him onto the entertainment path.

Brian is best known for his portrayal of “Whitelighter” Leo Wyatt on Aaron Spelling’s popular program, Charmed (1998) [1998-2006/The WB], where he starred opposite Alyssa Milano, Rose McGowan, Holly Marie Combs, and Shannen Doherty. He starred on the show for eight seasons and appeared in 154 episodes. The Charmed cast and crew became like family to Brian. He admits he learned a lot on that set. His character, Leo Wyatt, definitely became a household name. Brian said he loved playing Leo, because he was magic. Brian had the ability to play a versatile character. Leo was a character that one episode could be from the ‘70s and the next from the ‘80s. It was a fun role Brian was able to immerse himself in. He grew an extensive base of fans who are

8 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

still loyal to this day. Brian appreciates all of his fans.

The fans show so much love and support, and Brian acknowledges that.

Since wrapping Charmed (1998), Krause has guest starred in numerous TV shows and independent films. In addition to his long run on the television show Charmed, Brian’s claim to fame would have to be the film Return to the Blue Lagoon (1991) with Milla Jovovich. Brian spoke of how Columbia Pictures put a lot of money into the promotion of that film. Brian Krause’s name began to soar. Since then, Brian has worked on many films, including Stephen King’s Sleepwalkers with Alice Krige and Madchen Amick. Brian has continued to be active in many films over the years. He recently wrapped on the film Corrupt, directed by Peter Sullivan, where he plays a Russian spy. He also just wrapped Ribbons, written and directed by Elias Matar. Ribbons is slated for a spring 2016 release. Currently, Krause is being sought after, especially in the indie market. He has several projects lined-up.

Brian has decided he also wants to try his hand on the other side of the camera. Writing, producing, and directing are in his future. Brian is currently working on a few projects that soon will be public knowledge.

Let’s just say Brian Krause is a man with a big heart and a cause he believes in. One of his projects that is

COVERSTORY

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 9

COVERSTORY

10 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

COVERSTORY

I want to still be doing what I love and being even better at it. I want to get into writing, producing, and directing as well. As for acting, I’d love to be a regular on another show.

That would be fun.

currently in development will reflect the heart that this man has. Many people make the statement, “I want to make a difference.” Brian Krause really does want to make a difference. Although acting is first and foremost in his heart, after over 30 years in the industry, Brian is looking forward to exploring those new avenues behind the camera as well.

Brian is a man of depth. His life hasn’t always been easy.

Having been a celebrity since his teenage years, Brian was faced with many temptations. Many times, people in the entertainment industry succumb to the pressure of fitting in, being accepted into certain circles, and just feeling pressure from many directions. Even though Brian was thrown into fame early on, he still felt like something was missing in his life. He felt a void and wasn’t quite sure how to fill it. That’s when he found himself going home to have a few drinks, rather than unwinding in a more positive way. “I started to think I wanted to be a professional drinker,” Brian said lightheartedly. “Part of yourself is out there acting and being famous, and part of yourself is trying to figure out and fill a void. People think because you’re famous you have everything, but you don’t.” While his fans thought he was living a full and gifted life, Brian was struggling with filling his void.

After a brief encounter with the law, Brian Krause found himself rethinking life and his own personal choices.

Thankfully, Brian has been completely clean for quite some time now. He is completely on the path of good health and fitness.

One of Brian’s biggest accomplishments was learning it’s alright to love yourself. He took control of his demons and kicked their butts to the curb! That void he once felt is being filled up now with love, compassion, ambition,

and a zealous feeling for life. “Life is short. You have to live it. You need to be thankful for every day and learn to wake up and put yourself into a positive mindset,” Krause said. He does just that. Every morning when he wakes up, he prepares himself mentally and positively for the day.

On his downtime, if any, Brian loves to run. It’s not unusual for him to go out for a three-mile run and come back 12 miles later. He also hits the gym on the regular these days and goes hiking. His one main pleasure, though, is a good game of golf. Brian isn’t just about working out physically; he works out mentally. A big part of his downtime is also spent studying films. He likes to figure things out, such as asking himself questions about how and why a film did or did not make it. He studies and researches, so he can refine his own skills and talent. He is fascinated by the whole process. He’s a firm believer in research, study, and give yourself as much knowledge as possible. Brian is determined to get himself into the best shape of his life physically, mentally, and professionally.

When Brian Krause was asked where he sees himself five years from now, his response was simple, “Alive!” He continues, “I want to still be doing what I love and being even better at it. I want to get into writing, producing, and directing as well. As for acting, I’d love to be a regular on another show. That would be fun.” Brian’s passions run deep. He still has so much to accomplish and more ideas to cultivate. Brian Krause is more into his career now than ever. “I still have so many other talented people I look forward to working with,” Brian stated. There are so many greats out there, like the Eastwoods and the De Niros of the world. Some of the earlier great talents that

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 11

COVERSTORY

inspired Brian throughout his career were people like Steve McQueen, Robert Redford, and of course, Clint Eastwood. Krause has been known to like acting in a good Western now and then.

