Celebrating Diversity In The Entertainment Industry
®
VIRTUAL ART GALLERY
Launched by Voice of Special Abled Person
CHARLETTA LOUIS Next Amazing Thing BEDSIDE READING HW’s Favorite Authors JOHN DAVID SNYDER & NIKI SHADROW SNYDER
Carmelita Pittman The Social Butterfly
FOUNDERS OF PROJECT POP DROP
Photo Credit: Jayme Sanford Torres
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR W
elcome readers to a wonderful Issue of Hollywood Weekly. On our cover is a true renaissance woman we all love. I’m talking about Ms. Carmelita Pittman the fine artist. Ms. Pittman the preforming artist. Ms. Pittman the composer, producer, dancer and writer. Carmelita has a burning love and desire to express herself artistically and heal this world. You can see why Ms. Pittman perfectly aligns with the goals of Hollywood Weekly. What makes Carmelita’s story so powerful is her intense need to give back because of what her parents gave her -- specifically her Mother who sent her to USC. In fact, the spirit and love of Carmelita’s Mother is all through her inspiring layout. The paintings you will see in Carmelita’s layout were created by Carmelita -- you will be impressed. We’re so happy to use HW as a vehicle for Carmelita to spread her message of love to the world. AHollywood Weekly Magazine is honoured to pay special tribute to Dr.S.S.Sidhu for his outstanding contribution to the Aviation Sector not only in India but also in the International Civil Aviation. He has had an illustrious career and with impeccable conduct as a leader and a true son of India. Special thanks to Mr. Raman Sidhu, CEO, European Business Group for sharing the photographs and also is the son of Dr.S.S.Sidhu . A special official tribute to Dr.S.S.Sidhu will take place in New Delhi in the month of March 2021 . Ms. Rosy Ahluwalia , Founder ,Dikha Khadi, a pioneer to promote khadi worldwide, will also join in to pay tribute to Dr.Sidhu . The Chief Guest will be Hon’ble Mr.Hardeep Puri, The Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation and also Minister of Urban Development ,Government of India to bestow special honours to Dr Sidhu to promote the Aviation Sector and an inspiration to every Indian. As always we thank you, our readers. We are who we are because of you...
PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF Prather Jackson VICE PRESIDENT Bernice Harris Michael D. Coxson SENIOR BOOK CURATOR Jane Ubell-Meyer ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anthony Ewart MARKETING & SALES Launy Rhem CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anthony Ewart Alex A. Kecskes Jenny Werth Ike Sinha GRAPHIC DESIGNER Denise Chavez ILLUSTRATOR/ DIGITAL MEDIA Jonathan Clark INNOVATION EDITOR@LARGE Jaymes Hines AFRICA OPERATIONS Meredith Beal, Africa Editor meredith@lastingvalue.com Kenya +254.715.508.964 USA +1.512.537.2116 UK +44.7700.083.475 Gambia +220.297.6482 BRAZIL OPERATIONS Fabio Glingani Rico@lapenda.net (310) 567-3333
Anthony Ewart Associate Editor
INDIA OPERATION Ike Sinha Country Director Art4Peace Awards Hollywood Weekly Magazine B1/1565 Vasantkunj New Delhi-110 070 Mobile +919599068592 ASIA OPERATION Bench Bello HWM Asia Operations hollywoodmagazineusa@gmail.com Mobile +639273895559
ORCHID OF MANIPUR -” UREI “ AERIDOVANDA SHIV SIDHU - NAMED IN HONOUR OF SHIVENDER SINGH SIDHU,
DISTRIBUTORS CoMag MADER NEWS
FORMER GOVERNOR OF MANIPUR, IT IS A CROSS BETWEEN AERIDES ODORATA AND VANDA MOTESIANI (ERSTWHILE STANGEANA)
Call: (424)371-9900 2 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
@ HOLLYWOODWEEKLY
Email: HollywoodWeekly@gmail.com
@ HOLLYWOODWEEKLY
®
4 BEDSIDE READING 10 JOHN AND NIKI 14 VIRTUAL CHOIR FESTIVAL 18 MR. RAMAN SIDHU 24 VIRTUAL ART GALLERY 28 50 ANNIVERSARY 32 CHARLETTA LOUIS 34 CARMELITA PITTMAN The Social Butterfly
HW’s Favorite Authors The Givefluencers The KC Lights
CEO, EBG Federation
Voice of Special Abled Person TH
India-Pakistan War
Next Amazing Thing
Carmelita Pittman, crowned Ms Elegance USA International Woman of Achievement on the Queen Mary title holder 2017-2018 also was invited by Princess Karen Cantrell to become a member of the Royal Society of St. George under the auspices of Queen Elizabeth and approved by the United Kingdom. Photo by Jayme Sanford Torres
HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY IS A PUBLICATION WHOLLY OWNED BY PRATHER JACKSON HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY MAGAZINE LLC. © 2020 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION OF ANY CONTENT WITHOUT PERMISSSIONWHOLLY OF THE OWNED PUBLISHER HOLLYWOOD WEEKLYWRITTEN IS A PUBLICATION BY ISPRATHER EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR MAYLLC.BE JACKSON HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY MAGAZINE SENT TO: PRATHER@HOLLYWOODWEEKLYMAGAZINE.COM. © 2020 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION OF ANY 8345 RESEDA BLVD #117, NORTHRIDGE, CA 91324. FORPUBLISHER IS CONTENT WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSSION OF THE ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CALL: (424) 371-9900 EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR MAY BE SENT TO: PRATHER@HOLLYWOODWEEKLYMAGAZINE.COM. 8345 RESEDA BLVD #117, NORTHRIDGE, CA 91324. FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CALL: (424) 371-9900 HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 3
Carmelita Pittman The Social Butterfly
Self portrait oil painting/ collage 18X24 / by Carmelita Pittman
BY CARMELITA PITTMAN
B
eing very shy as a child I would run and hide behind the furniture when visitors arrived in our home, I eventually outgrew that phase. I always admired those who were socially connected and prominent in stature, even as a youngster when I saw people like class mate Nettie Douglas in the 4th grade who was beautiful and popular. That was not me. I was in the shadows. But I had a leaning towards being religious. I was taught in Catechism class to pray the rosary regularly no matter where , even on the bus. About eleven years of age, taking that lesson to heart, I sat on a bench minding my own business praying the rosary during recess one day. The next thing I knew a crowd was gathering to watch me pray. The crowd began to grow and youngsters were even climbing up on the chain link fence above my head to see me. The growing crowd pushed me against the fence while they tried to get a better view. Some were running across the school yard because they thought there was a fight going on. But it was just me, praying. When I finished I stood up to the curious or mockers for my belief. Now it is dangerous in certain places in the world where
4 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Christians are in danger of losing their lives for their faith. But there is a saying that if you deny God, you will be denied when the time comes. And when the time comes I want to hear, "Well done my servant". That will be the greatest award of all. I am only two years away from the age that my mother was when her life was claimed by breast cancer. Because my mother sacrificed her own life so mine could be better I have remained in perpetual gratitude to her. On a secretary's salary she put me through one of the most prestigious universities in the United States of America, the University of Southern California ,USC. My mother, Juanita Zara Espinosa Uddin and my friend from England, Basil Swift, a writer for whom I worked for awhile, both insisted that I attend the reception at USC Fisher Art Gallery. I could not understand what was so urgent about me being there. Lo and behold to my surprise my art professors presented me the Ross, Spayne Perry art award which also included an art scholarship for a semester at USC. What a blessing. That was part of the pattern I became accustomed to. Beginning in elementary school I
Lady of Humanity photo and title named by Pasqual Bettio FRPS, recipient of Humanitarian of the Year award, 2010 Civic Leader 2011 Entertainer of the Year 2014 from the Southern California Motion Picture Council became the class artist , then was selected to represent the Jr. High in the 8th grade when I was sent to Otis Art Institute to study under noted artist Joe Magnani. At Otis Art Institute I later met Charles White, famed American artist of African descent who wanted me to be an artist model for his class. I was honored but did not accept the invitation.
transported the winners of the Bicentennial art contest who placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd to pick up their awards in the only gold limousine in town at the time. Our client, Smokey Robinson, had used the limousine the day before when he did a concert with Stevie Wonder , Teena Marie and Pattie LaBelle, all household names.
Also L.A. High School selected me to represent the school during a Theatrical workshop at Hollywood High School. I started out working on the sets for the performances , then switched to dancing but wound up singing "Tonight" from Westside Story with the orchestra, all made up of students who were selected for their musical ability. That production was the grand finale in the auditorium attended by the community.
My journey alongside figures of note began early as a youngster when I watched my mother and step-father Shiraj Uddin, become hosts to prominent guests such as the Ambassador of India in our large home near Berkeley Square. My mother became a member of American wives of India and at age 9 or so I learned how to dance Hindu Manipuri style from famed dancer Bhupesh Guha , a good friend of my step-father who wanted to give me a scholarship when I became a young adult but I declined in order to pursue teaching school. Later I would perform that dance in a movie entitled "Brando Unauthorized" about Marlon Brando starring Damian Chapa produced by Peter Allman. I also sang in the Bengali language which was recognized by the observers who witnessed my performance of that dance on the borderline of Pakistan,
Little did I know this would form the foundation of my creative life as an adult. In turn after being awarded so many times I became an award winning art educator for L.A. Unified School District leading my students to honors and art scholarships. At one time Pittman Limousine service co-owned with my husband, Jerry Pittman,
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 5
paintings by Carmelita Pittman
Tree of Life. Created at Artists for a Better World art festival on a blank canvas
Redd Foxx portrait oil painting 18x24. seen on his interview on Robin Leach Rich and Famous tv show
the country of origin of my step father. That location was part of my trip sponsored by my mother along the Marco Polo silk route in China where I was amongst the first Americans to visit remote parts. A globe trotter , I taught the Mongolian soldiers how to rap when I was Ms C Rappin' Pittman, the Rapping School Teacher. Recordings including the School of Cool and my husband's production of me singing "Rosebud" and "Isn't it Lonely". all made the top 40 charts. Two of those recordings are now rare collectibles in Northern England, Australia, Japan and fetched as much as $2,000.00 per vinyl single by avid collectors. My status as a fine and performing artist, composer, producer, dancer , actress expanded over the years with several credits. I stayed the course as a supporter and committee member of Vonny Hilton Sweeney's Pre-Grammy Music Industry celebrations since the 80's. 1998 I sponsored and chaired the event at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel which attracted attendance of at least 1,000 in black tie and elegant gowns and flashy outfits. I was invited the 3rd year on the production and participated all 23 years which were a launching pad for the "sung and unsung heroes" as Vonny used to say. Grammy nominees and aspiring 6 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Dionne. Warwick portrait oil painting 18 x24
talent were in attendance. She taught me how to walk on faith. Our events grew a reputation nationwide and hosted and awarded many household names. I had to stay strong however when my mom was preparing to make her transition and graduated from the planet Nov 16, 1997. Because my mother loved roses and because of her dream of the mythological Phoenix Bird which became the name of "Phoenix Rising Antiques and Art" shop in the Antiquaries building near Doheny, I used both symbols to represent The Rose Breast Cancer Society. The organization is arts based and is a 501.c3 non-profit which has produced several "Rose Variety Art Shows", all themed events which have blended the Fine and Performing Arts with the Wellness Community. It has served "EDU-tainment", a word I coined to present an Art & Wellness Expo in inspiring locations. The 14th Rose Variety Arts Show was presented on six and a half acres on the grounds of the Virginia Robinson Gardens just North of the Beverly Hills Hotel. I believe these have occurred with the guidance of my mom from above. Each one have been mini miracles. Dr. Cherilyn Lee who I met in our little shop was introduced to me by Loray White, Sammy Davis's first wife. Dr. Lee has since become a top Honorary member of several years and keynote speaker of the organization.
Juanita Zara Espinosa Uddin on the cover of the 14th Rose Variety Arts Show souvenir booklet
Still life painting as a demonstration partially painted in front of art students in the classroom.