Brian Krause is on a positive path. He’s striving for his dreams and making his dreams reality. With hard work, perseverance, and an “anything is possible” attitude, the future is looking good. One piece of wisdom Brian would like to pass on to newcomers is this, “As an actor, your emotional state is important. You should treat your acting like a hobby, and you’ll be much better at it. Always perceive, believe, achieve, and remember that failure is not an option. It’s all about being competent, positive, and true to yourself. Hollywood is so much like high school. If you get caught up in the circles, you

12 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

are not looking out for yourself. Be confident, positive, believe in yourself, be prepared, and know your lines!

Never go into an audition unprepared.”

Brian Krause is certainly an inspiration. His attitude and outlook on life are infectious. He is a man of depth, courage, and a good sense of humor. During this interview, he let out a little bit of a sneak peek into one of his next projects, “Think shooting with an iPhone, a GoPro, and a bit of a backyard set.” A passionate, compassionate, and driven man, Brian Krause is stronger than ever as he continues to make his imprint as an actor, producer, writer, and director. Ironically, Brian Krause started his climb in the entertainment industry as a beam of light, and he continues to shine that light even brighter today.

MUSIC

CARL PALMER AND THE DEATH OF KEITH EMERSON WRITTEN BY JAY LUSTER

You see, I really have to tell you that it all gets so intense.

From my experience, it just doesn’t seem to make sense.

Still... you turn me on.

Excerpt from the song “Still…You Turn Me On” from Emerson, Lake & Palmer’s Brain Salad Surgery album. Lyrics by Greg Lake.

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 13

MUSIC

O

n March 10, 2016, Keith Emerson, the keyboardist from the Progressive Rock band Emerson, Lake & Palmer (ELP), committed suicide. Two days later, bassist/singer for the band, Greg Lake, sent out a statement that said in part, “Keith and I spent many of the best years of our lives together, and what I will always remember was his remarkable talent as a musician and composer and his gift and passion to entertain. Music was his life, and I am sure that the music he created will live on forever.” ELP drummer, Carl Palmer, put out a more personal statement that said in part, “Keith was a gentle soul whose love for music and passion for his performance will remain unmatched.

I will always remember his warm smile, good sense of humor, compelling showmanship, and dedication to his musical craft. I am very lucky to have known him.”

Both statements clearly said that music was the most important thing in Emerson’s life, and that is where you need to start, if you want to understand his death.

According to Palmer, “Keith was in a lot of pain and was worried about his ability to perform.” He was scheduled

14 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

to appear in Japan, where some of ELP’s most rabid fans reside. He continues, “Keith had an operation to relieve his carpal tunnel, but there was permanent nerve damage, and he was worried he couldn’t play the way he used to.” This was actually an understatement, because in recent years, Emerson would bring other keyboardists on tour to play in collaboration with him on pieces he used to perform by himself. The nerve damage in his elbow not only sapped his ability to play up to his exacting standards, it also, apparently, left him vulnerable to depression.

Depression is an insidious mental illness that can be treated with both medications and other kinds of therapy, but in Keith Emerson’s case, the problem was exacerbated by alcoholism. Palmer said, “He was mixing antidepressants with alcohol. Keith liked his drink. Those kinds of drugs are dangerous, and the doctors over here (the UK) will only leave you on them for a short period of time. In America, they’ll keep you on them for too long, and Keith was on them for years. You add drink on top of that, and well, I blame his doctors.” In the wake of

MUSIC

Keith was a gentle soul whose love for music and passion for his performance will remain unmatched.

I will always remember his warm smile, good sense of humor, compelling showmanship, and dedication to his musical craft.

I am very lucky to have known him.

his death, the speculation quickly focused on his physical pain and his growing fear of performing poorly. While seeming to confirm this assumption, Palmer, with a hint of bitterness, says, “He didn’t have to do this. He was still able to write and arrange on his piano. It didn’t have to be over. He could still play. This was his choice.” Hinting at why Emerson would make such a tragic choice, Mari Kawaguchi, Emerson’s longtime partner, told the UK’s Daily Mail, “Keith was worried, because nerve damage to a hand had affected his playing. Last year, he played concerts, and people posted mean comments, such as, ‘I wish he would stop playing.’” Perhaps that sensitivity is what, in part, led to the depression and alcoholism that marred the final years of his life.

Carl Palmer planned for Emerson to join him for some shows during his upcoming tour. Now, the Miami, Florida, show on June 24th is going to be a tribute concert. Palmer says, “I haven’t been in touch with Greg (Lake) yet, but he is, of course, welcome to be part of it.”