Katrina Hope painted following the hurricane in Louisiana to portray hope following disaster. Oil on canvas 30 x40
Portrait of Juanita Zara Espinosa Uddin. 18x24 oil painting/ collage of roses from her garden and gold leaf
Portrait of Michael Jackson oil painting/ collage 30 x40 Carmelita Pittman standing with Michael Bush designer of Michael Jackson’s military style HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 7
Seen in the photos are samples of my art as well as the beginnings of the Gardens of Life/ Alley-O-Graphy mural started 2015. Senior Senator Pasqual Bettio FRPS and Debora Gillman co-founded ARTery USA and are associates of the project sponsored by The Rose Breast Cancer Society which is being developed by talented artists such as Katherine Arion of Romania, Emmy Lu of Uganda and Armand Michael Sears Jr.. On the line-up to join the project is Gustavo Vasquez and others. As art director and visual artist I have also put my hand into the project and will return to it as soon as I complete my next portrait. There is scientific evidence that the arts can heal. Currently the Mid-City neighborhood and Longwood Conveslescent Hospital where the mural is developing in the alley are enjoying the fruits of our labor and have expressed deep appreciation and respect for the project. Please consider contributing to the cause. www.rosebreastcancersociety.org. My journey has been long but space here short so may the accompanying photos help describe my journey. As a talk show host of Carmelita's Corner on http://www. ezwaybroadcasting.com since 2016 I invite you to tune in Monday mornings to hear my wonderful guests which have also included household names. The topics are varied and meant to inform , inspire, and entertain. My show is a segment of Radio Boomers Live hosted by Jim Zuley and Reatha Grey of Betty White's Off Your Rocker. which airs 10:00 a.m. pst. http://www.ezwayradio.com iHeart radio.
Presentation of check from The Rose Breast Cancer Society at Eric Zuley’s birthday event in Anaheim. Photo by Doug Ferguson
Gardens of Life/ Alley -O-Graphy mural
By Katherine Arion of Romania “Pasqualized” with mirrors by Pasqual seen here with appreciative neighborhood children. Photo by Tom Porter
By Armand Michael Sears Jr. Photo by Tom Porter 8 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
By Emmy Lu of Uganda. Photo by Tom Porter
Victorian Interiors co-owned Iron Eyes Cody and Juanita with Marlynn Northcutt in Zara Espinosa Uddin the Antiquarius building
Elaine Young’s wedding. Elaine’s book, a million dollars down tells the story of her days as a premiere realtor of Beverly Hills with clients like Elizabeth Taylor, Elvis Presley, tragically OJ Simpson, Nicolle Simpson and Sharon Tate. Seen next to Elaine is her husband Sal Valachi on the right is mom and I.
Janeese Bland Johnson of Chicago at the Phoenix Rising Antiques and Art shop in the Antiquaries building between Doheny and Robertson
Princess Karen Cantrell with Carmelita Pittman at the Royal Society’ of St. George event at the Peninsula Hotel, Beverly Hills. Photo by Ralph Jarrells
Sammy Davis’s first wife Loray White introduced me to Dr. Cherilyn Lee who became a close friend and top Honorary member of The Rose Breast Cancer Society
Member of the http://www.ezwaywalloffame.com and contributing author of the best seller The Influence Effect. Please visit http://ericzuley.com/book
On March 8th, 2020, Carmelita Pittman received an award from the International Woman’s Day event which was produced by Natalya Korol and Lana Gutman. HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 9
Hollywood Weekly - Page Turners 2021 is here! As we ring in the new year, invest in inspiring stories, made available through Bedside Reading on the download at our luxury hotels partners: Acqualina Resort & Residences; Conrad New York Downtown; The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows; Waldorf Astoria Chicago; The Pierre New York, A Taj Hotel; The Meritage Resort and Spa; Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa; Paséa Hotel & Spa; Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort; Vista Collina Resort; The Dream Inn; The Jacquard; Morrison House; Limelight Hotel, Aspen; Limelight Hotel, Snowmass; and Limelight Hotel, Ketchum. Make sure you’re following @BedsideReading on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn for your daily dose of book candy all year long!
BedsideReading.com
Notes of Love and War by Betty Bolte Audrey Harper needs more than home and hearth to satisfy her self-worth despite being raised with the idea that a woman’s place is in the home. Working as a music critic for the city newspaper in Baltimore, Maryland, during the Second World War, she’s enjoyed both financial freedom and personal satisfaction in a job well done. When she uncovers evidence of German spies working to sabotage a secret bomber plane being manufactured in her beloved city, she must choose between her sense of duty to protect her city and the urgings of her boss, her family, and her fiancé to turn over her evidence to the authorities. But when her choices lead her and her sister into danger, she is forced to risk life and limb to save her sister and bring the spies to justice. Set against the backdrop of the flourishing musical community during the 1940s in Baltimore, Notes of Love and War weaves together the pleasure of musical performance with the dangers of espionage and spying.
AU T H O R Q & A : B E T T Y B O LT E Bolte discusses inspiration, family, and discovery HW: What inspired you to write Notes of Love and War? BB: The wartime and post-WWII correspondence between my parents provided a framework for the fictional story set in my hometown of Baltimore, Maryland. 10 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
HW: Is this your parents’ story then? BB: No, although I did draw on their concerns and experiences to create the characters.
Deli, mentioned in the story, has continued to operate in the city since before WWII. I even visited and enjoyed lunch there with my husband and dear friends.
HW: Why did you set the story in Baltimore? BB: Two reasons. My mother’s family has lived in that area for generations. And I’ve always wanted to write a story set in my home state of Maryland.
HW: Any other fun or interesting discoveries? BB: One emotional one comes to mind. My friends and husband went with me to the Baltimore Streetcar Museum where we rode on a 1940s era streetcar. On a section of track my grandfather would have ridden on to get home. It suddenly occurred to me I might be riding on a streetcar my family used to ride, too. I got chills!
HW: Did you learn anything surprising while writing or researching for the story? BB: I was surprised to learn that Attman’s
Sunrise in Florence by Kathleen Reid We all have dreams and sometimes they lead to the most amazing discoveries... Rose Maning longs to wake up every morning in Florence, Italy, to a view of the Duomo and terra cotta rooftops dancing in the sunrise. So she flies across the pond with her best friend Zoey for a fun-filled house hunt. For the first time in her people-pleasing life, schoolteacher Rose uses her savings to do exactly what she wants to do: buy an apartment and pursue painting. Rose is passionate about the life and works of the great sculptor, Michelangelo or “Il Divino,” (The Divine One). She experiences her own personal renaissance abroad as she embraces everything Italian. She meets Lyon, who is sophisticated and adventurous, challenging her to see herself in a new light. A mysterious discovery changes Rose’s destiny by revealing the character of the men in her life. Does Rose find something that will alter art history as we know it today?
ART AS INSPIRATION
Author Kathleen Reid talks Italy, Fine Art & Adventure HW: Are you an artist? KR: I would call myself an art enthusiast. Michelangelo is the real star of my book, Sunrise in Florence. When I stood in the Sistine Chapel and saw the Creation of Adam panel, I was captivated, so I spent years researching. Michelangelo’s rendering of God’s hand touching Adams is one of the most iconic images of our time. E.T was the first blockbuster to officially parody the image, then came movies like Bruce Almighty or Rocky Horror Picture Show. In my book, I ask the question: What if Michelangelo had drawn the hands clasped instead of God’s finger touching Adam’s?
HW: Does the mystery in Sunrise in Florence have any truth? KR: Yes. As a matter of fact, I was worried that my original idea was too far-fetched until it really happened. A man by the name of Robert Simon found a lost Leonardo da Vinci, Salvator Mundi, at an auction. The painting ultimately sold for $450 million dollars in 2017.
dream. Passionate about the life and works of Michelangelo, she buys an apartment and falls in love. A discovery reveals the character of the men in her life. Right now, Sunrise in Florence allows readers to experience Italy virtually- a film would add another dimension.
HW: Do you see your novel as a movie? KR: Absolutely! Everyone wants to be transported these days by a romantic adventure. Imagine Florence’s amber rooftops and a beautiful young schoolteacher named Rose who follows her
Are you Essential?: Simple Secrets to unlocking your True Potential, Releasing the past & tapping into your Passion & Purpose! By Cindy Hope Are you tired of being among the 85% of people that feel they aren’t good enough? If you ever think to yourself: *Why does this keep happening to me? *I’ve been through so much, and it ruined my life. *Maybe I just don’t deserve real love, everything always falls apart. …then it’s time to finally let go and free yourself. Through real-life experiences, blending humor, honesty, science, and wisdom that helped her overcome these very thoughts and feelings, Cindy Hope gives you simple and straightforward strategies to help you stop drowning in fear, despair, stress, and anxiety to become the best version of yourself today. Using inspiring stories, learn: • How to find the source of your limiting beliefs and get rid of them once and for all • Why your subconscious mind sabotages your every effort, and you fail desperately each time you try to change
• How to finally overcome these feelings, stick to the process, and ultimately change your life • The secret to finding your purpose in life, controlling your thoughts and stop negativity. … and so much more. You don’t have to keep sitting there wondering what your life could look like. Your dreams don’t have to be dreams--they can become your reality with just a few small tweaks. Success and abundance are the results of intentional focus set upon building yourself a better life and, with the right tools and techniques at your disposal, you can begin to acquire this in just minutes a day. HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 11
The Tenant by Katrine Engberg An electrifying work of literary suspense from internationally bestselling author Katrine Engberg, The Tenant—heralded as a “stunning debut” by #1 New York Times bestselling author Kathy Reichs—follows two Copenhagen police detectives struggling to solve a shocking murder and stop a killer hell-bent on revenge. When a young woman is discovered brutally murdered in her own apartment with an intricate pattern of lines carved into her face, Copenhagen police detectives Jeppe Korner and Anette Werner are assigned to the case. In short order, they establish a link between the victim, Julie Stender, and her landlady, Esther de Laurenti, who’s a bit too fond of drink and the host of raucous dinner parties with her artist friends. Esther also turns out to be a budding novelist—and when Julie turns up as a murder victim in the still-unfinished mystery she’s writing, the link between fiction and real life grows both more urgent and more dangerous. But Esther’s role in this twisted scenario is not quite as clear as it first seems. Is she the culprit or just another victim, trapped in a twisted game of vengeance? Anette and Jeppe must dig more deeply into the two women’s pasts to discover the identity of the brutal puppet-master pulling the strings. Evocative and original, The Tenant promises “dark family secrets—and a smorgasbord of surprises” (People).
Fortune and Glory by Janet Evanovich This isn’t just the biggest case of Stephanie Plum’s career. It’s the adventure of a lifetime. When Stephanie’s beloved Grandma Mazur’s new husband died on their wedding night, the only thing he left her was a beat-up old easy chair…and the keys to a life-changing fortune. But as Stephanie and Grandma Mazur search for Jimmy Rosolli’s treasure, they discover that they’re not the only ones on the hunt. Two dangerous enemies from the past stand in their way—along with a new adversary who’s even more formidable: Gabriela Rose, a dark-eyed beauty from Little Havana with a taste for designer clothes. She’s also a soldier of fortune, a gourmet cook, an expert in firearms and mixed martial arts—and someone who’s about to give Stephanie a real run for her money. Stephanie may be in over her head, but she’s got two things that Gabriela doesn’t: an unbreakable bond with her family and a stubborn streak that will never let her quit. She’ll need both to survive because this search for “fortune and glory” will turn into a desperate race against time with more on the line than ever before. Because even as she searches for the treasure and fights to protect her Grandma Mazur, her own deepest feelings will be tested—as Stephanie could finally be forced to choose between Joe Morelli and Ranger.
Blind Vigil by Matt Coyle
12 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Blinded by a gunshot wound to the face while working as a private investigator nine months ago, Rick Cahill is now sure of only one thing: he has to start a new life and leave his old one behind. He’s still trying to figure out what that life is when his onetime partner, Moira MacFarlane, asks for his help on a case she’s taken for Rick’s former best friend. The case is simple and Moira only needs Rick for one interview, but Rick is wary of waking sleeping demons. Ultimately, he goes against his gut and takes the case which quickly turns deadly. Rick’s old compulsion of finding the truth no matter the cost—the same compulsion that cost him his eyesight and almost his life—battles against his desire to escape his past. The stakes are raised when Rick’s friend is implicated in murder and needs his help. Can he help the friend he no longer trusts while questioning his own lessened capabilities? His life depends on the answer as a shadowy killer lurks in the darkness.
Success Reloaded by Masha Ibeschitz Today, career planning focuses on the individual as a whole - or it runs the risk of failing in the long run. The next generation of executives does not merely want to function within a given framework. They want to see external success and meaningful action in harmony with family obligations and personal development goals. There are countless business books that provide assistance to executives dealing with difficult tasks and conflict situations. Masha Ibeschitz’s new book is one of the few that answers this question: What needs to be done when a major career leap is imminent? The book is an invitation to reflect on the past, present and future of your own success. The goal is to make conscious and lasting career decisions.
Murder at an Irish Christmas by Carlene O’Connor This December in Kilbane, if you’re planning to warm up with a cuppa tea at Naomi’s Bistro, you may have a bit of a wait--the entire O’Sullivan brood has gone off to West Cork to spend the holidays with brother James’ fiancée Elise’s family, including her grandfather, the famous orchestral conductor Enda Elliot. Siobhán is so happy for James and Elise but also quietly disappointed that she must put her own wedding to fellow garda Macdara Flannery on hold. Mac will have to join them later, so he can spend part of the holidays with his mam. When the O’Sullivans learn everyone will choose a name from a hat to buy a music-related Christmas gift for someone else at the gathering, it seems like their greatest concern--until the cantankerous conductor is discovered crushed under a ninety-pound harp in a local concert hall. With the extended family--including Enda’s much-younger new wife Leah, a virtuoso violinist--suspected in his murder, it’s up to Siobhán to ensure the guilty party faces the music. But as a snowstorm strands both families in a lavish farmhouse on a cliff, Siobhán had better pick up the tempo--before the killer orchestrates another untimely demise...
The Popularity Pact: Camp Clique by Eileen Moskowitz-Palma In the blink of a summer, Bea goes from having a best friend and a place she belongs to being dropped and invisible, eating lunch alone and only talking to teachers. The end of sixth grade and the start of Camp Amelia can’t come soon enough. But then the worst part of school, ex-best friend Maisy, shows up in Bea’s safe place and ruins it all. Maisy lands in the same bunk as Bea and summer suddenly seems dire. Never having camped a day in her life, Maisy agrees: it’s hopeless. She should be at home, spending time with her little sister and hanging out with her super popular crew of friends--not at this stupid adventure camp failing everything and being hated by everyone. In a desperate bid to belong, Maisy offers Bea a deal: if Bea helps her fit in at the camp, she will get Bea into the M & M’s, their town’s popular clique, when they enter seventh grade in the fall. The Popularity Pact is born.
From Muck to Magic by Wendi Knox
When life knocked Wendi Knox down, hundreds of red dragonflies lifted her up. What she learned from them was so life-changing, she just couldn’t keep it to herself. From Muck To Magic is a one-of-a-kind inspirational book. With heart, art and humor, it takes women on a poetic journey from the muck of self-doubt to the magic of self-love. An award-winning storyteller for brands like Honda and Acura, Wendi created this book to change the stories we tell ourselves. Through whimsical yet profound paintings and words that seem written personally for you, the dreaded blues and greys of life literally become rainbows of possibility. From Muck To Magic is a balm for the soul of any woman, at any age, who finds herself stuck in the muck of change, growth, worry, loss, fear, grief, overwhelm, inertia, exhaustion or the mere messiness of life.
A Bend in the River by Libby Fischer Hellmann In 1968 two young Vietnamese sisters flee to Saigon after their village on the Mekong River is attacked by American forces and burned to the ground. The sole survivors of the brutal massacre that killed their family, the sisters struggle to survive but become estranged, separated by sharply different choices and ideologies. Mai ekes out a living as a GI bar girl, but Tam’s anger festers, and she heads into jungle terrain to fight with the Viet Cong. For nearly ten years, neither sister knows if the other is alive. Do they both survive the war? And if they do, can they mend their fractured relationship? Or are the wounds from their journeys too deep to heal? In a stunning departure from her crime thrillers, Libby Fischer Hellmann delves into a universal story about survival, family, and the consequences of war.
Blood Orchids by Toby Neal Paradise has a dark side. She can’t stop thinking about a drowned girl’s face... because it reminds her of her own. Overcoming a past filled with scars, Lei makes a life for herself and her dog, Keiki, as a cop in the sleepy Big Island town of Hilo. When a routine patrol turns up two murdered teens, Lei’s world is rocked. She knows one of the girls, and she can’t rest until she finds answers—not only about the victims, but about her own shadowed past as well. She’ll look so beautiful...once she’s dead. He knows he’s twisted. He knows he’s wrong. He just doesn’t care. But now there’s a female cop on his trail that won’t give up, and she’s gonna be next. “Blood Orchids satisfies on every level. A powerful talent is on the scene, whole-heartedly recommended.” -Drew Cross, former police officer, author of BiteMarks
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 13
Enlightening, Educating & Empowering THE WORLD TO BE GIVING WHILE MAKING A LIVING PROJECT POP DROP & THE CREATION OF GIVEFLUENCERS BY ANTHONY EWART
“Once Upon A Time...I Know” This is the story of a beautiful fairy tale we’ve all been living in for a decade. 2021 officially makes it a decade but you always round up in fairy tales. If you truly don’t know the date then you begin with “Once Upon A Time.” But this is a modern fairy tale so we do know the date. Our story begins in 2011 when John David Snyder and his beautiful wife Niki Shadrow Snyder created Project Pop Drop. If you have a roof over your head, a refrigerator with food and a warm bed to sleep in you haven’t been affected “directly” by the fairy tale of Project Pop Drop, but you most certainly have been affected “indirectly.” As Carl Jung explained, “We live in a collective unconscious. All of our minds pool together like sweet raindrops in a sun shower and form an invisible ocean of consciousness”. This is how ideas are spread around the world. So when a jolt of happiness and love is infused in the material world it spreads through the immaterial world of our collective unconscious. When a homeless mother and her children receive food, blankets, personal hygiene products, socks, underwear, 14 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
sleeping bags and toys from Project Pop Drop the love experienced by that family resonates through our collective unconscious like electrons through copper wires. Instantaneously. You may have gone to sleep the previous night feeling slightly depressed about conditions in our world. And while you slept John Snyder and Niki Shadrow Snyder were in the dark streets of downtown Los Angeles feeding our homeless brothers and sisters. So, when you woke up the next morning you had a strange sensation of joy. Happiness. A feeling that something good happened in the world in the few hours your body rested. Human suffering was eased. This vibrant, unexplainable sensation of love stays with you all day. It affects the way you interact with everyone you encounter. They, in turn, of course, do the same. Project Pop Drop has created a ripple effect of compassion and caring in the world which gives birth to understanding. The roots to love and peace. This is the fairy tale that Niki Shadrow Snyder and her husband John Snyder have immersed the world in since 2011 when the intense love they felt for each other produced an idea for the greatest social revolution the world has ever known: the concept of a “givefluencer”.
John David Snyder, Ava Snyder, Chloe Snyder, Dylan Snyder, Levi Snyder & Niki Shadrow Snyder I Hope of The Valley Rescue Mission I Check Presentation Ceremony I Photo By: Ken Craft/ Hope Of The Valley Rescue Mission
“John & Niki” There are three characters in this fairy tale: Niki, John... and the world. Throughout both of their lives John and Niki have been consumed with helping the world. Helping people. Sharing love and understanding. We have enough resources in the world that no child should ever go hungry. But children are hungry. And some children die from starvation or malnutrition in this country. John was only in junior high school when he realized the world he witnessed in real life was much different than the world in the media. John may have been thirteen when his father took him to a Lakers game at the Forum in Inglewood. Amidst the dazzling excitement of seeing the Lakers firsthand (those images the TV captured correctly), John was bothered by the other images he never saw on any television network. It was the sight of homeless people John saw sleeping in boxes or on the sidewalk as he drove with his father to the Forum. Those images never left John. Every Project Pop Drop delivery John makes with Niki is a cathartic experience; he’s not only helping people in the material world, he’s healing the homeless people of his memories he saw as a boy that night by the Forum. As Anthony Hopkin’s would probably tell John, he’s “Silencing the Lambs” of his childhood.
Niki Shadrow was a celebrity stylist extraordinaire in Hollywood. Niki’s aesthetic sense was and is palpable. Just talking to Niki, you’re hoping somehow through that osmosis some of her fashion artistry will rub off on you. Niki uses color in her styling the way Matisse used colors on his magnificent paintings and collages.Or the way Ravel infused all of his musical orchestrations with vibrant colors, most notably in his “Ma mère l’Oye (Mother Goose Suite).” But Matisse and Ravel both knew true art is steeped in real love. Just as nuclear fusion fuels the sun, love is the nuclear fusion for creativity. It is why there’s a clear difference, between the beautiful sarcasm and wit of Andy Warhol’s art before “The Factory,” and after, when sincere love was forgotten as Warhol slowly fell in love with (and extended) the “15 minutes of fame” line he originated, believing that everyone was entitled to at least that. Niki was able to circumvent the narcissistic traps of fame in Hollywood because, like her future husband John, she was aware of the real world. Niki excelled in Hollywood because she never worshipped it. It was never real. It was art. It was fashion. It was fun. It was not real life. For Niki and John people suffering in this world was a real problem that had to be solved in real time. HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 15
make a living “Weby what we get.
We make a life by what we give.
“
WINSTON CHURCHILL
“Givefluencers” John and Niki created the word “givefluencer” and a community for “givefluencers” called, The “Givefluencer Network”. A “givefluencer” is a person that is influencing the world by what they give back. Before John and Niki found each other they were two strangers in Los Angeles busy with their careers while simultaneously trying to figure out how to save the world. Everyone who knew them, their friends and family, said they’d never get married. How could they? They were always busy. Between their careers and volunteer work there was just no time for dating. People around them in our City of Angels were hurting and hungry. This was a real battle for Niki and John, and this is what writers don’t understand today. An antagonist in a story doesn’t have to be an actual person. Niki and John are the protagonists of this fairy tale, the antagonist is hunger. The villain is poverty. The monster is homelessness. There can be engaging, thrilling stories where all the people are good and what they are fighting to overcome are situations. Good news for filmmakers, stories like this require no CGI, just heartfelt emotions, love, courage and humanity which are the essential ingredients and components for immortal stories that bind and bond human beings together. The story of Niki and John is a story of this caliber; it is a fairy tale that connects us all through compassion and love for humanity. 16 16 •• HOLLYWOOD HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY WEEKLY
If you’re inclined to think Niki and John spent their entire first date discussing ways to change the world you’d be right. But that’s the point here. You don’t need twenty matching points on a dating site to fall in love with someone, just a common, worthy goal that you both spend all your time together pursuing. It was on that first date that John and Niki created Project Pop Drop. That was over a decade ago. Now they’re married with four kids and the philanthropic organization they dreamed of on their first date is a reality. Project Pop Drop delivers life saving supplies every month from coast to coast. The foundation helps contribute to facilitating more than 90,000 meals to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. They are well on their way to helping feed millions with their initiatives. But here’s the best part, the entire organization is funded through John and Niki’s parent company “Platinum International Products And Services .” This was the blueprint that Niki and John came up with all those years ago. “Giving” should not be something we only do every Thanksgiving or Christmas (sometimes both), it must be a concept woven into the fabric of your organization or business so you can give back to the community not just once a month but make an impact three hundred and sixty five day a year. John and Niki believe you should always lead by example. Their own children, Chloe, age 7 and their natural triplets, Ava, Dylan and Levi, age 3, all participate
in giving back with the program as they personally deliver the donations with their parents on the last Saturday of every month 12 months a year. Can you imagine if every business in Los Angeles contributed a small portion of their profits every month to the homeless or hunger situation in our city? It would transform LA into a city of the future where happiness is shared by all, and we would defy the predictions made of our fate by great dystopian writers like Aldous Huxley, Philip K. Dick and George Orwell. “Giving” as an agenda, what a concept. Becoming, as Niki and John frame it, a “givefluencer”. Their day job is Platinum International Products And Services, an office supply company with a private label brand of toner and ink cartridges. All of their clients understand that when they do business with Niki and John they are also giving to their sister company Project Pop Drop. Their Clients are their partners. In fact they call their clients their “pop drop partners.” Their customers are partnering with Niki and John to support Project Pop Drop. They are printing with a purpose. They are giving while making a living. Downtown Los Angeles has a homeless population somewhere between seven and ten thousand. The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority released the results of the 2020 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count, which showed over 66,436 people in Los Angeles County experiencing homelessness, This represents a 12.7% rise from last year’s point-in-time count. This number is rising every day. Niki and John work closely with the homeless shelters, missions and food pantries all over greater Los Angeles and in Orange County, which has been described as the “shadow of Disneyland” since such a huge population of homeless people have been forced financially to live there. John and Niki coordinate food, clothing, toiletry and toy drives with numerous businesses throughout Los Angeles under the umbrella of Project Pop Drop. In 2017 Niki and John, along with the COO, Jeff Korell, inaugurated a school program with middle schools and high schools all over Los Angeles with the mantra “Teach the youth of America to give back.” Their mission is to enlighten, educate & empower their student partners. They’ve taught students about the plight of the homeless and how we can all help in our own way. Niki and John show students how they can implement food and clothing drives for the homeless in their school. Several teachers and student partners have accompanied Niki and John on Project Pop Drop deliveries to homeless shelters so they can see first- hand the impact of their efforts.