As for ELP, they didn’t perform together since the HighVoltage Festival during the summer of 2010. Palmer says, “It took six weeks of rehearsal to do that one show.

All of that playing was hard on Keith.” There were plans to do a couple of shows in the UK, France, Japan, and the US, but, “It took at least two days of rehearsal before each concert, and to travel that far and rehearse that much for just two shows wasn’t possible, so I decided to pull the plug on ELP.” He adds with finality, “Someone had to.” While it may have saddened their fans, Palmer made the decision with an obvious desire to protect his friend from the physical pain and stress of the mounting criticism of his playing.

Emerson, Lake & Palmer formed in late 1969 and began performing together during the summer of 1970. From his work with The Nice, Emerson already achieved both fame and infamy. They recorded the Leonard Bernstein song from West-Side Story, “America.” In Emerson’s hands, it became a bombastic attack on the 2nd Amendment of the American Constitution. The world had witnessed and was deeply troubled by the assassinations of President Kennedy, Reverend Martin Luther King, and presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy. During a live performance of the piece at The Royal Albert Hall, Emerson burned an American flag. The stunt may have gotten The Nice banned from that venue, but it surprisingly didn’t get them banned from coming to America. Meanwhile, the band King Crimson, fronted by bassist/guitarist/lead singer Greg Lake, reached international stardom with their highly successful record In the Court of the Crimson King, including the single “21st Century Schizoid Man.” That album is still considered one of the most influential albums of all time and is pointed to as one of the earliest records to bring Progressive Rock to the forefront of the music industry. Emerson and Lake jammed briefly and decided that they wanted to be in a band together.

Settling on the idea of being a three piece, they needed a drum player who could keep up with and enhance their prodigious talents. After considering several, they soon realized the best man for the job was the drummer from the band Atomic Rooster and The Crazy World of Arthur Brown before that, Carl Palmer.

From the moment they formed, ELP was considered a super-group, and they would live up to and exceed that hype. Palmer says, “We were heavily influenced by

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 15

MUSIC

In ‘81, YES released an album entitled 90125. The album name was the record company’s catalog number that the band had adopted as its working title, and it just stuck. Upon its release, it raced up the charts into the Top 10, powered by the mega-hit “Owner of a Lonely Heart.” The record would boast six Top 40 hits, four of which landed in the Top 10. The song “Leave It” was Anderson’s most vocally adventurous song ever. With an opening that sounded more like a Brian Wilson creation than a typical YES one, it lamented the rigors of being on the road. Considering that YES came into international prominence by eschewing the single in favor of full-fledged concept albums, it is ironic that their highest level of commercial success came about by way of glossy smash singles packed with soaring harmonies and boasting instrumental hooks galore.

Over the years, 19 different musicians have been members of the band. At one point in the ‘80s, their stage show grew to as many as eight or nine members.

One of those members is the multitalented California native, Billy Sherwood. He came to the attention of YES through bassist Chris Squire. Sherwood says, “I met Chris back in ‘87/‘88, somewhere around there, and we became fast friends and started writing material together.

He introduced me into the YES world, which became a big part of my career.” Soon, Sherwood was playing keyboards and working as a support vocalist, and it wasn’t long before he was writing and producing as well.

After a 30-year friendship and an off-and-on relationship with the band, it was only natural, when Squire fell ill to leukemia, that he asked Sherwood to fill in on bass.

Billy shares that Squire said, “I don’t want to stop the YES train; I want it to keep going. While I’m dealing with my illness, would you please step in and play bass?

You’re the only one I trust to do this job.” Sherwood continues “This guy was my hero, and now, he was not only asking me to replace him, but telling me that he might be deathly ill.”

On June 27, 2015, illness overcame him, and Squire passed away. He was the longest-standing member of YES and, in fact, was the only original musician to remain with the band throughout its nearly 40 years together. During his long and storied career, he wrote or co-wrote some of YES’ most famous and beloved songs, like “Starship Trooper,” “It Can Happen,” “Leave It,”

20 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

“Owner of a Lonely Heart,” and “I’ve Seen All Good People.” He wrote, arranged, produced, and played on his own projects as well as with a myriad of artists and bands, including Billy Sherwood’s solo work and their band together, Conspiracy. Replacing a Rock and Roll legend isn’t easy, and Sherwood says, “The guys know my passion for the band. They were also a big part of getting me in there. So now, we’re just moving forward, but it’s difficult to talk about Chris now that he’s not even here.” He adds, “Life is filled with all kinds of challenges, and this is certainly one that took me by complete surprise.”

Since Squire’s death, YES has toured nearly continuously, but of plans to record, Sherwood says, “Not at the moment. It’s been a rollercoaster for everybody, and it’s just too early, since Chris passed away, to think about creating new YES music.” However, Sherwood himself is never at a creative shortage. He says, “I’ve got a new record out with my band, Citizen. It’s a concept record about a lost soul being reincarnated in various periods of history. The record features a bunch of great artists like Rick Wakeman (YES); Jeff Downs; Tony Kaye; Alan Parsons (The Alan Parsons Project), who produced Dark Side of the Moon (Pink Floyd); Steve Morris (The Dixie Dreggs/Deep Purple); and Steve Hackett (Genesis), as well as many others. It’s an album I’m very proud of, and it was released on November 6, 2015.” Sherwood’s album, Divided by One, has been released on CD for the first time, and there’s also another album out called The Collection. Sherwood says, “It contains a selection of songs, one from each of my seven solo albums. So, that gives you a taste of my catalog over one CD.” Of YES, he says, “With what’s going on right now (the continuous touring) and with us just recovering from the shock of losing Chris, there’s no new music planned for the immediate future.” New music or not, YES is deserving of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recognition, and Billy Sherwood, with the revolving door swinging from the past to the present, has earned the right to be on that stage with them.

Billy Sherwood’s records are available at www.amazon. com or direct from the distributor. YES’ records can be purchased pretty much everywhere Rock and Roll music is sold. Check out Billy at www.billysherwoodhq.com/ and YES at www.yesworld.com/.

MUSIC

BRAUNINGER SEAMLESSLY BLENDING THE BLUES AND JAZZ IN SONG WRITTEN BY STAFF WRITER

F

or Brauninger, music comes naturally. Even as a child writing and composing her original songs, this “Bronzie Girl,” as some know her, captures a wonderful Country Blues and Jazz style. Brauninger McDaniel and her band currently perform in popular Nashville-area nightclubs such as BB Kings and the Hard Rock Cafe, as well as venues in her hometown of Hendersonville, with plans to eventually tour the US. Her musical collaborators include guitarist/ vocalist Roger Zimish and drummer Mark Panek.

“I grew up in a family where my parents, aunts, and uncles all played instruments and sang. They were members of our church’s praise and worship,” says the pretty blond-haired, blue-eyed musician. “Of course, being from Baton Rouge was also a plus. When I was nine-years-old, my Uncle Erman, who I looked up to, took some time out of his busy schedule to show me how to play piano. My uncle was a great Blues singer and fiddle player; he played many venues in New Orleans. He would tell me how to just listen to the sound of the keys. So, I would sit for hours and just listen to each key and how they would complement each other. I have always felt that God gave me a great gift and that I needed to share it with everyone.” www.brauningermcdaniel.com

Brauninger, who describes her music as “a raspy Jazz sound, soulful Blues, easy listening, and pure,” cites greats such as Etta James, as well as BB King, Bonnie Raitt, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sheryl Crow. Living not too far from the Country music capital of Nashville, Brauninger says, “I feel it is a blessing.

There are so many great musicians and writers that you can hook-up with to share stories and ideas for songs. Music City has so many places to perform your music, and not just Country. There are venues that allow other genres to display their talents. Another great attribute is that there are so many record labels here. You never know who might walk in and hear that one song that could make a big difference in your career.”

Regarding her future career aspirations, Brauninger states, “…to make the rounds and start to get my music out there, buildup a band around me, perform at festivals, then get signed to a bigtime label and have a great artist/publishing deal. This would allow me to be out on tour. On the tour, I could visit the world and meet fans and hopefully touch someone’s life through my music. Then, I could start pitching my songs to other artists. I truly love to write music.” www.facebook.com/brauningerfanpage MAY / JUNE 2016 | 21

MOVIES

JOSEPH WARTNERCHANEY

DIRECTING

DECAY WRITTEN BY JESSICA SVENSON

J

oseph Wartnerchaney’s Decay, in theatres and On Demand, focuses on a middle-aged groundskeeper at a local theme park that suffers from a debilitating case of OCD. One day, his daily routine is disrupted by a surprise visitor in his basement: a beautiful young woman who, through a jarring turn of events, ends up dead. Jonathan panics and chooses not to report the dead girl. Instead, he invites her to dinner.

Jonathan is happy to have a friend until the police start closing in, when his mind and the body of the girl begin to decay.

We spoke to Director Wartnerchaney about his horrific masterpiece.

JESSICA SVENSON: Joseph, thanks for chatting.

Excited for the film’s release?

JOSEPH WARTNERCHANEY: Hi…thanks! It’s great to be speaking with you. We are beyond thrilled for the film’s release! This has always been a passion project for the team, so we are over the moon at the opportunity for audiences to see it on the big screen!

24 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

SVENSON: It’s getting a fairly wide release, I believe?

WARTNERCHANEY: It’s getting a huge release on VOD and a limited theatrical release. I couldn’t be more tickled.

SVENSON: I don’t want to say it’s a horror film, because it’s much more… How would you pitch it?