Platinum International Products And Services has embraced the concept of an ethics driven company and redefined Cause Marketing by helping all companies and organizations give back even if their business itself doesn’t have a compelling (motivating) backstory written into their marketing. All businesses and individuals can be “givefluencers” by simply caring about people on a daily basis and creating a system for helping those less fortunate and sticking to it. Make it a part of your daily life and routine. Becoming a “givefluencer” is a state of mind achieved by understanding all human beings are connected. As a society we can only function correctly when we’re all taking care of each other. “The Secret” (2006) dramatically illustrated the power of the “Law of Attraction,” so with Niki and John generating this much love in Los Angeles they were bound to be drawn to other loving souls. It is not surprising that there is now a connection with Oprah Winfrey, the “Queen of Compassion and Giving. Project Pop Drop will be a featured with their Project Pop Drop team on an episode in the Emmy Award winning TV show on Oprah’s “OWN” network for the TV show, Give coming up next month. We’ll keep you updated on that news because John and Niki Snyder are going to become regular features in Hollywood Weekly. John and Niki run their philanthropic foundation on both the West Coast and on the East Coast, with their national headquarters in Los Angeles and a regional office in the Tampa Bay area of Florida. They have also produced events for the homeless in South Carolina, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Washington, DC In every state, Niki and John chant their motto “Give and Receive.” Project Pop Drop was recently awarded a gold medal and the “Presidents Volunteer Service Award” in recognition for their commitment to strengthen our nation and communities through service. This was a Presidential Honor for their great work in the community. It was accepted by their Regional Vice President, Sharon Edwards. John and Niki were personally inspired by Steve Jobs in his iconic commercial that referenced, “Here’s to the crazy ones, the ones crazy enough to think they can change the world, because they are the ones that usually do”. All this from two people who only had two wishes in life. One wish was to help the world, the other wish was to find personal love. I’m happy to say this is a fairy tale where they accomplished both wishes, and in doing so John and Niki have included all of us in their. John and Niki look forward to showing the world that becoming a “givefluencer” is a sure way to achieve not only your life’s purpose but your own personal happily ever after. HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 17
The Bandung Choral Society from Indonesia organized the 2nd World Virtual Choir Festival from 1st December to 6th December 2020. They extended invitation to different Choir Groups from all over the world to participate even though the world is experiencing Covid19 and countries having to lockdown schools and colleges and obeying the guidelines of their respective countries in safety distancing, wearing of masks and no gathering of groups. Invitation was done through the social media ,Facebook ,Instagram and YouTube. The KC Lights Choir from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya were invited to represent India at the Concert of Nations in Indonesian 75th Independence Day Virtual Choir Festival on 18 August ' 2020 and Choir Groups from 13 countries were selected to be a part of the 75th Indonesian Independence Day at the Friendship Concert of the Nations. It was the greatest sense of pride for the KC Lights Choir to represent India and perform at the Friendship Concert . The KC Lights Choir are young boys and girls from Kiddies Corner Higher Secondary School, Shillong, Meghalaya represented India as proud Indians to create a strong bonding with the youth of Indonesia and to inspire other young students to bring laurels to India and their music to become the medium to build friendship with the youth of Indonesia . This time, the older children were preparing for their exams and so the Principal of the School ,Brain Wallang did not want to lose out this opportunity and took it as a challenge during this pandemic and lockdown and formed a Choir with the little ones from the school to enter at the 2nd World Virtual Choir Festival, 2020 . Brain Wallang decided to form another Choir group of the seniors and past pupils for the Pop & Jazz category and decided to be called KC LIGHTS - the Family. There are 32 members of them in this choir and took this challenge to make India proud. It had been very difcult to get the children to practice live, but they had done a good job. The Bandung Choral Society decided to have the 2nd World Virtual Choir Festival 2020 and arranged the Opening Ceremony, Closing & Awarding Ceremony on Zoom. The participants were asked to send only one representative to attend the Opening Ceremony, and Closing & Awarding on Zoom. The Opening Ceremony, Closing & Awarding Ceremony was shown on LIVE STREAMING on YouTube Tommyanto Kandisaputra and Facebook account Tommy Kandisaputra. There were some strict protocols for the Workshops that only one representative from each participant country to attend the workshops and to meet the Jury. They introduced two special awards for “MOST VIEWED VIDEO” on YouTube for Solo Singing Competition and Choir Competition.
18 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
The KC LIGHTS Choir group was formed of 20 members and the age ranging from 6 to 13 years old and from Class 1 to Class 7. The Lead singers for the song, 'You Say' chosen for the Competition were Gabriella War, Medadajied Kharbithai and Aimeiaka Dkhar.
KC LIGHTS- the Family Choir group comprising of 32 members of both seniors of the school and past pupils. Registration was carried out together with the full details of the choir, the categories they were to participate, the songs selected for the competition, the rights to sing the song, the scores, biography of the choirs, photographs of the choirs and the name of the Conductor.
Due to the pandemic and the lockdown, the process carried out by Brian was his own innovation to select the song for the Children's Category and that was sent to the children along with the lyrics so that they could practice the song at home. They were also sent the videos of vocal exercises as most of them were new recruits. These videos were made by the present members of the choir. The children were asked to do these exercises daily. After a week or so of practicing at home , they were asked to send the videos of them singing the song. After listening to their voices, the children were divided into the various harmonies to be singing as Soprano1, Soprano 2 and Alto. These children in smaller groups were made to be with Brian at his home to teach them their respective parts. For this he got the help of the pianist and Music Teacher, Ms Elsa Dkhar. They met for two days and by then they had learnt their parts. He recorded them and then sent it to the others to learn. Finally, three days before the recording, the children were called at the school for practice sessions of 2 hours and to adhere to follow all protocols. Once it was nalized ,the children were sent in batches to the studio to do the nal recording. The recording was done at Bah Bari Khonglah's studio and was completed in two days to do the complete song. It was not a very easy process and the rst time for the children to experience what all parameters and pains taken to carry out a proper professional recording. The children had to carry out the rehearsals over and over again to get the notes right till it was perfect. At the end it was a wonderful learning experience. The next step was to make the video and was done in school by the students , Kynsai and Emi, two of the past pupils. They took shot of each child, one at a time. This too was a fun experience for the children. Once this was done, Kynsai and his brother, Frankensince, did the nal editing. Once it was ready it was sent to the organizers -Bandung Choral Society. The same process was followed by the KC Lights-The Family Choir Group for the learning of the song. Once they learnt their parts, were called to school for practice. They were put into smaller groups for harmonies and once they were ready of their parts, they sang the song together. This rehearsal continued for two days till all was good. The recording for the seniors, a small make- shift studio was set up in school where John Rymbai, a past pupil who is in class 11, took charge and recorded the members one or two at a time. It took them two days to complete the recording. On the 3rd day the video was prepared by Emi and Kynsai . Once the shooting was over, Emi took charge of the editing and putting the whole video together, it was sent to the Bandung Choral Society.
The scores were to be sent much earlier as the Judges needed them to do their job. There were 5 judges from South Korea, Italy, Philippines and Indonesia The journey experienced by all the Choir members during the last three days before the competition were the most special three days in the lives of each member .Due to lockdown, the children hadn't met up in eight months and to see the smiles on their faces when they saw their classmates was just beautiful experience. The whole process brought them all together like one big family. The fun, the laughter, the sharing was just so special. The children especially were nally able to be children once again! Both the choirs wanted to win to make India proud. The bonding was amazing and was a lot of fun . Many of the children came out of their slumber and became more condent. Many of these children never realized their talents and they did try singing solo and did such an amazing job. It was these three beautiful three days of learning, sharing, fun and happiness. The Children’s Choir- KC LIGHTS performed on the 2nd and KC LIGHTS - the Family on the 4th day of the competition . The Closing Ceremony was on the 6th December 2020. It was a LIVE show on YouTube. The rst set of awards were the Special Awards and the KC LIGHTS- the Family received the award for the 'Most Inspiring Choir'. Then the competition results were declared and the KC Lights Children’s Choir won the Gold Medal for India with the highest score . These children made India proud spreading joy to their parents for their support and encouraging them to remain positive during this lockdown making not only the state of Meghalaya proud but India at large and complimentary messages pouring in from all across the country .
The results of the Pop and Jazz Category, which the KC LIGHTS- the Family, had participated and an ecstatic moment for all choir members when the Announcer declared KC Lights –The Family to win the Gold Medal for India . Congratulatory messages poured in from all across the country.
The success of the KC Lights Choir winning Gold Medal for India depended on the musicians who accompanied .For the song “ You Say” credit goes out to Miss Elsa Dkhar. For the KC Lights - the Family for the song “Africa” credit goes out to Elza Rymbai on the Keyboards, Vincent Tariang on the Drums, John Rymbai on the Bass/ percussions and Kynsai Kupar Manners on the Guitar. It is Singing Together that Unite Nations Together !
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 19
IN MEMORIAM
DR. SHIVINDER SINGH SIDHU
FORMER GOVERNOR OF MEGHALAYA ,MANIPUR THE NORTH EAST STATES OF INDIA ALSO FORMER GOVERNOR OF GOA & FORMER CHAIRMAN OF AIR INDIA & INDIAN AIRLINES FORMER SECRETARY GENERAL OF INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ORGANIZATION (ICAO) FOUNDER PRESIDENT, FOUNDATION FOR AVIATION SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (FAST) Dr. Shivinder Singh Sidhu was born on 13 October 1929 and was an Indian political gure. Dr. Sidhu held a number of senior posts and represented the Government of India at numerous bilateral and inter-governmental negotiations in various elds. He was also the Chief Delegate of the Indian delegation to a number of international conferences and was elected President of the Twenty-sixth Session of the ICAO Assembly in 1986. While he was Director of India's Civil Aviation Administration from February 1985 to October 1987, he also served as Chairman of Air India and Indian Airlines and as Secretary to the Government in the Ministry of Civil Aviation. He holds advanced degrees in Economics and Public Administration and a Doctorate of Philosophy. On receiving news of his passing away on 25 October 2018, the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Montreal, Canada unanimously decided and ordered the ying of the UN ICAO ag at half mast over it HQ building in Montreal as well as at all its global regional ofces as a mark of respect to the memory of Dr. Sidhu - a rst in its history. Dr. S.S. Sidhu has been closely associated with the Civil Aviation sector for over two decades both at the national and international levels. He has rendered outstanding contribution to the development of international civil aviation as Secretary General. ICAO and later as Founder-President, Foundation for Aviation and Sustainable Tourism (FAST) for over 12 years. In August, 2004 Dr. Sidhu was appointed to the prestigious position as the Governor of Manipur State (in India). He continued to be Governor of Manipur for four years with concurrent responsibility as Governor of Meghalaya, another State in North East India for eight months. Since 21st July, 2008, he has been Governor of Goa State in India. Despite this, he continued to take an active interest in the growth and development of civil aviation, being President Emeritus of FAST.
Dr. S.S.Sidhu As Governor of Meghalaya At Raj Bhawan,Shillong
20 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Dr. S.S.Sidhu As Governor of Manipur Inspecting The Guard Of Honour At Imphal Airport ,Manipur.