WARTNERCHANEY: Thank you for saying that! I wouldn’t classify it as horror either. The best I’ve come up with is psychological thriller, but even that isn’t quite right. It’s a quirky movie that doesn’t follow a lot of rules. When we set out to make this movie, a close friend challenged me not to just make another “genre horror” movie, but to take some risks and try new stuff.

SVENSON: I can’t think of any film like it. Can you?

WARTNERCHANEY: We pulled references from a ton of movies. I love film and am a huge comparables guy. Very few of the movies the team and I screened were true horror movies. Many were non-traditionallypaced dramas.

MOVIES

One of the composers, Michael Shaieb, put it perfectly when he saw an early draft of the script. He said the story, at its heart, is about a dog who finds a dead bird.

The dog doesn’t know what to do with the bird, but still treasures it and takes extremely good care of it.

SVENSON: The screenplay is based on real events. Did you change the names and tweak the incident, or is this all play-by-play what happened?

WARTNERCHANEY: I did take liberties with the story. When we researched the actual events and I spoke with people who were familiar with what happened, the story played more to me like an urban legend, and that’s how I treated it in the movie. I like imagining what the circumstances would need to be for an incident like this to happen. I was also fascinated with trying to get people to empathize with the main character, Jonathan, even though he’s doing something really gross. That took a lot of writing pre-camera and a lot of finessing in the edit process. We kept exploring new ideas, not only in drafts, but also on the set while we were shooting and throughout the post process. It really was an incredible and exciting environment to be surrounded by.

SVENSON: How did you know about the real event?

WARTNERCHANEY: I was visiting some friends in Detroit, and we were exploring some abandoned buildings around the city. She is a bit of a history buff on the city and kept telling me urban legends about the buildings we were in. Then, towards the end of the day when we were driving home, she offhandedly pointed to a suburban landscape and mentioned the story that Decay came to be based upon. For me, there is just as much horror in the squeaky-clean suburbs when you think about who might be living next to you and what they might be doing behind closed doors.

SVENSON: Did you have to get permission from anyone to do the film?

WARTNERCHANEY: We didn’t. We based enough of the story on news articles, urban legends that have been passed down, and our own imagination. Though this movie is very firmly based on a true story, what we ended up with is very much our own. I will say that the actual story is far more gruesome and disturbing than what we tell. I always wanted to put the focus on feeling love and sympathy for the person you wouldn’t expect to give it to…not the dead young woman, but instead the man who is “keeping” her.

SVENSON: The locations… Are they the same locations where the real incident occurred?

WARTNERCHANEY: We purposely shot it in a very nondescript location. The thought process was that we wanted everyone to feel this could be your town. This could be happening in your neighborhood. We all have seen that person around who keeps to themselves. I want everyone to wonder, “What could be going on in there?”

SVENSON: The film has been playing festivals. Would you say that’s almost a prerequisite now for indie films?

WARTNERCHANEY: I think for some movies it is. For us, we were lucky and met our wonderful distributor, Uncork’d, early on. They have been a real champion of this movie, and they “got it” and what we are trying to do from their very first viewing. We’ve been lucky enough to screen the movie at two festivals so far, and it was an amazing experience! I hope that I will get to do more fests for my next movie!

SVENSON: What do you think audiences will take away from the film?

WARTNERCHANEY: I would love for the audience to come away with a feeling of what it means to be lonely and yearn for companionship and to experience the pain of first love.

Decay is in theatres and on VOD April 8th.

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 25

MOVIES

SHELBY YOUNG WRITTEN BY JESSICA SVENSON

26 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

MOVIES

S

helby Young returns to the screen in A Haunting in Cawdor, Director Phil Wurtzel’s unyieldingly original and rather spooky take on Shakespeare’s classic Macbeth.

JESSICA SVENSON: You don’t come from the country, but you aren’t originally from California are you? Where were you from initially?

SHELBY YOUNG: I’m originally from Florida…

Boca Raton, Florida, to be exact. And I did live with my grandparents for a while at their country club (super different than the actual countryside, I know…I’m just trying to fit in), while splitting time between Florida and New York.

SVENSON: What was the motivation in moving to Hollywood? Was it work related?

YOUNG: Yep. I’d already been spending half of my year in Florida and half in New York for work. Originally, my mother and I decided on New York, because as a kid, I was very passionate about theater, but after booking some indie films, I realized what I loved most was film/ television. My agents suggested we give Hollywood a try, and now, I’ve been living here for ten years!

SVENSON: When did you know you wanted to be an actress?

YOUNG: Ever since I could speak. I’ve always been a ham in front of the camera. I begged my mom to let me act before I really even understood what acting was all

about. I loved playing pretend, and acting is basically getting paid to do that.

SVENSON: Do you remember the first time you got to perform? Was it at school?

YOUNG: I wish I really remembered my first commercial. There are things that are either very faded memories, or I’ve just heard the stories so many times that I fabricated them. But I started booking commercials pretty regularly around the age of four and five. Although, I do actually remember my first school play. I played a “Jelly and Jam Peddler” and got to enter through the audience offering my delicious products. “Blackberry jam for the blacksmith,” is the only actual line I remember.

SVENSON: And what about the first time you got paid to do it?

YOUNG: Aside from those commercials, my first television role was when I was around eight or nine. I played a little pageant girl named Sue Anne Butler on the Showtime show Going to California, which turned out to be a very fitting title for my life’s plan.

SVENSON: Did you frame that check?

YOUNG: Ha, no! I didn’t even understand the concept of money at that point. My mom put it away for me for when I was older.

SVENSON: What do you consider your big break?

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 27

MOVIES

I look at every project as an amazing opportunity and stepping stone for my career. The more you film, the more your name gets around, be-it amongst fans or casting directors in town.

YOUNG: I look at every project as an amazing opportunity and stepping stone for my career. The more you film, the more your name gets around, be-it amongst fans or casting directors in town. As far as what project has garnered me the most in terms of press and fan base, that would have to be American Horror Story. I recurred on the first season as Leah, a bully turned bible-thumping frenemy of my real life friend Taissa Farming’s character, Violet. I’m so thankful to that set for giving my career a big boost, getting me started on a fun horror-project streak, and introducing me to some wonderful, hopefully lifelong friends.

SVENSON: Was it a quick shoot, like most indies, or did you have time to actually get to know your co-stars before shooting?

SVENSON: I imagine American Horror Story would’ve opened a lot of doors?

SVENSON: And that theatre in the movie is a real theatre, I believe?

YOUNG: Yes, it absolutely did! There was and still is so much buzz surrounding that show. Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk were such a pleasure to work with, and they’re freaking geniuses. Everything they touch becomes a hit. That set was just incredible.

YOUNG: Yes, it is indeed! It’s called The Barn Theatre.

Most of the other young actors in the cast have performed or are still performing at that theatre! I’m not convinced it isn’t haunted.

SVENSON: Is that how you got the gig in A Haunting in Cawdor?

YOUNG: I’m sure my work on that show had something to do with it, along with my other past works, and then luck and great timing…that whole perfect storm.

SVENSON: Did they come to you, or did you go to them? How did that work?

YOUNG: They came to me, actually! I was offered the role of Vivian the night before flying out to Michigan to film. It was a crazy fast turnaround.

28 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

YOUNG: It was a pretty speedy shoot. We filmed for about two and a half weeks, I believe. My co-stars, Cary Elwes and Michael Welch, were so amazingly warm that I still did get to form friendships with both. With Cary, it was more of a mentorship than anything. Watching him work and learning from him was a blessing. Both he and Michael still keep in touch with me, which I think is so kind. They’re genuinely good people.

SVENSON: Is theatre something you’d like to do more of?

YOUNG: I really do enjoy film/television and voice-over work more than anything right now, but you never know what the future will bring!

SVENSON: Where will A Haunting in Cawdor be playing?

YOUNG: It will have a limited theatre release in ten cities (New York, LA, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas, Denver, Cleveland, San Francisco, and Phoenix) and will also be coming out on VOD, both on March 11th! Make sure to check it out!

Affordable solutions for all your creativity needs.

• • • • • • •

Brochures Magazines Corporate Identity Flyers/e-Mailers Logo Design Promotional Materials T-shirt Design

• Posters • Booklets • Banners • Video Editing • Photography • Photobook and many more!

CELEBRITIES

LORYNN YORK

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS WRITTEN BY JESSICA SVENSON

32 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

CELEBRITIES

F

rom North Carolina to Hollywood, actress and model Lorynn York is turning heads at every corner. We caught up with Tinseltown’s next big thing on the PR tour for her new film, The Carpenter’s Daughter.

JESSICA SVENSON: You’re living in Los Angeles now, I believe, but originally you were from North Carolina.

Is that correct?

LORYNN YORK: Yes. SVENSON: Is your family from that area?

YORK: My family is from Cincinnati, Ohio. We moved from Ohio to North Carolina when I was in high school.

My mom, dad, and sister live in Charlotte, North Carolina.

SVENSON: What do you miss most about home?

YORK: The coast, the warm ocean water, and the BBQ. SVENSON: What pushed you to move to Los Angeles?

YORK: I was always on Backstage and Actors Access. I knew this is where actors really get the chance they need to take off.

SVENSON: Was it hard to initially adapt to the new surroundings?

YORK: It was a little hard at times. At first, I moved in with my cousin who lives out here. He helped me a lot.

SVENSON: What about the audition process? I guess that was much different! Lots of competition in LA? YORK: You are right about the competition. But I tend not to think of it that way anymore. I get countless opportunities to read amazing scripts and work on

I always find ways to relate to my characters.