DR. S.S.Sidhu As Governor Of Manipur Is Being Received At Imphal Airport, Capital of Manipur.
In honour of Dr.S.S. Sidhu, the former Governor of Manipur, as a mark of respect ,the Orchids of Manipur known as “Urei” is named as Aeridovanda Shiv Sidhu. This is the Orchid registered with the London Orchids Society.
Dr. Sidhu hails from the village Bhai ka Kera known as the abode of the Bhai, in District Muktsar, Malwa region of Punjab state. His father's name was Bhai Inder Singh. The Bhai title was bestowed on his forefathers by the Sikh Guru . Dr. Sidhu and his three brothers never used this title. This was the original Bhai family of Punjab. His school education included the DAV school in District Ferozepur prior to the partition of India, the Foreman Christian College, Lahore, now in Pakistan. He completed his B.A (Honours) Economics from the prestigious St. Stephen's College, Delhi University. He completed his Master's degree from the Delhi School of Economics. He stood 4th & 3rd in Delhi University in B. A. & M. A. respectively. He was the Captain of the St. Stephen's hockey team & was a university blues in that sport. Dr. Sidhu was the very rst Indian to do a post graduate degree in Public Administration at the École National de Administration in Paris, France. In addition to English & Hindi, he was conversant in Urdu, Persian & French.
DR. S.S.Sidhu As Governor of Goa At The Raj Bhawan
Apart from his rich contribution to the civil aviation sector in the aforesaid period, he was instrumental in the establishment of three important institutions i.e. (i) Pawan Hans ,a public sector — Helicopter Corporation of India; (ii) Indira Gandhi Flying Academy for Training of Pilots to serve as feedstock for the airlines of India; and (iii) National Airports Authority of India for expeditious development of airports in the country. He received all round appreciation for efcient handling of a crisis situation arising from the crash of Air India aircraft "Kanishka" off Irish Coast in June 1985. This was the worst disaster in the aviation history of India. While leading his country's delegation to the 26th Triennial General Assembly, ICAO in 1986, he was unanimously elected as President of the General Assembly that year.
This was a unique honour for the country as no Indian had ever presided over the Triennial General Assembly of ICAO. till then. As Secretary General of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) during 1988-1991,Dr. Sidhu made outstanding and path-breaking contribution in the all round growth of international civil aviation. To cite a few examples are his sustained and active support to the work of Future Air Navigation (FAN) Committee ensured a time-bound and concrete recommendations of the committee for the introduction of communication, navigation and surveillance (CNS) system based on satellite technology. The subsequent growth of international civil aviation has been possible, in no small measure, due to the introduction of his technology. Dr. Sidhu spearheaded the establishment of a well-structured Mechanism for material, technical and nancial support to Member countries of ICAO in tackling unlawful interference to civil aviation security, in the wake of Lokerbi Air Tragedy in early 1989. The framework for this unique mechanism was implemented in record time, which was greatly appreciated by the Council Members and General Assembly of ICAO.He left a positive impact in streamlining the work of the Bureau of Development Cooperation, ICAO and in activating the Regional Ofces of the Organization.
After the expiry of his term as Secretary General, ICAO in 1991, Dr. Sidhu worked as President of Foundation for Aviation and Sustainable Tourism (FAST) till 3' August, 2004. This is an autonomous, non-government and not for prot research organization, in the eld of civil aviation and tourism. It is international in character, membership and in the spread of its activities. FAST also acts as a bridge in North-South cooperation in the eld of aviation and tourism. The unique feature of the foundation is that it covers three key sectors of the economy i.e. civil aviation, tourism and environment. Eminent representatives and experts from 14 countries across the globe are members of its Council. Under Dr. Sidhu's leadership, the Foundation acquired an international standing over the years. He demitted his ofce as President, FAST after being sworn as the Governor of Manipur State on Au sut upon him the rare honour, 6, 2004. The Governing body in the Board of Trustees of FAST bestowed designating him as "President Emeritus of FAST for life". In that capacity, he continues to contribute towards the growth and development of international civil aviation.
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 21
The Foundation has developed close working relationship with the related international agencies, viz. ICAO, WTO, WTTC, IATA, and PATA. It has organized seven International Conferences, which have been extremely successful in terms of participation, deliberation and the outcome. As a part of it's ongoing activities, on 16th and 17th September, 2009, organized an International Air Transport Symposium on "India-Asia Civil Aviation Cooperation" together with ICAO, IATA, ACI, CANSO, FAA, EC. Delegates from 24 countries participated in the symposium. The keynote address at the symposium was read by President ICAO. The Foundation is uniquely positioned to offer independent and objective management advice and to undertake studies/projects in all aspects of civil aviation and tourism. It has successfully carried out various studies and has brought forth useful reports, reference books and well analyzed research monographs on issues of topical interest for the benet of policy makers and the aviation industry.
Among the various books authored by Dr. Sidhu, the following deserve special mention• Aviation & Sustainable Tourism — Emerging Trends. • New Horizons in Travel & Tourism — Asian Approach. • Flight into the Millennium — Aviation & Tourism Symbiosis. • Tourism & Aviation — Airborne for Progress. • Aviation and Tourism Synergy for Success. At the request of the Secretary General, Commonwealth Secretariat, Dr. Sidhu did a special assignment from June to August 1994 relating to evaluation of Commonwealth Fund for Technical development in the eld of civil aviation for its Member — States in Islands in South Pacic Ocean. Dr. Sidhu has been bestowed special honours for his work in the eld of international civil aviation. The Government of Peru (Latin America) bestowed upon him the highest honour — Grand Cruz des Services Distingue (Grand Cross of Distinguished Services) by the Foreign Minister of Peru at a formal ceremony at Lima in 1989. On expiry of his term at ICAO, the Government of United States of America presented him a handcrafted ag of USA with a certicate to the effect that the ag presented was own over the Capitol of the United States especially for presentation to Dr. S.S. Sidhu for his meritorious services in international Civil Aviation. The presentation was formally made by Mr.
22 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Don Newman, United States Minister-Representative on the Council of ICAO, in 1991 at Montreal.
In the ceremonial lounge of the headquarters of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Montreal, Canada. ICAO is one of the few independent UN organizations not reporting to the UN Secretary General where he was the elected Secretary General (CEO). Only the 3rd Indian since 1947 to be so elected, the other previous (1949 & 1972) being BR Sain at FAO, Italy & CP Srivastava at International Maritime Organization, London. Dr. Sidhu was elected in 1989. He defeated an incumbent French Secretary General who was being supported by the then G6. After him and to this date, no other Indian has been elected to the top job in either the UN or in any independent UN Organization. Dr. Sidhu's portrait is seen in the ceremonial lounge of ICAO. Hollywood Weekly Magazine is honoured to pay special tribute to Dr.S.S.Sidhu for his outstanding contribution to the Aviation Sector not only in India but also in the International Civil Aviation. He had an illustrious career with impeccable conduct as a leader and a true son of India. Special thanks to Mr. Raman Sidhu, CEO, European Federation in India for sharing the photographs who also is the son of Dr.S.S.Sidhu . A special ofcial tribute to Dr.S.S.Sidhu will be organized and will take place at New Delhi in the month of March 2021 . Ms. Rosy Ahluwalia , Fashion Designer and Founder ,Dikha Khadi, who has been a pioneer to promote Khadi worldwide, will also join in to pay tribute to Dr.Sidhu . The Chief Guest will be Hon’ble Mr.Hardeep Puri, The Hon’ble Minister of Civil Aviation & also Minister of Urban Development ,Government of India to bestow the special honours to Dr S.S. Sidhu to promote the Aviation Sector and an inspiration to every Indian.
Shahnaz Husain received “World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur” Award from Success, the U.S based business magazine, becoming the first woman in 104 years to receive the prestigious Award. SHAHNAZ HUSAIN, FOUNDER SHAHNAZ HUSAIN GROUP
SHAHNAZ HUSAIN
“ Shahnaz Husain is a name to reckon with. To her exclusively goes the credit of bringing the therapeutic values of herbs out of the mists of antiquity and legend, and combining them with scientific research and practice. Shahnaz Husain has done so much for India’s image abroad that she truly deserves the sobriquet of India’s Beauty Ambassador.” -Washington Post, USA
Shahnaz Husain extends her best wishes to the readers of Hollywood Weekly Magazine for the New Year, wishing them all good health, happiness, and peace. Please do look out for the March 2021 issue, which will celebrate International Woman's Day and also feature Shahnaz Husain on the Cover. As the pioneer of the Ayurvedic Beauty Movement and as one of India's leading woman entrepreneurs, she has received unprecedented international acclaim. She became a Harvard Case Study for Brand Creation and now she is a Harvard Subject for “Emerging Markets,” in recognition of the international market for Ayurveda.” It is the sole purpose of my existence to treat clients worldwide, including Hollywood. I am curing a client in California for Alopecia and in London for pigmentation with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Whatsapp with great success,” says Shahnaz. She further adds, “ From the days of Ayurvedic Inheritance to the present times of Artificial Intelligence (AI), we have come a long way. When I started my first herbal salon, more than four decades ago, I followed the principle of customized beauty care, at the client card level. The client was made to fill a card with basic details, the details of allergies, past history, past treatments, and current treatments. Now with computer programming, it is possible to create larger databases, with many more details, like geographical region, ethnic characteristics, etc.” Both Ayurveda and Women Empowerment are close to Shahnaz Husain's heart. According to her, “Woman empowerment means financial independence and selfreliance for women because it opens the door to career opportunities, including entrepreneurship.” From one small herbal salon to a global network of ventures, it has been a phenomenal journey for Shahnaz Husain, which inspires women to achieve their dreams with faith and courage. She adds, “It is a dream come true for me to see the worldwide recognition of Ayurveda. I strongly believe that Ayurveda will lead the international cosmetic industry within the next decade. It has been tested by the most exacting test of all…..the Test of Time!”
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 23
MR. RAMAN SIDHU , CEO,EBG FEDERATION IN INDIA STRENGTHENING THE EU-INDIA TRADE -HIS VISION AND MISSION POST COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN 2021. Raman Sidhu, FCA
Business Group (BBG).Also served as a consultant and Project Leader to the government Trinidad & Tobago on that country. He has also been a member for 20years of Young President Organisation (YPO and YPO- Gold) International.