My character is the bully.

I was somewhat affected by mean girls growing up, so I knew what to do.

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 33

CELEBRITIES

characters that I love. I do the work. I go in the room and perform and have fun. Auditions aren’t about competition. It’s about the performance and showing your interpretation of the character. If they like it… boom. If not, it was fun to play.

SVENSON: What was the first gig you landed in LA? YORK: I booked my first pilot audition! Beginners luck. :) It was for CBS and called Anatomy of Violence. It didn’t get picked up.

SVENSON: Do you think you’ve become a better actress since then?

YORK: Oh, yes. It excites me to know that in five years from now I will be sitting in an interview saying the same thing. I believe an artist never hits a plateau.

SVENSON: What’s been your biggest break?

YORK: Honestly, it was Rosemont on Stars TV by Enderby Entertainment. They introduced me into the world of TV movies.

SVENSON: Tell me about the movie airing on Lifetime this month.

YORK: I love the Lifetime Movie Network. Their material is so relatable. It’s a movie based on the struggles of high school.

SVENSON: Could you relate to the character?

YORK: I always find ways to relate to my characters. My character is the bully. I was somewhat affected by mean girls growing up, so I knew what to do.

SVENSON: You’ve modelled and also done ballet. At any time, did you consider you might pursue modelling or ballet full-time and give acting a miss?

YORK: Never. Once I was introduced to acting, my life changed course.

34 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

CELEBRITIES

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 35

CELEBRITIES

36 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

CELEBRITIES

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 37

WRITTEN BY JOHANNA VAN DER HEYDEN

L

et me introduce myself. My name is Johanna Van Der Heyden. I was born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, where I started my antique collection as a teenager with items passed down through my family. It sparked my interest in collecting antiques by purchasing objects while traveling through Europe, with France being one of my favorite countries.

Thirty years ago, my husband, Ton Van Der Heyden, daughter, Monique, and I decided to immigrate to America and settled in New Jersey. We were fortunate to ship the entire antiques collection to America. In 1985, I opened a Victorian store called Johanna’s Boutique. I

started to design and create Victorian costumes in White Township, New Jersey.

In 2001, I moved the store to Belvidere, New Jersey, and renamed it Johanna’s Boutique Showtime. I continued to create Victorian costumes. The same year, I inherited a grand piano made in 1840 by Broadwood and Sons in London. This inspired me to start presenting monthly musical concerts, offering a variety of talented local and international artists surrounded by the antique collection.

I thank my family for introducing me to the marvelous “Treasures from the Past.”

Bronze Angel We bought the bronze angel at the antique market in Paris, The Pious. It was in 1994. Plenty of antiques there.

However, some items were overpriced, but fortunately, we found an affordable item.

We were in Paris for five days on vacation, and we bought it on the second day. I was excited to take the bronze statue home and make the vacation short, so I could put her in my living room right away.

The nicest part of the bronze statue is that she is called “Refinance.” She carries two coins in her hands, so she never runs out of money. The sculpture is by Moreau.

40 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

SHOWTIME

Beethoven I always wanted to own a bust of Beethoven. He was bought in America in 2003 and found his place on the grand piano that was made in 1840. Broadwood and Sons made pianos with metal frames, and one of them was made for Beethoven. Because of Beethoven’s hearing loss, he was happy with this piano, because he could feel the vibrations of the metal frame. So, Beethoven found his place in Showtime on the grand piano.

Pewter Measuring Cups In the 15th and 16th centuries, people were using pewter for cookware, drinkware, measuring, spoons, and plates in The Netherlands. The cups measured the amounts of drinks in taverns.

These measurements were highly controlled by the government.

It was known that some tavern owners put false bottoms in the measuring cups to cheat the public.

Next to the measuring cups is a pewter decanter with an attached lid. On top are two attached acorns. The meaning of acorns on top of the decanter is that squirrels never eat all their acorns at once, so we could learn from this.

On the left of the pewter items is a plate from 1920 made from porcelain. It was a gift from my grandmother. The picture resembles good times with dance and party…something that my grandmother wished for me.

Alabaster Bust of Lady During one of my travels to Ohio with my husband, Ton, we went to an antique auction. My husband’s eye caught the statue immediately, as he thought it looked a lot like me. So, he started bidding, and he finally got the final bid. Ton carried this heavy bust to the car. What an act of love. The bust was purchased in 1991.

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 41

RECIPES

Chili-Mac Soup

20 MIN Total Time 30 MIN 6 Servings Ingredients • 1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef • 1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup) • 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper • 5 cups hot water • 1 box Hamburger Helper™ chili macaroni • 1 teaspoon chili powder • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt • 2 cups diced tomatoes (from 28-oz can) • 1 can (11 oz) Green Giant™ SteamCrisp® Mexicorn® whole kernel corn with red and green peppers, undrained Directions

1. In 4-quart Dutch oven, cook beef, onion and bell pepper

over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is thoroughly cooked; drain.