A qualied Chartered Accountant of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW) and as well as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in India (ICAI)
He is CEO, EBG Federation, India. He is also Senior Adviser, TMF - Group India & Senior Advisor, Accord Group (India), part of AltoPartners Worldwide, Senior executive search rm. He is also an Independent Director on the board of Selan Exploration Technology Ltd.as well of Cremica Food Industries Ltd. in India. He is one of the 4 Life Trustees of Foundation for Aviation & Sustainable Tourism (FAST).He is Co-Founder and Past President of the Public Affairs Forum of India (PAFI). He was an Independent Director on the Boards of G4S Corporate Services Ltd, holding Company of G4S Group in India, Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), National HydroElectric Power Corporation (NHPC), India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL), Deutsche Post Bank Home Finance Ltd, National Textile Corporation Ltd (NTC) and Accord India (International executive search company). He was one of 5 members of the Ministry of Finance & Corporate Affairs ‘Core Group’ set up to establish Corporate Governance norms for all International FII’s (Banks, Insurance companies, Mutual funds, Private Equity, etc.) operating in India. He was also Senior Director & Board Member - HSBC Securities & Capital Markets (India) Pvt. Ltd, Director Fidelity Fund Management & Barclays Bank PLC. He is a Past Member of National Executive Committee of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI).He was the Adviser of Commonwealth Secretariat, London to the Minister of Industries, Government of Trinidad and Tobago. He has also the past Chairman of the Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Deputy Chairman, British
24 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
6TH NATIONAL FORUM, SEPTEMBER 2019- HON’BLE MINISTER OF CIVIL AVIATION & URBAN DEVELOPMENT MINISTER, GOVERNMENT OF INDIA WITH MR.RAMAN SIDHU,CEO,EBG FOUNDATION
STRENGTHENING THE EU – INDIA TRADE The EBG Federation organised the 18th Annual Position Paper to strengthening the EU – India trade and the way forward was an unprecedented ceremony held on 25 November 2020. The EBG Federation in India aims to promote India as the most preferred Business Partner thus creating an environment that allows to ourish. The 18th Edition of the Annual Position paper is the rst Position paper that was unveiled virtually due to Covid-19 pandemic. The EBG Position paper expresses the views of the members of the EBG Federation and its knowledge partners on aspects of the business environment in India that affects the development of Indo-European Business relations. The Position paper proposes key policy reforms that is conducive to the business climate which could further increase trade and investments between India and Europe. The Position paper provides European Commission with views of European business operating in India and serves as a base reference document for its bilateral deliberations with the Government of India. The EBG Federation released the 18th edition of the Annual Position Paper for the rst time virtually on the 25th of November 2020. The Position Paper is EBG 's main tool for advocacy with its stakeholders which highlights the EBG 's
views on government policies. It is a collective expression of the views of the members of the EBG Federation and its Knowledge Partners on key aspects of the business environment in India that affect the development of India-EU business relationships. The paper was released by Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog and Cabinet Minister, and H.E. Ugo Astuto, Ambassador of the Delegation of European Union to India in the presence of senior Government ofcials and Ambassadors from various European Nations. The EBG Federation will meet again for the next edition of the Annual Position Paper in the year 2021
MR.RAMAN SIDHU,CEO,EBG FOUNDATION ADRESSING AT THE INDIA’S MODERNISATION AGENDA
MR.RAMAN SIDHU,CEO,EBG FOUNDATION ADRESSING AT THE INDIA’S MODERNISATION AGENDA
MR RAMAN SIDHU,CEO,EBG FOUNDATION ADDRESSING AT THE INDOEUROPEAN UNION BUSINESS FORUM ON 06 OCTOBER 2017
HE MS MORGHERINI, HIGH REPRESENTATIVE (FOREIGN AFFAIRS & SECURITY), EU, BRUSSELS & HE TOMASZ KOZLOWSKI, THE EU AMBASSADOR TO INDIA
INTERACTIVE SESSION WITH THE HON’BLE MINISTER OF FOR RAILWAYS SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 25
6TH NATIONAL FORUM 2019 – DEVELOPING PARTNERSHIPS, ENGAGING STAKEHOLDERS. Mr.Raman Sidhu shares some of his views and thoughts on his vision with all European companies and the way he looks at matters of Indo-European post lockdown in 2021. The COVID-19 pandemic has been like no other in both its global reach and its adverse impact on our world in 2020. This pandemic demolished the very economic edice and beliefs that existed and people were brought up to believe in over so many years. Firstly, he does not believe that it will go away in 2021. It may lessen with the nal arrival and administering of the right vaccine. However, its impact will linger on through most of 2021. He also says that despite the fact that he is an eternal optimist. One must be realistic and practical too. The world, including India and Europe will be in a strong recovery mode in 2022. India is a natural and the biggest trading partner . It is bigger than both USA and China. It is a natural partner as they are the world's largest democracies & 2 of the world's biggest economies. In 2019, the total value of EU-India trade in goods stood at €80 billion, accounting for 11.1% of India's overall trade in goods. Bilateral trade in services has also seen a steady increase, reaching €28.56 billion in 2018. EU is also a leading investor in India, with an investment stock valued at €61 billion in March 2020, which is 22% of total FDI inows into India (FY 2019-20). In short, there is enormous potential for both sides. European companies have been the longest established foreign businesses and investments in India, longer than USA and most certainly China. Against this background, at the EU-India Summit, last July, both PM Modi of India and President ,Van Der Leyen of the European Commission reiterated their determination to reinforce trade, investment and economic relations. The Indian market presents a host of major business opportunities. However, EU companies, particularly SMEs , which on an average constitute nearly 65% of European businesses, also face challenges when operating in such a vast and complex environment, such as in India. Challenges related to difculties in accessing the market, import duties, 26 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
non-tariff barriers, the specics of the intellectual property regime, the lack of familiarity with the maze of regulatory regimes, including country specic standards and procurement rules. If the Indian Government was to move at a faster pace to resolve some of thaws issues, FDI and 2 way trade should certainly accelerate. Both sides would prot from a renewed effort to nd an agreement on investment protection and free trade rules, giving investors and businesses the stable regulatory framework and legal certainty which is now needed more than ever. At the government level, the stalling of economic activity this year makes it abundantly clear that a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement and as it is hoped to witness an early harvest on this front which should result in both the economies returning to the path of rapid recovery, followed by strong growth. The Indian government's unprecedented focus on scaling up infrastructure capabilities, growing thrust on industrialization and indigenization, creating employment through R&D and technological advancements hold out tremendous potential for European businesses at large. In fact, interest has already been evinced by EU businesses in the government's agship programmes - Make in India, Skill India & Digital India. This is encouraging and positions India as one of the next large manufacturing hubs for European businesses. A successful negotiation of the Bilateral Trade & Investment Agreement (BTIA) or a full blown Free Trade Agreement would go a long way in achieving this objective. At the ground level, there has been a paradigm shift in approach towards governance as India has unveiled multiple reforms aimed towards improving the business and investment climate in the country.
Mr. Raman Sidhu, as CEO ,European Federation in India remains optimistic on the whole issue of a more robust EUIndia Trade & Investment relationship.
Req's separate subscription/login for HBO Max,
SAY HELLO TO
Watch your favorite entertainment in one place. Plus,
CHOICE ™ PACKAGE
included for a year.
64
$
99 MO.
For 12 mos. plus taxes & Regional Sports Fee.
• Stream on your phone, tablet and TV - anytime, anywhere.
Available only in the U.S. (excl. Puerto Rico & U.S.V.I.). Req’s compatible device & data connection. Limited to 3 concurrent streams.
• Access HBO Max, Netflix and more on Google Play.
Req's separate subscription/login for HBO Max, Netflix. Google login required. Google is a trademark of Google LLC.
HBO Max Offer: Access HBO Max only through HBO Max app or hbomax.com. HBO Max also includes HBO channels and HBO On Demand on AT&T TV. Data rates may apply for app download/usage. AT&T TV: *$19.95 ACTIVATION, EARLY TERMINATION FEE ($15/MO.) FOR TV FOR EACH MONTH REMAINING ON AGMT., EQUIPMENT NON-RETURN & ADD’L FEES APPLY. Price incl. CHOICE AT&T TV Pkg. 1 AT&T TV device included for well-qualified customers; otherwise $120. New residential customers only, excluding DIRECTV and U-verse TV customers. Restr’s apply.
Get AT&T TV Today!
1-877-351-8753 AT&T TV: AT&T TV requires high speed internet. Recommend minimum 24 Mbps for optimal viewing (min 8 Mbps per stream). Limit 3 concurrent AT&T streams. CHOICE: Ends 1/16/21. 1st & 2nd year Pricing: $64.99 for first 12 mos. only. After 12 mos. or loss of eligibility, then prevailing rate applies $110/mo. for CHOICE Pkg, unless cancelled or changed prior to end of the promo period. Includes: CHOICE Pkg. Req’s 1 AT&T TV device, included for well qualified customers; otherwise $120. Add’l devices avail for $120 each or on installment; non-qualified customers must purchase additional devices up front. Additional Fees & Taxes: Price excludes Regional Sports Fee of up to $8.49/mo. (which is extra & applies to CHOICE and higher Pkgs), and certain other add’l fees & charges. AT&T TV: Subject to AT&T TV terms and conditions. Avail. in the U.S. only (excludes Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands). AT&T TV service will continue monthly at the prevailing rate charged to your payment method on file, unless you cancel, subject to any early termination fees. If you cancel in the first 14 days of order, you must return the included AT&T TV device within 14 days of order to avoid $120 non-return fee. Additional devices purchased on installment agreement subject to additional terms and conditions. See cancellation policy at att.com/help/cancellation-policy-att-tv.html for more details. Once you’ve canceled, you can access AT&T TV through the remaining monthly period. No refunds or credits for any partial-month periods or unwatched content. Compatible device req’d. Residential customers only. Pricing, channels, features, and terms subject to change & may be modified or discontinued at any time without notice. Some offers may not be available through all channels and in select areas. Regional Sports & Local Channels: Not available in select areas. Channels vary by package & billing region. Device may need to be in billing region in order to view. GENERAL: Limit 3 concurrent streams per account. Programming subject to blackout restrictions. Taxes may apply. See your Order Confirmation email and att.com/legal/att-tv.html for more details. HBO Max: Access HBO Max through HBO Max app or hbomax.com with your AT&T log-in credentials. Compatible device or browser required. Use of HBO Max is subject to its own terms and conditions, see hbomax.com/terms-of-use for details. Programming and content subj. to change. Upon cancellation of your video service you may lose access to HBO Max. Limits: Access to one HBO Max account per AT&T account holder. May not be stackable w/other offers, credits or discounts. To learn more, visit att.com/hbomax. HBO Max is only accessible in the U.S. and certain U.S. territories where a high-speed broadband connection is available. Minimum 3G connection is requiredfor viewing on mobile devices. HBO Max is used under license. Offers may not be combined with other promotional offers on the same services and may be modified or discontinued at any time without notice. Other conditions apply to all offers. ©2020 AT&T Intellectual Property. AT&T and the Globe logo are registered trademarks and service marks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marksare the property of their respective owners.
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 27
THE WORLD'S FIRST VIRTUAL ART GALLERY
LAUNCHED BY VOICE OF SPECIAL ABLED PEOPLE(VOSAP) THE THEME OF DISABILITY - " VOSAP ART GALLERY " INAUGURATED BY INDIA'S CABINET MINISTER DR THAWAR CHAND GEHLOT MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE The Voice of Special Abled People (VOSAP) globally launched the World’s First Virtual Art Gallery on 5TH December 2020 and was inaugurated by Dr T. C. Gehlot, Union Minister, Ministry of Social Justice, Government of India. The initiative by the VOSAP received very high accolades from Chairman, Executive Board, WHO and Hon’ble Prime Minister of India for using the technology and art to achieve inclusion of Specially Abled People.
This unique initiative is to spread awareness on skills, talent of specially-abled people by virtue of powerful tools of visual art and using technology is now taken to the next level with launch of virtual VOSAP Art Gallery of selected 250 artwork of 250 artists. This digital platform can now reach to millions of people around the world, thus not only giving global exposure to Artists, wings to their aspirations but also helping redene disability with vivid paintings, drawings beautifully portraying aspirations, issues, talents, solutions, emotions of specially abled people. Voice of SAP is a global advocacy non- prot organization, promoting Empowerment of Specially Abled People (SAP). The initiative “VOSAP Art from Heart” is aimed at spreading awareness, bring out emotions, beautiful expressions of creative mind, giving powerful message as an art work to promote Inclusion. Shri,Pranav Desai is the Founder of Voice of SAP who inspires thousands of Abled and Disabled around the world. “Inclusion of 1 BN+ specially abled people is a 21st-century opportunity in front of the world and such initiatives are aimed to touch hearts of millions of people so that there is “True Access” in the society, beyond physical accessibility,” The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi was the Chief Guest and Chairman, Exec Board of WHO, Dr Harsh Vardhan who sent congratulatory messages to winners of VOSAP Art from Heart. 28 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
MR.PRANAV DESAI ,FOUNDER VOSAP WITH HON’BLE PRIME MINISTER SHRI NARENDRA MODI – MESSAGE TO VOSAPIANS
All the nalists in each category of the contest were congratulated for their creativity, compassion and Empathy to give expression for theme of DISABILITY. They are trendsetters, leaders for thousands of future artists to follow them to embrace creativity and accept challenge to do something new! HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 29
Participants worked on the theme –Disability and they portrayed on emotions, anxiety, aspirations and dreams of a Specially Abled Person. It could also be related to real life challenges faced in the society by Visually impaired, Mobility impaired, Hearing impaired or Learning disability of Specially Abled People (SAP). This International Art contest will now help participants and families to think deeply about 15% of global population, considered Persons with Disabilities. During COVID19 pandemic, while stress levels are high, thinking of SAP may provide opportunity to understand lesser known aspects of the lives of Persons with Disabilities and get inspired to give profound, inspiring message for their inclusion in society with best of artistic talent. The Judges for professional artist category were of International repute like Amanda Lynn, Charan Sharma, Dr Debashish Banerji, who are great inspiration for many artists ! They also had very reputed artists as Judges on the panel for aspiring artists ,namely Dr Kamakar Datta, Bhavin Kothari from the National Institute of Design. Total panel of 9 Judges from the US, Indian and UK provided their ratings. Panel of Judges included Gloria Muriel, Zahir Shaikh, Bakulesh Joshi and Vaidehi Parekh ,the Art Director, San Jose. The Advisers included Dolly Parikh, Amanda Lynn and Chinar Desai. The award ceremony and volunteers had come forward and described more about disability with beautiful, thought provoking artwork on DISABILITY and there were 50 winners from 24 countries.“Unconditional” from Ms Amanda Lynn, “Determination” – Dr Kamakar Datta ,“The Ride” from Adarsh Bajji.
30 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
The initiative VOSAP Art from Heart concluded on December 5 2020 with the Annual Award and Gala Ceremony, marking the celebration of the World Disability Day. On the ceremony launched world’s 1st virtual art gallery of 250 artists on the theme of disability with the aim of colouring the world with inclusion of specially-abled people through the creative expression of artwork. It saw participation from more than 4,200 artists from 53 countries. This mass movement inspired 74%+ youth below age 30, 15% Specially Abled Artist while 85% of participants with no disability! And, the initiative witnessed 2,200+ artists from 45+ countries giving voice to the Disability Sector along with VOSAP. An international panel of eight Judges identied 50 winners from 24 countries using online platform of VOSAP.
Jessica Cox ,the First Armless Person in the World to Have Obtained a Pilot’s License and her Black Belt was Guest Speaker and who has been a great motivational speaker and travelled to 27 countries, inspiring millions of people.
The volunteers have played an immense role in the success of this ceremony. In spite of the tough times during COVID-19, the volunteers stepped up, in fact, even more so than before. With their reafrmed resolve and commitment to create a better society, they put in the hard work which made it possible for VOSAP to emerge as an NGO that has made a huge impact, even in these tough times with start of this transformative initiative of VOSAP Art from Heart. The volunteers have played an immense role in the success of this ceremony. In spite of the tough times during COVID-19, the volunteers stepped up, in fact, even more so than before. With their reafrmed resolve and commitment to create a better society, they put in the hard work which made it possible for VOSAP to emerge as an NGO that has made a huge impact, even in these tough times with start of this transformative initiative of VOSAP Art from Heart. The real heroes are the artists who have participated in the initiative and brought in their voice to express the challenges, aspirations and dreams of a Specially-Abled Person. They’ve broken their comfort zone and chosen to create art on a difcult topic like “DISABILITY”, hence, becoming a part of the change themselves, and understanding the lesser known aspects of lives of People with Disabilities to beautifully portray their emotions through art.
Master Sparsh Shah who is VOSAP youth ambassador, motivational speaker, singer, song writer hosted the VOSAP Annual Gala on 05 December 2020 which included photo competition , entertainment and soulful singing. Art is to be used as a tool to mobilise artists to become change makers of tomorrow !
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 31
50TH ANNIVERSARY OF 1971 INDIA-PAKISTAN WAR INDIA CELEBRATES DECEMBER 16 , 2020 AS “ VIJAY DIWAS” TO COMMEMORATE ITS VICTORY OVER PAKISTAN DURING THE 1971 WAR LEADING TO THE CREATION OF BANGLADESH.
India on December 16,2020, celebrated the 50th anniversary of the 1971 war with Pakistan, also known as the Bangladesh Liberation War. Fought under the leadership of then-Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Sam Manekshaw, the war ended in less than two weeks with a decisive victory for India, and resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, which was then known as East Pakistan. The 13-day military conict is one of the shortest wars in history. It ended with a decisive win for India and led to the creation of Bangladesh.
The war came to an end in less than two weeks on December 16, 1971, with the Eastern Command Chief of the Indian Army, Lt Gen JS Aurora, making the Eastern Command Chief of the Pakistan Army, Lt Gen AAK Niazi, sign the instrument of surrender. As a result of the surrender, around 93,000 Pakistani troops were taken as prisoners of war (PoW) by India. The 13-day duration of the war also makes it one of the shortest wars in history. East Pakistan became Bangladesh, with Awami League leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, becoming its rst President in January 1972, as well as its second Prime Minister in 1974. Mujib, who was assassinated in 1975, is the father of current Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The war is also known for the Indian Navy’s daring assault, called Operation Trident, on Pakistan’s nancial hub of Karachi, which was also the headquarters of the Pakistan Navy. To commemorate this operation, India observes December 4 as Navy Day. The 1971 war is also known for the battle of Longewala, in Rajasthan, in which outnumbered Indian troops fought off advancing Pakistani adversaries and the battle was led by Major KS Chandpuri, who led Indian troops. Throughout the conict, the Indian forces were assisted by the Mukti Bahini, a Bengali guerrilla resistance movement, which was ghting the Pakistani forces.
PM MODI PAYS TRIBUTE AT NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL ON VIJAY DIWAS INDIA CELEBRATES DECEMBER 16 AS VIJAY DIWAS TO COMMEMORATE ITS VICTORY OVER PAKISTAN DURING THE 1971 WAR THAT LED TO THE CREATION OF BANGLADESH. The conict took place in the backdrop of tensions between Pakistan , then known as West Pakistan and the Bengali majority in East Pakistan, which was closer to India, then it was to Pakistan. On 25 March 1971, the Pakistan Army, led by Lieutenant General Tikka Khan, who later went on to become Pakistan’s rst COAS, launched Operation Searchlight to quell the rebellion in East Pakistan . Massive human rights violations were reportedly perpetrated by the Pakistan Army during this operation. The hostilities between India and Pakistan formally began on December 3, 1971, when the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), launched pre-emptive air strikes on 11 Indian airelds. Addressing the nation the same evening, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi called the air strikes “declaration of war against India.” While the Indian Air Force (IAF) responded with initial retaliatory strikes the same night, Prime Minister Gandhi ordered a “full-scale” invasion of Pakistan. Thus ofcially commenced the Indo-Pakistani war of 1971.
32 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute at the National War Memorial in New Delhi on the 50th anniversary of the 1971 that made Bangladesh an independent country. The day is celebrated as ‘Vijay Diwas’. The Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh and Home Minister, Amit Shah also extended their wishes to countrymen on the occasion of the Vijay Diwas. The Ministers saluted the bravery and courage of the Indian Army
PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI AT THE NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL IN NEW DELHI
PM Modi along with several ofcials from the Defence Ministry paid tributes at the National War Memorial in New Delhi and kickstarted the 50th anniversary celebrations of the event.
As a symbol of victory, also known as ‘Swarnim Vijay Mashaal’ was also lit by the Prime Minister. There were four such ‘ Mashaals’ or torches which will be carried to various parts of the country, including to the villages of Param Vir Chakra and MahaVir Chakra Awardees of 1971 War.
‘SURRENDER OR BE WIPED OUT’: FIELD MARSHAL MANEKSHAW’S WARNING TO PAK ARMY DURING 1971 WAR The Indian Armed Forces had in December 1971 secured a historic victory over Pakistan Army, which led to the creation of Bangladesh and also resulted in the largest military Surrender after the World War–II. India is celebrating the ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’ on the occasion of India’s victory over Pakistan in 1971 war, that made Bangladesh an independent country.
PICTURE TAKEN IN DECEMBER 1971 OF AN INDIAN TANK DURING THE INDO-PAKISTANI WAR OF 1971
The photo was shared with the caption, “’You surrender or We wipe you out’ was the message given by Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw to Pakistan on 13th December 1971.” The Field Marshal lived his words as the world will see unprecedented surrender of more than 93000 Pakistani soldiers.
The entire year is being celebrated as ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’ to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the 1971 IndiaPakistan war. Various commemorative events will be conducted pan-India wherein war Veterans and ‘ Veer Naris’ or brave women will be felicitated.
THE ADDITIONAL DIRECTORATE GENERAL OF PUBLIC INFORMATION (ADGPI) OF THE INDIAN ARMY - A PICTURE OF FIELD MARSHAL SAM MANEKSHAW STRATEGISING WITH FELLOW ARMY OFFICERS AMID THE 1971 WAR
The Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh on the occasion of Vijay Diwas, saluted the valour and bravery of the Indian Army. He remembered the bravery of the soldiers who wrote a new saga of bravery in the 1971 war. Their sacrice is a source of inspiration for all Indians and said that the Nation will always revere them. The Home Minister said that the Indian Army made a historic change on the world map on this day.
The 1971 war was fought between the Pakistan Army and the allied forces of Bangladesh’s Muktibahini and the Indian Army led by Field General Sam Manekshaw. The Pakistan government chose not to recognize the Awami League’s win in the 1970 elections following which Awami League leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman called for a nationwide strike. Pakistan, fearing that East Pakistan will continue to demand more autonomy arrested Rehman and imprisoned him in Lahore on charges of sedition.
The Home Minister also quoted that on this day in 1971, the Indian Army, with its indomitable courage and valour, made a historic change on the world map, protecting the universal values of human freedom. This is marked with golden letters in history and will continue to make every Indian proud and wishing the nation as Happy Vijay Diwas.
By December 14, it was clear that Pakistan’s forces were depleted and Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw asked Niazi, Commander of Pakistani forces, to unconditionally surrender in front of the Indian Army. Ninety three thousand Pakistani troops surrendered to the Indian Army on this day in 1971 making it the biggest surrender since World War II.
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 33
34 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 35
JACQUELINE PIÑOL The multilingual Latinx actress talks TV, film, and videogames By Alex A. Kecskes
Hailing from Queens, New York, multilingual Latinx actress and video game veteran, Jacqueline Piñol is known for her role as robbery-homicide detective Julie Espinosa on the Emmy-nominated series Bosch. Piñol moved to Los Angeles at a young age and was soon busy doing commercials while attending Beverly Hills High School. She landed her first television role as Ricky Martin’s younger sister on General Hospital. After attending Loyola Marymount University, she secured major recurring roles in television. These include Dr. Sofia Amaral in the sci-fi series Quantum Break, Rikki Sandoval in crime drama CSI:NY, Olivia Solano in the Latino-family drama Resurrection Blvd., and as officer Delilah Sandoval in the family-police drama Lincoln Heights. In addition to her on-camera work, Piñol has excelled as a voiceover actress in feature films such as Bride Wars and some of the most popular video games including Transformers: The Game, Uncharted 3, and Quantum Break. Bordertown fans know her as the voice of Pepito Gonzalez. And anyone who’s ever played Spider-Man: Miles Morales will recognize her voice as Rio Morales. 36 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
Thank you for taking the time for this interview. What were some of the challenges you faced when you first started your acting career? Jacqueline Piñol: I grew up in LA and I was in high school and early college when I started. I wasn’t so much star-struck; it was more, ‘I need to do my job and look for opportunities.’ Back then, there weren’t that many roles for Latin Americans and I was trying to be accepted as a Latina actor. You’re judged based on your look and that’s something we have to accept as actors. Our appearance has a lot to do with what we portray, how we portray them, and when. Ethnicity was not part of the roles I played. They were just generic. And there was a part of me that felt I couldn’t be authentic. So that was a challenge I had to accept as a young girl. Video games are becoming increasingly realistic. Can you go into why you like doing voice-overs in games like Spider-Man? Piñol: I started doing voice-overs a few years ago when video games turned to motion capture. My agents began sending me scripts for on-camera roles, not just voice-overs. I’d audition as I would for a TV on-camera role, even though they just wanted to hear my voice and get a sense of me as a character. By then, I was already a trained actor on camera.