2. Stir in hot water, sauce mix (from Hamburger Helper box), chili powder, garlic salt and tomatoes. Heat to boiling, stirring occasionally.

3. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in uncooked pasta (from Hamburger Helper box), corn and olives. Cover; cook 10 minutes longer.

2 tablespoons sliced pitted ripe olives

44 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

RECIPES

Ice Cream filled Chocolate cups topped with fresh strawberries

Ingredients • 5 oz. chocolate almond bark • 5 fresh strawberries • Ice cream, your favorite flavor • 9 foil baking cups Instructions

1. Melt 5 oz. chocolate almond bark in the microwave until 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

softened.

Spoon a spoonful of the melted chocolate coating into each of the 9 foil baking cups Brush coating evenly over the sides and bottoms of the cups.

Place cups on parchment or wax paper.

Chill cups until hardened.

Once cups have hardened, remove foil.

Fill cups with your favorite ice cream.

Serve and enjoy!

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 45

RECIPES

Sassy Sloppy Joes

Prep Time 10 MIN Total Time 35 MIN Servings 6 Ingredients • 1 pound lean ground beef • 1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup) • 1/3 cup chopped celery stalk • 1/3 cup chopped green bell pepper • 1/3 cup ketchup • 1/4 cup water • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper sauce • 6 hamburger buns, split and toasted Directions 1. Cook beef and onion in 10-inch skillet over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is brown; drain. Stir in remaining ingredients except buns.

2. Cover and cook over low heat 10 to 15 minutes or just until vegetables are tender. Fill buns with mixture.

46 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

RECIPES

Tropical Fruit Cocktail Salad

Dump five ingredients together and you have a delicious Tropical Fruit Cocktail Salad, that everyone loves. Add some maraschino cherries, and we have a party!

Author: Hostess At Heart Ingredients • 1 medium can crushed pineapple, don’t drain • 1 can Dole Tropical Fruit Cocktail, don’t drain (chop in smaller pieces if desired) • 1 box of instant lemon pudding (can also use vanilla or coconut) • 2 cups marshmallows • 1 carton Cool Whip (I used Cool Whip Free) • Maraschino cherries, coconut optional Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate.

2. Chill at least 30 minutes.

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 47

RECIPES

Mexican Wedding Cookies

48 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE

Ingredients • 1 cup butter, softened • 1 tsp. vanilla • 1/2 C powdered sugar • 1/4 tsp. salt • 2 C all-purpose flour • powdered sugar (to roll the cookies in) Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Whip the butter and vanilla together.

3. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar; 4. mix in the salt and flour.

5. Pinch off small pieces of dough; place on ungreased cookie sheet.

6. Bake for 11-13 minutes; slightly brown around the edges.

7. Immediately remove from cookie sheet and cool on a wire rack.

8. Before serving, roll in powdered sugar.

RECIPES

Rolled Buttercream Fondant

“Great rolled fondant recipe for cakes or cookies. Tastes like buttercream frosting.”

Ingredients • 10 m 45 servings 140 cals • 1 cup light corn syrup • 1 cup shortening • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract • 2 pounds confectioners’ sugar Directions

1. Prep 10 m 2. Ready In 10 m 3. In a large bowl, stir together the shortening and corn

syrup. Mix in the salt and vanilla flavoring, then gradually mix in the confectioners’ sugar until it is a stiff dough. If you are using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment. Otherwise, knead by hand.

If the dough is sticky, knead in more confectioners’ sugar until it is smooth. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

4. To use, roll out on a clean surface that has been dusted with confectioners’ sugar until it is 1/8 inch thick or thinner if you can. Drape over frosted and chilled cakes and smooth the sides down, or cut into strips to make bows and other decorations.

MAY / JUNE 2016 | 49

RECIPES

Quick Pour Chocolate Fondant Recipe by: MARCIAMOLINA

“This is a great Chocolate Fondant recipe.

Pour over the top of cakes or cupcakes to make a perfectly smooth and glossy surface.

Excess fondant can be stored, tightly covered, in refrigerator for weeks.

Reheat to use again.”

Ingredients • 1 h 16 servings 217 ca.

• 6 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted • 5 fluid ounces water • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup • 3 (1 ounce) squares unsweetened chocolate, chopped • 1 teaspoon almond extract • Add all ingredients to list’ Directions 1. Prep 20 m 2. Cook 30 m 3. Ready In 1h 4. In a saucepan, combine confectioners’ sugar, water and corn syrup.

5. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches a temperature of 92 degrees F (33 degrees C.) 6. Remove from heat and stir in chopped chocolate and almond extract until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth.

50 | CITY TO COUNTRY MAGAZINE