Having auditioned for a variety of on-camera roles, it was second nature to me and I just went for it. Lately, the most realistic and ‘in-present’ auditions I’ve had were for motion capture roles. I remember leaving the room, thinking, I rocked this. And I felt good. I still have the same voice-over agents I started with when I was in high school. I believe loyalty is important and I know, in this industry, you have to change. But I stuck with them because they know me and they’ve seen me grow and evolve. It’s the same with my manager and theatrical agent; I’ve been with them for a while as well. You played a most convincing robbery-homicide detective on the series Bosch. What did you draw from to prepare for that role? Piñol: I was so grateful for that role because they embraced me as a Latina cop. I originally auditioned as a guest star. I was three-months pregnant at the time. So I thought, okay, I’m just going to suck in my belly for this one. I did let them know about my condition and they said no worries, we want to see you anyway. But it was one of those mental things where I thought, well, they’re not going to hire me because I’m pregnant so I’m just going to give it my all. It was a nice opportunity to audition for people who produced shows like Mad Men. But a week later, I got a call and they wanted me. So I got the guest star role and that turned into multiple episodes throughout four seasons. We had real robbery-homicide detectives on set who helped us with demeanor issues and investigative procedures. So I learned a lot about the job and have a lot more respect for the people who dedicate their lives to doing this job. You also played a uniformed cop in the series Lincoln Heights. What was that like? Piñol: I worked with Russel Hornsby, an amazing actor. We played partners and we were shooting in Lincoln Heights. I remember we pulled over and we went through this whole procedure about how you handcuff somebody. It involved a lot of rehearsals. One day, we’d completed a shoot and I needed to cross Adams Boulevard to get to a catering truck. Well, I was still uniform and I put my hand out and all the cars stopped, thinking I was a real cop (laughs). How are you different from detective Julie Espinosa and how are you like her? Piñol: I don’t think I could do a job like hers. I would be too emotionally affected and involved in the day-to-day aspect of the job. With Julie, you just have to put the pants on and do your business. The cases she deals with involve families and murder and women getting hurt. If I had to face that, I would just be a wreck when I got home. Quantum Break combines high drama with high tech. How did you prepare for the demanding role of Dr. Sofia Amaral? Piñol: That was quite an undertaking, especially since we did a live action series that was later embedded in a video game. We were doing both motion capture and voice-over. The live-action was shot in Italy and the video game was shot in Finland. What was most difficult was maintaining continuity because you’re shooting months apart and out of order. So I kept journals as Doctor Amaral because what we were doing spanned two years. I needed to remind myself what I was doing in those early scenes and what frame of mind I was in. I needed to bring my A-game to each shoot and the journals gave me a sense of organization I felt a scientist would have. It was challenging because it was intense with lots of chaos. It really stretched me.
And doing the motion capture work was harder because we did a lot of stunts. You’ve been in a few short films, which usually pack a lot of emotion into a small space. Which short film are you most proud of ? Piñol: A short called Swivel Shot. It’s really intense with a lot going on in a very short time. It’s a whole journey with Rick Ravanello, a wonderful actor who plays my partner. We’re secret lovers and uniformed cops who face these gangsters. It pushed me to new limits with its slight nudity. It felt like I was shooting a feature. The emotional arc of my character was very powerful. What have you learned about the entertainment business that surprised you? Piñol: I grew up in LA and I don’t want to be jaded or cynical but you have to constantly remind yourself to be present and in the moment. I knew at the age of 12 that I wanted to act. Once I met famous stars or directors—I sometimes didn’t know who they were—I was surprised to learn they’re not like you see in the magazines with all the glitz and glamor. It was refreshing to see them at work and realize that they’re just like me. They’re real people with real concerns, difficulties, and obstacles. They’re on their cellphones trying to figure out their schedules. So until then, I had this idea they were perfect and that I had to be perfect like them. What advice would you give a young Latina eager to make it as an actor? Piñol: Number one, study your craft. That will up your game. So when opportunity knocks, you’re ready. Number two would be don’t give up. Because if you really want it, you have to stay in line. I’ve seen it happen with stuntwomen and gaffers who eventually made it. And it’s exciting to see that happen with Latina producers and directors.
Many actors have a lovehate relationship with auditions. Your thoughts?
Piñol: In this interesting Covid time, we have to do everything from home and that means auditions on tape. First, I was like, oh no. But now I’m loving it. Once I get my tape down with lighting and sound, I just submit the best tape I’m comfortable with. It beats going into a room and doing it once or twice and saying did I do a good job?
Designer: Evetta Petty, Harlem’s Heaven Hats at NYFW Photo: Manonce
Harlem’s Heaven Hats designed by Evetta Petty
Several movies and magazines such as Vogue, L’Officiel Paris, Essence, Schon, Marie Claire, Elle, Glamour, Grazia, Mujer Unica, The NY Times, Harper’s Bazaar published Harlem’s Heaven Hats designed by Evetta Petty. Her hats been also covered by many news networks like CNN, NBC, CBS, ARD, NHK, ABC, PIX11, FOX. No any season can be passed without hats. Today amazing talented hats designer Evetta Petty will share her fashion advices especially for Hollywood Magazine readers. Evetta, fashion is a passion? Each season is exciting and preparing for fashion shows is my passion. I am so very happy doing what I do and I hope to continue to design exciting hats for many more years to come. How long you been a designer? I graduated from New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology with a degree in Textiles and Fashion Marketing. 38 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
For over 30 years, I’ve designed hats in my uptown New York studio, Harlem’s Heaven Hat Shop. My hats have captured worldwide attention and have been worn to the Kentucky Derby and Royal Ascot in England. I am proud to have been chosen as an emerging entrepreneur by the William Jefferson Clinton Foundation. I design an extensive line of hats and accessories with a focus on unconventional materials, vintage looks, and old Hollywood glamour. This is impressive. Tell us more about your fashion journey. My travels around the world to cities like Tokyo, Rome, Hong Kong, and New Delhi have introduced me to unusual textiles that give my hats a more global appeal. My hats have been worn by many celebrities such as Patti LaBelle, Marcus Samuelsson, and Star Jones. Also hats have been featured on television shows like Power, Cake Boss, Botched, The Bold Type, Married to Medicine, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt on Netflix, and Anderson Cooper Live.
New collection of Harlem’s Heaven Hats Designer: Evetta Petty, Harlem’s Heaven Hats Photo: Tahir Yamin Retoucher: Elena Sidak Muah: Mariia Lavreniuk
I have created hats for several movies, media outlets, and magazine editorials for publications such as Vogue, L’Officiel Paris, Essence, Schon, Marie Claire, Elle, Glamour, Grazia, Mujer Unica, The NY Times, and the cover of Harper’s Bazaar. It has been an amazing journey so far to have my hats gain loyal customers from all over the world from Japan to Australia. I’ve had amazing editorials in Serbia, Bulgaria, and Russia. Over the years, I’ve been covered by many news networks like CNN, NBC, CBS, ARD, NHK, ABC, PIX11, and FOX. What is highlight of your career? The highlight of my career so far is having my hats in a special exhibition of couture hats at the world famous, iconic, Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, as well as in “The Global Africa Project” at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York. I approach millinery as wearable HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 39
art and each collection as an artistic expression. This is manifested by my use of unusual, and unconventional materials. I will make a hat out of almost anything from purses to rugs. Who is the most stylish celebrity at your opinion? The one who is wearing hats! It is great to see the popularity of hat wearing among celebrities, actors and athletes. Singers like Erykah Badu, Pharrel, Bruno Mars, Janelle Monae and Neo are well known for wearing hats as a part of their look. Carmello Anthony stands out as an athlete that is an avid hat wearer. The most eclectic and stylish hat wearing celebrity is definitely Erykah Badu. Her style and choice of avant-garde hats is magnificent. Each of your hat is so unique and beautiful! At what fashion weeks we can see your hats shows? I’ve shown my collection at numerous fashion shows and Couture Fashion Week in New York and also special collaborations in Paris, France and Torino, Italy. Preparing for a fashion show is exhilarating from casting models to walking the runway. I am involved in every step of the process. It is truly my passion. What are your goals? My immediate goal is to design and produce headwear for more Hollywood films, like my idol, costume designer, Ruth Carter whose awesome costumes for the movie “Black Panther” were not only stunning but also transformational. What is new in fashion? It is the mask. My latest collection includes couture face masks for protection as well as making a fashion statement. I am using the same luxurious, globally sourced, fabric that I use for hats and adding exciting embellishments both vintage and new to make my masks special, just like my hats. This new category of functional elegance is rapidly becoming a very important fashion expression in this day and time. What is the most stylish hat at 2021? My current hat collection is mostly wide brims with floral accents. The strongest color accents are hot pink and turquoise. Fashionistas will be wearing extra wide brims for sun protection as well as style. A wide brimmed elaborate picture hat will be elegant fashion statement. As a necessary accessory and an attractive bonus, matching masks are coordinated with hats. I have designed a special collection of super wide brimmed hats made out of grosgrain ribbon in amazing vibrant colors. These hats can be worn all year round. I make a lot of wool cloche hats for winter wear. This is a very retro 1940’s style and is elegant and timeless. I use wool and winter fabrics in bright jewel tone colors with elaborate trimming to update the look. It is new Hollywood glamour. More you can discover at my website: www.harlemsheaven.com 40 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
What is your favorite hat? Fascinators are always an important element in a summer or winter hat wardrobe for a lighthearted whimsical headwear statement. My fascinators are handmade works of wearable art. I specialize in elaborate small cocktail hats. These fascinator mini hats are embellished with beads, sequins, lace, ribbon, feathers, and rhinestones. These little hats are the finishing touch to a dressy ensemble for special events and evening wear. They have also become a staple in outfits for attending Horse races and Polo matches. It is great to see the fascinator gain popularity in current fashion, because it not exactly a new style. In many old Hollywood movies in the 1920’s and 1930’s you will see these fabulous mini hats. My personal favorite hat to wear is a fascinator. How many hats do you have in your own wardrobe? I personally own over 300 hats and most of my hat enthusiast customers own at least 200 hats each. There are over one thousand hats in my current inventory and I continuously produce new styles. Do you follow trends in the fashion? I am not a follower of trends, but I enjoy adding a new twist to a vintage look. I mix a little bit of the old with a little bit of the new and keep the glamour as an essential element of my designs. What is the craziest thing you would like to do in Hollywood? Hollywood culture, and films, both old and new are a huge influence on my design esthetic. The most fun thing that I would like to do in Hollywood is to do a cameo as myself designing hats in a movie. My film work so far has captured my interest and empowered me to do more. There is no greater satisfaction than seeing your hats worn up on the big screen.
New collection of Harlem’s Heaven Hats Designer: Evetta Petty, Harlem’s Heaven Hats Photo: Tahir Yamin Retoucher: Elena Sidak Muah: Mariia Lavreniuk
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 41
FEATURES FROM
Kevin A. Williams perfecting his latest work, “Queen.”
April Walker 42 • HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY
At a young age, April Walker showed signs of an entrepreneurial spirit. When April was a teenager she taught gymnastics and sold T-shirts to make a little change for herself. But it wasn’t until she set foot in Dapper Dan’s boutique custom shop that her entrepreneurial spirit translated into fashion. At the age of 21, Walker created her own custom tailor shop. She named the shop Fashion In Effect. Early customers included influential hip hop duo Audio Two (Milk & Giz) and Grammy-winning, reggae singer Shaggy. Fashion In Effect laid the groundwork for her brand, Walker Wear. Artists and entertainers of the era—Tupac, Notorious BIG, and Queen Latifah—were some of the early supporters of April and her brand. April was in a zone. Hip hop culture was gaining national attention around the same time Walker Wear was gaining momentum. Hip hop was no longer seen as a fad. A quick search through the blogging platform, Tumblr shows the impact April’s brand had and continues to have on pop culture. In the blog, you will find a GIF of Treach from Naughty by Nature rocking a Walker Wear jacket on Yo! MTV Raps. If you go deeper, you’ll find a scan of Run DMC sporting Walker Wear hats and jackets on the cover of L’Affiche in 1993. The name ‘Walker Wear’ pays homage to WilliWear, the fashion label of the late, great fashion designer Willie Smith. Just like Willie, April set out to create clothes for the common people. Today, the fashion world looks to hip hop for inspiration. But without April Walker—who was a major pioneer in urban wear—this genre would not exist. It doesn’t matter what didn’t exist before you. What matters is that you use your time on earth to carve out a path that is right for you today.
Photo by Kelvin Bullock
“Negative thoughts can kill dreams, while positive thoughts will ignite your tomorrows. What you place in your mind will become your reality. The most important story you’ll ever tell is your own. What kind of story are you telling yourself ? Make sure it’s a good one because you are listening.” –April Walker
HOLLYWOOD MONTHLY • 43
Columbia Shuswap Film Commission
FilmColumbiaShuswap.com • film@csfilm.ca • 250-833-5947
